#design

Star Citizens

Code, Curiosity, and Courage: How Sreelakshmi Suresh Became the World’s Youngest CEO

Some children are born with extraordinary talent, and Sreelakshmi Suresh from Kozhikode, Kerala, is a shining example. Born on February 5, 1998, Sreelakshmi displayed a keen interest in computers at the tender age of three. While most children were learning to read and write, she was exploring the world of technology, experimenting with coding and web tools. By the age of six, she had already designed her first website, a proof of both her curiosity and her precocious technical skills. Her school recognized her talent early on. At just 8 years old, she designed the website for her Presentation Higher Secondary School, which was inaugurated by Binoy Viswam, Kerala’s Forest Minister, on January 15, 2007. This achievement brought her into the media spotlight and marked the beginning of a remarkable journey in technology.The Birth of a Young EntrepreneurBy the age of 11, Sreelakshmi had founded her own company, eDesign Technologies, a web design and development firm offering services like SEO, graphic design, and website creation. What makes this achievement exceptional is that she came from a non-technical family and did not have an IIT or tech institute background. With just a second-hand computer and unwavering determination, she began offering her services to clients both in India and abroad. Her early success caught the attention of global giants, including Microsoft, Nokia, and Coca-Cola, who recognized her skill and vision. Despite her young age, Sreelakshmi demonstrated professionalism and creativity that matched, or even exceeded, industry standards.Awards and Global RecognitionSreelakshmi’s talent did not go unnoticed. She has received numerous national and international awards, including the National Child Award for Exceptional Achievement in 2008. Other recognitions include the Golden Web Award (USA) and the Sixty Plus Education Award (Canada), highlighting her global impact in web design. While media sources have occasionally highlighted other young entrepreneurs as the “world’s youngest CEO” or “youngest web designer,” Sreelakshmi’s accomplishments remain extraordinary. Building a Career Without LimitsBeyond her childhood achievements, Sreelakshmi continued to pursue excellence. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from St. Joseph’s College, Devagiri, Kozhikode, balancing formal education with her entrepreneurial ventures. Today, she serves as the CEO of eDesign Technologies, guiding the company toward new projects while inspiring young minds across India. Her success story is a powerful reminder that age and background do not define one’s potential. With passion, hard work, and curiosity, even the youngest can achieve milestones that resonate on a global scale.The Global Impact of a Young VisionarySreelakshmi’s work with international brands and her recognition on global platforms underscore India’s potential to produce world-class talent. Her estimated net worth of $6 million (around Rs 51 crore) is a reflection of both her skill and the high demand for creative, innovative solutions in the tech industry. Beyond financial success, her story shows how youth can contribute meaningfully to society, bridging gaps between local talent and global opportunities. She proves that innovation is not the privilege of adults or those with elite educational backgrounds; it can come from anyone with determination and vision.Lessons from Sreelakshmi SureshSreelakshmi’s journey offers several important lessons for aspiring innovators and young talent. Her story shows that curiosity is the first step toward mastery. Starting at age three, her constant exploration of computers and coding laid the foundation for her expertise. It proves that age is not a barrier, as she achieved international recognition while still in school. Her achievements also highlight that resources are secondary to passion; even with a second-hand computer, she was able to build a global career. Moreover, Sreelakshmi demonstrates that education and entrepreneurship can go hand in hand, successfully balancing her formal studies with running a thriving company. Perhaps most importantly, her journey underscores how inspiration multiplies today; her story motivates other young coders and entrepreneurs to dream big and pursue their passions. Beyond individual success, her accomplishments emphasize India’s growing role in nurturing world-class tech talent, showing that innovation often begins at home with encouragement, opportunity, and self-belief.A Legacy in the MakingFrom designing her school’s website to managing a company with international clients, Sreelakshmi Suresh embodies the spirit of innovation, courage, and perseverance. Her story continues to inspire countless young individuals to pursue their dreams, proving that extraordinary talent can emerge from humble beginnings. As Sreelakshmi’s journey shows, determination combined with creativity can turn even the youngest minds into leaders, innovators, and role models redefining what’s possible for future generations.

23 Oct 2025

Star Citizens

A Rug, A Rain, and A Dream: How Kerala's Jamiya Joseph Won the European Product Design Award

At just 24, Jamiya Joseph, a textile designer from Alappuzha, Kerala, has carved a niche for herself on the world stage. Her creation, a stunning hand-tufted rug titled Gilded Oasis, has earned her the European Product Design Award (EPDA) under the Eco Design category, a rare and proud moment for Indian craftsmanship in sustainable home design. The design, both elegant and rooted in nature, draws from the emotional rush of the first rain after a long dry spell. This isn't just a rug; it's a story told through texture, color, and innovation.Designing Dreams: From Alappuzha to EuropeJamiya’s story is grounded in a passion nurtured from childhood. Her father, Joseph Antony, a retired teacher, played a key role in encouraging her artistic journey, enrolling her in competitions and courses that sharpened her vision. After graduating from NIFT Kannur, Jamiya found herself at the crossroads of creativity and tradition. Unlike many peers who gravitated toward fashion, she chose to explore the lesser-known yet powerful domain of home textile design. Her journey reflects a growing recognition that interiors, like garments, deserve artistic expression.The Making of ‘Gilded Oasis’: When Rain Meets RugCreated during her tenure as Senior Designer at Neytt Extraweave, the Gilded Oasis rug is a triumph of innovation and sustainability. Crafted using the hand-tufting technique, the rug is a blend of tencel, wool, and sisal materials selected not just for their aesthetics but also for their environmental friendliness. Tencel, a fibre similar to silk, adds softness and luxury. Sisal, usually rough and rarely used in comfort-based rugs, brings shine and earthy tones. The balance was achieved by increasing the tencel content, making the rug both elegant and pleasant to touch. This unique combination reflects Jamiya’s thoughtful design approach, where visual beauty, eco-consciousness, and user comfort coexist. At Neytt Extraweave, Jamiya was encouraged to pitch new concepts every few months. It was during one such session that ‘Gilded Oasis’ was born. With guidance from Nimisha Srinivas, the owner of the company, she refined her concept, gathered high-quality materials mostly sourced from East Africa, and submitted her work to the EPDA. The entire journey was not just about winning an award. It was about a young woman finding belief in her vision and being supported by those around her. Celebrating Sustainability in DesignWinning in the Eco Design category was no accident. Jamiya’s design philosophy centers on sustainability, innovation, and aesthetic honesty. In an era of increasing environmental awareness, her choice to use eco-friendly fibres like tencel and sisal stands out. More than just ticking the boxes of green design, she challenges the norm, repurposing a material like sisal, typically avoided in comfort items, and turning it into a feature. Her work speaks to a generation of consumers and designers increasingly focused on mindful living, where what we bring into our homes reflects our values. This is not Jamiya’s first international recognition. In 2023, she won the DNA Paris Design Award for her Vallamkali rug, inspired by Kerala’s lush paddy fields and the vibrant rhythm of traditional boat races. Her deep connection to her roots continues to shape her designs, giving them authenticity and cultural richness. A Proud Moment for India and KeralaJamiya Joseph’s success is not just her own; it’s a win for Indian design, for sustainable innovation, and for every young artist who dares to dream differently. She represents the vibrant creative potential of small-town India and showcases how regional stories can find global resonance when told through design. From the paddy fields of Alappuzha to the polished design floors of Europe, Jamiya Joseph’s journey is a beautiful blend of heritage and hope. Her rugs are not just pieces of decor; they are woven expressions of culture, climate, and courage. With her unique vision and relentless spirit, Jamiya is not just designing products; she’s designing a future where art, sustainability, and storytelling walk hand in hand.

18 Aug 2025

Star Citizens

Redesigning uniforms for the underprivileged

If you are thinking about what to do with the old school uniforms of your kids, without giving it a second thought you can approach these two ladies in the city. Vaibhavi Rege and Anjali Chuttar have given a new look to the old school uniforms and in return are giving the same to the underprivileged children who are in need of the uniforms. They started an experimental drive to donate school uniforms last year, under an initiative called ‘Art of Giving’, in which they encourage people to donate school uniforms to needy children, but with a difference. As per told to Indian Express Pune, Rege said, “The uniforms may be old school uniforms but we don’t give them away as it is. We redesign them and turn them into something else. The idea came to us last year when my daughter was in Class I and I wanted to give away her uniform but with dignity. I asked other parents from her school and collected and redesigned 25 sets of uniforms. Despite the last minute call, many parents responded and that’s why we decided to involve more parents. In the first collection drive itself, we collected over 85 sets of uniforms this year,” Explaining the concept further, co-founder Anjali Chuttar said the idea of refurbishing uniforms was not just to make the clothes more appealing to recipients but also to protect the sanctity of educational institutions.“The usual trend is to pass on the uniforms to the sons and daughters of our domestic helps. We do not believe in doing this as the logo of a particular institution is on the uniform and a child who is not studying in that institute on merit or otherwise should not be using a uniform as play-wear. Also, even if a child is using it as play-wear, it clearly shows it is a hand-me down and whether underprivileged or not, all children would like to have new clothes. Hence, we thought of this drive which is not just another donation drive but one that requires us to invest our creativity and time for a cause,” said Chuttar. The two women collect uniforms from people who want to give them with extra fees of Rs 70 per uniform or Rd 200 for a set of three and buy extra things from the extra money and refurbish the uniforms in the new look. In some cases, the uniforms have also been turned into tote bags or pencil holders to be given to older children. One can donate their uniforms at Vishrambaugh Society, Senapati Bapat Road, Pune.

9 May 2017

Star Citizens

The Whys and Hows

One Symbol, Many Stories: The Design Journey of the Indian Rupee

We use it almost every day, whether while reading a restaurant menu, checking a price tag, or looking at our bank balance. The Indian Rupee symbol is so deeply embedded in our daily lives that most of us hardly stop to wonder, where did this symbol come from? Who designed it? What does it mean? Behind this simple, elegant symbol lies a story of creativity, heritage, and people who poured not just skill but their souls into giving India its own currency identity. Two names in this journey stand out: Nondita Correa Mehrotra, whose thoughtful contribution was among the final five shortlisted, and D. Udaya Kumar, whose design was ultimately chosen as the official symbol of the Indian rupee.A Nationwide Search for a National IdentityIn March 2009, the Government of India launched a public competition to create a unique symbol for the Indian rupee. Until then, India used "Rs" or "Re" to represent its currency, just like many other countries. But as India’s economy grew, so did the need for a visual identity that stood tall beside global giants like the dollar, euro, yen, and pound. Over 3,000 entries flooded in from across the country from designers, artists, students, and professionals, all hoping to give a face to India’s financial future. Only five were shortlisted from thousands of entries.Nondita Correa Mehrotra: A Voice Among VisionariesNot many know her name, but Nondita Correa Mehrotra made history by making it to the top five finalists in this national search. An architect by training, Nondita is known for her sensitive, culturally rooted work that bridges tradition and modernity. She had the same rupee symbol idea five years ago, before the competition was announced. She asked a simple question: why doesn't India have a recognizable icon for its own currency? So she sketched a symbol of her own. A Devanagari raa crossed with two short horizontal lines near the top, and she sent it to the Reserve Bank of India and the Prime Minister's Office. Unfortunately, she never received a reply, but five years later, when the government announced the competition, it was nearly impossible to ignore that all the shortlisted ideas that were submitted were variations of Nodita's ideas. She had also resubmitted the design and made it to the top five spots in the competition. Her submission was a reflection of that very ethos, balancing India’s deep heritage with its global ambitions. While her design was not ultimately selected, her presence in the final round was significant. It marked a moment where women creators stepped forward in shaping India's national identity, a space too often reserved for others. She proved that design is not only about lines and curves, but also about ideas, integrity, and inclusion. The Man Behind the Symbol: D. Udaya KumarUltimately, it was D. Udaya Kumar, a young designer and academic, whose vision captured the nation’s imagination. At the time of the contest, he was a newly appointed faculty member at IIT Guwahati, where he now heads the Department of Design. His winning design: A graceful fusion of the Devanagari (Ra) and the Latin capital letter “R,” two scripts that tell the story of India’s cultural depth and global outlook. But Kumar didn’t stop at aesthetics. His symbol carried layers of meaning. The two parallel lines at the top represent the Indian tricolor saffron, white, and green, where the white is depicted through the negative space. These lines also form an equals to (=) sign, symbolizing economic equality and India’s constitutional values. The overall form maintains a balanced, modern look that aligns effortlessly with other global currency symbols. In 2010 it was adopted by the government of India.Today, the ₹ stands tall alongside $, €, and £ on the global stage.₹ was added to Unicode in 2010 making it usable globally across all digital platforms.A Symbol That Speaks Beyond EconomyIt’s about a country choosing to represent itself with elegance and purpose. It’s about a young academic like Udaya Kumar, who drew from his heritage, intellect, and pride to create something timeless. Today, the rupee symbol is more than a character on a keyboard. It stands on banknotes, billboards, advertisements, and apps. It is a bridge between the past and the present, between classical Indian scripts and global communication. In the end, the story of the Indian rupee symbol is not just about who won or lost a design contest. It's about how a nation chose to represent itself, how creatives from diverse backgrounds came together, and how symbols can carry the weight of heritage, hope, and harmony.

8 Jul 2025

The Whys and Hows

Discover Fascinating Details About the Best Plants for Better Sleep in Bedrooms!

One of the best ways to create a chic atmosphere in your bedroom is to bring the outside in with plants. Beyond looks, though, did you realize that having plants in your bedrooms has other advantages? Not only do they look amazing, but they also improve sleep quality, lower stress levels, encourage relaxation, and clean the air. Completed? Here, we'll go over all the advantages of common plants and offer some recommendations for the top houseplants for your bedroom. Are bedroom plants a good idea? There are several health and wellness advantages to having plants in the bedroom. In addition to offering a beautiful element that instantly elevates your area, keeping plants in the bedroom can: aid in improving your sleep Encourage calm Clean up the air Encourage originality lessen tension Generate more oxygen Introduce a new fragrance assist with humidity levels 1. Snake Plant The fact that plants naturally release oxygen may help cleanse the air and promote healthier sleep, which is one of the many amazing things about them. To get the finest air filtration, get yourself one or two snake plants. In addition to adding style to a bedside table, these plants purge the air of dangerous toxins, facilitating better breathing and guaranteeing a restful night's sleep till dawn. Best care advice: Although they can tolerate shadowed areas, these plants thrive in sunshine and are a great option for a bedroom. They do not require a lot of irrigation. Give a snake plant a couple weeks' worth of watering, letting the soil dry out in between. 2. Lavender Look no farther than lavender if you want to unwind. Lavender has long been known to be a sleep aid; this calming scent is frequently used in natural oils and pillow sprays to encourage sleep. However, why not choose to go one step further and decorate your bedroom with a lavender plant? You get a lovely plant and a soothing scent that lingers and encourages rest the moment you walk into your bedroom. To get the most benefit as you go to sleep, place it next to your bed. Top care advice: Lavender plants prefer warmer, brighter environments, so place it next to a window where it will receive lots of sunlight. 3. Vera montana/ Aloe Vera Aloe vera is another simple-to-maintain plant that has a positive impact on air quality, making it a fantastic option for your bedroom. Being succulents, aloe vera plants require little maintenance, which is advantageous if you're not experienced with gardening or find it difficult to maintain their finest appearance. Aloe vera plants, which have long been used medicinally, generate a lot of oxygen, which helps to enhance the quality and purity of the air in any space they are in. Additionally, the fleshy, fan-like leaves give the plant a distinctive, intriguing appearance that will make a big impression in your area. Best maintenance tip: Since aloe vera plants retain water in their leaves, they don't require as much water as succulents. In the spring and summer, you may give them some water every two to three weeks, and throughout the winter, they'll need even less water. 4. Spider plants For a number of reasons, spider plants have grown in popularity in recent years. For starters, they require very little maintenance as they can thrive in partial shade and just require infrequent watering. Two, they look very gorgeous! Spider plants look especially good in hanging pots because of their long leaves that sprawl out over the pot's edge. For a carefree bohemian bedroom vibe, hang them on curtain poles or walls using hooks or pins. Best care advice: These plants are an excellent low-maintenance choice, ideal for those of us who aren't very green thumbs! Choose a spot with medium light because they dislike direct sunshine, and water them only when the top two inches of soil feel dry. 5. English ivy Lastly, choose the traditional English ivy for a trailing plant that can withstand a variety of environmental conditions. This plant is excellent for a bedroom since it requires little care, produces oxygen, and absorbs air contaminants. It's also a very fashionable plant with striking aesthetic appeal. It's perfect for hanging from hooks or drapes, or placing over the edge of bookshelves, closets, or chests of drawers as ivy trails. It's also incredibly space-efficient, which makes it the ideal plant for any tiny bedroom! Best care tip: It's best to put English ivy near a window with indirect sunlight, as it requires a bit more light in the winter and a reasonable amount in the summer. This plant does best in moist environments but doesnt like overwatering. Now add some greenery to your bedroom: Adding any plant or greenery to your bedroom will have a great effect, even if many of these plants are recommended for bedrooms offer different health advantages. Plants may create a peaceful, "zen" ambiance in a space, which can improve sleep quality in your bedroom. Additionally, they add a decorative element that immediately improves the aesthetics of your bedroom. Win-win situation!

1 Feb 2024

The Whys and Hows

Good News

Wearing Our Roots: Nike’s First-Ever Indian Collab Puts Women and Culture at the Centre

When Nike announced its first-ever collaboration with an Indian designer, it felt like a long time coming. For years, India has been at the heart of global fashion inspiration its textiles, colors, and craftsmanship often borrowed by international designers. But this time, something was different. India wasn't just an influence; it was the creator. And that shift in power, that shift in storytelling, makes this moment historic.In the month of June, 2025, Nike officially launched a global collection co-created with NorBlack NorWhite, a homegrown fashion label known for blending traditional Indian crafts with modern streetwear. The collab is a riot of color, culture, and creativity—but more importantly, it’s a reflection of how Indian identity, particularly women’s identity, is being redefined.Meet NorBlack NorWhite: Craft, Color & Cultural RebellionFounded by Mriga Kapadiya and Amrit Kumar, NorBlack NorWhite (NBNW) is not your average fashion label. It’s a movement. Over the years, NBNW has carved its own path by giving Indian heritage crafts a bold, unapologetic twist—think neon bandhani, oversized silhouettes, and playful design rooted in deep cultural knowledge. Their work isn’t just about reviving old techniques; it’s about reshaping how India sees itself not as a land of the past, but as a hotbed of future-facing creativity. So when Nike came calling, this wasn’t just a collaboration. It was a conversation. A chance to bring Indian culture to the global streetwear table on its own terms.Bandhani Meets Streetwear: A Design Language of MovementAt the heart of the collection is bandhani, a centuries-old tie-dye technique that is typically passed down through generations. In this collection, it is reimagined across performance-ready tanks, tights, crop tops, shorts, and bags designed specifically for women and their daily movements. There’s a deep symbolism here: a craft born in community, now reworked for modern, urban, global Indian women who move through gyms, cities, and boardrooms with power. The bandhani isn’t decorative; it’s part of the story. It’s alive, in motion, and rooted in home. The collection also includes four new footwear designs: Air Max Craze, Motiva, Pegasus 41, and Calm slides. Each piece blends comfort with confidence and is designed to move with women wherever they go.Designed by Women, For Women: A Personal RevolutionWhat makes this collab feel so personal is the women behind it. Mriga and Amrit have always put women, culture, and voice at the center of their work. In a world where streetwear often caters to a male gaze, this collection stands tall as a love letter to women’s strength, style, and stories.“We hope each piece inspires women to draw into their own athletic mindset while navigating everyday life,” says Mriga. Whether it’s a jog in Delhi, a photoshoot in Mumbai, or dancing in a street in Toronto, these clothes are meant to feel like freedom. Amrit adds, “We want women to feel strong, stylish, and at home in their bodies, wherever they are.” There’s pride in every thread. Power in every pattern. The campaign for this collection doesn’t rely on models or actors. It features real Indian athletes, people who break barriers every day. Wrestler Anshu Malik, sprinter Priya Mohan, and cricketers Jemimah Rodrigues and Shafali Verma are all part of this powerful visual narrative. These women are not just wearing Nike—they’re owning their identities, performing on world stages while carrying the stories of their roots. Jemimah summed it up best: “Wearing Nike laced with Indian culture is a flex. It’s bold, rooted, and it’s ours.”A Moment of Representation and RevolutionFor millions of young Indians, especially women who grew up wearing Nike but never saw their own culture reflected in it, this collab is deeply emotional. It’s about finally being seen. Not through a borrowed lens, but through our own language, textures, and rhythm. The collection feels like a cultural reset. It reminds us that innovation doesn’t have to erase tradition; it can elevate it. And that style can be political, personal, and powerful all at once. The Nike x NorBlack NorWhite collection isn’t just a fashion drop. It’s a statement of identity, a celebration of craft, and a tribute to the generations that came before and the ones now shaping the future. It’s about owning your space, wearing your culture with pride, and moving through the world not just to fit in, but to stand out. And for the first time, Indian women get to do all of that in Nike.Where to Buy: Nike stores worldwide and online at nike.com

30 Jun 2025

Good News

INS Mormugao All Set To Enhance India’s Maritime Prowess

On Sunday, the stealth-guided missile destroyer INS Mormugao will be commissioned into the Indian Navy, considerably boosting the country's maritime dominance and defense capabilities in the Indian Ocean region. INS Mormugao is Project 15B's second stealth-guided missile destroyer. On November 21, last year, INS Visakhapatnam was officially commissioned into the Indian Navy. Project 15B's four ships were covered by a contract signed in 2011. The Project's four ships have the names of significant cities: Visakhapatnam, Mormugao, Imphal, and Surat. The ship, made of domestic steel, would be among one of the largest destroyers ever manufactured in India. INS Mormugao, named after a Goan city, is designed by the Warship Design Bureau, the Indian Navy’s in-house organization, and built by Mazagaon Dock Shipbuilders. A statement from the Indian Navy revealed that the ship is 163 metres long and 17 metres wide, with a displacement of 7,400 tonnes when fully loaded and has a maximum speed of 30 knots. According to the Indian Navy, the project has about 75% indigenous content overall. Major indigenous weapons like Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missiles, BrahMos, Torpedo Tube and Rocket launchers have been installed on the destroyer. Launched on September 17, 2016, the ship set off for its initial sea mission on December 19 last year on the occasion of the anniversary of Goa Liberation Day.

17 Dec 2022

Good News

Learn How Decorative Diyas Brighten Up the Lives of Children

Diwali spreads joy and excitement in the hearts of people and this year the festival of lights will also brighten up the lives of 900 marginalized children of Allahabad as funds from the sale of diyas will be spent on their education. Over 50 volunteers are actively working with an organization to make decorative and fancy diyas to bring happiness on the faces of marginalized children between 6 and 14 years in trans-Yamuna area. Ramakant Dwivedi who is the activity head of Prayag Vibhag said that they are designing and creating decorative diyas for sale ahead of Diwali to be sent to different parts of the city. About a thousand children are to be benefitted from the funds collected from the sale. The funds will be used to finance the education of children whose parents can’t afford to send their children to school. Dwivedi said that over 25,000 diyas have been packed in a set of seven and dispatched to different parts of the city. The organization not only funds the education of students from poor families but also runs special free classes for the children after school hours. The volunteers are also happy to work for the children. They believe that with such projects, more children can get quality education.

11 Oct 2017

Good News

Positive Reads

Meet the The Woman Behind the Design of India's Param Vir Chakra

In a lesser-known chapter of history, the prestigious Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military decoration, was designed by a remarkable woman. Eve Yvonne Maday de Maros, later known as Savitribai Khanolkar, left her native Switzerland and found her true calling in India. Her deep understanding of Indian culture and her passion for the nation's defense led her to design the iconic Param Vir Chakra. Let's delve into the inspiring story of Savitribai Khanolkar and her contribution to India's military heritage. The Birth of a Visionary Born in 1913 in Neuchatel, Switzerland, Eve Yvonne Maday de Maros embarked on a life-changing journey to India at the tender age of 19. Drawn to the country's rich cultural and spiritual heritage, she fell in love with a Maharashtrian army officer named Vikram Khanolkar. Their marriage marked the beginning of her deep connection with India and its traditions. Immersed in India's Essence Savitribai Khanolkar embraced her new identity and immersed herself in the history, mythology, and religious scriptures of India. She also delved into various art forms, music, dance, and linguistics, further deepening her understanding of the country's diverse cultural tapestry. Her insatiable curiosity and love for India laid the foundation for her future endeavors. A Nation's Identity Reimagined When the Indian equivalent of the British Victoria Cross was being conceptualized, Savitribai Khanolkar's expertise and in-depth knowledge of the nation were sought by Adjutant General Hira Lal Atal. Recognizing her deep connection with India, he entrusted her with the task of designing the country's prestigious medal of valor. Savitribai embarked on a creative journey to capture the essence of India's defense forces. Inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Savitribai believed that the great warrior king, Chhatrapati Shivaji, epitomized courage and strategic defense. To symbolize the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers, she incorporated Shivaji's sword, Bhavani, into the design of the Param Vir Chakra. The medallion also features the Indian mythical weapon 'Vajra,' representing the power to vanquish evil enemies in the name of righteousness. The Legacy Lives On On India's first Republic Day in 1950, the first Param Vir Chakra was awarded to Major Somnath Sharma, who happened to be Savitribai Khanolkar's son-in-law's brother. Since then, the Param Vir Chakra has been bestowed upon individuals who exemplify the values of courage and sacrifice. Savitribai's design continues to honor and acknowledge the valor of those who protect the nation.

14 Mar 2024

Positive Reads

Sea Lab's Innovative Design: Empowering Blind Students Through Sensory Architecture!

Sea Lab's Blind School is a unique and one-of-a-kind school for the Blind and Visually Impaired in Gandhinagar. It is a meticulously designed haven for children from remote parts of Gujarat. Initially limited by space, the school transformed with a new academic building featuring ten unique classrooms surrounding a central courtyard. This innovative layout aids sensory navigation, enabling students to map the premises through sound, smell and touch. What truly sets this institution apart is its ingenious design that caters to multiple senses, enabling seamless navigation and improving the learning experience for its students: Sight: Elements such as contrasting colors, skylights, and varying light intensities assist those with low vision in distinguishing different spaces, while indirect and filtered lighting minimizes direct sunlight exposure. Hearing: By employing varied heights and widths in corridors and classrooms, the architecture creates distinct soundscapes, aiding students in identifying specific areas by sound cues. Smell: Aromatic plants and trees strategically placed in courtyards enrich the sensory experience, aiding navigation through scents. Touch: The clever use of different textures in flooring and wall finishes, from rough to smooth surfaces, serves as tactile guides for students, helping them navigate and orient themselves within the school's premises. The flooring predominantly utilizes Kota stone, employing rough surfaces at specific entry points to signify classroom entrances, while smooth surfaces guide through common areas. Walls feature diverse plaster textures, facilitating identification of different sides of corridors and spaces. Sea Lab's innovative design approach not only caters to the physical infrastructure needs but also integrates sensory elements. This transforms the school into a haven of learning, empowerment, and inclusivity for visually impaired students striving for a brighter future.

2 Jan 2024

Positive Reads

Sole Story: Vijayapura's Skilled Artisans Keep Traditional Leather Chappals Alive

Vijayapura, a city in Karnataka known for its rich cultural heritage, is home to a dwindling community of traditional leather craftsmen who are keeping the art of handmade footwear alive. These skilled artisans, known as the Saptalkar family, are renowned for their meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. Basavaraj Saptalkar, a fourth-generation cobbler, passionately crafts each pair of traditional leather chappals by hand. He ensures that every step of the production process is executed with precision, resulting in identical chappals with intricate designs. The footwear is made from pure leather and features traditional patterns. These chappals, popularly known as 'Kera' or 'Mettu' in colloquial language, are highly sought after by farmers and shepherds due to their durability and ruggedness. The heavier variants, designed with thick soles and nails, are specifically tailored for traversing rough terrains. Surprisingly, these traditional chappals have also caught the attention of fashion-conscious youngsters, who find them attractive and unique. However, the Saptalkar family faces challenges due to a shortage of skilled labor. Despite growing demand, there are only a handful of craftsmen left in the district who continue this traditional occupation. The younger generation seems less inclined towards the labor-intensive work that requires patience and skill. Nevertheless, these artisans are determined to preserve their craft. With efforts from organizations like the Dr Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Corporation, they aim to promote the local brand and provide training opportunities to interested individuals.

16 Oct 2023

Positive Reads

Majestic Marvel in the Desert: This Girl's School Redefines Architectural Brilliance

In the enchanting Thar Desert, the Rajkumari Ratnavati Girl's School stands as an amazing creation, seamlessly blending with its arid surroundings. Designed by Diana Kellogg Architects, this awe-inspiring structure symbolizes a beacon of knowledge and education in the remote Kanori community near Jaisalmer. At the heart of this architectural masterpiece lies a sanctuary for young girls to pursue their dreams. In a province like Rajasthan, where the literacy rate barely reaches 32%, this school aims to empower young girls and their mothers, providing them with a brighter future while promoting sustainability. The visionary behind this exclusive initiative is Michael Daube, the founder of CITTA, who recognized the importance of granting the girls of rural Jaisalmer their fundamental right to education. Collaborating with the iconic architect Diana Kellogg, based in the United States, Daube embarked on this challenging project, overseeing its inception and completion. Crafted to withstand the extreme desert temperatures, the school incorporates innovative technologies that automatically regulate overheating, enabling it to endure scorching temperatures of up to 55 degrees Celsius, while keeping the premises cool. Kellogg conceived a stunning oval arcade which symbolizes the universal emblem of femininity, representing an infinity sign giving birth to an egg-like form. Covering an area of almost 9,000 square feet, the school features a curved design crafted by local craftsmen, who happen to be the fathers of the girls themselves. The entire structure, along with its architectural elements, has been carved from locally sourced yellow sandstone. With a focus on sustainability, rainwater harvesting techniques were implemented, and a rooftop solar canopy provides electricity for the building, further enhancing its sustainability. The fort-like structure of the school amidst the barren desert encompasses three impressive elliptical elements. The massive outer wall forms the backbone of the building, while an inner wall surrounds the classrooms and other areas, enclosing a central courtyard. Perforated sandstone walls protect the school premises from the scorching sun and desert dust, creating a shaded and clean courtyard where the girls can play even during the hot summer months. The interior of the classrooms exude warmth, with beige wooden doors, chocolate brown boards, and furniture that perfectly complements the overall design. Recessed circular spaces within the walls serve as artistic architectural elements, doubling as seating areas and leisure nooks for the girls. To add a touch of elegance to the school uniforms, renowned designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee drew inspiration from the intricate and enigmatic patterns of Ajrakh woodblock prints. The Rajkumari Ratnavati Girl's School represents a promising future for underprivileged girls and women in rural Jaisalmer. It serves as an architectural splendor in rural India, inspiring future projects aimed at empowering communities through education.

26 Jun 2023

Positive Reads

Akasa Air's Surprising Uniform Choice: Putting Employees’ Comfort First!

Akasa Air, a new entrant in the Indian aviation industry, has set a new benchmark in the airline industry by prioritizing the comfort of its employees. It is truly inspiring to see a company placing employee well-being at the forefront of its operations. The decision to make sneakers a part of the cabin crew uniform is a bold move, and one that has been widely praised on social media. The airline's unique approach to uniform design is commendable, and it is refreshing to see a company breaking away from traditional practices to prioritize employee comfort and practicality. Diksha Mishra, a Bengaluru resident, was impressed by Akasa Air's unique approach to uniform design when she noticed the cabin crew wearing sneakers instead of high heels during a recent flight. She praised the airline's decision to prioritize employee comfort and posted it on LinkedIn along with a photograph of an air hostess wearing sneakers. Her post received positive feedback on social media. Akasa Air thanked her for her post, stating that comfort is one of their core values and essential for providing excellent service. This philosophy is not only commendable but also essential in creating a positive work environment and ensuring employee satisfaction. It is heartening to see a company prioritize the well-being of its employees, especially in the aviation industry, where the job can be physically demanding. The decision to provide custom-made trousers and jackets using recycled polyester fabric made from marine waste further highlights the airline's commitment to sustainability and innovation.

23 Mar 2023

Positive Reads

How Stones Skip Across Water Scientifically Explained

What used to be an idle pass time for many now has a scientific explanation for it. An equation has been developed by experts to explain how stones skim the water. The mathematical model takes into account a variety of stone sizes and shapes, as well as the angle of the throw and the water pressure. The model can accurately anticipate how stones will skim through the water when they are tossed. The researchers discovered that while the larger stones can jump higher and evoke a "super-elastic" response from the surface of the water, the flatter stones can skim across the water's top for longer. Larger, heavier, and curvier stones can work just as effectively, though stone skippers seem to choose flatter ones. Pressure from below the water rises up when a stone makes contact with the surface. The stone will skip further if the pressure is enough and applied at the right angle, else it will sink below the surface. The findings are significant for aircraft design, notably for the landing gear of aircraft intended to land on water. The equations can forecast how different designs will perform during landing. Predicting thrown stones was only a pleasant byproduct of the researchers' work, which was to analyze the behavior of items that skim across the water.

16 Jan 2023

Positive Reads

Global News

Slim & Sleek: Unveiling the World's Skinniest Hotel Marvel in Indonesia

A unique architectural wonder is captivating social media's attention: the peculiar structure dubbed the "world's skinniest hotel." Nestled amidst an alleyway and residential houses in Salatiga, Central Java, Indonesia, this slender building has captured the world's attention with its innovative design and functionality. Originally a dumping ground, the site now hosts the extraordinary creation envisioned by architect Ary Indra for the PituRooms Project. The hotel, spanning five floors within a mere nine-foot width, ingeniously accommodates seven rooms. It also boasts of a rooftop lounge. Overcoming challenges posed by limited space, Indra strategically employed a deep foundation to ensure the hotel's stability. However, the real challenge lay in defying conventional hospitality norms favoring superlatives like "biggest" or "most luxurious." "We turned this limitation into our strongest asset, offering guests an exploration of micro-space, experiencing 'just enough' living and movement," expressed Indra, emphasizing the innovative nature of the project. With functionality at its core, the architecture features machinery and service rooms cleverly positioned atop the structure with cantilevered steel grating. Notably, the building incorporates gill-like features to facilitate natural ventilation. The hotel's ingenious design has stirred waves on social media. Users can’t help admiring the compact rooms equipped with amenities and captivating artwork. Beyond its novelty, it stands as a groundbreaking response to land-related challenges in small Indonesian towns.

23 Nov 2023

Global News

Radical Redesign of Homeless Shelters Brings Beauty, Comfort, and Hope to Those in Need

Homeless shelters are often associated with bleak, sterile environments that offer little in the way of comfort or privacy. However, a new trend in shelter design is challenging this perception, with a focus on creating beautiful, welcoming spaces that have a positive impact on residents. The new designs, which have been implemented in several cities across the United States, feature bright colors, natural materials, and private living spaces that offer a sense of dignity and respect to those who are experiencing homelessness. In addition to improving the physical environment of the shelters, the new designs also prioritize community spaces and social activities, providing residents with opportunities to connect with others and build a sense of belonging. The impact of these redesigns has been significant, with residents reporting improved mental health, increased sense of safety and security, and greater motivation to seek permanent housing and employment. These innovative shelter designs are a testament to the power of thoughtful, human-centered design in creating positive social change. By prioritizing the needs and dignity of those experiencing homelessness, these new shelters are helping to break down stereotypes and create a more compassionate and inclusive society.

6 Jul 2023

Global News