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Taylor Swift To End Eras Tour With The Launch Of Her First Book

October 16, 2024, 3:31 pm

Taylor Swift has made an exciting announcement to celebrate the conclusion of her Eras tour. On Tuesday, the pop superstar revealed that she will release her first book, titled *The Official Eras Tour Book*. This publication will include over 500 photos, featuring many exclusive behind-the-scenes shots from the nearly two-year tour, providing fans with an intimate glimpse into her iconic concert journey.

“We’ll be kicking off the final leg of The Eras Tour this week, which is hard to comprehend. This tour has been the most wondrous experience, and I knew I wanted to commemorate the memories we made together in a special way,” Swift shared on Instagram.

In addition to the photos, Taylor Swift indicated that her upcoming book will contain “own personal reflections” on the tour, celebrating “all the magical memories you guys brought every single night” during her performances around the world. Alongside the book’s release, the 34-year-old artist will also conclude the tour with the launch of *The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology*, a special edition of her latest album available on CD and vinyl. This edition will be exclusively sold at Target stores in the United States, with plans for an international release later.

After nearly 22 months on the road, Taylor Swift’s Eras tour is poised to conclude as the highest-grossing concert tour in history. Forbes estimates that it has generated nearly $2 billion across 149 shows, with the final performance scheduled for December 8 in Vancouver. The tour has significantly impacted local economies in cities worldwide since its launch in March 2023.

With the upcoming book release, the Eras tour will finish its run with impressive achievements across multiple platforms, including record-breaking ticket sales and a $261.7 million global box office take for its concert film. The special edition, *The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology*, will be available exclusively on vinyl and CD at Target starting November 29.

Thief Takes Break From Robbery To Read Book: Here’s What Happened

August 27, 2024, 11:23 pm

In an unusual turn of events, a thief in Rome was so engrossed in a book that he momentarily forgot his criminal intentions. The 38-year-old suspect had broken into an apartment in the Prati district through a balcony but became fixated on a book about Homer’s Iliad, Giovanni Nucci’s *The Gods at Six O’Clock*, which he found on the bedside table. Despite the homeowner, a 71-year-old, confronting him, the thief was so absorbed in reading that he seemed oblivious to his surroundings. He was eventually caught trying to flee through the same balcony.

Giovanni Nucci, the book’s author, was thrilled by the news. “It’s fantastic. I’d like to find the person caught red-handed and give him the book because he’ll have been arrested halfway through reading it. I’d like him to be able to finish it,” Nucci told *Il Messaggero*.

The thief claimed to the police that he had climbed the balcony intending to visit a friend and had mistaken the apartment for a bed and breakfast. “I thought I had ended up in a B&B, saw the book, and started to read it,” he told BBC. He was also found with a bag containing expensive clothing stolen from another location earlier that evening.

In a related incident, a thief in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, fell asleep while robbing a house in June. The intoxicated burglar, who had broken in and stolen items, turned on the air conditioner and dozed off, only to be arrested by police the next morning. The house belonged to Dr. Sunil Pandey, who was away on official duty.

A Literary Odyssey in the Second Innings: A Conversation with Prof. Seema Jain

August 23, 2024, 4:18 am

Alfred Lord Tennyson said in ‘Ulysses’ “ … all experience is an arch wherethro’ / Gleams that untravell’d world whose margin fades/ Forever and forever when I move.” The literary odyssey of author Seema Jain bears ample testimony to her unending passion for literature, for which she is marching ahead with redoubled vigour and zeal post her retirement. Here are the excepts from her recent conversation with the team Daily Guardian.

Excerpts
Q. Please tell us about your literary journey.
A. My literary journey has been long and rewarding. I have 14 published books, including five collections of my English and Hindi poems (with two more in the pipeline), two edited anthologies, two translated novels (one of which is published by the Sahitya Akademi), three collections of translated poems, and several other critical books. Additionally, I have many prestigious translation projects underway.

Q. Which book is your favourite, and what are your chief themes?
A. One of my favourite books is Vibrant Voices: An Anthology of 21st Century Indian Women Poets in English, which I edited and was published by the Sahitya Akademi. It represents the voices of 102 contemporary Indian women poets writing today from across India and abroad. My themes focus on women-related issues, social problems, the environment, war, and human relationships.

Q. How else have you contributed to literature?
A. My work, including poems, stories, interviews, and forewords, is featured in over 130 national and international anthologies, journals, books, and even the digital pandemic archives of Stanford University, USA. I have presented poems at various online and offline poetry meets and literature festivals, including Sahitya Akademi’s Sahityotsav, FOSWAL (Federation of South Asian Writers and Literature), Washington DC South Asian Literature Festival, and regularly participate in poetry meets and talk shows on Doordarshan and AIR. Additionally, I have served as the editor of the Creative Pages of the international journal English Scholars Beyond Borders.

Q. Any other milestones?
A. My critical reviews, as well as reviews by eminent scholars of my works, have been published in prestigious papers and journals like The Statesman, Sahitya Akademi’s Journal Indian Literature, Different Truths, and Setu. I also work as a reviewer for literary awards and book publications for top national and state literary organizations. Additionally, I serve as the Vice President of Mahila Kavya Manch Punjab, President of Litspark: A Literary Forum, and have been honored with numerous prestigious awards.

Q. What are your plans?
A. Literature is an ocean with unlimited pearls. Post-retirement, I continue to passionately pursue writing, critical and editorial work, and trans-creation. I plan to write a longer work of fiction, curate more anthologies, and bring out additional collections of my poetry through translation.

Q. What are your challenges as a writer, editor, and translator?
A. As a writer, there are phases of productivity and dormancy that I believe most writers experience. Being an editor is both a challenging job and a rewarding experience. As a translator, the toughest ordeal is capturing connotative meanings, language-specific idioms, and cultural nuances.

Q. What is your advice for budding writers?
A. Believe in yourself, follow your passion, listen to your heart, and never give up.

Unlock your potential by transforming stress into strength

August 23, 2024, 4:14 am

Have you ever wondered how stress, that relentless serpent, can be harnessed for your personal growth? In the labyrinth of life, the stress coils around us, threatening to drain us of our time, energy and clarity. But what if we could turn this adversary into an ally?
Stress to Zest takes you on a journey to help you understand how seven common stress factors impact the human mind:

=Financial Stress: The weight of bills, debts and financial uncertainty.
=Relationship Stress: The tides of love, conflict and connection.
=Job Stress: The demands of work, deadlines and ambition.
=Health Stress: The fragility of our bodies and minds.
=Competition Pressure: The race against others and ourselves.
=Social Pressure: The expectations that shape our choices.
=Parental Pressure: The balancing act of nurturing and self-care.
In this collection of stories set in diverse contexts across the globe, you’ll meet characters from all walks of life grappling with these stressors. Their journeys are not mere survival tales; they’re blueprints for transformation. Witness how they navigate the storm, find resilience and discover a newfound zest for life.
Stress to Zest is more than a collection of stories; it is a guidebook for your own metamorphosis. Are you ready to turn stress into a secret weapon? Dive in and discover this alchemy of personal transformation.

About the author
Aritra Sarkar is an author and a thought leader using storytelling as a powerful medium to bring about a social change through his books, writing and repertoires.
Aritra’s debut novel, Goliath of Shenzhen (2016), is a groundbreaking work—told in both visual and prose formats—garnering international acclaim for its powerful message against authoritarianism. In 2018, he expanded his storytelling repertoire with the audio drama Stilettos and Dentistry, designed to motivate listeners to overcome funding challenges.
His short stories have appeared in esteemed literary magazines and anthologies. Sarkar is a founding member of the Kolkata-based spiritual foundation Oneness.
Before fully dedicating himself to literature and spiritual development, Aritra was with The Wall Street Journal and then with the ABP group in Kolkata for several years. He then founded MeVero, the world’s first passion-based social networking platform.

A Timely Call for Women’s Rights: Dr. Aruna Kalra’s I Want a Boy Exposes the Harsh Realities of Sex-Selection in India

August 23, 2024, 3:59 am

BOOK REVIEW
A profoundly impactful and eye-opening book that courageously tackles the deeply entrenched issue of sex selection in India, I Want a Boy by Dr. Aruna Kalra, a distinguished obstetrician and gynecologist with over 25 years of experience shines a light on India’s troubling obsession with male children with her experiences that exposes the grim reality of sex-selection procedures and their impact on women’s lives.

The book is more than just a collection of stories; it is a wake-up call for society. Dr. Kalra takes the reader on an eye-opening journey through the lives of women from both affluent and marginalized communities, all of whom face the same societal pressures to bear male offspring. Her vivid descriptions of the heartbreak and suffering endured by these women make the book an emotionally charged and unforgettable read.

At the core of the book lies the stark reality of selective abortions and their devastating impact on women’s physical and emotional health. The author presents real-life cases from her practice, where the desire for a male child leads families to resort to extreme measures, including repeated pregnancies and selective terminations. These practices are not confined to a particular socioeconomic class; they are pervasive across Indian society, from high-end maternity homes to government hospitals.

Dr. Kalra’s narrative is further enriched by her autobiographical accounts, providing a glimpse into her transformation from a medical practitioner who witnessed these atrocities to a vocal advocate against them. Her journey is both inspiring and disheartening, as she recounts the numerous cases where women, stripped of their autonomy and self-respect, succumbed to societal pressures.

The book serves as a scathing critique of the cultural norms that continue to perpetuate the preference for male children. Dr. Kalra exposes the outdated rituals and practices that still dictate the lives of women, often reducing them to mere vessels for producing male heirs. Through her candid and unflinching portrayal of these issues, she challenges readers to confront the deep-rooted biases that sustain this harmful mindset.

In one of the excerpts, the author shares a powerful and emotional moment in her medical practice. A frail, exhausted woman, burdened by repeated pregnancies, faces the pressure of societal norms over her health. Dr. Kalra’s frustration with the situation highlights the deep-rooted challenges women face in making choices about their bodies. The scene powerfully illustrates the tension between cultural expectations and the need for better awareness and support for women’s health.

One of the most striking aspects of I Want a Boy is its timeliness. In light of recent atrocities against women, including the widely publicized Kolkata incident, Dr. Kalra’s work is a crucial exploration of the ongoing struggle for women’s safety and rights in India. She emphasizes that the fight against gender discrimination is far from over and calls for greater empathy and understanding towards women’s health and well-being.

Dr. Kalra’s writing is accessible and authoritative, making complex medical and social issues understandable to a broad audience. Her ability to blend personal anecdotes with broader social commentary adds depth to the narrative, allowing readers to connect with the stories on a deeply emotional level.

In conclusion, I Want a Boy is a compelling and necessary read for anyone interested in understanding the challenges faced by women in contemporary India. Dr. Aruna Kalra’s courageous and compassionate approach to the subject matter makes this book an essential contribution to the ongoing discourse on women’s rights and safety. It urges society to confront and change the deep-seated cultural biases that harm women and strip them of their dignity.

Revisiting India’s History And Culture

August 9, 2024, 3:54 am

Art for the sake of Art movement in literature became a bohemian creed in the 19th century; a slogan raised in defiance of those—from John Ruskin to the much later communist advocates of socialist realism who were of the opinion that the value of art was to serve some moral and didactic purpose. It was a rejection of the Marxist aim about literature. But it seems that Ravi Valluri, a renowned Indian author does not subscribe to the Art For Art’s Sake movement when he is particularly viewed through the prism of his mesmerising book “ Indian Stories: Images & Thoughts. Real authors as Geoffrey Chaucer puts in his words, never wallow in their personal grief and sorrow. Neither do they remain confined to their own ivory towers. They closely engage with the society they inhabit and depict it in its various hues and shades through their literary masterpieces.

Quite in a similar manner, the author of the book Indian Stories: Images & Thoughts, has thrown light on the different aspects of life in India with his vast experience which he has gathered while traveling in the every nook and cranny of india in the capacity of a highly decorated officer of the Indian Railways.

Therefore, while analysing this book, no literary critic will dare to refute the fact Valluri has obviously no leanings towards the school of Art for Art’s Sake. Au contraire, he appears to be influenced by the Art for Life’s sake school. We all understand the dictum that literature is a mirror of society and mirror to society as well. Indian Stories: Images & Thoughts is a book in which the writer chooses to wax abundantly eloquent about India’s history, culture, architect, places etc. He has, in this way, commendably shown us a mirror of Indian Society, the glorious ethos of which is deeply rooted in its heathy cultural roots. What an authentic picture of India, the author paints on this literary canvas!

Much to our gratification, It has even been mentioned in the blurb of the book also that India is a never ending saga and story. This ancient civilisation has remarkably amazing stories to narrate. Dwelling on the structural facet of the book, it will be really pertinent to remark that the author has most meticulously and prudently segmented this book into four sections which retain deeply engaging subtitles such as “Wanderlust Discovering India By Rail”, “Wondrous India: Discovering the Lesser- Known Trails,” “Well-Known Personalities, Lesser Known People” and “Wavering Mind, Wandering Thoughts.”

It is, no doubts, not the first book in the history of literature that sheds light on the cultural history of India but what makes it stand apart from the other books is the sheer elegance with which the author has carried forward his narratives. The profuse usage of subtle and sublime imagery in all the sub-narratives opens the inner eye of the readers and superlatively spell-bound, they feel as if they are beholding a three dimensional picture. Such is the literary prowess of the author of this excellent book. The rich and diverse culture of India has umpteen sub-cultures too which have been reflected over with utmost finesse. The book is also seeped in the essence of mythology with the undertones of biography and memoir. Written in an easy-to-comprehend language, this must-read book will endow readers with a slew of opportunities to discover the spirit of India.

Slice of Reverie: A Poetic Journey Through the Soul

August 2, 2024, 4:14 am

Divya Venkateswaran’s A Slice of Reverie is a lyrical exploration of the human experience, a collection of poems that delves deep into the heart of the poet and, by extension, the reader. It’s a book that invites introspection, evoking a range of emotions from quiet contemplation to passionate intensity. Venkateswaran’s poetry is characterized by its raw honesty and accessibility. She writes with a clarity and directness that is both refreshing and impactful. The poems, while deeply personal, resonate with universal themes of love, loss, hope, and longing. The poet’s ability to capture the nuances of human emotion is evident in every verse.

One of the strengths of this collection is its diversity of form and style. Venkateswaran experiments with different lengths and structures, demonstrating her versatility as a poet. Whether it’s the concise and impactful short forms or the more expansive longer pieces, each poem leaves a lasting impression. The imagery in A Slice of Reverie is vivid and evocative. Nature is a recurring motif, used to reflect the poet’s inner world. Images of the sky, the sea, and the earth are woven seamlessly into the fabric of the poems, lending them a sense of depth and resonance.

The poet’s exploration of themes such as love, loss, and identity is particularly poignant. Poems like “Petrichor” and “Shadow” delve into the complexities of human relationships with a raw vulnerability that is both captivating and heartbreaking. On the other hand, poems like “Outside the Window” and “Diamond” offer a glimmer of hope and optimism, demonstrating the poet’s ability to balance light and shadow.Venkateswaran’s voice is distinct and authentic. Her poems are a reflection of her own experiences and emotions, yet they speak to a universal human experience. It is this authenticity that makes her work so relatable and compelling.

While the collection as a whole is impressive, there are certain poems that stand out. “Superwoman: A Myth” is a powerful indictment of societal expectations of women, while “Are We Aware” is a thought-provoking exploration of environmental consciousness. The short, sharp verses of “Yellow Butterfly” offer solace and reassurance in the face of life’s challenges.

A Slice of Reverie is a book that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned. It is a testament to the power of poetry to connect with readers on a deep and profound level. Venkateswaran is a poet of considerable talent, and this collection is just the beginning of what promises to be a brilliant career.

Books to Look Out for This Week

August 2, 2024, 4:06 am

Author -Sonali Sharma
Publisher – Papertowns India
Price – 200/
Life and surprises? Are they different or synonymous with each other? As we know, life is always a metaphor for the journey. Lets take you on a journey through your life and make you re-live some memories close to your heart.
Life Explored is a heartwarming picture of everyday life and the stories inspired by real incidents amidst the chaotic lives of ordinary people around them. In 16 different tales, Sonali delves deeper into memories of teen age, life in college, and the experiences of people she’s crossed paths with. These stories and the characters are raw, uncut, and a little vulnerable, with a heart full of warmth and kindness.

Author: Jayanthi Sankar
Publisher: Zero Degree Publishers
Price: 299/
Curated and edited by the renowned internationally acclaimed Singaporean writer Jayanthi Sankar, Dancing Gold Flecks is an anthology of 27 modern short stories from 18 Indian and writers of Indian origin. There was a call for submission under a generic theme of ‘Adapting to Changes’ post covid. This collection consists of stories of various voices ranging from psychological trauma to friendship, from migrants living overseas to simple people living in slums. Some of the contributors have two of their pieces published in the volume.

Author: Prakash Iyer
Publisher: Penguin India
Price: 200/

Motivation, positive attitudes and self beliefs together mold the success of individuals. Prakash Iyer’s Habit of Winning does not show the path to success, instead it shows one how to travel in the path towards success. For this purpose, he has used the life stories of many achievers in diverse fields as evidence. Not only has he mentioned famous figures, but he has also cited examples of ordinary people. Success cannot be confined to a single aspect; it has many dimensions. This is the concept he delivers in each one of his stories. He has also written about goal planning, which is a crucial element for success. The Habit of Winning has made use of many interesting anecdotes throughout.

Author: Rohit Prasad
Publisher: Griffin Publication
Price: 479
Encouraged by the success of his debut book “The Pilgrim: Inferno Redux,” Rohit Prasad has followed up with his second thought-provoking and tantalizing book “Mood Swings,” a collection of short stories. Nine engrossing tales, each imbued with the essence drawn from one of the nine basic emotions, capping off with unexpected endings. The author presents a mélange of captivating stories that delve into the complexities of human feelings and experiences. From the challenge of overcoming a horrible blunder to the liberation of stepping outside one’s comfort zone, the stories promise to offer a rich tapestry of narratives.

Amitabh Kant unveiled ‘India’s Odyssey: From a Developing Country to an Emerging Super Power

June 7, 2024, 4:54 am

Oakbridge Publishing Private Limited announced the launch of ‘India’s Odyssey: From a Developing Country to an Emerging Super Power,’ authored by Pratap Singh, a senior bureaucrat and Principal Commissioner of Income Tax. The highly anticipated book was unveiled by the distinguished G20 Sherpa, Amitabh Kant, and former DGP of Chhattisgarh, Binay Kumar Singh, at an event held at Taj Palace, New Delhi.

The book launch ceremony was attended by dozens of serving and retired bureaucrats and distinguished dignitaries from various walks of life. ‘India’s Odyssey’ offered a comprehensive exploration of India’s transformative journey from its ancient civilization through periods of foreign rule, to its post-independence development, and emergence as a formidable global power.

At the launch event, Amitabh Kant highlighted that under PM Modi’s leadership, the country was growing from strength to strength and would assume a greater role in the global arena. He stressed that the book would be quite useful for students and policy planners. Binay Kumar Singh praised the present government’s efforts towards the cultural rejuvenation of the country.

Pratap Singh, the author, shared his insights, stating, “India is an idea whose time has come. ‘India’s Odyssey’ encapsulates the extraordinary journey of our nation, from its rich ancient heritage to its current status as an emerging superpower. This book meticulously highlighted our achievements in various fields, such as politics, economy, technology, and defense, while also addressing the challenges we have faced and continue to face. It was not just a reflection of our past and a record of our present, but also a bold vision for our future. I hope this book inspires readers to appreciate the progress we have made and to believe in the limitless potential of our great nation.”

The book also delved into the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, military strength, and India’s achievements in space technology, digital innovation, and e-governance. Environmental challenges, infrastructural development, and the burgeoning startup ecosystem were explored, showcasing India’s resilience and forward-thinking strategies.
Mr. Shailendra Kumar, Chairman of the TIOL Knowledge Foundation, said that India today stood at the tipping point to commence its odyssey toward developed country status but emphasized that economics needed more leeway. He noted that India also needed to overcome many internal contradictions in society and glaring distortions in its polity. The book is now available for purchase on various eCommerce platforms, including Amazon and Kindle. The author, Pratap Singh, can be reached at www.pratapsinghirs.com.

Book titled ‘Cyber Encounters’ on cybercrime unveiled by CM Dhami

May 7, 2023, 5:33 pm

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday released a book titled “Cyber Encounters” at St. Joseph’s Academy, Rajpur Road.

DGP Uttarakhand Ashok Kumar and former DRDO scientist OP Manocha authored a book which has been praised by CM Dhami for its relevance to an important subject. The book analyzes cyber crimes and draws from true incidents, offering insights that will help readers avoid falling victim to cyber crimes. CM Dhami lauded the authors and the publisher, Prabhat Prakashan, for their efforts. The book not only raises awareness through true stories but also entertains readers, inspiring them to take measures to protect themselves from cybercrime on each page.

The CM emphasized that cybercrime is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, and the book authored by the state’s DGP enhances public awareness of this challenge. With the rapid development of technology, the rate of cybercrime is also increasing, leading to an ongoing cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and criminals, with both parties trying to outsmart each other. The rising trend of cybercrime highlights the fact that criminals are constantly devising new techniques. To counter this, the police are also continually improving their methods. However, we as individuals can protect ourselves from these technical crimes by being vigilant and aware.

Most anticipated book awards of Asia “Golden Book Awards” announces winners of 2023

February 3, 2023, 4:23 pm

Wings Publication has announced the winners of the Golden Book Award 2023, a highly-acclaimed recognition program honoring exceptional Authors. The Jury to awards was Dr Kailash Pinjani (President Indian Authors Association), Dr. Deepak Parbat (Founder of Superfast Author) & Murali Sundaram (Founder of TLC). The winners include Ashneer Grover, Jeff Kinney, J.K Rowling, Gaur Gopal Das, Ruskin Bond, Namita Thapar, Kamlesh Patel, Geeta Piramal among others.

Somewhere Among the Stars: Reflections of a Mystic

January 23, 2023, 2:30 pm

A book that delves into the concepts of consciousness, reality, space, and time from a Vendantic perspective chronicles a woman’s journey for love and truth. As the story unfolds, it takes the reader on a journey of self-exploration, discovery, and development.

Somewhere Among the Stars was released last year and is being formally launched at JLF 2023 this year. A woman’s inner quest for love and truth across lifetimes and dimensions is an adventure of consciousness through the rare terrains of Vedanta and Yoga.

Adi Varuni writes on Indian spirituality and mysticism and lives incognito. Decades ago, when an unknown Norwegian teacher wove nuggets of philosophy into a mystery, it gave birth to the all-time bestseller Sophie’s World, in which Sophie, all of 14, returns from school one day to find two letters, each with a question—’Who am I?’ and ‘Where does the earth come from?’ Sophie felt her brain stirring as she contemplated philosophy.

Adi feels his soul stirring as he contemplates Vedanta. Falling in love with the elderly and serene Ahana, a voice in his head compels him to write Ahana’s story, bringing alive fascinating dimensions of Vedantic mysticism. Adi is spellbound and restless to understand Krishna’s answers to Ahana’s questions.

When it suddenly falls into place for Adi that it was Ahana who had brought him to Almora and to Vedanta, and that he has veiled memories of her from past lives, he knows he has to go back and ask her one last time.

As Ahana gradually absorbs into silence, this Sophie’s World meets Vedanta mesmerizes you with its depth. If there ever was a beautiful, simple story to introduce Vedanta and explain our existence, then this is it.

Writer and educator, Partho has spent more than thirty years in integral education and has done intensive personal research in trans formative learning processes. Partho is one of the leading alternative educationists in the country and is associated as a mentor and consultant with many education initiatives in India. He conducts educational and spiritual retreats in India.

A Magical journey with spells and rituals

December 20, 2022, 1:27 pm

Om Books International is proud to announce the publication of Wicca: A Magical Journey with Spells and Rituals. The book’s launch event took place at Ophelia in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, with Shashi Tharoor as the chief guest. Salman Khurshid, Ajay Mago, Ritu Mago, Sandeep Bamzai, Dr Nidhi Kumar, Mukesh Tyagi, Neeraj Sachdeva, Ruchira Sachdeva, Pawan Ahuja, Kanika Ahuja, Ruhi Ganguly, Neelam Saxena, Kunal Kohli, Visashwar Shukla, and Sujay Ghosh were among the other notable guests. “Rashme’s book makes compelling reading.

In her writing, Rashme displays a deep knowledge of the psyche of Wicca, of healing witchcraft and of the exotic practice of spells and magical wizardry. The reader is led through a bewildering maze of incense-filled prose which will assail your senses as though you are physically by her altar,” said Dr Shashi Tharoor, Member of Parliament. The book is an easy self-help manual for working spells to improve your life circumstances. It provides a concise introduction to the subject while also raising awareness about the Wiccan world.

It will help dispel the myth of a witch being ‘evil’ and make people realise that the modern-day witch is engaged in working for the highest good. The author, Rashme Oberoi, said, “I have structured it as a handbook and guide to Wicca and Wiccan practices, drawing on my experiences. Unlike most international books which provide complicated spells, I have used simple tips on how to improve your finances, relationships, remove obstacles and heal yourself through re- energising and cleansing your chakras and auras.” Ajay Mago, publisher at Om Books International, says, “I love the way Rashme has demystified the world of Wicca in simple, layman’s terms. She makes it accessible. Above all, she speaks of the healing power of the practice. We already have a number of international publishers seeking translation rights for it. We have a bestseller in our hand.

Editor-in-chief of Om Books International, Shantanu Ray Chaudhuri, added, “The book has been an eyeopener for someone like me who had no idea of Wicca. Rashme’s book introduced me to a fascinating world. I am sure many readers will echo my thoughts.” “The book is not just an eyeopener and an informative guide; it is also a gripping story of a Wiccan. [The book] will captivate your mind and soul,” said Shekhar Gupta, editor-in-chief, The Print. “Rashme’s book makes a very interesting read while being educative. She has candidly revealed the secrets of the Wiccan tradition,” Nafisa Ali, actor, politician, and social activist. “A very well-written treatise in which Rashme brings out the healing aspects of Wicca. Definitely a must- read,” said Sandeep Bamzai, author, CEO and MD, IANS.

The launch event took place in New Delhi, on Monday. Ruhi Ganguly, Founder and CEO, Question Associates was the media partner for the event. Rashme began making predictions through tarot cards for clients roughly three decades ago, when tarot was not known as an art of divination in India. Along the way, she learned the Wiccan way of life, which involves practising positive spells to manifest wishes and desires for herself and her clients ranging from health, relationship to financial issues. She formally studied the religion and craft of Wicca. She practises shamanic, pranic, crystal, and chakra healings. Today, Rashme is an accomplished Wiccan, a healer, and a divinator. Rashme hosted a weekly show on Zee TV on tarot, dream interpretations, and crystals for four years. Currently, she is hosting the weekly show for all sun signs on the digital platform of Zee TV.

UNHERD is a fictional tale of love, wisdom, and strength

December 20, 2022, 1:17 pm

Kartikeya Ladha introduces yet another book, UNHERD – A Tale of Love, Wisdom, and Strength. The book reflects the different changes the world has undergone over the last few decades, necessitating a break from consumerism and groupthink. The author first gained international recognition after the launch of his first book, Dream Beyond Shadows, in late 2018. Dream Beyond Shadows became an Amazon bestseller in India after capturing people’s imagination with countless insightful stories based on Kartikeya’s experiences during a life-changing expedition to Peru, South America. This purpose-driven book will be Ladha’s third after his two best sellers, LIFE UNKNOWN and Dream Beyond Shadows.

UNHERD is a tale of loving and losing, of understanding the darkness and light within oneself, of travel and adventure, and of how life can surprise, inspire, and encourage if one allows themselves to dance to the tunes of life. This book is not only meant to inspire but also to bring light to the many questions in the minds of countless people, “What is one’s purpose in the world? What is the true meaning of being alive? What truly matters in life? How does one live a happy and fulfilled life? How does one overcome their darkness? How does one bring light to their life, to this world?” A successful author of two books, Dream Beyond Shadows and LIFE UNKNOWNA passage through India. Dream Beyond Shadows created a path for Kartikeya to encourage thousands to embrace creativity and courage in their lives, and to pursue self-discovery. Kartikeya’s travels within India inspired his second book, LIFE UNKNOWN – A passage through India, which takes the readers even further into the deep unknown to face the darkness in life; to be able to recognise the ever-blazing light that shines within them.

Commenting on the launch, Kartikeya Ladha, the author of UNHERD says, “This book is nearly a divine calling. Through all of these experiences, this story is not just about hope but about transcendence. It takes the readers through a revision of their own lives while making them realise that they can overcome their suffering and pain. Even though the human condition has us operating through the medium of pain and suffering, we need not become a victim of the pain. Suffering can be put to an end. We have the option to live in love rather than fear. The story UNHERD is about that choice.” UNHERD is a coming-ofage story, created keeping in mind the exponential changes our world has gone through in the last few decades, where breaking out of consumerism and herd mindset have become the needs of the hour. UNHERD is not only meant to inspire but also to bring light to the many questions in the minds of countless people – What is our purpose in the world? What is the true meaning of being alive?

What truly matters in life? How do I live a happy and fulfilled life? How do I overcome my darkness? How do I bring light to my life, to this world? This book aims to answer these questions in the form of a story that encapsulates romance, philosophy, mystery, adventure, and travel, carrying the readers through the alternating realities of New York’s streets and many parts of India. The book is published by Anecdote Publishing House and is now available on Amazon. An accidental writer with an online community of thousands across the globe, Kartikeya Ladha first gained international recognition after the launch of his book, Dream Beyond Shadows.

He is also the author of Life Unknown, which is about his travels in India, another bestseller on Amazon. Kartikeya used to live in the U.S. before quitting his job and letting go of his plans to build a life in America. Since then, he has been on a quest to discover our existence’s absolute truth, which has inspired travels to distant lands. His artistic imagination springs from his desire to create works that exemplify the rawness of ‘what it means to be a human being’. His latest creative endeavour, UNHERD is a fictional tale of love, wisdom, and strength. Whilst Kartikeya is no longer in the digital world, he continues to keep writing books and deepening his craft to share his creations with the world.

Shashi Tharoor gives Ambedkar a title of India’s first male feminist

November 20, 2022, 2:16 pm

The father of India’s Constitution Dr BR Ambedkar was a forward thinker even for today’s times and could well claim the title of India’s first male feminist, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Saturday said.

At the Goa Heritage Festival, Tharoor discussed his most recent book, “Ambedkar: A Life,” and said that even now, society has not fully accepted Ambedkar’s feminist thinking.

“Way back in 1920s, 30s, 40s, he (Ambedkar) made speeches, including in front of a female audience, which today would be considered as progressive for a male politician. He was probably India’s first male feminist,” the Congress MP said adding that Ambekar urged women not to allow themselves to be forced into marriage, to delay marriage, delay childbirth. He urged them to stand up to their husbands as equals. “It was a remarkable feminist thinking of this man 80-90 years ago.” he said.

“There is a tendency to see Ambedkar as a Dalit leader. He was the principal Dalit leader of the country. From his early 20s, he was an influential voice and became more and more influential,” Tharoor said.

Ambedkar was an extraordinary constitutionalist, being the chairman of the drafting committee. It was he who presented and defended every single one of the provisions of the Constitution, he added.

Never read a book in my life: Kanye West

September 21, 2022, 1:17 am

Kanye West has given yet another unusual remark. West appeared on an episode of the ‘Alo Mind Full’ podcast and revealed that he hasn’t read a single book. He said, “I actually haven’t read any book”.
Kanye West further told hosts Danny Harris and Alyson Wilson, “Reading is like eating Brussels sprouts for me. Talking is like getting the Giorgio Baldi corn ravioli”.
His statement has shocked many because, ironically, Kanye runs a school in California—DONDA Academy.
The statement comes right after a Page Six report that revealed Kanye West’s “secretive school” called Donda Academy makes parents sign an NDA, or non-disclosure agreement, for enrolment.
The statements of two parents, whose kids have been attending the school, confirming the news were quoted by Page Six. However, Tamar Andrews, a consultant to the school, tried to debunk the families’ claims.
Page Six further quoted a Rolling Stones report wherein Tamar revealed that “the parents of each student only have to sign an informal agreement — but didn’t specify what that agreement was.”
“Honestly, we don’t care if people know about the school,” Andrews added.
“The people that want to come to the school are looking for a good Christian school in that area, and they know that we’re there. There is also a certain notoriety that comes with being affiliated with Donda. So, I don’t know that we have to advertise, which is a blessing and a curse. “
Malik Yusef, Kanye West’s longtime friend and collaborator, agreed, saying the school provides students with opportunities that other institutions do not.
“The process of Donda school is for the parishioners, for the attendees,” he added. “I don’t think Kanye needs to tell the world what he’s doing so that he can be under more scrutiny.”
According to Page Six, the tuition fee of the school is around USD 15,000 a year, but nearly half the children admitted there have received some form of scholarship or financial aid.
However, Andrews confirmed the Christian academy is still in the process of becoming accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
According to the US news portal, maybe this is why Kim Kardashian is hesitant about sending her kids to school. Earlier this month, Kanye asked Kim to send their kids to the academy and split their education between their Los Angeles school and Donda Academy in Simi Valley, California.

Five books every millenial should read

August 31, 2022, 5:09 pm

Have you ever read a book and thought of adding them to your TBR pile? Books are our friend we have heard this all around but have you ever read a book that changed your perspective on life? It’s a list of five books that millennials should read which will form and change them both professionally and personally. You can read and learn from these books that are essential for every personal collection. Enjoy!

Crying In H Mart by Michelle Zauner

Crying In H Mart is written by Michelle Zauner and is written by the singer and guitarist of the musical project Japanese Breakfast. This incredibly, unflinching, and powerful moving memoir centers around her relationship with, and the eventual death of, her mother. Everyone should read this book as it offers an intimate and moving picture of life and a perspective from which it is very difficult for many to come out. It also emphasizes your relationship with your mother and your cultural upbringing.

Know My Name by Chanel Miller

Know My Name is a 2019 memoir which is written by American author Chanel Miller. Know My Name novel emphasizes the story of her experience being sexually assaulted and how she recounts, relives, and reconciles with a terrible event. Meanwhile, she also comes to know her resilience. In the story, Chanel has put her entire heart. After reading Know My Name it will forever transform the way we think about sexual assault and the challenges of accepting and speaking the truth about the harrowing trial.

Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton

Everything I Know About Love was originally published in 2018 and has been written by Dolly Alderton. The books show things about life which depict the ups, and downs of life while we grow up. The book offers an insightful look into human nature which every millenials, will enjoy and relate to.

A Very Large Expanse of Sea by Tahereh Mafi

A Very Large Expanse of Sea is written by Tahereh Mafi who is a remarkable author. It evolves the story of Shirin a Muslim teenager who lives in America. Shirin faces many problems due to her race, religion, and decision to wear a hijab in school. The book explores post-9/11 societal biases, Islamophobia, and cultural commentary.

Kids These Days: Human Capital and the Making of Millennials by Malcolm Harris

Kids These Days: Human Capital and the Making of Millennials is written by early Wall Street occupier Malcolm Harris who gets real about why the millennial generation has been wrongly stereotyped. The book by Harris shows the trends like absurd student debt, the rise of the intern, and social media to portray to be a member of the unfairly maligned generation.