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Umme Salmaa Bharmal Your Artist friend & Art facilator Linkedin Profile Substack Blog Contact me at: 9920492453 Today (5th September) is Teacher’s Day in India. Children come with handmade cards, chocolates tucked into tiny hands, and so much sweetness spilling everywhere. It always makes me pause and think—not just about teaching, but about teachers themselves. When I look back, I realize something: I am the teacher I am today, not only because of the good teachers I had, but also because of the bad ones. The Principal Who Took Us Outdoors One of my most beautiful memories from school is of our principal. He believed that learning wasn’t confined to four walls. He took us on trips to farms, walks by the river, even to sleep under the stars on hay. Once, we even cycled in heavy rain. I was in 7th or 8th grade back then, and I still remember the excitement—packing our bags quickly and showing up because “Sir said so.” Parents didn’t question, classmates didn’t hesitate, we just went. And those experiences gave me confidence that no classroom lecture could. The Teachers Who Pulled Me Down But not all memories are sweet. Some teachers made me feel small. When Sanskrit was introduced, I struggled. I tried hard, but my marks never reflected the effort. Instead of encouragement, I was labelled average. Sports weren’t much better—I wasn’t great at basketball, but I loved running. Still, it didn’t count. Favoritism was everywhere . A few students were uplifted, while the rest of us quietly sank. I was body-shamed too, though back then we didn’t even have a word for it. Sarcasm cut deep, and some of those marks still remain with me, even now at 39. The Teacher Who Changed My Perspective Ironically, my respect for teachers came much later—when my daughter was just two years old. At her daycare, I watched her teachers closely. They remembered the little things, responded with warmth, and treated every child as precious. Watching them was an aha moment for me. I realized the power of a teacher is not just in teaching, but in shaping how a child feels about themselves. The Teacher I Choose to Be So here I am today—a teacher myself. And every day, I make a conscious choice: 💛 To be kind. 💛 To never belittle. 💛 To celebrate uniqueness. 💛 To understand that not every child learns in straight lines. When my students—especially the teenagers—respond with joy, curiosity, or even trust, I feel an incredible sense of purpose. It tells me I’m making the right kind of mark. This Teacher’s Day So yes, today is Teacher’s Day. But for me, it’s not just about being celebrated as a teacher—it’s about honoring all the teachers who shaped me. The one who gave me the courage to explore. The ones who pulled me down (and unknowingly taught me what not to do). And the ones—like my daughter’s daycare teachers—who showed me how kindness can change everything. Because of them, I stand here as a teacher who just wants to brighten a child’s day / anyone’s days spark their creativity, and maybe give them the confidence to believe in themselves. And if I can do that—even for one child / one person- I’ll call it a Teacher’s Day well spent.

Dilpreeta Vasudeva CMO at FirstLiving Spaces Linkedin ; Website ; Instagram We’ve spent years talking about inclusion like it’s a checklist- Maternity policy? Women in leadership? Diversity ratio on slides? And yet, in boardrooms and backchannels, the jokes are still sexist, the power structures still patriarchal, and the energy? Still deeply masculine. We’ve painted inclusion in pastel-delicate language, soft interventions, optional workshops. Most “gender inclusion” programs still centre around helping women adapt: build confidence, network better, negotiate harder. That’s not inclusion. That’s assimilation. Inclusion isn’t about helping women fit in. It’s about remaking the system so they don’t have to. Women don’t need fixing. Organisations do. If >75% of employee base is still male, why is 100% of “inclusion training” still aimed at women? This isn’t ideology. It’s ROI. Workplaces with high gender inclusion see: ➤ 21% higher profitability ➤ 27% more value creation ➤ Significantly lower attrition (McKinsey, 2023; Catalyst; HBR) But metrics don’t create momentum. Mindsets do. And the real shift? It happens when men stop being observers of inclusion- and start being owners of it. You don’t change the game by fixing the ones who were never allowed to play. You change it by retraining the ones who wrote the rules. Still Training Women? You’re Doing It Wrong. She’s already adapted. Already leaned in. Already held back tears in the loo and self-doubt in the boardroom. Stop handing her another toolkit. The problem isn’t her ambition. It’s your assumptions. If she walks in with ideas and walks out unheard, if she’s praised for being “aggressive enough to make it,” you don’t have an inclusion gap- you have a culture one. Train the Men. the performative behaviours. the ego that talks over her in meetings, the silence that lets bias slip by, the insecurity that rises when she shines, the bro-code that masquerades as “culture fit.” Untrain the entitlement. Rewire the room. Break the rituals of exclusion that tradition protects. Because the Future Isn’t Female. It’s Evolved. This future won’t be born in pink-toned campaigns. It’ll be forged in uncomfortable boardroom conversations. In leaders who don’t just nod at change—but become it. To the Men Who Lead: This Is Your Work Too. If you’re not calling out bias, if you’re not listening to understand, if you’re not sponsoring power- then don’t call yourself an ally. Allyship isn’t a sticker you wear. It’s a stand you take. And if you’re not risking comfort or credibility, you’re not leading. You’re blending in. To the CXOs and HR Heads: Don’t add another “women in leadership” workshop. Don’t throw us flowers on Women’s Day. Don’t check your box and call it equity. Ask the real question: What are you doing to retrain those who’ve always held the room? Because if you’re still asking how to empower women, you’ve already missed the point. Let’s stop asking women to be resilient. Let’s start asking men to evolve.

Vinayak Rao A study abroad counselor at Gradmonk Former Immigration Officer, New Zealand Embassy Ex-India Representative, University of Auckland Education Counsellor in Hiranandani, Powai LinkedIn When 18-year-old Rhea from Mumbai told her grandparents she was applying to a liberal arts university, they were puzzled. “Why not engineering? ” they asked. For them, success was a straight road: medicine, law, or technology. But for Rhea, the appeal of a university like Ashoka or Krea was clear— she wanted to study psychology and economics, dabble in theatre, and still explore data science. Rhea’s choice is no longer unusual. Across India, thousands of students are stepping away from rigid professional courses and embracing the flexibility of liberal arts education. These universities offer an ecosystem where disciplines intersect. A student might study politics and philosophy in the morning, write a short story in the afternoon, and run regression models in the evening. The rise of such institutions reflects a broader shift in India’s aspirations. Parents, once skeptical, are warming up to the idea after seeing how graduates thrive in consulting, public policy, startups, and creative industries. Employers, too, are driving demand—valuing graduates who can think critically, adapt quickly, and communicate across cultures. It isn’t just about jobs, though. Students say liberal arts education gives them space to question, explore, and build confidence. As one Krea student put it, “I came here not knowing who I was. The courses and conversations helped me figure out not just what I want to do, but who I want to be.” Of course, challenges remain. Fees can be steep, and access is still limited compared to traditional colleges. Yet the momentum is unmistakable. From Delhi to Chennai, campuses are buzzing with young minds unafraid to carve unconventional paths. For India, this shift signals more than just a new model of education—it reflects a generation ready to think differently, and in doing so, reshape the future. Book an expert consultation for Liberal Arts Admissions with Vinayak Rao (Education Consultant) on 9819700567

Harinath Fitness Enthusiast Linkedin Profile ; EI Outlook Editor Featuring: - Heena Khan Co - Founder of NIFS ( Instagram ,   9137193765 ) Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Nutritionist (6 years) Why Strength Training Matters for Women When it comes to fitness, women often face unique challenges—fluctuating hormones, busy family and work schedules, and the pressures of balancing multiple roles. Our society’s very own Heena Khan , Personal trainer With 6 years expertise in strength training and functional training , has been training women from all walks of life, and she firmly believes that strength training is not just important for women—it’s essential . Strength training isn’t just for muscles — it’s for your hormones, your bones, and your confidence.” – Heena Khan Why Women Need It More Than Men Heena explains that women’s bodies go through unique hormonal fluctuations due to menstrual cycles, pregnancy, postpartum changes, and menopause. Add to that the daily physical and mental demands of office work, household responsibilities, and childcare, and it becomes clear why women need a solid foundation of strength. “Strength training helps you meet these challenges with energy and resilience,” she says. “It builds muscular strength, supports cardiovascular endurance, boosts metabolism, balances hormones, and helps maintain ideal body composition—while giving you the physical ability for everyday tasks.” “The more muscle you build, the more fat you burn — even while resting.” Health Benefits Beyond the Gym Strength training for women isn’t just about appearance—it’s about long-term health: Improved bone density – crucial for preventing osteoporosis. Better hormone balance – aiding in the management of conditions like PCOS and PCOD. Metabolic boost – helping maintain a healthy weight. Increased daily activity strength – whether it’s carrying groceries, chasing after children, or simply feeling energetic throughout the day.” Life Stage Advantages Heena highlights how strength training supports women through different life phases: Teen Years – Encourages height growth, improves muscular strength, boosts hormone secretion, and improves blood flow, aiding in healthy menstrual cycles. Before Marriage – Balances key hormones like estrogen and thyroid hormones (T3, T4), helps manage PCOS/PCOD, supports healthy hair and skin, and promotes ideal body composition. Pregnancy Preparation – Improves hormone balance and addresses PCOS/PCOD issues that often affect conception. Post-35 & Menopause – After the age of 35, women lose about 1% of natural hormone production each year. Strength training helps stimulate hormone production, maintain muscle mass, and improve overall vitality. “Ladies, weights are your best anti-aging tool.” Myths & Misconceptions Busted 1. “Lifting weights will make me bulky.” Absolutely not, says Heena. “Strength training tones the body, reduces fat, and builds lean muscle. Bulk comes only if you eat in a calorie surplus—otherwise, you’ll just get stronger and leaner.” 2. “Women need a different workout than men.” For general fitness, the answer is no. “Training is based on genetics, not gender. The basic principles are the same,” she explains. 3. “Women don’t need much protein.” Wrong again. Protein is fuel for your muscles. Heena recommends 1g of protein per kg of body weight as a minimum , and up to 2g per kg for those training intensely. 4. “Supplements are a must.” Not always. “If you’re meeting your nutritional needs through food, you don’t need supplements. They’re only necessary when your diet falls short.” Hormonal Balance & Mood Beyond physical benefits, Heena stresses that strength training supports mental and emotional health.“Resistance training improves internal health by stimulating the right hormone secretion and sending correct signals to the brain. This helps manage mood swings, stress, and overall mental well-being.” A Call to Action Strength training is not just about shaping the body—it’s about shaping a healthier, stronger, and more confident life . As Heena says, “Start small, stay consistent, and remember—it’s never too late to start.” Beginner’s Guide to Strength Training for Women (With Coach Heena Khan, Certified Personal Trainer & Nutritionist) 1. Start with the Basics Frequency: 3 sessions per week for beginners. Duration: 45- 60 minutes per session. Goal: Learn correct form before adding heavier weights. 2. Key Exercises to Include (Full-body approach) Squats – Lower body strength & core stability Push-ups – Upper body strength Deadlifts – Glutes, hamstrings & posture Rows – Back & biceps Planks – Core & spine support 3. Warm-Up & Cool Down 5–10 min dynamic warm-up before lifting Light stretches post-workout to aid recovery 4. Rest & Recovery Don’t train the same muscle group two days in a row. Prioritize 7–8 hours of sleep for muscle repair. 5. Nutrition Basics Protein: 1–2g per kg of body weight daily Hydrate well — aim for 2–3 liters of water Eat balanced meals with protein, carbs, and healthy fats This article is part of our ongoing EI Outlook Women’s Wellness series. Stay tuned for more in Part 2, where we explore real-life transformation stories from our very own community members.

Neelu Sunil Kalra Yoga Instructor, Yoga Institute, Mumbai LinkedIn Profile Website What are Chakras? Chakras, a Sanskrit word meaning "Wheels," are concentrated energy centres that governs our mental, emotional and physical well-being. These spinning vortices provide passage for energy to enter and exit our body and help to regulate all types of energy flow i.e. physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. They constantly absorb universal life energy (Prana) which is stored, assimilated and transmitted, according to the body’s needs. In our subtle body, there are seven main chakras located along the spine starting from the base of the spine to the crown of the head. Any obstruction in the flow of Prana indicates that there is a blockage in a chakra . When energy flow is deficient, chakra is said to be underactive , when it is excess, chakra is said to be overactive and when energy wheels are completely blocked, then the chakra is in a closed state . This leads to imbalance of chakras and any imbalance will lead to distress, illness and lack of mind body coordination. What affects our Chakras? Factors like stress, ego, our belief system, anger, unhealthy lifestyle and holding on to negative emotion scan lead to imbalance in the chakra. If chakras can be blocked, they can definitely be unblocked through yoga sana, pranayama, meditation, mindfulness and visualisation, observing and reflecting on our behaviour. Overview of Root Chakra/ Muladhara Chakra The Muladhara, or Root Chakra, is the first chakra located at the very base of the spine, right between the genitals and the anus. Its name derives from Sanskrit: " Mula " meaning root , and " adhara " meaning support . When we hear the word "root" first thing that comes to our mind is roots of a tree, isn't it? What are the main functions of roots? They anchor it firmly, keeping it stable and absorb nutrients to feed the whole plant. Our Root Chakra works in much the same way! It is responsible for our stability and that vital feeling of being grounded. Just like other chakras, it draws in cosmic energy ( Prana ) and, with the help of Nadis (subtle, invisible energy channels), distributes it throughout our system. This base chakra is seen as the foundation of physical structure of our body and if the foundation is strong, then a person feels stable, grounded, confident and full of energy. Muladhara Chakra and Earth Element Muladhara Chakra directly represents the earth element . It is not just that chakras have the quality of an element; instead, each chakra is about its element. Because there is an earth element, there is Muladhara Chakra. To understand Root Chakra, we need to understand the very nature of earth i.e. stable, hard, solid, rigid, structured, grounding, and restraining. Earth represents the core principle of holding ; it is all about structure and stability. Physically, it provides our very framework. Imagine a skeleton without muscles—it would simply collapse. To hold the organs and bones we have muscles, and this is why muscles are earth element, which are also responsible for our physical structure. Efficient muscles that hold body steadily, will create security in your mind. As we grow old, there is natural degeneration of muscles which reduces earth element. The more muscle mass we lose, the less physically stable we feel, which is why older individuals often rely on aids like sticks or walkers. Hence, earth element is all about stability , with strength being its key component. Our only connection to the ground is our feet. The way our feet anchors to the ground sends signal to the brain, hence feet health is very important. If our connection to the ground is weak, pelvic floor will have to take the pressure and it will become rigid because our centre of gravity is somewhere near the pubis, the area of our first chakra. So, if we want to stabilise our root chakra, at physical level, we start working on strengthening our lower body which includes our feet, ankle and hips. We will feel stable not only in our body, but in life as well. It is very important to build this physical stability because it leads directly to mental security. On the flipside, mental insecurity can actually cause physical instability. Think about a child who's scared; they run to their parents for a hug, and that hug makes them feel secure. That's the earth element increasing, which boosts security. Even something as simple as holding someone's hand when they're distressed can act as "earthing." It reassures them that everything will be okay. These seemingly small actions, or even just comforting words, can truly change the configuration of our elements. In today's stressful world, we really need these reassurances, don't we? Simple Solutions to Balance Our Root Chakra Connect with Nature: Spend time outdoors, especially practice "earthing" by walking barefoot on the ground. Practice Grounding Yoga Poses : Incorporate poses like Mountain Pose (Tadasana), Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I) and Child's Pose (Balasana) into your routine. Eat Root Vegetables : Nourish your body with grounding foods such as beets, carrots, and potatoes. Use Affirmations : Regularly repeat phrases like, "I am safe," "I am grounded," and "I trust in life." Practice mindful breathing : When you feel anxious, take deep breaths. Inhale slowly through your nose, then gently purse your lips as you exhale, making the exhalation longer. This simple technique activates your parasympathetic nervous system, helping you feel more present and calmer. Confront small fears: Start by addressing minor anxieties. Overcoming these smaller hurdles builds confidence and a sense of security. Seek connection : Spend time with loved ones. Their company provides a sense of safety and belonging. Cultivate gratitude : Actively practice being thankful for what we have. This reduces the fear of loss and helps us appreciate our current blessings. Embrace expansion : Go beyond just seeing solidity; feel the element and its potential for expansion. Increase your earth element by giving hugs to friends and family. This kind of physical connection is a powerful form of "earthing." Hand Mudra: Apply Prithvi Mudra for 20 minutes a day (10 minutes morning and 10 minutes in the evening) Energetic Philosophy In yogic and tantric traditions, earth is considered the densest of the five elements, symbolizing the very foundation of life. The Root Chakra governs our connection to physical existence and sense of security which are the characteristics of earth element. When our Root Chakra is balanced, we experience a powerful feeling of being anchored, capable, and safe in the world. Neelu Kalra Certified Yoga Instructor, YouTuber & Author www.yogathejourneywithin.com

Namya Aggarwal A runner, Writer and student (12 th  Class) LinkedIn It’s a common human experience: telling children to always tell the truth, then making an excuse to a colleague about missing a meeting. We speak passionately about health, yet indulge in fried street food. We claim to believe in equality, but stay silent when faced with subtle family biases. These contradictions may seem harmless, but they create a kind of mental discomfort that psychology calls cognitive dissonance . First introduced by American psychologist Leon Festinger in the 1950s, cognitive dissonance refers to the tension we feel when our actions conflict with our beliefs or when we hold two opposing thoughts at the same time. It’s not simply guilt— it’s the mind’s way of signaling that something doesn’t quite fit. In day-to-day life, cognitive dissonance plays out more often than we realize. A person who deeply values environmental sustainability might still accept a plastic bag at the grocery store out of convenience. Someone who believes in treating all religions equally might still participate in biased discussions during community gatherings. These internal conflicts are rarely black and white; they are shaped by tradition, family, social pressure, and our need for comfort. Why does this matter? Because unresolved dissonance, even in small doses, can slowly affect our peace of mind. We might begin to justify our actions repeatedly, which over time can lead to stress, self-doubt, or even disconnection from our values. The brain naturally seeks harmony between what we believe and how we behave. When it doesn’t find that harmony, it tries to resolve the tension—sometimes by changing the action, sometimes by adjusting the belief, or by creating excuses that make the contradiction feel more acceptable. Cognitive dissonance doesn’t just happen in textbooks or psychology lectures. It lives in the ordinary moments of life—quiet, familiar, and sometimes uncomfortable. Take Ramesh, a 48-year-old banker in Delhi. He’s proud of being a modern, progressive father. Yet, when his daughter says she wants to pursue music full-time, he finds himself pushing her toward an MBA. Later that night, he can’t shake the discomfort—because he knows he’s acting against the values he often speaks about. Or Sunita, a schoolteacher in Pune who teaches her students about climate change. She genuinely cares. But every weekend, she still drives her car short distances when she could walk or carpool. She tells herself, “There’s no time,” but the feeling of hypocrisy lingers. These are not failures. They’re simply signs of conflict between belief and behavior—something every thinking, feeling person experiences. And while we can’t escape these moments, we can learn from them. When we slow down and ask ourselves why we feel that tension, we often uncover deeper truths about what we value, what we fear, or what we’re avoiding. Sometimes we make small changes —like deciding to take the stairs instead of the lift because we truly care about fitness. Sometimes we rethink what we believed altogether. Either way, it’s not the discomfort that defines us, but how we respond to it. Cognitive dissonance isn’t a flaw in your character—it’s a signal that you’re still paying attention to your values. In a world full of noise, that’s a quiet kind of strength

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 “Why do we need to study history? We are designing for the future, not the past!” As someone who teaches design history, I have heard this question more times than I can count. And my answer is always the same: “Because if you don’t know where you have come from, how will you know where to go, or what to carry forward?” In a world where change is constant and progress is the buzzword, looking back might feel counterintuitive. But those who pause to understand the past (whether it is personal, cultural, or historical) are the ones who build with meaning, empathy, and wisdom. Whether you are an entrepreneur launching a product, a parent raising thoughtful children, a corporate leader shaping a company culture, or a student navigating identity, your connection to the past can be your strongest foundation. History Offers Patterns, Not Just Dates From economic cycles to political movements, from innovation waves to social change, history shows us that human behaviour follows patterns. The tools may change, but the motivations often remain the same. Those who have studied past crises, such as the 1929 Depression , the Partition, or public health outbreaks, usually respond to today’s challenges with greater foresight and less panic. They understand context, they anticipate consequences. History is not just about what happened. It is about why it happened. And once you start seeing those “whys” and understand the context, you begin to make smarter, more ethical decisions, whether in business, public policy, or daily life. Culture is Inherited Wisdom History and culture are inseparable. Culture incorporates our customs, food, clothing, festivals, art, architecture, and values, which are passed down through generations. It gives us a sense of belonging, identity, and a sense of place. Whether it is the way we greet each other, the fabrics we wear in summer, or the spices we use in our kitchens, these are not random choices. They are shaped by centuries of lived experience in particular geographies, climates, and societies. Today, as the world becomes more global, cultural exchange is easier, but so is cultural appropriation. Understanding Culture vs. Appropriating It We live in an era when fashion, art, and media are borrowing aesthetics from around the world. And while this can be beautiful, it also comes with a responsibility. Cultural appreciation is when we engage with elements of another culture with respect, research, and acknowledgement. It is when a designer, for example, studies the significance of tribal embroidery before using it in a collection, or credits the community that inspired a silhouette or motif. Cultural appropriation , on the other hand, is when we use aspects of a culture, especially one that has been historically marginalised, without understanding its meaning, or turning it into a trend, without the context. A recent example that sparked widespread debate was when luxury fashion brand Prada released a pair of slippers strikingly similar to Maharashtra’s traditional GI-tagged Kolhapuri chappals , priced at over ₹1.2 Lacs. While fashion has long drawn inspiration from traditional crafts, this move was heavily criticised for being tone-deaf. Why? Because there was no acknowledgement of the centuries-old artisans who make Kolhapuris by hand, often for a fraction of that price, and under economic hardship. This incident reminded the world that borrowing cultural aesthetics without respecting or crediting their origins is not innovation. It is appropriation! And it is precisely why we must understand the history and socio-cultural context behind what we use, wear, or sell. Knowing the past and the cultural weight it carries is not just about being informed. It is about being respectful. In a diverse community like ours, where people come together with different languages, traditions, and beliefs, this awareness fosters harmony. It allows us to celebrate differences without crossing boundaries. Your Past is Your Power Our personal histories shape our preferences, our decisions, and our values. Have you ever wondered why a particular festival evokes strong emotions, or why your grandmother's recipe brings comfort like no other? That is the power of memory and continuity. In the corporate world, professionals who are familiar with the history of their industry tend to make better leaders. They understand evolution, legacy, and how to build on it. In creative fields, designers and artists who understand historical references produce work that is layered, not just trendy. Even in daily life, knowing your family history or local heritage helps you make more informed, intentional choices, be it buying handmade over mass-produced, supporting local artisans, or passing down traditions to your children. Stories Connect Us All History is made of stories. And stories are how we connect, not just to our ancestors, but to each other. When a retired resident shares how the city looked 40 years ago, or a teenager interviews her grandmother about her wedding day traditions, it is not just nostalgia. It is an exchange of perspective. It is how we learn empathy, respect, and resilience. We don't preserve stories because they are old. We preserve them because they carry meaning. As a diverse, intergenerational community, we can start honouring the past while designing a better future: Story Circles: Organise gatherings where residents share personal or cultural stories. It could be about festivals, career milestones, migration, or even old hobbies that are disappearing. Cultural Awareness Events: Host events where different communities showcase the origins and meanings of their traditions, not just their food or costumes. Mentorship Across Ages: Pair seniors and youngsters, not just for academic mentoring, but also for sharing life stories, values, and skills that are not typically taught in classrooms. We are all designers of the future, whether we are parenting, building businesses, writing code, designing clothes, or simply trying to live a life of purpose. And every design needs a reference, a foundation. History gives us that foundation. Culture gives it depth. Stories give it soul. So do not dismiss the past as something dusty and irrelevant. See it as your toolkit, your inheritance, your mirror. To design wisely, live consciously, and lead empathetically, start by understanding what came before. Know the past. Honour the culture. Design the future!

Smita Shetty Chartered Accountant (CA);   FINANSYS LinkedIn ; Beyond Boardrooms by Smita Shetty The recent CA results have brought a wave of emotions across the country, of joy, relief, disappointment, and sometimes heartbreak. With the overall pass percentage hovering around 15% , many students are still waiting for their breakthrough. Whether you’ve seen the word "PASS" on your screen or felt the sting of another attempt that didn’t go your way, I want to share a piece of my journey with you. Back in 2012, when I cleared my exams, my facebook post simply read: "Finally a CA!" The joy, the relief, and the overwhelming sense of achievement are emotions I still feel deeply even today. But here’s something most people don’t see. Before that moment, I too faced failures, times when I didn’t clear an exam despite giving it my all. I still remember the day I failed one of my PCC groups; it felt like my world had collapsed. I was ashamed! this was my first real failure. Looking back, I now realize that failure wasn’t a roadblock. It was a stepping stone. It taught me that resilience, perseverance, and the ability to rise again are as important, if not more than technical knowledge. This early lesson helped me accept failure and grow stronger, whereas I’ve seen some of the brightest minds -MBA gold medalists and toppers, struggle to bounce back after just one professional setback. Throughout my professional journey, especially during my years in the Middle East, I rarely used the "CA" prefix in front of my name. But what I always carried forward was the confidence, discipline, and strategic thinking that this journey instilled in me. ICAI didn’t just make me a professional; it gave me the tools to navigate life’s complexities with a calm certainty "Ho jayega." History is full of people who failed before they succeeded: Amitabh Bachchan was rejected by All India Radio for his voice - today, he is the voice of an era. Steve Jobs was fired from his own company, Apple, before returning to build it into a tech giant. Walt Disney was told he lacked imagination, yet he created a world of magic. JK Rowling faced multiple rejections for Harry Potter, which is now a global phenomenon. To all the students who have cleared the exams: celebrate, but remember this is just the beginning of an incredible professional journey. The real learning lies ahead, where your CA preparation will help you conquer challenges beyond books. And to those who haven’t cleared this time: take a deep breath. This result does not define your potential, intelligence, or future. Every late-night study session, every failure you overcome, is building a version of you that is stronger and unstoppable. Your "Finally a CA!" moment is waiting for you, and when it arrives, it will be worth every sleepless night, every doubt, and every single attempt. So, don’t lose hope. The CA journey isn’t meant to be easy—it’s meant to shape you into someone who can face the world with resilience, wisdom, and grit. Trust the process. Your time is coming.

Umme Salmaa Bharmal Your Artist friend & Art facilator Linkedin Profile Substack Blog Contact me at: 9920492453 I have always believed, with every fiber of my being, that art is for everyone. You don’t need to be “born with talent” or possess the mythical “artist’s gene” to create something beautiful. What you do need is a way of learning that makes sense to you. As an art educator , I see my role not as simply handing out a set of instructions, but as finding the pathway that allows each student to connect deeply with the process of making art. Because no two students will walk that path in the same way. For one child, it might mean breaking a lesson down into small, clear, bite-sized steps so they never feel overwhelmed or lost. For another, it’s giving them the freedom to run wild with an idea, to explore without boundaries, before we gently refine it together. And then there are times when my role is simply to encourage them to make a “mistake” and keep going—showing them that art doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful. Sometimes, the smudge or the crooked line becomes the most interesting part of the piece. The Shy Smile That Changes Everything There’s a special kind of magic in watching a shy child transform in an art class. When they first walk in, they often avoid eye contact. Their voice is barely audible when they answer a question. They hesitate to show me their work, as if the paper might reveal flaws they’d rather keep hidden. I can sense their inner dialogue— What if it’s not good enough? What if everyone else is better than me? In those moments, I know my job is not to rush them, but to make the class feel like a safe, pressure-free space. My voice stays gentle, my feedback kind but specific, and I let them decide when they’re ready to share. Sometimes I’ll sit beside them and start sketching quietly. There’s no “teacher” or “student” in that moment—just two people creating together. And then, one day, something shifts. They bring me a painting—not because I’ve asked, but because they want to. Their shoulders are a little straighter. Their eyes meet mine without hesitation. They tell me about their process, even laugh about a color that didn’t turn out as expected. When they leave the room that day with a smile and say, “See you next week!”—I know the change runs deeper than learning how to blend paint or sketch a tree. They’re learning to believe in themselves. And that’s a skill far greater than any technique I can teach. Why Tweens and Teens Are Different to Teach Teaching younger children is often about harnessing raw enthusiasm. They’ll try almost anything without overthinking. Mistakes? They don’t care—they’re too busy enjoying the process. Adults, on the other hand, often bring patience but also fixed ideas of what they can and cannot do. Tweens and teens? They live in a space right between those two worlds. By this age, they’ve become more self-aware. They have preferences, sometimes fiercely so, and they’re often deeply sensitive to how others perceive them. This makes them wonderfully unique to teach, but also more complex. A single piece of feedback can either encourage them or make them second-guess themselves. That’s why my lessons for this age group are never one-size-fits-all. I might adapt the same activity in three different ways: One version for the extrovert who thrives on group interaction, where collaboration sparks their best ideas. Another for the perfectionist who needs exercises that encourage letting go—quick sketches, abstract experiments, or timed challenges. And a quieter, more private version for the observer who works best in their own space, where they can process at their own pace before sharing. For me, teaching tweens and teens is as much about reading personalities as it is about teaching techniques. It’s a balance of structure and freedom, technical instruction and emotional safety. The Joy of the Return If you ask me what my favorite part of teaching is, it’s not the perfectly blended colors or the straightest, most precise lines. It’s something far less visible but infinitely more rewarding. It’s that moment when a student—especially one who once doubted themselves—walks out of my class with a lightness in their step. It ’s when they come back the following week, eager to begin again, because they’ve found a place where their art feels truly theirs. A place where their work is respected, celebrated, and understood , no matter what stage they’re at. I’ve learned that art isn’t just a skill—it’s a language . It allows us to say things we can’t always put into words. And when I teach tweens and teens, my goal isn’t only to show them how to draw or paint. It’s to give them the tools to express who they are— loudly, quietly, or somewhere in between. And every time they choose to return to that creative space we’ve built together, I know they’re not just learning art. They’re learning self-trust, resilience, and joy. And to me, that will always be the real masterpiece.

Vasudevan Ramaswami Partner, Verts Management Consulting LLP Linkedin In a large financial services company, the senior leadership team comprising of about 40 employees had assembled at a nearby hotel for a 3 day workshop on ” Team building and engaging to excel ”. It was the first month of the new financial year and an apt time to kick off this initiative as a prelude to the strategic business planning exercise that was to follow later. The composition of the leadership team has about 75% of the old guard (employees who have been with the company for more than 6 years) and 25% of the new guard (employees who have joined in the last 1 year). The program facilitator started the proceedings by asking everyone to standup and assemble in the middle of the conference room. He then projected a statement on the screen that read as follows. The company is aware of its strategic goals and is well positioned to deliver this over the next 3 years. He then said that the left of the room indicates a strong agreement to this statement, the right indicates a strong disagreement to the statement, the center being neutral with the space between showing different levels of agreement or disagreement. He requested all the leaders to occupy the positions on the continuum that best indicated their choices. What do you think happened? The position showing strong agreement to the statement was quickly occupied by the old guard while the position showing strong disagreement was populated by the new guard. It was not surprising because it is generally a reflection of the following human behavioral patterns. An existing team believes that what it has done and is doing is appropriate and that nothing needs to change. It also believes that they have the experience of what has worked well and not well and the same will be good for the future too. It would be difficult for them to publicly state that there are areas that need to improve and that there is a need to innovate and adapt to the changing market environment. Sometimes it is also a statement of “” We know best”” and therefore being blinded to potential opportunities that need to be pursued. On the other hand, the new guard also comes with experience that is outside of the company and is able to dispassionately look at what are the things that need improvement and what are the possible opportunities and capabilities that can propel the company to meet the demands of the future. However, it is important that the new guard acknowledges the strengths of the company, what has worked well and how the same can be reinforced to meet future business growth. This black and white demonstration of this activity expressed the need for the entire leadership team to do a dispassionate SWOT (Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats), exchange ideas and bring the collective experience of the old guard and the new guard over the next 3 days to draw up a blue print on how the company can be innovative and successful in the backdrop of a rapidly changing market environment. The most important need was to let go of preconceived notions on both sides, examine issues objectively and be honest in their assessments of what needs to be retained, dropped and changed (RDC model). It is never easy but companies need to constantly do this to seamlessly integrate old and new teams, have clarity on the overall vision/ shared goals and set up strong engagement models to deliver excellence in their business pursuits. On the last day of this program post deliberations, this same team was asked to occupy positions to express their agreement and disagreement to the same statement that was shared on day 1. This time, there were more people of the old guard who had shifted towards the right of the room and more people of the new guard who had shifted marginally to the left from their earlier position but essentially showing a shift of about 65% now disagreeing with the statement and 35% agreeing with the statement from the earlier number 25% and 75% respectively. It was a great beginning to understand where the company stands as of now and what the entire team in its collective wisdom and experience needs to do to ensure that 100% of them agree with this statement in the next 6 months to 1 year. Collective Ownership, shared goals, strong team engagement and adaption to change is the only way to deliver strong sustainable business performance.

Dilpreeta Vasudeva CMO at FirstLiving Spaces Linkedin ; Website ; Instagram The best AI, you ask? The one no one notices-because it just works. Having spent the better part of my career in tech-led businesses, I’ve learnt something simple: You don’t need to be technical to understand the potential solutions tech unlocks. And that’s exactly my area of curiosity- What does AI   actually   unleash for marketers? Because no matter how passionate we get about the tech, customers don’t care what tech you use and honestly so don’t I-only that it works. Here are 4 areas where I believe AI changes the game: 1. Performance ≠ Just Predictive Models 💡 AI’s edge isn’t in automation and scale. It lies in  amplifying relevance, unlocking precision , and  accelerating curiosity . ❌ “How do we automate media buying & scale impressions?” ✅“Who do we talk to, when, with what—and what’s about to stop working?” 🎯 Use AI for: Dynamic audience reshuffling & smarter channel mix Funnel-stage personalization & ghosting prediction Spotting micro-triggers in conversion drop-offs Real-time budget reallocation + bid optimization Hypothesis-driven micro-tests• Multivariate testing across creatives & journeys 🧠  Are we using AI to get answers—or to ask smarter questions? 2. Brand & Creative ≠ Voice + Volume 💡 AI doesn’t invent your brand voice or replace human creativity. It  unlocks creative velocity  and  enables intelligent personalization . ❌ “Can AI write our brand story & generate content?” ✅ “Can it uphold our tone, values, and adapt creative intelligently?” 🎯 Use AI for: Voice-safe templates that scale Dynamic resizing, tagging, & language variations Testing thumbnails, CTAs, & message variants Scaling one idea into multiple personalized formats Flagging tone inconsistencies before publishing 🧠  Is AI helping us tell more relevant stories—or just more stories? 3. CX ≠ Just Chatbots 💡 AI isn’t here to make life easier for the brand—it’s here to do so for the customer.  Experience equity > resolution speed. ❌ “How do we automate support?” ✅ “How can we proactively create moments of ease, trust, and delight?” 🎯 Use AI for: Solving predictable issues before they escalate Friction-point prediction based on journey & sentiment data Personalized recovery nudges (credits, callbacks) Invisible anticipatory design (autofill, skip steps, save states) 🧠  Customers don’t want a ‘smart assistant.’ They want zero reasons to reach out. 4. Leadership ≠ AI Cheerleading 💡 You don’t need to be the most AI-forward. But you do need to  own its impact . ❌ “What’s our AI strategy?” ✅ “What business problem is AI solving—and can we measure it?” 🎯 Use AI for: Streamlining ops & cross-functional chaos Reviewing what AI actually got right (or didn’t) Modeling pricing, churn, and growth scenarios 🧠  Are you treating AI as a tool to manage—or a capability to lead? AI isn’t for better metrics alone. It’s for better decisions.

T. Mohan Chandra Aviation Consultant & Advisor Connect: 9819915824 or Email (Acknowledge the need for change and the challenges facing the current education system) The following are 13 suggestions to improve the quality of education: 1. Education Quality Management System (EQMS) : Before implementing any process or system, both statutory bodies and educational organizations should practice predictive and proactive approaches. 2. The syllabus/curriculum should be revised to support employment, professional business, or entrepreneurship. 3. Due to the exposure of the new generation to world activities through hi-tech gadgets, there is a need for human science and decision-making ability-related subjects at the school level to avoid confusion and threats to the next generation. 4. The knowledge-based effective system, i.e., objective/application type examination system, should be introduced to align with industry practices and global business trends, as quality knowledge and good talent have become a rare commodity due to the number game of marks in the existing system. 5. To create a better generation, a quality practice teacher system should be introduced as the knowledge gain depends on the teacher's ability and the student's capability. 6. The stay-connected syndrome is killing the precious time and energy of the younger generation, leading to confusion and chaos due to more unwanted inputs/information. An authenticated guidance group or system should be introduced to provide the right direction and support for positive growth. 7. A stress management system should be introduced in the school environment to encourage multidisciplinary or multitasking ability, which will help individuals deal with stress and develop a risk appetite culture. 8. An industry-driven syllabus should be introduced in education, instead of focusing solely on a technology-based syllabus, as the industry only supports skills relevant to employment. 9. An international teacher-student ratio should be introduced for standard and quality enhancement, as the existing teacher-student ratio is alarming and the standard of education has reached the bottom level, making the teaching of complex ideas difficult and almost missing. 10. Direct application-oriented research activities should be encouraged, rather than research for degree purposes. 11. Industry expertise participation should be encouraged in the school/college education system to understand aspiration and reality mismatch and encourage the vision and risk appetite needed for industrial global trends. 12. " The essence of education lies in the concentration of the mind, not just the accumulation of facts. Therefore, schools should introduce and encourage activities that enhance focus to promote good health and a sound mind. This will help young minds utilize their time and energy effectively with clarity and focus. " 13. Education should not be seen as a mere survival tool, but rather as a means for the holistic development of individuals, empowering them to lead an extraordinary life. As the saying goes, " A person's worth is determined by the associate/company they keep ". Therefore, it is important to create a positive and nurturing environment within schools where students can associate with people who are good-hearted and are surrounded by positivity. “Believe in Positive Systems, Processes and Nurturing World Class Culture for Successful Cost-Effective Projects”