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.

Tata Hitachi Showcases the Power of ‘Reliable Orange’ with Next-Gen Machines and Electric Excavators at EXCON 2025

 

CHANDIGARH 9th December’25: Tata Hitachi, one of India’s leading construction machinery manufacturers, officially opened its pavilion at EXCON 2025 — South Asia’s largest construction equipment exhibition — under the theme “Reliable Orange.”

Mr. Masafumi Senzaki, the Representative Executive Officer, President & Executive Officer, and COO of Hitachi Construction Machinery, Japan, inaugurated the Tata Hitachi Pavilion at EXCON 2025. His attendance was a notable event, as it marks renewed commitment to India’s infrastructure growth story and HCM’s support to Tata Hitachi for more than 4 decades. It also highlighted India’s pivotal role in Hitachi Construction Machinery Japan’s global growth strategy.
This year’s theme ‘RELIABLE ORANGE’ highlights Tata Hitachi’s unwavering promise of Quality, Durability, reliability, and consistent performance, built on a legacy of trust, engineering excellence, and customer commitment.
Reliable Orange is embodied in more than 120,000 units, working with our esteemed customers, who have come to experiencesuperior fuel efiiciency, durability and excellent resale value. As the company continues its journey with more than 120,000 machines sold, it reinforces its legacy of engineering excellence and customer trust. Tata Hitachi's portfolio is acknowledged for providing superior fuel efficiency across various categories, enabling customers to substantially lower operating costs while enhancing productivity, performance, and sustainability.

Mr. Masafumi Senzaki, Representative Executive Officer, President & Executive Officer and COO, Hitachi Construction Machinery, Japan said, “India is one of the fastest-growing construction markets in the world, and our collaboration with Tata Hitachi enables us to meet the expectations of Indian customers with world-class machinery and dependable support. With the innovations showcased at EXCON 2025, we aim to empower customers with machines that deliver high output, reduced operating costs, and long-term reliability—attributes that define our shared philosophy of engineering excellence.”
Mr. Sandeep Singh, Managing Director at Tata Hitachi, said, “Our customer-centric philosophy, people, processes have stood us in good stead in our journey of over 60+years. It is this ethos that has enabled us to build one of India’s largest customer-facing networks in the excavator segment’’.
Speaking about the participation at EXCON 2025, Mr. Singh said, “EXCON continues to be the most significant platform for the construction equipment industry, and we are proud to showcase our expanded portfolio under the theme ‘Reliable Orange.’ This theme reflects our long-standing promise of reliability, durability, and customer trust. With the introduction of electric machines, new attachments, and live demonstrations of advanced technologies, we are reinforcing our commitment to shaping the future of India’s construction ecosystem. These demonstrations will offer visitors a first-hand understanding of machine capability, efficiency, and operator comfort in real application scenarios. They will also highlight how smart systems, automation, and precision technologies are transforming productivity and safety on job sites.”
He further added ‘’As the country accelerates infrastructure development at an unprecedented pace, our focus remains on delivering machines that are reliable, efficient, and designed for real-world conditions.’’
Tata Hitachi’s participation at EXCON 2025 demonstrates its continued commitment in shaping the future of the construction equipment industry— with innovation, sustainability, reliability, and customer-centricity at its core.
Tata Hitachi also launched following Machines and attachments @EXCON 2025:
 
Newly Launched Machines: Newly Launched Attachments:  
1) ZAXIS 890 1)     Solar Panel Lifter  
2) EX210 LC Electric 2)     Crusher Bucket  
3)     SMART SM230 Rock Breaker  
4)     Magnum Series Rock Breaker  
5)     Ripper Tooth  
6)     Tilt Coupler  
7)     Mini Excavator Grapple

The equipment line-up at the Tata Hitachi booth included of ZAXIS 23U, 33e Electric, ZAXIS 33U, NX 50, NX 80, SHINRAI Prime, SHINRAI Pro, TL340H Prime, ZW 225, ZAXIS 140H Ultra, EX 210 Infra, EX 210LC Electric,
ZAXIS 220LC Ultra, EX 350LC Prime, ZAXIS 370LCH Ultra, ZAXIS 490H Ultra and the ZAXIS 890. Also, an extensive range of customised attachments and genuine spare parts section was also available for meeting the demands of particular industry applications and machines.
For any further details, please visit our website www.tatahitachi.co.in

Xiaomi India launches REDMI 15C 5G with sleek design, immersive display and dependable performance

CHANDIGQRH: Xiaomi India today announced the launch of the REDMI 15C 5G, a smartphone designed to deliver a sleek aesthetic, a spacious 17.53 cm immersive display, and dependable all-day performance for users who seamlessly switch between work and entertainment.

Commenting on the launch, Anuj Sharma, Chief Marketing Officer, Xiaomi India said, “With REDMI 15C 5G, our goal was to build a phone that feels effortless in the hands of everyday users. The combination of a big immersive display, a reliable all-day battery and a refined royale design reflects how people now watch, learn and work on their phones. As we look ahead, our focus is on keeping the REDMI experience reliable and built around what truly matters to our users.”

The REDMI 15C 5G features a slim, polished body with a 3D quad-curved back for a balanced grip and a distinctive floating crater camera design. It comes in Moonlight Blue, Dusk Purple and Midnight Black, with Moonlight Blue crafted through a dual-colour magnetic ink process.

The 17.53 cm HD+ display with up to 120Hz AdaptiveSync delivers smooth, responsive viewing, while the 50MP AI dual camera ensures clear, vibrant photography across bright, indoor and low-light conditions.

A large 6000mAh battery powers the device through extended use, supporting 23 hours of video playback and 106.9 hours of music. With 33W turbo charging, the phone reaches 50% in just 28 minutes, and 10W reverse charging offers added on-the-go convenience. It also comes with a 33W charger in the box.

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 octa core processor, the REDMI 15C 5G delivers smooth multitasking, with up to 16GB RAM (with memory extension) and 1TB expandable storage. It runs on Xiaomi HyperOS 2, offering smart features such as Circle to Search with Google, built-in Google Gemini, and Xiaomi interconnectivity tools including Call Sync and Shared Clipboard.

Engineered for everyday durability, the device includes IP64 dust and water resistance and a 200% volume boost for clearer audio in noisy environments.

The REDMI 15C 5G will be available in 4GB+128GB, 6GB+128GB and 8GB+128GB variants. The pricing has been set competitively, with the 4GB+128GB variant priced at ₹12,499, the 6GB+128GB variant at ₹13,999, and the 8GB+128GB variant at ₹15,499.

Dev Samaj Mahotsav Concludes

Dr Agnese Dhillon, Secretary, Dev Samaj Holds Discourse, Says There is No Place for Superstitions and Outdated Practices in Dev Samaj

Blood Donation Camp Held During Mahotsav Helps in Collection of 100 Units

Chandigarh, December 7, 2025: The 175th Birth Anniversary celebrations of the founder of Dev Samaj, Bhagwan Dev Atma, being organized at Dev Samaj Head Office, Sector 36-B, Chandigarh have concluded. The celebrations were held over four-days.

During the ‘Mahotsav’, a ‘Mahasabha’ was addressed by Dr Agnese Dhillon, Secretary, Dev Samaj, on ‘New Directions of Spiritual Development and Bhagwan Devatma’. Dr Dhillon in her discourse said that Bhagwan Dev Atma founded a science‑based ‘spiritual belief system’, Dev Samaj. She said that in the teachings of Dev Samaj there is no place for superstitions and outdated practices.

She further stated that Bhagwan Dev Atma taught humanity to renounce many social evils and adopt a noble, selfless lifestyle. She emphasized, “By embracing Bhagwan Dev Atma’s teachings in our lives, we can make this world a better place for future generations.”

To commemorate the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Dev Atma, a Blood Donation Camp was also organized in collaboration with PGIMER Chandigarh. The camp was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Shri Ajay Kumar Pandey, IPS, ADGP, Punjab Police. Present with him on the occasion were Prof. Vipin Kaushal, Medical Superintendent, PGIMER Chandigarh, Dr. Sucheta Sachdeva, Additional Professor, Department of Transfusion Medicine, PGIMER Chandigarh, and Shri Jaspal Bhullar, in‑charge, District Crime Cell, Chandigarh Police, who was the Guest of Honor.

In the camp, staff and volunteers from Dev Samaj educational institutions, Dev Samaj devotees, members of Sukh Foundation, & many others participated. 100 units of blood were collected.

Daily discourses on social ethics and moral culture were held during the Mahotsav. Other activities that took place included ‘Bhajan Gayan’, ‘Sangeet Sandhya’, Quiz Competition and a Play by students too. Dev Samaj Modern School, New Delhi, presented a splendid drama titled ‘Karvat’, based on the positive transformations that occur in human life through the teachings of Bhagwan Dev Atma.

A discourse on ‘Importance of Dev Dharma for Humanity’ by Shriman Jagdish Chand Ji Bhardwaj was also held. In his address, Shriman Jagdish highlighted the importance of Dev Dharma for the welfare of all humanity, saying that a person should stay away from the race of material desires and avoid causing pain or suffering to anyone. He also specially mentioned the achievements of the former Secretary of Dev Samaj, late Shriman Nirmal Singh Dhillon, and his tireless service toward the progress of Dev Samaj.

A Sabha by Dr. Ramesh Chand Ji Garg on ‘Why Every Human Needs a Divine Soul- Bhagwan Devatma’ was also organised. In his discourse, he said that despite relentless struggles in his divine journey, Bhagwan Dev Atma continuously inspired people to walk on the path of righteousness.

Shriman Maanvinder Singh Ji Mangat, Chief Administrative Officer, Dev Samaj presented a brief report on the progress and development of Dev Samaj.

The Mahotsav concluded with ‘Bhajans’, prayers and a pledge to follow the ideals and principles laid down by Bhagwan Dev Atma.

Students Showcase Artistic Talent to Support Education for Underprivileged Children

Chandigarh, December 6, 2025: Sixty-Four(64) paintings created by students from nine leading schools across the tricity were showcased at the Sector 17 underpass as part of a unique fundraising exhibition. The event was inaugurated by chief guest Chandigarh Mayor Harpreet Kaur Babla. The inauguration marked the start of the opening chapter of the two-day initiative ‘Udaan 2.0’, being organised by Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) Cubs Club in collaboration with Navjivan Health Service. Notably, Cubs Club is a dedicated not-for-profit organisation, committed to supporting and empowering underprivileged children across the tricity.

It is noteworthy that the exhibition was conceptualised as a fundraiser to help strengthen teaching infrastructure in schools that serve children from economically weaker and underserved communities.

Harpreet Kaur Babla, said, “The young artists of our tricity have shown that when children use their talents for a noble cause, they become powerful agents of change. I applaud Cubs Club and Navjivan Health Service for creating a platform that supports underserved schools.”

Meenu Prashar, Founder of Cubs Club, who has consistently worked for the upliftment of underprivileged schoolchildren, said, “Funds raised from ‘Udaan 2.0’ will directly support Cubs Club’s adopted schools: Bright Sparks School, Greenwood School Kharar, ATS Daycare Mohali, Government School Togan, and Kandala. We will provide needy schools with essential educational items to boost their infrastructure.”

“Another way that private schools are helping is by provision of surplus material that can significantly benefit under-resourced institutions. Through the initiative we hope to cultivate a long-term culture of community support,” said Dr Monica B. Sood, Convenor, Intellectual Cell, BJP Chandigarh State, who’s organisation Navjeevan Health Service is supporting Cubs Club’s endeavour.

The exhibition witnessed enthusiastic participation from young artists from nine reputed schools of tricity and near about. Student artists from Guru Nanak Public School (Chandigarh), St. Soldier's School (Panchkula), Stepping Stones School (Chandigarh), Chitkara International School (Chandigarh), Ankur School (Chandigarh), Amity International School (Mohali), ATS Valley School (Derabassi), Pinegrove School (Dharampur) and Pinegrove School (Subathu) displayed their awe inspiring paintings.

The paintings were evaluated by Ravinder Sharma, Vice Chairman, Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi and Artist K R Kohli. The winners of the painting exhibition will be awarded on December 13 at the Government Art Museum Auditorium, Sector 10. This ceremony will mark the concluding chapter of ‘Udaan 2.0’ and will feature a vibrant cultural showcase wherein children from the adopted schools will present storytelling acts and group dances, celebrating creativity, confidence, and expressive freedom.

“We want to offer these children a platform to shine and interact with peers from mainstream institutions. By bringing students from diverse backgrounds together, our initiative encourages social sensitivity and a deeper understanding of educational inequalities,” said Meenu.

Dr Monica added, “With this initiative, students from private schools will have the opportunity to recognise not just the challenges but also the resilience & talent of their less privileged peers.”

Beyond its role as a fundraiser, the exhibition championed the message that schools with abundant resources remain equally invested in uplifting education for the less privileged. The artwork symbolised a bridge between the “haves” and the “have-nots,” reinforcing the belief that every child deserves access to quality education regardless of their financial or social background.

Meenu Prashar informed that the contributions of privileged schools were helping the NGO spread awareness, mobilise communities, and work toward adopting more schools in the future.

शंखनाद, आतिशबाजी व ढोल-नगाड़ों के साथ साईं बाबा की शिरडी से पधारी चरण पादुकाओं के स्वागत को उमड़ पड़े साईं भक्त

 शंखनाद, आतिशबाजी व ढोल-नगाड़ों के साथ साईं बाबा की शिरडी से पधारी चरण पादुकाओं के स्वागत को उमड़ पड़े साईं भक्त

श्री साईं धाम में ट्राईसिटी से लगभग एक लाख श्रद्धालु करेंगे साई बाबा की शिरडी से पधारी चरण पादुकाओं के दर्शन

श्री साईबाबा संस्थान विश्वस्तव्यवस्था ट्रस्ट, शिरडी के सीईओ गोरक्ष गाडिलकर (आईएएस) स्वयं अपनी देखरेख में लेकर आए चरण पादुकाओं को 

गोरक्ष गाडिलकर ने भक्तों के जोश को देख कर ख़ुशी प्रकट की व मंदिर कमेटी के प्रबंधों पर संतोष व्यक्त किया 

बड़ी संख्या में श्रद्धालुओं के उमड़ने से उत्पन्न स्थिति से निपटने के लिए मंदिर प्रबंधन तैयार : रमेश कालिया 

सुरक्षा प्रबंधों से लेकर सारा समय बड़ी मात्रा में लंगर तैयार करने के लिए की हुई है हर समुचित व्यवस्था    

चण्डीगढ़ : आज का दिन साईं भक्तों के लिए बेहद अविस्मरणीय बन गया जब साई बाबा के परम धाम शिरडी से चरण पादुकाएं चण्डीगढ़ पधारी। श्री साईबाबा संस्थान विश्वस्तव्यवस्था ट्रस्ट, शिरडी के सीईओ गोरक्ष गाडिलकर (आईएएस) स्वयं अपनी देखरेख में चरण पादुकाओं को लेकर आए। सेंट्रा लाइट पॉइंट पर मंदिर के पुजारियों ने शंखनाद तथा भक्तों ने आतिशबाजी व ढोल-नगाड़ों के साथ साई बाबा की शिरडी से पधारी चरण पादुकाओं का भव्य स्वागत किया। चरण पादुकाओं को गाजे-बाजे एवं धूमधाम के साथ मंदिर परिसर में लाया गया व विधिवत मंत्रोचारण के साथ बाबा के स्वरुप के समक्ष स्थापित किया गया जहाँ चरण पादुकाओं के दर्शनों को बड़ी संख्या में साईं भक्त उमड़ पड़े।

गोरक्ष गाडिलकर (आईएएस) ने इस अवसर पर मीडिया को सम्बोधित करते हुए कहा कि भक्तों के अभूतपूर्व उत्साह से वे निहाल हैं। उन्होंने मंदिर कमेटी के प्रबंधों को देख कर भी संतोष व्यक्त किया व बताया कि वे दिल्ली से चरण पादुकाओं को लेकर चण्डीगढ़ आए हैं व रास्ते भर भी भक्तजन बड़ी संख्या में उमड़ते रहे। परसों सुबह वे इन चरण पादुकाओं को लेकर जालंधर को प्रस्थान करेंगे।  

बड़ी संख्या में श्रद्धालुओं के उमड़ने से उत्पन्न स्थिति से निपटने के लिए मंदिर प्रबंधन तैयार : रमेश कालिया

श्री साईं धाम, सेक्टर 29 में शिरडी से पधारी साईं बाबा की चरण पादुकाओं के दर्शनों के लिए लगभग एक लाख श्रद्धालुगण ट्राई सिटी के साथ साथ आसपास के अन्य शहरों से भी आ रहे है। इतनी बड़ी संख्या में श्रद्धालुओं के आने तथा उनके लिए बड़ी मात्रा में अटूट लंगर तैयार करने की सुचारू एवं समुचित व्यवस्था की गई है। ये कहना था साईं मंदिर कमेटी के अध्यक्ष रमेश कालिया का। वे आज मंदिर परिसर में कार्यक्रम की तैयारियों बारे मीडिया से एक प्रेस वार्ता में बात कर रहे थे। उनके साथ अन्य पदाधिकारी मनोज गोयल, मुनीष गुप्ता, असित मनचंदा व विमल आदि भी मौजूद थे। रमेश कालिया ने बताया कि इतने विशाल स्तर का कार्यक्रम पहली बार मंदिर में किया जा रहा है, जिसके लिए सुचारू प्रबंध करना एक बड़ी चुनौती थी, परन्तु बड़ी संख्या में समर्पित भक्तों की अथक मेहनत से सब काम सरलता से होता गया।  

उन्होंने बताया कि हर वर्ष 6 दिसम्बर को सेक्टर 29 स्थित श्री साईं धाम में बाबा का स्वरूप स्थापना समारोह धूमधाम से आयोजित किया जाता है परन्तु इस वर्ष का आयोजन बेहद खास हो गया है क्योंकि इस बार साईं बाबा के परम धाम शिरडी से साईं बाबा की चरण पादुकाएं चण्डीगढ़ पधारी हैं, जिससे पूरे क्षेत्र में भक्तों में भरी जोश का संचार देखने को मिल रहा है। 

तत्पश्चात सांय चरण पादुकाओं की शोभा यात्रा मंदिर के आसपास के क्षेत्रों में निकाली गई। कल 6 दिसंबर को बाबा के 30वें स्वरूप स्थापना दिवस पर पूरे दिन चरण पादुकाएं भक्तों के दर्शनार्थ मंदिर परिसर में सुबह 9 बजे स्थापित की जाएंगी। 

इस दौरान अनेक सुप्रसिद्ध गायक गायिकाओं द्वारा पूरे दिन भजन गायन करके बाबा का गुणगान किया जाएगा। इनमें सबसे पहले नूरां सिस्टर्स से सुल्ताना नूरां दोपहर 12.30 बजे भजन गायन के कार्यक्रम का शुभारंभ किया जाएगा। बाद में पद्मश्री हंसराज हंस व मास्टर सलीम के साथ साथ कई अन्य जाने माने भजन गायक भी मंच संभालेंगे। इस बीच दोपहर 3 बजे से श्री सुंदर कांड पाठ भी रखा गया है।

सुबह से लेकर देर रात्रि तक बाबा का अटूट लंगर सारा दिन बरताया जायेगा।

 

6 दिसंबर को सुबह बाबा के स्वरूप का मंगल स्नान भक्तों द्वारा करवाया जाएगा

 शिरडी साईं समाज, चण्डीगढ़ द्वारा सेक्टर 29 स्थित साईं धाम मंदिर में साईं बाबा का 30वां स्वरूप स्थापना दिवस मनाने के लिए तैयारी पूरी हो गई है। मंदिर में बाबा का स्वरूप 30 वर्ष पूर्व 6 दिसम्बर 1995 को स्थापित किया गया था। मंदिर प्रबंधन ने इस दिन को धूमधाम से मनाने की तैयारी की है। 6 दिसंबर की प्रातः 5 बजे मंदिर खुलने से लेकर रात तक के कार्यक्रम होगा। प्रातः 5.00 बजे बाबा की कांकड़ आरती होगी व 5.45 बजे बाबा के स्वरूप का मंगल स्नान होगा जो बाबा के पुरुष भक्तों द्वारा करवाया जाएगा। इसके बाद 7 बजे बाबा का श्रृंगार होगा व 7.15 बजे बाबा को नाश्ता-भोग अर्पण के बाद महिला भक्तों द्वारा बाबा को पुष्पांजलि अर्पित की जाएगी। तत्पश्चात 8 बजे से बाबा का 8 घंटे का लगातार साईं सच्चरित्र का पाठ होगा। दोपहर 12 बजे बाबा की मध्याह्न आरती होगी व शाम 6 बजे की धूप आरती होगी तथा देर रात्रि बाबा के शेज आरती के साथ समारोह का समापन होगा। इसी बीच मंदिर परिसर को फूलों एवं लाइटों से बेहद अद्भुत एवं आकर्षक तरीके से सुसज्जित किया गया है।

Gourmet Investments Brings UK’s No. 1 Pizzeria, PizzaExpress, to Nexus Elante Mall, Chandigarh

  Chandigarh, December 3, 2025: Gou
rmet Investments Private Limited (GIPL), a leader in bringing the finest international restaurants to India, has brought PizzaExpress, the UK’s No. 1 Pizzeria and a global Britalian icon, to the Tricity with the launch of its first-ever restaurant in Chandigarh at Nexus Elante Mall.

This opening marks PizzaExpress’s 37th restaurant in India and extends the brand’s 60-year legacy to one of North India’s most discerning and well-travelled markets.

The Chandigarh opening of PizzaExpress by GIPL (the food and beverage vertical of Bharti Family Office), follows the strong response the brand has seen in Punjab, particularly in Mohali and Ludhiana, where guests have embraced the brand’s blend of authenticity, freshness, and flair.

“PizzaExpress has grown into a globally loved dining experience across 13 countries, and we’re delighted to bring this heritage to Chandigarh,” said Ramit Bharti Mittal, Chairman and Director, GIPL. “The city values authenticity and craft, which is exactly what PizzaExpress stands for. Our Britalian identity, iconic menu, and commitment to quality align beautifully with the way Chandigarh dines. This launch is also a key step in our strategic North India expansion.”

 “Our cuisine philosophy has always been beautifully simple,” said Jerry Thomas, Culinary Head - PizzaExpress. “With our Pizzaiolos at the heart of everything, the dough remains the hero. Fresh ingredients, treated with respect, create flavours that stay consistent around the world. While our core never changes, innovation is part of the PizzaExpress DNA. That’s why international favourites like the Leggera sit comfortably alongside local adaptations. For Chandigarh, we’ve crafted dishes such as the Spicy American Hottest, Padrino, and Chicken & Paneer Coriander Pesto, developed to suit the flavour preferences of Indian guests.”

“Chandigarh, with its well-travelled, quality-conscious audience, is the ideal home for our first restaurant in Tricity. The city’s love for good food, modern design, and elevated dining fits seamlessly with the PizzaExpress ethos. said Kumar Asit, India CEO, PizzaExpress. “The response across Punjab, from Mohali to Chandigarh, signals strong appetite for premium casual dining. Amritsar and Jalandhar will therefore be the next chapters in our North India growth story and with this, we are firmly on track to reach a milestone of 50 restaurants by FY 2026–27.”

Since 1965, when Peter Boizot returned from Italy inspired by the flavours he discovered and opened the first restaurant on Wardour Street in Soho, the brand has held one belief constant: great pizza starts with great craft. The Chandigarh menu stays rooted in PizzaExpress’s heritage while embracing flavours that suit the Indian palate. At its heart are the three signature bases: Classic, Romana and newly launched Naples; carrying global favourites such as the Romana, Queen Margherita, Lava, American Hot and the Michelin-star-created Calabrese, a bold rectangular pizza born from the brand’s culinary collaboration with chef Francesco Mazzei.  The Romana brings that iconic thin, stretched, crisp base PizzaExpress is loved for, while the new Naples base offers a softer, fuller, more indulgent bite inspired by the pizzerias of southern Italy.

For fitness enthusiasts, there is the Leggera, a lighter, under-600-calorie innovation endorsed by the Weight Watchers Society, perfect for fitness enthusiasts. At the heart of these signatures is the brand’s iconic tomato passata, made exclusively for PizzaExpress by the Greci family in Italy, using San Marzano tomatoes crushed within 12 hours of harvest and finished with a basil leaf for the unmistakable flavour the brand is known for worldwide.

Alongside these icons are local adaptations crafted specially for India, including the Spicy Grilled Chicken Pizza, Chicken Coriander Pesto Pizza and Tandoori Chicken Pizza, each designed to echo the region’s love for bold, vibrant flavours. And because Punjab loves its chicken, the menu also features Wings in four styles: crispy fried wings, smoky BBQ wings, classic hot wings and creamy red jalapeño hot wings.

Beyond pizza, the restaurant introduces a complete all-day dining offering: its world-famous Dough Balls, rice bowls (a first for PizzaExpress India), fresh salads, lasagne, risottos, Piadina sandwiches, handcrafted desserts such as mango cheesecake and gelato, and a child-friendly Piccolo Menu with activity packs.

The restaurant also introduces the brand’s expanded all-day dining menu to the region. Alongside its iconic pizzas, guests can enjoy rice bowls (a first for PizzaExpress India), fresh salads, hand-made pastas, and Italian sandwiches (Piadina). Handcrafted desserts such as tiramisu, the cheesecake and sticky toffee pudding, the kid-friendly Piccolo Menu with activity packs, and a refreshed beverage programme featuring cocktails, mocktails, sangrias, a carefully selected range of coffees, and a curated wine list round out the experience.

Bringing the brand’s story to life is the signature open kitchen, where guests can watch the striped-uniformed Pizzaiolos handcraft every base with flair, precision and theatre.

Ever since founder Peter Boizot opened the first PizzaExpress in Soho in 1965, the brand has stayed rooted in its constants: great food, evocative music, and distinctive design. The restaurant stays true to the brand’s design philosophy: warm, modern, and inviting, with an open kitchen that puts its Pizzaiolos centre-stage.

GIPL, the India partner for PizzaExpress, Chili’s and PF Chang’s, continues to expand with a philosophy grounded in culinary integrity, quality, and warm hospitality. Every new restaurant builds on the PizzaExpress legacy: elevated dining, meticulous craft, and unforgettable experiences.

About PizzaExpress: PizzaExpress has believed, since 1965, that dining should be one of life’s great highlights. Founded by Peter Boizot on Wardour Street in Soho, the brand has grown into a global icon known for its lively energy, handcrafted pizzas, and theatrical open kitchens. Every PizzaExpress pizzeria is built around the same philosophy: only the freshest, perfectly sourced ingredients will do, and every dish should be made with care and flair.

The brand’s signatures include its world-famous Dough Balls, the thin and crisp Romana, the bold Michelin-star-created Calabrese, and classics such as the American. Its tomato passata—made exclusively by the Greci family in Italy from San Marzano tomatoes crushed within 12 hours of harvest—remains one of the cornerstones of its flavour, used across all PizzaExpress kitchens worldwide.

Today, PizzaExpress operates more than 450 pizzerias in the UK, continually reinventing the dining experience while expanding across 13 international markets. Whether dining in or out, the brand continues to pair bold flavours and creative craftsmanship with a flair for great times, staying true to the spirit that began in Soho six decades ago.

 About Gourmet Investments Pvt. Ltd. (GIPL)

Gourmet Investments Pvt. Ltd., part of the Bharti family office, was founded in 2012 with a vision to redefine India’s casual-dining landscape by bringing globally renowned international restaurant brands to India. The company has successfully introduced India to premium global restaurant brands including PizzaExpress, Chili’s American Grill & Bar and P.F. Chang’s. As on date, the company operates 50 restaurants in India. With expertise spanning brand management, marketing, culinary innovation, and guest experience, GIPL has established itself as a benchmark in India’s F&B industry and continues to be committed to delivering world-class dining experiences.

With distinctly designed restaurants across key Indian cities including Mumbai, Pune, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Lucknow, Mohali and now Chandigarh, GIPL has become a symbol of professional management, recognized for its culinary innovations and world-class dining experiences within the Indian hospitality industry.

Vivek High School Students Shine in Annual Presentation ‘Echoes of the Earth’

Mohali, Dec 3: The young learners of the Montessori Toddlers and Environments of Vivek High School, Mohali presented their annual presentation, ‘Echoes of the Earth.’ The production was conceived and performed by the children. The school campus transformed into a vibrant celebration of nature, as the children showcased a powerful and poignant performance about ecological responsibility through the lens of the animal kingdom.

The narrative journeyed through the intricate web of life, it began with the fascinating world of invertebrates before exploring the five distinguished families of vertebrates. The children gracefully showed concepts of the food chain and interdependence, culminating in a unified message that all life is connected through a delicate ‘Circle of Life,’ sharing the important message about why we must all protect the Earth.

Mrs. Meenu Sahi, Founder & Executive Director of Vivek High Montessori Institute, Chandigarh, elaborated that Montessori is a scientifically-grounded approach fostering independence and respect for a child’s natural development. She said, “At Vivek High School, Mohali, we create a learning environment where holistic development is achieved through hands-on learning and collaborative play. She highlighted that the annual presentation exemplified this principle, as the children themselves chose the topic, built their understanding and confidently shared their learning, demonstrating the school's success in nurturing independent learners.”

Mrs. Meenakshi Madaan, Head of the Junior Wing, added that the Montessori method is centred on trusting a child's natural curiosity and allowing children to explore the world at their own pace through self-directed activities. She said, “This approach moves beyond simple knowledge and develops essential skills, fostering children who are articulate communicators and caring, compassionate individuals.”

Mrs. Jaswinder Gandhok, Principal of Vivek High School, Mohali, praised the children’s wonderful performance and the hard work of the teachers. She reflected on Dr. Montessori’s philosophy that a child’s mind is “a fire to be kindled, not a vessel to be filled.”

She highlighted theatre as a powerful way of learning. She explained that by embodying animals and speaking for them, the children moved beyond mere lessons to a profound, understanding. “Our children have not just learned about ecology,” she stated, “they have truly felt what it means to be responsible for our world.”

The confidence, skill, and heartfelt message of the young performers left an indelible mark, earning resounding accolades from management, faculty and parents. The talented children through the state play gave a powerful reminder of our shared duty to protect the Earth.

GB Realty Unveils Unique 1 % Payment Plan, aims to Make Luxury Living Affordable

 

 “In The Real Estate Industry the Financial Onus Is On the Buyer but with This Plan, We Have Taken It Upon Ourselves, We Are Happy to Have Bucked the Trend,” Gurinder Bhatti, Founder and Chairman, GB Realty

 

The 1 % Payment Plan Will Make Owning an Ultra Luxury Home in GB Realty's ‘Opus One’ Easier

 

GB Realty Launches Pioneering 1 % Plan On Organisation’s First Anniversary

 

Chandigarh, December 1, 2025: In a bold move set to reshape North India’s premium housing market, GB Realty has unveiled a pioneering ‘1 % Monthly Luxury Home Payment Plan’. Details of the plan which is a game changer for North India’s luxury home market were announced by Gurinder Bhatti, Founder and Chairman of GB Realty during a press conference held at Chandigarh’s Hyatt Regency, on the side-lines of the company’s first anniversary celebrations. Bhatti was accompanied by GB Realty's Vice President Jatinder Bajwa. 

 

Unveiling the special anniversary initiative, Gurinder Bhatti, said, “The 1% plan is a gift to homebuyers on our first anniversary. We have designed the plan keeping middle and upper middle–class aspirational buyers in mind. We feel that luxury is no longer a privilege—it is a necessity, and it must be accessible to all.”

 

Bhatti further said, “In the real estate industry, the financial onus is on the buyer but with this plan we have taken it upon ourselves, we are happy to have bucked the trend. Our focus is to make enabling provisions for the prospective residents of ‘Opus One’.”

 

‘Opus One’ is GB Realty’s upcoming RERA approved Ultra Luxury Homes project and when ready will showcase New Chandigarh’s tallest residential towers in the township.

 

Notably, according to a calculation under the 1% plan, 40 percent of the amount due for an ultra-luxurious home at 'Opus One' would be completed in less than 4 years (42 months) under a simple initial down payment, followed by an easy ‘monthly payment’ model.  The balance 60% would have to be paid at the time of possession. The 'Opus One' project will be delivered in Dec 2029 – in 4 years flat.

 

Bhatti said, “Our unique & first-of-its-kind payment package is simple & well structured.”

 

It is noteworthy that the plan broadly encapsulates a 20% upfront or down payment, followed by up-to 1 per cent pay-outs per month for 42 months. This will complete 40 percent of the total payment due. The balance 60 percent - has to be paid on possession,

 

 

 

Bhatti referring to the plan added, “The plan shifts the financial onus from the buyer to the builder. The buyer has unmatched financial flexibility under the payment plan as he or she can plan to save funds for the final instalment due to easier monthly pay-outs."

 

He said the model ensures that the builder is paid last, placing responsibility for timely delivery squarely on the developer and strengthening buyer confidence in a market where trust is paramount.

 

A first in North India’s luxury housing segment, Bhatti stated that the structure empowers buyers to manage their finances comfortably over four years.

 

According to Bhatti, whose vision is aligned with transparency and best practices, the 1% plan brings clarity, removes hidden conditions, and helps families plan their finances comfortably while boosting confidence in the luxury real estate market.

 

It is worth mentioning here that the announcement coincides with GB Realty’s first anniversary celebrations, showcasing a landmark year of growth driven by responsible development and a steadfast commitment to enhancing New Chandigarh’s urban landscape.

 

Reflecting on the occasion, Bhatti said that over the past year, we have advanced rapidly on our flagship project, ‘Opus One’, set to become the tallest residential address in New Chandigarh.

 

In reply to question from the media, Bhatti said the project brings together some of the world’s leading design and planning minds, including Principal Architect Tripat Girdhar, Lighting and Visual Planning Consultant Dhruv Jyoti Ghose, Landscape Architect Wannaporn Phornprapha, and Interior Design Consultant Chris Godfrey.