DDUGU Becomes First University in Eastern Uttar Pradesh to Launch Work-Linked Degree Programs

Gorakhpur, 13th August 2025: Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University (DDUGU) has taken a pioneering step in higher education by becoming the first university in Eastern Uttar Pradesh to launch Work-Linked Degree Programs, in partnership with TeamLease EdTech, India's leading learning and employability solutions company.

The university has introduced five programs under this initiative: BBA, B.Com (Hons), MA English, MBA, and M.Com (Hons), comprising two undergraduate and three postgraduate programs. These programs are specially designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world industry exposure, enabling students to "learning by doing" and "earning while learning."

Through these programs, students will gain valuable work experience alongside their education, significantly enhancing their employability in the region and contributing to the development of a future-ready workforce. The curriculum has been carefully crafted to be flexible and industry-aligned, ensuring that students acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical skills without compromising academic rigour.

Prof. Poonam Tandon, Vice Chancellor of Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University, expressed her enthusiasm about the launch, "This is a proud moment for the university. The launch of Work-Linked Degree Programs reflects our commitment to the vision outlined in the National Education Policy 2020, which advocates for integrating education with hands-on experience. By enabling students to work while they study, we are fostering holistic, employability-focused education that empowers our youth and contributes to the development of Uttar Pradesh."

Mr. Shantanu Rooj, Founder and CEO of TeamLease EdTech, added, "We are delighted to partner with Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University in launching these unique programs. The future of higher education lies in integrating work and learning, and DDUGU is leading the way. This model not only improves learning outcomes but also ensures that students become financially independent and professionally prepared while still studying."

These Work-Linked Degree Programs align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises the integration of vocational education and on-the-job training within formal degree frameworks. With this launch, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University has positioned itself at the forefront of educational innovation in the region.

Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University, founded in 1950, is the first university in Uttar Pradesh to emerge as a leading higher studies centre after Independence. It has earned an A++ accreditation from NAAC for its relentless pursuit of its motto, "Let the noble thoughts come to us from all directions," which reflects its openness to diverse perspectives, cultures, and values in its academic and organizational spheres.

The university bears the name of the eminent political philosopher, Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya. It is situated in Gorakhpur, where it draws inspiration from the spiritual, philosophical, patriotic, and philanthropic heritage of Gautam Buddha, Sant Kabir, Guru Gorakshnath, Bismil, Hanuman Prasad Poddar, and the world-famous Gita Press.

The university spans 190.96 acres and comprises eight faculties with forty departments that have been instrumental in providing holistic education to the people of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Western Bihar, and Nepal since its inception. As a residential-cum-affiliating State University with academic jurisdiction over three districts of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, it boasts of a rich academic legacy, distinguished alumni, competent, qualified, and committed faculty members, a transparent and efficient administrative system, ample career growth opportunities, advanced research facilities, and a lively and secure campus.

TeamLease EdTech is India's leading Learning and Employability solution company. It helps universities launch, run and manage their own Online/ODL Programs, improve the employability of their students through its apprenticeship programs and helps employers build talent supply chains along with improving employee productivity. Through its cloud-hosted, mobile-first, managed services platform, TL EdTech provides a wide range of services - enrollment, learning, upskilling, apprenticeships, student support and assessment - helping customers improve access and learning outcomes. TeamLease EdTech has exclusive partnerships with over 60 of India's largest Universities and Premier Institutions across 16 Indian states, and it trains 7 Lakh students on its platform through 9 Indian languages, works with 1200 corporates in their upskilling/skilling initiatives and manages over 200 degree, diploma, and certificate programs.

From a Rs 2000 Room to a Retail Empire: The Inspiring Growth Story of Vijay Sales

In the bustling streets of Mumbai, where dreams often collide with the harsh realities of urban life, one man's vision transformed a modest Rs 2000 investment into a sprawling electronics retail empire. Vijay Sales, a household name in consumer electronics across India, embodies the quintessential rags-to-riches tale of perseverance, innovation, and customer-centric business acumen. Founded in 1967 by Nanu Gupta in a tiny 200-square-foot room in Mahim, the company has evolved from a humble television and appliance showroom into a multi-chain network spanning multiple states, boasting over 150 stores and billions in revenue. Today, as we trace its journey, Vijay Sales stands as a testament to how strategic growth, family legacy, and adaptability can propel a small venture to national prominence.

The Humble Beginnings: A Borrowed Dream Takes Root

Nanu Gupta, born in 1942 in Punjab and relocating to Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1954, started his entrepreneurial journey with grit and determination. Before venturing into retail, he worked as a distributor for Usha electric fans, gaining invaluable insights into the consumer goods market. In 1967, armed with just Rs 2000 borrowed from family and friends, Gupta opened Vijay Television Store in Mahim, a cramped space that initially sold sewing machines, fans, and transistors. This modest setup, often referred to as the Rs 2000 room, was far from glamorous, but it laid the foundation for what would become a retail powerhouse.

The early years were marked by slow but steady progress. By 1972, the store expanded its offerings to include black-and-white televisions at a new location in Matunga, capitalizing on the growing demand for home entertainment. The real turning point came in 1982 with the introduction of color televisions, which coincided with a market boom in India as television broadcasting expanded. Gupta's strategy was simple yet effective: prioritize customer satisfaction through honest dealings, competitive pricing, and exceptional service. He would personally visit customers to resolve complaints and kept TV sets switched on in the showroom to draw in passersby, creating an inviting atmosphere that fostered loyalty.

The company was formally registered in 1976, and in 1981, it was rebranded as Vijay Sales, reflecting its broadening scope beyond televisions. It took over two decades to open the second branch, a testament to Gupta's cautious approach to growth. In 1986, the first expansion occurred with a 600-square-foot store in Bandra, followed by outlets in Shivaji Park (700 sq ft) and Sion (1500 sq ft) in 1994. By the mid-2000s, Vijay Sales had 8-10 stores in Mumbai and introduced innovative display concepts, allowing customers to interact with products, a novel idea at the time that set it apart from competitors.

The Expansion Era: Scaling New Heights

The true acceleration of Vijay Sales' growth began after 2007, when the company shifted from a Mumbai-centric operation to a regional powerhouse. Expansions into Pune, Surat, Delhi, and Ahmedabad marked the beginning of its multi-city presence. By 2010, the chain had ventured into Gujarat and the National Capital Region (NCR), tapping into emerging markets with rising disposable incomes and a burgeoning middle class.

A pivotal milestone came in 2019 with the acquisition of Tirumala Music Center (TMC), a consumer durables retail chain in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Rebranded under Vijay Sales, this move significantly boosted its footprint in southern India, adding stores in Hyderabad, Vijayawada, and Warangal. Today, the network spans Maharashtra, Gujarat, Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, with showrooms designed to cater to diverse budgets and preferences. Each store offers over 5000 products across more than 15 categories, from smartphones and laptops to home appliances and audio systems.

Family involvement has been crucial to this expansion. Nanu Gupta's son, Nilesh Gupta, joined in 1992, bringing operational expertise, while another son, Ashish Gupta, contributed modern management insights. In 2019, grandson Karan Gupta entered the fray, focusing on digital transformation and omni-channel retail, leveraging the company's e-commerce platform (vijaysales.com) to blend online and offline experiences, especially vital post-pandemic.

Current Achievements: A Modern Retail Giant

As of 2025, Vijay Sales operates approximately 157 stores nationwide, employing around 8000 people and maintaining a robust supply chain with well-connected warehouses. The company's revenue has soared to around Rs 11000 crores, a staggering leap from its humble origins, with ambitions to reach 200 stores by the end of the year. This growth is underpinned by strong partnerships with global brands, efficient post-sales services, and a commitment to affordability, making high-quality electronics accessible to millions.

Vijay Sales' success isn't just in numbers; it's in its enduring ethos. From keeping showrooms spotless and products demo-ready to offering flexible payment options and doorstep deliveries, the company has built a loyal customer base that spans generations.

Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Innovation

The story of Vijay Sales is more than a business narrative; it's an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. From that Rs 2000 room in Mahim, which has now expanded to a 40000-square-foot landmark, to a multi-chain network driving India's retail revolution, Nanu Gupta's vision continues to thrive through his family's stewardship. As the company eyes further digital integration and market expansions, Vijay Sales is poised to double its sales in the coming years, proving that with honesty, hard work, and adaptability, even the smallest beginnings can lead to extraordinary heights. In an era of rapid technological change, Vijay Sales remains a beacon of reliable growth, illuminating the path for India's retail future.

The Importance of Social Communication in the Social Media and Digital Age

In the digital age, social communication has evolved dramatically, with social media platforms and digital tools reshaping how we connect, share, and interact. From instant messaging to posts on platforms like X, social communication is no longer confined to face-to-face conversations b


ut extends across virtual spaces, transcending geographical boundaries. This transformation has made effective social communication more critical than ever, influencing relationships, professional success, cultural understanding, and societal progress. This article explores the importance of social communication in the context of social media and the digital age, highlighting its benefits, challenges, and strategies for thriving in this interconnected era.

Fostering Connection in a Digital World

Social media platforms like X, Instagram, and WhatsApp have redefined how we build and maintain relationships. These tools allow individuals to stay connected with friends, family, and communities across the globe, sharing updates, ideas, and emotions in real time. A quick message or a thoughtful comment can strengthen bonds, even when physical distance separates people. For instance, a 2024 study by Pew Research found that 68% of adults reported feeling closer to loved ones through regular interactions on social media.

However, digital communication lacks the nonverbal cues—such as tone of voice or facial expressions—that enrich in-person interactions. This can lead to misunderstandings, like misinterpreting a text's tone or overlooking sarcasm in a post. Effective social communication in the digital age requires clarity, empathy, and mindfulness to ensure messages are received as intended. By choosing words carefully and using tools like emojis or video calls to add context, individuals can foster meaningful connections online.

Amplifying Professional Opportunities

In the professional realm, social communication on digital platforms is a game-changer. Social media sites like LinkedIn and X enable networking on an unprecedented scale, allowing individuals to connect with industry leaders, share expertise, and discover opportunities. A well-crafted post or a thoughtful comment on a professional's thread can spark collaborations or job offers. According to a 2023 LinkedIn report, 85% of jobs are filled through networking, much of which now occurs online.

Moreover, businesses leverage social media to engage with customers, build brand loyalty, and address concerns. Effective communication—such as responding promptly to customer inquiries or crafting engaging content—can enhance a company's reputation and drive growth. For individuals and organizations alike, mastering digital communication skills, such as tailoring messages to specific audiences and maintaining professionalism online, is essential for success in the digital age.

Bridging Cultures and Perspectives

Social media has created a global village, where people from diverse backgrounds can share ideas and learn from one another. Platforms like X enable real-time discussions on topics ranging from politics to culture, fostering cross-cultural understanding. For example, a user in one country can engage with a post from another continent, gaining insights into different perspectives. This exchange promotes empathy and reduces cultural barriers, as individuals encounter new viewpoints and challenge their assumptions.

However, the diversity of digital spaces also presents challenges. Miscommunication can arise from cultural differences in language or humor, and polarizing discussions can escalate quickly. Effective social communication requires cultural sensitivity, such as researching local customs before engaging with international audiences or avoiding assumptions about others' intentions. By approaching online interactions with openness and respect, individuals can build bridges across cultures.

Navigating Challenges in Digital Communication

While social media enhances connectivity, it also introduces unique challenges. Misinformation spreads rapidly, as seen in viral posts that lack context or accuracy. A 2025 report by the World Association for Social Media Studies noted that 60% of users have encountered misleading content online, underscoring the need for critical thinking. Effective communicators verify information before sharing and engage in constructive dialogue to counter misinformation.

Another challenge is the risk of "digital overload," where constant notifications and interactions lead to stress or disengagement. The pressure to respond instantly or maintain an online presence can strain mental health. Balancing digital and offline communication—such as setting boundaries for screen time or prioritizing in-person connections—helps maintain well-being while staying connected.

Online etiquette, or "netiquette," is also crucial. Trolling, aggressive comments, or oversharing can damage relationships and reputations. Practicing kindness, respecting privacy, and avoiding heated arguments in public forums are key to maintaining positive interactions. For example, a polite disagreement in a comment thread, backed by facts, is more likely to foster discussion than a confrontational rant.

 Driving Societal Change

Social communication on social media has become a powerful tool for societal change. Movements like #MeToo and climate activism have gained momentum through viral hashtags and shared stories, uniting millions around common causes. Platforms like X amplify voices that might otherwise be marginalized, enabling grassroots campaigns to influence policy and public opinion. For instance, in 2024, a global environmental campaign on social media led to increased funding for renewable energy in several countries.

Effective communication is critical to these efforts. Clear, compelling messages—whether a viral video or a well-written post—can inspire action and mobilize communities. Activists and organizations must craft messages that resonate emotionally while providing actionable steps, ensuring their calls for change are heard and acted upon.

Strategies for Effective Social Communication

To thrive in the digital age, individuals must adapt their communication skills to the unique demands of social media. Here are some strategies:

- Be Clear and Concise: Online attention spans are short. Use simple language and get to the point quickly.

- Add Context: Emojis, GIFs, or multimedia can clarify tone and intent, reducing misunderstandings.

- Engage Authentically: Share genuine thoughts and respond thoughtfully to others' posts to build trust.

- Practice Digital Literacy: Verify sources before sharing and critically evaluate content to avoid spreading misinformation.

- Respect Boundaries: Avoid oversharing personal details and respect others' privacy in public forums.

- Adapt to Platform:  Tailor communication to the platform's norms—professional posts on LinkedIn, casual updates on X, or visual content on Instagram.

In the social media and digital age, social communication is a vital skill that shapes relationships, careers, and societal progress. It enables connection across distances, amplifies diverse voices, and drives change, but it also demands new skills to navigate challenges like miscommunication and misinformation. By mastering clear, empathetic, and culturally sensitive communication, individuals can harness the power of digital platforms to build meaningful connections and contribute to a more inclusive, informed world. In an era where a single post can reach millions, effective social communication is not just a skill—it's a superpower that shapes our shared future.

THE ARTICLE IS CONCEPTUALIZED AND WRITTERN BY MAULIK BUCH -THE  FIRST SOCIAL COMMUNICATION MENTOR OF INDIA.

The Troubling Side of DigiYatra: Privacy, Security, and Implementation Woes in India's Airport Biometric System

In an era where technology promises seamless experiences, India's DigiYatra initiative stands out as a bold attempt to revolutionize air travel. Launched by the Ministry of Civil Aviation in December 2022, DigiYatra is a facial recognition technology-based system designed to enable contactless, paperless boarding at airports. Passengers upload their Aadhaar-linked details, selfies, and boarding passes to the app, allowing biometric verification at entry points, security checks, and gates. As of mid-2025, it boasts over 15 million users and operates at 24 airports, with plans to expand into a full-fledged Digital Public Infrastructure supporting 22 Indian languages. Proponents hail it as a time-saver, reducing queues and enhancing efficiency. However, beneath the veneer of convenience lie significant issues that have sparked widespread criticism, including privacy breaches, technical failures, coerced enrollments, and questionable management practices. This article delves into these concerns, drawing on reports, user experiences, and expert analyses.

Privacy Concerns: Surveillance in the Skies?

One of the most persistent criticisms of DigiYatra revolves around data privacy. The system collects highly sensitive biometric data, facial scans tied to personal identifiers like Aadhaar numbers and travel details, which raises alarms about potential misuse and surveillance. Critics argue that DigiYatra operates on a flawed model of consent, where users may not fully understand the implications of sharing their data. For instance, the policy allows access to passenger information by security or government agencies, with data retention periods that can be adjusted, fueling fears of unchecked state surveillance.

Privacy advocates have highlighted loopholes in data handling. A 2024 report noted that while the DigiYatra Foundation claims data is stored on users' devices and deleted after 24 hours from airport systems, there are no robust guardrails against misuse by private entities involved in the ecosystem. The integration of facial recognition technology has been likened to a surveillance tool rather than a service, with concerns that it could lead to unfair exclusions or profiling. Moreover, the Digital Personal Data Protection Act of 2023, which governs such systems, has been criticized for inadequate enforcement, leaving room for excessive data collection without clear opt-out mechanisms.

User reports on social media amplify these worries. Many have questioned how a program using unrestrained facial recognition technology at airports is managed, especially given India's lack of comprehensive data protection regulations tailored to biometrics. In one analysis, experts argued that DigiYatra needs greater individual control over data to comply with privacy standards, amid reports of surreptitious enrollments.

Data Security Breaches and Vendor Controversies

Security lapses have further eroded trust in DigiYatra. In April 2024, the app underwent a sudden overhaul: users were forced to download an entirely new version, scrapping the old one. This was not just a tech upgrade, it stemmed from an alleged scam involving the original vendor, Dataevolve Solutions. The company, which handled the app since 2021, was implicated in a money laundering case by the Enforcement Directorate. Shockingly, Dataevolve operated the app on its own infrastructure, not the government's, violating data security protocols. As a result, personal data of over 3.3 million users, including facial biometrics, ended up owned by this tainted private entity.

The incident sparked outrage, with calls for the Ministry of Civil Aviation to clarify how such a critical system was outsourced to a one-person company run by the son of a police officer. Earlier, in 2022, fake apps mimicking DigiYatra exploited package name mismatches, allowing malicious actors to pose as the official app and potentially steal data. These breaches underscore broader cybersecurity risks, especially as DigiYatra scales up. A 2025 academic paper warned of data breach potentials in the system, emphasizing the need for stricter compliance.

Technical Glitches: Convenience or Chaos?

Despite promises of hassle-free travel, DigiYatra has been plagued by technical issues that frustrate users. At Kolkata Airport, travelers reported difficulties uploading boarding passes, defeating the app's purpose of expediting processes. Flight delays often render the app useless, displaying errors like "you are too late," forcing passengers back to manual queues. QR code failures at entry points, such as "Wrong Seat No." errors, have been common, with users blaming integration issues between airlines and the app.

Inclusivity is another pain point. Facial recognition technology systems like DigiYatra have shown inaccuracies for women, people of color, and those with certain facial features, contradicting the goal of seamless travel. Passengers denying permission for DigiYatra have faced repeated boarding pass rejections at security gates, highlighting systemic biases. These glitches not only waste time but also create unnecessary segregation, with long queues forming in DigiYatra lanes as adoption grows.

Consent and Coercion: Voluntary or Forced?

DigiYatra is marketed as optional, but ground realities tell a different story. Social media is rife with complaints of coercion, where airport staff, often private volunteers, push enrollments without proper consent. Despite assurances from Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia that consent is mandatory, passengers report being funneled into DigiYatra lanes or enrolled surreptitiously. This defective model of consent compromises autonomy, especially when spyware-like access to devices is alleged.

A 2024 Hindu explainer detailed privacy loopholes, including how data deletion policies are unclear, leading to concerns over indefinite retention. NITI Aayog has urged more user control, but implementation remains spotty.

Expansion Plans: Scaling Up Risks?

As DigiYatra eyes Digital Public Infrastructure status, critics warn of amplified issues. Expansion to more airports and languages could exacerbate privacy risks without addressing core flaws like data mismanagement and breaches. A MediaNama report questioned its readiness for wider use, citing a history of scandals. False narratives, like claims of income tax notices for international travel via DigiYatra, have also muddied waters, though debunked.

Conclusion: Balancing Innovation and Safeguards

DigiYatra embodies India's digital ambitions but exemplifies the pitfalls of rushing biometric technology without ironclad protections. While it offers convenience for some, the issues, privacy invasions, security lapses, glitches, and coercion, demand urgent reforms. Stakeholders, including the DigiYatra Foundation, must prioritize transparency, robust data policies, and genuine consent to rebuild trust. Until then, passengers might think twice before handing over their faces to the system. As one expert put it, is it service or surveillance? The answer could shape the future of technology in public spaces.

ART OF LIVING TO ART OF EARNING:The Commercialization under the lieu of Seva and Sadhna

The Art of Living (AOL), founded in 1981 by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, has long been celebrated as a global movement promoting stress relief, inner peace, and holistic well-being through yoga, meditation, and the signature Sudarshan Kriya breathing technique. Operating in over 180 countries, the organization has touched millions of lives with its programs, which range from introductory Happiness Programs to advanced meditation courses like Sahaj Samadhi Dhyana Yoga. However, in recent years, questions have arisen about the increasing commercialization of AOL's activities, particularly in its teacher training programs. A notable point of contention is the alleged requirement for aspiring Sahaj Samadhi Meditation teachers to collect or donate substantial sums—reportedly as high as ₹2 lakh (approximately $2,400 USD)—to become eligible for certification. This practice raises critical questions about the intersection of spirituality, accessibility, and financial motives within the organization.

The Commercialization of Spirituality: The Art of Living's Donation Dynamics and the Sahaj Teacher Program

The Sahaj Samadhi Meditation Teacher Training: A Path to Enlightenment or a Financial Barrier?

At the heart of the controversy is the Sahaj Samadhi Meditation Teacher Training program, which trains individuals to teach AOL's mantra-based meditation technique. Sahaj Samadhi is marketed as an effortless yet profound practice that brings practitioners into a state of deep inner peace, or Samadhi. The teacher training is positioned as an opportunity for dedicated meditators to share this transformative practice with others while deepening their own spiritual practice. However, eligibility for this program comes with stringent requirements, including having completed the Art of Living Teacher Training and actively teaching the Happiness Program for at least four to five years.

 For instance, course fees for advanced programs like the Art of Living Part 2 or Sañyam include tax-deductible donations, with some programs in the U.S. noting $1,500 of the fee as a donation. In India, programs like the Advanced Meditation Program list "stay and food donations" ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹9,000, depending on accommodation type. These fees, while transparent, have led some to question whether AOL's spiritual offerings are becoming increasingly commercialized.

  

More recently, reports have surfaced alleging that aspiring Sahaj teachers are required to collect  a donation of ₹2 lakh to qualify for the training. This figure, while not officially detailed on AOL's websites, has been cited in discussions on platforms like Quora and among former participants. Critics argue that this donation requirement creates a significant financial barrier, potentially excluding sincere practitioners who lack the means to meet this obligation. The practice has fueled accusations that AOL is monetizing spirituality, turning a sacred pursuit into a pay-to-play model.

 The Donation Model: Philanthropy or Profit?

AOL defends its donation-based model, emphasizing that it operates as a non-profit organization with a commitment to social good. Donations, including those for teacher training, are framed as contributions to the organization's humanitarian projects.

However, the lack of transparency regarding the ₹2 lakh donation for Sahaj teacher training raises concerns. Unlike course fees, which are clearly listed for programs like the Happiness Program or Advanced Meditation Program, the donation requirement for teacher training is not explicitly documented on AOL's official websites. This opacity has led to speculation about whether the funds are genuinely used for social projects or if they serve as a revenue stream to sustain the organization's sprawling operations. A 2006-2007 tax return from AOL's U.S. chapter reported total revenues of $5.5 million, with $3.5 million from course fees, indicating that program fees constitute a significant portion of the organization's income.

Critics also point to the hierarchical structure of AOL's teacher training programs, which require years of commitment and multiple prerequisites before one can advance to roles like Sahaj teacher. The financial demands, coupled with the time investment, suggest that becoming a teacher is less about spiritual calling and more about financial and organizational loyalty. This perception is compounded by anecdotes from former volunteers who claim that the pressure to collect donations can feel coercive, particularly for those eager to deepen their involvement with AOL.

 The Broader Context: Commercialization in Spirituality

The Art of Living is not alone in facing scrutiny over financial practices. The commercialization of spirituality is a broader phenomenon, seen in organizations like Isha foundation  and certain yoga franchises, where high fees for advanced courses or teacher certifications are common. In AOL's case, the organization's global scale and diverse portfolio—from meditation retreats to social projects—require substantial funding. However, the reliance on donations, particularly large sums like ₹2 lakh for teacher training, risks alienating participants who view spirituality as a universal right rather than a privilege for those who can afford it.

Supporters of AOL argue that the donation model ensures the sustainability of its programs and enables the organization to offer free services, such as education and disaster relief, to underserved communities. But Art of Living foundation has hardly contributed or no offical announcement by the organisation related to some major philantrophic work. 

To address these concerns, AOL could enhance transparency by clearly outlining the donation requirements for teacher training programs and detailing how these funds are allocated. Offering tiered or subsidized options for dedicated practitioners who lack financial resources could also ensure that the path to becoming a Sahaj teacher remains open to all, regardless of economic status. Such measures would align with Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's vision of a stress-free, violence-free world, ensuring that spirituality remains a beacon of hope rather than a commodity.

In conclusion, while the Art of Living continues to inspire millions with its transformative practices, the commercialization of its teacher training programs, particularly the Sahaj Samadhi Meditation Teacher Training, raises valid questions about accessibility and intent. The organization's ability to balance its spiritual ethos with its financial model will determine whether it can maintain its credibility as a force for global good in an increasingly skeptical world.

The Chilling Tale Behind the 1980 Horror Film Gehrayee: Tantrics’ Warnings and Haunting Aftermath

In 1980, a Hindi horror film titled Gehrayee sent shivers down the spines of audiences, not just for its eerie storyline but for the unsettling real-life events that followed its production. Directed by Aruna Raje, the film starred Padmini Kolhapure and Amrish Puri and delved into the dark world of black magic. What makes Gehrayee stand out, even 45 years later, is the chilling warning issued by tantrics to the director, cautioning her against making the film, and the disturbing incidents that plagued those involved afterward.

 The Genesis of Gehrayee: A Personal Connection to the Occult

Aruna Raje, a filmmaker who has won six National Awards, revealed in an interview with Bollywood Crypt that the inspiration for Gehrayee stemmed from her personal experiences. Growing up in Bengaluru, Raje recalled how her mother frequently found peculiar objects in their garden—small lemons marked with turmeric or vermillion, often associated with black magic rituals. These findings were not uncommon, as her father, a freedom fighter turned politician, was a target of such practices due to his political involvement. Intrigued by these occurrences, Raje decided to explore the theme of black magic in her film.

The script for Gehrayee was a collaborative effort, with renowned playwright Vijay Tendulkar among the three writers involved. Their research was extensive, involving interviews with individuals who shared bizarre and chilling stories about the occult. One such story inspired Padmini Kolhapure's character in the film. Raje recounted meeting a man possessed by the spirit of a Muslim girl from Lucknow. Astonishingly, when possessed, he would recite Urdu poetry and shayari, despite being Christian and having no prior knowledge of the language. These real-life accounts shaped the film's narrative, adding an authentic layer of horror.

 Tantrics' Dire Warning: "Don't Make This Film"

During the research phase, Raje consulted tantrics and practitioners of black magic to ensure the film's authenticity. However, their warnings were unanimous and ominous: delving into the world of black magic was dangerous, and making a film about it could invite catastrophic consequences. "They told us not to make the film, warning that all sorts of things would happen," Raje recalled. Dismissing the warnings as mere superstition, she pressed forward, believing they were simply crafting a fictional story for the screen.

 The Haunting Aftermath

The decision to proceed with Gehrayee came at a heavy cost. After the film's release, audiences reported unsettling experiences. Some complained of spoiled food, while others described eerie incidents that left them shaken. They began contacting Raje and her team, desperately seeking the contact details of tantrics to address the disturbances they attributed to watching the film.

For Raje herself, the aftermath was even more devastating. A few years after the film's release, her personal life unraveled. She went through a painful divorce, and tragedy struck when her nine-year-old daughter succumbed to cancer. These events left Raje questioning whether the tantrics' warnings held truth. While she initially brushed off their cautions, the string of misfortunes that followed left an indelible mark on her life.

 Gehrayee's Legacy

Gehrayee remains a cult classic in Hindi cinema, remembered not only for its gripping portrayal of black magic but also for the eerie real-life events tied to its creation. The film's exploration of the supernatural, rooted in real stories and experiences, struck a chord with audiences, but its legacy is tinged with the ominous warnings and tragedies that followed. Aruna Raje's determination to tell this story, despite the tantrics' advice, underscores the risks of venturing into the unknown—both onscreen and off.

As the film continues to intrigue and unsettle viewers, it serves as a haunting reminder of the thin veil between fiction and reality, especially when dabbling in the occult. For those involved in Gehrayee, the warnings of the tantrics were not mere superstition but a chilling prophecy that left a lasting impact.

TeamLease Digital supports HEINEKEN in setting up its First Global Capability Center in Hyderabad

India, 30th July, 2025: TeamLease Digital, is supporting HEINEKEN in establishing its first Global Capability Center (GCC) in the Asia-Pacific region, located in Hyderabad. The new center is expected to further strengthen HEINEKEN's global capabilities. 

 

TeamLease Digital is supporting the initiative by providing staffing and talent services, enabling HEINEKEN to pool selected support roles to deliver faster and more consistent services to its global operations. 

 

TeamLease Digital is executing on-the-ground workforce implementation through its local talent networks, domain knowledge, and operational capabilities. 

 

This development reflects the growing trend of global enterprises choosing India not only for scale, but also for innovation and strategic capabilities. HEINEKEN joins a growing list of multinational corporations leveraging India's digital ecosystem to drive global growth and operational excellence.  

 

Ákos Magyari – Director HEINEKEN Business Services, stated the company's strong commitment to use India as a strategic delivery and transformation hub. "HEINEKEN Business Services India is an addition to HEINEKEN's existing global network of connected hubs that will provide essential services and capabilities to Operating Companies within HEINEKEN. The business services network plays an important part in HEINEKEN's EVERGREEN strategy." 

 

The collaboration between HEINEKEN and TeamLease Digital demonstrates how ecosystem partnerships can enable complex global delivery models and highlights India's position as a key destination for global innovation and enterprise transformation. 

 

Neeti Sharma – CEO, TeamLease Digital shares, "We are delighted to partner with HEINEKEN on this landmark initiative. As more global enterprises choose India to accelerate their transformation journeys, TeamLease Digital remains committed to delivering compliant, scalable workforce solutions that enable our clients to build high-performing capability centers. Our collaboration with HEINEKEN reflects not only our shared vision for operational excellence but also the power of India's talent ecosystem to fuel innovation and growth."