Governor Punjab Releases Pictorial Calendar 2026 depicting theme “Punjab: Where Culture, Heritage & Nature Breathes”

 

Calendar 2026 has been compiled by State Information Commissioner Punjab

Chandigarh, December 31, 2025: Today the Hon’ble Governor Punjab, Gulab Chand Kataria, released the pictorial Calendar 2026 for the State of Punjab depicting the theme “Punjab: Where Culture, Heritage & Nature Breathes” at Punjab Lok Bhavan, Chandigarh. The calendar, which has been meticulously conceptualized and compiled by State Information Commissioner, Punjab, Harpreet Sandhu, presents a vivid and comprehensive visual narrative of Punjab’s rich cultural heritage, sacred religious legacy, vibrant agricultural ethos, and pristine natural landscapes.

While releasing the calendar, the Governor Punjab acknowledged the meaningful efforts done by State Information Commissioner, Punjab Harpreet Sandhu, for undertaking this significant initiative to promote Punjab and remarked that this visual documentation will be of immense interest to create cultural consciousness, strengthening the bond with heritage, and projecting Punjab’s unique identity on a wider platform throughout 2026.

State Information Commissioner Punjab Harpreet Sandhu said that he has compiled the Calendar 2026 for the State of Punjab with the aim to serve as a source of inspiration for citizens, visitors, and particularly the youth to reconnect with Punjab’s glorious legacy and to value its enduring relationship with nature and agriculture.

Curated under the patronage of the Governor Punjab, each month of the calendar reflects a harmonious blend of art, heritage, agriculture, spirituality, and natural serenity which are showcased through evocative visuals that define the soul of Punjab.The Calendar carries a meaningful message of the Governor of Punjab. 

Notably, the Vice Chancellors of Guru Nanak Dev University (Amritsar), Punjab Agricultural University, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University (Ludhiana) and Punjabi University (Patiala) have endorsed their acknowledgment for the calendar symbolically marking a commitment towards celebrating, preserving, and promoting Punjab’s cultural, natural, and spiritual heritage.

Parents Are a Child's First and Most Influential Role Models, So They Need to Lead by Example : Dr Monica B. Sood

 

Dr Monica B Sood Addresses Audience at School’s Annual Function

Chandigarh, December 26, 2025: State Convenor, Intellectual Cell, BJP Chandigarh, Dr. Monica B. Sood graced the annual function of Joyland Montessori School, Sec 38 - ‘Yeh Gulistan Hamara’ as the Chief Guest. The event took place at the auditorium of Rani Laxmi Bai Mahila Bhawan, Sector 38, Chandigarh. The colourful performances by the young children beautifully showcased India’s cultural diversity and national unity.

Dr. Monica B. Sood inaugurated the annual function and later addressed the gathering, comprising of members of the school management, teachers, parents, and a large number of students

While addressing parents, Dr. Monica B. Sood stated that children learn not from what is said, but from the behaviour and daily habits of their parents. She said, “Parents are the first and most influential role models for their children, so they need to lead  by example. Children emulate parents, so if parents display ethical conduct in their daily lives, children will also follow suit. Parents need to do good deeds, this will help their kids  grow up into upright citizens with well rounded personalities."

Mobile phones and television are increasingly becoming obstacles to children’s mental and emotional development, she said. She urged parents to give children their time and communicate with them.

Dr. Monica further said, “India is rapidly moving towards becoming the world’s third-largest economy and the country offers high-quality education, modern research facilities, and global-level opportunities. Children should therefore be encouraged to pursue education in India and link their talent with the nation’s development. This would strengthen the country’s intellectual capital and ensure that financial resources remain within the country.”

She added that innovation, research, and entrepreneurship led by youth in India are key to achieving the vision of a self-reliant and strong nation.

Dr. Monica praised Joyland Montessori School for effectively portraying India’s cultural diversity through the programme. Crediting Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel for the nation’s unity, she said that his visionary leadership and determination brought hundreds of princely states together. The strong foundation of national unity laid by Sardar Patel has enabled India to emerge as an integrated, powerful nation, rich in cultural diversity.

Dr. Monica described children as the future of the nation and said that every child is unique. She encouraged children to remain curious, ask questions, and never stop dreaming. She added that mistakes are a natural part of the learning process and children should move forward with confidence.

‘Keesha Sufiyana Live’ Performance on Christmas Awes Audience

 

Chandigarh, December 27, 2025: The warmth of music and festive cheer filled the Chandigarh Club on Christmas as the grand ‘Keesha Sufiyana Live Christmas Bash’ unfolded, creating an unforgettable celebration. The special musical performance received an overwhelming response from the audience, whose enthusiasm and applause made the event a resounding success.

Independent singer Keesha, renowned for her soulful voice and remarkable vocal versatility, shared the stage for the first time with her Sufi–Bollywood band ‘Keesha Sufiyana’. This debut performance deeply touched the hearts of the audience. With experience of over 200 live performances across India and abroad, Keesha made the evening truly memorable with her powerful and emotive rendition.

During the nearly one-and-a-half-hour-long performance, Keesha presented a captivating blend of around 15 Sufi and Bollywood songs. She mesmerized the audience with her signature Sufiyana renditions of popular numbers such as “Yeh Jo Halka Halka Suroor,” “Dil Jani,” “Sajda,” “Tumhein Dillagi Bhool Jani Padegi,” “Biba Sada Dil Mod De,” “Haniyan,” “Kamli,” and “Tere Bin Nahin Lagda Dil.” Her energetic stage presence, soul-stirring vocals, and passionate delivery transformed the atmosphere into a vibrant musical celebration.

Adding further significance to the occasion, Star Biz India also celebrated its 25 years of a successful journey. Star Biz India managed the artist coordination for the event, while the program was hosted by Chandigarh Club with support from HDFC Bank.

Sharing her excitement about future plans, Keesha Sufiyana hinted at taking her musical journey forward to various cities across India as well as to international stages. 

This Christmas celebration in Chandigarh is sure to remain etched in the memories of music lovers for a long time.

Shaina Mittal holds fundraiser for mental health awareness

 

   

Chandigarh, December 21, 2025: Ex-Carmelite Shaina Mittal, an 18-year-old city resident, has embarked on a powerful mission to help youngsters facing mental health issues. Her initiative stems from her own experiences while studying in the United States, where she endured loneliness and anxiety and decided to return to Chandigarh. Here she channelled her energy into entrepreneurship and at just 18, she established Reveliq Events, an event management company.

 

Alongside her journey of entrepreneurship, she always cherished the desire to create conversations on mental health and help youth enduring some or the other mental health issue. Her passion towards achieving this objective made her take a decision to put together a unique Christmas Fundraiser for the cause of mental health awareness.

 

 “I organized a Christmas Fundraiser in collaboration with Vatsal Chaya Trust, a respected non-governmental organization working for underprivileged children and women. Under this initiative titled ‘Sakushal’, meaning well-being, funds will be collected through the event for the cause of ‘mental health’. On covering operational expenses, the remaining proceeds will be donated to Vatsal Chaya Trust to support mental health awareness programmes,” said Shaina.

 

She added, “As part of the year-long ‘Sakushal Project’, I will work closely with Sangeeta Vardhan, the Founder of Vatsal Chaya Trust, and we will conduct a series of podcasts, webinars and awareness sessions—both online and offline across schools and colleges. These sessions will address several mental health issues relevant to today’s youth.”

 

Shaina highlights that young adults today are excessively exposed to social media and live in a fast-paced world where instant gratification has become the norm. The element of struggle and resilience often takes a backseat, partly due to over-comforting environments created unknowingly by parents.

 

In reply to a question, she said: “Teenagers today are constantly under pressure to look perfect, achieve instantly and never fail. I’ve lived through that pressure, and I want to tell them that it is okay to struggle. It is okay to slow down. My journey taught me that courage is not the absence of fear. It is choosing to move forward despite it.”

 

The young entrepreneur used her understanding of event planning to curate the fundraiser, bringing together 10 diverse stalls featuring food, lifestyle brands and essential products and services. “The exhibition is designed not only as a community experience but also as a platform to start meaningful conversations on mental health,” added Shaina.

 

The event featured live musical performances by various bands — adding vibrancy to the cause. A spirited social night with popular DJs was also organised to enhance community engagement and bring people together in support of the initiative.

 

The fund raiser received a corporate push too with real estate organisation VRS, Alchemist Hospital, Kandhari Beverages, Nik Bakers and Kraftsi lending support   to the noble cause.

 

 

 

‘Udaan 2.0’ a Social Inclusion Initiative Organised by NGO Cubs Club Concludes

 

Punjab Governor Felicitates Top Tricity Schools Whose Students Took Part in Art Exhibition for Benefit of Underprivileged Children

Students from Society’s Underprivileged Section Show Talent in Cultural Performances & Storytelling

“‘Udaan 2.0’ was designed to bring children from two different society-segments, privileged & the underprivileged closer,” Meenu Prashar, Founder, Cubs Club.

Chandigarh, Dec 13, 2025: ‘Udaan 2.0’, a unique two-stage initiative organised by Non-Governmental Organisation(NGO) Cubs Club in association with the Navjivan Health Service, concluded with holding of activities under 'Udaan. 2.0’s' stage II, wherein a felicitation ceremony-cum-cultural show was held at the Auditorium of Art Gallery and Museum, Sector 10, Chandigarh. In the concluding stage of ‘Udaan 2.0’ the Chief Guest was Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria Hon’ble Governor, Punjab, and UT Administrator. Dr Monica B. Sood, Convenor, Intellectual Cell, BJP Chandigarh State, who’s organisation Navjivan Health Service is supporting Cubs Club’s endeavour was the Guest of Honour.

Meenu Prashar, Founder, Cubs Club said, “The activities under ‘Udaan 2.0’ were designed to bring children from two different sections - privileged students studying in well-known schools of tricity and economically weaker students being supported by schools for the underprivileged, closer.”  

Notably, in the stage I of ‘Udaan 2’ - an art exhibition of paintings by students of top schools of tricity and nearby areas was held at the Sec 17 underpass. This was an effort to raise funds for improvement of infrastructure of schools giving education to underprivileged students.

Meenu Prashar said further, “’Udaan 2.0’ was aimed to be an inclusive platform to create a powerful two-way learning environment. Children from the privileged segment participating in the activities gained valuable lessons in empathy, humility, and social responsibility by interacting with underprivileged children. At the same time, the economically weaker section children observed and learnt from their peers—gaining exposure, polishing their skills, and understanding how discipline and confidence can enhance their performance.”

The Governor felicitated representatives of the schools whose students had put up paintings for the noble cause. Those feted included representatives from Pine Grove School, Dharampur; Pine Grove School, Subathu; ATS Valley School, Derabassi; Chitkara International School, Chandigarh; Amity International School, Mohali; St. Soldier’s School, Panchkula; Stepping Stones School, Chandigarh; Guru Nanak Public School, Chandigarh; and Ankur Sr. Sec. School, Chandigarh. The winners of the painting exhibition were also awarded.

It was informed that the funds collected at the art exhibition will directly go to schools that need to upgrade infrastructure. These include some needy schools adopted by Cubs Club, namely - Bright Sparks School; Greenwood School, Kharar; ATS Daycare, Mohali; Government School, Togan; Government School, Kandala and the Developing Indigenous Resources (DIR) centre at Naya Gaon.

The students of these schools also presented a vibrant cultural showcase. They displayed exceptional talent in dances and story-telling sessions.

Meenu added, “’Udaan 2.0’ also provided a dignified platform for underprivileged children to showcase their immense talent. Too often, their abilities remain hidden simply because they lack opportunities. Through this event, Cubs Club strived to make these children visible to society, enabling the community to recognize their strengths, encourage their aspirations, and support their journey toward education and empowerment.”

Meenu thanked some schools who have been helping the NGO by provision of surp…

Bachpan Play School Zirakpur Hosts 12th Annual Day: "Smile and Sparkles - The Colours of India"

 

Chandigarh, December 13, 2025: Bachpan Play School, Patiala Road, Zirakpur celebrated its 12th Annual Day at Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration, Sector 26, Chandigarh  showcasing India's cultural richness through vibrant performances.

The event began with the lighting of the lamp, followed by stunning Kali Tandav, Haryanvi dance, Rajasthani dance, Lavni, and more breathtaking acts by the children.

Parents enjoyed fun games, while top students received trophies and certificates for academic excellence. The Director of the School Dr. Mukta Verma  addressed the gathering on holistic development. She also announced the opening of her new school Crestwood International School, Zirakpur. Parents were served  refreshments during the function. It was a sparkling, fun-filled day! The Annual Day closed with vote of thanks by the Principal.

Bachpan Play School Zirakpur is a Leading preschool chain fostering creativity and growth.

ClearMedi Bahra Multispeciality Hospital Unveils State-of-The Art Cath Lab

“At ClearMedi We Focus on ‘Treatment First’ & The Payment Aspect Comes Only After Proper Treatment Is Given,” Cdr Navneet Bali, ED & CEO

“The Technology Integrated into This Cath Lab Allows Us to Perform Complex Cardiac Procedures with Enhanced Safety & Precision,” Dr. K.K. Talwar, Director – Cardiology

“Our 24×7 model ensures heart attack cases are treated immediately,” Dr. Rohit Mody, Director – Cardiac Sciences

Mohali, Dec 10, 2025: ClearMedi Bahra Multispeciality Hospital, Kharar - Kurali Road (Mohali), has unveiled a state-of-the-art Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory, Cath Lab. The facility will offer advanced, precision-driven cardiac care and emergency heart procedures within the region.

The inauguration of the Cath Lab also witnessed a press conference by key leadership from ClearMedi which included - Cdr Navneet Bali, Executive Director & CEO – ClearMedi  Healthcare; Dr. Rohit Mody, Director – Cardiac Sciences, ClearMedi Bahra Multispeciality Hospital; Dr. K.K. Talwar, Director – Cardiology of the hospital; Dr Mandeep Singh, Interventional Cardiologist and Mr. Vivaan Singh Gill - Facility Director.

While addressing media, Cdr Navneet Bali, ED & CEO, said: “At ClearMedi our motto is Everyone, Everywhere, Equally and in keeping with this, we focus on ‘Treatment First’ & the payment aspect comes only after proper treatment is given. We never ask for money when a patient comes in an emergency or even otherwise as is done in most corporate hospitals, our focus is on immediate treatment of the patient and all other things come post this.”

Talking about the Cath Lab he said, “Heart disease remains one of the leading health challenges, and with infrastructure like the State-of-The Art Cath Lab, ClearMedi is dedicated to bringing global cardiac solutions to Punjab with transparency, quality, and timely intervention.”

The Cath Lab is equipped with next-generation imaging and digital cardiac mapping systems designed to provide accurate diagnosis and faster recovery, aligned with global treatment standards.

Dr. K.K. Talwar, Director – Cardiology, said: “The technology integrated into this Cath Lab allows us to perform complex cardiac procedures with enhanced safety and precision. Our aim is to deliver cardiac excellence that matches leading national and international heart centres.” Notably, Dr Talwar is a Padma Bhushan awardee and also a Former Head of Cardiology, AIIMS New Delhi and PGIMER Chandigarh.

It is pertinent to state that the advanced Cath Lab enables real-time diagnosis and cardiac interventions including - Coronary Angiography & Angioplasty (Stent Placement), Primary Angioplasty for Heart Attack (Available 24×7), Pacemaker, ICD (Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator) & CRT (Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy) Device Implantation, Valvuloplasty & Peripheral Vascular Procedures, Complex Rhythm Disorders Management, and Cardiac Monitoring & Precision-Guided Diagnostics. The hospital is now equipped with technology, expertise & 24×7 emergency cardiac support.

Highlighting emergency care readiness, Dr. Rohit Mody, Director – Cardiac Sciences, said: “Our 24×7 model ensures heart attack cases are treated immediately with primary angioplasty, significantly lowering the risk of long-term damage and complications.”

With 24-hour specialist availability, emergency response protocols, and rapid stabilization capabilities, the facility is prepared to treat all types of heart emergencies within the golden hour.

Dr Mandeep Singh, Interventional Cardiologist said, “With this Cath Lab, we aim to make world-class cardiac interventions accessible right here, without the need for patients to travel to metro cities. From angioplasty to complex cardiac procedures, our focus remains compassionate, timely and evidence-based care for every patient who walks through our doors.”

The facility is set to revolutionize regional access to Cardiac Care as until now, patients in Kharar, Ropar, Bassi, Kurali and nearby areas had to travel long distances to Chandigarh or other metro hospitals for urgent cardiac intervention.

This initiative is aligned with ClearMedi’s broader vision of expanding tertiary-level specialties across regional centers, ensuring equitable healthcare access instead of tier-based limitations.