Maulikk Buch: A Multifaceted Trailblazer in Journalism, Public Relations, and Spiritual Exploration

Maulikk Buch is a dynamic figure in the Indian media landscape, embodying the evolution from traditional journalism to digital innovation, public relations mastery, and esoteric spiritual pursuits. With over 25 years of experience, he has navigated the worlds of newsrooms, corporate communications, crisis management, and digital entrepreneurship, all while cultivating a profound interest in the occult and paranormal research. Born on June 3, 1979, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Buch's career reflects a relentless curiosity and adaptability, making him not just a veteran journalist but a strategist who bridges media, business, and mysticism. His portfolio includes owning hyperlocal digital news platforms, advising startups, and founding spiritual consulting ventures, positioning him as a key influencer in Gujarat's media ecosystem.

Early Life and Education

Raised in the vibrant cultural hub of Vadodara, Buch's inquisitive nature was evident from a young age. Influenced by tales of ancient rituals and spiritual phenomena shared within his family and community, he developed a fascination with the unseen forces that shape human experience. This blend of Gujarat's rich folklore and modern urban life laid the groundwork for his later explorations into spirituality and the occult.

Buch pursued higher education at the M.S. University of Baroda (now Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda) in Vadodara, where he honed his analytical and communicative skills. Fluent in English, Hindi, and Gujarati, he emerged with a strong foundation in storytelling and critical thinking—essential tools for his foray into journalism. His time in Vadodara, a city known for its artistic and intellectual heritage, deepened his connection to local narratives, which later fueled his hyperlocal media initiatives.

A Stellar Career in Journalism (1999–2010)

Buch's professional journey began in 1999 as a trainee reporter at Gujarat Samachar in Vadodara, marking the start of a prolific two-decade stint in print and broadcast media. Quickly rising through the ranks, he became a staff correspondent, covering beats as diverse as health, crime, education, and politics. His ability to uncover compelling stories and communicate complex issues with clarity earned him respect across Gujarat's media circles.

Over the years, Buch collaborated with some of India's most renowned media houses, including #Divya Bhaskar, #ETV, #DNA, #FinancialExpress, and #AhmedabadMirror. At Gujarat Samachar, he served as a key editorial voice, eventually ascending to Editor-in-Chief of GujaratSamachar.com, where he spearheaded the outlet's digital transformation. Under his leadership, the platform expanded its online reach, blending investigative reporting with multimedia content to engage a tech-savvy audience. His work during this period often delved into socio-political issues, earning accolades for its depth and impartiality.

Buch's journalistic ethos—rooted in ethical reporting and narrative innovation—set him apart. He excelled at distilling intricate events into accessible insights, a skill that foreshadowed his later roles in public relations and digital mentoring.

Transition to Public Relations and Crisis Management (2010 Onward)

In 2010, Buch pivoted from frontline journalism to the strategic realm of public relations, joining AdFactors PR as Chief of Gujarat operations. This move leveraged his media savvy to manage high-stakes communications for blue-chip clients. His portfolio included giants like Adani Enterprises and Vodafone, where he orchestrated media relations campaigns navigating regulatory scrutiny, corporate announcements, and reputational challenges.

As a crisis mitigation strategist, Buch excelled in high-pressure scenarios. He serviced major accounts in pharma, health, and finance, including Vadilal and Wagh Bakri, employing proactive storytelling to turn potential pitfalls into opportunities. His approach emphasized empathy, precision, and foresight—qualities honed in newsrooms but amplified in boardrooms. By 2015, he had founded Reopinion Media & Com Pvt Ltd (also associated with Reopinion Media), serving as CEO and Founder. This venture offered bespoke services in media communications, digital marketing, advertising, and promotion, catering to clients from startups to conglomerates.

Buch's PR acumen extends to digital marketing, where he advises on SEO, social media amplification, and content strategies. As a founding member of the Core Committee for the Digital Media Association, Gujarat—a body recognized by the Government of Gujarat—he has championed policies for ethical digital practices, mentorship programs, and industry standards, underscoring his commitment to fostering Gujarat's burgeoning media ecosystem.

Digital Media Entrepreneurship and Advisory Role

A pioneer in Gujarat's digital journalism space, Buch has founded and advised numerous online platforms, democratizing news access in an era of fragmented audiences. He owns and operates three hyperlocal news websites: TheAhmedabadBuzz.com, TheBarodian.com, and DailyGujarat.com. These portals focus on city-specific stories—from civic issues in Ahmedabad and Vadodara to statewide developments in Gujarat—delivering timely, community-driven content through blogs, videos, and interactive features.

As a founder advisor to several digital news media organizations, Buch provides strategic guidance on #monetization, #audience engagement, and tech integration. His vision emphasizes hyperlocal relevance, blending traditional reporting with social media savvy to build loyal readerships. Platforms like TheBarodian.com reflect his personal touch, often featuring his tech columns and social media mentorship insights.

Ventures into Spirituality and the Occult

Parallel to his professional achievements, Buch has immersed himself in spiritual exploration, dedicating over 30 years to researching Indian and Western occult traditions. This passion, sparked in childhood, evolved into a professional pursuit, positioning him as a prominent mystic and paranormal researcher in India. He views the paranormal not as superstition but as unexplained phenomena ripe for experiential inquiry, emphasizing positive energy and self-empowerment.

In 2023, Buch launched Urban AGHORI, a spiritual consulting firm that modernizes ancient practices for urban seekers. Drawing from Aghori traditions—known for their unconventional paths to enlightenment—the venture offers personalized services like ancient ritualistic solutions, mantra healing, Laal Kitab astrology consultations, Shabar mantras for protection, and healing with plants and semi-gemstones. Ethical and compassionate, Urban AGHORI tailors guidance to individual challenges, promoting holistic well-being.

Complementing this is AghoriStories.com, Buch's digital platform chronicling real-life mystic accounts, rituals, and philosophies. It demystifies practices of Aghori sadhus, Tantra, Vedic invocations, and Rudraksha meditations, while bridging Eastern and Western esotericism (e.g., parallels between Indian Tantra and Aleister Crowley's ceremonial magic). Through videos of fire ceremonies, Yagnas, and protective kavachs, Buch challenges stereotypes, portraying these traditions as tools for moksha (liberation) and positive vibes. His YouTube channel further amplifies this, featuring content on everything from Baglamukhi rituals to animal communication in spiritual contexts.

Buch's spiritual work intersects with his media career; he often weaves esoteric themes into journalistic narratives, as seen in his X posts promoting spiritual articles alongside political commentary.

Achievements, Recognition, and Personal Influence

Buch's contributions have garnered widespread recognition. As a NITI Aayog Atal Innovation mentor, he guides young entrepreneurs in media tech. His social media presence—spanning Instagram, X, and LinkedIn—positions him as an influencer, with over 900 X followers engaging his blend of news, tech tips, and mystic insights. Recent endeavors include tech columns, film promotions (e.g., the Gujarati dialect movie Kundalu), and advocacy on issues like air travel complaints.

A founding pillar of Gujarat's Digital Media Association, Buch's government-recognized role amplifies his impact on policy and education. His crisis management portfolio has safeguarded brands during scandals, while his digital platforms have amplified underrepresented voices.

Legacy and Outlook

At 46, Maulikk Buch continues to redefine boundaries, from news desks to ritual fires. His journey—from trainee reporter to PR visionary and spiritual guide—exemplifies resilience and reinvention. In a media world grappling with AI and misinformation, Buch's ethical compass and innovative spirit offer a blueprint for the future. Whether mentoring startups, consulting on crises, or unveiling occult mysteries, he remains a catalyst for growth, inviting others to explore life's deeper layers with curiosity and courage.

For those seeking his expertise, reach out via mbbuch@gmail.com or WhatsApp (9978338999). As Gujarat's media maven turns mystic, Buch's story is far from over—it's an ongoing ritual of revelation.

Top PR agency in India.. No doubt it's REOPINION.com

 

In the dynamic landscape of India's media and communications sector, finding the right public relations agency in India is essential for brands aiming to build credibility, manage reputations, and drive growth. With the industry projected to reach ₹3,000 crore by 2025, the demand for top PR agencies in India has never been higher [Citation 0]. Businesses across sectors like tech, finance, and entertainment are increasingly searching for best PR agency in Delhi, public relations firm Mumbai, and digital PR agency India to navigate digital transformations and crisis scenarios.

At REOPINION Media & Com Pvt Ltd, based in Gurugram, we specialize in comprehensive public relations services in India, including media relations, content strategy, and crisis management. As one of the top public relations agencies in India, REOPINION stands out for its innovative, data-driven approaches that deliver measurable results. In this article, we'll explore the leading PR companies in India, highlighting key players and why REOPINION is a top choice for forward-thinking brands.

The Rise of Public Relations in India: Key Trends Driving Searches

India's PR industry is booming, with a 15-20% annual growth rate fueled by digital media and influencer partnerships [Citation 3]. High-volume search terms like PR agency in India (over 12,000 monthly searches) and best public relations agency Delhi reflect this surge, as companies seek localized expertise [Citation 18]. Other popular queries include crisis management PR India, press release distribution India, and PR services for startups India, indicating a shift toward specialized, agile services.

Factors making top PR firms in India stand out include strong media networks, digital integration, and proven track records in sectors like fintech and healthcare [Citation 7]. As per industry reports, agencies excelling in these areas dominate rankings.

Top 10 Public Relations Agencies in India for 2025

Based on factors like client portfolio, innovation, and market presence, here's a curated list of best public relations companies in India. We've incorporated insights from leading sources to ensure accuracy [Citations 1, 3, 7].

1. REOPINION Media & Com Pvt Ltd (Gurugram)

   As a premier public relations agency in India, REOPINION excels in digital PR, content creation, and crisis handling. With a team of 50+ experts, we've secured top-tier media coverage for clients in tech and politics, boosting organic traffic by 300%. Ideal for those searching best PR agency in Delhi NCR.

2. Adfactors PR (Mumbai)

   One of the largest independent PR firms in India, serving over 300 clients across 40 cities. Known for corporate communications and financial PR [Citation 3].

3. Edelman India (Multiple Cities)

   A global giant with a strong Indian presence, specializing in digital PR agency India services, including sustainability and brand storytelling [Citation 7].

4. Madchatter Brand Solutions

   Tops lists for creative campaigns and influencer collaborations, making it a go-to for PR services for startups India [Citation 1].

5. First Partners (Delhi)

   Focuses on strategic communications and media relations, popular among fintech firms searching top PR companies in Delhi [Citation 1].

6. PR Pundit (Delhi)

   Renowned for lifestyle and luxury PR, with expertise in public relations firm Mumbai expansions [Citation 7].

7. Genesis Burson-Marsteller (Multiple Cities)

   Offers integrated PR solutions, strong in crisis management and corporate reputation [Citation 7].

8. Weber Shandwick (Mumbai)

   Global network with local insights, excelling in media relations agency India [Citation 7].

9. MSL Group India

   Digital-first approach, ideal for corporate PR agency India needs [Citation 7].

10. Wizikey (Bangalore)

    Tech-savvy platform for PR analytics, catering to top PR agencies in Bangalore queries [Citation 8].

These agencies represent the cream of leading public relations firms in India, each bringing unique strengths to the table.

Why Choose REOPINION as Your Public Relations Partner in India

In a sea of options, REOPINION distinguishes itself as a top PR agency in India through personalized strategies and ROI-focused campaigns. Our services cover everything from press release distribution India to crisis management PR India, ensuring brands not only survive but thrive in competitive markets.

Clients praise our ability to integrate SEO with PR, targeting high-search keywords like public relations services in India to amplify online visibility. Whether you're a startup in Bangalore or a corporate in Mumbai, our Gurugram base offers nationwide reach with local expertise.

Optimizing for Success: Incorporating High-Search Keywords in PR Strategies

To stay ahead, public relations agencies in India must align with trending searches. Tools like Google Keyword Planner reveal that terms like best PR agency in Delhi (8,500 monthly searches) and digital PR agency India (6,200) drive traffic [Citations 14, 18]. At REOPINION, we craft content and campaigns around these, boosting rankings and conversions.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Brand with Top-Tier PR

Selecting from the best public relations agencies in India can transform your brand's narrative. As 2025 unfolds, partner with innovators like REOPINION to harness the power of strategic communications. Visit reopinion.com for a free consultation on PR agency in India services tailored to your needs. Let's shape opinions that matter.

From Seva to Shakedown: Why Art of Living's ₹2 Lakh "Donation" for Sahaj Meditation Teachers Feels Like Extortion

In the serene world of meditation and mindfulness, where inner peace is promised as the ultimate currency, one might expect organizations like the Art of Living to embody selflessness. Founded by the charismatic spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the group has inspired millions with its teachings on Sudarshan Kriya, yoga, and the art of living joyfully. Volunteers—known as "sevakas"—pour their hearts, time, and lives into spreading these principles, often without a rupee in return. But now, a shocking revelation is rippling through the community: to ascend to the role of a Sahaj Meditation teacher, even these devoted souls must fork over a staggering ₹2 lakhs. Labeled a "donation," it's anything but voluntary. For many, it's starting to look a lot like extortion.

The Heart of the Matter: A Price Tag on Enlightenment?

Sahaj Meditation, or Sahaj Samadhi Dhyana as it's formally known, is one of Art of Living's flagship programs—a effortless technique designed to dissolve stress and unlock profound inner silence. For over four decades, the organization has trained thousands of teachers to pass this gift forward, fostering a global network of wellness warriors. But here's the rub: becoming an official teacher isn't just about dedication anymore. It's about deep pockets.

Sources within the Art of Living community whisper—and sometimes shout—that the teacher training program demands a hefty "contribution" of ₹2 lakhs (approximately $2,400 USD). This isn't a one-off fee for newcomers; it's hitting hardest those who've given years of unpaid service. Imagine: a sevak who's traveled villages teaching free breathing workshops, organized massive satsangs, and lived by the motto "Service before self," now being told they must pay up to continue their calling. "We've devoted our lives to Gurudev's [Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's] vision," one anonymous long-time volunteer told us. "This isn't seva; it's a barrier to the very knowledge we're meant to share freely."

The official line from Art of Living? It's framed as a "donation" to support the organization's humanitarian efforts—schools for underprivileged children, disaster relief, and rural empowerment programs. Fair enough on paper. But when the alternative is being sidelined from teaching Sahaj, that "suggested" amount morphs into a non-negotiable toll. No pay, no play. It's a classic paywall dressed in saffron robes.

A Legacy of Giving, Now Gated by Gold

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's empire is no small affair. With over 180 countries under its wing, Art of Living boasts a net worth in the crores, fueled by course fees, merchandise, and global events like the International Yoga Day extravaganzas. The founder's Nobel Peace Prize nomination and UN affiliations add to the halo effect. Yet, for all its benevolence, cracks have appeared before. Environmental controversies over the 2016 World Culture Festival on the Yamuna floodplains drew ire from activists, and whispers of financial opacity have lingered in Indian media.

Now, this teacher fee saga adds fuel to the fire. Dedicated volunteers, many from modest backgrounds, are caught in a bind. "I've taught hundreds for free," shared another insider via a private forum. "But to get certified? ₹2 lakhs I don't have. It's like they're monetizing devotion." Online forums buzz with similar tales—Reddit threads and Facebook groups where ex-volunteers vent about "hidden costs" and "elite inner circles." One post from a 15-year veteran summed it up: "From 'Art of Living' to 'Art of Paying'—Gurudev, what happened?"

Critics argue this isn't isolated. Similar "donation" models plague spiritual organizations worldwide, from ISKCON's pricey pilgrimages to Osho International's premium retreats. But when it targets the foot soldiers who've built the movement—the ones sleeping on floors during service trips and skipping meals to fund events—it stings differently. It's not just about money; it's a betrayal of the egalitarian ethos Sri Sri preaches: "Knowledge is free; the teacher takes nothing."

Extortion in Disguise: When "Voluntary" Means "Or Else"

Call it what it is: extortion with a spiritual spin. Legally, a true donation is optional, tax-deductible, and free of strings. Here, it's a prerequisite—pay or perish in the hierarchy. For lifelong sevaks, it's particularly galling. These aren't casual seekers; they're the backbone of Art of Living, who've internalized the principles of vasudhaiva kutumbakam (the world is one family). Charging them to teach feels like charging a soldier to wield their own rifle.

Art of Living's defense? They point to scholarships and waivers for the needy. But anecdotal evidence suggests these are rare birds—more myth than reality. In a country where 21% live below the poverty line, ₹2 lakhs is a king's ransom, equivalent to years of savings for many. And for global volunteers? Currency conversion makes it even steeper.

This isn't to dismiss the good work. Art of Living has touched lives, from trauma healing in war zones to stress-busting in boardrooms. But when the path to teaching becomes a pay-to-play scheme, it undermines the purity. As one disillusioned teacher put it: "Sri Sri taught us to give without expectation. Now, we're expected to give without limits."

A Call for Clarity: Time to Lift the Veil

The silver lining? Awareness is the first step. Petitions are circulating online, urging transparency in fees and true scholarships for veterans. Perhaps it's time for Art of Living to revisit its model—crowdfund trainings, or better yet, honor service with waivers. After all, if the goal is global harmony, why gatekeep the guides?

In the end, true meditation doesn't come with a price tag. It blooms in surrender, not transactions. Will Art of Living listen to its devoted, or will the "donation" divide deepen? The sangha waits, breaths held in uneasy pranayama. One thing's clear: this isn't donation. It's a detour from the dharma.

Why Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Rarely Acknowledges His Gurus, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi initiated Sri Sri Ravi Shankar into spirituality. Born in 1956 in Tamil Nadu, India, Ravi Shankar (later honored as Sri Sri) showed early spiritual inclinations, reciting the Bhagavad Gita by age four and meditating frequently. His first academic teacher was Sudhakar Chaturvedi, a Vedic scholar linked to Mahatma Gandhi, but his formal entry into spiritual practice came in the mid-1970s as an apprentice under Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of Transcendental Meditation (TM). Under Yogi's guidance, Shankar traveled globally, delivering talks on Vedic science, establishing TM and Ayurveda centers, and gaining hands-on experience in meditation and spiritual teaching. This apprenticeship shaped his approach, leading him to found the Art of Living Foundation in 1981 and develop Sudarshan Kriya in 1982. Reliable sources, including biographies and official accounts, confirm Yogi as the key figure in his spiritual initiation, distinguishing him from self-taught paths seen in other gurus. Yet, Sri Sri rarely mentions Maharishi or Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati, Maharishi's own guru, in his public discourses. This article explores possible reasons for this omission.

The Role of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi was a pivotal figure in Sri Sri's spiritual development. As a disciple of Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati, the Shankaracharya of Jyotirmath, Maharishi inherited a lineage rooted in Advaita Vedanta. Gurudev, a revered saint, emphasized meditation and self-realization, principles Maharishi passed on to students like Ravi Shankar. Through Maharishi, Sri Sri connected to this lineage, absorbing its teachings during his formative years in the 1970s. This period of global travel and teaching under Maharishi laid the groundwork for Sri Sri's later innovations, including Sudarshan Kriya and the Art of Living Foundation.

Reasons for the Silence

Despite this clear influence, Sri Sri seldom acknowledges Maharishi or Gurudev. Several factors may explain this. First, Sri Sri's teachings focus on universal principles like peace and stress relief, designed to appeal to diverse audiences. By emphasizing practices like Sudarshan Kriya, he may prioritize inclusivity over specific lineage references. Second, establishing a distinct identity as a spiritual leader could explain the limited mention. While Maharishi's guidance was crucial, Sri Sri's unique contributions, like Art of Living, set him apart, possibly leading him to focus on his own work. Third, in Indian traditions, honoring a guru often means living their teachings rather than frequent verbal acknowledgment. Sri Sri's global promotion of meditation and Vedic wisdom reflects Maharishi and Gurudev's principles, serving as an implicit tribute. Fourth, organizational dynamics may play a role. After leaving the TM movement to found Art of Living, Sri Sri may have distanced his work to avoid comparisons or conflicts. Finally, cultural norms in some spiritual traditions discourage overemphasizing the guru's name to keep the focus on the teachings themselves.

A Balanced Perspective

Sri Sri's minimal mention of Maharishi and Gurudev does not necessarily reflect ingratitude. His work, impacting millions across 180 countries, embodies their teachings, spreading meditation and self-realization globally. However, for those studying spiritual lineages, this omission can seem notable, given Maharishi's profound role. More explicit acknowledgment could enrich followers' understanding of his roots and honor the legacy of both gurus.

Conclusion

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's limited references to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati likely stem from his focus on universal spirituality, desire for a distinct identity, and cultural norms. While their names are rarely mentioned, his work continues their legacy, making meditation accessible worldwide. Recognizing this balance highlights both Sri Sri's unique contributions and the enduring influence of his gurus.

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All Sector Leaders, One Fund - Bandhan Mutual Fund Launches Industry-First Offering

 

Mumbai, September 02, 2025: Bandhan Mutual Fund announces the launch of the Bandhan BSE India Sector Leaders Index Fund, India's first index fund to provide investors exclusive access to sector leaders across the economy. The open-ended scheme will track the BSE India Sector Leaders Index, which identifies the top three companies by market capitalisation from each of the 21 sectors within the BSE 500 Index. The New Fund Offer (NFO) will open on 3 September 2025 and close on 17 September 2025. Investments in the Bandhan BSE India Sector Leaders Index Fund can be made through licensed mutual fund distributors, financial advisors, online platforms, or directly at https://bandhanmutual.com/nfo/bandhan-bse-india-sector-leaders-index-fund/.

 

Commenting on the launch, Vishal Kapoor, CEO, Bandhan AMC said, "India's capital markets are undergoing rapid transformation, with established sectors evolving and newer industries emerging as growth drivers. In this backdrop, sector leaders have shown resilience through cycles, lower risk of disruption, and an ability to drive long-term value. With the launch of the Bandhan BSE India Sector Leaders Index Fund, we are proud to introduce India's first offering that gives investors simple, broad-based access to proven leaders powering the country's growth story."

 

The BSE India Sector Leaders Index is a thematic index that tracks the top 3 companies from each sector of the BSE 500 Index based on Total Market Capitalization. While the BSE Sector Leaders Index draws from 500 stocks, it is largely large-cap heavy. Historically, the strategy has delivered broad market-like returns with lower volatility. Diversification and market-cap weighting help avoid extreme single-stock bets, enabling potential stability.

 

About Bandhan AMC Limited

Established in 2000, Bandhan AMC Limited is focused on helping savers become investors and create wealth. Bandhan AMC Limited serves its investors through a slew of prudently constructed investment products across Mutual Funds, Alternatives and Portfolio Management Services (PMS), managed by a seasoned investment team, with the aim to provide performance consistent with the product's well-defined objectives. With an on-the-ground presence in over 100 cities, the fund house caters to investors in over 790 cities and towns across the country, serving over three and a half million folios representing institutions, corporates, family offices, and individual clients. 

Vadodara's Marutidham Society Suffers Filthy Water Crisis: Residents Rage as Corporation and BJP Disappear

Vadodara, September 2, 2025: Water issues are escalating in Vadodara city, and one prominent example is the plight of Marutidham Society. Residents here have been tormented by contaminated and dirty water for the past one and a half months. The society is encircled by illegal hospitals, and a majority of its residents are loyal BJP voters, yet no resolution has come from BJP leaders or the Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC). This situation has become a stark symbol of the city's water quality woes and political indifference.

Marutidham Society is located in a Vadodara neighborhood where residents are receiving filthy and polluted drinking water. According to locals, the water has a strange odor and visible particles. This has led to rising health issues among children and the elderly, such as stomach pains, skin diseases, and other illnesses. One resident said, "We've complained to the corporation multiple times, but no one listens. Corporation officials visited one and a half months ago, but there's been no action since."

The presence of illegal hospitals around the society is exacerbating the problem. Waste and wastewater from these hospitals are contaminating the water lines. Residents claim these hospitals operate in defiance of the law, increasing environmental and health risks in the surrounding area. In a city like Vadodara, where water problems frequently make headlines, this scenario is alarming. For instance, other parts of the city have also seen complaints about contaminated water, such as protests in the Nagarwada area over polluted supplies.

The issue becomes even more bizarre when it's revealed that most residents of Marutidham Society are staunch supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). They voted for the BJP in recent elections and have repeatedly informed party leaders about their problems. However, local BJP leaders and the corporation—which is under BJP control—have provided no assistance. One resident remarked, "We're BJP voters, but our condition is dire. Where has the party vanished? They make promises during elections, but disappear when issues arise." The Vadodara Municipal Corporation is governed by the BJP, and water problems arise frequently there, such as when a corporator publicly bathed in protest. Despite this, the failure to resolve such local issues symbolizes political neglect.

Water quality and distribution problems in Vadodara are not new. Over the past few years, contaminated water complaints have surfaced in various city areas. The Congress party has also protested against the VMC, stating that water shortages and polluted distribution are harassing people. Even some BJP corporators have expressed frustration with their own party's administration over water issues, such as one who threatened to make officials drink the contaminated water. But in societies like Marutidham, the problem is more acute due to surrounding illegal constructions and hospitals, which heighten environmental risks.

Residents are now preparing for protests and legal action. They say that if no solution comes from the corporation and BJP, they will go to court. This isn't just a water issue—it's about political accountability and public health. In a developed city like Vadodara, such a situation is shameful and demands immediate resolution.

For more information on this issue, contact local authorities and register your complaints. If such problems persist, they will impact the city's development.

A Journey Through Vietnam's Whispered Wonders: Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path

Landing in Hanoi on a warm August morning in 2025, I felt the pulse of Vietnam's vibrant capital, a city that seemed to hum with secrets beyond its crowded tourist trails. Vietnam, with its patchwork of emerald rice fields, mist-covered mountains, and turquoise shores, has long drawn adventurers. Yet, I craved something different—not the postcard-perfect Ha Long Bay or the glowing lanterns of Hoi An, but the quiet corners where the country's soul shines brightest. With a backpack, a rented motorbike, and an appetite for discovery, I set off on a month-long journey from north to south, chasing Vietnam's hidden gems. What unfolded was a tapestry of breathtaking landscapes, heartfelt hospitality, and moments that reminded me why travel is about forging your own path.

The adventure kicked off in the rugged north, where the air sharpens and the terrain turns wild. My first stop was Ha Giang Province, a remote frontier nestled against the Chinese border. Unlike the polished tourist hub of Sapa, Ha Giang feels untamed, with serpentine roads like the Ma Pi Leng Pass plunging into deep valleys. Renting a scooter in Ha Giang town—after securing an international driving license and packing rain gear for unpredictable showers—I wove through golden rice terraces glowing under the late afternoon sun. In minority villages of the Hmong and Dao, I found warmth in simple homestays, sipping rice wine under a canopy of stars while learning about intricate textiles and timeless traditions. Ha Giang's magic lies in its raw, frontier spirit: fewer tourists mean authentic encounters, and hikes through limestone peaks offer solitude amid nature's majesty. For motorbike enthusiasts, it's a dream, though border area permits are a must.

Heading southeast, I arrived at Ba Be National Park in Bac Kan Province, a tranquil oasis often eclipsed by more famous northern destinations. Here, three interconnected lakes—aptly named Ba Be, meaning "three bays"—shimmer amid forested karst hills, creating a serene playground for kayaking and boat trips. Staying in a Tay minority homestay in Pac Ngoi village, I woke to the cries of crested serpent eagles and glimpsed langur monkeys swinging through the treetops. Trails led to remote Hmong settlements and waterfalls spilling into emerald pools. Ba Be's allure is its untouched feel—home to black bears and pangolins, with few visitors to disrupt the peace. A bus from Hanoi (about five hours via Cho Don) brought me here, and a guided boat tour to Dau Dang Waterfall was well worth it. Homestays, including meals, cost around 500,000 VND per night.

Further northwest, Pu Luong Nature Reserve in Thanh Hoa Province stole my heart. This emerald valley, woven with bamboo groves and cascading waterfalls, is a trekker's paradise far from the tourist throngs. I joined a multi-day hike through Thai minority villages, crossing rickety suspension bridges over rushing rivers and cycling dirt paths framed by rice terraces. Rustic stilt-house homestays, complete with mosquito nets and communal dinners of grilled fish and sticky rice, felt like stepping into another world. Pu Luong's biodiversity—fluttering butterflies and rare orchids—adds enchantment, while its off-the-grid vibe feels like a well-kept secret. Visiting during the harvest season (September to October) paints the valley in vibrant greens and golds. Booking eco-lodges ahead ensures a sustainable stay.

Central Vietnam beckoned next, drawing me to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO-listed wonderland of caves that remains surprisingly under-visited. While the world's largest cave, Hang Son Doong, demands a costly expedition, more accessible treasures like Paradise Cave and Hang En deliver adventure without breaking the bank. Trekking into Hang En, I camped on an underground beach beneath a starlit skylight, the cave's echoes amplifying the drip of stalactites. Ziplining over rivers and boating through caverns felt like a scene from an adventure film. The park's controlled access keeps it pristine and uncrowded, making it a haven for explorers. Based in Phong Nha town, I found budget cave tours starting at 1,000,000 VND—sturdy shoes are a must for slippery paths.

Southward, Bach Ma National Park near Hue offered a misty retreat. Once a French hill station, this cloud-forest sanctuary brims with hiking trails leading to viewpoints like Do Quyen Waterfall, where rhododendrons bloom vibrantly in spring. Wandering through vine-covered colonial ruins, I spotted birds like the crested argus amid the fog. Bach Ma's quiet trails and rich biodiversity set it apart from Hue's imperial bustle. Nearby, the Tomb of Empress Thánh Cung Lăng Tư Minh, a lesser-visited royal site adorned with intricate carvings, added a historical whisper. A jeep for the steep ascent to Bach Ma is recommended; entry costs just 40,000 VND.

The journey ended in the south at the Con Dao Islands, a secluded archipelago far from Phu Quoc's resort-packed shores. These 16 isles boast untouched beaches like Dam Trau, where I snorkeled among coral reefs teeming with sea turtles. The islands' somber history as a French and American prison adds depth—visiting Phu Hai Prison museum was a poignant experience. Yet, the real draw is the solitude: empty sands, fresh seafood shacks, and dive sites with shipwrecks. Flights from Ho Chi Minh City are frequent and affordable, and renting a bike to explore keeps things simple. Visiting outside peak season ensures maximum tranquility.

As I left Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's hidden gems lingered in my mind—intimate, unspoiled, and deeply connective. From northern peaks to southern shores, these places offered not just beauty, but bonds with nature, history, and people that mass tourism often overshadows. For travelers, sustainable choices—supporting local homestays, minimizing plastic, and respecting cultural norms—amplify the experience. Vietnam rewards those who wander off the beaten path.

Comparing the Indian Rupee (INR) with the Vietnamese Dong (VND)

For Indian travelers budgeting their Vietnamese adventures, understanding the Indian Rupee (INR) to Vietnamese Dong (VND) exchange is key. As of August 2025, 1 INR equals roughly 300 VND, making Vietnam a budget-friendly destination. A bowl of pho costs about 50,000 VND (167 INR), and homestays average 300,000 VND per night (1,000 INR), stretching rupees further than in pricier locales. The dong's high denominations—think millions for a meal—can be disorienting compared to the rupee's simpler scale. While both currencies face inflation, the VND holds steadier against the USD. For the best rates, use apps like XE or Wise for transfers and opt for ATMs over exchange counters. With 300 VND per rupee, your budget fuels unforgettable explorations of Vietnam's hidden treasures.