ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು : ಜಯನಗರ 5ನೇ ಬಡಾವಣೆಯಲ್ಲಿರುವ ನಂಜನಗೂಡು ಶ್ರೀ ರಾಘವೇಂದ್ರ ಸ್ವಾಮಿಗಳ ಮಠದಲ್ಲಿ ಪರಮಪೂಜ್ಯ ಶ್ರೀ 1008 ಶ್ರೀ ಸುಬುಧೇಂದ್ರತೀರ್ಥ ಶ್ರೀಪಾದಂಗಳವರ ಆದೇಶದಂತೆ ಶ್ರೀಮಠದ ಹಿರಿಯ ವ್ಯವಸ್ಥಾಪಕರಾದ ಶ್ರೀ ಆರ್. ಕೆ. ವಾದೀಂದ್ರಾಚಾರ್ಯರ ನೇತೃತ್ವದಲ್ಲಿ ಶ್ರೀ ರಾಘವೇಂದ್ರ ಸ್ವಾಮಿಗಳವರ ವರ್ಧಂತಿ ಉತ್ಸವದ (ಜನ್ಮದಿನೋತ್ಸವ) ಅಂಗವಾಗಿ ಶ್ರೀ ಗುರುರಾಯರ ಬೃಂದಾವನಕ್ಕೆ ಫಲ ಪಂಚಾಮೃತ ಅಭಿಷೇಕ ಮತ್ತು ವಿಶೇಷವಾಗಿ “ಲಕ್ಷ ಪುಷ್ಪಾರ್ಚನೆ”ಯನ್ನು ಅಷ್ಟೋತ್ತರ ಸಹಿತ ಪಾರಾಯಣದೊಂದಿಗೆ, ಮಠದ ಧರ್ಮಾಧಿಕಾರಿಗಳಾದ ಶ್ರೀ ಕೃಷ್ಣ ಗುಂಡಾಚಾರ್ಯರು ಮತ್ತು ಅರ್ಚಕರಾದ ರಾಮಚಂದ್ರಾಚಾರ್ಯ, ಕೃಷ್ಣಾಚಾರ್ಯ ವೃಂದದಿಂದ “ಪುಷ್ಪಾರ್ಚನೆ” ನೆರವೇರಿತು ಎಂದು ಶ್ರೀಮಠದ ಪುರೋಹಿತರಾದ ಶ್ರೀ ನಂದಕಿಶೋರಾಚಾರ್ಯರು ತಿಳಿಸಿದರು. ತದನಂತರ ಡಾ|| ವೆಂಕಟನರಸಿಂಹಾಚಾರ್ಯರಿಂದ “ಶ್ರೀ ರಾಘವೇಂದ್ರ ವಿಜಯ” ಪ್ರವಚನದ ಮಂಗಳ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮದೊಂದಿಗೆ ಸ್ವರ್ಣ ಸಿಂಹಾಸನದಲ್ಲಿ ಶ್ರೀ ಪ್ರಹ್ಲಾದರಾಜರ ಮೂರ್ತಿಯನ್ನು ಇರಿಸಿ ಶ್ರೀಮಠದಿಂದ ಗುರು ಪಾದಪೂಜೆ, ಕನಕಾಭಿಷೇಕ ಮತ್ತು ಮಹಾಮಂಗಳಾರತಿಯೊಂದಿಗೆ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮವು ನೆರವೇರಿತು. ಸೇವಾ ಕರ್ತೃಗಳಿಗೆ ಮತ್ತು ಭಕ್ತರಿಗೆ ಸಂಕಲ್ಪವನ್ನು ಮಾಡಿಸಿ ಶೇಷವಸ್ತ್ರ ಶ್ರೀ ಗುರು ರಾಯರ ಪಾದುಕೆ, ಫಲ ಮಂತ್ರಾಕ್ಷತೆ ಪ್ರಸಾದ ರೂಪವಾಗಿ ಕೊಡಲಾಯಿತು. ಇದೇ ಸಂದರ್ಭದಲ್ಲಿ ರಾಯರ ಸನ್ನಿಧಿಗೆ ಆಗಮಿಸಿದ ಸುಮಾರು 20,000ಕ್ಕೂ ಮಿಗಿಲಾಗಿ ಭಕ್ತರಿಗೆ ವಿಶೇಷವಾಗಿ ಅನ್ನಸಂತರ್ಪಣೆಯ ಪ್ರಸಾದ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮವು ಸ್ವಯಂಸೇವಕರ ಮತ್ತು ಸಿಬ್ಬಂದಿಗಳ ಸಹಕಾರದಿಂದ ಅಚ್ಚುಕಟ್ಟಾದ ವ್ಯವಸ್ಥೆಯೊಂದಿಗೆ ನೆರವೇರಿತು. ಸೇವಾ ಕರ್ತೃಗಳು, ಭಕ್ತರು, ಗಣ್ಯರು, ತೀರ್ಥ ಪ್ರಸಾದ ಫಲ ಮಂತ್ರಾಕ್ಷತೆಯನ್ನು ಸ್ವೀಕರಿಸಿ ಶ್ರೀಗುರು ರಾಘವೇಂದ್ರ ಸ್ವಾಮಿಗಳ ಅನುಗ್ರಹಕ್ಕೆ ಪಾತ್ರರಾದರು.
Bengaluru, March 6: The Department of Social Work at St. Joseph’s University, in collaboration with the University of Houston-Downtown, Texas, successfully hosted the SPARKS 2025 International Conference on March 4 and 5. Themed “Advancing Sustainability Transitions for People and Planet: The Road Ahead,” the event brought together eminent academicians, social work professionals, and sustainability advocates to discuss global challenges and solutions for sustainable development.
The conference was led by Chief Patron Rev. Dr. Victor Lobo SJ, Vice Chancellor of St. Joseph’s University, with key contributions from an esteemed advisory committee of national and international scholars. Dr. Premajyothi D and Dr. Mary Princess Lavanya served as conveners, coordinating a well-structured event that fostered knowledge-sharing and dialogue.
Day 1: Inauguration and Key Discussions
The conference commenced with an inaugural ceremony where Fr. Dr. Augustine Lourdu, Dean, School of Social Work, welcomed attendees. Fr. Dr. Selvaraj Arulnathan SJ, Director of the Indian Social Institute, Bangalore, delivered an inspiring keynote on social responsibilities in sustainability transitions. Renowned activist Irom Sharmila, the Guest of Honour, spoke on the role of grassroots movements in sustainable development.
The first plenary session, moderated by Dr. Alan Godfrey, featured Dr. Shahnaz Savani, PhD, LMSW, MA, who discussed the “Role of Media in Suicide Prevention.” The second session explored diverse topics, including sustainable development in marginalized communities, workplace well-being, and mental health sustainability, with insights from experts like Dr. Nagesh M, Dr. Rajeev SP, and Dr. Shreedevi AU.
Academicians, researchers, and students from across India and four other countries presented research papers on topics ranging from social media and environmental stressors to empowering marginalized communities. The day concluded with a cultural program where students creatively engaged with sustainability themes.
Day 2: Sustainability, Governance, and Community Engagement
The second day focused on sustainability in governance and social work. Dr. Khairil Ahmad (Malaysia), Dr. Gangadhara Reddy N, and Ms. Hepzibah Sharmila discussed ethical leadership, community-driven conservation, and sustainable social work practices. Dr. Israel Inbaraj F of Adani GCC elaborated on HR’s role in fostering inclusive workplaces.
A significant highlight was the felicitation of BBMP sanitation workers for their contributions to waste management and environmental sustainability. This was followed by a debate competition, where students analyzed critical sustainability issues under the judgment of industry experts.
Valedictory Ceremony and Closing Remarks
The conference concluded with a valedictory ceremony featuring Mr. Kartar Singh, Chief Strategy Officer, as the Chief Guest. He praised the high-quality research presented and emphasized the growing need for sustainability-focused discussions. Dr. Alan Godfrey provided a conference summary, and Dr. Mary Princess Lavanya delivered the vote of thanks, recognizing the efforts of speakers, organizers, and participants.
With engaging discussions, expert insights, and meaningful community participation, the SPARKS 2025 International Conference successfully highlighted the intersection of social work and sustainability, paving the way for continued dialogue and action in this crucial field.
~ಮಾರ್ಚ್ 11 ರ ಈ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮವು, ಸಾಕ್ಷ್ಯಚಿತ್ರ ಪ್ರದರ್ಶನ ಮತ್ತು ಅವರ ಕೊಡುಗೆಗಳನ್ನು ಗುರುತಿಸುತ್ತದೆ
ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು, ಮಾರ್ಚ್ 6, 2025 – ಬೆಂಗಳೂರಿನ ಅನೌಪಚಾರಿಕ ತ್ಯಾಜ್ಯ ಆಯುವವರ ಜೊತೆಗಿನ ಏಕತೆಯ ಪ್ರಬಲ ಪ್ರದರ್ಶನದಲ್ಲಿ, ನಮ್ಮ ನಗರದ ಎಲೆಮರೆ ಕಾಯಿಗಳಾದ ಪರಿಸರ ಸಂರಕ್ಷಣಾ ಚಾಂಪಿಯನ್ಗಳು, ಸಂಭವ್ ಫೌಂಡೇಶನ್, ಕ್ರೈಸ್ಟ್ ಯೂನಿವರ್ಸಿಟಿ ಬನ್ನೇರುಘಟ್ಟ ರಸ್ತೆಯ ಲಿಬರಲ್ ಆರ್ಟ್ ವಿಭಾಗದ ಸಹಯೋಗದೊಂದಿಗೆ, ಮಾರ್ಚ್ 11, 2025 ರಂದು ಮನಮೋಹಕವಾದ ಥಿಯೇಟರ್ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣ-ನವರಸ ಮೂಲಕ ತಮ್ಮ ಕಥೆಗಳನ್ನು ಮುಖ್ಯವಾಹಿನಿಗೆ ತರುತ್ತಿದೆ.
ವಿಶ್ವಾದ್ಯಂತ ಇರುವ ತ್ಯಾಜ್ಯ ಆಯುವವರ ಕೊಡುಗೆಗಳನ್ನು ಗುರುತಿಸಲು ಮೀಸಲಾದ ದಿನವಾದ-ಅಂತರಾಷ್ಟ್ರೀಯ ತ್ಯಾಜ್ಯ ಆಯುವವರ ದಿನದೊಂದಿಗೆ (ಮಾರ್ಚ್ 1) ಜೋಡಣೆಗೊಂಡಿದ್ದು ಈ ಉಪಕ್ರಮವು ನಿರೀಕ್ಷೆಯನ್ನೂ ಮೀರಿದ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ಷಮತೆಯಾಗಿದೆ; ಇದು ಸಬಲೀಕರಣ, ಸಮರ್ಥನೆ ಮತ್ತು ಆರ್ಥಿಕ ಪರಿವರ್ತನೆಗೆ ಒದಗಿಸಲಾದ ವೇದಿಕೆಯಾಗಿದೆ.
ಇದೇ ಪ್ರಪ್ರಥಮ ಬಾರಿಗೆ, ತ್ಯಾಜ್ಯ ಆಯುವ ಸಮುದಾಯದ ಸದಸ್ಯರು ಕೇವಲ ಮಾತಿನ ವಿಷಯಗಳಾಗಿ ಉಳಿದಿಲ್ಲ, ಬದಲಾಗಿ ಇದರ ಸಕ್ರಿಯ ರಚನೆಕಾರರಾಗಿದ್ದಾರೆ, ಪ್ರದರ್ಶನದ ವೇಷಭೂಷಣಗಳನ್ನು ವಿನ್ಯಾಸಗೊಳಿಸಿದ್ದಾರೆ ಮತ್ತು ತಯಾರಿಸಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಸಂಭವ್ ಫೌಂಡೇಶನ್ನಿಂದ ತರಬೇತಿ ಪಡೆದ, ಸಾಮೂಹಿಕ ಶಕ್ತಿ ಉಪಕ್ರಮದ ಭಾಗವಾಗಿ, ಈ ಕುಶಲಕರ್ಮಿಗಳು ವೇಷಭೂಷಣ ವಿನ್ಯಾಸ ಮತ್ತು ತಯಾರಿಕೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಕೌಶಲ್ಯಗಳನ್ನು ಹೊಂದಿದ್ದಾರೆ, ತ್ಯಾಜ್ಯ ನಿರ್ವಹಣೆ ಪರಿಸರ ವ್ಯವಸ್ಥೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ತಮ್ಮ ನಿರ್ಣಾಯಕ ಪಾತ್ರಕ್ಕೆ ಯಾವುದೇ ಲೋಪವಾಗದೆ ಪರ್ಯಾಯ ಜೀವನೋಪಾಯಕ್ಕೆ ಇರುವ ಅವಕಾಶಗಳ ಬಾಗಿಲನ್ನು ತೆರೆಯುತ್ತಿದ್ದಾರೆ.
ನವರಸ, ಲಿಬರಲ್ ಆರ್ಟ್ಸ್ ವಿಭಾಗದ ವಾರ್ಷಿಕ ವಿದ್ಯಾರ್ಥಿ-ಚಾಲಿತ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣವು, ಮನದ ಒಂಬತ್ತು ಭಾವನೆಗಳನ್ನು ಅನ್ವೇಷಿಸಲು ಸಂಗೀತ, ನೃತ್ಯ ಮತ್ತು ರಂಗಭೂಮಿಯನ್ನು ಸಂಯೋಜಿಸುತ್ತಿದೆ, ಕಲಾತ್ಮಕ ಬೆಳವಣಿಗೆ, ನಾಯಕತ್ವ ಮತ್ತು ವೈವಿಧ್ಯಮಯ ಸಾಂಸ್ಕೃತಿಕ ಆಚರಣೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ತಲ್ಲೀನಗೊಳಿಸುವಂತಹ ಕಥೆಯ ನಿರೂಪಣೆಯನ್ನು ಪ್ರದರ್ಶಿಸುತ್ತದೆ.
ಇದು ಈ ಕುಶಲಕರ್ಮಿಗಳನ್ನು ಗೌರವಿಸಲು ಮೀಸಲಾಗಿರುವ ವಿಶೇಷ 15 ನಿಮಿಷಗಳ ಭಾಗವನ್ನು ಹೊಂದಿದೆ. ಒಂದು ಸಣ್ಣ ಸಾಕ್ಷ್ಯಚಿತ್ರವು ಅವರ ಕಥೆಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ಅಪರೂಪದ, ಸಮಾಜಕ್ಕೆ ತಿಳಿಯದ ನೋಟವನ್ನು ನೀಡುತ್ತದೆ-ತಮ್ಮ ಗಳಿಕೆಯನ್ನು ಹೆಚ್ಚಿಸಲು ಪರ್ಯಾಯ ಜೀವನೋಪಾಯವನ್ನು ಹುಡುಕುತ್ತಿರುವ ತ್ಯಾಜ್ಯ ಆಯುವವರ ಹೋರಾಟಗಳು, ಸ್ಥಿತಿಸ್ಥಾಪಕತ್ವ ಮತ್ತು ಗೆಲುವುಗಳನ್ನು ಇದು ಪ್ರಸ್ತುತಪಡಿಸುತ್ತದೆ.
“ಈ ಉಪಕ್ರಮವು ರಂಗಭೂಮಿಗಿಂತ ಹೆಚ್ಚಿನದಾಗಿದ್ದು; ಇದು ಒಂದು ಅಭಿವ್ಯಕ್ತಿಯಾಗಿದೆ. ಇದು ದೃಷ್ಟಿಕೋನಗಳನ್ನು ಬದಲಾಯಿಸುವ ಬಗ್ಗೆ, ಸಮಾಜವು ಕಡೆಗಣಿಸುತ್ತಿರುವ ಅವರ ಘನತೆಯನ್ನು ತಿಳಿಯುವುದರ ಕುರಿತಾಗಿದೆ” ಎಂದು ಸಂಭವ್ ಫೌಂಡೇಶನ್ನ ಚೀಫ್ ಇಂಪ್ಯಾಕ್ಟ್ ಆಫೀಸರ್ ಡಾ. ಗಾಯತ್ರಿ ವಾಸುದೇವನ್ ಹೇಳಿದರು. “ನಾವು ಈಗ 4 ವರ್ಷಗಳಿಂದ ನವರಸವನ್ನು ಮಾಡುತ್ತಿದ್ದೇವೆ. ಈ ವರ್ಷ, ಸ್ಥಿತಿಸ್ಥಾಪಕತ್ವದ ಕಥೆಗಳತ್ತ ಗಮನ ಸೆಳೆಯಲು ನಾವು ವೇದಿಕೆಯನ್ನು ಬಳಸಲು ಬಯಸುತ್ತೇವೆ. ಈ ಅನುಭವಕ್ಕೆ ನಿಮ್ಮೆಲ್ಲರನ್ನು ನಾವು ಆಹ್ವಾನಿಸುತ್ತೇವೆ” ಎಂದು ಲಿಬರಲ್ ಆರ್ಟ್ಸ್ನ ಎಚ್ಒಡಿ ಆಗಿರುವ ಡಾ. ಪ್ರೇರಣಾ ಶ್ರೀಮಾಲ್ ಹೇಳಿದರು.
ಸಂಭವ್ ಫೌಂಡೇಶನ್ ಮತ್ತು ಕ್ರೈಸ್ಟ್ ಯೂನಿವರ್ಸಿಟಿ ನಡುವಿನ ಈ ಸಹಯೋಗವು ಕಲೆಗಳ ಮೂಲಕ ಸೇರ್ಪಡೆ, ಕೌಶಲ್ಯ-ನಿರ್ಮಾಣ ಮತ್ತು ಸಾಮಾಜಿಕ ನ್ಯಾಯದ ಕುರಿತು ಜನರ ನಡುವಿನ ಸಂಭಾಷಣೆಯನ್ನು ಹೆಚ್ಚಿಸುವ ಗುರಿಯನ್ನು ಹೊಂದಿದೆ.
ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮದ ವಿವರಗಳು: ದಿನಾಂಕ: ಮಾರ್ಚ್ 11, 2025 ಸಮಯ: ಸಂಜೆ 4:30 ರಿಂದ ಸ್ಥಳ: ಮುಖ್ಯ ಆಡಿಟೋರಿಯಮ್, ಕ್ರೈಸ್ಟ್ ಯೂನಿವರ್ಸಿಟಿ, ಬನ್ನೇರುಘಟ್ಟ ರಸ್ತೆ ಕ್ಯಾಂಪಸ್
Consultations includes comprehensive eye examinations, including intraocular pressure checks, and optic nerve evaluations. A promising treatment method is Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS), which reduces intraocular pressure (IOP), a key risk factor.
Bengaluru, March 06, 2025: Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital in Chennai has announced a campaign offering free Glaucoma consultations for residents of the city concerned about or diagnosed with glaucoma from March 5th to March 31st, in observance of World Glaucoma Week to raise awareness about early detection and treatment of glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness worldwide.
World Glaucoma Week is observed from March 10-16 annually. The theme for 2025 centers on “See the Future Clearly,” emphasising the importance of early detection, regular eye care, and community education to prevent vision loss. Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital’s free consultation initiative will provide comprehensive eye examinations, including intraocular pressure checks, optic nerve evaluations, and visual field tests. Patients diagnosed with glaucoma will be counselled on advanced treatment options, including medications, laser therapy, and surgical interventions. Those interested in availing the free consultations can register by contacting 9594360222.
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions often caused by high intraocular pressure (IOP) that damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. Often, it progresses without noticeable symptoms, hence it is called the “silent thief of sight”. These conditions affect millions of people worldwide, with an estimated 80 million individuals suffering from the condition. In India, the prevalence of glaucoma is estimated to be around 12 million, with nearly 10% of cases resulting in vision loss due to late diagnosis.
The risk factors that make individuals more prone to developing glaucoma include a family history of the disease, high intraocular pressure, age over 40, diabetes, and a history of eye trauma. Regular comprehensive eye examinations are essential for early detection. Treatment options include: Eye drops to lower IOP, laser therapy, surgery, including minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS).
In a statement, Dr. Ravi Dorairaj, Regional Head – Clinical Services, Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, said that glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated in time. Early intervention can make all the difference in managing this condition and preserving vision for a lifetime. “We are launching this free consultation initiative to ensure that individuals at risk of glaucoma have access to early diagnosis and treatment options. We urge those over 40, especially those with risk factors, to make use of the free consultation and get their eyes checked for intraocular pressure and the health of the optic nerve.”
He added that treatment options for glaucoma have advanced significantly in recent years. A newer and promising treatment method is MIGS, which offers a less invasive option with quicker recovery times compared to traditional glaucoma surgery. This procedure involves small incisions and the use of microscopic devices to reduce intraocular pressure effectively. This technique has gained popularity due to its ability to provide significant relief with fewer risks and complications.
*This association marks a significant milestone in the Bank’s brand evolution journey *A balanced approach by the Bank to cut across geographies, genders and generations.
Mumbai, March 5, 2025 – Federal Bank, one of India’s leading private sector banks with an impressive legacy over the years, today announced the appointment of acclaimed actress Vidya Balan as its first-ever brand ambassador. The announcement was made during a special ceremony in Mumbai, where Ms. Balan was presented with a commemorative memento by Mr. K.V.S. Manian, Managing Director & CEO of Federal Bank.
This association is an important milestone in the brand’s journey as it continues to enhance its market position. The Bank’s senior team in a recent analyst meet had laid out clear directional path for the Bank and brand transformation was one of the significant themes. M V S Murthy, Chief Marketing Officer of the Bank said Ms. Balan was a very strategic choice to capture the attention across geographies, genders and generations. He said, “We are super-stoked to have Ms. Vidya Balan champion Federal Bank. She is versatile, appeals across demographics and gender, has a pan-India fan following, and is multi-faceted. An actor’s actor, she becomes the character on camera while continuing to charm us in her interpersonal interactions off-screen. Her preparation, desire to understand nuances, and consideration of various scenarios all contribute to her ability to bring out the essence of every role she plays. We have experienced this as we sought to bring her on board. At Federal Bank, too, empathy is our segue to understanding and servicing our customers. It’s a universal trait that transcends geographies, generations, and customer demographics. Our NPS scores and Peer Comparison in the Nielsen studies, clearly indicate the stripes we have earned by being a Human at The Core, Digital at The ForeTM Franchise. Much like Vidya, we too make light of our chores and celebrate the wins created through the collective effort of our teams. I am sure Vidya will power prosperity for everyone associated with Federal Bank. Character, Culture and Customers are how we celebrate ourselves and the Brand.”
Ms. Balan, who has earned critical acclaim and a devoted following through her versatile performances in films like ‘Kahaani’, ‘Parineeta’, and ‘Shakuntala Devi’, etc. expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership. “Being an ambassador for varied Brands in the country, I believe we are telling the India Story to the World. And Federal Bank, makes the cut, in terms of powering our economy from down South to up North. They have a very broad brush when it comes to having a generationally loyal franchise, being the leading employer for Women in the country, creating a work culture where people stay and contribute to all round growth. I am deeply appreciative of their efforts in supporting communities and causes, while continuing to build a very robust business. I genuinely sense the vibe when Federal Bankers tell me that they are Human at the Core, Digital to the Fore TM. Looking forward to a very exciting ‘Rishta’ with Federal Bank.”
The multi-year association of Federal Bank will span across various marketing initiatives, including television commercials and digital campaigns. As Federal Bank gears itself for the breakthrough journey, the first brand ambassador will help tell the brand’s Kahani to the world and deepen the Rishta with its stakeholders. Just as Vidya has redefined female leadership in Indian cinema through her powerful performances and meaningful choices, Federal Bank, at this juncture is pursuing breakthroughs across product propositions, service lines and geographies.
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