Reincarnating Raipur lifestyle Magazine 4th Edition

CONTENTS 10. 22. Director’s Note Special Exuding the organiza onal Explore the pris ne wedding objec ves, vision & philosophy. des na ons in Chha sgarh. 14. 26. Event Calendar Wedding Des na on Categorical display of the slated Sunray Village Resort: A premium affairs to occur in the town. des na on near Chha sgarh for lavish weddings. 16. 28. Rewind‘18 Caterers Find out how even ul '2018' has been for our state and the na on. Shreeji Caterers: The pioneer in quality food catering in Raipur. 20. 30. What’s New Wedding Planner ChaiGarh: Quench your curiosity about Tandoori Chai. Introduc on to an elite level wedding planning firm. 36. 34. Raipurian Locale A conducive locale for living the luxurious celebra ons. Cover Story Reflec ng the formidable composure of our cover models to leap beyond constant impediments.



Indian Balcony 43. 52. Statue Of Unity: A tribute to the Iron Man Of India. HIStory Raipur Talks 5386. Dr. Sandeep Dave: An instrument of Know the expecta ons of the the divine for the human well-being. renowned Raipurians from the newly formed government. 46. 54. Social Heritage Robin Hood Army: Conduc ng food drives for the needy ones. Indira Kala Sangeet Vishwavidyalaya: A visit to the 48. vintage library oozing ancient wisdom & knowledge of music & Businessman arts. Mansoor Zafer: A story to paint 60. your heart with the colors of resolu on. Within The World 50. Stan Lee: Delve in the heart filled with sincere playfulness. Poli cian 62. The journey of our newly elected Chief Minister from the farm to the Restaurant assembly. Iraa: Alluring place, exquisite taste. 64. Recipe A dessert for the sweetness of celebratory vibes. 66. Fashion Find out how the skin friendly Khadi spruces up your fashion & style.

68. 80. 96. Beauty Community Ac vity The ni y-gri y of bridal The all you need to know about Bloggers' Meet: Celebra ng our makeup. the noble society- Arya Samaj. Third Edi on with the flowering bloggers of the town. 70. 82. 98. Jewellery Eco-Friendly Wedding Spo ed 72. ‘Know-how' of invoking Mother Reflec on of a slew of vibrant Fitness Nature's blessings while ge ng events in the town. hitched. Pilates: Much safer & efficient 102. way to a ain desired fitness 84. goals. Yellow Pages Educa on 74. Find out the major local Brahmavid: A pledge to nudge businesses listed categorically. Diet & Wellness the young ones for discovering their individuality. An inducement to take the first step towards healthy lifestyle. 86. 76. Tourism Nutri onist Dholkal: A holy place in the tribal belt for spiritual impetus. A beginner's guide to diet & nutri on. 88. 78. Startup Astrology Gi ing solu ons for the prevalent gi culture. Ward off your matrimonial aversions with the astrological 90. predic ons. Entertainment Sneak into this year's larger- than-life celebrity weddings.

DIRECTOR’S NOTE | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine Raipur Lifestyle Magazine unfolds Raipur in the best possible manner for the city to shine in the hearts of the people across the state and beyond. Our fundamental objective is to wipe out the conjectures about the city that project its negative image. As of now, this magazine is in its growing phase with the significant contributions of the Raipurians. Being a robust and vibrant platform, we bring the talents, skills and professional accolades of the locals under limelight. We also strive towards highlighting the day to day occurrences along with the major events taking place in the city. Promoting tourism in our motherland- Chhattisgarh, is too in the focus. We, with our ever eager & meticulous team, want to expand this platform in such a way that it can reach out to every household, social circles, corporate arena, cafes, restaurants and hotels in the town for the meaningful impact directed towards enhancing the lifestyle of the people. THIS MAGAZINE IS Of the people, For the people and By the people.!!! Monika Agrawal Chairperson Amit Agrawal Managing Director & C.E.O. 10 Vol 2 | Issue 1



MEGHA JAIN Operations Head POOJA KHUBWANI Business Head MAYUR SEJPAL Design Head SHWETA NAYAK Event Head DEEPENDRA DAS Content Editor MANPREET SINGH Digital Media Manager EESHAN SHARMA Audio/Video Director SOURABH ACHARYA Event Co-ordinator SHRUTY DUBEY Sales Executive LEENA YADU Media Executive ASMITA PATIDAR Media Executive

On The Cover Concept Big Fat Tandoori PRACHI AGRAWAL BRIM Celebrity Spells Prachi Agrawal, regarded as beauty with brains, is an equanimous and formidable lady who, For Living Your positively inducing the girls with the aversion of lack of exposure, has won prestigious titles to the #REWIND2K18 likes of Mrs India- 2017 and Mrs Asia International- 2017. Fairytale Wedding Makeup, Styling and Photography JAAS N NEEL STUDIO Surgeon With A HUMAN TOUCH Jaas N Neel Studio as the perfect merger of timeless creativity & expertise, excels in the top class photography & videography including the commercial and promotional ones with the prominence Through Your all over the country. EYES TO THE Abhilasha’s Jewellery & Wardrobe BELLY: Iraa PARAMPARA - THE LEGACY Abhilasha & Pravn Parampara- The Legacy is the boutique in town renowned as the one stop destination for an elaborate range of bridal collections. Its name echoes louder when it comes to the customized Sailing On Their Own Cruiser apparels. &ABHILASHA PRAVEEN AGRAWAL PURENA Praveen’s Jewellery & Wardrobe VIMAL VATIKA With variety and quality as its forte, Vimal Vatika has roped in much elongated bandwidth of clients from high profile corporate ones to the celebrities. It has the finest collections of not only Indian traditional outfits but also the western ones. Location Courtesy LAS VISTA, Amlihdih, Mahaveer Nagar, Raipur Las Vista in contrast with the city rush, harbors a pristine and serene atmosphere for the comfortable and peaceful living experience in the lavish apartments. To enhance the luxury lifestyle manifolds it has amenities from landscape garden and club house to swimming pool and play area in a robustly secured enclosure. This magazine takes no responsibility for unsolicited photographs or materials. ALL PHOTOGRAPHS, UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED, ARE USED FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY. Opinions mentioned in the magazine are of the individual(s) and the magazine isn’t responsible or should not be held accountable for any of them. Advertisements in the magazine and the depictions on them, are provided by the respective brands and are in no way the responsibility of the company. Subject matter in the magazine is copyrighted and any plagiarism or infringement will be penalised.

EVENTS CALENDAR | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine FEBRUARY 8 - Tara Lifestyle Exhibition 10 @ Hotel Vennington Court | 11:00 AM 9 Karigari By IPKinks @ Kasba in Town | 3:00 PM 9 - The Local Food Fest 11 @ Ground Opp Indra Gandhi Agricultural College | 5:00 PM 12 - Emerging Trends in Engineering 13 @ Amity University | 9:00 AM 15 - Zuri Exhibition 17 @ Zone by The Park | 10:00 AM The Haat 1- 16 Workshop on Arduibotics @ Zone By The Park | 11:00 AM 3 @ NIT Raipur | 10:00 AM Auto Show 2 - 3 17 Raipur Going Pink www.raipurgoingpink.in @ Wood Castle | 9:00 AM 6th Biopesticide International Conference 6 - 8 17 Anand Mela @ Gaurav Garden | 3:00 PM @ Amity University | 9:00 AM Bhoramdeo Festival 2019 14 23 - Wedding Asia @ BhoramdeoTemple, Kabirdham 24 @ Hotel Sayaji 15 - Raipur 17 10:00 AM Indian Designer’s Haat @ Hotel Babylon Inn | 11:00 AM Sutraa - The Indian Fashion Exhibition 23 - @ Zone By The Park | 11:00 AM 25 MARCH 14 Vol 2 | Issue 1

For any queries please call 0771 4008799 or visit www.raipurgoingpink.in

REWIND‘18 | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine THE STATE This entire year has been quite eventful for our state. Whether it's cleanliness drive, business policies, sports culture, educational reforms or homeland security, Chhattisgarh has attained much to talk about. As such to your knowledge, here we bring forth the important wrap-ups that you would surely want to go through. CHHATTISGARH STANDS CENTER'S NODE TO GOVERNOR MANDATES STATE CABINET THIRD IN 'SAMPOORNA RESIDENTIAL FENCING LOKPAL APPOINTMENT IN SWACHHTA ABHIYAAN’ ACADEMY UNDER DECIDES TO RENAME ‘KHELO INDIA’ THE STATE UNIVERSITIES As a major contribution NAYA RAIPUR AS towards the nationwide The Union Government has The Governor in-charge of cleanliness drive, given its node to establish Chhattisgarh, Anandiben ATAL NAGAR Chhattisgarh has attained Residential Fencing Patel has mandated the the third place in Academy at Bilaspur’s appointment of Lokpal in all In order to honor the 'Sampoorna Swachhta newly built Indoor Stadium the state universities after a colossus of Indian Abhiyaan'. The Union MoS under its initiative to Coordination Committee Politics and former (Independent Charge) for rekindle the sport culture in Meeting. Now, the specially Prime Minister Mr Housing & Urban India at the grassroot level- appointed Lokpal will be the Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Development, Hardeep ‘Khelo India’. The academy concerned official to look Chhattisgarh Cabinet Singh Puri put forth the in its initial phase will train with transparency into the has decided to rename report of Swachh 24 athletes of under-14 class matters reported that usually the state's new capital Sarvekshan 2018 at Scotch comprising 12 boys and 12 remain unattended owing to as Atal Nagar. The Summit that registered the girls for which international the busy schedule of the cabinet has also given state for 64 awards for the level coaches of Sports Vice-Chancellor & Registrar. nod to build an Atal sanitation in the urban Authority Of India will be The eligibility of the Lokpal, Memorial in the area areas including 12 appointed. This whole who will be a part-time sprawling over 5 acres Excellence Awards for ambitious project is entirely official, stretches as he in the state capital. high-quality services. funded by the Center which should not be a judge but This move came right aims at preparing athletes should be at par with the after the sad demise of for the Olympics to be held stature of a District Judge 93-year-old Mr in the years 2024 & 2028. having experience as a Vajpayee on 16th professor for at least 10 years. August at AIIMS, New Delhi post fighting prolonged medical complications. 16 Vol 2 | Issue 1

REWIND‘18 | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine BULLETIN WORDS: DEEPENDRA DAS PHOTOGRAPHS: INTERNET CHHATTISGARH BLACK PANTHER THE FIRST GARBAGE CONGRESS RECLAIMS CONFERRED WITH SQUAD FORMED TO FESTIVAL OF INDIA ITS HONOR IN STATE OF THE YEAR CONDUCTED IN CHHATTISGARH AWARD AT IBLA TAKE ON MAOIST CHHATTISGARH AFTER 15 YEARS INSURGENCY Chhattisgarh was Raipur Municipal With a clear majority, the conferred with the State On the line of Greyhounds Corporation conducted the grand old party of the country- Of The Year award under in Telangana and Andhra first ever garbage festival of Indian National Congress Business Leader Pradesh as anti insurgency India, 'Kachra Mahotsav reclaimed its honor in category at India squad, the Anti Naxal 2018' from 19th to 21st Chhattisgarh having won 68 Business Leader Awards Squad- Black Panther has January. The fundamental seats out of 90 in the Assembly (IBLA) conducted by been formed in aim of the festival was to Election. The people's CNBC TV-18 in New Chhattisgarh to curb the disseminate awareness about decision favoring anti Delhi. Higher Education maoist menace that has garbage management & incumbency came like a Minister of the state been plaguing the state for sanitation along with utilising shocker as expectations from Prem Prakash Pandey decades. As many as 200 the waste accumulated in a the polls were not of the received the award from soldiers have been selected creative manner that is victory for congress of this the Union Minister Of to go through the intense beneficial for keeping the calibre. It can be said that the Electronics & training at the Counter locality clean. The Congress' manifesto this time Information Technology Ter rorism and Jungle unprecedented fest had was much stronger than the Ravi Shankar Prasad. Warfare College, Kanker. conducive workshops for the ones it came up with in the During the program, Mr Most of these soldiers have participants to experience and previous polls and the people Pandey also informed a significant experience of learn progressive ways of of the state surely have put that the state holds 4th working in the naxal hit waste management. There their stamp of validation on position in the country in areas. The state police were also expert talks and that. Ease Of Doing Business headquarters will monitor performances to orient the reflecting the robust the planning & operations people towards the cleanliness implementation of the of Black Panther and the drive. business policies in the squad will be accountable state. directly to the Special DG Naxal Operation. Vol 2 | Issue 1 17

REWIND‘18 | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine NATIONAL The country has witnessed many significant occurrences in the year gone by, that left their mark in the history. We wish we could make you cruise through all of the them but as our limitations you know, it's quite a task. Thus, here we have encapsulated some of the events that would surely cross your mind over and over. MEGA RECRUITMENT COUNTRY'S FIRST SC'S MOVE TO CURB DRIVE BY INDIAN RAILWAYS ROBOTIC MISUSE OF ANTI DOWRY SAVES 10 LAKH TREES TELESCOPE HARASSMENT LAW Indian Railways went END OF AN ERA IN EYES THE COSMOS The Supreme Court gave its completely online for the DRAVIDIAN POLITICS The first Robotic verdict on a plea, recruitment on nearly Telescope of India on challenging its previous 100,000 vacancies to save as The demise of DMK 12th June was directive that only Family many as 10 lakh trees by patriarch M. Karunanidhi successfully installed Welfare Committees can vastly cutting down on the on 7th August was end of an at the Indian scrutinize section 498A that u s e o f s t a t i o n e r y. T h e era as far as Dravidian Astronomical deals with dowry country's leading employer Politics is concerned. The Observatory (IOA) at harassment. The apex court organized world's largest writer turned politician was Ladakh's Hanle. It has said that the welfare examination as the part of worshipped by his ardent been designed to committees will have no its recruitment drive. The followers and reverentially observe the cosmic role in dealing with the exam was held on August called Kalaigar (Artist) as he occurrences in the charges leveled against the 9,10,13,14,17, 20, 21, 29, 30 was much recognized for his timeframe, way spouse and in-laws thus & 31. Over 2.3 Crore linguistic prowess & shorter than light police has the complete aspirants applied for this screenwriting. His public life years, years, days & jurisdiction over such cases. mega exam. India's biggest lasted for almost 80 years and hours as well. This Whereas to protect the IT service provider, TCS the 50 years of which were breakthrough innocent ones from misuse was selected to power this dedicated as the party initiative was executed o f t h e l aw, t h e c o u r t recruitment process. TCS supremo. He served as the in collaboration by the reserved the provision of iON was used as the online Chief Minister of Tamil Universities & anticipatory bail. platform for this Nadu for 5 terms. research institutes examination that took place from Japan, India, Germany, the UK & in two shifts. the US. 18 Vol 2 | Issue 1

REWIND‘18 | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine ROUNDUP WORDS: DEEPENDRA DAS PHOTOGRAPHS: INTERNET FINALLY THE WITH INS ARIHANT INDIA COUNTRY HAS ITS ATTAINS ITS NUCLEAR FIRST GOLD IN TRACK TRIAD SEGMENT Launched on the PUNE-BORN ENGINEER AVANI CHATURVEDI A daughter of the nation anniversary of Vijay Diwas, BAGS OSCAR BECOMES FIRST WOMAN Hima Das made her 26th July, 2009, the first FIGHTER PILOT OF INDIA mark in the history by nuclear powered submarine Vikas Sathaye who is a clinching the Gold INS Arihant completed its Pune-born engineer, had After flying a MiG-21 Bison Medal in 400m final at first deterrence patrol on been a part of the Oscar fighter jet alone, 24-year old IAAF World U20 6th November, 2018. This winning team for Science & Avani Chaturvedi created Championships has given India the Technology segment. The history to become the first organized in Tampere, competence of being team invented Shotover K1 Woman Fighter Pilot in India. Finland that won the Nuclear Triad, as now the camera system for aerial She was aerial for 30 minutes country its first Gold in a country can fire nuclear cinematography as a in her maiden solo training. track event. Her father is missiles from Land, Air and crucial innovation to film Now, the country joins the fundamentally a farmer Sea. The nuclear submarine mid-air sequences. This elite list of the countries such who was quite is armed with 4 ballistic camera system was used to as Israel, the US and the UK overwhelmed after Hima missiles with a range of shoot the action sequences that have women in the active made possible the 'never 3500 km. This gives India in the movies to the likes of role for defence & combat. attained before' feat. This an edge over the “Guardians Of The will surely nudge more neighboring countries, Galaxy”, “Dunkirk” and Indian track athletes to bolstering the defence many more. perform better at such system manifolds. international championships to make the country proud. Vol 2 | Issue 1 19

WHAT’S NEW | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine Dictionary ChaiGarh ChaiGarh /‘chaaye-garh’/ noun a place in Raipur that is the Barbecue Nation of Chai. “the real experience of tea in winter comes at ChaiGarh” synonyms: tea stall, tea shop, tea bar, tea house, gupshupgarh, tapri; More Kulhar /‘kul-hadd’/ noun A cute handle-less clay cup made by a potter on a potter`s wheel. “the desi royalty lies in holding a kulhar of tea in the chilling evening” synonyms: cup, goblet, chalice, mug, tumbler, glass; More 8 easy steps to make Tandoori Chai WORDS: EESHAN SHARMA PHOTOGRAPHS: EESHAN SHARMA 1 LIGHT UP THE TANDOOR by mixing coal 20 Vol 2 | Issue 1 with fire. 2 LET THE KULHAR BURN by placing it into the now crimson Tandoor. Now, run to the kitchen.

WHAT’S NEW | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine 3 PAT YOURSELF ON THE WAY TO THE KITCHEN because you just helped a potter, who is, most probably and gradually, losing his/her job in this “smart”, metallic and plasticky world. PREPARE THE TEA 4 using the spices (ginger, cardamom, clove etc.) of your choice but make sure the tea is made up of 95 % THICK milk and only 5 % thin water. Wait!!! Did you add that secret ingredient in the chai??? If not, go to step 8. Else, GREAT!!! Move on. 5 READY THE CHALICE for the meeting of the 6 simmering chai and the fiery kulhar. GET THE SCALDING KULHAR OUT FROM THE TANDOOR & LET IT HAVE A ONE-ON-ONE WITH THE BOILING CHAI IN THE CHALICE. Enjoy the quick drama of the hot bubbles on the Kulhar while you let the earthen taste of the kulhar supercoat every molecule of the chai. 7 LET THE 95%-MILK-WAALI-CHAI GO INTO YOUR 100%-WATERING-WAALA-MOUTH while you read a book, watch youtube, have the best discussions, arguments or thoughts. 8 IF, YOU ARE MISSING THAT SECRET INGREDIENT TO MAKE YOUR CHAI A DRINK OF AMBROSIA, VISIT CHAIGARH. They will be more than happy to do it for you at a price which will pleasingly baffle you THEY ALSO DELIVER IT IN THE NICEST DELIVERY PACKAGE SO YOU COULD ENJOY THE TASTE P. AT HOME. S. Bon Appetite! Vol 2 | Issue 1 21

SPECIAL | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine A awn to BLoom - Wedding estinations WORDS: INDERPREET KAUR PHOTOGRAPH: INTERNET E ryone is excited for that one precious day when you start a new journey to a beautiful life - Marria ! CSo what if you to choose the best of the hhattisgarh from prelude of its existence has become an exciting and destinations for making this day more inviting tourist destination with the picturesque waterfalls, virgin forests, beautiful and wonderful? winding rivers and scenic plateaus that are all a visual treat to the eyes and camera lens as the state is a beautiful blend of nature, history, tourism, and And we know you would love to wildlife. However, there is a whole variety of attractions that are still pristine and explore those wonderful places in unexplored. And here we present before you such wonderful places our own Chhattisgarh! making your wedding plan more fanciful. AWESOME DESTINATIONS IN CHHATTISGARH! Mainpat - ‘Shimla of Chhattisgarh’ Colorful flower beds and lush green meadows are at their best in Chhattisgarh’s hill station Mainpat also known as ‘Mini Tibet’, which is now becoming a choice for destination weddings. LOCATION: A small village in the Surguja district in the northern part of the state of Chhattisgarh, India lying about 55 kilometers by road from Ambikapur. DO YOU KNOW? Karmesh Gupta from Chhattisgarh’s Sitapur who made the first booking at Mainpat for his daughter’s wedding said “I am a nature lover and I had a wish to host my daughter’s wedding at a place with natural surroundings. I thought of Mainpat.” –Times of India 22 Vol 2 | Issue 1

Venue F R Wedding Shagun Farms LAWN | BANQUET | ROOMS VIP Road, Vishal Nagar, Raipur (C.G.) Ph: +91 70650 09188

SPECIAL | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine P leasure Club Want a warm green surrounding? Want to sense an escape from the cityscape? Then you will find the Pleasure Club the perfect option, being a beautiful resort wedding destination. Undoubtedly, this is the most magnificent resort in Chhattisgarh. The soothing environment here works best to invigorate your mind, body and soul offering a great gamble to revitalize. AMENITIES: LOCATION: Opposite Maitri Dental College, 1. Multi Cuisine Garden Restaurant Rajnandgaon Road, Durg, Chhattisgarh 2. Specialty Bar 3. Rain Dance Area AVERAGE PRICE: Prices start at INR 3150 per night. 4. Doctor on Call 5. Valet Car Parking 6. In-house 24 X 7 Laundry Dev Hills Nature Resort Are you a nature lover? Yes! then cushioned in the lap of nature, the Dev Hills Nature Resort is an ideal option. It manages you out of your stress and worries of a city life on your priceless day! LOCATION: This nature centric resort is located AMENITIES: in the Barnawapara area in Chhattisgarh, lying 1.Air conditioning facility available at a nominal price. approximately 125 km from Raipur and about 25 2.All rooms are equipped with satellite television. km from Barnawapara. 3. Gypsy at hire for a jungle drive. AVERAGE PRICE: For reserve tents/cottages: 4. Modern design bathroom is available both at the tent house and the INR 4025 cottages of the resort. Want to go for an antique-ancient feel? Yes! then this option should be your pick-up. This palace was built in the 1st quarter of the last century and in 1937 it was rebuilt into a garden. Today, it is regarded as one of the most beautiful resorts in Chhattisgarh. DO YOU KNOW? Initially known as ‘Radha Niwas Bagicha’, the palace was the home of the British Agent during pre-independence times. At present, it is housed by the Royal Family, given its colonial world architecture, the palace has a distinct charm and elegance. LOCATION: In front of Deewan Talab, District Kanker, Chhattisgarh. AVERAGE PRICE: Kanker Pala Herita Main Wing and Annexe Rooms Single: INR 10,000 | Double: INR 16,000 Cottages 20 Vol 2 | Issue 1 Single: INR 7600 | Double: INR 9600

Glitters Entertainment (OPC) Pvt. Ltd. 217, Spark Plaza, Hotel Lalbagh Inn Building, Opp. Airtel Building, Telibandha, Raipur ( C.G. ) EVENTS & WEDDING PLANNER AKASH MITTAL Director 8109004000 [email protected]

WEDDING DESTINATION | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine Sunray Village Resort at visakhapatnam ‘A Destination of your happiness’ Q&A’s FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF WORDS: EESHAN SHARMA PHOTOGRAPHS: EESHAN SHAMRA & MANPREET SINGH The #1 Destinations for Wedding Q. Who is this for? beautiful coastal morning or by flight in just few hours or by road in 12 hours or by walk in 4 days. The choice A. For people who are in search of a premium is entirely yours as no holds are barred BUT JUST BE destination for their wedding near Chhattisgarh and by THERE!`Coz, in this case, it is not the journey that is the beach. important but the DESTINATION. Q. Ok. So, what do you suggest? Q. Can it accommodate 200 guests comfortably and A. I confidently suggest Sunray Village Resort. without setting my pockets on fire? A. Well,it can actually do more than 200 with its 17 majestic villas and 67 comfortable rooms. All this will be done without making you dig deeper into your pockets. Q. And where is that? Q. Maa is strict about having absolutely no meat A. Bhogapuram, Vishakhapatnam, around (if possible, in a radius of 10 kms) for the Andhra Pradesh (INDIA) whole of the wedding ceremonies. Anything for my momin it? Q. How do we get there? A. By an overnight train journey which ends with a 26 Vol 2 | Issue 1

WEDDING DESTINATION | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine A. Well, they cannot promise a 10 km radius. But what get beautiful shacks under the dense shade of the thick they can promise instead is the whole area of the coconut trees, by the beach..…dreamy…..right? resort, that is over 200 acres, free from all the meat while you are there at your meet. Q. Maa says, “ Saarey bartan toh puraaney meat Q. I am a big fan of breakfast by the pool. waaley hi use hone hain!”. How would I be pleased? A. Tell Maa to take a sigh of relief while the resort is A. Very simple. They will please you by offering private there to take care of that as well. They offer a pools and some other pool areas, with one having those completely separate vegetarian kitchen which, by all fun water-slides. It`s the dreamy place where not just means, is a great deal for the people like Maa who care the kids but also some golden-agers could start their about not hurting another living being on their special day with a splash. I believe, it will be the start of the day. But that’s not all Maa also gets the team of day that they would want forever. tellented chef ’s who excel at all the Indian fusions. Q. How about a place for the events like haldi, sangeet, reception, vidaai etc? A. 'A' place?? They have more than just 'A' place… Q. Do they have some indoor space that I can Q. I get overwhelmed by the preparations and the customize? formalities of the ceremony. Can I have a short but a A. Yes they do! They offer exquisite banquet facility complete break to relax while nothing floats inside which feels so royal once you are in there. my head? A. Of course you can! You do need to recharge your senses to have a blast again. And the meditational setting shown below is there, just for that. The only important detail this photo is missing is the rhythmic and soothing music that plays in very soft volume when you are there. Q. I will be there! A. Great! And remember to breath while the hospitality of the nature and their staff try to take your breath away. FOR RESERVATIONS, Contact: Q. I am planning a Bachelor`s evening/night at the 9490700146 [email protected] beach. A. You got it! But that's not all that you`d get. You also 9490700147 9490700148 Vol 2 | Issue 1 27

CATERERS | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine SERVINGwi LOVE Caterers WORDS: PRASHANT PAREKH PHOTOGRAPH: SHREEJI CATERERS 28 Vol 2 | Issue 1

CATERERS | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine As it is known to the mankind that the human body is made of 5 major elements- Air, Water, Fire, Space, and Earth; there’s another element which stands tall amongst these majorly minors, which is Food. Food is one element which surpasses every other aspect of life which minutely exists in this universe. For a country with such diverse culture, and unending festivals and events, be it an occasion to celebrate, or to feel sorry about- food is something which is always by your side. Serving such exquisite and appetizing food in Raipur for the past twelve years is “Shreeji Caterers”. A Company which has been serving PAN India with a motto of ‘Tastier the Food, Happier the Customer’, and achieving heights of success with every passing year. Shreeji Caterers was established in 2006, with a mindset of serving the tastiest and the best quality food in the State Capital. As the years passed, Shreeji kept evolving and progressing at a tremendous speed. “There is no Having served almost 1200 plus customers in the span of twelve years, across love sincerer the Country, Shreeji has not just been a pioneer for quality Food Catering in Raipur, but has than the Love also set a standard for all the other Food Caterers. As it offers services in various segments of food” including Weddings, Theme Parties, Corporate Events, Product Launch Events, Get-Togethers, Community Functions, Conferences, Exhibitions, Farewells, etc.; it’s not an easy task for Shreeji to - George Bernard Shaw manage things without an expert crew. With a team of 350 trained chefs for various cuisines, and a total man power of 1500 plus hands just in Raipur, things haven’t been really tough for Shreeji in the recent times. Having experts who take care of every event so that the customer can sit back, relax, and enjoy the celebration; Shreeji believes in being able to serve 10-12 weddings at a time without compromising with the quality. As the years have passed and the company has expanded, Shreeji Caterers has been experiencing the taste of success with its unique approach, everytime. Talking about the chief trait which makes Shreeji Caterers stand apart from all of its counterparts is the Food. With as many as 500 items in the Menu to choose from, and a team of trained chefs in almost every cuisine, it’s a no brainer for people to know that why do the Customers keep licking their fingers for days after having the food. Another USP of Shreeji Caterers is the discipline that we strive to work with. Having converted a number of our employees from having a habit of alcohol and tobacco to responsible individuals, Shreeji Caterers has been working the hearts out not to compromise with the service, ever. Moving forward with what we have in store for the already commenced Wedding Season, i.e. a concept of 8 Live counters (in each counter, 10 dishes) with Hundreds of new and refreshing varieties of Food which Shreeji Caterers has been planning to implement; and with Shreeji Events (Event Company) just around the corner, we have much more to offer in future. Still considering the team to be our biggest strength, it’s not a tough statement to make that Shreeji Caterers will keep evolving from strength to strength in the coming years, and will keep serving the tastiest Food to the people of Raipur. “HAPPINESS CONSISTS IN GIVING, AND IN SERVING OTHERS.\" To get served by a Team of Experts with the best quality service, CONTACT FOR MORE DETAILS: Deopuri, Raipur (C.G.) +91 88899 01811, 8225800900 shreejicaterers.co,in [email protected] shreejicaterings Vol 2 | Issue 1 29

WEDDING PLANNER | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine WORDS: ARMAAN SHARMA PHOTOGRAPHS: ARMAAN SHARMA 30 Vol 2 | Issue 1

WEDDING PLANNER | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine With almost two crore weddings taking place in India annually, a fraction of them fall in the beautiful state of Chhattisgarh. One of the reputed names which designs and executes such big fat weddings in the region is Humsafar Weddings. After 7 years of running the show, we have elevated the bar for wedding planning in the most popular cities of Chhattisgarh and alluring destinations across India and beyond. A company that started out of passion for event planning in Bhilai, Humsafar Weddings has come a long way with its strong clientele and successful projects in Udaipur, Jaipur, Surat, Goa, Mumbai, Delhi, Thailand and a few more. We believe, the world is the playground, quite literally. A one-stop wedding planning and designing power house – Humsafar Weddings includes everything from initial concept development and presentation to production implementation and on- day operations. Popularly known for ‘never say never’ approach, our team makes an all-out effort to help you as your companion rst, whether it’s cutting corners to save you some bucks or utilize them better, shipping a dress overnight, hooking you up with your favorite vendor or convincing a family member over tricky family dynamics. Our professional cap is crucial to us but not over your wedding dream! There has been a great shift in the wedding industry in the last few years. Marriages are made in heaven! True. But surely the fun and the frolic are all made on the Earth. Technology and innovation has altered the entire game and today the clients have varied choices from which they can pick. Indigenous as well as international vendors and specialized services are all available here. In fact, clients nowadays are extremely aware and knowledgeable about the market offerings, making it an ordeal for any company to be at par with trends while being cost effective. The Great Indian Wedding Factory! Vol 2 | Issue 1 31

WEDDING PLANNER | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine When it comes to weddings in Chhattisgarh, more and more couples & families are inclined towards hosting a grand marriage celebration in their hometowns. There are two major reasons for such inclination. First, the families do not have to cut down on their thousand plus guest list and second, the upcoming ve-star properties in the region. These new high-end properties are offering ample space for the generally famous Indian size weddings with stunning indoor & outdoor areas. After all, the state is indeed blessed with substantial natural beauty. However, contrary to this, is the popularly growing trend for destination weddings which the young couples seem very keen on embracing. The venue choices with the number of destinations available in India and internationally are cost effective for the guest list is slashed to only the near & dear ones, thus you get gorgeous locales and beautiful landscapes all around you and the idea of an intimate wedding ts perfectly well with their psyche and budget. It’s a win-win! 32 Vol 2 | Issue 1

WEDDING PLANNER | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine What sets us apart in this competitive landscape is our ve-sense approach to creating experiences that will be remembered for a lifetime. We ensure that everything you touch, taste, smell, see and hear at your D-Day resonates with your guests. Starting 2019, our plan is to expand our operations overseas and be fully equipped to take our local potential clients to fascinating, unique destinations and create experiences & memories that last forever. SO IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A COMPANION TO SAIL YOU THROUGH YOUR WEDDING, YOU KNOW WHERE TO FIND US. Shop No. 10 & 11, Old Sada Complex, Nehru Nagar, Durg - 490020 (C.G.) Contact: +91 83053 77774 | Website: www.humsafar.co Vol 2 | Issue 1 33

RAIPURIAN LOCALE | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine The City's Own ROSEBEY RESORT LLP RESORTS WORDS: ASHOK AGRAWAL PHOTOGRAPHS: ROSEBEY RESORT RESORTS Ama Seoni, Raipur Raipur being the capital city of the state, is always under the scanner for various reasons turning out to be much happening over the years but when it comes to destination wedding & theme parties, Raipur's name does not usually pop up in one's head as the said culture which is rapidly catching up in India, is not much of the vibrancy in the town as it has always lacked a conducive locale for such events.As such after starting off our venture- Landmark Hotel in 2014, gradually we came up with the idea of establishing the city's own fairytale venue to live the luxurious celebrations of all sorts within the stipulated budget. 34 Vol 2 | Issue 1

HIGHLY CAPACIOUS RAIPURIANS LOCALE | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine Sprawling over 8 acres of area Rosebey LAVISH AMENITIES Resorts will come off as the top choice for hosting events such as wedding, Being fully air conditioned, it has to offer swanky amenities that include anniversary, birthday, baby shower, parties, special play area for the ever moving kids to pacify them in a safe & conventions & more of any scale to take place secure ambience. In case if one feels the craving for a breather from in a serene & secluded environment where going gaga over the celebratory occasion the spa facility, swimming pool and the hosts & guests both can get immersed in indoor games along with soon-to-be-introduced restaurant & bar are going to the celebratory vibes utterly and absolutely. be always at the service. Not only suitable as a splendid outdoor venue but it's The 80,000-square-feet lawn and 18,000- also adorned with a royal banquet hall as mentioned earlier, that has enough square-feet pillarless banquet hall add much space to let the host show off his splendor before as many as 300 people at a grandeur to its majestically spatial stretch. time.The formal proceedings or casual occurrences of the interactive gathering, Moreover, one need not shorten the guestlist as we have comfortable accommodation, and have their place at the devoted hospitality with 102 air conditioned special conference hall. rooms. The vehicle influx here by the local It has two blocks which guests, is taken care of by the large size are entirely parking lot. operational to facilitate the hosts for indulging in conducting two different private functions simultaneously. EXUBERANT EXPERIENCE Our fundamental focus is upon giving the hosts & guests an exuberant experience of destination wedding & theme based parties in the town that usually the Raipurians have been seeking out of the station. This venue is capable of turning your big fat wedding, grand celebration of any sort or even a small scale party into a mini vacation with the services to your luxury & leisure for the lavish style functions thus warding off your aversion of being messed up with choosing a perfect venue as the locale is now available near yo u r l o c a l i t y. Furthermore, this pristine location is in the close proximity of hospitals, malls, schools and other significant landmarks along with the robust connectivity for travel and transport in town. We are to serve as the most conducive & appropriate venue for all types of parties, humongous celebrations and destination wedding including formal & informal conventions in order to make the Raipurians count every moment of the fun & charm of the occasion they would love to enjoy without looking beyond the city for a worthy location. From the perfect blend of capacious indoor & outdoor space that various functions of a wedding fairly require to the cozy amenities of accommodation and recreation with Rosebey Resorts the people will come to know that the city finally has its dream venue to host events of great magnificence. Vol 2 | Issue 1 35

COVER STORY | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine ABHILASHA AGRAWAL YOUNG, VIVACIOUS AND READY to take on the World! WORDS: NATASHA AGRAWAL PHOTOGRAPHS: JAAS N NEEL STUDIO 36 Vol 2 | Issue 1

COVER STORY | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine “Beauty has so many forms, and I think the most beautiful thing is condence and loving yourself.” - Kiesza A Qualied Software Engineer, a model by Passion and an Anchor by Profession, standing 5 Feet 9 Inches tall, Abhilasha has been walking the Ramp since 2016 and has won a number of Titles at various Beauty Pageants. Recently Abhilasha represented India at the Miss Asia Pacic International 2018 beauty pageant at Manila, Philippines. So, let us hear her story of the journey so far in her own words. The city girl Abhilasha belongs to an educated Family, her dad being a Mechanical Engineer , and her mom a Teacher. Since childhood, her parents wanted her to complete her formal education and then pursue the career of her choice. So, she pursued Software Engineering from the coveted Sri Shankaracharya University and right after garnered a work experience of 2 years at a reputed International Organization in Pune. Abhilasha always wanted to be a Model, books did not interest her much, and she wanted to move to Mumbai, but the pressure from her family prevented her from doing so. She finally moved back to Raipur to follow her dreams. Her friend Ashish helped her choose Emceeing as a career and move closer to her dreams. “Emceeing enhanced my Stage Presence, Condence, and my Public Speaking Ability. While anchoring I was guided by Ramp Walk Expert Miss Alesia Raut to enroll for a formal Training in Ramp Walk, Posture and Poise in Mumbai”, added an ardent Abhilasha. “Winning my First Title, Miss Chhattisgarh in 2017, gave me the confidence to move ahead. Soon after I represented Chhattisgarh in the Face of India in the year 2017. Through Alesia I was introduced to Deepali Phadnis and from here my journey began as a participant of the Miss International Asia Pacific Pageant. Out of 800 entries I was among the 65 who were shortlisted to represent India, internationally. Finally I was representing India to win the prestigious title at Philippines.” After surviving the Various Rounds – Swimsuit, Evening Gown, National Costume, Presentation and Interview, at the Pageant, Abhilasha emerged winner of the 2 Titles- Red Fox Asia Pacific 2018 and Ambassador of University of Pepertual Help. Vol 2 | Issue 1 37

COVER STORY | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine An aspiring TV Host, Abhilasha tells us that she did face a lot of challenges along her career path. Her parents belonging to a Traditional Marwari family did not support her in following her dreams until now when she represented India in the International Beauty Pageant. She struggled to participate in quite a few pageants before she finally got selected. Most of the Beauty Pageants have pre-decided winners and are scripted is what she realized, they don't focus entirely on Talent and are a way of making money these days. Being from a Tier 2 city, we do not have Grooming Institutes, Enough Mentors, and Trainers in Ramp walking, modeling. Abhilasha's message for the aspiring Models is “ACCEPTING YOUR FLAWS IS ALL IT TAKES! I HAVE THE PERFECT BODY TO BE A MODEL BUT I DO NOT HAVE THE PERFECT SKIN. I WAS ASKED TO GIVE UP. BUT I WORKED ON MYSELF AND ON MY STRENGTHS!” 38 Vol 2 | Issue 1

What’s New In RAIPUR! Now krafting The Taste at RAIPUR Near PWD Bridge, Anand Nagar-Pandri Link Road, Katora Talab, Raipur +91 75027 77772 | icekraftraipur/icekraftinternational Crafting your curiosity Gifting Ideas | Trouseaue Packing | Shagun Potlies Cash Envelops | Flower And Gota Ornaments Babyshower Gift Packing | Corporate Gift Packing Wooden Trays | Wooden Baskets Ranipink&Miskiya By Vanshika Agrawal Wallfort City, Bhatagao, Ring Road, Raipur (C.G.) M: +91 92292 08901 E: [email protected] vanshikaagrawal.va

COVER STORY | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine “When you have done your part it’s time to release your work into the universe and let it do its part.” - Maria Erving PRAVEEN PURENA : sking in his own manifestation WORDS: SOURABH ACHARYA PHOTOGRAPHS: PRAVEEN PURENA 40 Vol 2 | Issue 1

COVER STORY | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine \"Everything you feel and do are in some or the other way connected to changes taking place in the universe. The more you do good for yourself, the more you can leave it on the universe to do its part\", says the optimistic Praveen Purena when talking about his struggles which have led him here. The attitude with which he believes in taking things forward, and an approach never seen before, help Praveen leave a striking thought in the bystanders' minds about his journey. a Fitness Model Actor Graphic Designer Big Muscles Nutrition Athlete and above all, a pure and profound soul; Praveen has been a pioneer of Fitness modelling to induce the aspiring youth of Chhattisgarh. Born and brought up in Bilaspur, Praveen recalls his young days calling himself a shy lad in his childhood. This left him with not many friends to seek support from. With not many friends to back him up in his early days, and a will power touching heights, he inally decided to move to Delhi to achieve his dreams in the best possible way. This was when his passion for gym grew, and just to make it big in the industry he was wishing to get into, he toiled his nerves out to achieve that ripped physique. Parallely when he pursued his course in Mass Communication, things weren't as hard for him until he inally decided to compete professionally. Having all his money spent on the competitions, and getting no fruitful results, Praveen also tells about days when he had to eat bland rice to survive, and walk for 6 kilometers just to train in a gym which was less expensive than the others, along with keeping that physique in place which was an impossible thing to even think about. The only energy which kept him going in these Vol 2 | Issue 1 41 days of hardships was his own will power, and positive approach towards everything which was going to happen. \"Every hardship is a phase in life, and every phase passes when the right time approaches.\", Praveen adds when talking about any breakdown he faced during those tough times. Currently based in Mumbai, having overcome all those and still working to better himself, Praveen has had a shot at acting in his few works which include a supporting role as Kaamdev in Neeli Chatri Waale, and a lead role in Zing Channel's Pyaar Tuney Kya Kia Season 6. Calling these as teachings for his future assignments, Praveen seeks something big and calls his recently released video song- \"Maahi Mera Ve\" a turning point in his professional and personal life. Praveen is someone who believes in manifestation, and supernatural powers acting for and against an individual's destiny. He was never supported by anyone in his initial days as a Fitness model or actor. Things looked a lot blurry from a distance, and it was not easy to understand them for people living in a small city like Raipur or Bilaspur. When asked about what would he have been if not an Actor or a Model, Praveen outrightly says, Painter or a Graphic Designer. Having worked as a professional graphic designer for two years, and an inclination towards painting & sketching from his very early days, Praveen was never short of choices. But, as they say- the brave takes the harder path and comes victorious- Praveen was and is one such brave lad.

COVER STORY | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine Strictly against nepotism, and the trend to reach that level of popularity and fame because of a family background or a supportive hand in the industry, Praveen recalls his days when attending auditions and getting rejected each time over became a habit for him. All because, one or the other starson bagged that role. Currently, with numerous projects in pipeline, and recently released video song Maahi Mera Ve, Praveen announces his arrival in the industry and says that the song emerges as an eye opener for everyone in the industry, and his career might change completely after this. A strong head Pravn cas for no support, and wishes to make it g in the instry with his own harork, and we wish him a the luck and perseverance he serves to achieve it a. 42 Vol 2 | Issue 1

HISTORY | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine Regarding Medical Practice As WORDS: DR. SANDEEP DAVE & RAIPUR LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE PHOTOGRAPHS: MAYUR SEJPAL The medical profession anywhere in the entire world is considered nothing less than the act of the almighty as when an ailment tightens its hold, a patient always looks up to a medical practitioner, completely entrusting him with the very responsibility of his life. Formidable & equanimous in the times of operating upon the patients the doctors are also human beings who are prone to make mistakes but learn profoundly from each passing experience so that those who entrust them can be treated in the best possible manner. It can been said that a doctor fully aware of his responsibilities & duties is simply meditative, being an instrument of the divine for the well-being of the patients. Here we have brought to you the interview of one such medical practitioner and Founder & Managing Director of Ramkrishna Care Hospital, Dr Sandeep Dave who is reputed as the Master Of Laparoscopic Surgery and considers the profession not at all as any other but as a lifestyle for emerging meaningful to the needy ones in his every action. “My major advice to the people of this city is, they should adopt healthy lifestyle so as to cut down on the expenses on the medicines. Some exercises should be done and if not convenient, at least simple walking can make a world of difference. Most of the days in a month, one must eat for the nutrition and not for the taste as accumulating more amount of carbohydrate & fat, only harms the body. People should keep themselves away from all sorts of addictions so that it can't go above one's head to cause psychological mayhem.” - Dr. Sandeep Dave Please Turn Over Vol 2 | Issue 1 43

HISTORY | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine What was it that motivated you to human touch beyond any requirement of doctors for the ever get into healthcare sector? discrimination. As, at times, a patient growing population have resulted in Well it's my own illness that served as does not have any organic ailment but less number of institutes. Now the the biggest motivational factor for me simply hypochondria that has to be shortcut move comes around as the to get into healthcare sector. During my treated with an entirely different bridge courses to the practitioners like earliest boyhood I used to get sick approach. BAMS doctors and nurses. recurrently. Fortunately my father was able to afford the treatments I have What sacrifices you usually have to What is your outlook on the been through. Yet, it occured to me that make or have made in the past? sanitation & health facilities in it would be very tragic for those who I have not been able to give quality time Raipur by far? could not get necessary medical to my family and most importantly to A lot has to be done in the city in terms facilities owing to their financial my children. This is the regret I have of sanitation & health facilities though conditions. And so, I chose to become a lurking within. I can recollect only one some improvements can be witnessed. I doctor to help such people. or two occasions when I was able to am content that at least Raipur is not make it to my children's school topping the list of the most polluted Please tell us about your childhood & function. Apart from this, my children cities in the country. Since last 6-8 early education. could not spend the time when a father months there are major construction From pre-primary to my medical bonds with the kids involving in projects going on that surely have education, I have completed them all in frivolous chattering or important paved the way for more pollution to Raipur. I had always been an average discussions on various life situations. It sneak in the city. I would also like to add student and never got any gold medal always crosses my mind that why on the that there are no considerable but cleared all the examinations with earth I could not find one or half an hour provisions made for an effective sewer distinction. I was selected in the PMT in for the children from my tight schedule. and drainage system which leads to the my very first attempt. I have vibrant & potable water crisis. I feel it's very wonderful experiences of my school What is the significance of unfortunate that after so many years of days & friends. Most of the friends are punctuality in your profession? independence we are unable to take a still in the city whom I meet whenever I Punctuality plays a very significant role leap beyond this fundamental crisis can get time for a get-together. These in this profession which I find lacking in otherwise the recent epidemics of friends who have been my strength, I most of the doctors nowadays. I don't Hepatitis & Jaundice that claimed lives rely upon and look up to without a remember a single time when I was not of many youth could not have occured. second thought in any adverse in the hospital by 8:15 in the morning. All in all, I am not satisfied with health situation that I find grave. Unless & until I am done with my awareness & cleanliness in the city but whatever schedule for the day, I don't it's not the burden just of the authorities If not a medical practitioner, what even look at the watch. In addition, I as public responsibility & mass profession would you have chosen have never refused any emergency in mobilization also should come into the otherwise? my entire career. fray. I would have been in the defense services otherwise. In class 5th I was What do you think has What is your opinion on the even selected for Rashtriya Indian triggered the lack of sincerity Sanjeevani 108 Emergency Military College. But my health and & loopholes in this profession? Ambulance service? other medical complications did not let I am happy that this service was me make it through, to fulfill this dream It has been triggered because of the introduced in the state as the much of mine. corporatization of the hospitals & needed one but yet I have to mention medical facilities. The medical that the vehicles as of now are not up to What is the major quality that you education is also becoming costlier. The the mark as they should be, considering feel every doctor must have? new medical practitioners are more the emergency service they have to What I feel is, every doctor should have from the private medical colleges than offer. As such it has to be relooked into that passion which drives one to come the government medical colleges. It's for the significant improvements to out of the shell of petty identifications not that the rookies don't have revamp the service for it is quite crucial to treat the patients as his or her own competence but the lack of effective to help the people dwelling in the family members in order to give some policies and not analyzing the remote areas in their horrible times. 44 Vol 2 | Issue 1

HISTORY | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine What would you say about the doctor as one can also opt to become a an open mind as the malpractices in the healthcare sector in Chhattisgarh? nurse or a lab technician in a particular society are everywhere. Those who are Before the formation of the state the department. Moreover, the indulged in the corruption are just healthcare system was almost nothing. administrative segment in this sector is handpicked ones. If a doctor advises But now the medical facilities are also open for the young blood. In short, you a surgery then you are entitled to growing. I personally have visited the there are humongous opportunities in have a second opinion over that. But tribal belt where Bijapur, Sukma & this field which can definitely lead India when you are certain to give your life in Dantewada have good healthcare to become a medical hub with the hands of a surgeon then have centers and as these cities are on the affordable quality healthcare services. complete trust on him. fast-track towards development along with the dedicated & incentivised Could you tell us in brief about the Would you like to mention any case doctors serving in those areas, the Laparoscopic Surgery? that you recall the most? medical services are catching up with When I completed my studies the As a surgeon I discharge my duties with need of the time. Though it can't be Laparoscopic Surgery wasn't even the 100% commitment towards every generalized everywhere across mentioned in the text books by then. case I am involved in. Thus I can't regard Chhattisgarh. The staff quarters for the Though it is now on the way to turn a one single case more important than medical practitioners must be common practice which has already the others. Every patient comes with refurbished and there has to be enough been for the past few years in the different level of complications & infrastructure within the 10 kilometers private hospitals. This is the future of severity that I look into with different for the fundamental necessities of the effective & efficient surgery which is approach every time. families of the doctors posted in the far- done with making small hole in the flung regions. body to insert a miniature camera & other apparatuses for performing the Kindly throw light upon your daily operation without making large cuts. schedule. I get up around 5:30 AM and work out Would you like to talk about the for at least 1 hour. Then I go on reading malpractices prevalent in the newspapers ahead of leaving for the healthcare industry that you want hospital where I reach between 7:30 & the people to be aware of? 8:00 AM. From 8:00 AM I go for my daily Prescribing antibiotics has created a lot rounds to see all the admitted patients. of vacuum in the country as not much Thereafter I enter the operation theater antibiotics we have but resistant & in between surgeries I also come bacteria. Evidence based medicine down to check the patients in the OPD. I prescription must be in common usually operate nearly 8 cases on a daily culture and as such people should basis. This stretches to 10-12 cases at question prescribing antibiotics & the times. My day at work ends by 6:30 PM nutritional products done not for a valid then I look into the administrative work reason. Furthermore, people must have if there is any and leave by 7:00 PM. What would you suggest the youth aspiring for a career in the healthcare sector? For those who are willing to venture into such a career I would like to say that it is one of the best career options as by the end of the day the experience of the job in the healthcare sector turns quite satisfactory for this is a significant contribution towards the human well- being. It is not just about becoming a Vol 2 | Issue 1 45

SOCIAL | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine THE ROBIN HOOD ARMY IN FORCE: 21.1797 N, 81.7787 E WORDS: DIVYA AGRAWAL & NIKITA GOSWAMI PHOTOGRAPHS: DEVASHISH RATHOD & ABHYUDAYA SHUKLA Hunger is more Rightly said and brought into force, the 'Robin Hood Army' originated in Delhi on 26th than missing a august 2014, when then the executive member of Zomato, Mr. Neel Ghose saw the meal. It is a crisis wastage of food all around the city. He along with his friends began a social group that has almost a called 'THE ROBIN HOOD ARMY' focused on ameliorating the condition of poor and billion people in its slum-dwelling people by feeding them with quality food. It is inspired by Re-Food, a grip, so always serve Portuguese organization where volunteers collect excess food from the local restaurants, the hungry people. grocery stores, school canteens, and other food sources to distribute it to the people in need. Soon after the Robin Hood Army (RHA) was founded, the idea spread in the other - THE ROBIN HOOD cities too. ARMY Today, this philanthropic organization is spread across 13 countries and in India it spreads its stretches to more than 118 cities. In Raipur, Chhattisgarh, RHA began its functioning on 4th August 2018. It has inculcated 130 volunteers in the city, with the values and work process of the organization, for its effective functioning. The most interesting part of the formation of the RHA is that there is no age bar for being a member. In addition, there is zero monetary involvement to start off such a programme with. RHA has different chapters based on conducting food drives, health & awareness drives and education drives. In Raipur, Bhilai and nearby areas, it is inclined towards conducting food drives and have conducted 35 drives till now. Along with this, they also conducted a winter drive which involved donating blankets to those in need, mostly to the people sleeping on the footpaths or on the platforms of the railway station. Moreover, they also donated clothes to the needy ones during Diwali. RHA in Raipur collects excess food from Birthday parties, Marriages, Bhandaras and other occurrences as such, and serves the hungry ones ensuring they don’t sleep with an empty stomach. The volunteers are spread across different locations in the city. These locations are mostly slums. RHA also has tie-ups with restaurants like the Gulshan Sweets, Hotel Sun Om, CG 04 and the Lions Club of Raipur which provide food in huge quantities for free. RHA ensures the food quality, as the volunteers themselves check the food edibility before it heads for consumption. Not only this, the collection and reporting of the daily activities (drives), are done by the different head volunteers of different cities to the main headquarters in Delhi to make sure that RHA effectively functions in that area of the country. 2730+ Academy Students 756+ Academy Graduates 30+ Cities 46 Vol 2 | Issue 1

SOCIAL | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine The RHA volunteers supply the excess food and are ever ready to even serve the food for one person anytime. There are no boundaries for them as they utilize their own vehicles for transporting food. There are thousands who are fed with zero money spent. The main reason behind the people working for the RHA is “THE WILL” of those people who want to help the less privileged ones, by providing them with food and clothes. Till now RHA, Raipur has served more than 11,575 people and has donated more than 2,500 clothes. The food is usually given in packets, and people who are interested to give disposable utensils for the packaging of food for the poor people, are also welcomed by the RHA. It also ensures proper disposal of the disposables after the food is consumed. Robin Hood Army has recently begun its education drive chapter in Raipur, the 'Robin Hood Academy' which conducts Sunday classes of 2-3 hours, for 60 underprivileged kids at A hunger to reckon, Shyam Nagar, Devar Dera. The fun-filled and interactive manner of the teaching process, makes the classes for a smile to conducive for less fortunate children to be well aware and informed for turning their lives better. It has also planned to enroll them give!!! in school in the future. Be a part of our Story Join the Robin family If you want to be a Robin, log in to www.robinhoodarmy.com OR You can help us by- 1) Donation of raw food materials, stationary and packaging materials. 2) Volunteer Time in food drives. 3) Volunteer time in Education drives. For any queries, Contact- +91 62648 97456 | +91 79870 99561 Vol 2 | Issue 1 47

BUSINESSMAN | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine “Fly, Think bigger and story, and guess what? market his products. He kept on expanding his business to better, Read between the Don't just keep guessing, keep Varnishes, Phenyl, and various lines, Have a Vision. other allied products before Following this Gurumantra reading as the story unfolds a lot landing on the idea of given by Mr VV Joshi, for the manufacturing paints. As past 27 years, I have worked more to keep you intrigued. Imdadi was already dealing in towards achieving a new Paints, there was no better way goal, each day”, says It was in the year 1911, when to expand the business than Mr Mansoor Zafer - Imdadi group came into existence. Founded Paint manufacturing itself. He, Founder and Managing by three Brothers, Tahir Ali Zafer, Saifuddin then traveled to Mumbai to Director of Popular Paints Zafer, and Mansoor Zafer's Father learn the process of Paint and Chemicals. Mohammed Ali Zafer, it was started as a manufacturing at Goregaon small family business in Raipur. \"Those Paint Industries, which was Established in the year were the days of misery and hardship for our owned by one of his Father's 1984 by brothers, Mansoor Zafer, entire family when my Father and other two friends. \"If you want to learn Abbas Zafer and Shabbir Hussain Uncles worked as labourers and mechanics, something, you should feel like Zafer, Popular Paints and and it was not easy for them to rise up from a learner before even trying to Chemicals has brought about a that condition and even think about doing go about it\", Mansoor Zafer wave in the Paints and Chemicals something of their own,\" Mr Zafer told added talking about his market since its inception. Setting talking about his family's struggles during journey in Mumbai. up the company from the scratch, the initial days of Imdadi. After the success learning how to manufacture paints of Imdadi, things started changing slowly It was here when and allied products, keeping the self and gradually for their family, and until the the journey of Popular Paints updated with the ever-changing time when the next generation was supposed and Chemicals started with a technologies and upgradations, and to take over, they had already built a goal to go big in the industry. then sustaining in the market for 34 goodwill in the market for themselves with With 34 years of service under long years, it has been quite a their business, and their financial condition the hut, Popular Paints has not journey for Popular Paints and had also improved. only grown into Central India's Mansoor Zafer, till here. We tried Biggest company dealing with knowing more about Popular paints However, the destiny wanted Paints and allied products, but by diving deeper into his something else from them. This was the also has the biggest moment when Mansoor and Shabbir Zafer sophisticated plant spread in an took things in their hands with a thought of area of 5 acres and a 30,000 sq establishing something of their own. It was ft double storey factory which on May 13th, 1978 when Mansoor Zafer looks after the production. started his first work after getting a license of Ranging from decorative Spirit to manufacture furniture polish. paints (interior and exterior) to Having started his production work from a industrial ones and from the 150-200 sq ft room in Baijnath Para, he premium to economic quality, never believed in taking any financial help ‘Popular paints’ believes in from his family. In fact, he even used a serving the customer with the bicycle as the mode of commutation to best quality. Industry-specific paints are something Popular MANSOOR Paints believes in customizing as per the demand of a specific ZAFER industry.\"You can't make your work talk with your name behind it, your work gets your name popular among the masses.\", Mansoor Zafer quipped talking about the service which Popular Paints as a brand has been delivering. 48 Vol 2 | Issue 1 Painting dreams WORDS: SOURABH ACHARYA PHOTOGRAPH: MANSOOR ZAFER

BUSINESSMAN | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine However, his journey (Vice President, Marketing), and Aliquan \"Hardwork, God's grace, and the has been full of ups and downs Zafer (Director, Marketing) are the pillars belief of the masses are the only which have made him even of the company while every major decision three things which make a brand stronger with time and have led is still taken care by Mansoor Zafer himself. sustain in the longer run, and we've him to where he is, today. With the motto 'Best possible quality, most always done our part with honesty, Having met two major competitive rate,' ‘Popular Paints’ has not receiving even more love from the accidents in 2002 and 2012, only made a name in the market, but has people.\", Mansoor Zafer says Mansoor Zafer was left with also made a place in people's hearts. With talking about his message to the Multiple rib fractures, lung some employees working since the past 25 aspiring entrepreneurs and also punctures, spinal cord injuries years, it is so evident that there's something, adds by saying that Work is and many other clinical which keeps people connected to the worship, and one should always be injuries after the latter. After family. With an eye to spread its wings to honest with what they do. Having spending almost 110 days in Jabalpur, Nagpur and Gujarat in the been through so many traumatic the ICU (98 of those on financial year to commence, ‘Popular incidents, the zealous Mansoor Ventilator) and almost 2 Paints’ aims at serving PAN India, very Zafer is still able to work for 10 complete years on bed, it was soon. hours a day. He has never shied just his will power and God's away from his work front, inspiring grace that he can sit in front of It doesn't leave an impact on the us all to strive towards making a us, and recite his story in his society when someone who is already rich success story rather than making own words, today; as he says. and stable, earns more and gets richer. But excuses for the trials and Va r i o u s D o c t o r s h a v i n g when a grounded man gets bigger with his tribulations. You will fail, you will believed this to be a miraculous own hard work, an everlasting impact is left get hurt, but you should never stop. case, and calling his will to live on the society. Mansoor Zafer believes a lot as the only pushing force in giving, and has been doing a lot of works which has him overcome his for social cause. After every Ramazan of the condition, his story can more year, the next Sunday calls for Ijtemai or less be considered a story of Nikah, where he along with his committee hope- a hope which knows no organizes and sponsors a complete bounds.\"Always believe in marriage function along with the gifts and miracles, never lose hope, and food, and blesses the couple to have a at the same time keep working successful and happy married life. As this hard and don't leave practice has been taking place for almost 22 everything on God to mend,\" years, now, Mansoor Zafer believes in not the smiling Mansoor says showing off and just being subtle and talking about all the feelings simple with what he does, keeping it to he had to go through during himself. his days on the bed. Currently run by a team of around 250 plus employees, ‘Popular Paints’ serves four states and deals in 17,000 plus shades. With 100 plus running projects at the time, and a dealer base of more than 1200, ‘Popular paints’ sums everything with an experience of 35 plus years backing everything up. His three sons, Hussain Zafer (Managing Director), Mohammed Zafer since 1984 Vol 2 | Issue 1 49

POLITICIAN | Raipur Lifestyle Magazine he life of a public representa ve always revolves around the concerns, aversions & needs of the common man so as to address every aspect to the very fundamentals. A leader takes diversity as a resourceful means to garner an all inclusive blend of knowledge & informa on on a constant basis to discern the worthwhile ac ons to be planned for the efficient execu on in order to not get stuck in the cliche rhetoric but to keep treading progressively on the path to development under the flagship of democracy with every individual having a righ ul say. Such is the expecta on from our newly elected Chief Minister & the legislator from the Patan cons tuency, Bhupesh Baghel who has been a public face for nearly 3 decades being in the relentless service of Chha sgarh Mahtari & its people. Bhupesh Baghel In The Time of Soaring Hopes WORDS: DEEPENDRA DAS PHOTOGRAPH: INTERNET 50 Vol 2 | Issue 1