Fairmont And Raffles Jaipur Announce The Appointment Of Aditya Raj Nair As Cluster Director

Fairmont and Raffles Jaipur are pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Aditya Raj Nair as the new Cluster Director of Talent & Culture. With over 15 years of rich experience in human resources across India’s most celebrated luxury hotel brands, Aditya brings a strong vision for people development, cultural transformation, and talent strategy in the luxury hospitality space.

Aditya’s distinguished career includes leadership roles at Oberoi Hotels and Resorts Mumbai, Renaissance Bengaluru, JW Marriott Mussoorie, Taj Palace New Delhi, and Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts. His efforts have been consistently recognised, including the recent accolade of “HR Person of the Year 2024 – Luxury to Upper Upscale” at the Hotelier India Awards, along with multiple honours from APEC Marriott International HR Awards.

As Cluster Director of Talent & Culture, he will lead the people and culture agenda across both Fairmont and Raffles Jaipur, focusing on building a purpose-driven workplace, enhancing employee experiences, and aligning talent with long-term brand aspirations.

On his appointment, Mr Rajat Sethi, General Manager of Fairmont Jaipur said, “We are pleased to welcome Aditya Raj Nair to Fairmont Jaipur. His leadership experience and forward-thinking approach align perfectly with our vision. We look forward to the impact his presence will bring as we continue to strengthen our teams and deliver on our commitment to excellence.”

Sharing his thoughts on the new role, Mr. Aditya Raj Nair said, “I am honoured to be part of two iconic properties that exemplify refined luxury and meaningful hospitality. My vision is to create a people-first culture where every heartist feels empowered, inspired, and valued. Together, we will continue to nurture a workplace that celebrates excellence, innovation, and a shared passion for delivering unforgettable guest experiences.

With his forward-looking leadership and deep-rooted understanding of talent ecosystems, Aditya is set to play a pivotal role in shaping a dynamic and inclusive culture that will strengthen both properties as employers of choice in the luxury hospitality landscape.

BM Birla Heart Hospital at the forefront of cardiac innovation with Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery

BM Birla Heart Hospital, Kolkata is revolutionising the future of cardiac care with minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS). As Eastern India’s only dedicated cardiac super-specialty hospital, BMB sets the standard for international standard cardiac care, delivering exceptional outcomes across all age groups.

At the forefront of cardiac innovation, BMB has achieved remarkable success with MICS. The hospital has successfully treated several intricate cardiac surgery cases with the MICS approach, providing patients with a safer, more effective treatment option. Expert clinicians and cutting-edge technology assure outstanding patient care and outcomes.

Contrary to traditional open-heart surgery, in which a large incision is made through the breastbone or sternum, MICS involves making small incisions in and around the ribs using specialized instruments and robotic assistance. This approach significantly reduces trauma and recovery time for patients. The small incisions also reduce the risk of infection, blood loss, and pain, leaving behind a smaller scar.

Explaining the benefits of MICS for heart patients, Dr Ratan Kumar Das, Director of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery (CTVS) at BM Birla Heart Hospital said, “MICS is an improved and more advanced alternative to traditional open-heart surgery, offering shorter recovery times, a lower risk of infection, reduced blood loss and smaller scars. It is as effective as traditional heart surgery, and also suitable for a wide range of complex cases.”

Sharing his thoughts, Dr Debabrata Biswas, Consultant – Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery at BM Birla Heart Hospital said, “There are many myths surrounding MICS treatment. Many believe it is not very effective or that it is only suitable for minor heart problems, which prevents patients from gaining the benefits of this advanced medical procedure. Raising awareness about MICS is crucial to dispelling these misconceptions and ensuring that more patients can benefit from this approach.”

MICS is a game changer in cardiac care treatment. This advanced procedure is transforming lives by making heart surgeries safer. As a leader in MICS, patients at BM Birla Heart Hospital are experiencing faster recovery times, reduced complications, and improved overall health. The many successful surgeries the hospital has performed are a testament to the healthcare centre’s expertise and commitment to transforming cardiac care.

Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital, Mumbai Treats Rare Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Infant

Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital, Mumbai, successfully treated  a rare, complex, life-threatening bleeding condition in a 10-month-old infant, where blood originating from the lungs mimicked gastrointestinal bleeding. The baby had been vomiting blood, and passing dark brown stools and had recorded four such episodes intermittently at the age of two months. When she was presented to the hospital with these conditions recently, a team of doctors led by Dr. Aditya Kulkarni, Consultant, Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, examined her. She was admitted for thorough evaluation and investigations.

The infant underwent a series of comprehensive evaluations including liver function tests and an upper GI endoscopy, which did not reveal any abnormalities. Suspecting Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA), doctors advised a soy-based diet and dairy elimination, which led to a temporary resolution of symptoms.

A crucial breakthrough in the case came when the mother reported that the baby had repeated coughing episodes before vomiting blood. Pulmonologist Dr. Indu Khosla conducted a bronchoscopy and discovered a small swelling near the base of the tongue, along with traces of blood in the airways. An MRI scan identified this swelling as a thyroglossal cyst, while a CT pulmonary angiography revealed the actual source of the bleeding—a small cavity in the upper part of the left lung with an actively bleeding blood vessel.

Given the rarity and complexity of this condition, an intervention was meticulously planned. Interventional Radiologist Dr. Mounil Bhuta performed a delicate embolisation procedure to block the bleeding vessel in the lung. The minimally invasive procedure, conducted in the cath lab, successfully stopped the bleeding, ensuring a safe recovery for the infant.

Dr Aditya Kulkarni, Consultant- Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital said“This was an extremely rare case that presented several challenges. The bleeding did not originate from the digestive tract, as was initially suspected. The child was swallowing blood from the airways, which led to the appearance of dark stools. Respiratory causes for blood vomiting are highly uncommon and required extensive investigation. Performing a delicate embolisation procedure in a baby of this age demanded precision and expertise.”

Following the procedure, the baby showed remarkable improvement and was discharged after a seven-day hospital stay. She has not reported any further episodes of coughing blood, marking a successful outcome of the intervention. “This case exemplifies the power of collaborative medicine. Our team of gastroenterologists, pulmonologists and interventional radiologists at Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital worked together seamlessly to diagnose and treat a condition that could have had severe consequences if left undetected,” Dr Kulkarni stated.

Dr Zubin Pereira, Facility Director, Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital said, “This case presented an extraordinary diagnostic challenge, the successful treatment of which was made possible through a multidisciplinary approach using advanced diagnostic techniques and minimally invasive intervention. This achievement underscores our dedication to excellence in paediatric healthcare and our mission to bring hope to families facing complex and critical medical conditions.”

Bhendi Bazaar’s Green Leap: A Model for EV Integration and Sustainable Urban Living

Once a tightly packed, aging quarter of South Mumbai, Bhendi Bazaar is being reborn as a sustainable and future-ready urban space — thanks to the visionary redevelopment led by the Saifee Burhani Upliftment Trust (SBUT). At the heart of this transformation is a bold commitment to clean mobility and eco-conscious infrastructure. 

1. Leading with Electric Mobility

In a city where narrow lanes and dense traffic once left no room for structured parking, the Bhendi Bazaar redevelopment now integrates dedicated EV infrastructure — a first for such a historic precinct. The newly built Al Ezz tower features advanced parking solutions with EV charging stations for 40–50 two-wheelers and 10–20 four-wheelers, supporting India’s accelerating shift toward electric vehicles. 

This focus on green mobility aligns perfectly with India’s national climate goals and the broader global push for sustainable urban transport. By making space for EVs in its urban design, SBUT is laying the groundwork for a cleaner and smarter future. 

2. Built for Sustainability, Engineered for the Future

Sustainability is deeply em-bedded in every aspect of the Bhendi Bazaar project: 

  • Rooftop solar panels across the development are expected to generate over 600 kW of clean energy, reducing reliance on conventional power and lowering the carbon footprint. 
  • Rainwater harvesting systems and sewage treatment plants ensure water is used efficiently and responsibly. 
  • Garbage chutes and organic waste converters help in the effective segregation and recycling of wet and dry waste. 
  • Building orientation along the north-south axis minimizes heat gain, reducing the need for artificial cooling and enhancing energy efficiency. 
  • Over 700 native trees will be planted across the precinct, improving urban biodiversity and air quality. 

These features not only minimize environmental impact but also create a healthier, more liveable environment for residents. 

3. EV-Ready Roads and Smarter Infrastructure

The transformation also includes the redesign of formerly congested alleys into 18-meter-wide streets, built to accommodate increasing vehicular traffic, efficient parking layouts, and pedestrian-friendly spaces. These wider roads are not only easing mobility but also creating a platform for seamless transportation solutions to thrive in a high-density urban setting. 

4. A National Example of Green Urbanism

Recognized as a national best practice for inner-city redevelopment and receiving the FICCI Smart Urban Innovation Award for ‘Smart Infrastructure’, SBUT’s work in Bhendi Bazaar is being closely watched by planners across India. It exemplifies how EV readiness and sustainability can go hand-in-hand with social upliftment and cultural preservation

As India ramps up its clean energy goals and EV adoption accelerates, Bhendi Bazaar — and projects like Al Ezz — serve as living blueprints for how traditional neighbourhoods can transition into environmentally responsible, inclusive urban communities.

Astro ‘Sri Umesh combines his deep spiritual practices with his astrological expertise, providing holistic guidance to those who seek his counsel – INDIAN NEWS & TIMES

Astrologer Sri Umesh is a renowned and highly respected figure in the field of astrology, palmistry, tantra yoga, vastu, and spiritual guidance.

With an experience spanning over 50 years, he has dedicated his life to helping people find meaning, purpose, and guidance through the celestial sciences.

Born and raised in Patna, Sri Umesh discovered his deep fascination with astrology and spirituality at a young age.

His innate curiosity led him to explore various mystical realms and seek knowledge from the great masters of the field.

He firmly believes in the power of astrology to illuminate the path of individuals, providing them with insights into their lives and helping them make informed decisions.

Sri Umesh is the founder and director of Sri Umesh Astrology and Yoga Foundation, an esteemed institution that serves as a hub for individuals seeking astrological guidance and spiritual enlightenment.

Through his foundation, he has touched the lives of countless people, offering them solace, hope, and direction in their journeys.

With an unwavering devotion to the Almighty mother Durga, Sri Umesh combines his deep spiritual practices with his astrological expertise, providing holistic guidance to those who seek his counsel.

He believes in the harmonious interplay of the cosmic forces and their influence on human lives, and his profound understanding of tantra yoga allows him to bridge the gap between the physical and spiritual realms.

Sri Umesh’s journey in astrology took a significant turn when he was initiated into tantra by Divyananda Nandnath in Kamakhya.

This initiation bestowed upon him the sacred knowledge and wisdom that lies within the tantric tradition, enabling him to delve deeper into the mystical aspects of astrology and spirituality.

Further enhancing his astrological prowess, Sri Umesh acquired invaluable knowledge from Dr. Rampujan Tiwari, the former principal of Degree College Shanti Niketan, Vishwa Bharti University, West Bengal.

Dr. Tiwari, an eminent scholar and authority in the field of astrology, mentored Sri Umesh, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of the subject.

Astrologer Sri Umesh‘s commitment to his craft, coupled with his immense experience and profound wisdom, has earned him a reputation as a trusted and revered astrologer.

His clients, both in Patna and across the globe, seek his guidance to navigate through life’s challenges and uncover their true purpose.

He was awarded gold medal in International Conference in Indian Capital Delhi on 21/04/1996 . He has 1 son and 1 daughter both settled in U.S.A.

In addition to his astrological services, Sri Umesh is a proponent of holistic well-being and the harmonious balance between mind, body, and soul.

He encourages individuals to embrace yoga, meditation, and spiritual practices as a means of personal growth and self-realization.

For those interested in seeking his guidance, Sri Umesh can be reached at his mobile number: 9334339505. His website, www.omumesh.com, serves as a platform to access his astrological services and connect with him.

Astrologer Sri Umesh‘s journey is a testament to the transformative power of astrology and spirituality.

His profound insights, compassionate guidance, and unwavering dedication have touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on their paths towards fulfillment and self-discovery.

Courtesy : In Conversation with Astrologer ‘Sri Umesh, Founder and Director – Sri Umesh Astrology and Yoga Foundation,patna, Bihar , India

Diversity hiring has been a key focus, while organizations have tried to offer unique selling points (USPs) to differentiate themselves from multinational auto companies – INDIAN NEWS & TIMES

Taggd, a workforce solutions provider, has released its latest findings on hiring trends and employee onboarding in the manufacturing, retail, and automotive sectors. The findings reveal that organizations are focusing on connectivity and branding to attract and retain talent. Connectivity involves regular communication and engagement with employees to create a sense of belonging and satisfaction.

Whereas branding involves weekly LinkedIn updates and referral mailers to showcase the company culture and reputation. The findings also compares the JFM and AMJ quarters, highlighting the increase in niche hiring, especially in research and development roles.

Technology-related hiring, such as connected cars, advanced engineering, and automation, has also risen. Candidates are looking for remote working options and work flexibility offered by competitors. The demand for skills in electric vehicles (EV) and auto electrical, electronics, and mechatronics has surged, but meeting this demand has been challenging.

Diversity hiring has been a key focus, while organizations have tried to offer unique selling points (USPs) to differentiate themselves from multinational auto companies. The male-to-female ratio in these sectors is 10:1. Candidates expect remote working or work-from-home options, a 5-day workweek, and a minimum 40 percent salary hike. Tier 2 and tier 3 cities like Lucknow, Jamshedpur, Dharwad, and Pantnagar have seen more hiring activity, but metro city residents are reluctant to relocate there.

Fabindia Celebrates Onam with The Craft of Celebrations – INDIAN NEWS & TIMES

Fabindia invites customers to immerse themselves in the colours, traditions, and celebrations of the beautiful festival of Onam. They have launched an exclusive collection of handcrafted treasures of apparel and home décor. The collection- will be available for all customers in-store and online.

The curation includes handloom and Chanderi sarees embroidered with intricate jaal patterns designs in the quintessential hues of white and gold. It also features traditional ethnic wear like silk blend, cotton and linen kurtas with zari prints. Silk dupattas with gota patti and floral patterns, jaal weaves and sequins are also elegant additions to the collection. Floral-printed dresses will also be a fun addition to your celebratory wardrobe. Men can also choose from silk shirts and Kerala mundus. For children, we have colourful kurta sets and skirt sets that add an element of grace and elegance to the festivities.

Ajay Kapoor, President – Retail, Fabindia Limited said, “We are excited to present our customers with a curated range of authentic products that celebrate the essence of Onam. This year at Fabindia, we are bringing the crafts of India to Kerala.”

FabHome offers a diverse range of handcrafted home decor items, such as brass lamps, urlis and diyas, which will add radiance to the beautiful pookalams. Exquisite floral printed tea sets, fragrant incense sticks and Fabessential gift boxes are also excellent options. Perfect for gifting, they cast a warm glow, offering a regal touch to any abode.

This collection is a tribute to the spirit of giving and celebration during Kerala’s cherished harvest festival. Fabindia invites patrons to share the joy and beauty of the occasion through thoughtful and meaningful gifts. Make this Onam truly memorable.

Astral Foundation Celebrates National Girl Child Day by adopting a village near Dholka

On the occasion of National Girl Child Day, Astral Limited, through its CSR arm, Astral Foundation, hosted a special event today in Dholka, Gujarat. The event aimed to celebrate the spirit of girlhood and raise awareness about the importance of empowering and protecting the girl child, at the same time raising awareness about environment conservation.

The event witnessed the presence of Padma Shree Shyam Sunder Paliwal as a special guest, where Mrs. Jagruti Engineer, Director of Astral Limited, felicitated him for his outstanding contributions and pioneering work in advocating for the protection of the girl child, coupled with initiatives for water and tree conservation in Piplantri village, Rajsamand district, Rajasthan.

As part of its ongoing commitment to social responsibility, Jagruti Engineer announced the adoption of Vasna Keliya village near Dholka Ahmedabad where 111 trees will be planted by Astral Foundation on the birth of each girl child of the village. Emphasizing the sustainability of this initiative, the families collectively pledged to nurture the planted saplings until they reach full maturity, contributing to the flourishing green cover in these communities. This initiative aims to promote environmental sustainability while celebrating the birth of every girl child.

During the celebration, Mrs. Jagruti Engineer, Director of Astral Limited, and a driving force behind Astral Foundation’s initiatives, expressed her excitement about the event, stating, “National Girl Child Day is an occasion to reaffirm our commitment to the well-being and empowerment of the girl child. We are honored to have Mr. Shyam Sunder Paliwal, a beacon of inspiration, join us for this celebration. Astral Foundation is deeply committed to championing forward-thinking projects that bring about positive change in society.”

Padma Shree Shyam Sunder Paliwal, the special guest at the event, extended heartfelt gratitude to Astral Limited for the esteemed felicitation, he expressed, “Collaborating with Astral Limited has been a source of immense joy, particularly in extending the reach of our movement to new territories. Witnessing the empowerment of more girls through Astral’s adoption of Vasna Keliya is truly gratifying. At Piplantri, We run training programs for Sarpanch of villages from various places in our country. We invite Vasna Keliya Sarpanch and the team to Piplantri and study various projects and initiatives. Ultimately, our collective focus should be on overall development of the village as one entity.”

In 2023, Astral Foundation unveiled a short film showcasing the village of Piplantri and featuring the prominent Shyam Sunder Paliwal. The film beautifully captured the unique tradition of celebrating the birth of a girl child by planting 111 trees. The short film garnered widespread attention, quickly becoming viral and earning positive acclaim from the public.

Sri Mandir App Brings Divine Blessings to Devotees with Special Maha Shivratri offerings

Sri Mandir, India’s largest devotional platform, is honored to bring divine blessings closer to every devotee as this Maha Shivratri 2025 is a once in a lifetime event as it coincides with last Shahi Snan the of  Mahakumbh, a sacred confluence of immense spiritual power. Maha Shivratri, the night of Lord Shiva, is a time of deep devotion, prayers, and surrender, when millions seek His grace through fasting and sacred rituals. This year, as celestial forces align to create a rare spiritual gateway, Sri Mandir is unveiling special initiatives to help devotees connect with the divine energy from different corners of the world.

Marking the auspicious occasion, Sri Mandir has introduced a series of sacred offerings, ensuring that every devotee can immerse themselves in Lord Shiva’s grace. Key highlights include the Maha Shivratri Mahakumbh Last Shahi Snan Special Pujas , featuring Shiv Rudrabhishek and Rudra Homam at Triveni Sangam, believed to bring divine blessings and spiritual elevation, while the Maha Shivratri Jyotirlinga 4 Prahar Mahabhishek Special at Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga  allows devotees to engage in a night-long worship. Additionally devotees can participate in more special puja and chadava offerings and receive Mahadev’s blessings from 16+ sacred sites across 8+ cities. 

A particularly revered offering this year is the Narmadeshwar Shivling, an embodiment of Lord Shiva’s divine energy. Sourced from the holy Narmada River and spiritually energized at Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, this Shivling undergoes Abhishek, Mantra Jaap, and direct contact with the Jyotirlinga, ensuring it carries Lord Shiva’s purest blessings. To make this rare spiritual experience even more accessible, Sri Mandir has partnered with Blinkit, ensuring fast and convenient delivery of these divine offerings directly to devotees’ doorsteps. Additionally, Sri Mandir is delivering Mahakumbh Aashirvaad Boxes, bringing the essence of this once-in-lifetime celestial event into people’s homes. This Maha Shivratri is not just a festival—it is a sacred opportunity to surrender, seek Lord Shiva’s grace, and awaken the soul’s eternal connection with the Divine.

This Maha Shivratri is not just another celebration, it is a divine moment in history. The rare union of Maha Shivratri and Mahakumbh is a call from the universe, a chance to surrender ourselves completely to Lord Shiva’s boundless grace. At Sri Mandir, we are committed to making these sacred moments accessible to every devotee around the world, ensuring Maha Shivratri reaches all, no matter where they are. Through personalized pujas, sacred rituals, and the delivery of energized Shivlings, in partnership with Blinkit for fast and reliable delivery, our mission is to ensure that every devotee, regardless of distance, feels the presence of Lord Shiva in their hearts.” said Prashant Sachan, Founder of Sri Mandir

As the world prepares to witness the divine energy of Maha Shivratri and Mahakumbh together, Sri Mandir invites all devotees to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Embrace the sacredness of this celestial alignment, participate in the divine rituals, and receive the blessings of Lord Shiva like never before.