Search Results

Maa Telugu Thali Group This article brings together voices from our Andhra–Telangana community, who came together during the Republic Day celebrations to represent their culture. What began as a simple act of participation gradually grew into a shared journey—shaped by memories, conversations, and collective effort. Told largely in the participants’ own words, the piece reflects not just what unfolded on stage, but the people and moments behind it. Click Here For Complete Story It Began Quietly A message. A registration. No expectations. It began the way many things do—quietly. In the first week of January, a message appeared in the society group about Republic Day celebrations. Residents were invited to represent their respective states. For Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, it sounded straightforward. A walk on stage. Traditional attire. A placard. Nothing more. Shruti remembers seeing the message and thinking,  “Why not participate and sing a patriotic song?”  She even reached out to Asha to see if they could do something together. But once the idea of it being a group activity came up, it slipped away. Life moved on. Asha read the registration message and ignored it. Later, she admitted it openly. There was no strong reason—just the usual mix of routine and priorities. Himabindu registered with clarity and simplicity.  “I thought it would just be a walk,”  she said.  “Traditional clothes, holding a placard.”  No performance. No rehearsal. Mid-January, the message surfaced again. Sreelatha reached out, asking for volunteers to represent the states. This time, Shruti said yes, assuming it wouldn’t take much time. Others joined with the same understanding. At that point, none of us imagined what was coming. What Sarees Should We Wear? The first conversations were practical. “What sarees should we wear?”  Shruti asked. That question led to an unexpected pause. “Wait… is Kanchi pattu even part of Telugu heritage?”  someone asked. Shruti later laughed about that moment.  “We wear so many sarees, but we didn’t really know the history of each weave,”  she said. What started as a clothing discussion turned into discovery. Each fabric carried a story. Each pattern meant something. Asha noticed the shift early. As Bindu and Chaitanya started sharing ideas, she realised this could not stay a simple walk.  “There is so much to showcase and talk about,”  she said. Ideas came rapidly. “Should we show a wedding?” “What about a pooja?” “Temples have to be there.” “Food is culture.” “Dance?” “Tollywood songs will work.” Shruti recalls how one thought triggered another.  “It just kept expanding,”  she said. Then Chaitanya added a different layer. She asked if the act could also show what Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have contributed to science and technology—ISRO, Sriharikota, satellite launches, Hyderabad as a tech hub. That question changed the direction. Remembering the Village Where memories of home shaped the heart of the story When the team met again, the focus shifted. “What should the drama actually show?” For Himabindu, the answer came naturally. “When I closed my eyes, I went back to my childhood village,”  she shared. Not cities. Not roads. Just memories. Early mornings. Quiet nights. Sitting outside with grandparents. Listening to stories as the breeze passed. She spoke about her mother drawing water from the well, sprinkling it in front of the house, and making rangoli on the wet earth. She remembered festivals—the smell of food, children waiting in the kitchen, pattu langas, hair being braided, flowers tucked in before walking to the temple. “These weren’t big events,”  she said.  “This was just life.” That was when she said it clearly:  “Culture is the way we live.” There were doubts. “How will we show all this?” “Will people understand?” Himabindu explained that narration could guide the audience—that scenes could be explained as they unfolded. Slowly, the hesitation eased. Village life became the foundation. Tradition, Progress, and a Rocket Launch Finding a narrative that held both roots and growth Structure came next. Chaitanya took responsibility for shaping the script.  “We need a flow,”  she said.  “Otherwise it will feel scattered.”  She worked on transitions—from science to roots, from tradition to celebration. Then Himabindu suggested something symbolic.  “Why don’t we start with a rocket launch and a countdown?”  she asked. The idea clicked instantly. Asha proposed adding a fashion show.  “Our attire deserves its own moment,”  she said. She was particularly keen on this segment. Time became a concern.  “We have so much to say, but very little time,”  Asha noted. The script went through multiple edits—shortened, refined, aligned. Vijaya took charge of music and coordination.  “The tracks have to sync with the script,”  she said.  “Pauses, expressions—everything matters.”  She also handled registrations and props, quietly keeping things together. Roles settled without announcement. Many Roles, One Flow When individuals stepped in and a team took shape Rehearsals tested everyone. “This was supposed to be just a walk,”  Shruti admitted at one point. Office work didn’t pause. Practice didn’t stop. “Shoulder to shoulder.” “The V shape isn’t right.” “Again.” Bindu kept guiding calmly.  “It’s okay,”  she repeated.  “We’ll do it again.” Asha juggled anchoring and sequencing.  “I have to remember everything in order,”  she said more than once. Vijaya paused tracks frequently.  “The beat needs to align here.” Between corrections, laughter crept in. Someone missed a step. Someone turned too early. “From the top,”  became a shared joke. Somewhere along the way, it stopped feeling forced. For Four and a Half Minutes on Stage Late evenings, missed steps, and learning together On the day of the performance, the act opened with the rocket launch. The countdown drew applause. The village scene followed. Harinath stepped in as the farmer—waking up, heading to the fields.  “I had to gel with a group of all women and still find my place,”   he said later.  “That’s unity in diversity.” The devotional  Maa Telugu Talli   moment brought stillness. Then came the folk dances— Chittu Chitturi  and  Gobbi Yallo .  “Once the music started, it flowed,”  Shruti said. The fashion show stood out. Walking the ramp in different sarees felt powerful.  “Those weren’t just clothes,”  Shruti reflected.  “They were stories.” The act ended with the Tiranga and a Telugu film-style swag gesture.  “It fit our mood,”  Harinath said. Four minutes and thirty seconds. And it was over. What Stayed With Us After the music stopped Afterward, what stayed mattered more. “Dancing to folk songs became more than rehearsals,”  Shruti said.  “Every rhythmic step felt like a conversation with my roots.” Himabindu felt she had rediscovered something familiar.  “Culture lives within us,”  she reflected. Asha smiled about having ignored the first message.  “There’s still so much we haven’t shown,”  she said.  “We’ll do more.” For Harinath, inclusion mattered most.  “I’m grateful they thought of me,”  he said. Somewhere between rehearsals and performance, the lines blurred. Neighbours became a team. A team became friends. By the end, it didn’t feel like Andhra or Telangana standing apart. It simply felt like  us . Beyond the performance, this story is about connection. Through shared rehearsals and responsibility, individuals came together as a team, discovering that culture lives as much in everyday interactions as it does on stage. It is in these quiet, collective moments that a community truly comes alive.

Samiksha  Verma 8th grade. A mirror reveals more than one reflection—innocence and shadow, truth and disguise—inviting us to question which face we show, which we hide, and which quietly defines who we are. A mirror held, a story told, Of faces seen, both new and old. They say we're true, just one to view, But whispers hint, there might be two. A simple soul, an open book, A single face, a gentle look. No hidden depths, no mask to wear, Just honesty, beyond compare. Is it a gift, this single view? Or something missed, a world untrue? Then shadows dance, a change appears, A second smile, that hides the tears. A friendly word, a secret kept, A promise made, then softly wept. This double side, a puzzling game, Is fear it breeds, a burning flame? Which is the scarier, tell me true, The one you see, or hiding through? One plain and clear, the other deep, Which secrets do they safely keep? Perhaps the answer softly lies, In watching close with knowing eyes. To see the light, and feel the shade, And understand the roles we've played. For every face, a story sleeps, And gentle hearts, the answer reaps.                                 - Samiksha Verma.

Dr. Devyani Rozario Website “Be like salt” – It is a deceptively simple command, yet it carries a profound weight . In our modern, attention-driven world, where success is often measured by volume, visibility, and viral reach, this ancient metaphor suggests an entirely different metric for meaningful contribution: indispensability achieved through quiet enhancement . Think about the essence of salt. It is small, inexpensive, and utterly unremarkable in appearance. Yet, it possesses a transformative power that few other substances can claim. Without it, the most beautifully prepared cuisine can be reduced to a bland, tasteless experience. Salt doesn’t try to be the star; it is the essential catalyst that unlocks and amplifies the inherent flavour of everything it touches. It is the subtle alchemist in the kitchen, ensuring that the ultimate result is rich, satisfying, and memorable. The Anatomy of Quiet Influence The individuals who embody the “salt” philosophy are often the unsung heroes of our lives and communities. Their presence is a steady, stabilizing force that brings richness and depth, often without seeking or receiving obvious recognition. They are the human equivalent of that perfect pinch added just before serving. Their influence isn’t loud; it’s fundamental . At workplace, in  team meetings, they are the ones who listen intently, then offer the single, gentle observation that clarifies the confusion and moves the project forward. They are the reliable keepers of connection In a friendship circle, they remember the small details that make others feel truly  valued. In a community organization, they are the tireless volunteers who handle the logistics, the paperwork, and the necessary but tedious details that prevent the whole structure from collapsing into chaos. These contributions are rarely splashy. They don’t generate headlines. They are simply necessary . They oil the gears, connect the wires, and provide the moral and operational foundation upon which genuine success is built. They are the leaven in the bread, making the whole loaf rise without drawing attention to their own tiny granules. The Absence is Palpable The true power of salt is revealed not by its presence, but by its absence . If someone who chases the spotlight takes a day off, the meeting might be a little quieter. If someone who dominates the conversation isn’t there, the dynamic shifts, but the core function remains. But when the person who operates like salt is missing – when their quiet reliability or essential warmth is withdrawn, the whole experience subtly, yet significantly, degrades. The interactions feel hollow. The communication becomes less honest. The collective effort loses its fundamental flavour. You find yourself feeling a strange, persistent lack of vibrancy and meaning , and you instinctively know that something vital is missing. Just as a diner immediately recognizes a dish lacking seasoning, a perceptive community recognizes the void left by such an individual. It is the profound realization that the value of certain elements lie not in their volume or visibility, but in their transformative, binding, and essential quality . An Invitation to Indispensability The call to “be like salt” is not about shrinking yourself; it is about focusing your energy on the areas where you can have the deepest, most positive leverage . It is an invitation to shift your goal from being merely appreciated to being truly indispensable . This means adopting a posture of genuine service and enhancement: Prioritize Quality over Credit: Seek to make things fundamentally better, regardless of who receives the praise. Let your success be found in the improved texture and taste of the whole, not just your personal plating. Be the Stabilizer: In times of conflict or uncertainty, be the element that brings consistency, clarity, and calm. Your steady presence can anchor an entire group tossed about by storms. Find Your Essential Niche: Identify the specific, often subtle, ways your unique skills and temperament can enrich your immediate surroundings – whether it’s through meticulous organization, radical empathy, or consistent follow-through. Embracing the role of salt means cultivating a reputation for reliability and warmth, ensuring that your every interaction adds a subtle yet significant layer of flavour and integrity . It means moving through the world with the quiet confidence that your presence is a gift, and your absence is a loss. Be the quiet force that brings out the best in everything around you. Add value. Add warmth. Be essential. Be the salt.   What is the one small, consistent action you can take to be the salt – the essential ingredient in your family, community and at workplace?

Neha Suradkar Co- Founder of YOGEE Beauty   & Wellness Pvt Ltd Assistant Professor (Fashion History, Styling) LinkedIn Fashion and Design Educator, Entrepreneur, Style Coach™ and Advocate of Timeless Thinking Have you ever noticed how you automatically sit a little straighter when you are dressed well? Or how staying in nightclothes till noon somehow convinces your brain that answering emails is… optional?   This isn’t about impressing anyone. This is psychology. And I am not here to shame anyone for loving pyjamas. Pyjamas play a very important role in human happiness!   Let’s explore a fascinating concept called enclothed cognition - the idea that what we wear quietly influences how we think, feel, and behave. How clothes turn into characters Actors understand this better than most of us. When someone wears a costume, they don’t just look different, they become different. The posture shifts. The walk changes. The energy transforms. This is why costumes are never an afterthought in theatre or films; they help actors slip into character. A striking real-life example often discussed is Ranveer Singh after portraying Khilji in Padmavat . He openly spoke about how the role affected him mentally and emotionally, and how it took time to detach himself from that intense character. The costume, the body language, the constant immersion- all played a role. When you dress for a role, your mind starts playing along. Everyday life, everyday roles As Shakespeare rightly said, “All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players!” We all play different roles throughout the day; it’s just that there is no literal screen or stage. We dress differently for work than for a morning walk. Sportswear makes us feel more athletic, and sleepwear helps to calm our minds. Wedding clothes instantly put us in celebration mode, and donning the colour of the national flag makes us feel patriotic, even if it is for a day. That is also one of the reasons why many people who work from home admit that productivity drops when they stay in sleepwear all day. It’s not laziness; it’s the confusion. Your mind thinks it’s rest time, while your calendar says otherwise. Clothing aligned with the moment helps our minds switch gears with much less effort.   “My work needs my skills, not my clothes” I am sure quite a few of you have seen a trending reel (or something similar) where a young woman wears a very short skirt to work. When her husband objects, she responds by calling out his mentality and stating firmly, “My work requires my skills, not my clothes.” And she is not wrong! At least not entirely… Skills, intelligence, competence, and ethics do not come stitched into an outfit. A person’s capability does not change with a skirt, a sari, a suit, or a pair of jeans. Reducing someone’s professional worth to clothing is neither fair nor progressive. But this is where the conversation often stops. While clothes do not decide capability, they do influence context, perception, and presence, for others, and sometimes even for ourselves. Think of clothes like language. Your thoughts may be equally intelligent, but you still choose different words when speaking to a child, a friend, or a boardroom. Not because you are pretending, but because context matters. Clothes work the same way. They quietly tell our minds, and the spaces we enter, about the role we are stepping into. When our attire goes with the environment we are in, it becomes easier to feel confident, be taken seriously, and remain fully present in that moment. Dressing is Communication There is an uncomfortable truth we sometimes don’t want to believe- even if we do not want our clothes to communicate, they do! Uniforms signal responsibility. Sportswear signals movement. Formal wear signals a setting. Comfort wear signals rest. None of this is about judgment; it is about visual language. This is what enclothed cognition also explains- when external cues align with the internal role, performance improves. The performance may be professional, social, or emotional. Dressing for the occasion, not for approval Dressing “right” doesn’t mean dressing fancy. It means dressing mindfully. Clothes that let you move when movement is required Clothes that help you relax when rest is the goal Clothes that respect shared spaces like workplaces, classrooms, places of worship, and social gatherings With social media everywhere, there is pressure to dress for pictures rather than for the occasion. But an outfit that looks great on social media may not always serve the moment you are actually living in. When clothing supports the activity, you are free to experience it, rather than constantly adjusting, tugging, or feeling out of place. Not rules. Just awareness. The intention here is not to engage in moral policing or to discuss rigid dress codes. Fashion should still be expressive, and personal style should remain personal. But it is worth pausing occasionally to ask: What role am I stepping into today? And dress up accordingly. Whether you are heading to work, attending a celebration, playing a sport, or simply stepping out for errands, what you wear helps you show up as a more present version of yourself.   And if all else fails, remember: even superheroes have different outfits for different missions. So, the next time you get dressed, think of it as setting the tone for the day. Your brain gets the memo… no cape required!

Kaalika-The Rise of Rakthbeej Poonam Desai Author  In the previous chapters, we saw Hiranya Kashyap and his aide Swarbhanu discover the resurrection stone at Kalimath and manage to find the blood stones. They resurrect demon Raktbeej while Sharvari, Dhaigham, Kasar and Dilan fail to stop them. As Raktbeej comes to power, chaos reins in the entire country. Mr. Raghav Sinha from the disaster management office is contacted by Hiranya under guise of Bija financials. The PM asks Mr. Sinha to contact DIG Pandey. Chapter 13 Sharvari and Kasar waited outside DIG Pandey’s office. Sharvari was still mulling over how to explain everything to her superiors. “Don’t fret.” Kasar encouraged her. “I don’t know what we are going to report to them. All this is so surreal.” Just then the havaldar ushered them in. They both entered and were surprised to see Head of NDMA, Mr. Raghav Sinha seated opposite DIG Pandey. They both saluted simultaneously. “Sir.” “At ease. Have a seat,” DIG gestured to the additional chairs. “I hope you have some useful information for me. You are aware of the situation across the nation and Mr. Sinha is here because Mr. Hiranya Kashyap has actually reached out to the PMO.” Sharvari stilled. Kasar looked at her surprise and decided to start reporting. “Sir what I am about to tell you is going to be difficult to believe, but you will have to trust us sir that it is what has churned the events happening now.” Mr Sinha straightened in his chair, “Go on.” Kasar took a deep breadth and started. “Sir Pandey Sir had posted me on a cold case, where two historians were murdered and some precious stones went missing from the department of archaeology ten years ago. Hiranya was a likely suspect but there was no evidence to pin him for the crime. I began tracing his growth from being a relic hunter to a powerful tycoon of Bija Financials. His clout has grown over the past decade. It was in this investigation that I discovered an old man named Dhaigham who was hostage at one of Hiranya’s spots. He turned out to be the father of the dead archaeologist.” Mr. Sinha interrupted, “Why was he exactly holding an old man hostage?” Kasar continued, “Hiranya needed the stones and they were hidden at a cave at an ancient Durga temple. Dhaigham’s tribe have been guardians to it for centuries. Hiranya needed his grandson Dilan to find the temple. He killed many to reach his goal. Me and Sharvari along with Dilan and Dhaigham tried stopping Hiranya, but he succeeded in getting. All I can tell you is that those stones have somehow given him more power and he now controls the chaos.” Raghav Sinha stared at Kasar and then at DIG Pandey. “All this sounds fine. But what use is this intel. I still have no clue how we can stop him and neither do you.” Sharvari broke her silence. “Sir this is not a simple criminal case. Some of it is beyond our understanding. What I can tell you is Dhaigham and Dilan are key to stopping Hiranya. Also I believe that Hiranya is just a puppet.” Raghav Sinha frowned. “You mean someone else is running the show?” Sharvari nodded and continued, “And he is not of this world.”

Akshay Agarwal Part time poet. The Mother She was never the conventional kind And that’s how she shaped my mind She taught me cricket, not just care Strength passed like a well time throw A September soul who raised me different   The Sister We fought like siblings are meant to do Loud , petty, endless and somehow sweet She sees the world in frame and colours A mind wired to make magic real Always keeping the life in Prime Focus   The Soulmate You adore every quirk I have Love me without condition or pause You stand by me when I rise or fall Steady fierce and deeply loyal My Scorpio baby, always there for me   The Buddy You’re the “well read “ one A lefty like me wired a little different Always reading, collecting worlds Is a Mallu at heart A friendship built on shared stories   Myself Because of you four, my world has changedYou shaped how I love and listenI borrow your strength, Patience and fireLook at life through all your eyesGrateful for the man that made me be

Laisha Agarwal, 10 years old This is a poem about a refugees journey in search of safety. This poem captures the emotions of a refugee and how hope guides them like a bright light.

Presented by Vibha Singh On behalf of EI Events Committee (EIEC) Instagram English Summary This piece reflects on the celebration of Republic Day, marking the adoption of India’s Constitution on 26th January. The author describes the event as one of the most memorable experiences of their life, as it brought together the entire Emerald Isle community and revived nostalgic memories of school celebrations. After nearly a year of planning, discussions, and teamwork, the celebration was organized around the theme “Unity in Diversity,” showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage. Performances representing different states — from Punjab’s Bhangra and Gujarat’s Garba to Rajasthan’s vibrant attire, Kerala’s classical dance, Telangana’s tableau, and the cultural glimpses of the North-Eastern states — created the feeling that the entire nation had come alive on one stage. The author had the honor of hosting the event, describing it as an emotional and proud moment. The program’s success was the result of collective effort — from decoration and music arrangement to technical management and coordination. Every team member and participant contributed wholeheartedly. The celebration concluded with the National Anthem, a deeply moving moment that symbolized unity and shared pride. More than just an event, this Republic Day became a living example of leadership, collaboration, and the power of togetherness — proving that when people work in harmony, no goal is unattainable. Jai Hind. Jai Bharat. विविधता में एकता: एमरल्ड आइल का अविस्मरणीय गणतंत्र दिवस 26 जनवरी हमारे देश का एक अत्यंत महत्वपूर्ण और ऐतिहासिक दिन है। इसी दिन हमारा संविधान लागू हुआ था। इस वर्ष का यह पर्व मेरे जीवन के अब तक के सबसे यादगार पलों में से एक बन गया। इसने मुझे न केवल पूरे एमरल्ड आइल परिवार से जोड़ा, बल्कि बचपन के विद्यालयीन दिनों की स्मृतियाँ भी ताज़ा कर दीं। मुझे इस कार्यक्रम का संचालन करने का अवसर मिला — जो अपने आप में अत्यंत गौरवपूर्ण और अविस्मरणीय अनुभव था। इस कार्यक्रम की कल्पना हमने लगभग एक वर्ष पहले ही कर ली थी। अनेक बैठकों और विचार-विमर्श के बाद हर बार कुछ नया सामने आता गया। हमारी पूरी टीम सदैव पूरे उत्साह के साथ कुछ विशेष करने का प्रयास करती है। इस वर्ष भी हमने इस समारोह को एक विषय थीम — “विविधता में एकता” — के साथ प्रस्तुत किया, जिसका उद्देश्य भारत की समृद्ध संस्कृति, परंपराओं और जीवन-शैली को प्रदर्शित करना था। एमरल्ड आइल मंच पर विभिन्न राज्यों की झलक देखने को मिली — पंजाब का भांगड़ा, गुजरात का गरबा, हरियाणा की गाथाओं का जोश, राजस्थान की रंग-बिरंगी पोशाकें, केरल का नृत्य, तेलंगाना की विशेष झांकी — और उत्तर-पूर्वी राज्यों की सुंदर संस्कृति भी झांकियों के माध्यम से प्रस्तुत की गई। ऐसा प्रतीत हो रहा था मानो पूरा देश एक मंच पर सजीव हो उठा हो। मैंने इस कार्यक्रम का संचालन किया। मेरे लिए यह गर्व का क्षण था। मंच पर खड़े होकर सभी प्रस्तुतियों का परिचय देना और कार्यक्रम को सुव्यवस्थित रूप से आगे बढ़ाना मेरे लिए अत्यंत भावुक अनुभव रहा। कार्यक्रम को यादगार बनाने में हमारी पूरी टीम ने अपनी पूरी ऊर्जा लगा दी। सभी ने तन-मन से सहयोग किया। किसी ने सजावट की जिम्मेदारी सम्हाली , किसी ने संगीत और मंच व्यवस्था का ध्यान रखा। तकनीकी टीम ने ध्वनि और मंच संचालन को सुव्यवस्थित रखा, समन्वय टीम ने समय-प्रबंधन और अनुशासन सुनिश्चित किया, जिससे सभी प्रस्तुतियाँ समय पर सम्पन्न हो सकीं। सभी प्रतिभागियों का योगदान भी अत्यंत महत्वपूर्ण रहा। उन्होंने तैयारी के प्रत्येक चरण में सहयोग किया। निवासियों का उत्साह और आशीर्वाद हमें निरंतर प्रेरित करता रहा। हमारी टीम की एकजुटता और आपसी विश्वास ने इस कार्यक्रम को वास्तव में भव्य और सफल बना दिया। अंत में जब हमने राष्ट्रगान गाया, वह क्षण अत्यंत भावुक और प्रेरणादायक था। ऐसा लगा मानो एमरल्ड आइल केवल एक आवासीय परिसर नहीं, बल्कि एक परिवार बन गया हो। यह गणतंत्र दिवस केवल एक आयोजन नहीं था — यह सामूहिक प्रयास, नेतृत्व और टीमवर्क का जीवंत उदाहरण था। हमारी टीम ने यह सिद्ध कर दिया कि जब सभी मिलकर कार्य करते हैं, तो कोई भी लक्ष्य असंभव नहीं रहता। जय हिंद। जय भारत। — डॉ. विभा सिंह

Smita Shetty Chartered Accountant (CA);   FINANSYS LinkedIn ; Beyond Boardrooms by Smita Shetty Dated: 09/02/26 Anthropic’s AI Upgrade Spooked Markets Indian technology stocks sold off sharply between 4th and 6th February 2026 , extending a global downturn in software and IT services shares after an announcement from Silicon Valley-based AI firm Anthropic rattled investors worldwide             The selling was driven by extrapolation. What was the actual announcement? Anthropic announced a major upgrade to Claude, its flagship AI model, pushing it beyond a conversational assistant into what increasingly looks like an execution engine. The announcement unsettled markets because it appeared to challenge a core assumption underpinning much of the SaaS ecosystem, that AI would remain a layer that enhances existing software rather than replacing parts of it. In the immediate aftermath, investors began to price in the risk that AI could collapse multiple software layers into a single interface. Tasks that previously required a combination of specialised tools- spanning coding, legal review, compliance checks, analytics and operational workflows could now be orchestrated by AI agents through integrated plug-ins. It was this perceived threat to software abstraction layers, rather than direct job displacement, that drove the sell-off. For Indian IT services firms, that concern spilled over into broader questions about delivery models. If AI reduces the number of tools and the effort required to stitch them together, markets assumed that traditional manpower-heavy approaches would face pressure. But this is where the narrative overshoots reality. Jensen Huang , CEO of Nvidia noted that, AI systems are not standalone replacements for enterprise software or services; they are built on top of existing software stacks and depend on them to function at scale That distinction reinforces why the market narrative may have overshot reality. While Anthropic’s upgrade to Claude meaningfully compresses execution effort, it does not eliminate the need for execution ownership. Large enterprises will still require service providers to integrate AI outputs into complex, legacy-heavy systems, manage dependencies across vendors and geographies, validate and govern deployments, and ultimately own delivery risk, compliance and operational continuity. This is not ancillary work it is central to enterprise technology delivery.. We have seen this pattern before. Two years ago, consulting firms such as Bain & Company aggressively flattened their pyramids, reduced junior staffing, and compressed delivery timelines using internal automation. The result was not a decline in revenue or client dependence. Strategic partnerships remained intact, and ownership of outcomes continued to rest with the service provider. Viewed through this lens, the market reaction appears misplaced. What Anthropic’s announcement represents is a cost disruptor. The economics of delivery will change teams will get smaller, timelines shorter, and productivity higher but the reliance on service providers to execute, integrate and own outcomes will remain.

Parv Dasani 9 years Bold beginnings shape destiny—start smart, embrace emotions, decide swiftly, and every new chapter will unfold with confident momentum. New Beginnings   You need to have a strong start Hence you have to be really smart It sets the tone, be it a competition or a new year A bad start with anything, and the loss will make you stir   New beginnings can be happy or sad They can make you feel great, or really mad You’ve got to pan, emotions will be there Ore else, you are going to have a scare   If it’s your first school day All your nervousness should shy away Take it lightly And you’ll be doing things smartly   When it’s new year, like now Use your brain and decide things right now That is all, no delays A bad start to the year always pays     These are the beginnings, really new And also my advice for you Follow it nicely And your beginnings will go greatly

Author Sudheer Guntupalli - Sudheer is part of the equity investment team at Kotak Mahindra AMC and also a member of Kotak Group Young Leaders' Council. He is a Computer Science Engineer and did his PGDM from IIM Kozhikode. He lives in Emerald Isle with his wife and two kids. An avid runner, Sudheer spends his free time playing badminton.  According to Greek legend, in 490 BC, Pheidippides ran from the battle field of Marathon to Athens to announce the Greek victory over Persians. The distance between the two cities is roughly around 42 KM. Modern days marathons (42.2KM) derive their name after this tale. But what is interesting to know is what happened to Pheidippides after that victory run?   Being an avid runner for close to a decade, I had run several half marathons (21.1KM) and 10K events over time. I can also indulge myself in other intense physical activities like badminton for multiple hours at a stretch. But, in Aug-25, when I decided to register for a full marathon in Tata Mumbai Marathon (TMM 2026) event, i was not fully convinced if I could do it. Running a full marathon is altogether a different challenge even for experienced half marathoners – that too in a tropical country like India with high pollution levels. It is not just about the physical endurance and stamina; it is more about the psychological barrier of self-doubt – “Can I do it?” Overcoming it is easier said than done. Trust me, this self-doubt will run with you until 100m before finish line – especially if you are running full marathon for the first time! Then comes the training, preparation and diet. My training has largely been restricted to the treadmill given the realistic challenges like pollution, pot holes and stray dogs associated with road running! I tried and religiously ran 30-35KM per week with heavy lifting on the weekends. In the six months running up to the event, I followed a strict protein and fiber rich, sugar light and zero alcohol diet. I trained in the same clothing and shoes that I was going to use on the race day. Doing weights in the gym and breathing exercises is of help, I felt. The last two weeks before the event is the most critical – to load carbs, hydrate yourself and to get enough rest and sleep. Despite being a quasi-insomniac, this time I was able to get five hours of sleep the night before the race! Having participated in several long-distance running events, I would rate TMM as the best organized event in the entire Asian continent. Across categories, TMM 2026 witnessed a participation of ~69k people from 50 odd countries. Arrangements done by BMC, Mumbai Police and event sponsors are top notch. But what truly sets TMM apart is the people of Mumbai. From kids aged 5 to seniors aged 85, people come out on the streets in the wee hours of a Sunday morning to cheer and help for someone they don’t even know! They bring food, drinks, ice packs, analgesic sprays, carry placards, clap, shout, sing, dance, give high fives and more than anything else – celebrate your run! “I don’t even know who you are. But I am proud of you” is my favorite placard message I had seen a girl carrying in Mahim this year. The pain associated with running 42.2KM and nearly 40% of it under the sun isn’t an easy one to endure. And my left calf muscle started cramping a lot after crossing the half marathon point – which is usually my comfort zone. The thought of giving up flashed at least a dozen times in the second half of my journey. And the only reason I did not is to not let down those boys and girls, ladies and gentlemen who kept cheering and helping along the route for participants who are not even celebrities! As Nike’s hoardings across the journey kept reminding me – I did not run that far to run that far! With ice cubes in my socks, I somehow limped my way across the finish line in a respectable time frame!!     Many people, including a younger version of myself, confuse long distance running for a test of pace. It isn’t, unless you are aiming to be on the leaderboard and take home a hefty money prize. It is a test of endurance as long as you are able to clear the qualifying time criteria for the respective categories. If you are thinking of starting your running journey or participate in a long-distance running event, just do it! Running is one of the most enjoyable and good for health sports as long as you don’t overdo it. However, there is enough research that suggests participating in extreme endurance events or excessive running (80+ KM / week) can negate the benefits of moderate running (25-35 KM / week)! In fact, extreme endurance runners often run a higher risk of myocardial fibrosis, a trial fibrillation and coronary calcification compared to moderate runners. By the way, I forgot to mention that Pheidippides collapsed and died up on reaching Athens – based on the historian consensus!!

Namita Bhatia Dance Night WhatsApp A Platform Born from Passion Namaste, It gives me immense happiness to share that on 17th January , we successfully launched a platform for folk and classical dance within the EI family . “Every time I perform, I feel on top of the world—revisiting my school memories and the days of Vividh Bharti radio.” As a child, I was very passionate about dance and music. Emerald Isle already has a beautiful musical platform. I do participate—though my voice is often spoilt by Mumbai weather (allergic cough 😊). Still, every time I sing, I feel on top of the world, revisiting my school memories and the days of Vividh Bharti radio. But dancing was always a bigger passion. With my father’s transferable job, I could not follow one single stream. Yet, I never missed a chance to dance in school annual functions—mostly folk dances. I even learned Garba the traditional way in England , from migrated Gujarati families. They were not ready to pick up my Bollywood remix dandiya! 🙂 I have seen the EI family grow from its very inception. Somewhere, I felt there was a vacuum for folk and classical dance , and this platform is a small step to fill that space. This stage is open for old and young , beginners , and also for those who have kept their dancing in sleeping mode . Everyone is welcome to perform on this small but warm stage. We plan to meet once every three months . After our first meet on 17th January , I have fixed 11th April (2nd Saturday) for our next gathering. In April, I will perform . I will try to bring Uttarakhand alive on stage. Happy Dancing. Please feel free to get in touch with me. Namita – 9987589672 Debut Event Performances: Welcome Dance Folk Dance (Telugu) Siva Shruti Bollywood Song Kashmiri Song Classical Song 1 Classical Song 2 Grown-ups Dancing When the Stage Finds Its Teachers If Namita ji’s motivation gave the platform its soul, the teachers gave it rhythm and discipline. Two dance teachers who actively trained their students and encouraged them to step onto the stage shared their reflections—simple, sincere, and full of gratitude. Jagrati Tripathi Dance Teacher The dance event held on 17th January was a truly memorable and successful occasion for all of us. First and foremost, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Ms. Namita for organizing this wonderful event and giving us such a meaningful opportunity. Because of her efforts, our students got a valuable chance to perform on stage and showcase their talent. Our children worked very hard and learned the entire dance performance in just ten days . With dedication, discipline, and enthusiasm, they practiced sincerely and delivered a confident and beautiful performance on stage. Their hard work was clearly visible, and they performed with great energy and joy. In just ten days, our children learned the entire performance—with dedication, discipline, and pure enthusiasm. This event played an important role in the overall growth of the students. It helped boost their confidence, motivation, moral values, and stage presence . Such experiences encourage children to believe in themselves and inspire them to improve continuously. The event was conducted very smoothly and turned out to be a great success. We are proud of our students and grateful for the opportunity provided. We look forward to participating in many more such events in the future and continuing this journey of learning and growth. Once again, special thanks to Ms. Namita for organizing this successful event and supporting our students. — Jagrati Tripathi Seema Prashanth Bharatanatyam Dancer & Teacher I am a trained Bharatanatyam dancer and teacher , and I have been teaching students of various age groups for the past 20 years . Teaching at EI has been a wonderful experience—not only did I get to train students, but I also had the opportunity to prepare them for performances at programs hosted by the society. “This program succeeded because of constant support and encouragement.” I would like to thank Namita ji for her constant support and encouragement. Without her belief and guidance, the success of this program would not have been possible. — Seema Prashanth Feedback: