Sidhraj Salgaonkar - This biker from Goa rode alone across India’s 29 states, despite an accident

Sidhraj Salgaonkar

When Sidhraj Salgaonkar set out on his dream trip across the 29 states of India in the summer of 2015, he wasn’t prepared for what life would throw at him. Four months into the trip, he met with an accident, which not only jeopardised his journey, but also left him with injuries that he took two-and- a-half years to recover from. Fast forward to 2018, he restarted the trip from where he had left off — on the same day when he met with the accident three years ago. Using that same spot as a starting point, he completed the trip — crossing several state borders, collecting experiences and making memories to last a lifetime.

THE ACCIDENT


In 2015, he started riding towards the east coast and stopped at Gandikota in Andhra Pradesh, which is known as the Grand Canyon of India. “I started in March 2015, with a plan to go to all 29 states. I drove to Hampi, Karnataka, and headed towards the east coast and started riding from Gandikota. It’s non-touristy and beautiful. Then I crossed Vishakhapatnam, Vijaywada, Bhubaneswar and Kolkata before I entered the North East. After completing the seven sisters, my plan was to go to North India,” he shares.

Four months into the trip, on his journey from Varanasi to Agra, in mid-July, he met with an accident in Chambal Ghati, Madhya Pradesh. “I was unconscious for a while. When I regained consciousness, I was wondering if I was sleeping on the road. I made an effort to get up, but I couldn’t. My right side was numb. I could see cars passing by, but nobody stopped. I was later told that many suspicious incidents, including murders take place there, hence people think twice before stopping to help,” he says.

THE ROAD TO RECOVERY

Sidhraj spent months in the hospital before returning home. “I couldn’t walk as I had three major fractures and a nerve injury. I hardly had any bruises, because I was wearing my gear. But there were several internal injuries because of which I couldn’t complete the ride. I had to undergo a surgery after six months. The entire recovery process took over two years,” he says.

This year, on July 12, he went to the exact accident spot and started again, travelling through Punjab, Zanskar Valley, Ladakh, Spiti Valley and several places in Himachal and Jammu and Kashmir before passing through Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Gujarat, a bit of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. From there, he drove to Pondicherry via Hyderabad and Chennai. Next on his itinerary was Kanyakumari, and finally back home to to Goa via Kerala and Karnataka.

MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES

“When you travel, you realise that there are really nice people everywhere. When I would put up my tent in deserted areas of Spiti Valley, people would serve me food and make sure I was okay,” he says. Talking about his fondest memories, he recalls, “One of the nicest feeling was to reach Kargil on Kargil Vijay Diwas. I reached the LoC on Independence Day. It’s very difficult to describe the feeling. I saw a flag at one of the posts in the distance and it gave me goosebumps.”

Arunachal Pradesh gave him some memorable experiences. “It started raining heavily when I was riding towards Tawang through Sela Pass, and I was totally caught offguard. The conditions got worse in a while. Finally, I reached a village on my way downhill. I met a drunk guy. While he wanted to talk to me about my journey, I kept asking him about a place to stay. He asked me if I had a sleeping bag and when I said yes, he took me to his shop and let me stay there for the night. We bonded and formed an amazing connection. We are still in touch, years later.”

WHAT WILL YOU GROOVE TO THIS PARTY SEASON?

WHAT WILL YOU GROOVE TO THIS PARTY SEASON?
BT got the Bollywood music industry insiders to talk about the grooviest party tracks


With 2018 wrapping up and the party season well on its way, the playlist is what tops the priority list for music lovers. The year gone by has seen some fab compositions, quirky beats and tracks that have had the power to pull you to the dance floor. If you are wondering what to groove to this party season — this is the grooviest list in town. Bollywood music industry insiders reveal their favourite party numbers from 2018 and give the lowdown on all that’s great about these chartbusters.

CATCHY AND MELODIOUS


Singer Harshdeep Kaur, known for her work in Raazi, Manmarziyaan and Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi is all for Tareefan from Veere Di Wedding. And she is bang on. This track refused to budge from the Mirchi Top 20 Charts for over 22 weeks this year. She says, “It’s catchy and melodious at the same time. The music producer did a brilliant job and the treatment given to the sound was so fresh. Badshah brought his own swag to it. Apart from the music, the video of the song too was eye-catchy and classy.” Composer Amaal Mallik agree with Harshdeep and adds, “Kudos to Badshah and Qaran Mehta for Tareefan and Zack Knight, Jasmine Walia for Bom Diggy (which was also used in the film, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety). The music production is so new-age in both these songs. It’s an amazing blend of reggaeton and tropical pop elements. Both tracks have fantastic word play, a really catchy composition fused with Punjabi lyrics.”

QUIRKY VIBES ARE A PARTY STARTER

Who says that only EDM can make it to the top of party song lists? 2018 has had its share of quirky, funky tracks too. Singer Kavita Seth shares, “The song DhyaanChand from Manmarziyaan is a great party track. I like the blend of foot-tapping music and melody that Amit Trivedi has managed to infuse into this track, which also has a raw Indian vibe to it. I was able to connect to the sounds of this quirky number.”

GOOD DANCE MUSIC NEEDS A GREAT DROP

A variety of factors contribute to making a song top the party list. For composer Amaal, a song is branded as the ‘best party song’ based on how frequently they are played. He says, “For me a good song is one that is hummable, has lyrics that have meaning, along with some good phonetics. In today’s time, the most important bit in dance music is the drop. That is a melodic, non-lyrical section with catchy beats and just a musical riff and a good bass line. And in both Tareefan and Bom Diggy, the drop is melodious and has a jump too.” Singer Neeti Mohan seconds that and says, “Bom Diggy Diggy is among the best party songs this year and it has a cool composition. The drop is what makes it sound so cool.”

GROOVY YET NOT IN THE FACE

For the king of remixes, Tanishk Bagchi, the arrangement and the treatment play an important part in making the perfect party track. He says, “From the vibe and arrangement, to the treatment, Tareefan is a super cool track. It is different and the tune sets in so smooth. It’s a groovy number, but its not in your face. It definitely makes it to my list of top three dance numbers of 2018. The other songs are Dilbar from Satyameva Jayate and Aankh Marey from Simmba.”

ORIGINALS ALWAYS WORK

For singer Aditi Singh Sharma, Zack Knight’s Bom Diggy is a certified masterstroke. She says, “It’s so good to hear an original composition become such a big hit. It has been a hit in both its reiterations — in the film Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety as well as Zack’s independent single, too. The first time I heard this song I almost ended up memorising the lyrics at the first go. The kind of musical nuances that Zack has integrated into the song are really cool.”

DHOL GROOVES AND FOLK TUNES ARE IN

Composer Nakash Aziz swears by Yo Yo Honey Singh’s Dil Chori Sada Ho Gaya from Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety. He says, “This is a simple song with great dhol grooves, two chords and a folk tune. I just love the way the bass kicks in after the hook of the song. It’s got a very groovy feel. Honey Singh is a fantastic artiste.” Chogada from LoveYatri is another track that people want to dance to this party season. Singer Praakriti Kakar says, “Firstly, Chogada is an original composition and for an original dance number to become a rage and top the charts, has to be special. Darshan Rawal’s voice suits the song perfectly and the composers DJ Chetas and Lijo have nailed it with the fabulous blend of commercial and folk sounds. The fact that it has Hindi lyrics along with Gujarati, makes it massy.”

BEAT-HEAVY TRACKS WILL ALWAYS REMAIN POPULAR

When it comes to pure dance tracks, nothing beats Bollywood songs like Zingaat (Dhadak), Kamariya (Stree and Mitron), Khali Bali (Padmaavat), Dilbar (Satyameva Jayate) and Proper Patola (Namaste England). Mumbai’s disc and radio jockeys feel that the language and lyrics do not hold too much importance when it comes to beat-heavy tracks — especially when people are looking at dancing the night away.

Diet and exercise might reverse ageing in the brain, says research

While it’s a known fact that a healthy diet and exercise are important to maintain good health, a latest study has shown just how much they actually benefit the brain, and even possibly reverse effects of ageing. In a study, researchers led by James Blumenthal, a professor in psychiatry at Duke University Medical Center, found that even among a group of older people who already show signs of thinking problems, exercising regularly over six months and eating more healthy can improve performance on cognitive tests.

The 160 people began the study showing thinking skills that were similar to people in their 90s — 28 years older, on average, than they actually were. The volunteers were divided into four groups. One group participated in an aerobic exercise program, another was assigned a low-sodium diet, a third was asked to exercise and change their diet at the same time, and a fourth control group was provided educational sessions about how to improve their brain health.


The group that exercised and changed its diet at the same time showed the greatest improvements in cognitive tests after six months. They improved their test scores by nine years, to resemble those of people 84 years old. The control group showed a continued decline in their brain test scores, and the researchers did not see a significant benefit from either exercise or change in diet alone. “The bottom line is that it’s not too late to derive benefits from exercise,” says Blumenthal.

The fact that the group following both the exercise and diet programs showed the greatest benefit suggests that the two interventions may work together to improve brain health, Blumenthal says. “We saw evidence that exercise and the diet together are better than nothing,” he says. “We showed you can get improvements in function that can reduce and certainly improve neurocognitive function, and possibly even postpone development of dementia late in life.”

SHOP ON A BUDGET AT THIS SHOPPING FESTIVAL

With all the fantastic luxury fashion available in Dubai’s numerous malls and shopping districts, there are still plenty of spots to find delightful discounts. Luckily for shoppers, there are numerous places where surplus fashion, beauty and home furnishings are marked down on price. From big name luxury fashion brands to sports and highstreet lines, don’t miss out on great bargains at the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) from December 26 to February 2, 2019.

THE OUTLET VILLAGE


Think luxury brands and much more for less at The Outlet Village, Dubai’s discount shopping hub which opened in September 2016. At this Italian-themed indoor shopping spot, you’ll find luxury handbags at 50 per cent off, making it well-worth the 45-minute drive from the city centre. Plus, right next door is the ultimate theme park destination, Dubai Parks & Resorts, so combine fun and fashion for a fine day out.

THE OUTLET MALL

Not to be confused with its newer counterpart, The Outlet Mall is a shopping haven dedicated to fashion and lifestyle. All the big-name shopping emporiums send past season’s stock to The Outlet Mall, meaning there is a huge selection of luxury items from world-known designers to high street names sold at a fraction of their original price. There is also a great selection of home furnishings with slashed prices. This is a one-stop shopping destination for luxury lovers who can’t resist a bargain.

GARDEROBE

Pre-loved luxury is Garderobe’s USP, connecting bargain hunters with luxury goods that have been preowned. With a boutique on Beach Road in Jumeirah and an online store where you can browse bags, shoes and fashion from designers, ranging in price from AED500 to AED40,000. Nobody can resist the buzz of finding something coveted for a fraction of its original price, and with a number of high fashion lovers in the region constantly renewing their wardrobes, the stock in Garderobe is constantly being refreshed, making it a regular stop for those in the know.

BURJUMAN CENTRE: BUR DUBAI

BurJuman Centre’s longstanding history as an established shopping destination paired with a great variety of leading retailers, a state-ofthe-art cinema along and wide range of dining options make this mall a must-see. Shifting with the times, this once luxury retail destination now features popular global brands.

If you start to see these signs, you probably need a long break from social media

Social media has become as integral a part of our lives as eating and drinking, and if that’s not a sign of how unhealthy this addiction has become, we don’t know what is. If you’re going out, you put up stories; if it’s raining too much, you put up a post; you’re eating something new, you take a billion pictures to post, and so on and so forth. We know that this social media-dependent lifestyle doesn’t seem out-of-the-ordinary anymore because it’s how everyone lives. But that doesn’t mean it’s okay, or that we should continue on this vein of becoming more and more dependent on virtual gratification.

While we can’t pinpoint when we started living more for likes and comments, versus actually enjoying things in the moment, we can make a change now, before it’s too late. We’re not saying you need to completely give up on social media, but maybe taking a break or reducing the number of platforms you use or posts you put up, can be a good start. So, if you see any of these signs, you should know it’s time to sever your ties with social media.


People on the interweb know more about your life than those closest to you

If you ever get to a place where your social media followers know more about the ins and outs of your life than your family, friends or significant other, then it’s time to make a change. You may not think there’s anything wrong until it affects your relationship with the real people around you. So, don’t let that it get to that point.

You go to unbelievable lengths, just to get the perfect picture

We all take numerous pictures until we find the one that is perfect to post on social media, and that’s okay if it happens once in a while. But if you find yourself going to bizarre lengths to click a picture to post on Instagram — for example, taking a selfie right before you bungee jump or signing up for something just so you can get a picture out of it — you know there’s something wrong.

Your instant reflex at all times is to check social media

Whether you’re sitting in a waiting room at the doctor’s or even out for dinner with your friends, if your first reaction is to check social media updates, you have a problem. It’s not normal, not to mention rude, for you to constantly turn to social media, especially when you’re around people; and it’s a definite sign that you’re far too dependent on social media.

Social outings in your life are more like social media outings

Any plan that involves you interacting with other real human beings needs to be broadcast across your various social media platforms, because if it’s not on social media, it didn’t happen, right? Wrong. Get this warped idea out of your head and truly enjoy the moments you’re part of, with the people who truly matter to you. Stop living your life longing for appreciation from virtual strangers.

You can chronologically list out what’s been going on in your favourite celebrities’ lives

It’s okay to scroll through the Instagram feed of your favourite celebs. But if you can know what Katrina Kaif is eating for breakfast, lunch and dinner; or every detail of Zac Efron’s vacation, you’re spending too much time on social media. It’s a good time to take that break now.

Your daily life is affected far too much by social media happenings

If not getting enough likes or comments on a post, or seeing a post that you don’t like, sends you down an emotionally unstable spiral, that’s not okay. You will never be able to disconnect yourself from the virtual world if this is how much it affects you — take some time out, now.

Hollywood actor James McAvoy

‘I THINK I AM AN ATTRACTIVE PERSON, BUT I’M NOT IN THE LEAGUE OF THE BETTER-LOOKING ACTORS’
Hollywood actor James McAvoy, popular as Professor X from X-Men, talks to BT about his films and why he is okay with not being nominated at the Oscars


Scottish actor James McAvoy, known as Professor X (Charles Xavier) by X-Men movie buffs, grabbed eyeballs when he played Mr Tumnus in The Chronicles Of Narnia. However, it was his role in The Last King Of Scotland (2006) that shot him to fame as a promising young actor. From Atonement, Becoming Jane and Penelope (2007) to Wanted (2008) and the X-Men series, his shift to commercial Hollywood cinema hasn’t stopped him from indulging in what he does best — portray characters with internal conflicts. Over a phone call, James spoke to BT on his upcoming movie Glass, failing to bag an Oscar nomination, his take on Bollywood and more. Excerpts...

You once said, ‘I’m 5’7”, and I’ve got pasty white skin. I don’t think I’m ugly, but I’m not your classic lead man, Brad Pitt guy.’ Given your massive female fan following, you seem to underrate yourself a lot...


I think that I said this when I was in my mid-20s. I do think that I am an attractive person, but I am not in the league of the better-looking actors. However, I think that I have done pretty well with what has been given to me (laughs!). Not everybody can be or should be the most attractive example of humanity. We need every single grade and I think I am fairly ineluctable. It allows me to play a wide variety of roles. No one says things like, ‘He is ugly enough for this role’ or whatever. People don’t typecast me in any role, because I think that I am fairly average as a human being to look at. It’s easier for me to go in any direction.

You won rave reviews for Split (2016), where you played a man suffering from dissociative identity disorder. Many thought you deserved an Oscar nomination for that, but you didn’t. Was it disappointing?

Not really. I have been acting for 20 years and I am used to people telling me that I should have been nominated for this role or that role, but I am used to not being nominated. I haven’t been nominated (for the Oscar) even once, so it’s really fine. What matters to me is getting exciting work and wanting to do it every single day. Of course it’s great if you win awards, but I don’t lose sleep over it.

Portraying 24 personalities — did that affect you as a person?

Split didn’t affect me, but I have done films that sort of affected me negatively. Danny Boyle’s Trance (2013) did that. I didn’t feel very good about myself when I did that film and that’s obviously because of the character that I played.


JAMES MCAVOY


... in the

X-Men

I have done films that affected me negatively.

Danny Boyle’s Trance did that: James McAvoy

Weirdly in Glass and Split, I was happy that I had so much work to do. Playing multiple characters... there’s a lot of heavy lifting and it was a positive challenge. .

Your forthcoming film — M. Night Shyamalan’s superhero thriller Glass is being touted as Avengers for adults. Do you agree?

That’s a nice thing to say. It’s similar in a way that it’s about a group of people who are in a similar situation. They have their own clashes, but are forced to work together. It’s a fantasy as well, but perhaps, more realistic the way Night (Shyamalan) has made it. I not only enjoyed the action and the physical stunts, but also this unrealistic side to the beast (his character).

It was funny how you clarified on Instagram that you didn’t consume 6,000 calories a day to get bigger for your role in Glass...

When I gave an interview for Split, I said that (I eat 6000 calories a day) jokingly, and they knew that it was a joke! It got used out of context and I felt that I should clarify it, because there are people out there who struggle with their fitness and diet, or are obsessive about it.

I just got worried that someone might actually try it, as there are people who take what’s out there on the internet seriously without giving it a thought. I did eat plenty of food, about five meals a day, but I didn’t count the calories per se and it wasn’t 6000 for sure.

While you are known to be a good actor, Shyamalan seems to know how to extract the best out of you. What sets him apart as a director?

He is technically gifted. He knows how to go about the business of making a movie. They don’t all know how to do that. He is good with actors and speaks our language. He knows what he wants and that makes it easier for us. Night (Shyamalan) is organised and his preparation is second to none.

You did a British film called Bollywood Queen (2003) early on in your career. Hope you didn’t get a wrong impression of the Hindi film industry, Bollywood, based on that experience?

No! Not at all. It was very British, inspired by the love of Bollywood, and I think that it was nothing like a Bollywood film (laughs!)

Unlike your otherwise clever choices, that film was extremely disappointing...

Yes, it wasn’t a script that could connect with people.

When will we see you in India?

I would love to come to India. I have heard incredible things about it. I will go wherever the movies take me and I hope to come to Mumbai soon.

‘A vibrant nightlife will contribute to the livability and lovability of Mumbai’

...say restaurant owners and Mumbaikars, who are hopeful about a proposal to allow restaurants and pubs in the city to stay open 24 hours


Mumbai is said to be the city that never sleeps. That tag might ring true, only if the proposal to keep restaurants and bars open 24X7, goes through. The Yuva Sena chief, Aaditya Thackeray, has revisited his five-year-old proposal to allow city restaurants and pubs stay open 24 hours. Aaditya stresses on the point that it’s a matter of citizens’ rights and they need to be ‘given time to unwind after work’. However, this is with regard to only legal activities in non-residential areas.

As per a report, he has written to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on the matter. While the CM’s office has not mentioned anything about it yet, Mumbaikars, are keeping fingers crossed for this proposal to see the light of day. Restaurant owners and Mumbaikars spoke to BT about the kind of difference a move like this would make to their lifestyle and to the culture of the city....


‘It is the nightlife that gives a city its pace. It’s where culture thrives and where you meet people’

Riyaaz Amlani, President of the National Restaurant Association of India, is optimistic about the 24X7 proposal seeing concretisation. “It is something we have been fighting for, since the last six years. We strongly believe that by having a vibrant Mumbai, it will mean more than having the liberty to party. It will contribute tremendously to the livability and lovability of the city. In terms of attracting tourists, this will have an impact, too. Mumbai is one of the biggest cities in the world, but we see only see 5 lakh tourists per year, versus say a Bangkok, that sees 15 million. If you take a look at the most visited cities, like Paris, New York, London or Vegas, it’s not the historical monuments that drive tourism in a city, but the nightlife, as that is what gives a city its pace. It’s where culture thrives and where you meet people. But take a look at our lifestyle, we have been in a state of partial curfew. What is it that is legal in the day that becomes illegal in the night? Drinking and driving can be monitored, can’t it?

‘It will be a boon if the government creates zones which have 24/7 restaurants, as it is important to not disturb residents’

Sumit Gambhir of a gastropub at Colaba, says, “Mumbai, being the financial capital, when tourists come into the city, they are left struggling for food options, as all they have during early hours of the morning are five-star hotels or street food stalls. People must have 24-hour restaurant options in Mumbai, and asking for this is not unfair, it is a necessity. If people want to keep their premises open, they should be allowed to. From the employment point of view, it will mean job opportunities. So, if this proposal goes through, it will be a positive change.”

Restaurateur Amit Jambotkar affirms the view and suggests having specific zones to take the plan ahead. “Mumbai is an international city and we need a nightlife to match that. Providing food 24/7 is like providing one of the essential services. I think it will be a boon if the government creates zones which have 24/7 restaurants, as it is of prime importance not to disturb residents,” he says.

Call for: Night Mayors

Riyaaz also advocates the idea of having night mayors for Mumbai. “Today, cities across the world have woken up to night-time economy and have created night mayors. London has a night mayor, Berlin has one, so does New York. Their basic job is to increase night time economy.

This is not just about going out, partying and drinking. Today, if you go to Worli Seaface, you will see thousands of people just hanging out in the open space as they want to belong to the city. So, having a nightlife is also the ability to take a walk on Marine Drive at 3 am. Today, you are chased away. If I want to go shopping at night, I should be able to. Let’s have our own night mayors.”


Mumbaikars might soon be able to enjoy an all-night dining experience


Present deadline is 5 am for December 31
Currently, the night-time deadline for restaurants and pubs is 1.30 am on regular days, with establishments allowed to remain open until 5 am on December 31.

Will Mumbai get to see 24x7 nightlife, soon?

‘WE ARE A CITY THAT WORKS HARD AND WE SHOULD HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO PARTY HARD, ESPECIALLY ON SPECIAL OCCASIONS’

For Mumbaikars who are used to used to working round-the-clock, this might just be just the respite that they need. Says Gauri Nayar, communications professional, “I think it’s a great idea for the city to remain open all night on New Year’s Eve. We are a city that works so hard and we should therefore, have an opportunity to party hard, especially on special occasions. If residents are offered an option to celebrate all night, while feeling safe and secure, I believe they would welcome it.”

Adds Sameer Malkani of the Food Bloggers Association of India, “This will be a good move, if it happens in a controlled way. You need to also consider costs versus footfalls. As a Mumbaikar, I think it would be the one of best things to happen. It’s nice to know there’s always something buzzing around. We work late hours and the real leisure happens only post midnight, so this would be apt for us.”

‘WE REALLY OWE IT TO OUR CITIES AND OURSELVES TO GET OUT OF THIS STATE OF PARTIAL CURFEW. AND WHERE ELSE, BUT MUMBAI?’

While the proposal to allow establishments to operate through the night might need its safety nets and rules, restaurateur Amrish Arora hopes for a start. “I think 24 hours for a restaurant may not be as viable as they would be for a bar, but instead, how about taking baby steps and going halfway till 3 am? I have been fighting long for restaurants to have a 3 am deadline on all days. Today, if you go out after your work day (post 10 pm), you might want to party beyond the 1.30 am deadline. When they allow bars in five star hotels to remain open till 3 am, why discriminate against us restaurants?”

Riyaaz Amlani adds, “Another fallacy is that this move will make the city more unsafe, but I think that it will actually become safer. There will be more people on the roads and hence, more policing. In Mumbai, over the last few years, we have got permission to stay open till 5 am on December 24 and 31st and there has been no drastic increase in crime on these days. So, you can’t hold back an entire culture and employment of lakhs of people just on the pretext that people are drinking and driving.”

On a hopeful note, he sums up, “A move like this will also really spring the economy of Mumbai. The Maharashtra Government has been pushing for it strongly and I hope that by being the first city to actually implement this, we can set an example to the rest of the country. We really owe it to our cities and ourselves to get out of this state of partial curfew. And where else, but Mumbai?”

‘21-POINT FORMAT IS FANTASTIC TO WATCH’

P V Sindhu, Carolina Marin and Saina Nehwal got together at the TOI office in Hyderabad and spoke at length about a variety of subjects. The World No. 3, 6 and 9, respectively, found common ground on the 21-point rule, and poor scheduling of tournaments by the Badminton World Federation (BWF). The latter is taking a toll on their bodies, was the collective refrain. The trio–here on a Premier Badminton League (PBL) assignment–was also all praise for the league. Excerpts:
Three times world champion, Olympic champion. How do you motivate yourself to keep going after having achieved so much ever since you turned pro in 2005?

MARIN: I just want to keep improving my game. Now it’s becoming very tough as we have to play so many tournaments and also take care of my injuries. But my next goal is to win the All England in March and then the World Championships. Yes, it is difficult to motivate myself after winning so many major titles. But I just want to keep improving my game — my mental game, my physical aspect — and be ready for the next tournament.


You have this remarkable tendency to raise your game in the final. Is it a deliberate strategy or is it merely rising to the occasion? What do you do differently to achieve that?

I give 100% in the final. My preparation for big tournaments is to the best of my ability because that’s my main goal for my team and for myself. We just try to give our best to win big titles.

Which title do you cherish the most?

Every title is different. When I won the first World Championship, it was unbelievable for me, because I was really tired when I reached the final. I didn’t expect to win that game. But of them all, the Olympic Games title is very special.

Having played PV Sindhu and Saina Nehwal, who is the hardest nut to crack?

Both are tough competitors. Both have different styles and I need to have a different strategy for them. I cannot choose one of them because both are very good.

Do you think Saina and Sindhu have achieved their potential?

I am very sure they can go for more. Sindhu is younger than Saina but I think both of them can improve a lot.

There’s a Sindhu after Saina in India, but there’s no one yet after Marin in Spain despite your achievements…

You cannot compare badminton with football. Of course, badminton is getting more popular. Children and many parents are turning up for this game. It’s good that Spanish broadcasters are telecasting my games. Now there are so many young players like me. Some are doing good. But let’s see what happens in future. They know their way because they can look at me in practice. But they have to work hard to achieve these titles.

The Japanese players are doing well in all categories. Your take on that and do you think there is a paradigm shift from China to Japan?

Every country will do something different to be on the top. Japan are doing really good. Even Okuhara and Yamaguchi are improving a lot. We cannot compare countries, but the coaches are doing their best for their players.

How do you think PBL-like tournaments help players like you and badminton?

Tourneys like PBL help the players a lot. PBL is the best league in the world now. We have several best players in the world playing here. Everyone likes to play here, we can improve our game and we can play as a team.

You have been with Hyderabad Hunters last and in Hyderabad for quite some time. What all do you like about this city?

I like the crowd, the Hunters army. They are fantastic. When I played here they were amazing.

‘I always look to come back stronger’

You’ve salvaged the year by winning the BWF World Finals title. Were you tense before the final given the way the five previous finals — including the Commonwealth Games — panned out in the year?

SINDHU: This year I have played four finals and lost. But I won the Tour Final. I am very happy about it and that it came at the year-end made it more special. This also gives me a lot of confidence for the year ahead.

Are you taking any help from a psychologist on how to deal with tough situations, especially crucial junctures of a match. If not, how do you hold your nerve?

There’s nothing of that sort or I’d say there’s nothing going wrong in the final. You win some and lose some. I’d rather look at it this way: that I am very happy to come to the final and win silver than to see it as losing in the final. There’s no mindset or mind games going on when I come to the final and lose.

What do you think went wrong in those finals? If you were to play them again, would you play them differently? Is luck a factor?

Luck sometimes, yeah. But I can’t depend on it all the time. Usually after matches I go back, rectify my mistakes and come back stronger. Definitely, there will be some mistakes. So it’s good to go back and discuss with your coach and not repeat those mistakes again.

How does it feel now that the final jinx is over?

Yes, finally. Nobody will now be able to ask me: silver again?

Did it upset you, people constantly questioning your ability to overcome the final frontier? Or add to the pressure on you to deliver?

I never felt bad. It’s a thin line. You win some and lose some. It’s all part of the game. You have to take it in a very positive way.

You chose to train separately at a different academy. Is it helping you or do you miss good sparring partners as most of the top Indian shuttlers are at the other venue?

It (the move) has been helping me because we have some Indonesian coaches. Gopi sir is always there. Sometimes other players come where I train and I play with them. It’s helping me.

Your most memorable win and the most painful loss in your career so far?

Every tournament I won is very memorable. You can’t compare one tournament with another. I would say Olympics is one of the great moments even though I lost in the final. Getting a silver is definitely a very proud moment for me. I think apart from that I have played a lot of finals and lost them. If I have to pick one, I would say the World Championships last year where I played (Nozomi) Okuhara and lost 22-20 after a very long match. I felt very bad. It could’ve been anybody’s game. Luck didn’t favour me then.

Do you see any youngster in your academy ready for the big stage?

There are a lot of youngsters. Gopi sir’s daughter (Gayatri) is doing well. It will take time for them to reach this level.

All England Championships is the next big tournament for you. Last year you reached the semifinal, do you reckon this could be your year?

There’s some time before All England. There’s the Malaysian and other tournaments. Every tournament is important.

‘When I get injured, I tend to get a little lazy’

It’s a huge decision for every sportsperson and you took the plunge this year. How different is life after marriage?

SAINA: Two days after marriage, we started travelling and preparing for PBL in Mumbai. The only change is I’m strict with my diet and with the way I approach the injury (shin) that I have… He (Kashyap) is continuously telling me how to handle the situation so that I can be back on court sooner and start playing at the level I have to. When I get injured, I tend to get a little lazy. So that’s what we’ve been doing since marriage. Injury happens when you try to push your body beyond limits. I had to continue till Syed Modi. Otherwise, things are the same since we know each other for a long time.

What would be your pick if asked to choose between badminton and Kashyap?

I like winning more. I like badminton, I like Kashyap, too, but more than that I like winning. That’s why I have Kashyap. So now I have everything.

Compared to other sport, badminton has more couples playing the game. Any specific reason?

That’s because they are together most of the time. It’s not easy to play and party and go to different fields to find a boy or girl who is easy to communicate or easy to be with. Sportspersons are difficult to understand. That’s the fact. People may laugh, but we have different emotions which only sportspersons can understand. Besides, we tour a lot together and probably that’s how it happens.

How is PBL helping badminton and players like you?

It’s one of the biggest leagues in the world. There is no such league at this level. There is one league in China but that is only for the Chinese players. Full credit to PBL because it is not easy to call top players and handle their practice timings so well. PBL is a success and now more players want to come. The competition is of international standards. Juniors will learn a lot. I can see a lot of Indian girls liking badminton now.

After three years with Awadhe Warriors, you’ve moved to North Eastern Warriors for the fourth edition of PBL...

We won the matches we expected to win. At the moment I feel everyone is prepared and working well.

You’ve played some tough opponents and were the first to overcome the Chinese barrier. But who’s the toughest you’ve faced?

It has to be Tai Tzu Ying. She’s given me a tough time. Then we have Carolina (Marin), who is a major threat to most players. These two have been really fantastic. Their journey has been good for the last two, three years. They a re tough to crack, but I have to work hard.

Is it safe to assume that Chinese dominance is a thing of the past?

We can’t say that. The Chinese were champions for many years. Maybe in the last two years they have not done well but now I feel they are back. Now there is a new crop of players doing well. They know how to produce champions.

What are your next targets?

To stay injury-free. The way I’ve been playing in the last three-four months, I can see improvement. In the Denmark Open, I reached the final. I want to stay injury-free and improve.

You once said you’re not cut out for coaching. Any rethink on that front?

It’s not that I don’t like coaching. It’s not easy. I would help in any way possible.

Chinmaya Vision School

HAPPY CHILD, HAPPY NATION!
How often have we all heard about providing ‘quality education to our children’ and ‘children being the harbingers of the future’? Very often, right? But when you meet a student who thinks highly of their school and narrates success stories, it makes you realise that some schools provide not just the right education but also an ambience of happiness which can only bring out the best values.

Shreya Parekh, who joined Little Aryan’s at 3. Now in her 10th grade, she won the Pre National Title for Rifle Shooting at the GV Mavalankar 2016 Games. “All I thought about that day was that if I give my best today, I will achieve my ultimate goal of self realisation. My parents often ask me where I learnt to think so clearly. My school conducts a program called ‘Project Humanitarian’, where 10-12 intense sessions are conducted through the year, to help us understand emotions and undergo a path of self discovery. We are also given a chance to present our learnings to an audience.


I also met my school Alumni, and got to hear their success stories. I met Ritvik Jain who scored 118 rank in All India NEET, Shreya Humne, Content Curator who topped Bachelor of Mass Media and Vedant Prassanna Kumar, studying in IISER (Indian Institute of Science Education and Research). According to Vedant the experiential learning approach at Arya Gurukul helped him. Infact,

our Research Based Project (RBP), titled “Designing the future of biological science for disposing off the deceased materials in the space expedition” has got published in an international journal.

Shreya added, “After I won the tournament, my school started a Centre for Rifle shooting, and guess who was the chief guest for the inaugural function? Me! I felt privileged and honoured. I urge you to visit our school where you will be welcomed by beautiful portraits painted by our students and an aura of happiness.”

“We are fortunate to be the first Chinmaya Vision School in India. It is little happy steps that make a Happy Nation” quotes Neelam Malik, Director, Arya Gurukul.

For more details contact:

Nandivali, Shri Malang Road,Kalyan (E). Phone: 022 301 555 77 / www.aryagurukul.in

B. K. BIRLA PUBLIC SCHOOL, KALYAN

Symbolizing Excellence

B. K. Birla Public School, Kalyan is a Co-Ed CBSE affiliated school offering quality education to over 2900 students from preprimary to class XII. The school is spread over 6 acres of lush green campus beautifully landscaped with well equipped laboratories, libraries, sports rooms and other state of the art facilities.


The school offers a well integrated curriculum for the multidimensional and holistic development of the students. Students’ enthusiastically participate in collaborative activities with schools globally through various immersion programmes.

Keeping pace with the technological developments, the school has also recently added a 3D Lab to take teaching- learning of Science and Maths to a next level.

BKBPS has initiated various safety measures to provide a secured learning environment. The Electronic Access Control System allows entry through turnstile gates only against RFID Cards and photo visitors’ pass.

The school has won the prestigious IMC Ram Krishna Bajaj Performance Excellence trophy for excellence in education and is among the top ten schools according to the leading newspapers and magazines. BKBPS has been certified as a Great Place to Work by GPTW India with an impressive trust index of 92.3%. It is also ranked 15th amongst India’s Top 50 Great Mid-Size Work Places and ranked as the best workplace in the education and training industry.

For details contact: B. K. Birla Public School, Kalyan - 421304 www.bkbirlaschoolkalyan. comaccounts@birlaschoolkalyan.com

THE GREEN ACRES IGCSE SCHOOL LAUNCHES IN CHEMBUR

THE GREEN ACRES IGCSE SCHOOL LAUNCHES IN CHEMBUR
The Green Acres’ new IGCSE school launching in 2019 will have a state of the art auditorium, sports facilities, robotics lab, art studios and galleries, and cutting edge maker spaces and 3D printing.

A deep focus on technology as a tool will form a core of the curriculum. Students will learn to navigate and flourish in the digital world of the 21st century and succeed in the jobs of the future.


An emphasis on the music, dance, drama, national and foreign languages and sports will build the all-round capabilities of the student.

It will also bring in the latest techniques in teaching by providing professional development programs for their teachers through their international partners from Australia and the Netherlands. The Green Acres Academy ensure that everyone is constantly refreshing their skills and learning new ones.

A unique “advisor model” will guide the child through school, ensuring that they are future ready, and will work with parents, teachers and the child on their progress.

For more details contact:

Tel No: 022 – 3383 6262 Email id: igcse.admissions. chembur@greenacresacademy.in

Aditya Birla World Academy (ABWA), an International school

ABWA: Nurturing Excellence
A school that offers an international education is metaphorically a “world in miniature”, where one receives training for life; where one learns to take on challenges; where active and joyful learning takes place. It is here that one is encouraged to think and question, to look beyond and evolve as independent learners with global perspectives. This is the ethos of Aditya Birla World Academy (ABWA), an International school with an Indian soul.

Education today focuses on ‘specialization’; ABWA identifies perfectly with this new trend, yet, strongly emphasizes the importance of a holistic development.


The chairperson Neerja Birla lays emphasis on making the student believe in themselves, the ultimate objective being “to instil in children a deep sense of self-belief that comes through deeply instilled values and a spirit that seeks excellence”.

Aditya Birla World Academy offers internationally benchmarked qualifications from Cambridge Assessment International Education from LKg till grade

10. For students of grades 11 & 12 it is one of the few schools to offer two equally invigorating programmes – A Level & IBDP. They have a unique Pre IBDP & Pre A Level programme which prepares children to transition from secondary to senior school. grade 11 students benefit from a comprehensive internship programme.

The IGCSE /A Level and IBDP results of the school are testimony to the effectiveness of the teaching-learning process. This has been further validated by marked improvement in university placements. Their young achievers aced the country and world academic rankings by bagging 2 world and 6 country topper positions in 2017! The small class sizes and ideal teacher student ratio, facilitate individual attention reconfirming that ABWA believes that every child matters.

Their focus on experiential learning extends to guest speakers, field trips, and virtual reality. Dynamic speakers such as Andre Agassi, Steffi Graf, Boris Becker, Stefan Haves, Vivek Wadhwa and others have inspired their students to look beyond and ahead.

Students get opportunities to attend the certified CERN training programme in Geneva and CTY summer courses at the John Hopkins University campus in Baltimore, Maryland.

The school also encourages participation in different international math competitions. At the recent NEAMC, Seoul, students won 2 gold, 2 silver and 5 bronze medals; they also participated at the World Mathematics Championship, Australia. At the World TEAM Championship held in Bangkok, Aditya Birla World Academy was the only school that represented India!

ABWA offers a range of activities to engage students with diverse interests and passions: there are clubs such as MUN, STEM, community service as well as inter-house competitions. Students are also encouraged to participate in interschool events. In line with the philosophy to make students independent learners, students have been empowered to manage annual events of dance marathon and art auctions. Students are also offered opportunities to join international programmes such as the Indo-Swiss Programme, the Summer Programme at Cambridge and Language Immersion in Spain. Furthermore, educational tours to Germany and Italy serve to widen their horizons.

Edu Tours provide an exhilarating opportunity for students to learn life skills surrounded by nature and engaging in adventure activities.

Community Service, which aims to sensitise the students to social responsibility, is an integral part of the curriculum from LKg onwards.

Emotional well-being is at the heart of the core philosophy of the school. The Youth Empowerment & Leadership Programme (YELP!) framework and the Mentoring Programme (CONNECT 101) support this goal in many ways. Talk Time in Primary, Teen Time in the Middle school and the Advisory are forums that help students voice their feelings openly.

Having identified the non-negotiable need for ongoing professional development, the school conducts regular workshops for the teachers to learn the latest pedagogical skills they can use in their classrooms.

Students participate in the morning/afternoon sports programme. The school has arrangements with several sports grounds to facilitate this requirement. Students train under the guidance of professional coaches, and can choose from Football, Athletics, Cricket, Badminton, Basketball, Table Tennis, and Horse Riding. Students are also trained to participate in Inter-school, DSO & MSSA tournaments.

Their motto “learn achieve inspire” epitomizes the spirit of the school.

Accolades ABWA may win a plenty, but for the school, more than any award, the emotional well-being of the children is of utmost importance. The best award is to see the smiling faces of their children as they embark on their lifelong journey of learning. ABWA is proud to be the driving force in creating positive-minded individuals who will contribute towards a better world.

For more details contact:

Vastu Shilp Annexe, Gamadia Colony, JD Road, Tardeo, Mumbai – 400 007 +91 22 23528400 www.adityabirlaworld academy.com admissions@adityabirla worldacademy.com


Nirja Birla - Chairperson


Aditya Birla World Academy


Students of Aditya Birla World Academy

C P GOENKA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

BUILDING LEADERS OF TOMORROW
CP Goenka International School focuses its energies on creating leaders of tomorrow, who possess values of life and are equipped to deal with the changing dynamics of the future.

As careers are adapting to the future, students of today need to adapt to newer ways of learning and working. Ivan Welton Fitzwater once said, “The future of the world is in my classroom today.” It rightly emphasizes upon the role played by education in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. This is the core belief with which C P Goenka International School has been imparting educational values and life principles to numerous children over a span of 18 years now.


“To ensure growth and development of every student as a global citizen through the simultaneous realization of academic, physical, cultural and spiritual aspiration,” is the vision by which the school was set up in the year 2000. Located in Juhu, Oshiwara, Borivali, Thane and Pune C P Goenka Group of Schools have adopted the ICSE, CBSE, IB and CAIE boards and examinations, wherein each board and examining body, with its distinct characteristics aids in imparting a diverse form of education.

“At CPGIS, we focus on learner centric education rather than the traditional teacher centered approach. This allows us to embrace the intelligence and contribution of each and every student,” says Archana Goenka-Founder Trustee. Technology is used in the classroom to augment learning. Collaborative learning and teamwork are integral parts of the learning process and for better understanding of the subjects, blended and flipped learning, real life applications and simulations are conducted. Learning techniques at CPGIS are continuously evolving to include the latest learning technologies like Robotics, 3D printing and augmented reality.

Optimum learning and development at the school is further enhanced with spacious, air conditioned and digitally smart classrooms. Students are able to make the most of a stimulating environment which ignites their young minds and enables them to analyze concepts better. With constant CCTV surveillance, the school campus is a safe and secure place for the students. The specialized sports and performing arts facility on campus grooms the students in extra-curricular activities and crafts which they learn for a lifetime.

In a bid to give wings to students to pursue their dreams and bring out their hidden talents. A special day called ’MDM’ – My Delightful Moment is organized at CPGIS. Students are free to choose and showcase any talent or skill they desire like singing, dancing, monologue, storytelling, miming, poetry recitation or even sharing their experiences about their most delightful moments. Through this they guide a generation of young students to grow in confidence and independence and thus lead them into a future of fulfilment and success.

In today’s age and times, it is undoubtedly necessary that children grow up with principles of conscientious living. Students are involved in creating awareness about conserving water and caring for the Earth and accordingly took part in Swatchha Bharat Abhiyaan. They raised substantial funds for NGO “Habitat for Humanity” to build public toilet blocks in villages.

In addition to the above, students are trained in Debates, MUN, Cascades, IAYP and Interact Club. The program at CPGIS allows for a global perspective with student exchange programs with France and learning exchange programs with South Korean schools and are extending these programs to other countries.

For further details contact:

Juhu: 02261286900/9137740918 Oshiwara: 02226321900/8779076853 Thane: 02241535520/02248855555 Borivali: 02228911473/9136133900 www. cpgoenkainternationalschool.com www.springbudspreschools.com

RYAN INTERNATIONAL

Developing future-ready global citizens
With over four decades of imparting the highest quality education, the Ryan International Group of Institutions continues to develop today’s young minds into tomorrow’s high-impact leaders.

They know from their experience in 40 cities across 18 states that starting a student with the right foundation is fundamental to the student’s future development and success.


Their vision statement articulates 12 principles that guide excellence in education and all-round development.

Emanating from this vision, here are 7 Reasons why Ryan should be the first choice of school:

Academics as the bedrock of a holistic education

At Ryan, they equip students with 21st Century skills to prepare them to thrive in the 21st century world. That’s why they make academics the foundation of an all-round education.

Ryan’s Kindergarten Programme makes learning a joy while focusing on development of language, reading, writing and math skills.

Ryan’s Primary Programme develops intellectual, social and emotional skills through a comprehensive curriculum which goes beyond daily core subjects.

Ryan’s Senior Programme provides students the opportunity to grow into confident global citizens, while they pursue their dreams through academic and extracurricular achievements.

Reaching high from this solid foundation, Ryan students have gone on to study at several top 100 Global Universities including Harvard, London School of Economics and Political Science, Harrisburg University of Science and Technology, Royal College of Arts, Indian Institute of Technology and many others.

Grooming champions

At Ryan they go beyond integrating physical education into the curriculum: they prepare their gifted students for the highest levels of competition in sport.

The students are coached by the best: Bhaichung Bhutia Football Club, Mahesh Bhupati Tennis Academy and Anil Kumble’s TENVIC Academy, to name a few.

Some of Ryan’s shining stars include Chirag Shetty, Commonwealth Gold Medalist in Badminton, Arjun Vajpai, the 3rd youngest Indian to climb Mount Everest and Karman Thandi, only the 6th Indian Woman in the WTA 200.

Classrooms without walls

To stimulate students’ interest in world affairs, arts & culture and Media they provide hands-on experience of the concepts learnt in class.

Started in 2000, Ryan’s Indian Model United Nations is India’s first and largest United Nations simulation program, involving over 1000 young delegates from 90 schools spread across 40 countries.

RYAN TV, the Group’s Media House, has been a pioneer in introducing the concept of Education Through A Lens. RYAN TV offers courses in journalism, short film making, advertising, script writing and more.

Ryan Group of Schools excels in the World Scholar’s Cup, an international team academic tournament with 82 participating countries.

Nurturing change makers

Their students understand & empathize with social issues and undertake remarkable initiatives to address them. These include humanitarian projects based on compassion, environment, health care, economic empowerment and local leadership development.

One of their noteworthy initiatives was the Food Bucket Challenge, in which 3,00,000 students and parents participated in mobilizing and distributing 7,50,000 kg of food grain to over 200 NGO’s across the country. Another, the world’s largest charity donation of 205,122 items of clothing for the poor, put that Ryan Schools group into the Guinness Book of World Records.

Schools without borders

Structured student exchange programs as part of the learning process such as with Thames Valley Summer School (London), Astronaut Training Experience Program at NASA (Washington D.C.), Global Young Leader Conference (New York) and World Children’s Theatre Festival (Lingen) involve students and teachers at national and international levels.

Learning printed by technology

Several of Ryan Group of Schools incorporate Niti Aayog’s Atal Tinkering Labs, which foster curiosity, creativity and imagination in students; and inculcate skills such as design mindset, computational thinking, adaptive learning and physical computing. They also integrate technology in their communication with parents through the Ryan Parent App. PLATO (Personalized Learning & Assessment Tool) is a custom built learning app for Ryanites.

Recognition from all over the world: Over 200 awards received

Ryan Group of Schools has won over 200 awards for their contribution to education and social service. These include Asia’s Best K-12 Education Institute and Best Education Brand of 2018 by Economic Times.

Their schools have been consistently ranked as India’s Best Schools in numerous surveys conducted by Times of India. When thinking of the right place for a child, look no further than Ryan. The group offers every curriculum available in India, so there’s one that’s right for your child.

For more details contact:

CBSE Schools Kandivli - 28706063 / 28708866 Malad – 28886655 Sanpada - 27750429 / 65107486 New Panvel - 27462273 / 27462275 Nallasopara – 9657608094

ICSE Schools Kandivli - 28541864/ 28541683 Malad - 28824216/ 28824217 Goregaon - 28432371 / 28411862 Chembur - 25545485 / 25544595 Kharghar - 27740672 / 65161799 Nerul - 27719687 / 277296 88

IB/IGCSE Schools Andheri - 26320203/ 26320204/ 26320205 Chembur - 25545485 / 25544595 Kharghar - 27740672 / 65161799 www.ryaninternational.org

St. Xavier’s English High School and Junior College

Empowering young minds, achieving education benchmark
Sited on an eight-acre eco-friendly campus in Thane (West), Mumbai, the coeducational St. Xavier’s English High School and Junior College (est.1993) has earned an excellent reputation for providing high-quality, holistic, affordable education to 6,299 students mentored by 300 teachers. Affiliated with the Maharashtra State Board of secondary and Higher Education (MSBSHSE), it provides a rigorous academic programme supplemented with a plethora of sports and extra-curricular activities to promote the allround development of students.

Founded in the year 1993 as Anand Vidyalaya, it was rechristened to its present name St. Xavier’s English High School & Junior College in the year 1995 by Parasnath Rammurti Rai, a well-known educationist and founder-chairman of the Rammurti Education Society which also manages St. Xavier’s Global Academy, Thane and St. Xavier’s High School, Panvel. The society’s objective is to provide ‘education for all and develop moral values, transparency of thought and communication skills within students.’ St. Xavier’s Global Academy, Thane is the society’s most recent step towards bringing quality education to the young minds of today. Soon to be affiliated to the CBSE Board, St. Xavier’s Global Academy has successfully completed its first academic year. With the pivotal vision of over-all development of all students, SXGA gives equal emphasis to scholastic and co-scholastic activities. Several students have exceled in interschool competitions, hence upholding the St. Xavier’s spirit of triumph. During the course of its initial academic year, St. Xavier’s Global Academy bagged the title of Best Upcoming CBSE School by a leading education magazine The Visionary Educationist, Parasnath Rammurti Rai was recently facilitated by a leading Education Magazine and was presented with the honourable title of ‘Education Icon of the Year – 2018’ for his exemplary contribution in the field of Education.


Co-curricular and Sports Education

St. Xavier’s students excel in academics as well as sports, this is solely due to the commitment of delivering true holistic education. St. Xavier’s offers excellent sports and co-curricular infrastructure, topped up with excellent supervision of all sports and co-scholastic activities by seasoned veterans. The campus houses indoor and outdoor sports facilities with experienced professionals coaching students in several sport disciplines such as athletics, basketball, cricket and football.

Master Souryam Rai has created Guinness World Record by participating in The Longest Biscuit (cookie) dunking relay.

The school also boasts a 1000 seat auditorium, multi-purpose hall, wellequipped art, music and dance studios, an infirmary with two full time nurses and a doctor on call and two full time counsellors.

For details contact:

St.Xaviers’ English High School & Jr. College Rai Master Compound, Chitalsar Manpada, Thane (W)- 400607 stxehsthane@gmail.com +91 022 2589 4422

D Y Patil International School

Excellence is a way of life at D Y Patil International School
DY Patil International School (DYPIS) is a school that believes in innovation school where thinking out of the box is instilled deep. They believe that innovation can come from either ‘invention’ or ‘iteration’, however if it does not meet the idea of ‘resourceful and usable’’ it is not innovative. Teachers are facilitators and students are encouraged to be independent explorers in this process of learning and innovating.

As you walk through DYPIS, not only will the enthusiasm and pride of their students for their school greet you, but a collection of some amazing student work on the walls. The pride you will see in the eyes of the students is because they are the school. The students see their work and art displayed in every facet of the school. This empowers the students; as ownership of not only the product, but the process is equally crucial.


The school is biased towards work done by students, as they would rather see the imperfect work of a student then the perfect work of a staff member. This not only leads to more pride and ownership at the school but it also leads to real life opportunities now that can lead to opportunities in the future.

The process of learning is what is honoured and students are encouraged to adopt a reflective stance rather than just being either too critical about themselves or too lenient. This creates a safe place to make mistakes and learn from them which is a crucial part of learning. Students consider mistakes as the opportunities to reflect on themselves as learners, be it community service, role play or music performance, writer’s workshop or something as simple as their invented spelling in language lab.

The educational ideals and practices which prevail at D Y Patil International School are worth considering. They advocate that now is the time to increase opportunities, to multiply privileges, to raise standards of living and to insure through conservative action a substantial basis on which the coming generations may safely build. DYPIS Worli invests considerable time in supporting and preparing students for their transition to higher education and has close links with reputable universities for placements. A majority of graduating students, who aspire to pursue higher education, receive first choice admissions into excellent universities in UK and USA. There are also students attending universities in many other countries worldwide including Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore and Canada.

Here at D Y Patil International School, the chairpersons, administration and staff do agree that development should encompass more than just intelligence, which is why they focus on adversity, social and emotional quotient as well.

Students are not far behind when it comes to co-curricular and extra-curricular activities like creative writing club, Spell Bee, MUN, literature fest, social science club, Diplomathon, Robotics and STEAM. In the field of sports, DYPIS has produced high achievers in the various categories like football, chess, Taekwondo etc. Students take part in all MSSA and DSO sports tournaments, besides qualifying for swimming competitions like GMMM and other aquatic championships. Students are also trained in arts, drama, public speaking, dance, skating and more. The student council is encouraged to conduct in house events like Teachers Day, exhibitions, fun fair and the like.

Students go out on excursions, domestic field trips and International educational tours to have a well planned learning experience, away from school. DYPIS Worli, played host to students of DYPIS Belgium who were in Mumbai through the student exchange programme. This year they will be visiting the D Y Patil International School in Belgium.

Teachers are continually attending professional development workshops to upgrade their understanding and practices of the international educational community and dispense the same to their cohorts.

All these reflect the very high standards and expectations for teaching and learning and the calibre and ability of the student body at D Y Patil International School, Worli. At DYPIS, they constantly talk about preparing students for the opportunities in the future, but they truly believe that there is no time like the present to create this within the school and society.

For further details contact:

D Y Patil International School Tel: +91-22-24217999 Email: info@dypisworli.in Website: www.dypisworli.inD Y Patil International School Tel: +91-22-27700840 / 27710840 Email: contact@dypisworli.in Website: www.dypisnerul.in

Bombay Cambridge Gurukul

30 years of Leading Change in Education
Bombay Cambridge Gurukul Chairman, Vikram Patel says, “In this era of globalization, we want our students to be responsible world citizens of the future, people who are sensitive and have compassion, who have the resilience to face challenges, and demonstrate respect for all living organisms on the planet. Every BCG student has within him/her tremendous potential and the confidence to make a significant contribution to the life of all around them.”

With approximately 700 teachers and 12,000 students BCG ensures that there is a healthy teacher-student ratio so that every child gets the necessary attention to understand, imbibe and apply the knowledge that is imparted in class. The BCG curriculum functions within the framework set by the Cambridge Assessment International Education, UK and the Maharashtra State Education Board. The academic curriculum is further augmented by off-site camps, field excursions and study tours. Chief Education Officer, Achama Mathew adds, “The academic standards in BCG are extra-ordinary, with 75% of our students scoring distinction and above in Board exams, thanks to the excellent teaching faculty. Being selected to pilot and implement the new Global Perspectives curriculum by Cambridge Assessment International Education is a testimonial to our curricular planning and design.”


Nothing helps all-round development more than engaging in creative and collaborative pursuits. Students participate enthusiastically in the BCG Model United Nations each year, taking one more step towards being global citizens. Students are benchmarked at the school-level, inter-BCG level and the national and international level in a wide array of competitions and examinations, as per their choice. These activities help students identify their interests, express their potential, and hone their talents. With a special focus on sports, students outdo themselves to shine at Athlein, the Inter-BCG Sports Meet held annually.

The schools have an active Child Protection Policy since 2015, drafted by experienced educators. The school students are involved with several community service programs which sensitize the students to varying human conditions and their environment. Value added programs for career awareness and life skills build self-esteem, leadership skills, social confidence, and conscious citizenship in the students.

BCG schools have been awarded for excellence in pedagogy, internationalism, career awareness, student centrism, and academic reputation among others at the national and international level, while making the rank among top schools by leading newspapers.

Head of HRD, Upasana Saraf vouches, “ What makes a BCG school stand-out is the warm and nurturing eco-system created with a student centric approach at the heart of every decision. The schools are conscious of building psychological and emotional health as much as the capacity to think and analyze in students. The schools stand proof that student sensitive practices are conducive to excellent academic achievement and all-round development.”

WORLD LEADING LEARNING AT EDUBRIDGE

Now in its sixth year, Edubridge International School is now one of the leading schools in South Mumbai.

Edubridge is a fully authorized IB World School embracing the IB’s philosophy of a holistic and well-balanced education for children of ages 2 - 19. Edubridge offers only IB programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (IBDP).


It’s recent diploma results where students scored above work average is only one of the indicators of success. The school is known for its innovative learning environment and the holistic development of every student. Most important is the vision of being a happy positive school where everyone enjoys learning at all levels.

The school now has a new block built for Diploma students with a well-stocked library, specially designed performing arts and visual arts rooms, and two multipurpose sports courts. The school also has a separate kindergarten play area with durable safety flooring and play equipment. There is also a modern and colourful cafeteria.

There is a vibrant and happy atmosphere in the school with a real focus on inspiring all children to identify the gifts that they are born with and to excel in their passions within a caring and supportive environment.

Admirable is the tender care shown by teachers towards their students. Even the support staff is very helpful and supportive towards the children and their parents.

EIS is promoted by Amal Parikh, Viral Parikh and Rraman Siingh. Their vision is to create a world-leading learning. The promoters say, “We have benchmarked this school against the best IB schools in the world and will continuously strive to make it better each year.

The new Head of School, Dr. Tassos Anastasiades joins the school with a plethora of international experience from the UK, Asia, Africa and Europe as well as leading schools. Dr. Anastasiades has also been a leader in IBO, CIS and BSO inspections. His vision always puts the learner first – and believes in inspirational learning, and high expectations. Celebrating and motivating every child to work towards their passion is what teachers do – they never know where their influence will end.

Dr. Anastasiades’s vision puts learning, integrated with technology, high aspirations for all students, their future, and the concept and application that learning can occur everywhere, every minute a challenge, every minute a success – is a very powerful way to motivate all learners. Benchmarked against national and international assessments, and sharing learning with parents, EIS now has a triangulated and powerful tool for World Leading Learning.

Indeed the developments at EIS are world-leading.

* EIS is presently seeking CIS Membership which will put the school on the international schools network as a school that meets international standards * Every child is assessed externally by GL, cognitively and curriculum standards - so parents know exactly where they are and what progress is needed, in comparison with international standards. Every parent, every child, knows their next step in learning * Technology is fully integrated into clear learning journeys, which can be evidenced by recording learning on digital learning journeys. The use of SeeSaw to provide evidence of learning and voice is revolutionary - with learning evidenced anywhere!

* Students know their learning next steps, and progress is measured every 6 weeks, both formative and summative. This has enabled students to lead their own teacher conferences.

Admissions are now open for the academic year 2019 - 20 from Playgroup through Grade 12. Edubridge is also working with the Ohm Jyoti Foundation to provide scholarships to deserving students for Grades 11 and 12 in the IB Diploma Programme.

For details, contact:

Edubridge International School, Wadilal A. Patel Marg, Grant Road (East), Mumbai – 400 007 Phone: +91-22 -2389 9900 Mobile: +91 96191 28181 or email at admission@ edubridge- school.org

NAHAR INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

AN APPROACH TOWARDS BALANCED CURRICULUM
An essential aspect of present day education, which is becoming increasingly globalized, is the need for a balanced curriculum. Why is this necessary and how should it be ensured?

The first thing to be considered is the contrariety between the requirements of the international curriculum and the existing reality. International curriculums demand a well-rounded individual who is prepared to become intellectually, emotionally and physically healthy and is able to take the right decisions, not just for himself but for the betterment of society. On the other hand, the world around us shows our young minds that money is all-important, and that quick, perhaps even erroneous, decisions must be made to earn more of this gold dust.


This confuses these emerging thinkers. In school, they are taught to be honest, empathetic, thoughtful, hardworking and much more. But the minute they step out, they see people carrying out thoughtless acts, searching for short-cuts, indulging in cutthroat competition.

In this confusing atmosphere, they struggle to search for inspirational role models. Very often, they choose unwisely due to the socially and ethically degenerating environment.

How can it be ensured, then, that these impressionable minds become balanced and thoughtful, action-oriented adults, and create a better world?

At Nahar International School, they do this by showing them the human context to every concept they learn. The school not only makes them aware of real life challenges but asks them to ideate, innovate in order to think of solutions to these.

According to Vandana Arora, Head of School, curriculums play a large role in directing student awareness, thinking and action. We work on our curriculums with scrutiny, questioning our motives and practices: what are we teaching? Why are we teaching it? How do we teach it? What is the appropriate time to teach a particular topic? Why is it the appropriate time? These curriculums go through a continuous process of review and modification. And students’ feedback, their learning patterns, their contributions make them active participants in the process of curriculum creation . However, to achieve the right equilibrium, to create the right balance requires contribution by the larger society such as parents, family members, and friends too. All of us can come together to create not only an intellectually stimulating but also emotionally caring, as well as motivating environment for the young minds of the world, in the homes we inhabit, through the education spaces we create, the recreation spaces we unwind in, the conversations we have, in the human dealings we have with them - so that they grow to be conscientious adults who are thoughtful of every action of theirs.”

For more details contact: Nahar International School, Nahar’s Amrit Shakti, Chandivali Farm Road, off Saki Vihar Road, Andheri (East), Mumbai - 400 072. +91 22 2847 5511 / 5522 info@nahar-is.org www.nahar-is.org

RAM RATNA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

OPENING DOORS TO THE FUTURE
A school is a place where the young minds are groomed to become the best of their capacity and this is possible only if they feel happy, loved and safe to learn and grow. RRIS believes in creating a happy learning environment. Some of the innovative practices that they follow are:

Marvellous Monday: Students and staff dance their hearts out to start the week with full zeal and beat the Monday blues.


Appreciation Tuesday: Appreciating others.

Smiley Wednesday: Bringing smiles to other’s faces.

Thank you Thursday: A day to thank people around and thus developing a spirit of gratitude.

Forgiveness Friday: To develop the courage to ask for forgiveness and a big heart to forgive everyone.

Express Saturday: Express their talents and ideas.

Service Sunday: Helping people at home or in one community.

A departure assembly is held daily where students are given an opportunity to perform on their favourite topic and groom themselves.

I Think I Feel box: In this program students write to the Principal about their feelings, thoughts and ideas.

Students have breakfast with the principal and have an open heart to heart chat.

Happy calling to the parents to appreciate their ward.

To make academics enjoyable RRIS has introduced domestic and international tours, play way methodology, Eureka-Science-based handson activities, and camping etc.

School Court: A student’s body deals with the cases of bullying and allocates buddies to those who have been bullied or require support.

Various CCA activities like house presentations, compèring, dance, music, participating in the annual day. Sports facilities like volleyball, skating, taekwondo, etc. are provided so that every child can excel in their area of interest.

Silent Break (Alpaviram) is followed in RRIS to give peace to the mind.

Coins for a Cause: This activity is conducted to develop a sense of saving and compassionate. Many such activities are planned under the banner of Joy of Sharing.

Nurture the Nature: RRIS motivates its students to follow the zero-waste policy at the places of worships. Various other environment-based activities are held in association with My Green Society.

It is commendable that RRIS has taken such positive steps to nurture its students and giving them a strong foundation for their bright future.

For more details ontact:

Ram Ratna International School, Uttan, Bhayander West 022-28451612/13 PRO:8879660895 l www.rrischool.org

Depression hard to manage for students

Management students learn how to manage the affairs of corporate giants and business houses, but it seems that they are failing to manage depression.

A recent survey of 10 education institutes and corporate groups in Ahmedabad, covering around 4,000 people, by two students has found that management students are most vulnerable to severe depression.


“Around 47% management students in city colleges were found to be struggling with depression. Engineering students came next, with 24.4% of them suffering depression. The factors behind this are mainly their future — career, and personal issues which mainly involve their love life, apart from the pressures of studies,” says the study by two third-year BBA students, Siddharth Kambalia and Meet Kapadia.

Kambalia said they formed questions according to the criteria set by the World Health Organisation. For example, they asked subjects if they were facing a problem in their career, family, love life or health issues and if they had sought help from counsellors to tackle this mental condition. The questionnaires, which included details like gender, age, education and profession, suggest that people aged between 18 and 22 are worst affected by depression.

A gender-wise analysis indicated that men were more vulnerable to the disorder with around 58% of males and 42% of females suffering from depression.

“We took responses from people aged between 15 and 60 and were shocked to find that young people are the worst affected. Relationship issues, problems finding love and failure, were the main factors behind depression in the young age group. Many people in their 50s said that their failures in relationships from their college days still haunt them and they are depressed,” said Kambalia.

Kambalia and Kapadia conducted this study to make a tool-based game to help young people emerge from depression.

65% of respondents said they faced critical problems in their career, friendships or academics and went into depression because of that

54% of respondents faced problems in their relationships and 53% had issues in family life

58% found solutions themselves and 40% people sought help from friends and family

Only 10.5% sought counselling or consulted a psychiatrist

78% shared their issues with counsellors or psychiatrists openly while 22% people think they could communicate better

Studying abroad becomes costlier with the rupee in free fall

Studying abroad has been a growing trend in Nashik for the last three years, but with the rupee in free fall in the last few days this might change soon.

Many parents, whose children are graduating from universities in the US told TOI that expenses has witnessed a steep price rise of 25% to 35% from December 2017 to September 2018.


More than 500 youths from Nashik are presently preparing for various entrance tests such as GRE, GMAT, SAT, TOEFL, IELTS to qualify for studying abroad. However, their parents are skeptical about US universities, as studying there has become more expensive by Rs 4 lakh per annum, as compared to last year. Engineering students prefer US universities, as they provide lucrative career options.

“The rupee has undergone a significant fall since last semester. Especially from April 2018, the fall in exchange rate is more than Rs 7. Each and every expense has gone up by 25%,” said Satish Gaikwad, whose daughter is studying in the US.

According to Gaikwad, he paid Rs 9.23 lakh as fees for the third semester. For the fourth semester, he will have to pay Rs 11.28 lakh.

He added, “Even if we consider regular hike in semester fees, the increased expense is mostly because of the rising exchange rate.”

More than 50% students going to study abroad take education loans. However, due to the sliding rupee, parents’ contribution to the down payment has gone significantly up.

Harshad Kulkarni public relations officer of State Bank of India education loan department said, “Generally, parents have to raise 30% of the total loan amount, while 70% is adjusted by the bank. If we consider total fees as Rs 60 lakh, then parents had to earlier raise Rs 25 lakh. At present, they have to arrange for at least an additional Rs 10 lakh or more.”

Due to changing scenario, the education consultants have started suggesting other options.

Rajan Thakur, a leading study abroad consultant said, “Master degree education is free of cost at many European nations including Germany. For those who want to study social sciences, politics, inter-cultural studies, we suggest Australia, New Zealand and Canada.”

WHOLE GRAIN AT BREAKFAST

This is how you can improve your child’s concentration
There is a reason why time and again we have been reminded that a balanced diet is a must to get us through the day. Not including proper nutrients in your diet results in a groggy, irritable mood and also impacts your productivity drastically. You may ask how does that happen.

Well, you are more likely to miss your deadlines while gulping down a lot of caffeine to up your the energy levels-- a double whammy.


If this is what happens to a full-grown adult, imagine what happens to a child when he/she is devoid of the nutrients that are required for proper functioning of the body?

Here are some easy ways in which you can help your kids concentrate better and thus, enjoy a piping hot cup of your favourite beverage in peace.

1. INCLUDE A WHOLE GRAIN AT BREAKFAST

The biggest reason your child stays unfocused and hassled is the lack of sugar in the body. Make this right by providing enough of whole grains in the breakfast.

You can include brown rice and millet. One very creative way of including whole grains in your kids' breakfast is to cook brown rice poha.

If time crunch doesn't allow cooked food, another brilliant way of including grains in meals is to add cooked grain in their shakes and blend it.

Including whole grains in the breakfast reduces cravings, and in turn, helps your kid sustain good 8 hours without the brain fog--all thanks to the sustained sugar.

2. NO SUGAR AT HOME

As you cannot monitor your children’s sugar intake when they are outside, it is advisable to control their sugar cravings at home.

One way of doing so is to condition them about the negative effects of sugar by writing it down and leaving these notes on the 

The Cambria International School earlier known as The Cambridge International School

Broad, balanced and cohesive curriculum is the need of the hour
Kalyan’s First School with an International Board
The Cambria International School earlier known as The Cambridge International School is the first and only exclusive international school in Kalyan launched under Pote Group umbrella in 2011. Pote group has been contributing and imparting quality education par excellence since 16 years and is committed to continue for generations to come.

International curriculum is relevant to the challenges of the 21st century and is known for entrance to first class universities throughout the world. The Cambria Inter-national School have opted for student-centered system with ample opportunities for learning, so that their students become smart, kind successful and polished global citizens.


For details contact:

The Cambria International School 8655651304 |8655805265 feedback.tcis@gmail.com





FROM THE DIRECTOR

“Most of today’s generation will end up doing jobs that we aren’t familiar about in the future” and The Cambria International School, has chosen the curriculum which prepares students for tomorrow.

The students opted for the Cambridge curriculum solely as it is holistic and student friendly. Broad, balanced and cohesive curriculum is the need of the hour. Parents today want their children to experience global platform from the very young age, they want them to be ready for the next century and Cambridge curriculum provides opportunity to lear n on a global platfor m. It completely gives an exposure to hone the skills of the learners from their prime years itself.

Bipin Pote,

Director - The Cambria International School

Kohinoor American School Khandala, Dist. Pune – 410 301

KOHINOOR AMERICAN SCHOOL
BEYOND YOUR BEST - Co-educational, Fully Residential IB World School, Khandala
The bedrock of KAS is the solid foundation of four pillars: Knowledge, Wellness, Service, and Peace. These virtues are inculcated in their students through the school’s  curricular and co-curricular activities. Each  student at KAS is considered unique and so personalized attention is provided to everyone.

The ancient gurukul style of education in India has been blended very carefully with the contemporary western style of teaching and learning so that it provides the best of both worlds to the students. KAS is a community of learners within a multicultural and multilingual family setting. Students occupy the center stage and teachers - The Gurus - are always available to mentor, encourage, support and help the students. KAS provides a holistic virtue- based character development programme which is aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals in order to prepare students to meet the challenges of contemporary world as well as the future.


The students and staff represent various countries of the world as well as different states of India. The school has a safe and secure campus through its 24x7 CCTV surveillance, health care and Wi-Fi while its indoor sports facilities make KAS an attractive place for students. The cafeteria provides vegetarian, non-vegetarian, western and Indian food. Separate residential facilities for boys and girls with attached washroom and AC are intended to make KAS a home away from home for the students.   The school intentionally maintains diversity by enrolling and employing students and staff from various countries.

A well equipped covered sports court area ensures that games and sports activities are not weather-dependent and this is what gives the school its special character.

For details contact:

Kohinoor American School, Old Mumbai – Pune Highway, Near Dukes Resort, Khandala, Dist. Pune – 410 301, India Mobile: +91 9324323003 | 8879646441 email: bryan. dsouza@ kohinooramericanschool.ac.in website: www.kohinooramericanschool.ac.in

Sacred Heart School

Sacred Heart School today is one of the most “Future disruption ready schools In the world”
The same 3D Scanning Technology used by great Italian car designing houses like Ferrari and Lamborghini is being used by Sacred Heartians! Clay models and real-life objects were scanned to create prototypes on Robotic Mill and 3D Printers. Also, faces of fellow students were scanned for bust modelling. The technology has opened a whole new realm of possibilities for the students.

Blended learning platform with a 1000 device Virtual Private Network, controlled by Sacred Heart’s in-campus server, enabling students ‘Anytime Anywhere’ learning around the world, even during holidays!


The DesignHub is a Gen-Z in-campus world class ‘School Owned Disruptive Digital Skills Lab’ run by Sacred Heart teachers and today partners companies like Samsung, ABB Sweden, MakerBot USA, MindBox Technologies to incubate new technologies and hardware systems for worldwide school learning markets.

Sacred Heart School today is a ready template and role model for schools worldwide in innovation and adopting disruptive technologies in every day learning at schools.

Disruptive Technologies like Robotics, Augmented Reality, Voice Recognition, Virtual Reality, Sound Engineering, 3D Printing, Laser Technology, Design Thinking, Virtual Private Network etc. has been seamlessly embedded into everyday curriculum.

Astounding light sculpture at Sacred Heart School using a simple cell phone torch attached to the head of ABB six axis robot and stimulated to a run a programmed path at hyper speeds.

Awarded cash prize of Rs. 300,000/- at the ‘Cleanest School in India’ by JFW and ET

Awarded ‘Green Schools of Asia’ award at World Education Summit 2017 DUBAI

Bagged 4 National awards at the All India Music Fest Pune.

Bagged 6 National awards at the National Child Drama Competition at Cuttack-Odisha affiliated to UNESCO

Sacred Heartian Snehal Pawar was awarded Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Award in Fencing High State award by Govt. of Maharashtra

Awarded for ‘Best Skills Development Initiative’ at Global Educators Fest 2018. (Udaipur) aaward 2018’

Received ‘The Great Indian Workplaces award 2018’

The prestigious Publication Scholarship 2017-18 was bagged by a student

For further details contact:

Murbad Road, Kalyan, Dist. Thane - 421103 Tel: 8605233000, 8605433000, 8605533000, 8605533000, 8605255500 Email: sacredheartvarap@gmail.com Web: www.sacredheartschool.in




ALBIN ANTHONY

Chief Operating Officer

Vishwajyot High School, (VJHS) situated in the heart of Kharghar, Navi Mumbai

Vishwajyot: Educational excellence with open learning environment
Vishwajyot High School, (VJHS) situated in the heart of Kharghar, Navi Mumbai stands tall as an institution of great repute with a vision to prepare global citizens with humanitarian values. At Vishwajyot, they strongly believe in this philosophy that, they cannot seek achievement for themselves and forget about progress and prosperity for their community. The ambitions must be broad enough to include the aspirations and needs of others.

In their endeavor to bring about progress and growth for their students also the future leaders of tomorrow, the school has crossed several hurdles and yet come out victorious without deterring from their focus. Vishwajyot High School (ICSE) was born out of a passion to educate children in India the right way. With a 12 plus year old legacy, and 6 batches of students passing out of 10th years, Vishwajyot has proved that through its unique pedagogy and methodology, excellent results,


over and above 100% first class can be achieved. Over their 12 years of schooling, the students have been infused with right knowledge, right skill and most importantly right values which are testimony to that fact that a school can develop children’s minds, bodies and hearts, to create the leaders of the future.

The school prides itself in designing an academic program based on creative independence and learning, by thinking and doing through a self-discovery method. They have a scientifically designed pedagogy in place that evolves with the child’s learning requirements and allows the child to celebrate every moment spent in school.

Right from the time of inception of the school in 2004, the management has always handed out top most priority to the safety and security of the students alongside continuous reinforcements for healthy lifestyle through variety of sports and excursions during the academic year. Pure academics can never be an exclusive success tool for any one. However, the only thing that can promise success in survival and progress even during drastic times, is the presence of variety of skill sets in an individual. Skills are for shaping material things so that they cater

more for the comfort of man; studies are for shaping attitudes, feelings, desires, emotions and impulses of man, so that they may confer more peace, more joy and more fortitude on man. The school is fully aware of the significance of various important life skills that a student needs to inherit from school, home and his/ her surroundings. In this regard they have various life skills that get delivered through the multitude activities that they conduct. The school’s consistent track record right from inception, excellent performance by their students in various competitions across categories, both academic and non-academic, bears testimony to the fact that learning the Vishwajyot way, free from the drudgery of conventional education system has a very positive influence on the child’s learning and understanding.

At Vishwajyot, they recognise the core strength of students lies in perfect symphony of the mind and body of each child. Hence, other than adopting a philosophy which makes learning a non-burdensome process, they strongly propogate active involvement of all their students in various sports related physical and mental pursuits. The school is bound neither by conventional methods nor universally standardized approach that supports teaching in one way only. An institution that stands by the principle – “If a child can’t learn the way we teach, then we teach the way they learn”.

It is the biggest truth that “sensitivity is a gift and not a liability and when they realize this is when they get their core strength.” The Waldorfian philosophy of the school ensures that emotional and physical sensitivity towards nature, towards environment and other fellow beings is being constantly introduced in various ways through various subjects to their students. This approach is necessary to create a more harmonious and sensitized community that our future will dwell in.

The three pillars of a school are its Students, Staff and the Parent Community. They encourage involvement of the parents through their acitive participation in various moments of Parent-Teacher Association by valuing their constructive feedback. They are approached before introduction of various crucial policies – academic and others, to be taken up by the school.

Vishwajyot is a result of one such open learning module created which has borne positive results of this method of learning. The obvious perceived benefits of this kind of learning are many such as; more flexible and creative use of instructional time that advantaged students. Knowing more about all the students and seeing different student strengths given the opportunity to view them in varied learning contexts. Greater shared ownership of students and student learning. Decreased student isolation, increased support and feeling valued by peers. Having more energy and greater enjoyment from teaching.

Vishwajyot’s real pride lies in the fact that they are totally confident that their students have in them what it takes to bring about the positive changes in the world in their capacity as achiever students, responsible adults and sensitive global citizens.

For more details: Vishwajyot High School Plot No-77, Sector-20, Kharghar Navi Mumbai-410 210 022-64512290, 9820587445 info@vishwajyot.com


Mediation & Yoga for students


Pottery activity with Students


Student Council Election- Secret Ballot Method


Trans-plantation activity to understand the Farming process


Baking activity to teach Heat