MrBeast Is Straight-Up the GOAT: Spillin the Hottest Tea on His 2025 Glow-Up (Read and Please Comment is it upto the GenZ's mark?)

Yo what's good fam, if you're still rotatin between the Gram and doomscrollin X at 3 a.m. you already know MrBeast, real name Jimmy Donaldson, is the final boss of YouTube. Bro is not just postin vids, he's out here movin like a cracked-out demon with unlimited lives. We talkin wild challenges that got the whole TL screamin "bet" from the couch, handin out private islands like they're buy-one-get-one Chipotle bowls, and turnin charity into content that slaps harder than a Drake diss track. Deadass, this man just crossed 100 billion total views, makin him the main character in a timeline full of NPC thirst traps. 2025 been a whole movie for the Beast squad though, sus allegations, insane wins, all the vibes. Let's spill this tea GenZ style cuz his bag is bussin and evolvin quicker than a Skibidi Toilet remix.

From Small-Town Cringe to World Boss Energy: The MrBeast Lore You Didn't Know You Needed

Imagine 2012, lil 13-year-old Jimmy in Greenville, North Carolina droppin the most cooked intro known to man. Fast forward and this man is countin to 100k on stream for 40 hours straight (brain rot activities), lettin himself get buried alive for clout, then droppin a real-life Squid Game with almost half a milli up for grabs. That's not growth, that's a full villain arc but make it wholesome. Bro went from zero to final form, bodyin the algorithm like it owes him money.

The cheat code? He doesn't chase clout, he manufactures entire universes. Squad deeper than your situationship's mixed signals, over 250 heads strong, droppin certified bangers every Saturday at noon ET that eat views for breakfast. Feastables chocolate that actually hits different, Lunchly meals so the kids stop tradin Flamin' Hot Cheetos for status, and Viewstats so creators can finally stop guessin what the algo wants. Oh and the philanthropy? Insane. 20 million trees planted, 30 million pounds of ocean trash deleted, 2k people walkin again, and he really adopted every shelter dog… twice. That's not clout chasin, that's big-dick energy with a halo. While everyone else is posin under ring lights cryin about their ex, Jimmy out here playin 4D chess with happiness.

2025 Been a Rollercoaster Fr Fr: Theme Parks, Apologies, and Haters in Shambles

Okay now let's get into the real juice, 2025 been poppin harder than a Prime bottle at recess. Biggest W? Bro yeeted an entire theme park into existence in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Beast Land launched November 13 and it's givin Hunger Games x Willy Wonka on a Red Bull IV drip. Rides based on his old challenges, real cash prizes over half a milli, and Saudis who ain't had cinemas till like yesterday are losin their actual minds, lines longer than your mom's group chat. Jimmy pulled up himself, energy on a thousand, and turned desert into Disneyland. Global takeover unlocked, that's how you move different.

But the streets been whisperin he's "fallin off" cuz views ain't hittin 200M+ like before. Jimmy saw the chatter and said bet, dropped the most real apology on X November 27: "Yeah my 2025 vids mid, I was cooked from grindin too hard, my bad." No PR script, just straight facts, then promised 2026 about to be the hardest content run of his life. Already teasin Beast Games Season 2 with the biggest LED floor known to man. If that's fallin off then I wanna fall too cuz the comeback already lookin demonic.

Of course the internet gotta internet, lawsuit poppin off about Beast Games contestants sayin they got done dirty, old clips resurfaced, timeline tried to cancel him for jokes from 2017. Jimmy been addressed it, said he's grown, doubled down on makin the workplace less toxic, and kept it pushin. Bro still sittin on a 700 million empire, faked buyin the entire NFL just to troll us (actually just promotin YouTube's free stream), and his old strategist even left to drop Palo, an AI that helps creators cook ideas faster than Uber Eats. That's still squad love fr.

Why MrBeast Still the Blueprint Even When the TL Acts Brand New

Keep it a stack: 2025 creator economy more oversaturated than a sold-out Travis Scott drop. Everyone got a ring light and a dream. But MrBeast? He's the Mozart of brain rot, turnin what should be clickbait into high art. His vids aren't content, they're events. That Saudi park? Exportin joy to places that need it most, puttin people on payroll, lettin kids live out the videos they grew up watchin. Post-pandemic we all starved for real happiness and Jimmy out here feedin the whole timeline.

Philanthropy so smooth you almost forget it's charity. Givin away islands like Pokémon cards, payin for blind and deaf people to get surgeries, buildin wells in Africa while sellin chocolate that funds the next giveaway. Haters call it tax write-offs, cool, still changed lives. In a world full of negative aura and doomer takes, MrBeast is the glitch that keeps hope alive, wrapped in fireworks and confetti cannons.

Final Boss Energy: 2026 About to Be Straight Demon Time

End of 2025 and MrBeast still eatin, still apologizin when he fumbles the bag, still plottin the biggest plays we've ever seen. Desert theme park? Done. Hundred billion views? Casually. Squad cookin AI tools for the next gen? Period. Let the haters hate, Jimmy too busy plantin trees and breakin records to check the mentions. If you not subbed yet what are you even doin with your life, go hit that bell, cop some Feastables, and lock in, 2026 finna be the biggest plot twist yet. MrBeast forever rewritin the rules, one cooked idea at a time. Drop your fave Beast moment below, let's keep the vibes high, we outside fr. 💥

#MrBeast, #MrBeast2025, #BeastLand, #MrBeastThemePark, #MrBeastApology, #BeastGames, #MrBeast100Billion, #MrBeastFallingOff, #MrBeastDrama, #MrBeastPhilanthropy, #Feastables, #Lunchly, #SquidGameIRL, #MrBeastRiyadh, #MrBeastSaudiArabia, #MrBeast2026, #JimmyDonaldson, #YouTubeKing, #GenZ, #ViralChallenges, #CreatorEconomy, #MrBeastLawsuit, #MrBeastComeback, #SkibidiToilet, #BrainRot, #BigDickEnergy, #GlobalTakeover, #DemonTime, #TL, #NPC, #Bussin, #NoCap, #FrFr, #Bet, #Periodt

Unveiling the Shadows: Why AghoriStories.com Stands as the Premier Portal for Authentic Aghori and Occult Exploration: a digital ashram by Maulikk Buch

 

In the labyrinthine world of online mysticism, where sensational headlines often eclipse genuine insight, AghoriStories.com emerges as a beacon of authenticity. Founded by Maulik Buch, a seasoned journalist, mystic, and paranormal researcher with over 30 years of immersive fieldwork, the site has solidified its position as the leading hub for occult research and real Aghori content. Buch's journey—spanning direct encounters with Aghoris, Kapaliks, Naga Sadhus, Tantriks, and even Voodoo practitioners—infuses every piece with unparalleled credibility. Far from the exploitative tropes peddled by commercial platforms, AghoriStories.com demystifies esoteric Indian traditions through a lens of scholarly rigor and narrative grace. As we mark the site's evolution into 2025, with fresh explorations bridging ancient Tantra and modern global esotericism, let's delve into the pillars that elevate it above the digital fray.

1. Authentic, Firsthand Aghori Insights: From Cremation Grounds to Cosmic Truths

What sets AghoriStories.com apart is its unyielding commitment to lived experience over armchair speculation. Buch's narratives aren't mere retellings; they're dispatches from the frontlines of spiritual extremity. Consider his raw account of booking a 3:30 a.m. flight to Varanasi amid personal crisis—a pilgrimage that thrust him into the heart of Aghori sadhana, forging bonds with ascetics who dwell in samshans (cremation grounds) and wield kapalas (human skulls) as vessels for transcendence.

The site's Aghor section unflinchingly portrays the Aghori lifestyle: ritual consumption of taboo substances not as macabre spectacle, but as alchemical rites for ego dissolution and moksha (liberation). Eyewitness videos of Yagna fire ceremonies, where flames dance with mantras to invoke Kaal Bhairav, offer viewers a visceral portal into these practices—rare glimpses captured without filters or fear-mongering. This approach dismantles Hollywood-fueled myths, positioning the site as an essential antidote for seekers disillusioned by superficial content. As Buch reflects in his writings, the Aghori path isn't about horror; it's a radical embrace of the "non-terrible" (aghor), challenging societal binaries to reveal universal oneness.

2. Comprehensive Occult Research and Comparative Mythology: Weaving Global Threads

AghoriStories.com transcends regional silos, delivering research that marries Tantric depth with cross-cultural analysis. The Tantra category unpacks the Dus Mahavidya—the ten fierce emanations of the Divine Feminine—as astrological balancers. A standout piece from 2025 details how invoking Baglamukhi quells adversarial forces or Dhumavati neutralizes Rahu's chaos, complete with step-by-step Puja vidhis, Beej mantras, and scriptural nods to texts like the Rudrayamal Tantra. These aren't rote rituals; they're presented as practical tools for cosmic equilibrium, blending Vedic astronomy with psychological insight.

The site's genius lies in its comparative lens. The "Real Stories" section hosts a 2025 research crux tracing a 4,000-year mythological family tree, linking Norse Thor's hammer (Mjolnir) to Indra's thunderbolt (Vajra)—a testament to Indo-European roots shared across continents. Similarly, "Western Aghori" explores North American occultism, from Hoodoo's ancestral echoes to energy vampirism motifs paralleling Aghori lore on psychic predation. This global tapestry invites readers—be they Vedic scholars or pagan enthusiasts—to uncover shared human quests for the divine, all grounded in Buch's fieldwork from Ujjain's ancient origins to Rishikesh's contemporary enclaves.

3. Diverse, Multimedia Content Library: A Tapestry of Tales and Truths

With over 100 articles spanning narrative fiction, historical deep dives, and empirical research, AghoriStories.com's library is a meticulously curated archive. Organized into intuitive sections—Aghor for sect origins and salvation arcs; Tantra for ritual-science intersections; Horror Stories for myth-busting yarns (e.g., the true cultural genesis of Voodoo dolls); Real Stories for evidentiary probes; Yakshini for profiles of ethereal guardians; and Aghori Videos for immersive footage—it caters to every shade of curiosity.

Spotlights include tributes to luminaries like the 15th-century Virupaksha Baba, whose miracles embodied Shiva's boundless grace, and profiles of a centenarian Varanasi Aghori, whose boundary-shattering sadhana underscores the sect's enduring vitality. Recent 2025 additions amplify this richness: a poignant essay on Lord Hanuman's esoteric ties to the Mahavidyas, revealing the monkey god as a Tantric ally in devotion; an ode to Chamundeshwari Devi as the fierce Yogini of metamorphosis; and a nuanced dissection of Maa Kali's manifold forms, from wrathful avenger to benevolent mother, laced with invocatory mantras for personal empowerment. Multimedia elevates it further—embedded videos of Aghori rites provide a sensory bridge, transforming passive reading into participatory enlightenment, a feature rivals envy but rarely replicate.

4. Accessibility and Educational Mission: Empowering the Seeker Within

Buch's prose is a masterclass in elucidation: arcane philosophies, like Aghor's rejection of duality against Shaivism's ascetic rigor or Vaishnavism's devotional purity, unfold with crystalline clarity yet retain their esoteric fire. This democratizes the occult, welcoming novices while challenging adepts. Eschewing alarmist narratives, the site champions Aghor as a catalyst for self-realization—tools for harmonizing inner shadows with universal light, as seen in guides to Haridra Ganesh's Tantric significance for prosperity amid adversity.

Ongoing vitality shines through 2025's X promotions and a sleek, mobile-optimized interface, ensuring it's no dusty relic but a living dialogue. Buch's 30-year milestone in Rishikesh—marked by Aghori mentorships and psychic healing—fuels this momentum, with fresh content like Bhairav's reciprocal "choosing" of devotees underscoring the site's interactive ethos.

In an era rife with occult misinformation, AghoriStories.com isn't merely indispensable—it's transformative. More than a blog, it's a digital ashram, inviting you to confront the mysteries that bind us all. For the uninitiated, begin in the Aghor category; for the initiated, lose yourself in the Western Aghori weaves. In Buch's words, drawn from decades in the shadows: the path to truth demands courage, but yields eternity. Dive in—and emerge renewed.

The History of the Gaekwads of Baroda

The Gaekwads (also spelled Gaekwar or Gaikwad) were a prominent Hindu Maratha dynasty that ruled the princely state of Baroda (modern Vadodara, Gujarat) from the early 18th century until India's independence in 1947. Emerging as military commanders in the Maratha Empire, they transformed Baroda into one of British India's wealthiest and most progressive states, renowned for its cotton trade, rice, wheat, and sugar production. The dynasty's rulers, titled Maharaja Gaekwad of Baroda, enjoyed a 21-gun salute and managed relations with the British through the Baroda Residency. Their legacy endures in Vadodara's architecture, institutions, and cultural heritage.

Origins and Foundation

The Gaekwads originated from a Maratha clan in present-day Maharashtra, traditionally ranked as Kshatriyas (warriors). Their family name is believed to derive from "Gāyakavāḍa," possibly linked to "gae-kaiwari" (protector of cows), reflecting their pastoral and martial roots.

The dynasty's founder, Pilaji Rao Gaekwad (r. 1721–1732), was a Maratha general who initially served under the Dabhade family, the senapatis (commanders-in-chief) of the Maratha Confederacy in Gujarat. In 1721, Pilaji Rao conquered Baroda city from the declining Mughal Empire and received it as a jagir (grant) from Chhatrapati Shahu I. He established his base at Songadh fortress and expanded control through campaigns against Mughal governors, eventually securing territories south of the Mahi River, including Baroda, Champaner, and parts of Surat. Pilaji died in battle on 14 May 1732, laying the foundation for Gaekwad power in Gujarat.

His son, Damaji Rao Gaekwad (r. 1732–1768), consolidated this power. Initially allied with the Dabhades, Damaji switched allegiance to the Peshwa (the Maratha prime minister) after a defeat in 1751, receiving the title of Shamsher Bahadur and authority over Gujarat. He expelled remaining Mughal forces with Peshwa support and fought in the Third Battle of Panipat (1761) alongside other Maratha leaders. After the Marathas' defeat at Panipat, which weakened Peshwa authority, the Gaekwads became virtually independent rulers while nominally recognizing the Peshwas and the Bhonsle Chhatrapati of Satara.

18th-Century Consolidation and Internal Conflicts

The late 18th century was marked by family rivalries and power struggles. Successive rulers included:

Sayaji Rao I (1768–1778)

Fateh Singh Rao I (1778–1789)

Manaji Rao (1789–1793)

Govind Rao (1793–1800)

These reigns saw frequent interventions by the Peshwas to settle disputes, often dividing revenues between rival brothers. The Gaekwads participated in the First Anglo-Maratha War (1775–1782) against the British but emerged relatively unscathed.

In 1802, during the reign of Anand Rao Gaekwad (1800–1819), the British intervened to protect him from rivals, leading to the Treaty of Cambay. This agreement recognized Gaekwad independence from the Maratha Confederacy while accepting British suzerainty and granting internal autonomy—a pragmatic arrangement that ensured stability amid the declining Maratha power.

Subsequent rulers like Sayaji Rao II (1819–1847), Ganpat Rao (1847–1856), and Khande Rao (1856–1870) maintained alliances with the British, expanding the state's economy through agriculture and trade.

The Crisis of Succession and the Deposition of Malhar Rao

After Khande Rao's death in 1870 without issue, his brother Malhar Rao Gaekwad (r. 1870–1875) ascended the throne. His rule was tyrannical and corrupt; he was accused of misgovernance and attempting to poison the British Resident. In 1875, a British commission deposed him, marking a rare direct intervention in a princely state.

The British selected a distant relative, 12-year-old Gopalrao from the cadet branch in Kavlana village, who was adopted by Maharani Jamnabai (widow of Khande Rao). Renamed Sayajirao Gaekwad III (r. 1875–1939), he would become the dynasty's most illustrious ruler.

The Golden Age: Sayajirao Gaekwad III (1875–1939)

Sayajirao III's 63-year reign transformed Baroda into a model progressive state. Educated under British tutor Frederick Elliot and influenced by reformers, he introduced groundbreaking policies:

Compulsory free primary education (1910, the first in India)

Bans on child marriage and untouchability practices

A modern library system, banks, and textile mills

Extensive infrastructure, including the Gaekwar's Baroda State Railway (Asia's largest narrow-gauge network at the time)

He founded the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda and patronized arts, commissioning works from Raja Ravi Varma and supporting scholars like B.R. Ambedkar with scholarships for studies abroad. Architecturally, he commissioned the opulent Laxmi Vilas Palace (completed 1890), an Indo-Saracenic masterpiece four times larger than Buckingham Palace.

Sayajirao navigated British relations skillfully, earning honours like GCSI and GCIE, while subtly supporting Indian nationalism—he famously offered only a slight bow to King George V at the 1911 Delhi Durbar. His reforms made Baroda a beacon of modernity, with high literacy and industrial growth.

Later Rulers and the End of Princely Rule

Sayajirao III was succeeded by his grandson, Pratap Singh Rao Gaekwad (r. 1939–1951, titular until 1968). In 1947, Baroda acceded to independent India, formally merging into Bombay State in 1949. Pratap Singh served briefly as Rajpramukh (governor) of the united state.

Later titular heads included Fatehsinghrao Gaekwad (1951–1988), Ranjitsinh Gaekwad (1988–2012), and the current head, Samarjitsinh Gaekwad (since 2012).

List of Maharajas of Baroda

1. Pilaji Rao Gaekwad (1721–1732) – Founder; conquered Baroda

2. Damaji Rao Gaekwad (1732–1768) – Consolidated power in Gujarat

3. Sayaji Rao I (1768–1778)

4. Fateh Singh Rao I (1778–1789)

5. Manaji Rao (1789–1793)

6. Govind Rao (1793–1800)

7. Anand Rao (1800–1819) – Treaty of Cambay (1802)

8. Sayaji Rao II (1819–1847)

9. Ganpat Rao (1847–1856)

10. Khande Rao (1856–1870)

11. Malhar Rao (1870–1875) – Deposed by British

12. Sayajirao III (1875–1939) – Greatest reformer

13. Pratap Singh Rao (1939–1951) – Last ruling Maharaja

(Titular heads continued after 1949.)

Legacy

The Gaekwads' wealth—once estimated in billions today through investments and jewels like the Star of the South diamond—made them India's richest royal family for generations. Their palaces, museums, and universities in Vadodara stand as testaments to their vision. Though princely privileges ended in 1971, the family remains influential in culture, sports (cricket administration), and philanthropy. The Laxmi Vilas Palace, still family-owned, symbolizes their enduring grandeur in modern India.

Surabhi: The Fragrance That Turned Postcards into a National Phenomenon

In the 1990s, when Indian homes had just one television set and Sunday mornings belonged undisputedly to Doordarshan, a gentle voice would announce: "Namaste… swagat hai aapka Surabhi mein."  

And with that simple greeting from Siddharth Kak and Renuka Shahane's warm smile, millions of Indians were transported into a weekly celebration of their own country's astonishing diversity.

Surabhi was never just a television programme. It was a national movement disguised as a cultural magazine show.

From remote villages in Manipur to fishing hamlets in Kerala, from the apple orchards of Himachal to the tea gardens of Assam, people sat down on the floor in front of black-and-white sets (or the prized new colour ones) to watch ordinary Indians doing extraordinary things with their heritage. A potter in Kumartuli shaping Durga idols. A Theyyam dancer in full trance. A Baul singer lost in ecstasy. A master weaver in Kanchipuramaking silk speak. Surabhi didn't just show India to Indians – it made every viewer feel that the entire country was one large joint family.

And the family wrote back. In lakhs.

In 1993, a single week saw 14 lakh postcards flood the Surabhi office – a deluge so massive that the Andheri post office in Mumbai ran out of storage space. Siddharth Kak later recalled getting frantic calls from postmasters: "We have no place to keep them, no vans to deliver them!" He ended up hiring tempos himself to ferry sacks of mail. The humble 15-paise inland letter and postcard, meant originally for farmers' schemes, was being "misused" on an industrial scale by an entire nation desperate to participate in a TV quiz.

India Post, in an unprecedented move, created an entirely new category: the ₹2 Competition Postcard, specially designed for quiz shows and contests. It remains one of the few instances in world postal history where a television programme literally forced a national postal service to invent a new product.

That record-breaking 14 lakh letters in one week earned Surabhi a proud entry in the Limca Book of Records – still unbeaten for the highest documented viewer response in Indian television history.

What makes the phenomenon even more extraordinary is that nobody planned it.

There were no marketing budgets, no SMS voting, no social media campaigns, no TRP anxiety, no celebrity endorsements (except the utterly butterly delicious Amul girl who quietly sponsored the show for years). There was only sincere storytelling, two hosts who treated viewers like extended family, and content so rich that people felt compelled to respond – with ink, paper, and a 25-paise stamp (later ₹2).

Every week the show ended with Renuka Shahane reading out letters: a child from Nagaland sending a drawing, a grandmother from Rajasthan sharing a folk recipe, a college student in Shillong suggesting a topic. Winners received prizes as simple as a book or a cassette, yet the joy of seeing your name on national television was priceless. Surabhi turned passive viewers into active participants in cultural preservation.

The show ran gloriously from the early 1990s to 2001 (with a brief pause in 1991), clocking over 415 episodes – making it the longest-running cultural programme in Indian television history. It moved homes from Doordarshan to Star Plus in its final years, but its heart remained firmly in that simple DD studio where Siddharth Kak and Renuka Shahane sat cross-legged on the floor, as if they were in your living room.

Today, when algorithms decide what we watch and outrage travels faster than light, Surabhi feels like a gentle reminder of a kinder time – when a television show could unite a billion people not through controversy, but through curiosity, pride, and love for their own culture.

On World Television Day, we salute Surabhi – the fragrance that still lingers in the hearts of everyone who ever rushed to buy a postcard on Sunday evening, carefully wrote their quiz answers in the best handwriting they could manage, and posted it with a prayer on Monday morning.

Because somewhere in this country, there are still cupboards and old trunks where yellowing Surabhi postcards are kept like treasured family heirlooms.

And that, more than any TRP or award, is the real record that will never be broken.

#WorldTelevisionDay #Surabhi #IndianCulture #Nostalgia #Doordarshan #SiddharthKak #RenukaShahane #ClassicTV #IncredibleIndia

Kyoto: The Eternal Heart of Japan That Still Whispers to the Soul

In a country that races toward the future with bullet trains and towering skylines, Kyoto remains the quiet, unbreakable thread connecting modern Japan to its ancient soul. With 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, over a thousand temples and shrines, and traditions that have endured for centuries, this former imperial capital is where time slows down and beauty becomes almost overwhelming. Here, golden pavilions shimmer on mirror-like ponds, vermilion torii gates climb sacred mountains, and geiko (the correct Kyoto term for geisha) glide through lantern-lit alleys as they have for generations.

Whether draped in delicate pink cherry blossoms in spring or ablaze with crimson maples in autumn, Kyoto is Japan at its most poetic.

Your Perfect 7-Day Kyoto Journey

 Day 1 – Arrival & First Taste of Magic

Land at Kansai International Airport (KIX) and take the speedy Haruka Express straight to Kyoto Station – an architectural marvel in itself. Drop your bags and head immediately to Fushimi Inari Taisha. Arriving in the late afternoon means you'll catch the famous thousands of vermilion torii gates bathed in golden hour light with far fewer crowds. Begin the climb through the tunnels of gates; even if you only go halfway up Mount Inari, the atmosphere is spellbinding. End your first day with a gentle walk through Southern Higashiyama – the streets of Ninenzaka and Sannen-zaka feel like stepping onto the set of a samurai film, with wooden machiya houses and tiny shops selling everything from matcha sweets to handmade ceramics.

 Day 2 – Bamboo Cathedrals and Riverside Serenity

Rise early for Arashiyama on Kyoto's western edge. The moment you step into the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove at opening time, you'll understand why it's one of the most photographed places in Japan – sunlight filters through towering green stalks, creating an otherworldly cathedral of bamboo. Visit the UNESCO-listed Tenryu-ji Temple and its sublime garden, then cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. A short hike up to the Iwatayama Monkey Park rewards you with mischievous snow monkeys and panoramic views over the city. In the evening, wander narrow Pontocho Alley – one of the most atmospheric dining streets in Japan – where lantern-lit restaurants overhang the Kamogawa River and the air smells of charcoal-grilled yakitori.

# Day 3 – Golden Splendor and Zen Mastery

No visit to Kyoto is complete without witnessing Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. Its top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf and its reflection in the mirror-like pond is one of Japan's most iconic images. From there, a short taxi ride brings you to Ryoan-ji, home of the world's most famous rock garden – fifteen stones arranged so that only fourteen are visible at once, inviting centuries of contemplation. Continue to the elegant Ninna-ji temple complex before ending your day with a peaceful walk along the Philosopher's Path, a cherry-tree-lined canal named after the 20th-century philosopher Nishida Kitaro who meditated here daily.

Day 4 – Geisha, Views, and Temple Nights

Wake before dawn and position yourself quietly in Gion's Hanamikoji Street – if you're lucky and respectful, you may glimpse geiko and maiko hurrying to early appointments in full traditional dress. Then climb to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, whose massive wooden stage juts out over the hillside offering sweeping views across Kyoto. In the evening, visit nearby Kodai-ji Temple for its spectacular night illuminations (available spring and autumn) – the gardens, tea houses, and bamboo grove are lit dramatically, and the reflection of the moon on the pond is pure magic.

Day 5 – Nara: Kyoto's Ancient Neighbor

Take a 45-minute train ride to Nara, Japan's first permanent capital. Walk through Nara Park where over a thousand semi-tame deer bow for treats. Marvel at Todai-ji Temple and its colossal bronze Great Buddha (Daibutsu) – one of the largest in the world – housed in the largest wooden building on earth. Stroll beneath thousands of stone and bronze lanterns at Kasuga Taisha Shrine, then return to Kyoto in the late afternoon, pleasantly exhausted from a perfect day trip.

 Day 6 – Silver Serenity and Mountain Temples

Explore northern Kyoto beginning with Ginkaku-ji, the Silver Pavilion. Though it was never actually covered in silver, its understated elegance and exquisite moss garden embody wabi-sabi beauty. Wander to the tiny, tranquil Honen-in Temple (often missed by tour groups), then take a bus to Ohara, a rural valley north of the city. Sanzen-in Temple here is pure paradise – sit on the veranda overlooking gardens of moss and maple while sipping matcha and listening to monks chanting in the distance.

Day 7 – Final Flavors and Fond Farewells

Spend your last morning at Nishiki Market – Kyoto's 400-year-old "kitchen." Sample everything from baby octopus stuffed with quail egg to freshly roasted tea and handmade yatsuhashi sweets. If time allows, join a traditional tea ceremony experience or simply wander the covered arcades one last time. From Kyoto Station, the airport express will whisk you back to Kansai International in under 75 minutes.

When to Go

Late March to early April for cherry blossoms that transform the entire city into a dreamscape of pale pink, or November when the autumn foliage turns Kyoto into a blazing palette of red, orange, and gold. Both seasons are peak, so book accommodations six to twelve months in advance.

Kyoto is not just a destination – it is a feeling. It's the sound of wooden geta sandals on stone paths at dawn, the scent of incense drifting from ancient temples, and the quiet realization that some beauty is so profound it can bring tears to your eyes.

In Kyoto, ancient Japan doesn't just survive. It breathes, deeply and eternally.

Cashaa Introduces a New Era in Digital Asset Banking: Unveils Deobanking Whitepaper

Cashaa defines a new self-sovereign financial ecosystem built on user ownership and autonomy
The whitepaper presents Cashaa's next-generation Deobanking infrastructure designed to replace custodial banking with an autonomous user-controlled model

New Delhi, 19^th November 2025: Fintech pioneer Cashaa has released its whitepaper on the Deobanking solution, presenting a structured approach to decentralized finance built on regulatory compliance, user control, and transparency. The paper outlines the company's evolution from business banking services to a model centered entirely on self-sovereign finance enabled through Cashaa's Deobanking self-sovereign wallet infrastructure.

"Cashaa is continuing towards its original mission to build a decentralised self-sovereign financial system where no company, no bank, no government and no custodian can decide whether you can access your own money. This next era is called Deobanking (Decentralised Autonomous Banking) and Cashaa is leading it," said Amjad Raza Khan, Founder and CEO of Cashaa.

The Deobanking model introduced in the whitepaper details a non-custodial wallet system that allows users to manage both crypto and fiat currencies while retaining full ownership of their private keys. It offers a secure and inclusive structure that blends the discipline of regulated banking with the independence of decentralized finance, borderless remittances to over 130 countries and Visa-powered crypto cards for spending at 100+ million merchants worldwide.

"Today BlackRock, Fidelity, global banks and sovereign governments are all in crypto. Crypto companies can finally get banking directly from institutions which gives us a sense of closure. Now we need to empower end users therefore with Deobanking we are putting ownership back in the hands of individuals. This whitepaper shows how decentralized finance can be transparent secure and rewarding for every user. We must remember that the only financial system that cannot collapse is one where users hold their own keys." added Amjad Raza Khan.

Cashaa already provides its flagship Earn program which delivers up to 26 percent annualised returns on stablecoins and up to 18 percent on crypto for top-tier participants, while the Borrow program offers instant collateral-backed loans with LTV ratios up to 90 percent, giving users flexibility and control during the transition toward a fully autonomous model. These benefits are structured through a loyalty system where users' CAS token holdings determine their tier, enabling access to higher Earn yields, preferential Borrow rates, and additional fee waivers.

In the new Deobanking ecosystem CAS token will witness an increase in its utility through tiered cashbacks, spending limits on crypto card spends, fee discounts on global remittance and much more.

The whitepaper also outlines the issues with traditional banking and centralized crypto exchanges, how Cashaa intends to address these issues through its Deobanking infrastructure, along with plans to broaden asset support, enhance CAS token utility, apart from introducing decentralized finance tools like self-sovereign wallets, Visa-powered crypto cards and borderless remittances. Through this publication, Cashaa contributes to the broader dialogue on how regulated frameworks can coexist with decentralized financial systems, aiming to set a benchmark for secure and transparent participation in the digital economy.

Download the full whitepaper at
https://cashaa.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Cashaa-Whitepaper.pdf

 

Cashaa was founded in 2016 with a simple yet powerful belief that people should truly own their money. It began by using Bitcoin to make cross-border transfers instant and accessible across emerging markets in Asia and Africa, and quickly grew into a platform reimagining how individuals interact with global finance. Cashaa has supported over 500 companies, including some of the biggest platforms in the world like Binance, Paxful, Nexo and others across Asia, Africa, Europe, and LATAM providing them access to banking rails when no bank would even allow them into the lobby. Today, Cashaa with its Deobank model, is building a secure non-custodial wallet infrastructure that lets users control their private keys, manage both crypto and fiat seamlessly, and transact across more than 130 countries, merging the discipline of regulated banking with the independence of decentralized finance. To know more, visit: https://cashaa.com/

BPE Strengthens Leadership with Pallavi Mishra as Chief People Officer

New Delhi, November 19, 2025: BPE (Best Power Equipments), a trusted leader in power solutions for over 25 years, has officially announced the appointment of Ms. Pallavi Mishra as Chief People Officer (CPO). This strategic onboarding underscores BPE& commitment to building a world-class enterprise by attracting top talent in HR, as it expands and fosters a people-first culture during a period of rapid growth.

Ms. Mishra has a distinguished 22-year career dedicated to transforming human resources in global companies. She is competent in all phases of HR, particularly with client transitions, internal and external audits, vendor management, and managing complex legal and POSH matters. A significant milestone in her career involved the HR operations & transition from a manual to a fully automated and streamlined process.

She has dealt with all the HR functions across well-known global brands such as Hewlett-Packard, Oracle, NTT DATA, Thoughtworks, and CBRE. Ms Mishra brings all these past skills and experiences with her to provide strategic and operational value for even greater organisational excellence for BPE.

Amitansu Satpathy, Founder and Group Managing Director, BPE, noted, "Ms. Mishra & demonstrated ability to navigate HR transformation, paired with her extensive experience leading organisations around the world, aligns well with BPE & vision for an engaged, agile, future-focused workforce. Her leadership will be absolutely critical to developing talent, enhancing operational effectiveness, and delivering against our aggressive growth plans." 

Upon her appointment, Ms. Mishra stated, "This is a thrilling time to be joining BPE in its evolution. The company & focus on innovation, quality, and customer success is palpable. I am excited to bring my experience in developing high-performing teams and simplified HR structures to BPE. Together with BPE & talented professionals, we will strive - create a culture of excellence that fuels long-term success"

As Ms. Pallavi Mishra joins the team, BPE continues to accelerate its mission to enable mission-critical applications, with an emphasis on people being the focal point of its global growth strategy. The company is committed to providing innovative, reliable power solutions and maintaining long-term partnerships around the world.

About Best Power Equipment's (BPE):
Best Power Equipments (BPE) is a pioneering Indian MNC providing end-to-end strategic power solutions for the past two and a half decades. Founded by Mr. Amitansu Satpathy in 2000, at a time when power was one of the biggest issues grappling India, the company has over the years expanded its footprint to at least 14 countries. One of the largest suppliers of UPS solutions worldwide, the INR 500-crore company is also a go-to destination for end-to-end data center capabilities. With a complete suite of Made-in-India products and end-to-end power solutions, BPE has been serving leading names from across industries and sectors, such as Axis Bank, ICICI, HDFC, Airtel, Dominos, Reliance, Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, Airtel etc. With product lines including UPS (range 600VA up to 8MW), Precision Air Conditioner, Power Distribution Units, Server Cabinets, Smart Racks, Battery EnergyStorage System (up to GW) as well as Power Environmental Monitoring System, Best Power Equipments has created an indelible mark across verticals such as BFSI, Industrial & Manufacturing Applications, Government projects, Telecommunication, Medical, Retail, Data Centres and IT Network Servers.

NEWME becomes 1st Fashion brand to launch quick commerce exclusive collection

~ZIP exclusive collection is a major boost for quick commerce, and the brand expects it to positively impact the fashion industry~

Bengaluru, 17th November, 2025: NEWME today announced two significant updates to its quick-fashion service, NEWME Zip, making Bengaluru the first city in India to access round-the-clock delivery and an exclusive limited-edition fashion drop created only for ZIP users.

The 60-minute delivery service, which has grown steadily since its launch in Bengaluru, saw a sharp rise in late-night orders over the past few months. Many users asked if they could receive their outfits before stepping out the next morning — a pattern that kept repeating across ZIP's data and consumer feedback. In response, NEWME has extended ZIP to a 24x7 service in Bengaluru. All orders placed until 10 PM will now be delivered before 10 AM.

"Gen Z doesn't shop on a schedule. They browse at midnight, make plans at the last minute, and expect fashion to match their pace," said Sumit Jasoria, Co-Founder and CEO, NEWME. "We started seeing a lot of early-morning fashion urgency — people wanting a new outfit before college, work, or an event. Extending ZIP to 24x7 was the natural next step, and we've rebuilt parts of our ops to make it work sustainably."

To support the extended hours, NEWME has reworked its operational model using smart batching, dynamic routing, and intelligent allocation across its dark-store network. These updates aim to maintain delivery speed without pushing up operational costs — a common challenge in quick commerce.

Alongside the service expansion, NEWME has launched the first-ever ZIP Exclusive Collection, a limited-edition set of trend-forward designs released only on NEWME ZIP and available in very small quantities: 5 designs, 50 pieces each. The drop is rooted in a strong Gen Z insight — the desire to own statement pieces that feel personal, limited, and culturally relevant.

The collection is available only in Bengaluru for now, and NEWME says it will explore similar drops in other ZIP cities based on demand and relevance.

"With this drop, we wanted to celebrate the culture of our community — the thrill of owning something unique, and the excitement of getting it instantly," Jasoria added.

NEWME Zip currently offers over 1,500 styles for near-instant delivery and is part of the brand's broader strategy to build India's most responsive, youth-first fashion ecosystem.

About NEWME:

Founded in 2022 by Sumit Jasoria, Vinod Naik, Shivam Tripathi, and Himanshu Chaudhary, NEWME targets more than 500 Mn Gen Z customers in India and Southeast Asia. NEWME believes in the transformative power of technology to enhance designs and solve for accessibility and affordability in fashion. The brand genuinely celebrates the spirit of self-expression and individualism among youth and offers thousands of designs and trends to choose from every day. The carefully curated collection of trendsetting products, released weekly, aims to empower youthful, raw, and high-energy consumers, meeting their desire to be their 'NEWME' every day.

New Cyclone Threat Looms Over Bay of Bengal: Next 48 Hours Critical, Says IMD

DNCA News Desk

18 November 2025

A new weather system brewing in the Bay of Bengal has put coastal regions of eastern India on high alert, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning that the next 48 hours will be decisive in determining the intensity and track of a potential cyclonic storm.

According to the IMD, a low-pressure area currently over the southeast Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify further as it moves west-northwestward over the next two days. The system is expected to concentrate into a depression and possibly a cyclonic storm, drawing energy from the warm sea surface temperatures typical of the region in November.

"The coming 48 hours are extremely crucial. During this period, it will become clear how intense the system will become and which coastal states will bear the maximum impact," an IMD official stated.

Coastal areas of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha** are likely to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by strong gusty winds in the coming days. Rough to very rough sea conditions are anticipated, with wave heights expected to rise significantly if the system intensifies into a depression or beyond.

Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea along the east coast until further notice.

The IMD highlighted that November cyclones in the Bay of Bengal often undergo rapid intensification due to favorable oceanic and atmospheric conditions. Recent examples of fast-developing storms have prompted authorities to remain extra vigilant.

"Many systems formed in the Bay of Bengal have turned into severe cyclonic storms within just a few hours. Keeping this in mind, we have advised all coastal states to strengthen advance preparedness," the weather department said.

The low-pressure system was marked on November 22, and critical updates regarding its development and probable landfall zone are expected within the next 24 to 48 hours.

The entire nation is closely monitoring the evolution of this new weather system and its potential impact on the eastern coastline.

Further updates from the IMD are expected shortly. Coastal residents are urged to stay tuned to official weather bulletins and follow instructions from local authorities.

Stay safe, stay informed.

Chaos at Ahmedabad Airport: 180 Furious Passengers Chant "Hai Hai SpiceJet" After Dubai Flight Cancelled Twice!

DNCA REPORTER, AHMEDABAD:In a massive uproar at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, around 180 frustrated passengers raised slogans of "Hai Hai SpiceJet" and vented their anger as their Dubai-bound flight was cancelled not once — but effectively twice in one night due to technical glitches and massive delays.

The nightmare began with SpiceJet flight SG015, originally scheduled to depart at 4:20 PM for Dubai. The aircraft, arriving from Kolkata, landed over 2 hours and 10 minutes late at 6:30 PM. Exhausted passengers were finally boarded — only to sit inside the plane for nearly 30 minutes before being informed of a technical snag. The flight was abruptly cancelled, and all 180 passengers were deboarded and brought back to the terminal.

Fuming passengers, many of whom had been waiting since afternoon, erupted in anger, shouting slogans against the airline and accusing SpiceJet of irresponsible and unreliable service.

As if that wasn't enough, the airline arranged an alternative flight from Varanasi scheduled to depart for Dubai at 10:30 PM. But even after 11 PM, the replacement aircraft hadn't arrived. Check-in and boarding hadn't even started, leaving passengers stranded for over 7-8 hours.

Among the affected travellers were three friends from Naroda, Ahmedabad — Jaymin Patel, Ankit Joshi, and Amit Patel — who were excitedly travelling to Dubai for the first time on vacation. Speaking to the media, they expressed deep disappointment and anger over SpiceJet's "careless and faulty" service.

This incident comes shortly after Ahmedabad passengers faced similar harrowing experiences on London-bound flights, once again putting SpiceJet under severe criticism for poor operational reliability.

Passengers are now demanding answers, compensation, and better accountability from the budget airline.

Guns Blaze Near Somnath Temple: Gujarat SMC Foils Bishnoi Gang Arms Deal, Shootout Leaves Sharpshooter Injured, 4 Arrested

 

DNCA REPORTER Bilimora, Navsari – In a dramatic late-night operation, Gujarat's State Monitoring Cell (SMC) clashed with members of the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang in a fierce exchange of fire near Mini Somnath Temple in Bilimora on Monday night. Four accused, including an injured sharpshooter, were arrested and three country-made pistols along with 27 live cartridges were seized.

According to police sources, SMC received specific intelligence that two Haryana and Madhya Pradesh-based operatives of the Bishnoi gang had arrived in Bilimora to deliver weapons to their local Rajasthan-based associates. The buyers – Manish Kaluram Kumawat and Madan Gopiram Kumawat – were staying at a hotel, while the suppliers – Yash Singh (Haryana) and Rishabh Ashok Sharma (Madhya Pradesh) – were waiting in the parking area of Ganeshdev Mahadev Temple.

SMC team first nabbed the two Rajasthan-based receivers from the temple parking and during interrogation learned that Yash Singh and Rishabh Sharma had gone to the nearby Mini Somnath Temple for darshan.

When the SMC team reached the temple premises, the armed gang members attempted to flee. Yash Singh, a designated sharpshooter of the Bishnoi gang, opened fire on the police team. In self-defense, SMC Police Inspector Chandrashekhar Panara retaliated, hitting Yash Singh in the leg.

Two rounds were fired in the exchange. The injured Yash Singh was immediately rushed to the government hospital in Mangoshi where his condition is now stable. After treatment, he was formally placed under arrest along with the other three accused.

The arrested individuals are:

- Yash Singh Sundar Singh (Haryana) – injured sharpshooter

- Rishabh Ashok Sharma (Madhya Pradesh)

- Manish Kaluram Kumawat (Rajasthan)

- Madan Gopiram Kumawat (Rajasthan)

All four accused have been taken to Gandhinagar under heavy security for further interrogation. The daring operation has once again exposed the expanding reach of the Bishnoi gang into Gujarat for arms trafficking.

85th AGM of Baroda Cricket Association Concludes Successfully Amid Strong Support for Leadership

DNCA REPORTER,Vadodara, November 11, 2025 – The 85th Annual General Meeting of the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) was held today at Vadodara with an impressive turnout of 517 members, reflecting the deep engagement and enthusiasm of the cricketing fraternity in the city.

The meeting was graced by the presence of several prominent personalities, including many leading members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Indian National Congress, senior advocates and leading lawyers of Vadodara, distinguished members of the Polo Club who remained present in large numbers, industrialists, and social leaders.

The cricketing legends and stalwarts of Baroda cricket also marked their strong presence, including former India wicket-keeper and ex-chief selector Kiran More, former India all-rounder Atul Bedade, renowned coach Mr. Mehndi Sheikh (who has coached international stars Irfan Pathan and Yusuf Pathan), and several former Ranji Trophy players such as Rakesh Parikh, Vasudev Patel, Khagesh Amin, Geeta Gaekwad, and Mangla Babar.

Among other notable attendees and leading supporters of BCA were:

Mr. Chirayu Amin

Mr. Amit Goradia and Mrs. Geeta Goradia

Mrs. Tejal Amin

Mr. Bharat Patel (Former Chairman & Managing Director, Procter & Gamble)

Mr. Minesh Patel and Mr. Hemant Patel from United Way of Baroda

The entire Apex Committee of the BCA was also present, lending further weight to the proceedings.

The AGM was addressed by BCA President Mr. Pranav Amin, Vice President Mr. Anant Indulkar, Secretary Mr. Ajit Lele, and Treasurer Mr. Sheetal Mehta. The leadership highlighted the remarkable progress made by the association, particularly the successful completion of the world-class Vadodara International Cricket Stadium at Kotambi and the hosting of WPL matches in 2025.

Despite attempts by a small group led by Mr. Darshan Banker to disrupt the proceedings, the overwhelming majority of the 517 members present extended rock-solid support to President Mr. Pranav Amin. Every resolution was passed unanimously, reaffirming complete faith in the current leadership and its vision for Baroda cricket.

In a major announcement that sent waves of excitement across the gathering, it was confirmed that Barodians will soon witness a men's international One-Day International between India and New Zealand live at the Kotambi Stadium – marking the return of top-tier men's international cricket to Vadodara after more than 15 years.

The magnificent Kotambi Stadium, delivered exactly as promised by Mr. Pranav Amin, has already established itself as one of India's finest venues. Since its grand opening in December 2024, it has successfully hosted international women's ODIs and multiple high-profile Women's Premier League (WPL) matches awarded by the BCCI in 2025 – a testament to the BCA's growing stature at the national level

The AGM concluded on an extremely positive and celebratory note, with members expressing unwavering confidence in Mr. Pranav Amin's leadership and excitement for the bright future of cricket in Baroda. With international cricket returning to the city and world-class infrastructure now in place, Vadodara is firmly positioned as one of Gujarat's premier cricketing hubs.

Inferno at the Fort: Deadly Car Bomb Shatters Delhi's Historic Heart, 10 Lives Lost in Terrifying Blast Near Red Fort

New Delhi, November 10, 2025 – In a chilling assault on the nation's capital, a high-intensity explosion ripped through a Hyundai i20 car near Gate No. 1 of the iconic Red Fort Metro Station on Monday evening, claiming at least 10 lives and injuring over 24 others in a scene of utter carnage that evoked memories of India's darkest terror strikes.The blast, which occurred around 6:52 PM as the vehicle slowed at the Subhash Marg traffic signal in the bustling Chandni Chowk area, sent shockwaves through the crowded old quarters, engulfing nearby vehicles in flames and scattering debris across the historic landmark.

Eyewitnesses described a nightmare unfolding in seconds: "We heard a big sound. Our windows shook," one resident recounted, while an auto driver mere feet from the epicenter said the car "was about two feet away... it exploded." Another horrified local shopkeeper trembled as he recalled, "Felt we were all going to die," amid reports of body parts strewn on the road and a severed hand lying in the chaos.The force was so immense that street lights blacked out, windows shattered kilometers away at ITO, and no crater formed at the site – a peculiar detail fueling speculation about the explosive used.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, arriving at the scorched site and later visiting Lok Nayak Hospital where the injured fought for life, declared a no-holds-barred probe:

 "We are investigating from every angle... NSG, NIA, and forensic teams are on the ground, scrutinizing all CCTV footage." Shah confirmed the blast originated in the Haryana-registered i20, originally owned by a Gurugram resident named Salman who sold it over a year ago to Devender in Okhla – both now detained for questioning as authorities trace the ownership chain. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, briefed immediately by Shah, expressed profound grief: "Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones... Those affected are being assisted."

The timing has raised alarms – mere hours after a massive haul of 2,900 kg explosives and arms from a Kashmiri doctor's home in Faridabad, and on the eve of Bihar's crucial assembly polls. While officials stress no direct link yet, former DGP A K Jain warned of possible "splinter groups" from recent terror arrests in Gujarat, UP, and Haryana. A live bullet found at the scene and the absence of typical bomb craters have intensified scrutiny.

Panic rippled nationwide: High alerts in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Punjab, Bihar, Uttarakhand, Tamil Nadu, and beyond, with ramped-up checks at airports, metros, railways, and temples like Ayodhya's Ram Mandir.

Leaders across the spectrum mourned: President Droupadi Murmu offered condolences, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called it "painful and disturbing," while opposition figures like Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi termed it "deeply saddening."

Government of Himachal Pradesh and redBus Join Hands with VisionSpring Foundation to Bring Clear Vision to Remote Himalayan Communities

 

● Eye-Screening of thousands will be conducted across Shimla and Kinnaur districts and eyeglasses will be provided to those who require them.

● Awareness on the need for clear vision will be created across the state of Himachal Pradesh. 

● The program was launched on World Sight Day 2025 at an event in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, attended by ministers, senior government officials, the private sector, and medical experts.

● To screen more than 5,000 people in remote Himalayan Communities.

Shimla, India, 13th October 2025: Government of Himachal Pradesh along with redBus, the world's largest online bus ticketing platform, and VisionSpring Foundation, are extending vision care services to underserved Himalayan communities, aiming to reach 5,000 people through eye screenings, eyeglasses dispensing, eye care referrals, and awareness campaigns in Himachal Pradesh, India.

Government of Himachal Pradesh and redBus is supporting this initiative, which is part of VisionSpring Foundation's broader mission to address the 55-crore people across India who lack the eyeglasses they need to see clearly, including 30 lakh people in Himachal Pradesh with limited or no access to eye care. Eyeglasses are a proven, cost-effective solution, increasing earning potential by up to 33.4% and boosting productivity by up to 32%. Clear vision can also enhance learning outcomes for children in schools and make roads safer for drivers and transport workers.

From 9 October to 18 October 2025, VisionSpring Foundation team, government officials, eye health experts, and school children from across the world will trek across the Himalayas, visiting important and remote areas in Shimla and Kinnaur districts such as Shimla, Rohru, Jiskun, Jakha, Rupin Pass, Reckong Peo, and Sangla. The eye-screenings will also be conducted for communities in Chitkul, which is the first village of India, and for drivers on some of the most dangerous roads in the world across the two districts, especially near Reckong Peo. The objective is to take the gift of clear vision through eyeglasses and eye care to these remote and underserved and raise awareness about the importance of clear vision in the state. The intervention has already started and will continue after the completion of the trek.

Through this initiative, VisionSpring Foundation will provide eyeglasses as part of its: See to Earn program - Equipping working-age adults to increase productivity and income; See to Learn program - helping students improve academic performance; See to be Safe program - Helping commercial vehicle drivers and allied transport workers to drive safely on the mountainous roads.

Building on the Legacy of Clear Vision

The trek also marks a return to the roots of VisionSpring's mission. Jordan Kassalow, the founder of the mission, first began his journey through a trek in the mountains almost two and a half decades ago. This is where he got the inspiration to help people see well by providing them access to eyeglasses. The trek reaffirms the commitment of the VisionSpring mission to ensure that every person has the simple but life-changing gift of clear vision.

Dr. Jordan Kassalow, Founder of VisionSpring's Mission, said: "For more than two decades, VisionSpring's mission has been driven by a simple belief: everyone has the right to see clearly, no matter where they live. The Clear Vision Trek will bring life-changing eyeglasses across some of the most challenging terrain on earth to reach people who need it the most. Every step we take through the Himalayas will not only test our strength but remind us of the greater purpose we share. We're grateful to the Government of Himachal Pradesh, and other partners for helping us turn the spectacular Rupin Pass into a pathway of hope and clear vision for thousands of people."

The Clear Vision Trek - Himalayas (Rupin Pass 2025) was launched at an event in Shimla by the Mr. Sanjay Guppta, Chief Secretary, Government of Himachal Pradesh,. The event was a part of the World Sight Day 2025 celebration in the state. World Sight Day is observed annually on the second Thursday of October (October 9 for 2025) and is a global event meant to draw attention to blindness and vision impairment. The event was attended by ministers, senior government officials, corporates, NGOs, eye care professionals, medical experts, healthcare fraternity, and important dignitaries. The Government of Himachal Pradesh, National Programme for Control of Blindness & Visual Impairment (NPCBVI), redBus, VisionSpring Foundation, World Health Organization (WHO), and Indiahikes are some of the key partners in this initiative.

Mr. Anshu Taneja, Managing Director, VisionSpring Foundation, said: "People in the remote communities in the Himalayas have limited access to eye care, with the majority of people never having had their vision screened before. As we trek across the majestic Rupin Pass, we're excited to take the gift of clear vision to thousands of people, most of whom will receive eyeglasses for the very first time. Eyeglasses are a simple but life-changing intervention, and we're proud that through this initiative will provide the wonder of clear vision to those who need it the most."

Honorable Chief Secretary of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Sanjay Guppta, said: "We commend the efforts of such reputed organisations in partnership with the Government of Himachal Pradesh to conduct eye-screenings and provide eyeglasses to those who need them in some of the most hard-to-reach communities in Himachal Pradesh. Clear vision is essential to help enhance productivity, efficiency, and learning outcomes. It is also vital to maintain quality of life and ensure road safety, particularly in a hilly state like ours. This initiative will not only make a real difference to thousands of people but also create mass awareness in the state about the need for eye-screening, eyeglasses, and eye health. Our government is glad to partner on this important noble initiative, and we wish the trekkers and the eye-screening teams a safe and productive adventure."

Prakash Sangam, CEO, redBus said, "At redBus we have always been committed to innovation and inclusion in ground transport, and these core principles are extended in this initiative. We are very pleased to support Vision Springs in this worthy cause, as they focus on helping underserved communities. We hope that this trek helps in creating a future where people from the Himachali communities receive the tools and support they need to thrive."

Find out more about how you can support the trek here.

ENDS

 

About VisionSpring's Misson:

VisionSpring is a pioneering social mission creating access to eyeglasses for low-income adults and children. Annually in India, VisionSpring reaches more than 27 lakh (2.7 million) people with eye-screenings and corrects the vision of more than 12 lakh (1.2 million) people with eyeglasses. On average, 73% of the program participants get their first-ever pair of eyeglasses through the See to Earn, See to Learn, and See to be Safe programs. To date, VisionSpring, through its mission, has distributed approx. 9.5 million (95 lakh) pairs of corrective eyeglasses in India, creating more than $3 billion (approx. Rs. 27,000 crore) in economic impact for low-income people.

The mission delivers eye health across 28 Indian states, working with more than 1,000 hospitals/healthcare facilities and NGOs, 15 state governments and agencies, and 65 corporates/CSRs

Kerala hosts the First Regional Consultation on Reforming Secondary Education for Southern States of India

THIRUVANTHAPURAM : UNICEF, in collaboration with Government of Kerala, convened the South Regional Consultation on Secondary Education Reform today.

The consultation brought together senior government officials, civil society organisations, academia, donors, development partners, teachers and students from Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Telangana. Participants deliberated on ways to make secondary education more accessible for all students and raise its quality.

Secondary education is critical for preparing adolescents for life, work and citizenship. While India has achieved near-universal primary education, only three in four adolescents aged 14 to 17 nationally are enrolled in school, with varying ratio across states.

The rates are even lower among the poorest, Scheduled Tribe, Scheduled Caste and minority students. , A total of 2.8 million children nationally did not transition to higher secondary education in 2024-25. The situation in South India illustrates that schooling does not automatically translate into learning. Even though the region exceeds the national average for enrolment and transition to higher secondary, learning outcomes remain low, with Grade 9 students scoring an average of only 38 to 56 per cent across subjects.

Speaking at the consultation, V. Sivankutty, Hon'ble Minister for General Education, Government of Kerala, emphasized the importance of bridging these gaps and said, "Kerala's success in human development and education is built on a simple principle — every child, regardless of who they are or where they come from, must have the opportunity to learn and succeed. Secondary education is a turning point in a young person's life. We must ensure that our schools are well-resourced, inclusive, and ready to prepare our adolescents for the future."

UNICEF is supporting the government for the ongoing secondary education reforms to benefit every adolescent equitably, with particular attention to girls, children with disabilities and those from marginalized and remote communities.

Dr. Saadhna Panday, Chief Education, UNICEF India, underscored that such a focus is imperative for inclusive social and economic development: "Investing adequately and equitably in secondary education for India's 165 million adolescents is investing in India's future. Research shows that completing secondary school lowers risks of child marriage, early pregnancy and child labour, while yielding social returns above 10 per cent and increasing incomes by 10 per cent per additional year of schooling."

The Secondary Education Reform process aims to unlock these benefits through system-wide transformation. Participants at the consultation affirmed a shared commitment to solutions and innovations, grounded in evidence, across four key areas: using data to guide planning and targeted financing; expanding safe, inclusive school infrastructure to increase access and support student retention; enhancing teacher capacity through continuous professional development and stronger management; and designing curriculum, materials and learning pathways that build 21st century skills, aligned with labour market needs.

Together, these commitments contribute to a comprehensive approach to secondary education reform, ensuring that changes are systemic and sustainable. "When education systems are well-governed and adequately funded, every child can complete schooling with purpose — ready to learn, earn, and contribute meaningfully to society and the economy." said K L Rao, Chief, UNICEF Office for Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

The consultation reaffirmed that achieving equitable secondary education for all requires whole-of-society partnerships which engage government, private sector, academia, and civil society. The southern states have shown that such collaboration can effectively advance inclusive, skill-based education, with Kerala's success in technology-enabled classrooms, community engagement, and teacher empowerment recognized as a model for replication. Through partnerships with the Ministry of Education and state governments, UNICEF continues to support efforts to strengthen and scale such solutions through evidence generation, strengthened capacity for data use and targeted plans.

About the Consultation Series

The Southern Regional Consultation is part of a series of regional multi-stakeholder dialogues informing the National Secondary Education Reform Framework, which will guide India's education system from 2025 to 2030. UNICEF, in partnership with state governments, will continue to convene these regional consultations to chart a roadmap for transforming secondary education, facilitating pathways for every adolescent to complete 12 years of quality education, equipped with skills for life and work. The outcomes of the consultations will help shape recommendations for equitable access, quality learning, and sustainable financing across India.

About UNICEF  

UNICEF strives to uphold the rights of every child, protecting them from harm and all forms of discrimination, so that they can grow up healthy and educated to reach their full potential. This work is in line with UNICEF's globally recognized mandate and its support of national priorities.    

For more information on UNICEF India and its work visit https://www.unicef.org/india/.