In the episodes of a popular podcast called ‘Careers Stories,’ Kapila Nagpal interviewed various people from the corporate world. The latest episode features Gaurav Marya, the Chairman of Franchise India. An exemplary leader with a strong track record of excellence in motivation and building new ideas. Gaurav Marya, is a highly remarkable entrepreneur nowadays, changing the face of franchising and entrepreneurship.

From his base in New Delhi, Gaurav Marya is revolutionising the world of franchising. His distinct approach, rooted in a deep understanding of the industry, has opened doors for countless dreamers and ignited their aspirations. Marya’s unique perspective sees entrepreneurship and innovation as universal concepts applicable at all levels. He advocates for cultivating an entrepreneurial culture and tackling every issue with a fresh, innovative lens.

Gaurav as a writer

Gaurav Marya’s influence extends beyond his successful ventures. As a prolific writer, he has penned three best-selling books that delve into the intricacies of franchising and the dynamics of running a business. Titles like “Take Charge! Building an Entrepreneur Mindset,” “Franchising: The Science of Reproducing Success,” and “It Takes Two To Tango” not only showcase his passion for education but also his commitment to guiding future entrepreneurs. With more books in the pipeline, Marya continues to inspire those navigating the business world.

Gaurav Marya is a beacon of excellence, consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation. He understands that sustained growth can only be achieved through continuous adaptation to market conditions. Under his visionary leadership, Franchise India has not just thrived, but has fostered a culture of innovation, propelling the company’s franchising business to unprecedented heights in India, painting a promising future for the industry.

However, Gaurav Marya’s impact goes beyond the success of his companies. He is a staunch advocate for entrepreneurship and regulatory support, recognizing the pivotal role of mentorship. Through various frameworks and programs, he is dedicated to fostering continuous leadership development and nurturing the next generation of business leaders, instilling a sense of hope and optimism in the entrepreneurial community.

Careers Stories is an intriguing and enlightening program hosted by Kapila Nagpal. In the latest episode, Gaurav Marya shared his personal journey, experiences, and invaluable advice that are set to revolutionise the world of franchising. His unwavering determination to drive change and innovation in the industry, coupled with his extensive knowledge. He also instils hope and inspiration in aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide.

As Gaurav Marya continues to chart new territories and redefine the boundaries of franchising and entrepreneurship, one thing remains abundantly clear: he does not only influence the future of communication but also the future of business.

In the recent episode of her acclaimed podcast “Careers Stories,” a highly reputed host, Kapila Nagpal, got together with Bollywood actress Meenakshi Seshadri to explore the subject of Bollywood. This episode gave us a unique viewpoint of the glamorous Bollywood industry, Seshadri’s story, its various problems, and valuable advice for young actors.

Mrs Meenakshi Seshadri, a well-known figure in theatre and cinema, candidly shared her experiences and life’s hardships in the interview. She is a beacon of inspiration for young dreamers, whether they are just starting out or already in the limelight. In the interview, she expressed gratitude to her mother for instilling a deep understanding of art.

Meenakshi Seshadri in America

Following the resounding success of Ghatak, a film that resonated with audiences, Seshadri made a bold decision to prioritise her family. She embarked on a new chapter in the US with her husband, a journey fraught with changes and the need to adapt to a new environment. Despite the common challenges faced by explorers of new spaces, such as acclimating to a different culture, it was her unwavering perseverance and hope that served as her guiding lights, helping her overcome these obstacles.

Through her gesture to provide the best for her family, Seshadri established Cherish Dance School; the school is his avowal of love for the arts and upbringing of young talents. Resilience and determination allowed her to cope with those bad circumstances. They made her thrive amid those tough times. Besides, her inner glow and unyielding spirit touched many hearts and lives.

Among the many qualities she possesses, Seshadri’s determination and ability to navigate through adversity have been instrumental in her journey. She imparts this wisdom to aspiring actors, urging them to work diligently and persistently, and to never abandon their passion in the face of setbacks and rejections.

The conversation then shifted to the evolving landscape of Bollywood careers in the digital age. The rise of streaming platforms and the evolving preferences of audiences have provided a new stage for Seshadri to showcase her versatility and range. She remains enthusiastic, emphasising that her return is a testament to her ability to adapt to the current trends and embrace innovation.

According to Kapila Nagpal’s charming interview with Meenakshi Seshadri, the glitter was a real hit. In addition, a pinch of information about various Bollywood professions was enclosed. It was an extensive talk that explored acting challenges and a love story that played out on the silver screen.

Srijan Keshari, an influencer cum traveller, stands at the forefront of storytelling with a blend of travelling. He is deeply engaged in capturing moments through traditional photography and innovative drones. Srijan explores the unknown beauty of India and captures the hidden gems. More than just a tourist, Srijan is drawn to connecting with different cultures and traditions. He is learning to embrace similarities and celebrate differences. These experiences help him understand humanity and the world around him.

Keshari’s vision is to seek out the extraordinary moments that define the essence of a place, capturing them through his lens and drone. His mission is to preserve these fleeting experiences and share them with the world. He also wants to inspire others to explore and appreciate the beauty of our country. He focuses on creating beautiful visual narratives that showcase the beauty of travel destinations, evoke emotions, and inspire others to embark on their adventures. Keshari stands at the intersection of creativity and technology, always exploring new ways to share the magic of travel with authenticity and impact.

Srijan as Explorer

Srijan describes himself as an “Explorer.” His quote reflects his ethos: “In every corner of this world, there’s a story waiting to be discovered.” Srijan envisions a future where more travellers choose eco-friendly options and seek personalised adventures tailored to their interests. He believes digital tools will simplify booking processes, while health and safety measures will remain a priority. Longer stays in off-the-beaten-path destinations will become popular, blending work and leisure travel.

“Explorer” manages online hate by keeping calm and not letting negativity impact him. When faced with overwhelming hate, he blocks or reports the offenders and concentrates on the supportive and positive parts of his online presence. Taking breaks and practising self-care helps him stay emotionally balanced. He understands that hate often comes from insecurity or ignorance. Srijan vividly brings the taste of India to life by sharing vibrant stories of his travels across the country.

Keshari emphasises the significance of community and hospitality in Indian travel experiences. Travellers are warmly welcomed into Indian life, whether they stay with local families, participate in cultural ceremonies, or join community-led tours. This element adds a unique dimension to the travel experience, creating connections and memories that go beyond merely visiting landmarks and attractions.

Babil Khan, the son of late actor Irrfan Khan, apologised to a woman for photobombing her during an event in Mumbai. He faced back against the social media trolls who called him ‘fake’ and questioned his modest and courteous behaviour. In a lengthy post, Babil explained on social media that people mistakenly think he is “pretentious” when, in reality, he is just “trying to adjust to fame.”

Babil posted on Instagram to address all the times he was tormented for different reasons: “All I did was say, ‘Hello, I’m Babil,’ and the way you looked at me changed.” I am aware that you perceive me as being false, thinking that I am conceited and acting modest when, in reality, I am certain that I know who he is. Alternatively, I could say that my apology is too late. It’s simply the way I was raised; I’m not strategically inclined.

Babil stated that perhaps people react strangely to him because he is different during moments when all the actors ‘look the same’. “I know it’s weird to see something new when all the clones look the same, but that’s how I am. I am who I am. To be completely honest with you, though, I’m just having trouble adjusting to my newfound fame. The ‘Qala’ actor wrote, “I guess someday it’ll pay. I put in the work and deal with the pain.”

The actor also talked about how the things that once made people love him now serve as the catalyst for their animosity. And while I respect your opinions and care about you, a change is overdue. You now use the same reasons you once loved me as justification for your hatred. However, I recognise you—the actual people, the everyday people, the ones who never changed lanes. I will always be there for you; you are my family, so I continue playing the game. This is our armed forces. Finally, Babil Khan said, “I love you.”

For those who don’t know, on May 8, Babil Khan attended the grand opening of a jewellery store in Mumbai. When he arrived, he was unaware of a woman posing for the photographers. Babil noticed her and became visibly embarrassed that he had photobombed her. In an online video from the event, he expressed his sincere regret to the woman. Social media users had mixed reactions to the video, with some applauding the actor for his humility and others criticising him for acting less than modest.

A movement on social media has emerged in recent days, directed towards celebrities who are perceived as being indifferent or even endorsing the devastation and deaths occurring in the Palestinian enclave as a result of the mounting protests against Israel’s war on Gaza. Blockout 2024, Celebrity Block List, and Digitine are the names of the campaigns that gained popularity following the May 6 Met Gala. The plan is to ban well-known celebrities from popular social media platforms like X, TikTok, and Instagram.

However, what is the whole point? Why are there similarities to the French Revolution? Does it hurt them to be blocked by a celebrity, and is the campaign progressing?

What is Blackout 2024? 

The Blockout 2024 movement is a digital boycott of prominent celebrities, ranging from Hollywood actors to social media influencers. It’s a response from internet users who believe these celebrities have either supported the war in Gaza or remained silent about it. Lists of celebrities and their companies to block have started to circulate among TikTok, Instagram, and X users. The goal of the action is to reduce revenue from celebrity social media platform advertisements.

Why did the Met Gala this year spark so much controversy over the Israeli-Gaza war?

This year’s Met Gala, which occurred in New York on May 6, ignited the Blockout movement. Social media users took offence when pictures of the opulently attired celebrities from the yearly fundraiser appeared online. They drew attention to the fact that some of these celebrities had never commented on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where Israel’s constant bombardment has killed over 35,000 people, the majority of them women and children, or made any remarks on social media. 

The moment  “let them eat cake.”

A video of TikTok influencer Haley Kalil lip-syncing the phrase “Let them eat cake” outside the Met Gala went viral on May 7. On TikTok, Kalil has 9.9 million followers under the handle @haleyybaylee. 

These famous remarks, frequently credited to Marie Antoinette, the queen of France during the French Revolution, have come to represent an elite so cut off from the people’s everyday lives that they can’t even find bread and instead recommend cake as a substitute. The starvation crisis in Gaza was a backdrop for Kalil’s video, which incited anger. Over the seven months of the war, there has been an increase in food insecurity.

The head of the World Food Programme (WFP), Cindy McCain, stated in a news interview on May 4, just two days before the Met Gala, that a “full-blown famine” is occurring in northern Gaza.

On May 10, Kalil posted an apology video to her TikTok channel. She said she only participated in the event as an E! News host and had not received a formal invitation to the Met Gala. She used the fact that the audio was trending on TikTok as justification for using it.

When asked in the apology video why she is not discussing what is happening in Gaza, she responded, “I am not informed enough to talk about it in a meaningful or educational way.” In the video, she made no mention of “Palestine,” “Gaza,” or “Israel.”

What is the impact on a celebrity of being blocked?

In addition to Kalil, notable people on the blocklists are American actors Zendaya and Noah Schnapp, American singer Taylor Swift, British singer Harry Styles, Israeli actor and former soldier Gal Gadot, and American media personality Kim Kardashian. Experts have stated that blocking is a more successful protest tactic than unfollowing, despite previous online movements to unfollow some celebrities who are currently blocked.

Eddy Borges-Rey, an associate professor in residence at Northwestern University in Qatar, told Al Jazeera that unfollowing a celebrity has little impact on their total audience and engagement metrics. Borges-Rey’s study examines algorithms and social media.

He explained that unfollowing a celebrity just results in them no longer appearing in the user’s feed. “Social media celebrities heavily rely on high visibility and engagement to attract and maintain advertising deals,” he said. However, the content can still appear inadvertently on their search pages or algorithm-driven feeds, like the “For You” pages on TikTok and X or the Instagram Explore page.

The class 12th exam results were released today, and some students are stressed because a few did not get good marks, and at the same time, a few didn’t have a clear vision for the next steps after the results. Their would-be family pressure, relatives’ pressure, and the student’s heart palpitation journey start from there only. Feeling stressed about your exam results is a completely normal reaction. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone in this experience. However, since you cannot change the outcome, stress will not help. Instead, take steps after the test to relax, reward yourself, and spend time with good friends.

Here is the list of activities or actions that can help Stop Stressing over CBSE 12th Board Exam Results: 

Introspection: Give yourself space, forget about the exam results and consequences, and stay alone to analyse yourself. Go for a walk alone or sit in a room alone—anything that can help you attain peace and solace. 

Stop Comparison Again, it is very common for students to start comparing themselves with their results and decisions. Everyone has their own goals; thus, it is completely wrong to compare yourself to others. You might begin to stress over not figuring things out easily like your friends. Stop comparing; instead, congratulate yourself for what you did well and learn from the areas where you think you could have done better. 

Avoid ruminating about your performance.

Ruminating refers to repetitive or fixated thinking about unpleasant events. Unfortunately, rumination can lead to depression and anxiety. If you are contemplating your performance, try the following steps: Identify your fear. What scares you? Are you concerned that your performance will affect your college chances? Journalling can help you pinpoint your fear. Ponder the worst-case scenario. Can you handle failing? Usually, the answer is yes. Realising you could handle the worst-case scenario removes the power from your initial worry. Realise what you cannot control. You cannot control your results. Stop trying.

Turn mistakes into learning moments. What can you do to improve? Work on the improvement side. If you’re at university, visit the writing centre. Practice mindfulness. Forget the past and try to stay focused on the present. Look around you while you walk (versus at your smartphone). Breathe in the scents.

Honour your efforts by treating yourself. Do something enjoyable after the test. You can distract yourself from the test by going to a favourite restaurant or store, taking a leisurely stroll, or treating yourself. You can also read a non-academic book or take a relaxing bath.

Manoj and Anita Chansoria, relatives of actor Kartik Aaryan, were among the sixteen victims who perished in Monday’s hoarding collapse in Mumbai’s Ghatkopar neighbourhood. On Wednesday, two days later, their “almost decomposed” bodies were found. The couple travelled to Mumbai for a US visa to visit their son Yash. When their son realised their phones were out of reach and called local friends and authorities, their bodies were discovered.

In March, Manoj, 60, retired as Air Traffic Control (ATC) general manager. He was visiting Mumbai from Madhya Pradesh with his wife Anita, 59. Manoj’s phone went out of reach on Monday afternoon, and soon, Yash contacted his father’s former colleagues in the city to help him trace them. Manoj had been stationed in Mumbai for a year before his retirement. Manoj’s colleagues, along with Mumbai Police, managed to track their phone and found their last location to be in Ghatkopar near the Eastern Express Highway.

The bodies of the couple were discovered inside their car, which had been crushed beneath a 250-tonne hoarding that strong winds had brought down. Their son left the United States as soon as he learned that his parents were missing on Monday. A family friend told The Indian Express that their last ceremonies were held at a crematorium in Sahar on Thursday. Their car was “almost flattened due to the weight and pressure of the girder,” an official told the publication. To remove the two victims’ “almost decomposed” remains, they had to chop through the roof and car doors.

When an illegal hoarding measuring 120 by 120 feet collapsed on the road, sixteen people lost their lives. The hoarding could not have been larger than 40 by 40 feet. The owner of the hoarding that crashed from Udaipur, Bhavesh Prabhudas Bhinde, has been taken into custody by the police.

A man complained that his “religious sentiments were hurt” when he supposedly found a piece of chicken in a plate of paneer biryani that he had ordered from a Pune restaurant using Zomato. He posted a picture and video of the dish on X along with a complaint about it, claiming to have found chicken pieces in it. Pankaj Shukla claimed that while ordering paneer biryani from PK Biryani House in Karve Nagar, Pune, he found a piece of chicken. He argued that the event hurt his “religious sentiments” because he is a vegetarian, even though he received a refund.I’m a vegetarian, so when I ordered paneer biryani from PK Biryani House Karve Nagar Pune, Maharashtra, I discovered a piece of chicken in it. I already received a refund, but this is still wrong because I’m a devout person, and it has offended my religious feelings, Pankaj wrote in his post.

Zomato reactions  In response to Pankaj’s post, Zomato’s official customer care account asked him for more information so that it could be looked into further. “

Hello Pankaj, protecting everyone’s feelings is our top priority. We never compromise on that. To help us check this, please send us a direct message with your order ID or registered phone number, according to Zomato.

Such incidents usually make news for food delivery platforms and airlines. Zomato came under fire in March after a user claimed on X that their vegetarian order had been delivered with chicken. To fully investigate the error and offer its apologies, the delivery platform asked for the user’s registered phone number. “People who are giving gyaan to order from non-vegetarian restaurants, that PK Biriyani is serving veg food as well, correct?” a user asked in the comments section. If this is the case, anyone who is not even religious is free to order a vegetarian meal, but it is illegal for them to bite into a piece of chicken.”Even though I had pre-ordered an Indian vegetarian meal on @emirates from Los Angeles to Dubai, I was served salmon.” Despite being jet-lagged, I asked the thankfully cautious air host what it was. It’s salmon, and it tastes great, he said. Having been a vegetarian, my religious beliefs were offended,” wrote a different user.”Errors do occur in busy, high-pressure kitchens. The pressure to serve food on time is only known to the kitchen cooks. A user commented, “If you are so religious, you shouldn’t have ordered from a non-vegetarian restaurant.” “I also faced the same issue 2 years back .. they have delivered chicken curry, and zomato has called me and just expressed sorry only ..being vegetarian, I was very upset,” stated another.

In the ever-evolving world of construction, one name has risen to prominence through sheer determination, innovative thinking, and a profound commitment to social welfare—Abhishek Kumar Tripathi. From his distinguished career in the Indian Air Force to his transformative impact on North India’s construction industry, Tripathi’s journey is a remarkable tale of ambition, leadership, and philanthropy. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he is also a dedicated family man, striking a perfect balance between his personal and professional life.

Abhishek Kumar Tripathi: Early Life and Military Service

Born on July 15, 1984, in the historic city of Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh, Abhishek Kumar Tripathi’s early life was imbued with values of integrity, discipline, and a sense of duty. Excelling academically, he pursued his passion for service by joining the Indian Air Force in 2001. Over the next two decades, Tripathi served his nation with honour, earning accolades and recognition for his unwavering commitment and exceptional performance.

Transition to Entrepreneurship:

Driven by a desire to make a lasting impact beyond his military service, Tripathi ventured into the world of entrepreneurship in 2022. Leveraging his extensive knowledge and experience, he founded MG Construction and General Order Supplier, an ISO certified company in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Arts, a degree in Law, and an MBA in Material Management, Tripathi’s academic background laid a strong foundation for his entrepreneurial pursuits.

Family and Personal Life:

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Abhishek Kumar Tripathi is a devoted family man. He is married to Pallavi Shukla, a dedicated music teacher with the Mahila Kalyan Vibhag since 2008. Their marriage, which began on January 23, 2011, has been a strong partnership built on mutual respect and shared values. Together, they have two sons, Nilaksh Tripathi and Vedant Tripathi. The Tripathi family resides in Lucknow, where they actively participate in community and cultural activities, further reflecting their commitment to social values and community well-being.

Balancing Family and Business:

Tripathi’s ability to balance his demanding career with his family life is truly commendable. Despite his busy schedule, he ensures that he spends quality time with his family, nurturing a loving and supportive environment for his children. His wife, Pallavi, and his sons are his constant source of inspiration and strength. Their support and understanding have been pivotal in his journey, enabling him to pursue his ambitions while maintaining a harmonious family life.

MG Construction: A Legacy of Excellence:

Under Tripathi’s visionary leadership, MG Construction quickly established itself as a frontrunner in North India’s construction sector. The company’s portfolio boasts a diverse range of projects, including residential complexes, commercial buildings, and infrastructure development, each reflecting Tripathi’s unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability.

Championing Sustainable Practices:

Tripathi’s forward-thinking approach is evident in his advocacy for sustainable construction practices. He has championed the adoption of eco-friendly technologies and green building designs, ensuring that MG Construction not only meets but exceeds environmental standards. This commitment to sustainability has set new benchmarks in the industry and reinforced Tripathi’s reputation as a pioneer in sustainable development.

Recognition and Achievements:

Tripathi’s relentless pursuit of excellence has garnered him numerous accolades. Among his most notable achievements is the recognition from the Prestigious Book of World Records for his exceptional contributions to the construction industry. In addition, he was honoured with the “IPBR 2024” Best Social Services Award by the India Proud Book of Records, highlighting his outstanding contributions to social welfare through initiatives like the “Kanya Vivah” program, financial assistance to needy families, and support for religious and cultural projects.

Philanthropy and Social Impact:

Tripathi’s dedication to social causes extends beyond his business ventures. Through MG Construction, he has initiated numerous social projects, including the construction of temples, support for underprivileged communities, and the promotion of educational and healthcare facilities. His philanthropic endeavors are a testament to his belief in using his resources and influence to create positive change. Particularly notable is the “Kanya Vivah” program, which assists in the marriage of girls from financially challenged families, ensuring they have a secure and joyous start to their married lives.

Looking to the Future:

As Tripathi continues to steer MG Construction towards greater heights, his vision for the future remains steadfast. He aims to expand the company’s reach, embracing cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, while continuing to champion social causes. His leadership and dedication serve as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and industry leaders, demonstrating that success is measured not only by financial achievements but by the positive impact one leaves on society.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Abhishek Kumar Tripathi’s journey from the Indian Air Force to becoming a transformative leader in North India’s construction industry is a story of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to social welfare. As he continues to redefine industry standards and inspire future generations, Tripathi’s legacy will undoubtedly be remembered as one of visionary leadership and compassionate service. His life’s work exemplifies the belief that true success lies in the betterment of others and the creation of lasting, positive change in the world. Balancing his roles as a businessman, family man, and philanthropist, Abhishek Kumar Tripathi stands as a beacon of inspiration for all.

Website – https://www.mgconstructionindia.com/

Social Media – https://www.facebook.com/sosanbaby11

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) emerges as the champions of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. They defeated the tournament favourites Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 8 wickets. It was a one-sided final and SRH registered the lowest total ever scored by a team in  an IPL final. The most expensive player in the history of IPL,  Mitchel Starcwon the player of the match award in the Final.  The Australian speedster proved his worth, because the KKR management was criticised by the fans for the investment. 

Before all this, SRH captain Pat Cummins won the toss and decided to bat first, their openers were in a red hot form throughout the session. However, in the finals KKR pacers took a dig at them and both the openers got out within 2 overs. KKR bowlers took wickets at regular intervals and didn’t let SRH batters settle. Andre Rusell with 3 wickets was the pick of the bowlers. 

Replying to this, KKR batters looked in a hurry and they lost their first wicket in the second over. With the KO specialist Venkatesh Iyer in the middle, who smashed a quick fire 50 with the strike rate of 200 and led his team off the mark. He became the first player to hit 4 consecutive half-centuries in the knockouts. After this win Gautam Gambhir became the first man to win the IPL trophy as Captain and Coach. 

Awards

Most Valuable Player: Sunil Narine, KKR, 488 runs & 17 wickets. He also became the first to win MVP award thrice, first in 2012 & second in 2018.

Emerging Player: Nitish Kumar Reddy, SRH.

Orange Cap: Virat Kohli, RCB, 741 runs.

Purple Cap: Harshal Patel, PBKS, 24 wickets.

Super Striker of the Season: Jake Fraser-McGurk, DC. 

Ultimate fantasy player: Sunil Narine, KKR.

Most sixes of the season: Abhishek Sharma, SRH.

Most fours of the season: Travis Head, SRH. 

Catch of the season: Ramandeep Singh, KKR. 

Fairplay Award: Sunrisers Hyderabad. 

Prize Money for IPL 2024 Winners 

Winners: KKR, 20 crore.

Runner-ups: SRH, 12.5 crore. 

Third Place: RR, 7 crore.

Fourth Place: RCB, 6.5 crore.