The programme, anchored around a cycle rally through the stadium precinct and a community Zumba session, was positioned by organisers as both a fitness drive and an awareness exercise for the Commonwealth Games 2030 cycle. Officials said the format was designed to draw participation across age groups and uniformed services.

Chief Secretary leads from the front

Rajasthan Chief Secretary V. Srinivas cycled the 5-kilometre route alongside personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and other participants. "This is not merely a celebration; it is a meaningful beginning towards national health consciousness and our preparation for Commonwealth 2030," Srinivas told participants at the stadium, according to event organisers.

The chief secretary's participation, officials said, was intended to signal administrative backing for community-led fitness programming in the state capital.

Central forces, state sports brass join in

Senior officers of the central armed police forces were present in strength. CRPF Deputy Inspector General Brijesh and the Assistant Commandant of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) led contingents from their respective units in the rally.

From the state sports establishment, Rajasthan State Sports Council Secretary Praveen Gupta and Finance Secretary Tina Soni cycled with participants. Officials of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) also took part, with the agency's representatives encouraging youth participation and fitness outreach, organisers said.

Speakers flag community sport, public health

Speakers at the event focused on three themes: the role of physical fitness in public health, community participation in sport, and India's expanding competitive ecosystem. Participants told reporters at the venue that Jaipur and the wider state required a higher frequency of such open-access fitness events, particularly in the run-up to 2030.

The Zumba session, held alongside the rally, drew a mixed-age turnout and was described by organisers as a deliberate attempt to broaden the event beyond competitive cyclists.

Context: why Commonwealth 2030 framing matters

The Commonwealth Day 2030 theme reflects a wider administrative push across Indian states to align local fitness programming with the next Commonwealth Games cycle. The Fit India Movement, launched by the central government in 2019, has periodically used Sunday community events to anchor public health messaging.

Closing pledge

The programme concluded with a collective pledge by participants to support fitness, discipline and India's sporting ambitions on the global stage. Organisers indicated that further editions of Cycle Sunday would follow in Jaipur in the coming weeks. Story will be updated as further details are confirmed.

The event, according to organisers, is being positioned as a tribute to Rajasthani heritage and a platform for women's empowerment, combining a mass cultural performance with a parallel self-defence training initiative for participants.

Organisers outline three core objectives

Speaking at the poster launch, Sadbhavna Parivar president Manoj Pandey said the August 1 event would feature three key components: a record-attempt mass Ghoomar performance, self-defence training sessions for women participants, and a broader campaign to project Rajasthani folk culture on a global platform.

"Aapno Ghoomar is not merely a dance — it is a confluence of women's strength, culture, and self-confidence. Ghoomar is the pride of Rajasthan, and on August 1, Jaipur will show the world the strength of Rajasthan," Pandey said in a statement released by the organisation.

Organisers said the self-defence component would be conducted alongside dance rehearsals in the run-up to the main event, though specific training partners and venues have not yet been disclosed.

Choreography team and attendees

The choreography for the mass performance will be led by Rohit Sharma, described by organisers as a World Book of Records holder for Ghoomar choreography. He will be assisted by a team including Sonu Kumawat, Deepali Gupta, Seema Sethi, Vishal Kataria, Pooja Dabai, and Sonu Malhotra.

The poster launch was attended by Shivkanta Pandey of Sadbhavna Parivar, along with members Anjali Sisodia, Chaman Vijay, Aarti Mathur, Pratima Bhardwaj, Muskan Parwani, Sujata Sharma, Meena Singhal, Preeti Jain, Neha Gandhi, Meenakshi Jain, Kirti Sharma, Sapna Jain, Daulat Sharma, Jyoti Gupta, Kavita, and Ankita Mishra, the organisation said.

Context: Ghoomar and previous mass-performance attempts

Ghoomar is a traditional folk dance of Rajasthan, historically performed by women of the Bhil community and later adopted across the state's Rajput communities. It gained wider national attention after being featured in the 2018 Hindi film "Padmaavat."

Mass Ghoomar performances have previously been attempted in Rajasthan as part of state-led cultural promotions, including events organised under the Rajasthan tourism department's calendar. Independent verification of the proposed 10,000-participant figure for "Aapno Ghoomar 2026" was not immediately available, and organisers have not yet specified which record-certifying body — such as Guinness World Records or World Book of Records — will be invited to adjudicate the attempt.

What's next

Sadbhavna Parivar said registration details, the venue for the August 1 event, and a rehearsal schedule will be announced in the coming weeks. The organisation has invited women across Jaipur and neighbouring districts to participate.

This is a developing story and will be updated as further details, including official partnerships and government approvals, are confirmed.

The performance, presented as part of the cultural program organized to greet the Prime Minister, drew wide appreciation and placed Rajasthan's folk tradition on a prominent international stage. It underscored the deepening role of regional art in India's public diplomacy — a soft-power instrument that connects distant cultures through music and shared emotion.

PM Modi's appreciation and official acknowledgement

Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the cultural presentation, expressing appreciation for how it reflected the rich and layered heritage of Rajasthan through its musical rendition, according to event organizers. The moment resonated beyond the venue: Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma amplified the recognition by sharing details of the performance on his official account on X (formerly Twitter), bringing it to the attention of a wider national audience.

Such acknowledgement at the highest levels of government lends significant weight to the performance — and to the artist behind it.

A song rooted in Rajasthan's invitation to the world

"Padharo Mhare Des" — which translates to "Welcome to my land" — is among the most recognised folk compositions of Rajasthan, traditionally sung as a warm-hearted invitation extended to guests and visitors. Its selection for a diplomatic welcome ceremony is both symbolically resonant and culturally apt: a folk song about hospitality, sung to greet a nation's leader on foreign soil.

The inclusion of this composition in a formal diplomatic setting reflects a growing international appetite for India's regional cultural traditions — particularly as Indian folk music finds audiences far beyond its geographic origins.

Who is Manesha A Agarwal?

Manesha A Agarwal is a Jaipur-based vocalist with a distinguished repertoire spanning Rajasthani folk and devotional music. She has built a reputation for bridging traditional idioms with contemporary arrangements — an approach that makes her work accessible without diluting its authenticity.

Her catalogue includes well-known compositions such as Nimbooda, Banna Re, Malhar, and Girdhari Girdhari — pieces that have contributed to keeping Rajasthan's folk tradition alive and visible in an era dominated by mainstream commercial music.

Beyond performance, Agarwal is actively engaged in cultural preservation. Through the Arpan Music Lab, an initiative of the Arpan Foundation, she mentors emerging artists, offering structured training grounded in classical and folk traditions. The initiative is aimed at ensuring that Rajasthan's musical legacy is passed to the next generation with fidelity and care.

Folk music as cultural diplomacy

The Netherlands performance adds to a growing body of examples in which Indian folk and classical artists have represented the country's cultural identity on international platforms during official diplomatic engagements. As India's global profile expands, such cultural moments are increasingly seen as meaningful extensions of national identity — grounded, authentic, and distinctly regional in character.

For Rajasthan, a state whose cultural output spans centuries and whose music has always carried an invitation to the world, the echo of "Padharo Mhare Des" across the Netherlands is, perhaps, exactly that — an enduring, open-hearted welcome.

Jaipur: Ordinary stones, often overlooked in daily life, came alive with profound emotions at Rajkumar Gupta’s pebble art exhibition held at the historic Hawa Mahal in Jaipur. The two-day show, which concluded recently, left a lasting impression on art lovers and tourists alike by turning simple pebbles into vibrant narratives of love, motherhood, and human sensitivity.

The exhibition, hosted in the Exhibition Hall at Hawa Mahal, featured more than 40 meticulously crafted pebble artworks. From morning 10 AM to evening 6 PM, visitors streamed in to witness how the artist had breathed life into these humble stones using colours and delicate brushwork. What struck everyone was the remarkable realism and emotional depth — many found it hard to believe at first glance that the pieces were created entirely from pebbles.

Rajkumar Gupta, a legal professional by training, has pursued pebble art as a passionate medium of expression for several years. According to him, every stone carries within it an unspoken story and feeling; the artist’s role is simply to recognise and reveal it. This philosophy shone brightly through the displayed works.

The exhibition beautifully captured universal human emotions. One of the most touching pieces portrayed the tender bond between a mother and child, with the innocent face of the baby resting in the mother’s lap. Viewers often paused emotionally before this artwork, their faces reflecting both warmth and a hint of nostalgia. Another standout creation depicted the expression of love, evoking memories of timeless romantic tales. A third piece explored the thoughtful introspection of a young mind navigating life’s complexities.

What made the artworks truly special was the extraordinary level of detail. The stones were painted and arranged with such finesse that they appeared almost three-dimensional, drawing visitors into a quiet, reflective experience. Many attendees stood mesmerised for long moments, absorbing the feelings conveyed through these unlikely canvases.

The show also highlighted Rajkumar Gupta’s growing recognition in the art world. Just weeks earlier, in March 2026, his works had received widespread appreciation at an international art exhibition in Noida. Bringing the same artistic excellence to Jaipur’s iconic Hawa Mahal added a special charm, blending the grandeur of heritage architecture with the simplicity and beauty of pebble art.

Local art enthusiasts, families, and tourists who visited described the exhibition as refreshing and deeply moving. Several remarked that the display changed their perspective, making them realise that even the most ordinary objects can hold extraordinary beauty when seen through an artist’s sensitive eye. “It felt as if the stones were actually speaking,” one visitor shared.

The two-day pebble art exhibition successfully concluded at Hawa Mahal, leaving behind fond memories and renewed appreciation for this unique art form. For those who missed it, the show served as a gentle reminder that art has no boundaries — it can emerge from the simplest materials and touch the deepest corners of the heart.

Rajkumar Gupta’s effort proved once again that creativity lies not in expensive tools or rare mediums, but in vision, patience, and emotional connect. By giving voice to silent stones, he invited everyone to look closer at the world around us and discover hidden stories waiting to be told.

The exhibition may have ended, but the impressions it created will continue to resonate with those who experienced it. In a fast-paced world, such artistic pauses that celebrate simplicity and emotion remain truly valuable.

Jaisalmer/Ramdevra: Under the auspices of the Samajik Ekta Manch (Social Unity Forum), the historic 'Marwar Mahasammelan' was organized on Sunday at the holy pilgrimage site of Ramdevra in Jaisalmer. The grandest feature of this event was its historic 'Jal Samagam' (Water Confluence), where people from all castes and classes poured water brought from their respective homes into a single 'Sarvodaya Kalash' (Urn of Universal Upliftment) and took a solemn oath to completely root out casteism.

This was perhaps the first such occasion on the soil of Marwar where such a massive crowd gathered without the labels of caste or religion, engaging in deep brainstorming on meaningful societal issues. The main focus of the conference was centered on three key points: the eradication of unemployment, the abolition of casteism, and environmental conservation.

Historic Moment: 'Jal Samagam' and 'Sarvodaya Kalash' Around 1:00 PM, the most emotional and historic moment of the event, the 'Jal Samagam', was witnessed. Erasing the divides of caste, people from various communities brought water with them. All of this water was poured into a single urn as a symbol of unity and harmony, which was subsequently named the 'Sarvodaya Kalash'.

Industrialist Meghraj Singh Royal's Emphasis on Unemployment, Education, and Environment: Addressing the gathering, prominent industrialist and Chairman of the United Global Peace Foundation, Meghraj Singh Royal, clearly stated that unemployment is currently the biggest problem. He noted that meritorious children of Marwar scoring above 90 percent are left behind due to a lack of resources. The foundation is preparing such children for higher education and administrative services (IAS, IPS), ensuring that capable individuals enter the administration in the future to change the state's landscape.

Highlighting the immense potential for solar energy in Rajasthan, he suggested that unemployed youth should be allotted barren land and integrated into solar power generation. This, he noted, could generate crores in income and millions of jobs. He also described tourism as a massive source of employment. He elaborated on five key points:

1. Solution to Unemployment and the Solar Energy Model: In his keynote address, Royal explained that Marwar possesses limitless wealth in the form of the sun. Presenting a solid economic model, he stated that if just 10% of Rajasthan's barren land is given to the unemployed and farmers, 1 megawatt of electricity can be generated on 4 acres of land, yielding an annual income of ₹50 lakh. This model can provide direct employment to 4.5 million (45 lakh) people in Marwar and generate crores in revenue, with indirect jobs reaching into the millions.
2. Tourism and Revival of Traditional Arts: He shared his journey of putting Jaisalmer on the global tourism map in 1986 alongside Dr. Lalit K. Panwar. He explained how, starting from camel stables, he built a hotel industry that didn't just construct buildings but provided local Manganiyar singers, artisans, and dancers with a global platform and sustainable employment.
3. Scientific and Historical Explanation of Casteism: Launching a scathing attack on casteism, Royal said that in ancient times, 'caste' was identified not by birth but by skill and occupation (such as potter, barber, gardener). It was merely a work style, which was later twisted into the disease of 'casteism' by the British and politicians for their selfish motives. He compared casteism to the salty water of the sea, urging people to abandon it and create sweet water through the technology of hard work.
4. Tsunami of Technology (AI) and Warning of East India Company 2.0: He warned the youth that in the near future, technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) will snatch away jobs on a massive scale. Therefore, it is essential to preserve manual skills and traditional arts. Terming large corporate retail chains as the new "East India Company," he appealed to the public to stop ordering goods from foreign online companies and to support local traders and brethren instead; otherwise, 70% of the coming generations will be left unemployed.
5. Public Policy, Not Politics (Lokneeti, Not Rajneeti): Meghraj Singh Royal clarified that the purpose of this platform is not to form a political party. However, he called upon the public to send educated, capable youth who wear suits and ties and understand technology and the economy to the Legislative Assembly and Lok Sabha, rather than uneducated leaders.

Marwar's Cultural Heritage and Brotherhood - Arvind Singh Bhati: Arvind Singh Bhati, Student Union President of Jai Narain Vyas University, Jodhpur, stated that today's Mahasammelan is a collective effort to save Marwar's 'Apanayat' (sense of belonging) and love. Citing historical examples, he reminded the audience that Lord Ram ate the half-eaten berries of Mata Shabari, and the supreme societal positions given to Maharishi Valmiki and Mahatma Vidur prove that karma (deeds) is paramount. He recalled Marwar's social fabric, where from birth to death, every auspicious and religious function sees the equal and respectful participation of all castes like Nai (barber), Suthar (carpenter), Manganiyar, etc. Bhati urged the youth to avoid the 'digital cocaine' of social media and have the courage to call out what is right.

Solutions Along with Problems - Mukesh Meghwal: UGPF Manager Mukesh Meghwal, in an emotional address, shared that to prepare this unity platform, he toured the villages and hamlets of Marwar for three months, inviting all 36 communities. He emphasized that Shri Meghraj Singh Royal doesn't just point out society's problems but implements concrete solutions. Hotel management training for 100 youths at Suryagarh with a monthly stipend of ₹25,000, funding marriages for poor daughters, and providing free education for 700 children through the foundation are living examples. From the land of Baba Ramdev, he administered an oath to all attendees to strengthen social unity and brotherhood.

Hard Work is the Real Prestige - Sant Omdas Maharaj: Sant Omdas Maharaj stated that a person's prestige comes not from their money or position, but from their Purusharth (hard work/effort). Praising the selfless service of Shri Meghraj Singh, he remarked that he is 'Royal' not just on the outside, but on the inside as well. The saint honored the sacrifices made by the ancestors of the Meghwal community (such as Raja Ram Meghwal, Manana ji, etc.) for water and society during the historical construction of Pushkar, Pichola, and Mehrangarh. He called upon everyone to tear down the walls of hatred and be threaded together like beads in a single garland.

Example of Great Men and Youthful Energy - Moti Singh Jodha: Youth leader Moti Singh Jodha, in his impassioned address, asserted that untouchability and hierarchy were never part of our original culture. The chief guest at Lord Ram's coronation was Kevat (a boatman). Pabuji Maharaj was accompanied by brave men of the Bhil community, and in Maharana Pratap's army, Bhils, Gadoliya Lohars, and Hakim Khan Sur stood firmly shoulder to shoulder. He urged the crowd to stand with full strength behind platforms and champions of action who strive to advance education, employment, and the entire society together.

Confluence of Heritage, Culture, and Folk Art: The program was formally inaugurated by Umrao Singh Jodha and Raees Ahmed Malik. Impactful screenings of the 'Marwar Documentary' and 'Soch Documentary' took place. Youth leader Lokendra Singh Bhati delivered a speech on the glorious history of Marwar, while Madho Singh engaged in a deep discussion on 'Heritage and Culture'. Following this, Babu Khan Jinawati infused new energy among the attendees with his brilliant 'folk poetry' performance. Representing women's empowerment, Mrs. Asha Meghwanshi explained the critical 'Role of Women in Social Integration'.

Importance of Education: Educationist Prof. Amrika Singh, who has served as Vice-Chancellor of universities in Rajasthan, highlighted the pivotal 'role of education' in the upliftment of society.

Message from Former IAS Lalit K. Panwar and Prof. Shakeel Parvez: During the conference, former IAS and son of Marwar, Lalit K. Panwar, and the CEO and Academic Director of the Marwar Muslim Welfare Educational Society, Prof. Shakeel Parvez, delivered special messages via video conferencing. Both speakers highly praised the three main initiatives raised by the Samajik Ekta Manch and United Global Peace Foundation—eradicating unemployment, abolishing casteism, and conserving the environment—and affirmed that the foundation is doing excellent grassroots work in these directions.

From Integral Humanism to Sarvodaya: People of all religions and communities set an incredible example of unity and harmony by simultaneously pouring water into the urn placed on the stage. The clarion call of this Mahasammelan, rising from the holy land of Baba Ramdev, made it clear that Marwar has now taken a step in a new and positive direction based on employment, education, and brotherhood. Dr. Vikrant Singh Tomar stated that this urn is a symbol of moving from Integral Humanism towards Sarvodaya (Universal Upliftment). The Mahasammelan proved that if the entire society of Marwar unites to focus on education, employment, and the environment, the stigma of unemployment and casteism can be wiped out from Rajasthan forever. This successful Mahasammelan concluded with a vote of thanks by Durjan Singh.

Booklet Attracted Attention: A booklet distributed by the organizers caught everyone's attention. It revealed the truth behind the dominance and glare of solar companies in the region. It detailed two projects outlining a blueprint for unemployment eradication and environmental conservation, leaving everyone highly intrigued.

With the objective of providing a national-level platform to emerging models from Rajasthan, the first Jaipur audition of the prestigious beauty pageant “Miss Glam Rajasthan 2026” was successfully organized on Sunday at Club Teddy, Sodala. The show is being organized by India Glam Organization. The grand event is presented by Black Rock Hotels & Resort and Rajvesh The Royal Clothing, while First India 24, Anant Mahal, Ananta Spa & Resort Jaipur, and Club Teddy are the associate partners.

Show Director Kirti Tank stated that the competition will serve as a strong platform to identify new talents from Rajasthan and help them move forward in the fashion and modeling industry. Around 1500 models from different cities of Rajasthan participated in the audition, following the black one-piece dress code.

She further informed that the selected semifinalists will undergo a five-day special grooming workshop, after which the finalists will take part in a three-day Grand Finale event. The Grand Finale of the competition will be held on 5 April at Anant Mahal Resort in a grand manner. The top winners will be awarded three scooters, along with several other grand prizes for the other winners.

During the audition, Pawan Tank (Director, Miss India Glam), Jyoti Tank (Director, India Glam), Soumya Sharma (Miss India Glam Radiant 2024), Khwahish Saini (Miss India Glam International 2024), Sheetal Vishwakarma (Miss India Glam Rajasthan 2025), and Rashmi Rathore (Grooming Expert) were present as jury members and evaluated the candidates through various rounds.

Several distinguished personalities were also present on this occasion, including Ashwin Beniwal (Owner, Club Teddy), Ramesh Narnolia (Chairman, Rajvesh The Royal Clothing), Amit Sarin, Gaurav Mudgal, and Anshul Bhargava (Directors, Black Rock), Lokendra Singh (GM, Anant Mahal), Pawan of Neeraj K. Pawan (IAS), Mahavir Prasad Kharadi (President, RAS Association), and Pawan Goyal (Director, Safari Group).

Winners to Receive 3 Scooties and Several Attractive Prizes; Grand Finale on April 5

Jaipur: With the aim of providing talented young women of Rajasthan a platform to gain recognition at the national level, the prestigious beauty pageant platform India Glam Organization is organizing “Miss Glam Rajasthan 2026.” As part of this initiative, the official poster of the first season of the competition has been launched.

Reflecting the rich culture, tradition, and grace of Rajasthan along with the spirit of modern Rajasthan, the poster of Miss Glam Rajasthan was unveiled at Club Teddy by the club’s Chairman and business tycoon Ashwin Beniwal, along with the winners of Miss India Glam.

Speaking on the occasion, Ashwin Beniwal said that India Glam has today become one of the most reliable and prominent platforms in the country, and organizing a state-level beauty pageant like Miss Glam Rajasthan will provide a golden opportunity for girls in the state who aspire to build a career in modeling.

Kirti Tank, Director of Miss Glam Rajasthan, shared that the state-level beauty pageant is being organized with the support of Bharat 24 National News Channel, First India Rajasthan, and Black Rock Hotel & Resort Group. She said that the platform offers an excellent opportunity for talented young women who wish to pursue a career in the modeling and fashion industry.

She further added that Miss Glam Rajasthan aims to present the rich culture, traditions, attire, and heritage of Rajasthan in a modern and stylish manner. The competition will bring together talented participants from various districts of the state, giving them a platform to showcase their beauty, confidence, and talent while presenting Rajasthan’s culture to the world in a new and contemporary way.

The Jaipur auditions for Miss Glam Rajasthan will be held on March 15 (Sunday) at Club Teddy, Sodala (opposite Palika Bazaar), Jaipur, starting from 11 AM, where interested participants from across Rajasthan can take part.

The grand finale of this grand event will take place on April 5 at Anant Mahal, Mansarovar (Jaipur) and will witness the presence of several well-known personalities from the film and fashion industry, along with prominent figures from Rajasthan.

Interested participants who wish to take part in the competition can register in advance via WhatsApp at 8619189755 or through Instagram: @missglamrajasthan.

Tee-off began with 84 golfers in the morning session at 8:00 AM, followed by 72 players in the evening at 4:00 PM. A brief spell of rain in between added to the charm, creating ideal conditions for play. The unique format, featuring all Par 3 holes and limiting players to just three clubs (including a putter), attracted golfers across all ages and genders, including club members and special invitees.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Yogendra Singh, Captain of Rambagh Golf Club, said, “This was a new and exciting format for our members, and they are already eager for more such tournaments. Given the fantastic response, we are seriously considering launching Rajasthan’s first Pitch and Putt league, as proposed by the organisers and in high demand by our members.”

Mr. Rajan Sehgal, President of IGTA and mentor of Team Par 3 Masters, underscored the broader vision, stating, “Now is the time to promote shorter courses and encourage the wider public to take up this dynamic format. Popular across Europe, Pitch and Putt is poised to grow rapidly in India and beyond.”

Adding to the momentum, Munish Arora, Founder of Can and Able Entertainment and promoter of Par 3 Masters, expressed his excitement: “This format is the T20 version of golf is fast, thrilling, and accessible. We are proud to bring Pitch and Putt officially to India under the guidance of the global governing body. Stay tuned for a major announcement as we aim to put India firmly on the global Pitch and Putt map. With Jaipur’s successful 4th edition, we’re now ready to expand to more cities across the country.”

The Par 3 Masters tournament at Rambagh Golf Club wrapped up in grand style with a prize distribution ceremony that celebrated outstanding performances across categories.

Pushpendra Singh Rathore emerged as the champion in the Men’s Category, while Atul Poddar secured the runner-up position. In the Female Category, Nitika Jadeja claimed the title, with Monisha Samaria finishing as runner-up, marking strong performances in this debut Pitch and Putt event.

Adding to the competitive spirit, the ‘Closest to the Pin’ contests on two designated holes provided moments of high excitement. These were won by Col. S. S. Rathore and Rafeek Khan, who showcased precision play.

While no official hole-in-one was recorded on the designated challenge hole, a remarkable highlight came when golfer Haider Ali scored a hole-in-one on the 18th hole, a rare and celebrated feat that added an extra spark to the tournament’s conclusion.

Mr. Suman Billa, Director General of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, also graced the occasion with his presence. The tournament served as a curtain-raiser to a significant event, Great Indian Travel Bazaar, one of the country’s premier tourism events organised by FICCI in collaboration Ministry and tourism, Government of India with Rajasthan Tourism, highlighting the synergy between sports and tourism in the region.

The celebrations concluded with a captivating Sufi qawwali performance by artists from Punjab, enhancing the event’s festive atmosphere. Ensuring fair play throughout the tournament was former professional golfer and trainer Tavleen Batra, who officiated as the tournament referee.

Organized by Can and Able Entertainment, one of India’s premier sports and entertainment management companies, the event was presented by Indian Oil, Celebrations Partner Royal Ranthambore, OK Plus Homes, Mayoor School, IGP as gifting partners, and State Partners Flow Trade .

With its remarkable success, the Par 3 Masters has set the stage for more such innovative golfing experiences, paving the way for the future of Pitch and Putt in India.

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CAR-T Cell Therapy being done at HCG Cancer Center is proving to be a game changer for cancer patients.

This advanced technology is providing accessible and advanced treatment for serious cancers like blood cancer, lymphoma.

CAR T-cell therapy recreates the immunity to fight the disease by changing the patient's immune system.

Jaipur, February 19: Cancer is a serious disease. Cases of blood, lung, prostate, breast and cervical cancer are increasing rapidly every year in India. In recent years, many new technologies have been developed in cancer treatment. In this direction, India's first gene-based CAR T-cell therapy has emerged as a new ray of hope for blood, lymphoma cancer patients. This technology is not only effective, but it has also been made affordable and accessible, so that common patients can also benefit.

In a press conference held on Wednesday, experts from the Oncology Department of HCG Cancer Center discussed this advanced therapy in detail. According to experts, CAR T-cell therapy is a revolutionary step in the treatment of cancer, which regenerates the ability to fight cancer by changing the patient's immune system.

What is CAR T-cell therapy

This therapy enables the patient's own T-cells to fight cancer through gene editing technology. After this, they are put back into the patient's body, where they identify and destroy cancer cells. Experts believe that this technology is adding a new chapter in the field of cancer treatment.

This therapy is very effective in cancer

Dr. Naresh Somani, Director Oncology at HCG Cancer Center Jaipur and Dr. Abhishek Charan, Medical Oncologist, said that CAR T-cell therapy is proving to be very effective in the treatment of cancer patients. Recently, a patient has got life donation with this advanced technology. He told that the patient Neeraj (name changed), whose age is 63 years, was suffering from B cell lymphoma for the past few years. He took treatment from outside but after 6 months he was again affected by the disease. After that he consulted Dr. Abhishek Charan Medical Oncologist at HCG Cancer Center Jaipur and in his tests the patient was found to have stage IV lymphoma. After this the patient was treated with CAR T-cell therapy. After complete treatment, when the patient's PET CT was checked once again, according to the PET CT the patient is completely healthy and is living his normal life.

This is how the therapy works

Dr. Naresh Somani tells that in this therapy T cells are taken from the patient's blood and then with the help of a receptor the gene is combined with the T cells in the laboratory which targets a certain protein on the patient's cancer cells. This special receptor is called chimeric antigen receptor. In this, a large number of CAR T cells are modified in the laboratory and then infused into the patient. This therapy strengthens the patient's immune system to fight cancer. This therapy is the latest technology in the world, with which blood and lymphoma cancer can be easily defeated. This facility is available only at a few selected places in the world.

Dr. Bharat Rajpurohit, COO of the institute, told that HCG Cancer Center, one of the top cancer treatment hospitals in the country, is a large cancer treatment center in Rajasthan, where along with advanced and latest technologies, a skilled and professional team of medical experts is also present under one roof, which ensures the right care and accurate treatment of cancer patients. HCG Cancer Hospital is part of a chain, which has more than 24 hospitals across the country, where patients are provided with correct and accurate treatment through state-of-the-art technology, a vast network of skilled oncologists and new age treatment protocols. Bone marrow transplant facility is also available at this center.

Jaipur: The second season of the Rajasthan Achievers Award Show is set to take place on February 23 with a grand celebration. Renowned Bollywood actor Rahul Roy will be the celebrity guest at the prestigious event.

The award show aims to honor individuals from Rajasthan who have excelled in their respective fields and brought recognition to the state. Event organizers Narendra Kumar Gangwal and Rekha Mehra stated that the show is designed to inspire people and recognize their remarkable achievements across various sectors.

Several distinguished personalities will grace the occasion, including actor Anuj Chitlangia, singer Meer Zulfikar, dancer Chahat Sheikh, and writer MSK Pankaj. The show will be hosted by anchor Soumya Anand.

The event will provide attendees with a unique opportunity to interact with their favorite celebrities, share experiences, and learn valuable insights about acting, music, and other artistic fields.

This award show is not only a platform to celebrate excellence but also an initiative to encourage emerging talents in Rajasthan. By recognizing outstanding contributions in various domains, the program aims to foster motivation and appreciation within the community.

With its blend of entertainment, inspiration, and recognition, the Rajasthan Achievers Award Show promises to be a memorable event for all attendees, shining a spotlight on talent and success stories from the region.

Jaipur/ Delhi: As Germany approaches its Federal Elections on 23rd February, the Indian community of 282,000 people continues to play a crucial role in shaping the socio-economic landscape of the country. Among the prominent figures representing the Indian diaspora is Hargovind Singh Rana, President of the Rajasthan Association Germany, who has been actively participating in election campaigns, extending his support to the CDU candidate in Cologne.

In a significant move to bolster the Indo-German relationship, Ranaji recently had the honor of meeting Minister President of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), Hendrik Wüst, and engaged in extensive discussions with Member of Bundestag (MP) Serap Güler and CDU Köln Chairwoman Teresa De Bellis-Olinger. Their discussions centered on enhancing the integration process for Indian students and professionals in Germany, promoting skilled worker migration, and furthering Indo-German business partnerships to benefit both nations.

Hargovind Singh Rana  said beyond fostering cultural and economic exchanges, has consistently supported the Indian community in times of need. Whether assisting with passport issues, cases of death abroad, repatriation, or providing emergency support, I am there as a pillar of strength for the Indian diaspora in Germany.

A key advocate for promoting Rajasthan as a prime destination for investment and tourism, working closely with the Rajasthan Foundation. During the recent Rising Rajasthan event, he extended a warm welcome to the Hon’ble Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharmaji and Deputy CM Diya Kumariji during their visit to Germany, further solidifying Rajasthan’s ties with the German business community.

Jaipur. The Ellen College of Design recently hosted the "Ellen Design Festival-2025," a spectacular event that proved to be a unique experience for young fashion and interior design enthusiasts, as well as art lovers. This two-day festival showcased a remarkable blend of creativity and innovation, with young and experienced artists, designers, and creative professionals demonstrating their exceptional talent.

Fashion on the Ramp and Trendy Collections:

Fashion design students captivated the audience by showcasing a glimpse of their trendy collections on the ramp. Their diverse designs introduced viewers to new directions in fashion. The designer dresses created and showcased by young designers in the design exhibition also garnered much praise.

A Unique View of Interior Design:

Interior design students also demonstrated their creativity by crafting decorative items based on various art forms, which were the center of attraction at the exhibition. Furthermore, they designed furniture from waste material, presenting a brilliant example of "innovation from scrap," which was appreciated by everyone.

Expert Opinions and Entertainment:

On the first day of the festival, a talk show was organized with fashion designer Rikki Ingrish, in which she discussed the nuances of the fashion field and gave important tips to the youth. In addition, games, art installations, and a captivating performance by the Mumbai-based band Agnikula further boosted the enthusiasm of the young attendees.

Closing Ceremony:

The festival concluded with music and entertainment, where the Mumbai-based artist Rahul's Agnikula band mesmerized everyone with their शानदार (shandaar - magnificent) performance. This two-day festival provided a fantastic platform for young people in the field of design and art to showcase their talent, which will undoubtedly prove to be inspiring for their future.

Jodhpur, 5th February 2025: AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB), India’s largest SFB, inaugurates the two-day 3rd AU Bano Champion State Level Tournament- phase 2, at Umaid Stadium & Gaushala Stadium in Jodhpur yesterday. The inaugural ceremony was graced by H.H. Gaj Singh Ji, Jodhpur and Shri Dilip Soni, a special guest. AU Bano Champion is a strategic initiative of the CSR arm of AU SFB started in 2021 to promote sports for the underprivileged youth, fostering discipline, skills, and an organized training support at grassroots.

The rigorous selection process started 5 months back with village level competitions, followed by district level tournament and then the state level tournament held in 2 phases, Jhunjhunu (28-29th January) and in Jodhpur (5th-6th February). This tournament saw participation from athletes competing across Boxing, Wushu, Athletics and Football. 

Speaking at the occasion, Sanjay Agarwal, Founder, MD & CEO, AU Small Finance Bank, said, "It is a proud moment to see AU Bano Champion 3rd State Level Tournament Phase 2 unfolding in Jodhpur, following the successful completion of the first phase of Bano Champion State Level Tournament in Jhunjhunu. This initiative is a testament of our commitment to nurturing young talent, fostering discipline, and shaping future champions. At AU Small Finance Bank, we believe in the power of sports to bring ‘Badlaav’ by building character, leadership, and resilience. Since its inception, AU Bano Champion has been a guiding force in the journey from ‘Maidaan se Manzil Tak,’ producing over 55 National Level players. This tournament is not just about competition—it is about learning, growth, and unlocking potential. We look forward to witnessing the dedication and passion of our athletes as they take the next step in their sporting journey. 

Speaking at the occasion  HH Gaj Singh Ji expressed his greetings saying “ I want to extend my heartiest congratulations to AU Small Finance Bank for being consistent towards building the champions of tomorrow through their Bano champion program. I am truly delighted to witness the act of wushu by the kids of Jodhpur. The program is helping sports enthusiasts of the state to pursue their passion and fulfill their dreams.  Witnessing the girl’s participation in the program is not only making them confident but giving them wings to fly.” 

The two-day event will conclude in Jodhpur today, marking the finale of AU Bano Champion 3rd State Level Sports Tournament 2025. 

About AU Small Finance Bank

AU Small Finance Bank Limited (AU SFB) is a scheduled commercial bank and has established itself as the largest SFB in India since starting its banking journey in April 2017. Established in 1996 by Mr. Sanjay Agarwal, a first-generation entrepreneur, AU SFB boasts a 29 years-legacy with deep understanding of the rural and semi-urban markets and customer segments. The Bank operates a sustainable business model that facilitates credit to the unserved and underserved retail and MSME customer segments while providing complete banking solutions to its deposit and branch banking customers. As a tech-led Bank, AU has a strong digital presence with innovative products and services like 24X7 video banking, credit cards, personal loans, UPI QRs, payments, merchant lending, WhatsApp Banking, Chatbots etc. and its digital bank application AU0101 remains among the higher rated banking apps in India. 

The Bank operates from 2,400 banking touchpoints across 21 States & 4 Union Territories serving 1.1 Cr+ customers with an employee base of 49,000+ employees. As on 31st December’24, Bank has a Shareholders Funds of ₹16,602 Cr, Deposit base of ₹1,12,260 Cr, Total Loan Portfolio of ₹1,08,921 Cr and a Balance sheet size of ₹1.43 Lac Cr+. AU SFB enjoys the trust of marquee investors and is listed at both NSE and BSE. It has consistently maintained high external credit Rating and is presently rated ‘AA/Stable’ by CRISIL Ratings, ICRA Ltd., CARE Ratings and India Ratings, while the Bank’s FD is rated ‘AA+/Stable’ from CRISIL Ratings.

The Ellen College of Design arranged a farewell party for hoteliers and welcomed all in March 2024. The event saw the bid farewell to the outgoing graduates while receiving new set students. The event began with a ramp walk from the freshers who participated in the contest for the title of Miss and Mr. Fresher.

There were several rounds of competitions including walking, talent display, and interviews with the winners being chosen from among the participants for their performances. Miss Fresher was won by Lakshya Sharma, while the fraternity could cheer for Mr. Fresher, Akash. The occasion brought all the graduating students together to celebrate their dedication, punctual attendance in class, and contribution extended to college activities. Soumya Agarwal was named Miss Farewell, and Ayush Maheshwari was Mr. Farewell.

Designer Rahul Saini and brand founder Rupal Saini headlined the judges alongside Ellen Student Council sponsors Isha Sharma and Preeti Rakhyani that managed the event. The program ended with a farewell ceremony for the graduating students, who received titles such as Miss Farewell, Mr. Farewell, Proud Ellenite, and Gold of Ellen.

Director Ram Yadav warmly addressed the fallers welcoming the newly admitted students and wishing all the outgoing batches a bright and prosperous future.

Jaipur, 21 September: People for Animals Public Policy Foundation and Global Food Partners, in collaboration with Hotel Clarks Amer in Jaipur, hosted a Cage-Free Egg Meet. It successfully brought together around 50 attendees, including key representatives from international hospitality chains and cage-free egg producers across India. The event emphasised the need for the hospitality sector to prioritise sustainability and animal welfare, particularly through the use of cage-free eggs.

Jaipur, 10 September: To foster a deeper connection with nature, 25 students and 5 staff members from Umang recently participated in an immersive bird-watching experience in collaboration with Prakriti NGO in Kanota. The group was hosted by Kanota Camp Resort.

During the trip, participants engaged in nature walks, observed birds from various bird stations and took part in numerous nature-related activities. The trip significantly enhanced the students' appreciation for the environment, leaving them enthusiastic and inspired to explore more of nature’s wonders. This was informed by the Director of Umang, Deepak Kalra. 

-- Future sound technology was discussed, information about products was shared by giving technical demonstration.

Recently, Rajasthan Sound Owners Association's Annual Foundation Day Program "Sound Revolution 4" was organized at The Palace Resorts, Ajmer Road, Jaipur. Sound owners and association officials from across the state participated in it.

Deepak Kumar Sharma, President of Rajasthan Sound Owners Association, said that every year an annual meetup is organized for sound owners and vendors. The organization motivated all sound vendor traders for GST and awakened people through business unity, mutual relations, motivation. In the program, information about upcoming products was given by India's top brands and industry experts by giving live technical demo. People who came to the program were motivated through different activities, quizzes, information, live demo, songs, music, speech etc. Also, upcoming plans were discussed by the association, everyone was made aware of important and future information.

Dr. Pramod Chandlekar, Vikrant Jain, Anil Pawar, Puneet Chopra, Banwari Lal Sharma, Ashdeep Singh, Varundeep, Gaurav, Rahul, Akshay were present as guests in the program.

President Deepak Kumar Sharma expressed special thanks and gratitude to his team members and Jaipur Sound Association for successfully organizing and cooperating in this program.

The Rajasthan government organized a roadshow in Mumbai to promote the 'Rising Rajasthan' Global Investment Summit 2024 to be held in the capital Jaipur on 9, 10 and 11 December later this year. In this roadshow, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma signed several investment agreements and launched the 'Rising Rajasthan' website. The CM met several industry giants and invited them to invest in Rajasthan.

Inviting the industry giants, the CM said that all entrepreneurs should plant a garden of investment on the land of our country. He assured that all the necessary resources will be made available for investment and the state government will cooperate in every possible way.

On the decision of Rajasthan House, the CM said that the government has decided to build Rajasthan House in the capitals of all the states of the country, which will help the entrepreneurs there to contact Rajasthan.

Chief Minister Sharma assured the industrialists that the investment will contribute significantly to the prosperity and economic development of the state and this investment will prove to be profitable as well as important in sustainable development.

Film city to be built in Jaipur

Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma said that film producer KC Bokadia has expressed his desire to build a film city in Jaipur. The Chief Minister, showing promptness, sent two officers with him and the land was finalized in just 4 hours. This step will give a new direction to the development of the film industry in Rajasthan.

Apart from this, the Rajasthan government signed MoUs worth Rs 4.5 lakh crore in sectors like energy, cement, chemicals and petrochemicals, civil aviation and ITI upgradation. These agreements include big industrial groups like Tata Group, Adani Group, Vedanta Group, JSW Group, Dalmia Group and Star Cement.

Jaipur: The fourth edition of the Machhli and Vanya Prani Mitra Awards was held today at Hotel Clarks Amer Jaipur. The annual awards, presented by the Prabha Khaitan Foundation (PKF) and WWF-India, recognise individuals whose extraordinary efforts contribute significantly to wildlife protection and conflict management.

The Machhli Award was awarded to Mr. Dharmendra Singh Rajpoot, a forest guard from Karauli, Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve—the domain of the legendary tigress after whom the award is named. Mr. Rajpoot was honoured for his exemplary work in wildlife crime control and emergency response, which led to the rescue and rehabilitation of numerous injured or stranded animals. His innovative approach made substantial improvements in wildlife protection, community awareness, and conflict management. Mr. Rajpoot received a cash award of Rs. 2 lakh and a certificate of appreciation for his outstanding contribution.

The Vanya Prani Mitra Award, which recognises exceptional management of human-wildlife conflict, was shared by Mr. Dharmendra Panigar and Mr. Youdhister Meena. Mr. Dharmendra Panigar is a dedicated volunteer from Udaipur who has rescued over 3,000 snakes and various other wild animals. His work in minimising human-wildlife conflict and rescuing wildlife has been commendable. Mr. Youdhister Meena is a civil defence volunteer from Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve who has rescued more than 100 animals in the past four years, including pythons, vipers and nilgai. His efforts have been instrumental in reducing human-wildlife conflict in the region.

The Vanya Prani Mitra Award carries a total prize of Rs. 4 lakh, which was split evenly between the two winners. Each winner also received a certificate of appreciation.

All the awardees were selected by a distinguished jury, comprising Mr. Rahul Bhatnagar, IFS (Retd.); Mr. Rajpal Singh, IFS (Retd.); and Mr. Yash Shethia, Director of Wildlife & Habitat Programme, WWF-India.

On the occasion, Mr. Ravi Singh, Secretary General and CEO of WWF-India, said: “These awards honour the champions who are vital in ensuring the preservation and flourishing of our wildlife. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Prabha Khaitan Foundation for their partnership in these awards. This recognition will inspire the field staff of the Rajasthan Forest Department to continue their crucial work in protecting and conserving the state’s wildlife and habitats.”

“At Prabha Khaitan Foundation, we believe in the power of dedication and passion in protecting our natural heritage. These awards are a testament to the tireless efforts of individuals who go above and beyond to safeguard our wildlife and mitigate conflicts. We are proud to honour these heroes and remain committed to supporting initiatives that foster a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.” – Cathy Tongper from Prabha Khaitan Foundation.

The award ceremony also featured the screening of a special poetic composition titled “एक ख़त जज़्बात का” (A Letter to the Tiger from WWF-India). This evocative tribute to India’s national animal was composed by Shantanu Moitra and penned by Tanveer Ghazi. The video of the composition featured performances by Dia Mirza, Sania Mirza, Ranveer Brar, Viswanathan Anand and Shantanu Moitra, and the lyrics celebrated the spirit of harmonious coexistence between tigers and humans.

The PKF anthem—a musical marvel uniting India’s most melodious voices—beautifully celebrates the country’s diversity through a harmonious blend of musical solidarity was also played at the event, followed by an introduction from Aakriti Periwal, Ehsaas Woman of Jaipur, who provided insights into the Foundation and a brief overview of the two awards.