Month: April 2024

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Education Lite Blogs

Mastering Finance

In these roles, graduates manage investment portfolios and implement strategic asset allocations, relying on a deep understanding of financial markets and macroeconomic trends…writes Nidheesh Saxena

Pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in finance opens up a plethora of exciting career opportunities, providing individuals with a versatile skill set and in-depth knowledge of financial principles. This educational path prepares graduates for various roles across industries, complementing the understanding and application of real-time financial data, insights, and trends akin to those found in resources like the Bloomberg Terminal.

Financial Analysis and Advisory Roles: As financial analysts, MBA finance graduates assess company performances, analyze market trends, and provide strategic recommendations. They are pivotal in utilizing tools similar to the Bloomberg Terminal to stay ahead of market movements, ensuring informed decision-making in investment banking, consulting firms, or corporate finance departments.

Investment Banking: In this high-stakes field, professionals facilitate corporate mergers, and acquisitions, manage IPOs, and advise on capital raising and restructuring. Their work benefits from an understanding of the Bloomberg Terminal’s real-time market data and economic indicators, enabling them to thrive in dynamic, pressure-driven environments.

Corporate Finance: Specializing in finance, MBA graduates often manage financial planning, treasury operations, and risk management in multinational corporations. They leverage insights on global economic indicators and industry news, similar to those provided by the Bloomberg Terminal, to optimize capital allocation and identify growth opportunities.

Asset Management and Portfolio Management: In these roles, graduates manage investment portfolios and implement strategic asset allocations, relying on a deep understanding of financial markets and macroeconomic trends. Tools like the Bloomberg Terminal offer critical insights into market movements and industry news, aiding in decision-making to achieve targeted returns while minimizing risk.

Risk Management: This critical function involves assessing and mitigating financial, operational, and market risks. The comprehensive data and analysis provided by systems akin to the Bloomberg Terminal are essential for risk managers to safeguard organizations against adverse events and ensure regulatory compliance.

Financial Consulting: MBA finance graduates in consulting use their skills to help organizations tackle financial challenges and optimize efficiency. The global perspective offered by the Bloomberg Terminal-like resources enriches their ability to provide strategic advice, enhancing shareholder value.

Entrepreneurship and Venture Capital: Leveraging their MBA skills, some graduates pursue entrepreneurial ventures or venture capital, navigating business development complexities and identifying investment opportunities. Insights from comprehensive financial databases are invaluable for understanding market trends and economic indicators that affect startup viability and growth.

Financial Technology (Fintech): The fintech sector offers exciting prospects for those at the intersection of finance and technology. Innovations in payments, lending, and wealth management benefit from an understanding of the market dynamics and economic indicators, similar to those accessed through the Bloomberg Terminal.

The integration of MBA finance education with insights similar to those offered by the Bloomberg Terminal equips graduates with the knowledge to navigate and excel in a competitive business environment. Understanding market trends, economic indicators, and global events enables professionals to make informed decisions across various sectors, including finance, consulting, entrepreneurship, and technology.

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Arts & Culture Lite Blogs

Gurvinder Singh Set to Explore Bhagat Singh’s Revolutionary Tale in Web Series

The series will dwell upon how Bhagat Singh and his comrades ‘used’ the trial to amplify their ideas of independence…writes Sukant Deepak

Best known for his Punjabi films ‘Anhe Ghore Da Daan’ and ‘Chauthi Koot’ which premiered at the Venice and Cannes Film Festivals respectively, filmmaker Gurvinder Singh is all set to make a web series on revolutionary Bhagat Singh.

Stressing that he is still relevant and will continue to remain so, Singh tells IANS, “The revolutionary’s character has always fascinated me owing to the multiple layers he boasted of. Not many people have explored him completely. Yes, he was a revolutionary but also had a great sense of humour.”

The series will dwell upon how Bhagat Singh and his comrades ‘used’ the trial to amplify their ideas of independence.

While many other films have been made on Bhagat Singh, including ‘The Legend of Bhagat Singh’, the filmmaker points out that in most films, the narrative was very linear.

“Not one spelt that he was an atheist,” says this Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) pass-out.

Adding that the movie will also put a spotlight on other women revolutionaries, the project will be produced by former NFDC MD Nina Lath, and the project is now in the CibeVesture International Film Festival Market for investors.

Talk to him about the research that has undergone in the project, and Singh stresses, “We have paid immense attention to that. We have access to some of the finest researchers who have done a very detailed job, and have been working on Bhagat Singh for years now.”

The director asserts that he intentionally wants to adopt the web series format and not make a movie on the subject.

“I want the canvas to be extremely wide so that different facets of the revolutionary can be captured. One cannot do justice to such a subject in a feature film.”

Optimistic that the series is bound to attract OTT channels, “A major series on Mahatma Gandhi has just been made. I am sure if they are interested in Gandhi, Bhagat Singh will hold a special fascination,” says the filmmaker, who travelled extensively through Punjab between 2002 and 2006, living and travelling with folk itinerants, documenting folk ballads and oral narratives that led to his first documentary ‘Pala’.

Singh, whose latest feature film ‘Adh Chanani Raat’ is being screened at the debut edition of the CineVesture International Film Festival (CIFF) being held in Chandigarh, says, “This film was released during the pandemic. So it was mostly shown online by different international festivals, and in some ways got ‘lost’. There is an interest in it now. But it is up to the producers to push it.”

Someone who documented the farmer’s protest and made the documentary ‘Trolley Times’ that was screened during the latest edition of MAMI, adds, “There are several projects which I would like to attempt, but financing is a major problem.”

One wonders if an internationally acclaimed independent filmmaker still faces a problem getting funds, and he smiles, “I have resigned to the fact that the situation will always be like this, so no frustration now.”

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Films Lite Blogs

Crafting Cinematic Magic through Improvisation

Even though all her films, be it ‘Village Rockstars’ or ‘Bulbul Can Sing’, which were both premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and were screened at more than 120 film festivals, winning over 70 awards, Das does not feel any pressure as she is working on her next…writes Sukant Deepak

In almost all her movies, a certain calm envelops everything. Things move at their own peculiar pace, and tales unfold with an otherworldly rhythm. Even as she is completing post-production on the Assamese film ‘Village Rockstars: Echoing Tales’, a sequel to her movie ‘Village Rockstars (2017) that was selected as India’s official entry to the 91st Academy Awards, and won the Best Feature Film award at the 65th National Film Awards, filmmaker Rima Das stresses that stories just come to her, and then characters start making their presence felt all around her.

“And that is when I start writing and shooting. I do not work with a bound script, things constantly change while shooting. Improvisation is the key. I just take my camera and start rolling. I write something, go and shoot… Mid-way I start editing also. Everything is back and forth. But I like that,” she told.

Even though all her films, be it ‘Village Rockstars’ or ‘Bulbul Can Sing’, which were both premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and were screened at more than 120 film festivals, winning over 70 awards, Das does not feel any pressure as she is working on her next.

“It is always about the art of filmmaking and the drive to grow. The effort is to keep the integrity and purity of the movie. Of course, it is always heartening when people and critics praise my films. But no, I never feel any pressure,” smiles the director, who is at the ongoing CineVesture International Film Festival (CIFF) being held in Chandigarh.

She however adds that with time, she has realised the importance of marketing her movies well.

“With ‘Village Rockstars’ and ‘Bulbul Can Sing’, the buzz was very organic. However, post-pandemic, things have changed for filmmakers like us. While the latest one is going to be the fifth film from my production house, I have understood that a separate budget needs to be kept for marketing the movie well.”

Das, who made a short English film as part of an anthology in Australia last year, besides documentaries in Hindi on Udaipur and teenage cricket in Mumbai, not to mention that she is writing a feature film in Hindi, is a one-woman crew — writing, directing, producing, editing, and shooting her films, besides handling art direction and costume designing. Though not formally trained in any aspect of filmmaking, she does miss going to film school now.

“I would not mind doing a short course in say cinematography. Technical knowledge about the camera and lighting, etc would be beneficial.”

For someone who likes to work with non-actors as they are seldom “too much into themselves”, said the filmmaker, adding that “They trust me and surrender. However, there is a limit to which you can push non-actors, unlike professional ones who also can get the best out of you. Yes, with professional actors, I need to ‘break’ them, ensuring that they ‘unlearn’.”

Though Das ‘Village Rockstars’ was made on a budget of Rs 20 lakh, she feels times have changed and it is no longer possible to work on that kind of a tight budget.

“Everything has become expensive. Now if I want to use sync sound and keep a considerable budget for marketing, how can I wrap everything in just a few lakhs?” she concludes.

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Bhutan Lite Blogs

A Spiritual Journey through 108 Sacred Sites of Bhutan

The Druk Neykor is a pilgrimage travel programme, and the sites are selected based on their sacredness, historical significance, easy accessibility and popularity among others…reports Asian Lite News

Bhutan’s Department of Tourism announces the launch of the Druk Neykor programme, a new tourism experience covering 108 sites and monuments in Bhutan showcasing the history, culture and spirituality of the country.

Introduced to welcome and enlighten travellers of varying ages who seek to know more about Bhutan’s unique culture and tradition. The Druk Neykor programme first starts with tours to 16 sites within Thimphu, including the Wangditse Lhakhang, Tshelung Ney, and Talangkha Drugyel Goenpa, among others. With accommodation options easily available near the sacred sites, all the locations are accessible either by road or via a hike.  

“The spiritual heritage of Bhutan is deeply intertwined with its natural beauty, and Druk Neykor provides a unique opportunity to explore both in harmony. We invite travellers from all across the world seeking a truly spiritual and immersive travel experience to participate in the Druk Neykor programme and contribute to promoting the pilgrimage sites and the unique culture of Bhutan,” said Dorji Dhradhul, the Director General of the Department of Tourism, Bhutan.

The Druk Neykor is a pilgrimage travel programme, and the sites are selected based on their sacredness, historical significance, easy accessibility and popularity among others.

Visitors can participate in Druk Neykor through a Bhutanese Tour Operator, and one can also visit the sites without participating in the Druk Neykor programme. However, the truly immersive experience is Druk Neykor’s unique passport system, wherein travellers collect stamps at each spiritual site visited. From the iconic Tiger’s Nest monastery perched on a cliffside to the serene Druk Wangyel Chorten, Dochula, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas, every stamp tells a story of spiritual awakening and cultural immersion. Additionally, the stamp book also includes QR codes, allowing access to detailed information about each site upon scanning.

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Bhutan Lite Blogs Sports

Ultimate Destination for Cricket Enthusiasts

Bhutan Cricket also collaborates with local tour operators to facilitate cricket matches in various picturesque locations across the Kingdom…reports Asian Lite News

Bhutan is now establishing itself as a premier destination for enthusiasts seeking a unique cricket experience. Bhutan provides a cricket experience like no other, with some of the world’s highest cricket grounds under their belt, and where the love for the sport intertwines with the tranquillity of its surroundings. The country’s cricket grounds boast stunning views that create an unforgettable atmosphere for both players and spectators.

Cricket is now considered one of the fastest-growing sports in Bhutan. Numerous efforts in terms of training, infrastructure & tournaments have spread throughout the country, penetrating even remote areas such as Merak and Sakteng in the far east of Bhutan. Now the Bhutan Cricket Association conducts many school tournaments and grassroots programmes for schools and coaching across the country. 

The emergence of cricket in Bhutan dates back to 1999 when televisions were first introduced in Bhutan, giving people the opportunity to watch the 1999 Cricket World Cup. Gradually, Bhutanese started to play in the stadiums and even played in various international tournaments. 

Bhutan Cricket has come a long way since its admission to the ICC in 2001. Today, there are seven active districts for cricket. The new Gelephu International Cricket Ground, which will soon be inaugurated, will become the first cricket ground in Bhutan that will meet international standards. So far, the Bhutan Cricket Association has trained 60,000 people in Bhutan from youth to senior age, across 18 dzongkhags (districts), including 1070 monks and 60 nuns.  

Bhutan Cricket also collaborates with local tour operators to facilitate cricket matches in various picturesque locations across the Kingdom. One of Bhutan’s primary venues, the Gelephu ground, situated in the southern part of Bhutan bordering India, offers a unique experience for clubs or teams from India seeking to play in Bhutan. Despite the hot weather, Gelephu ground provides a convenient and proper-sized playing field, making it an ideal choice. Additionally, cricket matches are offered in Thimphu and Punakha, each offering its charm and appeal. While the ground sizes may vary, the experience gained in these locations is bound to be mesmerizing. Particularly notable is the Punakha Ground, located near the majestic Dzong, enhancing its appeal and accessibility for cricket enthusiasts. Guests can have unforgettable cricket experiences amidst Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes.

“On behalf of the Bhutan Cricket Family, I extend a warm invitation to all cricket enthusiasts worldwide to join us in experiencing the joy of cricket amidst the breathtaking backdrop of Bhutan’s natural beauty. Every stroke of the bat and every delivery you bowl will transform into a unique and unforgettable cricketing experience in the majestic Himalayan landscape. We wholeheartedly welcome you to be a part of the spirit of the game and immerse yourself in the serenity of Bhutan while relishing the thrill of cricket. Cricket-Happiness is a Game,” said Damber Gurung, the Chief Executive Officer of the Bhutan Cricket Council Board.

Gelephu International Cricket Ground is the first cricket ground in Bhutan that will meet international standards. Located at a comfortable five-minute drive away from the main town of Gelephu, the facility covers 6 acres of land and has two entrances. The playing field spanning 3.5 acres is equipped with 6 turf pitches for matches, net facilities (2 artificial pitches and 4 turf), washrooms (male/female) and natural seating for up to 2000 spectators. 

Jigmethang Cricket Ground in Thimphu is located in the north of Thimphu city. A leisurely walk of around five minutes, alongside the Raidak River will take you to this hidden gem. Sporting a synthetic wicket, the ground is 126.82 meters in length, 85.8 meters in breath and is any amateur cricketer’s paradise! Lush green pine trees, a breathtaking view of the mountains, the constant sound of flowing water, and the chirping birds will make for a unique setting for your cricketing experience. Furthermore, feel draped in Bhutan’s culture, sitting in a colourful Bhutanese tent as the pavilion! 

“Bhutan is not just a cricket destination; it’s an experience that combines the love for the game with the unmatched beauty of our country. We welcome cricket enthusiasts from around the world to enjoy the unique cricketing experience in Bhutan,” concluded Dorji Dhradhul, the Director General of the Department of Tourism.

To cater to the growing interest in cricket tourism, travel agencies in Bhutan are now offering specialized packages for cricket enthusiasts. These packages include the ground fee, match officials, equipment, lunch, refreshments, cricket opponent, first aid and even trophies.

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Health Lite Blogs

Bridging Beauty with Mental Health

Gently massage your face while applying products to calm and reduce stress hormones. Facial massage can also improve circulation and lymphatic drainage, both beneficial for skin health and mental health…writes Malavika Jain

For generations, the beauty industry has focused on achieving flawless skin, often with a product-centric approach. But what if our skin held the key to not just outward beauty, but also internal well-being? Enter the exciting realm of emotional skincare, a movement that bridges the gap between beauty and mental health, recognizing the profound connection between the two.

This shift is supported by growing scientific evidence. Psychodermatology, a branch of dermatology that explores the mind-skin connection, reveals how stress, anxiety, and depression can manifest in skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Conversely, healthy skin-care practices can positively impact our mood and emotional well-being.

So, how can we embrace emotional skincare?

Here are some key aspects:

Move beyond simply applying products. Approach your skincare routine as a mindful self-care ritual. Focus on your breath, be present in the moment, and connect with your senses. This creates a space for relaxation and reduces stress, which benefits your skin.

Instead of chasing trends or unrealistic beauty standards, prioritise healthy functioning skin. Consult a dermatologist to understand your skin type and specific needs, and choose products accordingly. Remember, healthy skin doesn’t have to be “flawless.”

Gently massage your face while applying products to calm and reduce stress hormones. Facial massage can also improve circulation and lymphatic drainage, both beneficial for skin health and mental health.

While products can play a significant role, emotional skincare is about holistic well-being. Prioritise quality sleep, manage stress through activities like yoga or meditation and nourish your body with healthy foods. Remember, true beauty radiates from within.

Society often bombards us with unrealistic beauty ideals. Instead, cultivate self-compassion and acceptance. Celebrate your unique skin, scars, and all. This shift in perspective can significantly improve your mental health and your relationship with your skin.

Recent developments in emotional skincare:

The landscape of wellness and self-care is constantly evolving, and skincare brands are at the forefront of this movement, integrating holistic practices, like NeuroGlow (Mintel’s 2024 trend), into their products and messaging. This mind-body connection, explored through the lens of Psychodermatology, is revolutionising how we approach skin health.

One key development lies in the rise of personalised skincare. By addressing individual skin concerns and emotional needs, brands empower individuals to create a connection with their routines.

Technology further empowers informed self-care through teledermatology, providing convenient online access to dermatological expertise. This removes barriers and fosters a deeper understanding of individual skin needs.

Mood science plays a crucial role in this conversation, as research increasingly reveals how emotions can impact our skin’s health. Stress, for instance, can manifest as breakouts or exacerbate existing conditions. To address this, brands are incorporating aromatherapy into their offerings. Essential oils, with their mood-boosting and calming properties, offer a natural approach to promoting emotional well-being and radiant skin.

Psychodermatology in Action:

Embracing emotional skincare is not just about achieving clearer skin, but about fostering healthier, happier skin and cultivating a radiant you – Inside and out. However, true transformation goes beyond the surface. The burgeoning field of Psychodermatology unveils the critical link between our emotions and skin health.

This groundbreaking science delves into the skin-mind connection, the missing link in truly holistic beauty regimens. By understanding how stress, anxiety, and even happiness influence our skin, we can create personalized solutions that address the root cause of concerns, not just the symptoms.

Therefore, embracing emotional skincare and delving deeper into the skin-mind connection isn’t just a trend; it’s the future of holistic beauty. It’s about empowering individuals to achieve radiant skin and a sense of well-being that truly shines from within. By prioritising mindful practices, celebrating your unique beauty, and seeking professional help when needed, you can create a holistic self-care approach that benefits your skin and mental health.

Remember, true beauty radiates from a place of self-love and acceptance, and emotional skincare is a powerful tool to help you get there.

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Lite Blogs

Sing, Sip, and Snap: A Night of Karaoke and Creative Fun

Get creative with a curated cocktail menu where guests can mix and mingle while concocting their signature drinks. Set up a variety of spirits, mixers, and garnishes for endless cocktail possibilities…reports Asian Lite News

An incredible playlist is certainly a necessity to keep the party going. Turn up the volume and let loose with a karaoke party that’s sure to be a hit with guests of all ages. Create a playlist of your favourite songs, grab the microphone, and sing and dance the night away.

Mix & Mingle over a curated “Cocktail Bar Menu”

Get creative with a curated cocktail menu where guests can mix and mingle while concocting their signature drinks. Set up a variety of spirits, mixers, and garnishes for endless cocktail possibilities. You can throw together a list of classic-hued cocktails like the traditional Mojito, Daiquiri, Martini, and Pina Colada – all based on a versatile and smooth clear spirit like the BACARDÍ Carta Blanca. For the less mixology inclined who prefer east-to-drink options – the BACARDÍ BREEZER range of rainbow flavours is the perfect answer to let your guests raise a toast, in your style.

Creative Workshops

Indulge in creative workshops where guests can unleash their creativity and make handmade crafts or home decor. Provide supplies and instructions for projects like candle-making, painting, or pottery paired with sips of their choice.

Gourmet Potluck Feast

Host a gourmet potluck feast where each guest brings a dish to share. Encourage creativity and diversity with a variety of appetizers, main courses, sides, and desserts for a culinary adventure.

Capture Your Party Snaps Using Snapchat’s AR Lens

Elevate your party vibes and craft unforgettable, interactive memories using Snapchat’s AR experiences. Share the fun and express yourself through a variety of party lenses available in Snapchat’s extensive library. Whether you’re feeling festive or simply want to let loose creatively, there’s a lens for every mood. Choose from options like Let’s Party Time, Pizza Party, Afterparty, Party with Trippie, Party Ready, Neon Devil Horns, and many more. Step up your party experience and capture the excitement with Snapchat’s AR lenses!

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