The Real Celeb's - By Bipin Sharma
Sonal Gupta : For all those emergency moments
Born with a silver spoon, life could have been very uncomplicated for DPS RKP alumni Sonal Gupta had he simply taken over the mantle of his successful family owned paper import and trading business. Alas! that was not to be, since the philanthropist in Sonal unremittingly had this burning desire in him to do something remarkable for the society, one that could benefit countless of people around him during those crisis hours when help is far away and almost impossible to reach. Unlike beings who venture into projects after evaluating the ‘pros and the cons’ meaning the long term commercial gains and other related merits, this entrepreneur set out for exploring an avenue which he felt was not just close to his heart, but would also play a pivotal role in helping the distressed people at those crucial moments when they were all alone and needed immediate redemption. Thus what ensued was an exhaustive brainstorming session with his better half Shoma for days together. Often in the leisure moments when families would take sabbaticals to tranquil, greener pastures, Sonal and Shoma would ponder for hours over that unraveled void in today’s fast paced life which they could probably fill with their pioneering initiative. It literally needed a virtual divine insinuation from their daughter Kashish when she reminded them about an infamous child kidnapping saga in the capital city that provided the much needed clue to Sonal and his wife about the underlying theme of their new project. As luck would have it, Sonal subsequently decided to keep the focus of his new project all around the little kids and the seriously ill people. The idea of launching a unique Helpline service for people in need had already germinated in his mind, and the only hitch in between, was developing a customized technology to maintain the database of the users for giving shape to this novel concept. Says Sonal, “Once I knew what I was pursuing, I knew that the next step was to give shape to my plans and dream with the usage of modern day technological advancements and other related logistics. Since the end users were primarily the vulnerable lots who were prone to various sorts of unforeseen eventualities, I was convinced that I was looking for highly innovative, ingeniously designed utilities namely a panic button, wireless alarm panel and a remote control emergency button. While the GPS system is already in vogue since long, my target area or segment was different as it comprised seriously sick people like Alzheimer patients etc, and the little kids who were highly susceptible to kidnappings for extortion, ransom and for avenging personal enmity. Because the entire project entailed a huge expenditure, my father had natural apprehensions like any other dad. However seeing my keenness, desire and grit to take this project to its logical conclusion, my doting father consented to my project. I have no inhibition when I share that I invested all my lifetime savings that I had accumulated all these years on this ambitious project.”
Dr Rakesh khera : A Samaritan for all times
Unlike many young boys who feel fascinated to be a part of the Indian forces for the love of donning the “olive green”, the 12 year boy Rakesh Khera also nurtured a desire to be in the forces inspired by the gallantry tales of the Indian war legends. His family, on the other hand, was always averse to the idea of joining the Army from day one. As time passed by, and Khera became eligible to sit for the SSB examination, he cleared it with flying colours. Ironically his dream of being a part of the Indian forces couldn’t be realized since his doting and ailing grandmother refused to give her go ahead. Not the ones to go against the wishes of his elders, Khera with a heavy heart, relinquished all his childhood dreams. Nonetheless, he resolved to making a career in the field that provided him ample opportunity to render community service. Thus began Khera’s unending quest into the world of Alternate Medicine, Reiki and Astro- science from where he has never looked back. The young boy of yesteryears who had starry dreams of making it to one of the world’s best Army i.e. the ‘Indian Army’ is today better known as Dr. Rakesh Khera. Thanks to his years of perseverance and commitment, he has carved a niche for himself all these years by being an accomplished Astro Scientist, a Reiki Grand Master, a noted Gem Therapist. After completing B.Sc (Hons) in Maths, he followed it with a Post- Graduation in Sociology from Delhi. An in-depth scholar with a Post-Graduate Degree in Alternative Medicine and Gold Medalist in Naturopathy, he is Recipient of President’s Award from Late President Giani Zail Singh in recognition of his services in the field of Astrology. He has traveled round the Globe spreading awareness about these holistic fields and earning numerous Awards and Honors in the process. All these years, Dr Khera has not only cured many people who have sought his opinion, but more incredibly inspired them to lead a healthy, stress free lifestyle. An acclaimed Grand Reiki Master, his mantra lies in correcting the energy levels around a person and removing the negative energy blocks. He has always emphasized upon attaining the state of equilibrium when mind, body and soul are all in tandem. Says Dr Khera, “Once when a person walks into my clinic named ‘Oshadhi’, the visitor gets a patient hearing. It is more important to know the patient who has the disease than the disease the patient has. The temperament of individual is kept in mind, no particular line of treatment is forced upon the person, the decision is arrived at mutually. Thereafter, I decide upon the line of treatment, it could be Reiki, Acupressure, Gem Therapy, Homoeopathy, Tele therapy or a combination thereof with inputs from Astrology, Vastu, Feng-shui and Stress Management if need be. My specialized field is Reiki, Gem Therapy and Astro-Medicine. I diagnose the disease through Auroscan and Astro-diagnosis. My patients range from common cold, skin diseases, depression, Diabetes, blood pressure, blockage in the fallopian tubes, cervical spondylitis, knee pain, insomnia, psychosomatic patients, eye ailments etc. Holistic line of treatment provides a way of life that prevents occurrence of some of these ailments. Since positive approach is all about being happy, I make it a point to bring a smile and glow on those who come to me in suffering. Once this is achieved, half my job is already done as it helps me cure ailments of all my patients.” As far as the field of Astro science is concerned, it helps him in advising people about the right path they should choose in life. According to him, it saves a lot of precious time as people can sagaciously plan their future course of actions if they know what their stars are indicating. For instance, a student may be pointlessly wasting his time pursuing an engineering degree when his stars are indicating a career in Hotel Management. Dr Renu Kakkar who has worked with him since the past 20 years says, “Dr Khera possesses a unique way of giving solutions and heeling to people that come to him in pain. The untimely demise of his mother left him totally shattered, and though it left a deep void in him, he became all the more resolute when he realized how elated his mother felt when he played the redeemer’s role to perfection helping people cope with all sorts of ailments and diseases. He also counsels people on relationship issues.” Speaking about his special accomplishments, Dr Khera shares, “Since I couldn’t join the Army, I took up a job in a Bank and worked as an Officer for 15 years. I however, gave it up as I was attracted to the world of mysticism. I feel pleased to say that by the blessings of my Guru and Shakti, most of the people who came in suffering to me and were habitual drunkards, are today leading healthy lives, and have quit alcohol forever. That is unquestionably my most “special achievement” when those broken homes are again revived as a result of my guidance and direction. There’s no doubt that Allopathy works better in crisis cases, while in prolonged diseases, Alternate Medicine plays a significant role with no side effects at all. Every medical science has its own set of advantages. My work gives me reason to smile and feel content.”
Rita Gangwani: Sky is her limit
Says Rita, “I was often ridiculed for being short heighted right from my student days. Monikers like ‘mini road rollers’ and ‘pocket sized’ that I was regularly showered with, were extremely distressing. Blessing in disguise, these unholy bestowing’s ended making me mentally tough, and thus made me all the more determined to do something different and extra-ordinary. Besides academic achievements, the crowning moment came when I got selected as the first lady officer from Himachal Pradesh to join the MNS core in Indian Army. I was given a rousing reception by my Alma mater for bringing rich laurels to the institution. My joy knew no bounds when the same bunch of old comrades that once scorned me, gave me a standing ovation before a packed house. That was the time when I can ecstatically proclaim that the wheel came the full circle for me, and the rest as they say, is history. No wonder, good things indeed come in small packages. As an entrepreneur, I teach people how to lead extraordinary lives through the power of living in the moment. I have conducted workshops in prestigious corporate houses and Fortune 500 companies both nationally and internationally. As a trainer, I have more than 25 years of work experience to my credit wherein I have had the fortune of honing the skills and talents of countless students during the course of various workshops organized worldwide. The average age group of students in my workshops range from 20-65. There has been a drastic rise in the number of elderly citizens coming to me in seek of grooming their basic skills be it mother in laws or senior citizens aspiring to upgrade themselves so as to keep pace with the contemporary trends.”
Sneh Lata Garg: The world is her oyster
Sneh Lata Garg founded the Anmol Moti Mahila Society to provide free medical amenities to impoverished segments of the society
Following the marriage of her two daughters, homemaker Sneh Lata Garg experienced a natural void like most of the Indian mothers. Having spent some of the most golden years with her two loving apples of the eye, she knew she had to keep herself occupied in order to overcome the emotional vacuum of life which every daughter’s mother has to undergo. Thus happened the genesis of Anmol Moti Mahila Society, a non profit voluntary organisation committed to providing free medical amenities to impoverished segments of the society. Notable among them being free eye check-ups and distribution of artificial limbs. The other key focus of this organisation has all these years been on children education and their overall development. A charitable institution formed and run by Sneh Lata along with fellow members, Anmol Moti Mahila Society was conceived on Friendship Day in the year 2009 with only 10 members. Thanks to the remarkable wonders that this movement has accomplished, the Institute today boasts of 80 members. Cheers Pitampura based Sneh Lata, “Irrefutably my daughters were my inspiration at the starting point when I launched this organisation, however today after three substantial years of selfless service, I have no qualms to say that the people in distress are my source of strength and passion. Nothing beats the euphoria when we as a team of like minded comrades are able to bring a smile on the faces of despondent and those in suffering. My life acquired an altogether new dimension ever since I decided to dedicate myself to the service of the under privileged strata of society. With passage of time, my desire towards people in need has only grown manifold. Through this medium, I would like to applaud few of my close associates namely Kusum Mittal, Shashi Gupta, Anju Jain, Anshu Jain, Manju Singla, Kavita, Mala Gupta, Sunita and Poonam Mittal who have steadfastly supported this altruistic movement in all crucial phases.”
Anmol Moti Mahila Society members
Dynamic members of Anmol Moti Mahila Society
The never say never die lady with a missionary zeal, Sneh Lata has also been instrumental in organising eye donation camps where she has motivated people to pledge themselves for eye donation after death. Free eye check ups for senior citizens followed by distribution of spectacles free of cost have been a regular feature of these camps. She has perpetually believed that for bonafide issues such as Girl Child Education, Better upkeep of Goshalas and providence of good quality fodder for Cows etc., politics should be kept aside so that common consensus can be arrived at the earliest.
Sudha Sharma- A lifetime pledged to the cause of society
In her illustrious career, Sudha has played a facilitator’s role to perfection by bridging the gap between charitable dispensaries and the economically weaker sections of the society. Since a substantial percentage of people are unaware of such establishments, she has fiercely propagated the message across amongst the ignorant lots about these existent amenities. A frequent visitor to slums, she vociferously advocates on germane issues like cleanliness, hygiene and on how prevention is better than cure. Having played a pivotal role in organising copious of health camps for making the rural folks aware about the quintessential health do’s and don’ts, Sudha has been unrelenting and unstoppable in her altruistic mission.
Arjun Feroz Khan-Hero in reel and real life
A successful exporter, an acclaimed actor, feted singer, and above all, a die hard philanthropist, he has been in the selfless service of the downtrodden and the underprivileged segments since the last 20 years. And what really sets him apart from the rest is that he has never felt the impulse all these years to ever float an organisation, or a NGO for that matter. His altruistic acts of charity and nobility have always been low profile as a policy, but their everlasting impact and ramifications have aptly struck resonance with the distraught ones. From rendering motivational and comforting speeches to distributing blankets, food items, books and clothes among the destitute, forlorn old folks, blind kids and orphan girls, Arjun is a hero for all such hapless beings in real life too thanks to his humanitarian gestures from time to time. The three issues that he has been relentlessly pursuing since last many years have been ‘women empowerment’, addressing grievances of old age homes, and providing better amenities and lifestyle to the ‘girl child’. For his exemplary contribution in the field of social work, and especially women empowerment, he has been felicitated and honoured many a times. Shares the man himself with his usual flamboyant panache, “Life’s been extremely kind to me, and this is what has roused me to reciprocate the same compassion with so many distressed beings around me. To begin with, I was appalled to see the repression of women who had to simply bear the brunt of their spouses when they opposed their mindless drunken ways. It takes pride to share that I addressed one such group in a slum in Delhi, and advised them to show a collective show of strength when their spouses came home in an inebriated state. The strategy worked wonders, and bolstered me to continue with my mission unstintingly. In my interactive meetings with large groups of orphan girls, I sing, dance with them, and also inspire them by sharing how I eventually landed the role of Arjun for myself in an extremely intense competition that saw me pitted against as many as twenty three thousand candidates in various rounds of auditions and screen tests. The moral of the story being that if I could do it, so could these girls, whom I can safely vouch for, seeing the great promise in their eyes. Since most of them are my daughter’s age, I feel an extra sense of onus on me to ensure that they get the right direction and guidance so as to help them stand on their feet, and make a mark in life. Such precious lives seriously deserve to lead a worthy life, and I am determined to realize this dream. I have to be in Mumbai for work related assignments, however my heart is in Delhi where my daughter stays. Since home is where the heart is, I would prefer calling Delhi my home, all the more also because the city has constantly stirred me to remain connected with the people in need and despair.”
Living a dream of one billion...
Ever since a country of one billion was introduced to the fascinating world of internet or the web magic, it’s been one giant leap for mankind. With these astounding new age inventions, life for the common man has transformed into a whole new world of exciting dream come true options. A ‘web portal’ comprising a detailed info on various significant issues alongside relevant breaking news and other key segments such as online forums and social networking is undeniably, one of the most distinctive usage being proffered by the web. Albeit, the print and the broadcast media have an enviable edge over other forms of media, cyber media’ meaning the online medium too enjoys its exclusive merits over the electronic as well as the print media depending upon the area, its gentry and other relatable factors such as the strategic significance of the place to which a particular web portal caters or primarily focuses on. The core purpose of a web portal is to help the millions of internet users all over the globe draw advantage through the data and information provided on it. One of the main advantages that a vertical or a horizontal portal has over the electronic and the print media is in context of the interminable aspect, which in simpler terms means that the data on a web portal can always be accessed at merely a click of the mouse, or the button unlike in the case of electronic, where the image alongside the information remains for only a brief stint. In case of newspapers too, the probability of news preservation is relatively less when compared with the information on the website owing to the fragileness of a newspaper. The other manifested and notable merit that a web forum holds over others is the quintessentially pivotal option of having information and news constantly updated and modified in order to keep the portal abreast with the latest, and in sync with the pace of breaking news.
Gajanan Mali...Living a dream of one billion....
Whilst talking about the countless benefits of web, websites, and their indispensable impact on people’s lives today, one is compelled to bring the indefatigable, Gajanan Mali (A Post Graduate in Commerce and Economics) into this invigorating discussion. A simpleton from Kolhapur, Mali immigrated to the capital city Delhi way back in the 90s, and since 2001 has been happily settled in Greater Noida which he now calls his second home after Kolhapur sans any qualms. At the very onset, Mali was vexed of how the twin cities of Noida and Greater Noida lagged behind in terms of the “quintessential cultural vibrancy” despite possessing every vital component of a modern day conurbation.
....Giving away prizes at St Joseph's school
Elucidating more, the staunch believer of social networking - Mali points, “When I shifted my base to Greater Noida in 2001, it pained to see a marvelous cosmopolitan city like Noida and Greater Noida being devoid of any vivacious cultural fiber. Hailing from a lineage of go-getters and achievers, I knew destiny had a role especially carved for me, to bridge the gap between like minded denizens of this affluent, yet dormant city. Being sound with the intriguing ways of the web technology only helped me in my mission. Furthermore, I was certain that the best possible way to bring masses on one forum would be through the remarkable medium of a stimulating web portal. Thus, genesis of attachowk.com and parichowk.com happened, which in the present day scenario has become the gateway, and in literary sense, the ‘lifeline’ of Noida and Greater Noida. My sole objective has been to connect people hailing from different walks of life irrespective of any divides so as to help them collectively address the grave, day to day issues of concern, and for raising the overall quality of life. Moreover, life’s practically worthless in societies and habitats divested of linkages, amity and camaraderie which is why I have made a sincere strive for forging an everlasting bond amongst city denizens. Although I have miles to go, the cheering factor is that the launching has been incredibly wonderful. People have taken extremely positively to my concept of staying connected through these two portals primarily because there is so much in the offing for the end user such as a city overview coupled with latest happenings, press releases, public utility directories comprising a comprehensive database, online forums, useful links, blogs by senior media personalities, video archives, photo and video today section, who’s who list etc to complete the full circle.”
....Speaking at Seminar......
The overzealous and philanthropic facet of Mali’s personality has earned him the sobriquet “Cultural Ambassador” from his coterie of special friends, colleagues, and relations. Be it any occasion, rhyme or reason, Mali epitomizes ‘24x7 connectivity’, a fact duly corroborated by the endless number of SMSes he keeps shooting off to his close friends all day long. The logic is simple to comprehend, as Mali puts it candidly, “Messages are just a way for remaining linked and hooked to our loved ones amidst the frantic lifestyles. It takes pride to state that as a team, we have organized numerous Health Camps, Blood Donation camps, Traffic Green Card Camps, Environment Quizzes, Cultural Programs, Voter list Camps, Voter Identity Cards camps, Seminars.” Aditya Ghildyal: A visionary with a missionary zeal
A highly educated corporate professional, an acclaimed activist, a marvellous ambassador of peace and culture, feted anchor, voracious speaker, die hard philanthropist, and above all, ‘a great human being and a friend to be’... well this is how this sterling personality ideally needs to be described and introduced as...
Addressing garthering on parichowk.com Anniversary......22nd October 2008
As an iconic role model, Aditya has mentored myriads of talented freshers and youngsters on the threshold of their career. His take is incredibly laudable. “As a God fearing simpleton from Village Dang, Srinagar, Pauri Garwhal, it’s perpetually been my earnest desire to ensure that the precious talent of the city does not go futile or untapped. To be candid, it continually ached me as a young graduate when I spectacled metro cities blessed with all privileges and opportunities, too crippled with the scourge of unemployment. As expected, joblessness paved the way to unprecedented levels of frustration and angst. This proved to be the turning point since I knew destiny beckoned me to pledge myself unconditionally towards the field of HR. As a result, I ensued my B.Com, L.L.B Degree (Lucknow, University) with a MBA in HR from IMT, Ghaziabad. Hands on my heart, I take pride in sharing that in all these years of my illustrious career, I have ardently strived to mentor youngsters and job seekers that come in touch with me sans any vested interests or inclination. A brief one on one enables me to vet their merits and shortcoming following which I guide them with the apt solution. Nothing more gratifying and blissful than being the cause of happiness for youngsters when they land themselves a good opening with my little advice”, shares Aditya. Try conversing with him on ‘recession and diminishing job openings’, and you are bound to get chastised for sparing a thought on such bunkum issues. For someone who believes in solutions and not problems, Aditya has steadfastly asserted on numerous occasions that there are plethora of job options for the qualified, meritorious and deserving candidates. Laments Aditya, “Why do we get going only when the going gets tough? Even after 64 years of independence, we fail to live up to the ideals of peace, harmony and brotherhood. As neighbours and fellow residents, we hardly do anything when we see them in distress. Let us live up to the ideals of Diwali every year by spreading love, harmony and peace all around 365 days a year. Let there be no space for any hatred and malice. Let us light all diyas and candles in unison so that our bonding becomes everlasting and eternal. Why do we get together only during silent candlelight marches in seek of justice and turbulence? Why do we have to be constantly reminded that the real charm of Diwali is in living like true Samaritans which is by helping people in pain, sorrow and distress. Let us rekindle our lost love for our fellow neighbours by celebrating Diwali with all of them. Coming to the issue of women empowerment, we need to be reminded that reverence towards women is equivalent to worshipping the Almighty. Such is the quintessential power of women that they can move many a mountains and inspire ordinary armies to glorious victories over mighty, Machiavellian enemies. Not to forget, the ageless proverbial, “Behind every man’s success, there is a woman.”
Honouring Supdt. of Police Shri R K Verma .22nd October 2009
Prior to being an integral part of the New Holland Fiat India Pvt Ltd family, Greater Noida, for the past 13 years, Aditya has worked with DCM DAEWOO, DAEWOO MOTORS UP, India. His leadership traits and astounding visionary skills propelled him to being nominated as the President of AGNI (Association of Greater Noida Industries). This appointment has entailed him to play a pivotal role in Safety & Security, Water, Electricity, Labour, Housing etc. He has been relentlessly undertaking the key Uttar Pradesh causes concerning the welfare of HR Industrial Units in Greater Noida much to the delight of all his colleagues and well wishers. Another feather in the cap for the mercurial Aditya has been his immaculately organised, path breaking Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives that have done a world of good to the lives of many a despondents as well as members of the downtrodden and under privileged strata of the society. That his endeavours have more often than not been emulated in policy as well as in implementation by other leading corporate houses of the city speaks volumes about the stature of this man. An issue that has eternally been close to his heart and soul is that of the ‘Girl Child’. Taking a leaf from the books of his forefathers, he has pledged himself for the noble cause and mission of providing the young girls from the minority sections of the society with decent amenities like ensuring their Education ensued with vocational training and helping them get jobs to subsequently getting them married. For efficiently organising and streamlining the day to day affairs of this humane cause, an organisation named ‘Shikhar’ was conceived by few like minded friends. Upon persistence, Aditya assumed the charge of the Vice Presidents, a responsibility that entails him to do a lot of running about for turning ideas, intent and passion into reality and concrete results. His work involves rendering motivational and comforting speeches, distributing blankets, food items, books and clothes among the destitute, forlorn old folks, blind kids and orphan girls. For his remarkable contribution in the field of social work, and especially women empowerment, he has been felicitated and honoured many a times. That he is a man of all seasons and reasons is a well known veracity, classic instance being his affiliations with myriads of prestigious concerns. He is an Advisor for attachowk.com (Gateway of Noida), parichowk.com (Gateway of Greater Noida) and vijaychowk.com (Employment Exchange of India). Then he is the Vice President of INDIAN JOURNALIST FOR INDIAN PEOPLE which has ‘Peace and Harmony’ as its guiding motto, and comprises a perfect blend of the Media fraternity, professionals from diverse fields and the Corporate biggies. Then he is serving as the Board of Director for CENTRE FOR CONFLICT RESOLUTION AND HUMAN SECURITY. The members of this origination are involved in organizing regular meetings, seminars, conferences where in eminent speakers brainstorm on how common citizens can play a pioneering role in resolving ‘grave conflicting issues and situations’ that if unrestrained, impose a serious threat to the well being of our great nation. As a proactive member of the SARVA DHARMA SANSAD (PARLIAMENT OF RELIGION), Aditya has played an noteworthy role in the field of education for the under privileged and school drop outs. In the Uttrakhand Movement, Aditya gave a call alongside other members for the Jail Bharo Movement in 1994 at Srinagar, Pauri Garwal. He also happens to be on the Core Organising Team of Shilpostav 2009, Noida. The phenomenon known Aditya Ghidyal indubitably wears many hats, with the most momentous being his project named ‘Shikhar’ which irrefutably has catapulted him to the zenith implying the top most summit or the peak.
No wonder, the never say never die missionary lives truly up to the connotation of his first name ‘Aditya’ which means ‘Lord of the Sun’. Like the ever blazing, radiating sun, this man too is no less an ‘inferno’ when it comes to making his way through all encumbrances, and life’s incessant challenges, consequently snatching victory from the jaws of defeat. For all his accomplishments and tireless efforts, he deserves an all out standing ovation!!
Nature incessantly inspires this child prodigy
Come November this year, and Aadil Anand of the prestigious Vasant Valley School, Vasant Kunj, will be turning ten. While he may seem to be just another bubbly school going lad, this is precisely where one needs to draw the lines, for it has been his sheer artistic ingenious that differentiates him from the rest. Quite aptly, this is why describing him as a ‘child prodigy’ would alone do justice to his astounding versatility. Born into a family of art connoisseurs, creativity flows naturally when this young boy gets going with his painting brush, water colours and canvass. A die hard fan of famous American landscape painter Thomas Cole, Aadil has already displayed his prowess and has a definite mission to make a mark for himself in the big glamorous Art world. While kids of his age would normally aspire evince a keen penchant towards donning the olive green or becoming iconic sportspersons, Aadil remains consistent about his final destination.
The perfect cultural ambassador
The perfect cultural ambassador Retired Lt. Col. Ashok Sharma is a fauji with a distinction for whom life in the ‘Olive Green’ shall always remain an everlasting saga to cherish for times to come. It provided him a unique opportunity for learning, experimenting and exploring life from myriads of diverse quarters. Besides his father who retired as a Lt Col, his maternal as well as paternal grandfather did not only don the revered uniform, but also happened to be a war heroes. Well fauj has surely been a tradition in Ashok’s family.
Shares the man with his charismatic smile, “My family has always been a perennial source of inspiration for me. Especially, my grand fathers who got duly rewarded for their heroism for having done the country proud with their dare devil acts. I have always strived to imbibe the exemplary virtues of these two iconic personalities in every possible facet of my life. By God’s grace, I feel fortunate to have contributed my bit by playing a key role in maintaining supply chain during the crucial Kargil war against Pakistan.” An Economics (Hons) graduate, Ashok has always been an all rounder and a multifaceted personality gifted with enormous talent and versatility. A versatile theatre actor and orator, he got voted as the best NCC Cadet. Besides, he is an accomplished harmonium player, and a script writer. During the time when he was managing life It was his sheer creativity and undying passion for music and creative writing that not only sustained him, but actually coasted him past the shore in the most daunting of times when he was miles away from family. Over the years, fauj has instilled in him the perfect balancing act between professional and the creative life. Ashok always craved to be a cultural ambassador for his country for helping bridge the great divide’s with other nations by consolidating mutual bonds through cultural ties.
Supporting him at every tread in this crucial phase of life has been his better half Sanjana who migrated to USA on a cultural exchange visa few years ago solely for realizing his dream. As a couple, they not only aspired to promote Indian art and culture overseas, but also envisioned to accomplish far reaching realms in the field of Jugalbandi that is all about fusion of two diverse cultures. Points the indefatigable fauji, “India with its rich cultural mosaic has always been the cynosure of everyone’s eye and we need to seriously realize that strong cultural bonds can not only lead to overall economic prosperity of nations, but also helps in making the world a better place to live in. During my frequent visits to U.S.A, I have widely studied their art and cultural mores.” The turning point of his life came in Rishikesh when he received blessings from Sri Sri Ravi Shankar for becoming an Art of Living Teacher in appreciation of his ‘Art of Living’ courses that he organized for students and staff in Provisions Academy, North Carolina where his wife, Sanjana is enrolled as a Science Teacher. Ashok has conducted numerous “Nav Chetna Shivirs for soldiers in various army units that are programs imparting simple breathing exercises and meditation to participants for combating stress. In addition, he was also amongst the 78 fortunate participants in the prestigious management course at IIM- Bangalore comprising officers from all the tri services. Albeit he’s now moved to Sanford, USA, to reunite with his family, the missionary zeal and flame in him remains which is precisely why he’s always striving to be the perfect cultural ambassador for his great motherland. His yoga teachings are a great source of rejuvenation for the young brigade. Not only is he a vibrant participant in the cultural extravaganzas, but goes that extra mile to leave an everlasting mark epitomizing the rich Indian culture, ethos and its astounding legacy. As for the era gone by, he cheers, “Given an opportunity to begin life afresh, I would love to be re-born as a soldier. Once a fauji, always a fauji. And let me state, nothing beats the spirit of donning the uniform for your country.” Vijayeta and Rahul Chandola- Elegance personified
![]() Rahul and Vijayeta had dated for good eight years before taking the final plunge and choosing to tie the nuptials. Henceforth, the remarkable chemistry between the two ensured not only smooth coordination and execution of their projects, but also unprecedented success for the two passionate soulmates. Both are members of the Institute of Interior Designers and vibrantly participate in key seminars, symposiums and events related to their profession. For his outstanding contribution and accomplishments, Rahul was honoured with a special award in USA by American Express.
Socializing has been a vital factor in getting good business volumes for this ‘fairy tale couple’ who staunchly believe that sincerity and passion alone hold the key to success in the professional world.
RAGHAV DATTA-Zindagi na milegi dobara
He may be all of 19, but that does not stop him from dreaming and aspiring big time. The immensely versatile Raghav Datta, a hardcore Delhite is surely a revelation, and someone you bump into only once in a while. The handsome hunk developed an instant fancy towards playing guitar some six years ago, and since then there’s been no looking back for him. He surely enjoys and revels in the adulation he receives after his performances at various forums in schools, college, malls, clubs and restaurants. While guitar has been first love, he also happens to be a vibrant crusader. In the first instance, the two passions of his life may seem poles apart, but Raghav can instantly sketch the great parallel between the two apparently diverse fields.Says the indefatigable guitarist, “They are both ‘performing arts’ for if you play good guitar, then you’d always like to flaunt it by performing before a packed audience. Similarly, if you’ve resolved to set the flaws in the prevalent system straight, you need to set a precedent and go public with your ideology, which is again a form of ‘performing arts’. I feel strongly about certain pertinent issues which is perhaps why destiny blessed me with a ‘skill’ that could add more wings and feathers to my desire for turning things around me. Though I missed out seeing the two most powerful icons of our country in their prime, namely Raj Kapoor and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, I have always admired them for their trend setting accomplishments. One being an unrivalled showman of his times, and the other being a voracious speaker who was best at alluring crowds in unprecedented numbers. The beauty in both the cases being the elan with which these two super men went about executing their usual chores.” That Raghav is a gifted boy is a well known veracity amongst his close coterie of friends and relations. Being the only child of his parents, he has quite a task up his sleeves, chiefly because he duly realizes that he shall always be the cynosure and centre point of their attention. All the more, since he hails from a reputed lineage, and because he staunchly believes ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’, thus connoting that whatever needs to be accomplished, has to be done so in this lifetime”.
The lows and the highs of life turned him towards guitar which became the perfect vent for his feelings and frustrations. His band named “Coffee Makers” is quite a rage among the youngster brigade of town. During his concerts, the cheering crowds does raise the adrenaline, but he is candid to voice that contentment would come only when he has been successful in linking his music to the social crusades that he has undertaken. He feels naturally drawn towards the ecology, greens and fitness regimes which precisely explain his strong penchant for carving playing grounds, neatly laid out jogging and walking tracks.
The need of the hour is to involve youngsters into the RWA in order to infuse new thrust and momentum to the existent pace of civic affairs. I am ready to spare time for the social activities, sans any avarice for a plum RWA post. It is distressing to note that the root cause of most of the modern day life threatening diseases and ailments is due to a sedentary lifestyle and incessant stress levels. Well, what does one really do when you don’t have good greens and parks in your neighborhood? The onus is on the local inhabitants to put up a combined effort for developing playing fields and walking tracks out of the existent piece of public land. Being the songwriter of my band, the lyrics of my new song will convey the quintessential significance of fitness and greens. The legendary Billie Joe Armstrong is a perennial source of inspiration for me”, points Raghav. No wonder, the man means serious business, and has his eyes set for many pathbreaking goals! Email ID coolrags_d7@yahoo.co.in
STRAIGHT TALK BY NARESH SHARMA - Astro Consultant
Agra and Noida are the two loves of my life, the former being my birth city, and the latter for giving me boundless adulation and recognition from its inhabitants hailing from all walks of life. While it’s pretty easy to describe others, the challenge arises when it comes to self description. Nevertheless, I shall strive to make an honest and sincere endeavour apropos the same. I am an entrepreneur, counselor, activist, astrologer, numerologist, Vaastu and Feng Shui expert, gem therapist, in short a multifaceted personality as my friends define me. Albeit, it feels good to be showered with compliments for donning many hats, I feel more elated when people hail me as a ‘philanthropist’ since nothing seems to be more gratifying or enthralling than to indulge in selfless service. In today’s hullabaloo and turbulent times, we hardly spare time for altruistic missions. It’s not the lack of good intent that stops us from indulging in noble deeds, but the poor time management skills that prevents us from being the redeemers to hapless beings. So as I describe my different personas, I would clearly accentuate that I am extremely keen to establish my identity as an exemplary Samaritan keeping in mind the colossal suffering engulfing our world. I have always played my role in mitigating the grievances of people that come in touch with me through counseling and patient hearing. As an astro guide, I consider myself successful only when I have been able to generate a smile on the face of those flocking to my place in sheer distress. I have saved many a marriages from getting dissolved. A good expert astrologer is one who not only precisely forecasts the future, but is also able to suggest remedies for coping with certain untoward eventualities of life. Meditation according to me is the best panacea in any turmoil of life, and this is why I advise regular mediation to those reposing faith on me.
By far, as a professional astro consultant, I have reason to feel content with my achievements till date primarily because my clinic is visited by people from far flung places. If I were one to enlist and attribute the various factors leading to my success, they would be Almighty’s blessings, my genuineness, thorough knowledge of my subject, and last but not the least, endless passion for the profession. Contact Mob: 09808385673/ 8006949607. |



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