Lifestyle
Diwali Gift Ideas 2019: Gifts you can send your family, friends and loved ones so they have an eco-friendly Happy Diwali

Diwali, also known as Diwali and Deepavali, is one of the most-loved, celebrated, and awaited occasions in India all year. The festival of lights is celebrated with much pomp and fervor in the country and parts of South-East Asia. An ancient Hindu festival, it commemorates the time when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya with his queen Sita, brother Lakshmana, and Hanuman after defeating demon king Ravana. Diwali usually falls in the months of October or November, and this year, Diwali will be celebrated on October 27 and 28 respectively.
In India, people decorate their homes with earthen lamps or diyas, rangolis made with colour or more recently, with flowers, torans, lights, and few crackers. Diyas are lit in order to welcome Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity into our homes. Goddess Kali is worshipped in Bengal, and in certain parts of North India.
While traditional dry fruit or mithai boxes might be passe, here are a few gifts to buy your loved ones this year so they have an eco-friendly Happy Diwali.
Air-purifying plants:
The excessive pollution in our cities often makes it a task for most of us to breathe freely, but that shouldn’t be the case when we’re inside our homes. Buy air-purifying plants like Chrysanthemums, Peace Lily, Devil’s Ivy, Spider Plant, and others. They make for great additions to one’s living room and also are thoughtful gifts for your loved ones.
Stationery items with plantable seeds, solar power banks:
It’s one of the topmost gifting options in corporates and a gift of great value when looking forward to and working towards a sustainable future. Use and reuse the products you buy for mindful living in your present while securing a future for the next generation.
Food hampers:
Substitute the regular mithais or chocolates with healthier options like flax seeds, chia seeds, and others that one can munch on or add to their breakfast cereal, substitute for eggs in a cake, any bakery products, or smoothies. If they are coffee or tea fans, try adding chamomile for stress-relief, matcha for detox and weight-related ailments, or green coffee which has particularly become popular for its weight loss benefits just like green tea. Brands such as Greenbrrew, Urban Spices, Lipton, Tea Trunk are options you can try, via Amazon website or app.
Ganpati, Lakshmi Ji idols and silver coins:
Any Diwali celebration is incomplete without Laxmi Puja, which is a way to pray to the Goddess of wealth and prosperity thanking her for her kindness. Silver coins can be stored in clean boxes and can be reused for pujas year-on-year. In case of several smaller coins, one can also consider having them replaced for a larger one of bigger value.
Beauty and grooming hampers:
Something everyone will appreciate is a beauty or grooming hamper that complements their busy lifestyle. For women, makeup and grooming is an important part of their being because it’s all about feeling good first and putting their best foot forward daily, both at the workplace and outside. Men, too, nowadays take efforts towards grooming themselves. Products from organic or cruelty-free brands such as Forest Essentials, The Body Shop, Khadi and others are available individually or in hampers for gifting to the near and dear ones around you. If you’re looking to do a mix of various products that you know they’ll appreciate, add lipsticks and eye pencils in quirky shades from Kiko Milano, Revlon, and Lakme among others.
For interesting grooming products for men, try products from Beardo, The Man Company, Ustraa among others. You can find these on social media marketplaces, or the Amazon website or app.
Diwali for your pets:
Pets are family members afterall so why leave them out of any Diwali celebrations? Visit a store in your city and take your pet along for a tour of what may be their haven. If you’re in Mumbai, visit Shopawholic, Nutty’s Den, or Ohh My Dog; if you’re in Delhi, visit stores like Windsor in Khan Market, Heads Up For Tails, JawsnPaws among others to buy chewable dog toys, tasty snacks, and customisable collars. If you’re short of time, visit online stores of a popular pet shop via social media marketplaces or Amazon’s website and app.
That’s not all, these celebrations will continue when you treat your pet to a weekend of fun amongst their favourite ‘hoomans’ and their own kinds when Pet Fed’s 2019 edition begins in Bengaluru, New Delhi, and Mumbai soon where there’ll be fancy dress competitions, dog fashion shows and a lot more. If you’re as much a dog-lover as me but don’t own a dog, it’s a great place to meet several cute dogs of all sizes and cats.
Here’s wishing you all a happy Diwali and a prosperous New Year!
Books & Authors
Shaping Minds Through Words: Tadimalla H Mohan Rao’s Literary Impact

Step into the captivating world of Tadimalla H Mohan Rao, a multi-talented individual whose incredible journey spans Geology, professional service, cycling, and now, the realm of literature. Get ready to be inspired by his thought-provoking maiden book, “Are You Ready To Do So?”, as Rao takes you on a remarkable exploration of human ethics and values.
Picture yourself in the idyllic village of Tadimalla, nestled amidst the scenic beauty of West Godavari District in Andhra Pradesh. It is from this humble backdrop that Rao, a name that resounds with resilience and understanding, has emerged to capture the hearts and minds of readers. His book, “Are You Ready To Do So?”, is not just a collection of words; it’s an invitation to dive deep into the realms of ethics and introspection.
Rao began his journey amidst the wonders of nature, nurturing his fascination with Geology. As he honed his skills and delved into the basics of the inside of Earth and related processes, his love for the subject garnered recognition among his teachers and peers. Encouraged by family’s support, he embarked on the path of professional service in the coal industry (Coal India Ltd and its Nagpur-based subsidiary Western Coalfields Ltd). But Rao’s thirst for knowledge longed for more. He yearned to make a positive impact on people whom he meets.
Through his active association with HR, Rao dedicated himself to imparting his professional knowledge on coal quality, besides emphasizing on the need for adopting ethical practices and values. The resultant interactions with people from diverse backgrounds made him realize the enormity of the transformative power of ethics in shaping human behavior. In the meanwhile, “The Nightmare”, the first fictional work by his son Ravi Teja, then in his 10th Standard, was published. Inspiration drawn from his son, combined with the above profound understanding ignited the spark within Rao, who slowly started writing on ethics and values – the subject close to his heart. Besides cycling, his initial sporadic attempts at writing became his persistent passion in 2018 when he turned 59.
The result of his 3-year effort since then is “Are You Ready To Do So?”, a tapestry of 12 enlightening articles and 2 poignant real-life stories. In this remarkable book, putting his point straight, Rao unravels the complexities of human ethics and values. His words possess a unique ability to touch the hearts and minds of readers, inviting introspection and encouraging them to align their actions with ethical principles.
“Are You Ready To Do So?” has thus struck a chord with readers and critics alike, eliciting enthusiastic acclaim. Its thought-provoking content has become a source of solace and inspiration, as Rao’s eloquent prose gently nudges readers to question their own moral compass. Through his words, he instills a sense of empowerment, urging individuals to make ethical choices that can transform not only their lives but also the world around them.
As Rao continues to make waves in the literary world, his incredible journey serves as a testament to the power of passion, knowledge, and the belief in the transformative capacity of human ethics. With his maiden work, he has kindled a spark of change that transcends borders, bringing people together in a shared pursuit of ethical values.
Join Tadimalla H Mohan Rao on this friendly and inspiring journey of words, ethics, and inspiration. Let his story inspire you to reflect on your own ethical journey and embrace the power of positive change.
Books & Authors
Top 10 Books Of The Month | May [Editor’s Choice]

Explore the literary landscape with our monthly roundup, where we unveil a captivating selection of books that will ignite your imagination, provoke thought, and entertain you across a wide range of genres. As we embark on this literary adventure, we invite you to join us in exploring the most intriguing books of the month. Whether you seek heart-wrenching fiction, soul-stirring poetry, rib-tickling humor, enlightening health insights, or inspiring tales from the world of sports, this handpicked collection has something special for everyone. Prepare to be transported to extraordinary worlds and immerse yourself in the magic of words. Here are our top 10 recommendations for your reading pleasure this month. 🙂
1. The Human Side by Yash Mohanty Dogra
In “The Human Side” by Yash Mohanty Dogra, explore the seven fundamental emotions that shape our lives. Through captivating tales, the book delves into the intricate tapestry of the human psyche, seeking to unravel the essence of our emotional existence.
Discover the profound interplay between cause and effect, as each narrative illuminates the dual nature of our actions. With a quest for understanding, “The Human Side” challenges readers to confront their own emotional landscapes and uncover timeless truths that govern human behavior. Join this enlightening voyage of discovery and embark on a journey toward profound insights into the human experience.
2. Journey to Rebond by Krishna Mariyil
“Journey to Rebond” by Krishna Mariyil takes readers on a thrilling ride with childhood friends Akash and Karan. Their shared dream of becoming professional racers in the Great Himalayan Rally seems within reach until Akash faces a crucial dilemma. Caught between the risky allure of racing and the expectations of his loved ones, he must make a life-defining choice.
Join them on a journey that tests friendship, love, and family bonds as they navigate treacherous challenges. With sponsors withdrawing, rivals resorting to dirty tactics, and a failing vehicle, Akash and Karan must dig deep. Will the race crush their dreams or lead them to triumph? Prepare for an adrenaline-fueled adventure that leaves you breathless.
3. Maiden Innings by Kapil Pathare
Discover the untold story of Indian women’s cricket in “Maiden Innings.” While names like Kapil Dev, Gavaskar, Tendulkar, and Kohli dominate the male-dominated cricket scene, a resilient team of young women silently carries the torch for Indian women’s cricket. Their remarkable journey to the 2017 Women’s Cricket World Cup finals showcases their unwavering commitment. Coming from humble backgrounds, these women possess dreams as vast as the nation itself.
“Maiden Innings” unveils their indomitable characters, serving as powerful role models for women across sports, industries, and society’s marginalized sections. Delve into their stories and be inspired to transform your own life.
4. A Nutty Affair by Sithesh C Govind
Introducing “A Nutty Affair” by Sithesh C Govind, a remarkable foray into the groundbreaking genre of Screenella. This captivating blend of novella and screenplay takes readers on a rollercoaster ride as Manojan and Surabhi’s tranquil life is shattered by a legal battle fueled by their childlessness. With Manojan’s phobia as a hurdle, they confront their fears and secrets, buoyed by the unwavering support of loved ones.
This heartwarming and hilarious journey of self-discovery explores the struggles faced by a couple under societal pressure. Prepare for an unforgettable experience as “A Nutty Affair” delights, making you laugh and cry with its captivating tale.
5. Heal Thy World by Dr. PK Sasidharan
Introducing ‘Heal-Thy World’: A Manifesto for Health, Unity, and Progress. This transformative book uncovers the secrets of health care, addressing ‘Individual Health,’ ‘Social Health,’ ‘Healthy India,’ ‘Healthy World,’ and ‘ONE HEALTH.’ It targets doctors, policymakers, and health professionals, offering insights to build a healthier world. Neglected social health, disproportionate disease growth, and wealth distribution issues are explored.
The importance of trained family doctors, prioritizing health promotion, and social aspects of wellness in medical education and research are highlighted. Urging timely action, the book discusses democratic socialism as a solution and provides guidance for inclusive health policies. Join for a brighter future.
6. The Princess of Swarna-Sarsika by Asha Priyadarshini
Enter a world where storms bring not only chaos, but also transformation. In “The Princess of Swarna-Sarsika” by Asha Priyadarshini, follow Aadya’s mysterious birth into a wealthy family, igniting eerie events in the city. The golden pond at Kashyap mansion holds secrets tied to Aadya’s birthmark and extraordinary destiny. With beauty, mind-reading, healing, and foresight, she’s both revered and feared.
Drawn to the pond and Shiv-shakti temple, Aadya embarks on a perilous quest to restore the city’s lost treasure. Amidst faith, loyalty, friendship, and love, her visions become reality. Unveil the mystical city and witness Aadya’s mission unfold. What lies in store for her?
7. The Diet Mysteries by Shakur Tisekar
Are you exhausted by the overwhelming abundance of conflicting diet advice and the skyrocketing costs of medical treatments? Imagine a world where the solution to chronic illnesses is within reach, waiting to be unlocked through uncomplicated lifestyle modifications.
Brace yourself for a captivating journey as “The Diet Mysteries” by Shakur Tisekar unravels the remarkable narratives of ordinary individuals who triumphed against all odds, attaining profound healing by harnessing the power of nutrition and exercise. In this enlightening book, Tisekar simplifies the intricate realm of nutrition, exercise, and overall well-being, empowering readers to embark on their own transformative path to vitality.
8. Befarmaid by Dr. Shadab Ahmed
Discover “Befarmaid” by Dr. Shadab Ahmed, an insightful journey into India’s diverse civilization. From ancient times, India has thrived as a melting pot of cultures, languages, and peoples. Influenced by Muslim dynasties, Persian became the language of governance and high culture. Yet, as chaos enveloped the Islamic West, India became a hub of Persian literary achievement.
The seventeenth century witnessed the emergence of “Urdu” as a common tongue, uniting the Mughal Empire’s ethnicities. In this book, immerse yourself in the prose, poetry, and tales from the Mughal court—narrated by kings, emperors, saints, prisoners, outlaws, and the elite of Mughal India. Experience a vibrant era of creativity and expression.
9. We Got Your Back! by Dr. Rajeesh George
Discover the ultimate guide to conquering back and neck pain in the enlightening pages of “We Got Your Back!” Crafted by the esteemed Dr. Rajeesh George, a renowned spine surgeon, this transformative book is a beacon of hope for those burdened by the relentless grip of such debilitating discomfort. With a firm foundation in cutting-edge research, Dr. George presents a wealth of practical solutions and empowering strategies, enabling readers to triumph over their pain.
Whether you grapple with chronic agony or occasional twinges, “We Got Your Back!” embraces a holistic approach to rejuvenating your spine’s well-being, restoring vitality to your life. Prepare to embark on a remarkable journey towards lasting relief and renewed vitality.
10. Why Men are Suspicious of Yoga by Robert “Robear” Isenberg
Unravel the enigma behind men’s skepticism towards yoga through the thought-provoking work, “Why Men are Suspicious of Yoga,” penned by the insightful Robert “Robear” Isenberg. This revised edition comprises seven additional essays, each presenting a unique blend of humor and introspection. From tales of bravery and resilience in “Against All Odds” to poignant childhood memories in “The Car Ride,” Isenberg’s stories resonate deeply. The author fearlessly delves into personal experiences, exploring themes of family, self-reflection, and unexpected connections among writers. With his signature wit and candor, Isenberg invites readers to embark on a captivating journey that unveils the complexities of human perception. Prepare to be captivated by his literary prowess in this remarkable collection.
We hope you found our list of the top ten books for this month an exciting and diverse mix of literary treasures. These books offer a delightful escape from the everyday routine and a chance to explore new perspectives, experiences, and emotions. Whether you choose to lose yourself in the depths of a gripping novel, savor the rhythm and beauty of poetry, indulge in a good laugh, discover valuable insights for a healthier lifestyle, or get inspired by the triumphs of athletes, these books promise to leave a lasting impact.
Remember, the power of a book lies in its ability to transport you to uncharted territories, evoke empathy, and broaden your horizons. So, make yourself comfortable, grab a warm cup of tea or coffee, and embark on this literary journey. Open the pages, let the words work their magic, and allow yourself to be captivated by the enchanting stories and profound wisdom these books hold. Happy reading, and may this month be filled with unforgettable literary experiences that enrich your mind and soul.
Book Prices
The Human Side | Rs.178 (Kindle) |
Journey to Rebond | Rs.199 (Paperback) |
Maiden Innings | Rs.89 (Kindle) |
A Nutty Affair | Rs.108 (Kindle) |
Heal Thy World | Rs.425 (Paperback) |
The Princess of Swarna-Sarsika | Rs.249 (Paperback) |
The Diet Mysteries | Rs.288 (Paperback) |
Befarmaid | Rs.349 (Kindle) |
We Got Your Back! | Rs.1135 (Paperback) |
Why Men are Suspicious of Yoga | Rs.402 (Paperback) |
(Prices and availability are subject to change without notice.)
Books & Authors
The Healing Power of Words: A Doctor’s Poetry for the Soul

Dr. Shadab Ahmed With His Books. (File)
Get ready to meet the extraordinary Dr. Shadab Ahmed, a true gem of a person whose story is sure to inspire and impress you! This charismatic man hails from a remote nondescript corner of Bihar, India, but has lived in various parts of the country, including the magical and resilient North-East India, cosmopolitan New Delhi, vibrant Gujarat, and rustic Tamil Nadu.
Dr. Ahmed is a scholar of literature and poetry, with a voracious appetite for knowledge and wisdom. His interests are as diverse as they are impressive, ranging from Norse, Hebrew, European, Mughal, Russian, Iberian, Latin-Modernism, Metaphysical, Alhambra, Mandarin, Turkish, Persian, Indian, Baltic, Celtic, and Castilian poetry and literature. He retains an inner child and has a very combustible imagination that has fuelled his impressive collection of books related to world poetry.
But Dr. Ahmed is not just a prolific writer, he is also an accomplished Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon by profession, and serves as the “Ranking & Accreditation Officer” to Vinayaka Mission’s Sankarachariyar Dental College, Salem, Tamil Nadu – apart from being an Associate Professor (Reader) in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the same institution. He completed his undergraduate studies at the Buddha Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital in Bihar and his postgraduate studies at Meenakshi Ammal Dental College & Hospital (MAHER) in Tamil Nadu. He took a bold risk by shifting his academic path to college management and administration and has never looked back since.
Dr. Ahmed is known for methodically drafting policies for NABH, NAAC, NIRF, and AISHE, and implementing protocols of the Dental Council of India and other central/state organizations. He is focused on qualitative and quantitative institutional growth and has previously served as “Joint Coordinator” and “Administration Advisor” to dental institutions. His interests in OMFS goes into Head and Neck Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Cleft and Craniofacial Disorders, and Maxillofacial Trauma. His passion for education and growth is evident in everything he does.
Despite his impressive professional and academic achievements, Dr. Ahmed has never lost sight of his childhood dream of becoming an author. His inspiration to write books came from his father, who proudly declared that he would never be able to write a book. Dr. Ahmed has since written and published six non-pedagogical books related to world poetry, with several others in the press and under progress.
He devotes his free time maniacally to reading, understanding, and translating various canonical poetry texts and their interpretations, along with their “Pre-Text” in history and “Con-Text” in contemporary times and ages. His extra-academic interest bridges across Bards, Rhymes, Hymns, Epics, Odes, Elegies, Zajals, Poesies, Ballads, Sonnets, Quatrains, Verses, Couplets, Qasidehs, Muwashshahs, Masnawis, Haikus, Limericks, and Runes. His distinctive interest lies in European Literature and Poetry, covering the Jacobean Era, Elizabethan Era, Edwardian Era, Georgian Era, Stuart and Caroline Eras, Renaissance and Post-Renaissance Eras, and Mandarin Poetry, encompassing the Ming, Yuan, Song, and Tang dynasties.
Dr. Ahmed has several books in progress and manages to write in what little time he gets after his professional duties. Two more of his books are in press and slated to be released in the coming months this year. He aspires to open a bookstore someday, thereby completing the trinity of visions he envisioned as a child (Doctor-Author-Businessman). He believes in taking decisive risks and lives for the day. Dr. Ahmed is an extraordinary person who has achieved greatness in his professional and personal life and continues to prove himself the best.
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