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Vidyapeeth Corner Fest-2026 Draws Large Crowds with Cultural, Spiritual and Community-Focused Activities

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Bengaluru, June 27: The two-day Vidyapeeth Corner Fest-2026 commenced on Saturday at Gajendra Vilas Hotel, Vidyapeeth Circle, Katriguppe Road, Bengaluru, attracting enthusiastic participation from residents, families, entrepreneurs and community members. The festival, which continues on Sunday, featured a vibrant blend of spiritual, cultural, social and health-oriented activities.
The event was inaugurated by L.A. Ravi Subramaniam, who lauded the organisers for creating a platform that promotes cultural heritage, community engagement and social well-being.

A major highlight of the day was the mass recitation of Lalitha Sahasranama and the Bhagavad Gita, which witnessed participation from devotees of all age groups. The spiritual atmosphere was further enriched by devotional bhajan sessions and religious programmes that drew considerable public interest.

The cultural segment showcased a variety of performances, including the presentation of Srinivasa Kalyana , which was well received by the audience. A matrimonial conference was also organised as part of the festival, providing a platform for families and prospective brides and grooms to interact and connect.
Adding to the festival’s community-centric approach, several women entrepreneurs set up stalls displaying a wide range of handmade and home-produced items. Visitors had the opportunity to explore and purchase unique products, while also encouraging small-scale and home-based businesses.

A free basic health screening camp was conducted by NU Hospitals, Mission Road, Bengaluru. The camp witnessed a strong response, with a large number of visitors availing themselves of health check-up services. The health camp was inaugurated by K.N. Chayapathi, who appreciated the initiative aimed at promoting preventive healthcare among the public.
The matrimonial conference was inaugurated by veteran film actor Shankar Bhat , who commended the organisers for facilitating meaningful social interactions within the community.

The festival was organised under the leadership of Hanumesh K. Yavagal, President of the Karnataka State Digital News Media Association.

Speaking on the occasion, organisers expressed satisfaction over the overwhelming public response and participation across all segments of the event.

With its successful combination of spirituality, culture, entrepreneurship, social networking and healthcare awareness, the opening day of Vidyapeeth Corner Fest-2026 concluded on a high note. Organisers expect an even larger turnout on the second day as more programmes and activities are scheduled to take place.

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“Healing Hands Honoured” Karnataka Celebrates Nursing Excellence at 25th Florence Nightingale Awards

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Bengaluru, June 27, 2026: The silver jubilee edition of the Florence Nightingale Awards celebrated the remarkable contributions of Karnataka’s nursing fraternity at a grand ceremony held in the Banquet Hall of Vidhana Soudha. Organised by the Florence Nightingale Award Committee, Bengaluru, the 25th edition recognised nurses for their outstanding clinical service, unwavering commitment to patient care, and dedicated contribution to the healthcare sector.

The event was inaugurated by Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Minister U.T. Khader, in the presence of Medical Education Minister Dr. Sharan Prakash Patil, Shivajinagar MLA Rizwan Arshad, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences Vice-Chancellor Dr. Bhagavan B.C., and Health and Family Welfare Services Commissioner Gurudatta Hegde, IAS, who attended as the Guest of Honour. The function was chaired by Ivan Nigli, former MLA and Chairman of the Florence Nightingale Award Committee.

Speaking at the ceremony, U.T. Khader described nurses as the backbone of the healthcare system, acknowledging their tireless service and vital role in strengthening public health, often under demanding conditions. Twelve nurses from across Karnataka were honoured with the Florence Nightingale Award, each receiving a memento and a cash prize of ₹25,000.

A key highlight of the silver jubilee celebrations was the introduction of special award categories. Among the prominent recipients was Thara Machado, Assistant Nursing Superintendent at Father Muller Medical College Hospital, Mangaluru, who received the Silver Jubilee Best Nursing Officer Award in recognition of her nearly three decades of exemplary service.

Other awardees included Seema K. from Taluk Government Hospital, Raichur; Bharathi Mendigeri of Taluk Government Hospital, Belagavi; Leelavathi K.O. of Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru; and Nanda Prakash from Cheluvamba Hospital, Mysuru.

Reflecting on the milestone, Ivan Nigli said the awards, launched in 2000 by the Anglo Indian Unity Centre to honour excellence in nursing, had evolved into one of Karnataka’s most respected recognitions for the profession. Over the past 25 years, more than 250 nurses across the state have been honoured for their exceptional service.

Congratulating this year’s recipients, Nigli said the awardees continue to uphold Florence Nightingale’s legacy of compassion and selfless care in hospitals, primary health centres and rural communities. He also expressed gratitude to the Government of Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara, and Ministers U.T. Khader and Dr. Sharan Prakash Patil for their continued support.

The ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening nursing education, expanding healthcare training opportunities, and recognising the indispensable role nurses play in delivering quality healthcare across Karnataka.

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Belly Fat Isn’t Just About Diet-Stress Matters Too

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How Chronic Stress Leads to Stubborn Belly Fat

Dr. Aravinda S. N., Lead Consultant -Internal Medicine, Aster RV Hospital, Bengaluru

Chronic stress does more than affect mental well-being-it can also influence where the body stores fat, with the abdomen being one of the most common areas. According to Dr. Aravinda S. N., prolonged stress triggers the continuous release of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. While cortisol plays an essential role in helping the body respond to challenging situations, persistently high levels can disrupt normal metabolism and encourage fat accumulation around the waist.

One of the key reasons for this is cortisol’s effect on appetite. Elevated cortisol often increases cravings for calorie-dense foods rich in sugar and unhealthy fats. Many people also turn to emotional eating during stressful periods, seeking temporary comfort through food. Over time, this leads to excess calorie intake and weight gain, particularly around the midsection.

Long-term stress also affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. High cortisol levels can reduce insulin sensitivity, making it harder for cells to use glucose effectively. As insulin levels rise, the body is more likely to store fat-especially visceral fat, the deep abdominal fat surrounding vital organs. Unlike fat beneath the skin, visceral fat is strongly associated with an increased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.

Stress often disrupts healthy lifestyle habits as well. Poor sleep, reduced physical activity, irregular meal timings, and increased alcohol consumption are common during prolonged periods of stress, further contributing to abdominal weight gain and making it more difficult to lose belly fat.

Managing stress is therefore an important part of maintaining overall health. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, mindfulness practices, balanced nutrition, and strong social support can help regulate cortisol levels and improve metabolic health. Although stress is not the only cause of belly fat, effectively managing it can make achieving and maintaining a healthy waistline significantly easier.

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Diabetes Driving Rise in Early Cataract Cases, Warn Eye Specialists

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Bengaluru, June 26, 2026: Cataracts are no longer just an age-related condition. Eye specialists across India are reporting a noticeable increase in cataract cases among people in their 40s and 50s, with diabetes emerging as one of the leading factors behind the trend.

As the number of people living with diabetes continues to grow, ophthalmologists say prolonged high blood sugar levels are accelerating changes in the eye’s natural lens, causing cataracts to develop much earlier than traditionally expected. According to the International Diabetes Federation, India has over 101 million adults with diabetes and another 136 million with prediabetes, making diabetes-related eye complications an increasing public health concern.

While diabetic retinopathy is widely recognised as a serious complication of diabetes, doctors say cataracts are also becoming more common among patients with long-standing or poorly controlled blood sugar. Persistent glucose fluctuations can gradually cloud the eye’s lens, resulting in blurred vision and reduced visual clarity.

Experts caution that lifestyle-related conditions such as diabetes, obesity and hypertension are contributing to the earlier onset and faster progression of cataracts. They stress that maintaining good metabolic health and undergoing regular eye examinations are essential to preventing avoidable vision loss.

“Diabetes is increasingly becoming a major reason for early cataract development,” said Dr. Archana S, Regional Head-Clinical Services, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, Bengaluru. “We are seeing more patients in their 40s and 50s with cataracts, particularly those whose blood sugar levels are not well controlled. Since lens changes occur gradually, regular eye check-ups help detect the condition early and allow timely treatment before vision is significantly affected.”

Doctors note that cataracts are having a greater impact on working-age adults, whose daily routines involve prolonged use of computers, smartphones and digital screens. Common warning signs include blurred vision, glare while driving at night, reduced contrast sensitivity, difficulty reading on digital devices and frequent changes in spectacle power.

To encourage early diagnosis, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital has announced free cataract eye evaluations until July 15, 2026. Appointments can be booked by calling 95940 29222.

Addressing common misconceptions, Dr. Archana said many people still believe cataract surgery should be delayed until the cataract “matures” or that eye drops can cure the condition. “Neither of these beliefs is medically correct. Delaying surgery can make the cataract more advanced, increasing surgical complexity and potentially affecting visual recovery,” she said.

Doctors recommend that everyone above the age of 40, especially those with diabetes or other metabolic disorders-undergo comprehensive eye examinations at regular intervals. Early detection and timely cataract surgery remain the most effective ways to preserve vision and maintain quality of life.

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Bengaluru Gets Its Next-Generation Senior Living Community

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Primus Olympia Inaugurated at Gopalan Olympia Sports City Township, Redefining Senior Living in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, June 21, 2026: Primus Olympia, a dedicated senior living community, was inaugurated today at the Gopalan Olympia Sports City Township in Kumbalgodu, off Mysuru Road in South Bengaluru. Bookings for the project have officially commenced, offering a new-age residential solution designed specifically for senior citizens seeking an active, independent, and community-driven lifestyle.

Speaking at the inauguration, Mr. Adarsh Narahari, Managing Director of Primus Olympia, emphasized that senior living is much more than purchasing a home or living away from one’s children. He described it as a concept that enables older adults to remain socially connected, physically active, mentally engaged, and purpose-driven.
“At Primus Olympia, we aim to create an environment where residents can continue to pursue their interests and passions. Through regular activities such as arts, cultural programmes, dance, sports, and wellness initiatives, we encourage an active and fulfilling lifestyle,” he said.

Highlighting the project’s wellness-centric approach, Mr. Narahari noted that the community draws inspiration from the globally recognised ‘Blue Zones’ regions known for exceptional longevity and healthy living. The development incorporates wellness practices, healthy dietary habits, and holistic healthcare approaches, including insights from Ayurveda, to support the overall well-being of residents.

He clarified that Primus Olympia is not an old-age home or retirement institution, but a vibrant residential community designed for independent senior living. The first phase comprises 120 residential units, with homes priced to remain accessible to a wide range of buyers. Encouraged by the response, the company is also exploring additional phases of development in the future.
“Our objective is to help residents lead healthier lives and reduce unnecessary hospital visits through preventive care and continuous monitoring,” he said.

The community will focus on key health indicators, including blood, physical, and social markers, enabling proactive health management for every resident.
Primus Olympia offers residents the flexibility of choosing accommodation with or without food packages. The development also features senior-friendly infrastructure, including user-friendly elevators, emergency alarm systems in every home, and partnerships with nearby hospitals to ensure quick access to medical assistance whenever required.

Describing the initiative as a modern response to changing family structures, Mr. Narahari said the project reflects a new-age, multi-generational housing model that balances independence, safety, healthcare, and community living for senior citizens.“This concept was born out of a desire to create a better living environment for my own family members. Today, it has evolved into a model that can benefit many senior citizens and their families,” he added.

With its focus on wellness, security, social engagement, and dignified ageing, Primus Olympia aims to set a new benchmark for senior living communities in Bengaluru.

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