Who is Rutba Showkat?

An accomplished martial artist, Rutba Showkat has won over 50 medals in state and national-level championships, and now stands immortalized in the Guinness World Records, the premier keeper of global records, for her record-breaking feat of crafting 250 paper boats in one hour.

In an interview with Zee News, Rutba revealed that she developed a passion for art during the COVID-19 pandemic, which set her on the path to carve her name in the record books by achieving something unique.

“I am an athlete, and during COVID, all the academies were closed, so I started exploring art. I began making landscape art, and during that time, I got my name registered in the India Book of Records. That was the moment I decided to aim for something bigger. I read about the Guinness Book of Records, researched the process, and applied,” Rutba was quoted as saying by Zee News.

Rutba’s path to glory

The young trailblazer revealed that her journey to mark her name in the record books was not an easy one as she failed twice in her attempt to break the record, but ultimately triumphed on her third bid, carving her name in the annals of history. “While researching, I came across origami paper art and learned about a boy who had made 150 paper boats in an hour. That’s when I decided to break his record—and I did, by making 250 boats in one hour,” she said.

Earlier, Rutba Showkat had earned a place in the India Book of Records, but her crowning glory came when she ultimately etched her name in the Guinness Book of World Records, catapulting her to the status of an icon for young Kashmiri girls to emulate by breaking traditional barriers and carving their unique paths in life.

Faced criticism for ‘wasting my time’

Rutba also recalled how she faced criticism for going after the record with many telling her she was wasting her time with these things. However, Rutba’s family always supported her choices, ultimately leading her to glory.

“A lot of people criticized me and said I was wasting my time, but I didn’t give up. My family’s support kept me going. Many girls are either too shy or held back by their families, but I believe they should be independent. Even if they have to start small, they should. While checking the available records, I found one related to origami, something I had been doing for a long time. That’s when I decided to work on it and break the record. I have been an athlete for the last ten years, competing at the national level and participating in All India competitions. Sports are incredibly important, both physically and mentally, and art helps refresh my mind.” she adds.

Prajakta Koli and Vrishank Khanal’s Viral Wedding Video

Prajakat Koli rose to fame with her quirky content on social media and today she has become an influential personality herself. Her fans have been rooting for Vrishank and Prajakta to tie the knot and as the couple did so in a fantasyland somewhere in Karjat, it is little hard to keep calm.

Among the several videos, this heartwarming moment took centerstage as two female priests were seen around the havan kund chanting the mantras for the couple.

Female priest at Prajkta Koli’s wedding – Watch Video

 

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Draped in a violet saree and another in orange-yellow hues, two females were officiating the wedding ceremony. The lady in brinjal saree was chanting the mantras for the pheras with a mic in her hand. The video has mustered lot of love with netizens appreciating the effort.

However, this is not the first time something like this has taken place. Back in 2021, actress Dia Mirza also got married to businessman Vaibhav Rekhi  by a female priest names Sheetal Atta. Months later she opened up about how the idea dawned upon her after attending another friend’s wedding.

What’s the hype around it? While it may be common i particular cultures, in a country this populous, a female priest is an uncommon sight making it more refreshing and something to be talked about.

All About Prajakta Koli ‘s Dreamy Wedding

Prajakta Koli and Vrishank Khanal love story is a 11 year old tale that started with chatting regularly on a Blackberry Messenger. “We met at a common friend’s house when I was 18 and Vrishank was 22. On a whim, we ended up exchanging BlackBerry Messenger pins, which was the rage back then. Since we were young and unhinged, we ended up talking all day and all night and soon realised there was a lot more than ‘just talking’, the couple admitted while speaking in an interview with Vogue.

The wedding was a close celebration that spread hues of laughter. The bride wore minimal yet stunning outfits. For her wedding day, Koli chose to be an Anita Dongre bride donning a traditional Pichwai lehenga that sparkles with floral motifs of Parijat pattern, which is also another name for Prajakta, making it an ode to her name!

Prajakta Koli’s wedding day lehenga was designed by Anita Dongre (Anita Dongre/Instagram)

Vrishank has Nepali roots and hence once can see certain Nepali tradition being beautifully incorporated in the wedding. For the reception, Prajkata had a long green neckpiece that is called a pottey tilhari – a traditional jewellery that symbolises love, warmth and is a sign of a married woman.

Who is Damyanti Hingorani Gupta?

Born in what is now Pakistan in 1942, Damyanti Hingorani’s family moved to India after the 1947 partition. Damyanti excelled in studies since her childhood and the tender age of 13, she decided to become an engineer, a career unheard for women in that era, especially in conservative societies like India.

Damyanti Hingorani recalls how she was inspired by the words of India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, and decided to pursue engineering, even though she knew that it would not be easy. After finishing school, Damyanti became the first female student in India to attend an engineering college where she earned a degree in mechanical engineering.

During those times, there wasn’t even a girl’s bathroom in the college, because women in India did not study careers like engineering and physics. Damyanti reveals how she had got to a public bathroom located around 1.5 km away from her college. However, the gritty woman overcame all these hurdles and earned a bachelors degree in mechanical engineering.

First woman to work at Ford

Damyanti Hingorani was a fan of American industrialist and founder of Ford Motor Company, Henry Ford. The business magnate’s biography had deeply inspired and she had made up her mind to work for his company, and in order to pursue that dream, Damyanti and her family, including her three siblings moved to the United States in 1967.

Damyanti applied for work at the Henry Ford’s Ford Motor Company, but the American carmaker promptly rejected her application because the company followed an archaic policy of not hiring women engineers. Shocked, surprised and dejected by Ford’s reply, Damyanti Hingorani chose not to lose hope, and persisted with her goal of working for the company she wanted.

Hingorani asked Ford a simple question; “how will you ever know whether women can be good engineers if you never give them a chance?”. Damyanti’s confidence and resolve impressed the company’s officials and they decided to alter their ancient policy and hire her.

Damyanti Hingorani worked at Ford Motor Company for 35 years, paving the way for countless other women who later worked for the company over the years.

Keerthy Suresh’s Bridal Sarees Decoded

Keerthy Suresh draped a heritage saree piece in shades of mustard and yellow for her wedding. It was a nine-yard long Madisar silk saree worn by Tamil Brahmin women. Suresh wore a custom Anita Dongre pure handloom Kanjeevaram saree made in over 405 hours. It was crafted with diamond needle-inspired geometric checks in gold zari and nature motifs. Woven using the Korvai technique, the border and pallu are in different colors, with a personal poem by Keerthy herself.

Antony’s look is a handwoven silk kurta and dhoti in Korvai technique, paired with a matching Kanjeevaram stole and took 105 hours to be crafted into a final piece of art.

Watch video of Keerthy Suresh poem on her bridal saree

 

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Exuding traditional heritage opulence was Keerthy’s gold bridal jewellery. The headpieces were a highlight. The bride’s hair were adorned with  Andal Kodai (side hair bun) decorated with gold and pearl detailing, the nethi chutti (matha patti) the suryapirai (sun) and chandrapirai (moon) gold intricate headpieces embellished with gemstones and the Jadanagam (braid ornament).

Keerthy Suresh’s traditional bridal hair jewellery

Keerthy completed her bridal hairstyle with mogra flowers.

Keerthy Suresh’s red bridal saree was an ode to…

Keerthy changes her two-tone silk saree with a red-maroon saree. She styled it with ruby jewellery. This was a special piece as the saree belonged to her mother. Keerthy Suresh second saree was an ode to her mom, Menaka Suresh who also is an actress.  The maroon Anita Dongre blouse was exquisitely adorned with delicate floral motifs meticulously embroidered in shimmering zari. This drawing inspiration from the intricate patterns of her mother’s matching saree.

On the work front, Keerthy Suresh will be next seen in Varun Dhawan starrer ‘Baby John.’

Weight Loss Diet to Reduce Belly Fat

Meredith shares her weight loss journey on her social media handle. From her workout session, exercises for fat loss to the importance of diet, she documents it all. In a post shared how she swapped green tea instead of coffee. Green tea is has bioactive substances that may help inn giving your metabolism a boost. It is important for burning calories. This helps in breaking down fat cells too. It has antioxidants that can have fat burning properties.

 

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In one of her posts, Hutson described why what we eat is important.

“When you’re on a weight loss journey it’s so important having an understanding of the macronutrients you’re putting into your body! Just prioritizing calories in and calories out you miss so much of the very important vitamins and minerals your body NEEDS especially if you’re a girlie like me who had to lose a lot of weight!,” reads her caption.

• When you don’t eat enough protein your hair & skin will take a big hit that’s not even including the muscle mass you will lose causing your metabolism and body transformation to also take a hard hit.
• When your fat intake is to low it can drastically affect your hormones & brain function.
• When your carb intake is to low your energy will crash and feeling tired will constantly be something you struggle with. Also when it’s to high it can affect you in many ways for those that might battle certain health conditions.
• When your fiber intake is low your gut health is affected and you will constantly be hungry.

One must remember that while these routines worked for Meredith and her body, it might be different for others. It is important to note that weight loss journeys are unique and subjective to individual’s requirements. It also essential to embark on a sustainable regime instead of quick fixes because there are none.

Bride and groom Sobhita and Naga Chaitanya

Nagarjuna Akkineni, father of Naga Chaitanya, shared photos after the the two actors were wed in compliance to all the rituals and traditions. Penning a heartfelt message on X, the South Indian superstar wrote, “Watching Sobhita and Chay begin this beautiful chapter together has been a special and emotional moment for me. Congratulations to my beloved Chay, and welcome to the family dear Sobhita—you’ve already brought so much happiness into our lives…(sic)”

Newlywed Naga Chaitanya and Sobhita Dhulipala with Nagarjuna

Decoding Sobhita Dhulipala’s Bridal Look

The new bride wore a stunning silk saree and paired it with a basikam (forehead thread), maathapatti and a septum nose ring. She wore layered heavy gold jewellery statement necklaces and bangles and earrings. One can see a closed neck necklace with two other long pieces. According to media reports, she elevated her traditional look, with sun and moon motifs, vanki, bajuband, and kamarband that speak of her culture and heritage. Also, a bouquet of gaja adorned her long pigtail that was braided with more ornaments as well.

#NagaChaithanya #SobhitaDhulipala wedding#SoChay #SoChayWedding #Nagarjuna pic.twitter.com/grtcMnj9P3

— Vijin M (@CineBuzzX) December 4, 2024

Days before the nuptials took place, India Today reported about how the bride herself is indulged in managing details of her wedding trousseau. Quoting a report shared by the actor’s team mentioned a source explaining, “Sobhita Dhulipala picked a beautiful Kanjivaram silk saree with real gold zari while shopping with her mother. She’s also getting a simple white khadi saree woven in Ponduru, Andhra Pradesh, along with a matching set for Chaitanya, following tradition. Sobhita is personally involved in every detail, adding a special and heartfelt touch to her big day.”

New bride Sobhita Dhulipala in her heritage bridal look

For glam picks, Sobhita opted for a gold and bronze tone palette. Her golden eye shadow with bronze lip shade and deep kohl-eyes make her a gorgeous South Indian bride.

Honouring the culture, Naga Chaitanya and Sobhita Dhulipala will visit either Tirupati Temple or he Srisailam Temple to seek blessings as a part of their post-wedding rituals.

 

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Who is Kavya Mehra, India’s First AI Mom Influencer?

Kavya’ Instagram bio reads, “India’s first AI mom, powered by real moms.” Her feed is a reflection of the same where she shares her view of motherhood and even as something to say about the Bollywood wives and how she sees them as mothers. Apart from this, Kavya cooks, paints and also indulges in skincare regimens. “From planning strategies to planning meals, this is my journey—a real, unfiltered look at how I’m figuring out motherhood, all while holding on to the Kavya that existed before the kids, (sic)” reads one of her captions.

Like, every other influencer, she does not let go off trends and seems to be learning the curve of change. With the wedding season here, Mehra too has her look of the day to share!

Kavya Mehra has strong opinions about motherhood. She shares her throwback photos from her pregnancy phase to her little on growing up. In a post she shared what kind of mom she want to be.
“A mom that is emotionally available and can stand on her own… someone whose love is warm and steady that the children should know that they can come to her, be their safe place…,” she shares in a video.

Mehra’s content appears to be centred around the idea of how mothers should be responsible towards their children, family but also prioritise their own self. Kavya shares snippets from her everyday life. From cooking he favourite shaakshook, to enjoying Diwali or having some ‘monday musings.’

The Collective Artist Network has launched this AI driven mom influencer. “This milestone underscores our commitment to redefining the boundaries of storytelling. Kavya isn’t just a technological innovation—she’s a reflection of the real- life experiences of society,” said Vijay Subramaniam, Founder and Group CEO of Collective Artists Network. “AI allows us to amplify authentic voices, but its true power lies in its ability to tap into deeply human stories and emotions.”

Rysa Panday to make debut at Le Bal 2024

Who is Rysa Panday?

Rysa Panday is Ananya Panday’s younger sister. Born to Chunky Panday and Bhavana Panday, she completed her schooling in Mumbai. According to her LinkedIn bio, she is currently pursuing her higher education at New York University Tisch School of Arts. Unlike her sister, Rysa has not been a big fan of being in the limelight.

On various occasion, it has come to the fore that Rysa has an inclination towards the creative fields. She wishes to explore filmmaking, creating writing and more. A private person by nature, Rysa stays away from the media. Currently, she is making headlines for her debut and her haute couture. Traditionally, all the debutantes at the Le Bal wear haute couture from ace designers from across the globe.

Rysa will be seen donning stunning couture from Ellie Saab. The official Le Bal social media revealed Rysa’s gown for the Le Bal.

 

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This is not the first time though that Rysa was present at the Ball in Paris. In 2017, she was there when her sister was present as one of the debutantes.

Ananya Panday with sister Rysa Panday at Le Bal 2017 (Bhavana Panday/Instagram)

Ananya Panday is Rysa’s Biggest Cheerleader

Family, siblings are one of the biggest supporters in success. Soon after Rysa was introduced by Le Bal, Ananya Panday ensure to make the loudest sound. ‘Call Me Bae’ actress took to her Instagram stories and called her ‘real-life princess.”

Ananya’s girl gang was not behind. Suhana Khan and Shanaya Kapoor, also reacted to the post. While Suhana commented, “Most beautiful Rysa,” Shanaya wrote, “Princess.”Maheep Kapoor complimented Rysa and wrote, “Hail Princess Rysaaaa.” Meanwhile, Ananya and Rysa’s mom, Bhavana, called her “My prettiest baby girl”.

Ananya Panday amde her debut in 2017 along with her cousin Ahaan Panday.

 

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What is Le Bal?

A ball sounds a pretty fancy and lavish affair, which it is. A party of the rich. In the 18th century England, it was a tradition of the society where the youth were “introduced in the society” (Bridgerton much?)

In 1994, Ophélie Renouard invented a modern version that she named “le Bal”. Its purpose is to raise money for Charities to help young women. Of course now, due to Facebook and other social media, the Debs need not to make their social debut,the Bal is rather the unforgettable moment of their couture and media premiers, reads the official statement.

Shanaya Kapoor, Isha Ambani, Princess Gauravi Kumari of Jaipur, Ashna Mehta have been the debutantes at the ball.

Chola slays the vibrancy of the colours and carries confidence up her sleeve like a pro. In a conversation with BBC, she says, “I feel different, I feel new and alive in these clothes, in a way that I’ve never felt before.”

The Story of Margaret Chola, An Accidental Fashion Icon

Grandparents are among the biggest cheerleaders who will go above and beyond to fulfill their grandchildren wishes. Similar, with Margaret, it was all about just playing dress up wit her grand daughter Diana Kaumba, a New York based stylist, in 2023. The duo started a fortnightly Granny Series. The brainchild was developed when Dianna was visiting Zambia for her father’s second death anniversary.

 

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During this time, Kaumba did not get a chance to wear all her stylish clothes, hence she asked her “Mbuya” (grandmother in Bemna language) to try. “I wasn’t doing anything at the time, so I just said: ‘OK. If that’s what you want to do let’s do it – why not?” Chola said.

That one silver pantsuit became the first of many iconic fashion moments the duo cherishes between themselves. “I thought it would be nice to dress up Mbuya in high fashion and then take photographs of her in her natural habitat,”Kaumba tells the BBC.

After dropping the first photo of her grandmother, her phone was buzzing with over 1000 likes and comments. “My mind was blown. The comments were flying in and people were asking for more.”

These photoshoot brought the grand daughter closer to her Margaret’s past. According to BBC report, she was educated till the age of 12 or 13 and soon was married of to a 30 years old man by her grandparents due to financial restrain. Later, she had three children, ended up drinking heavily and eventually escaped the marriage.

But these colourful dresses have given her a new purpose to wake up everyday for.And Mbuya’s personal favourite – jeans, a graphic T-shirt with her image on the front and a blonde wig.

 

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“I had never worn jeans or a wig before – so I was happy, and I was dancing.” Celebrating the excess eclectic combination, Chola and Kaumbe have reached the hearts of everyone globally.

Journey of Radha Maniamma

The 74-year-old hails from a modest background in Kerala. Growing up in a traditional setting, she faced the usual challenges that many women in her community encounter, including limited opportunities for education and career advancement. Speaking to Indian Express, she once revealed how her passion for driving can be attributed to her husband. Burning the fire passion at a time when i was not even a thing for women, Radha Maniamma got four-wheeler licence in 1981 learning to drive from an ambassador and then within five years. Later, she also acquired a heavy vehicle licence becoming the first woman in Kerala to do so in 1984.

 

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The couple began A2Z Institute of Heavy Equipment in 197o. The dynamic duo helped several people to learn and get their heavy duty license made. After the demise of Amma’s husband in 2004, the business slowly became a big deal in Kerala that also empowered women to venture in this rather male-dominated field.

Her efforts and endeavour were recognised by the India Book of Records and received the “Inspirational Personality of the Year 2022” award. In this digital driven age, Amma’s presence goes far and wide. Today she boast of 29.2K followers and counting.

 

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Her multiple licenses not only reflect her driving skills but also symbolise her determination to challenge stereotypes about women in the transportation industry. By sharing her knowledge and experience, she inspires others to take the wheel-literally and metaphorically.

Who is Maharani Sita Devi?

Princess Karam, also known as Maharani Sita Devi of Kapurthala, was much admired for her unique fashion choices and elegance. In addition to her captivating beauty, she was an intelligent lady. The Maharani was famous for the way she perfectly draped her sarees won the admiration of top Italian fashion house Schiaparelli, who were inspired to incorporate facets of her style into their own work.

Sita Devi, the Maharani, was well-known for her luxurious lifestyle. She and the Maharaja were fond of spending on lavish shopping spree, including a couple of trips to the United States where they spent a staggering 83 crore rupees. Sita Devi was famed for her extravagant attire and frequently traveled with a thousand sarees, each perfectly paired with its footwear. Her array of jewelry also commanded substantial attention.

Exquisite jewelries of Sita Devi

Sita Devi was presented with an array of exquisite jewelry pieces from the Baroda treasury, some of which dated back to the Mughal era, according to Christie’s New York. Among her remarkable collection were a seven-strand pearl necklace and a deluxe three-row diamond necklace, studded with the famous ‘Star of the South’ and ‘English Dresden’ diamonds. While a number of her valuable pieces were put up for auction in Monaco, the seven-strand pearl necklace remained a treasure in the Baroda Royal Treasury.

Princess Karam was born as Sita Devi in 1915 to a Hindu Rajput Raja Uday Raj Singh of Kashipur, Uttarakhand. She was married to Prince Karmjit Singh, son of King of Kapurthala at the tender age of 13. Later in her life, she was honoured to have helped raise funds for the Indian soldiers during the second world war.

According to her own narrative, Mukta is an “accidental” model. She is making waves all over the internet as she walked the ramp at the Lakme Fashion Week 2024 with sass and utmost grace. It is afresh to see the 61-year-old model walking her dream with al things blingy.

Mukta Singh at Lakme Fashion Week (Instagram)

All about Mukta Singh

The world of social media can do wonders in ways we probably don’t even comprehend, whilst it remains a double edged sword. Singh began creating content online, or let us just say, she was being Mukta in today’s world.  She started posting on her Instagram account and actively so. Eventually, she was discovered in 2021. It is then when her career started at 58.

“I started greying at 15. By the time I turned 30, I had so much grey hair that I looked way past my age. I also didn’t have the conventional good looks — fair skin, silky, straight hair and the like,” she told speaking with Her Story.

Eventually, Singh started using Henna, then switched to hair dyeing. “I’d be going to the salon every now and then, switching from one colour to another. I went from orange to dark brown and black, and as new hair grew, this cycle repeated,” Singh added.

After life threw her a curveball, she decided to bat it out. It got tough when her mother was battling cancer and her dog got paralysis. In order to come out of the adversity and make time for herself, Singh rejuvenated her love for Hard Rock. Took a brush and coloured her world again. “My Budhhist practice and my art came together cathartically to help me express myself wholly and creatively to the world.”

The first shoot as a model

Singh once wore a saree by a brand she was impressed with when her niece draped a saree from them. “I decided to style myself and wear it to a family wedding. That day, the number of compliments I received fuelled me to post my photograph in the saree online and tag them,” said Singh. Akaaro, in turn, received an overwhelming response, which inspired it to do a full-fledged shoot with Singh—an opportunity she saw to reclaim and embrace herself fully after years of being at odds with her appearance. She has also been awarded with  Cosmo’s Ageless Blogger of the year.

 

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Since then , it has been upwards and forwards for her. She played muse for Shweta Kapur, Harper’s Bazaar, Amit Aggarwal and so many others. Believe it or not, Mukta has also featured in a hit film featuring Amitabh Bachchan, Prabhas and DeepikaPadukone. Yes, Kalki.

 

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Mukta is nonchalant and owns her age flawlessly. Embracing her greys, she challenges all the societal norms a women, an older person may be challenges with. Nothing gets old when the heart beats young.

Navigating Outdated Tools Amid Economic Uncertainty

As the economic fallout from COVID-19 unfolded, it became clear that bank’s decade-old machine learning model was no longer adequate. Built on outdated data and legacy logistic regression techniques, the model struggled to predict default risks with the accuracy needed to manage a portfolio of such magnitude. This shortcoming was more than a technical issue—it posed a significant risk to the financial stability of the bank. Harshita understood that a mere update would not suffice; what was needed was a complete overhaul, one that would equip bank with the tools necessary to navigate an unpredictable economic landscape.

Building a Next-Generation ML Model

Harshita set out to create a next-generation machine learning model that would transcend the limitations of the outdated system. Leading a team of data scientists, data engineers, and risk analysts, she helped design a model that leveraged advanced algorithms and real-time data to predict defaults with a level of precision far beyond what had been possible before. Her approach was not just about improving the existing model but about revolutionizing how the bank managed risk. By incorporating sophisticated machine learning techniques, she ensured that the new model could withstand economic shocks, providing the bank with a proactive and predictive strategy for managing its home lending portfolio.

A New Standard in Risk Management

The impact of Harshita’s work was profound. The next-generation model she developed not only significantly improved the accuracy of default predictions but also empowered the bank to implement more targeted, effective interventions. As a result, delinquency rates decreased, and the bank’s ability to navigate economic uncertainty was markedly enhanced. Her innovative approach set a new standard in risk management, demonstrating the critical role that advanced machine learning techniques can play in the financial services industry, particularly during times of crisis.

About Harshita

Harshita is a visionary leader in financial services, renowned for her ability to tackle complex challenges with innovative solutions. Her expertise in machine learning and risk management has consistently driven transformative change. She spearheaded the development of a next-generation ML model that redefined how the bank approached delinquency reduction, showcasing her commitment to excellence and her forward-thinking approach to financial technology.

First Published: 20 May, 2023

“Winning Miss India Worldwide is such an incredible honour. It’s more than a crown – it represents my heritage, my values, and the opportunity to inspire others on a global scale,” Dhruvi said after her crowning in Edison, New Jersey.

Who is Dhruvi Patel, NRI techie with big dreams

Dhruvi has always been fascinated with world of fashion. Since the age of 8, Dhruvi was inclined towards the glitz and glamour for the pageantry realm. In an interview she mentioned, “Unfortunately, school commitments took precedence, and I couldn’t pursue my interest back then. Now, with a renewed passion, I am eager to balance academics and aspirations as I embark on my journey into the world of pageantry.”

VIDEO | Dhruvi Patel, a Computer Information System student from USA, has been declared as the winner of Miss India Worldwide 2024, the longest running Indian pageant outside India.

READ: https://t.co/uUWwqEGEE3

(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvqRQz) pic.twitter.com/z3ZLY7zwba

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 20, 2024

In 2023, she was crowned Miss India New England. She has also won Miss Rhode Island and was a contestant in the Miss World America Pageant.

When Dhruvi Patel won the title of Miss India New England 2023

Patel’s roots speak of rich and vibrant culture of Gujarat. Currently, she resides in Hamden, Connecticut, with her parents and siblings. In a bid to pursue her passion in the field of IT, she joined Dhruvi joined Quinnipiac University in 2021 as Computer Information System student.

Dhruvi Patel with her family.

Well, Dhruvi is not just another engineer who won a title. The Indian origin techie aspires to one day become UNICEF brand ambassador and also make her debut in Bollywood! She runs a home-based nonprofit called 3D Charities. She runs the organisation along with her siblings Darsh and Dhriti.

Apart from preparing for pageants, working up as Computer Science professional, Patel also enjoys the realm of sports as per report.

About Miss India Worldwide 2024

Lisa Abdoelhak from Suriname was declared the first runner-up, while Malvika Sharma from the Netherlands was adjudged the second runner-up in the same race, as reported by PTI. In the Mrs category, SuAnn Mouttet from Trinidad and Tobago was the winner, with Sneha Nambiar the first and Pawandip Kaur from the United Kingdom the second-runner up.

In the Teen category, Sierra Suret from Guadeloupe was crowned Miss Teen India Worldwide. Shreya Singh from the Netherlands and Shradha Tedjoe from Suriname were declared the first and second runners-up. The beauty pageant is organised by New York-based India Festival Committee and is headed by Indian-Americans Neelam and Dharmatma Saran.

The crown is celebrating its 31st anniversary this year.

Shloka Mehta’s stylist is a businesswoman who has a special connection with the ambani family too. A style icon herself, the designer has walked the streets of Milan. And truth be told, she is also good friends with Isha Ambani.

This dual relationships is formed because Shloka’s stylist is none other than her little sister Diya Mehta Jatia!

All about Diya Mehta Jatia

Diya Mehta Jatia completed her school in Dhirubhai Ambani School in Mumbai. Pursuing her passions, she went for Graphic Design at Central Saint Martins and the London College of Communication.For the opulent Ambani wedding, she curated some bespoke pieces pieces for her sister in collaborations with major designers in India. A sister’s choice is the most trusted opinion after and Shloka proved it with her every look and how!

 

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Apart from being one of the most sought after stylists, Mehta is a businesswoman with different ventures in different field. Diya believes in doing good for the society in best way possible.

 

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At 24, she got marrid to o Ayush Jatia, a UK based restaurant owner. They are parents to a boy and a girl.

Kate Winslet on testosterone therapy

During the podcast, she shared how dips in libido can actually be linked be hormonal imbalance. The ‘Titanic’ actress said, “Sometimes women have a real dip in libido because there might be stuff going on with their thyroid. There could also be stuff going on with your level of testosterone.”

“A lot of people don’t know this, but women have testosterone in their body, when it runs out—like eggs—it’s gone. And once it’s gone you have to replace it, and that is something that can be done and you’ll feel sexy again. I know,” she added.

How testosterones impact women?

Testosterone is a sex hormone that is is found in everyone. However, the levels are  high in men. This androgen, nonetheless impacts the sexual and overhealth in women as well. It aids in determining sex drive and fertility, making new blood cells, supporting cognitive health and function, and strengthening muscles and bones.

But, testosterones reduces in women with age. And this is often overlooked in women. Reduced levels can cause negative impact on health from cognition, bone density, hormonal imbalance, moodswings to lowered sex drive.

What is testosterone replacement therapy?

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a medical treatment designed to raise testosterone levels in individuals with low testosterone.

1. Increased Libido: One of the most common benefits of TRT for women is an improvement in sexual desire and arousal.
2. Improved Mood: Some women report enhanced mood and reduced feelings of depression or anxiety after starting TRT.
3. Increased Energy Levels: TRT can help improve overall energy and reduce fatigue, leading to a better quality of life.
4. Enhanced Muscle Strength: Testosterone plays a role in muscle mass; thus, TRT may help women increase muscle strength and improve physical performance.
5. Bone Density: Testosterone contributes to bone health. TRT may help protect against osteoporosis and bone loss in women, especially post-menopause.

However, there are few risks and side effects that one should be aware about. It may affect menstrual cycle, mood swings and other bodily functions as well.  Testosterone Replacement Therapy can be beneficial for women experiencing low testosterone levels, but it should be approached carefully under medical supervision. Regular monitoring and consultations with healthcare providers are essential to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Do you know the story behind MS Subbulakshmi’s colour?

She is the singer in the world to have a colour named after her. According to The Hindu, the vocalist stepped into a shop with a blue thread in her hand and wanted to ge a full saree weaved out of it. This later came to be known as ‘MS Blue.’

Vidya Balan recreated a Subbu moment in her iconic ‘MS Blue’ colour.

M.S Subbulakshmi was born in 1916, Madurai, Tamil Nadu – then called the Madras Presidency. She was born into a musical family – her mother was the well-known veena player Shanmukavadiver Ammal, while her grandmother was a violinist.

Subbulakshmi began learning Carnatic music at an early age, receiving training from the Carnatic singer Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer. Before she was to become an internationally-renowned singer, however, M.S Subbulakshmi had a brush with cinema. In 1938, she starred in the Tamil movie Sevasadanam – a commercial and critical success.For much of the 20th century, adoration rained down on her. Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru said of her: “Who am I, a mere Prime Minister before a Queen, a Queen of Music.” The civil rights leader and poet Sarojini Naidu called her the “Nightingale of India.”

M.S. Subbulakshmi died in 2004. In the year following her death, the United Nations issued postage stamps commemorating her birth centenary. Then, in 2006, the Tirupati Urban Development Authority erected a bronze statue of her in the city of Tirupati, in south-eastern India.

Vidya Balan recreates MS Subbulakshmi’s style

 

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Vidya Balan, speaking to The Hindu, said that she grew up listening to MS Subbulakshmi’s voice every morning when her mother played ‘Suprabhatam’ by her. “My everyday still begins with her voice. For me, MS Subbulakshmi is a spiritual experience. Therefore, this has been a labour of love, and an honour to be able to pay tribute this way,” Vidya says.

After drowning, she overcame her water phobia and today she navigates the streams like a pro mermaid! Effortless and smooth.

All about 80-year-old swimmer from Gujarat

Bakulaben Patel told BBC that she was once afraid of the water and avoided learning to swim all her life. However, when she was 58 years old, she set out on a new journey, exploring different athletic endeavours. She began competing nationally at 59, has represented India at tournaments in 12 countries across North America, Europe, Asia and Australasia and has nine international medals and over 500 certificates to her name.

She decided to let go of her fears and take up swimming. “I asked myself ‘How long am I to keep running away from swimming?’ and that was when I made the stern decision to finally learn the skill,” Patel told BBC. Patel learnt to swim in the Tapi River, where she continues to go for her regular practice. Her daily routine involves waking up early, jogging to the river, and doing stretches at the bank before diving in.

She has also instructed over 400 swimmers in her life and hopes to continue and hopes to continue encouraging more people into the sport.

Taking on more challenging waters worldwide, Bakulaben Patel has won a plethora of medals and certificates. Patel told the outlet that the most difficult was her swim in the Canadian Sea, where she resiliently swam twice.

Not just swimming, Bakulaben Patel also debuted as a Bharatnatyam dancer at the age of 75. She made headlines for being one of the oldest persons to learn and perform the Arangetram. Patel has been felicitated as a dancer too.

Patel reflects an unstoppable aura that keeps her pushing to achieve more. She said that she hopes to conquer the English Channel one day and also aims to set a Guinness World Record in swimming.

“I was into sports and athletics from a young age, but I lost my parents early, was married off at thirteen and became a widow when my children were still young. I felt all alone,” she shares over the phone from her Surat home. When her children flew the nest several years later, she didn’t know what to do, she recalls, her voice laced with melancholy. “So I thought I would distract myself with a sport,” she spoke to Vogue,

That there is quiet disapproval from naysayers who’d rather see her wearing reading glasses than swimming goggles isn’t lost on Patel. “I’m unaffected by it,” she shrugs. Next on her wish list is a Rashtrapati Award from the prime minister. “It’s my biggest dream to make this nation proud,” she says. Little does she know, she already has.

This year the designer turned bake created a special form Lord Ganesh – Ardhnari form with using 30 kg of dark chocolate.

According to the baker’s Instagram post, “It symbolizes the unity of masculine and feminine energies. This form of Ganapati holds special significance in Hinduism. It underscores the idea that both male and female principles are essential and complementary, promoting harmony and balance in the universe. This message is particularly important in today’s times, given the increasing rate of crimes against women. While Ardhanarishvara is traditionally associated with Shiva and Parvati, there are also depictions and interpretations involving Ganpati. The Halayudha Stotra, dating back to around the 11th century, mentions Ganesha’s Ardhanari form. An idol of the half-man, half-woman Ganesha is installed in an 800-year-old temple in Goregaon, Raigad (Maharashtra), and it is considered very auspicious.”

Meet baker who crafts chocolate Ganesh and her special visarjan ritual

A commercial designer by profession, Rintu always harboured a desire for baking. Rathod also wanted to be a full-time mother. Hence, she decided to leave her job and start a new journey as a baker. She started a company called Rini Bakeshich specialises in three-dimensional, egg-less cakes.

The 25-inch tall murti is entirely crafted from 30 kg of dark chocolate and painted with food colors. As has been the tradition for the last 14 years, on Anant Chaturdashi, it will be immersed in milk, and the resultant chocolate milk will be distributed to underprivileged children, ensuring that Bappa’s divinity and blessings stay with them forever.

Last year she made headlines for her 40-kg chocolate-millet Ganesh.

 

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Rintu has always contributed for the betterment of the society in some or the other way. She has worked in different NGOs for the underprivileged, kids with cancer.

 

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She even provided food aid to the victims of Nepal earthquake in 2015.

Telangana’s Vritti Agarwal came second, clocking 4:25.09, followed by Bhavya Sachdeva who clocked 4:30.94 finishing in third place.

16 yo, Hashika Ramachandra has broken National Record in Women’s 400m Freestyle on Day 1 of the 2024 Senior National Championships

Well Done Hasika pic.twitter.com/RQyPJPmppJ

— The Khel India (@TheKhelIndia) September 11, 2024

Who is Hashika Ramachandra?

According to Deccan Herald, Hashika as been swimming since the age of four. In 2017, she faced significant challenges after losing her father, Ramachandra, to pancreatic neuroendocrine cancer. Despite these hardships, her mother, Latha sold their property to support Hashika’s aspirations.

Well, Hashika is no stranger to setting records. She set a national mark in the women’s 200m medley at the 76th National Aquatic Championships in 2023. She claimed gold with a time of 2:21.15, comfortably surpassing the previous record of 2:23.62 set by Richa Mishra in 2010. She trains at Dolphin Aquatics in Bengluru under the guidance of Coach Madhukumar. After winning multiple medals in her debut at the 2022 National Games in Gujarat, she became the first female athlete from Karnataka in 23 years to win the ‘Best Female Athlete’ award, following Nisha Millet.

At just 16, Hashika’s achievements serve as an inspiration to young athletes across India. Her journey showcases that starting young and dedicated to a sport can lead to remarkable success. She continues to train rigorously, with hopes of representing India on an international level in the near future. Hashika Ramachandra is a name that will continue to make waves in the swimming world, and her story is a reminder of passion, dedication and the pursuit of excellence.