SEEDS OF CHANGEINVESTING IN OUR PLANET’S FUTURE

BY NEHA JAIN

ur planet is an amazing planet, but it needs to help to thrive! That’s why each year on April 22, a billion people celebrate EARTH DAY to protect our planet from things like pollution, deforestation, climate change, air pollution world hunger, water scarcity are among the most pressing global problems THIS THEME, INVESTING OUR PLANET'S FUTURE is so important for all of us In 2023 most popular hill station MANALI faces disaster in many ways Infrastructure damages, loss of life and many injuries as well as displacement of residents and tourists The reasons behind all of this factors are illegal mining encroachment in riverbeds may have also contributed to the severity of the floods Our nature provides us beautiful environment to live and enjoy, so it is our responsibility to keep it clean, and away from all damage This beauty allure you to live more present and attentive of mindful living All world needs to live stress free life and reduce their anxiety This beauty in turn, motivates individuals to embrace practices like mindfulness, meditation and mindful awareness

Benefits Of Mindful Living

1- Improve focus and concentration.

2- Enhanced emotional regulation.

3- Reduced stress and anxiety.

Zero Waste is a lifestyle and philosophy that aims to minimize waste generation and promote the efficient use of resources. By making small changes in the houses like using bamboo brush, straw, reducing reliance on paper products, everyone should try to store food snacks and drink to reusable containers By making these small changes in our houses, we can reach the journey of zero waste Choose your business that prioritize sustainability and reduces waste We should give plants as a gift when we attend any parties and celebrations so that everyone can be aware of our environment to save our planet’s future We have to contribute to cleaning our environment, which is necessary for our good lifestyle

Water Conservation- conserving water is essential for both environmental sustainability and ensuring access to clean water for future generations The daily commute contributes significantly to a family’s carbon foot print

Consider walking , cycling or using public transportation instead of relying on individual car journey Both walking and cycling offer numerous healthy benefits. If feasible switch to an electric or hybrid vehicle to further reduce your family’s impact on the environment Solar energy production does not release greenhouse gases, helping to combat climate change The use of solar energy can reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lowering energy costs and boosting economic growth For example, in Australia amount of water is decreasing day by day, so people are saving rainwater and not wasting it Whereas in India, people are wasting water and don’t care, in Rajasthan, Jaipur has high solar irradiance, which makes it an ideal place for solar energy utilization

This article explores various ways in which families can embrace eco-friendly living, making conscious decisions that contribute to a healthier planet for future generations.

As you turn the page, let the adventure begin –our book reviews await, promising literary delights and captivating tales!

Mamta Nainy

In "10 Indian Traditions of Folk Music That Tell Our Stories", Mamta Nainy invites young readers into the rich and resonant world of Indian folk music, presenting it not merely as sound but as a living archive of our diverse heritage Through the lens of ten distinct traditions from the Ladishah ballads of Kashmir to the Bhatiyali boatmen’s songs of Bengal Nainy explores how music acts as a vessel for storytelling, spiritual reflection, and cultural continuity The book acts as both an introduction and an ode to these traditions, encouraging children to take pride in their roots and engage with the stories of their land. The book doesn’t just offer historical overviews but also emphasizes the emotional and developmental value of folk music in a child’s life. Music becomes a tool for emotional expression, aiding children in developing empathy, memory, and rhythm. Nainy weaves this narrative with clarity and warmth, subtly showing how folk traditions such as the Kabir Vaani or Lavani are not relics of the past but living, breathing practices that still influence creativity and imagination in everyday life What truly stands out in Nainy’s work is her ability to frame folk music as a form of social engagement She underscores how these musical traditions foster a sense of belonging and community among children, allowing them to connect with others through shared performances and stories By introducing them to music rooted in regional identities like the Janapadas of Karnataka or the Nizami Qawwalis of Delhi she helps children explore India’s cultural diversity while reinforcing unity through art Mamta Nainy’s voice is both educational and playful, striking the perfect tone for young readers With her background in children's literature and her award-winning experience as an author, she succeeds in blending factual richness with storytelling flair.

"10 Indian Traditions of Folk Music That Tell Our Stories" is not just a book it’s a celebration of India’s soul through song, and an essential read for nurturing cultural pride, empathy, and curiosity in young hearts.

Ever imagined Sherlock Holmes walking beside Gandhi on the Salt March? Neither had Dinu, the young hero of Lavanya Karthik’s "A Demon in Dandi" But that's exactly the vibe of this zany, heartfelt tale set in 1930s colonial India Dinu would much rather be solving fictional crimes with his nose buried in a book than digging trenches or cooking daal for Gandhi’s tukdi (volunteer team) But fate, and one very suspicious death, have other plans Soon, he’s caught in a heady whirlwind of historical resistance, whispered demon sightings, and actual murder. Who knew independence could be so... spooky? What really makes this book pop like a fistful of firecrackers is its delightful juggling act: it’s a coming-of-age story, a whodunit, and a primer on India’s independence struggle all rolled into one. Lavanya Karthik’s writing is crisp, vivid, and full of warmth, making history not just digestible but delicious. And the characters? Alive. Dinu is all nerves and heart, trying to balance his father’s expectations, village duties, and a demon mystery that won’t stop breathing down his neck Add in bicycles on bad roads, suspicious villagers, and Gandhi’s looming arrival, and you’ve got chaos and charm in equal measure The author doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff either From Dinu’s aching self-doubt to the political tension brewing in every conversation, the book doesn’t just skim the surface of history It dives in, spinning cotton with the villagers and spinning tales for modern readers The mystery element keeps things zippy, but it's the moral and emotional layers non-violence, courage, and community that give it depth Whether you're twelve, twenty, or just a big ol’ nerd for historical fiction, "A Demon in Dandi" is a rollicking, poignant adventure It’s got grit, ghosts (sort of), and Gandhian grit

So if you're craving a read where history gets a quirky twist and heroes wear chappals, not capes this one’s for you.

A Teashop in Kamalapura & Other Classic

Kannada Stories by Mini Krishnan

"A Teashop in Kamalapura & Other Classic Kannada Stories" edited by Mini Krishnan and translated by Susheela Punitha isn’t just a collection of stories it’s a vibrant mosaic of voices, memories, and moments that echo across generations With the lyrical rhythm of regional Indian languages and sharp undercurrents of social insight, these tales dive into the everyday lives of people navigating love, rejection, caste, friendship, and faith What makes this anthology especially captivating is how effortlessly it bridges the past and the present The reviewer found a personal hook in the title “Kamala,” also the name of their grandmother which added a layer of warmth and nostalgia to the reading experience But beyond that emotional tie, it was the sheer storytelling brilliance and cultural richness of Kannada literature that made the book unforgettable The anthology features works by renowned literary figures, including Panje Mangesh Rao, Maasti Venkatesha Iyengar, and Triveni The opening story, written in 1900, was a pleasant revelation full of wit, relatable characters, and a narrative voice that felt modern despite its age Translator Susheela Punitha and editor Mini Krishnan are credited with carefully curating these stories and making them available to a broader audience. Their work emphasizes the vital role translators play in preserving regional literature while expanding its reach beyond linguistic borders. What makes this collection particularly powerful is its thematic and narrative diversity. The stories move effortlessly between humour, tragedy, social commentary, and philosophical reflection. From a comedic tale of a man eager to marry, to the haunting account of a girl married to a deity in 'The Girl I Killed', the collection traverses a wide emotional landscape One standout story, 'Two Ways of Living', reveals in a twist that the narrator is a horse, exploring themes of exploitation with quiet intensity Another story features a divorced Muslim woman rejected by her mother highlighting how patriarchy is often upheld by women themselves In addition to its emotional depth, the collection also offers insights into the evolution of Kannada language and storytelling Early stories are rich in natural imagery and everyday dialogue, while later ones reveal a fusion of linguistic influences, including Hindi proverbs and modernist themes These shifts reflect broader societal changes and the impact of colonialism, modernisation, and reformist thought Spanning nearly a century, this anthology captures the essence of Kannada society over time.

It is a must-read for anyone interested in short stories, cultural narratives, or the enduring power of regional literature.

AiR (Atman in Ravi)'s "Action Is the Secret to Attraction" offers a fresh perspective on the widely discussed concept of the Law of Attraction. While many books focus solely on visualization and manifestation, AiR emphasizes the indispensable role of action in achieving success and fulfillment The book is structured into 12 practical steps, blending philosophical insights with actionable advice, making it a transformative guide for readers seeking both material success and spiritual enlightenment The book challenges the conventional understanding of the Law of Attraction by introducing the concept that attraction alone is insufficient without action AiR argues that visualization creates passion, but only action can turn that passion into reality He cleverly highlights how "action" is embedded in the word "attraction," emphasizing their interdependence By combining these two forces, AiR presents a compelling equation Attraction + Action that serves as the foundation for all manifestations. This approach makes the book stand out among others in its genre, as it bridges the gap between theoretical visualization and practical execution. AiR's 12-step framework is detailed and methodical, guiding readers from understanding attraction to achieving selfrealization and liberation. Each step builds upon the previous one, starting with discovering the power of thoughts and visualization, progressing through discrimination between positive and negative energy, and culminating in spiritual illumination For instance, Step 4 focuses on Karma the Law of Action which underscores the importance of deeds in shaping one's destiny The emphasis on purification and thoughtlessness in later steps reflects AiR's deep spiritual insights, making the book not just a manual for worldly success but also a guide for inner peace One of the strengths of this book is AiR’s ability to weave his personal experiences into philosophical teachings He shares how positive thinking transformed his life and how he discovered that thoughts are the starting point of all achievements His journey from chasing material success to realizing the ultimate goal of enlightenment adds authenticity to his arguments Readers can relate to his struggles and triumphs, which makes his advice more impactful. The narrative is enriched with quotes from notable figures like Rhonda Byrne and Jack Canfield, enhancing its credibility. AiR's "Action Is the Secret to Attraction" goes beyond typical self-help books by blending the pursuit of material success with spiritual awakening. Emphasizing action, self-realization, and enlightenment, AiR offers a structured path to both outer achievement and inner peace. With relatable anecdotes and deep philosophical insights, the book inspires readers to rise above mere materialism and embrace true transformation.

AI Valley by Gary Rivlin

Gary Rivlin's "AI Valley: Microsoft, Google, and the Trillion-Dollar Race to Cash In on Artificial Intelligence" offers an incisive exploration of the high-stakes race among tech giants such as Microsoft, Google, and Meta to dominate the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence. The book captures the transformative moment in AI history, where tools like ChatGPT and Gemini have shifted AI from a speculative technology to a practical force reshaping industries A veteran Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist shadows the top thinkers in the field of Artificial Intelligence, introducing the breakthroughs and developments that will change the way we live and work Rivlin's narrative is enriched by his access to key figures like Reid Hoffman, Sam Altman, and Mustafa Suleyman, whose companies Inflection AI, OpenAI, and DeepMind are at the forefront of AI innovation Through vivid storytelling, Rivlin not only chronicles breakthroughs but also delves into the uncertainty surrounding which companies will succeed or fail in this trillion-dollar race. One of the book's strengths lies in its critical analysis of the financial and ethical dimensions of AI development. Rivlin highlights the enormous investments being made by tech companies, juxtaposing their optimism with scepticism from analysts at institutions like Goldman Sachs and Sequoia Capital. He questions whether these expenditures will yield substantial returns or merely fuel speculative bubbles Furthermore, Rivlin addresses societal implications, including ethical concerns about AI's potential misuse and its impact on employment This balanced perspective ensures the book is not merely a celebration of technological advancements but also a thoughtful critique of their risks Rivlin's writing style is both accessible and engaging, making complex AI concepts understandable to readers outside the tech industry His investigative approach is complemented by anecdotal insights gathered during more than a year of research The book offers a behind-the-scenes look at leadership dynamics within companies like Inflection AI, illustrating how even well-funded ventures with visionary leaders can falter under the pressures of rapid innovation. Whether exploring breakthroughs or failures, he provides readers with a nuanced understanding of the monumental stakes involved in shaping AI's future.

For anyone interested in technology, business strategy, or societal change, "AI Valley" is an essential read that encapsulates both the excitement and uncertainty surrounding artificial intelligence.

All In by Girish Mathrubootham & Pankaj Mishra

"All In: Memoirs of the Freshworks Founder" is a deeply inspiring account of Girish Mathrubootham’s journey from the temple town of Trichy, Tamil Nadu, to the global stage of Nasdaq In this memoir, Girish takes readers through the highs and lows of his life, beginning with humble roots and limited means, all the way to founding Freshworks the first Indian SaaS company to go public in the United States His story is not just about building a tech company; it’s about resilience, vision, and the belief that greatness can emerge from the most ordinary beginnings With over 70,000 customers across thirteen global locations, Freshworks is a testament to what’s possible when passion meets purpose The heart of Girish’s story lies in his unwavering determination to create something meaningful, despite numerous setbacks After completing his engineering degree, he moved to Chennai with little money and few prospects Survival, not success, was his first goal Yet through persistence, curiosity, and a refusal to give up, he gradually found his footing in the tech world His experiences as a software engineer in the U S , including the struggles and learning curves, laid the foundation for his future ventures. Along the way, he encountered mentors like Kumar Vembu of Zoho, whose guidance helped shape Girish’s approach to leadership and innovation. These moments serve as powerful reminders that mentorship and learning from failure are crucial stepping stones to growth. Girish’s boldest move came in 2010, when he left a secure and well-paying job to launch Freshdesk (later rebranded as Freshworks). At a time when startups were still a rarity in India, especially outside of elite circles, Girish dared to dream big With clarity of vision and a customer-first mindset, he built a product that stood out in a crowded market What began as a simple customer service solution evolved into a suite of products used by businesses across the globe The road to IPO wasn’t easy, but his perseverance, belief in his team, and ability to learn from every challenge set him apart His journey reflects the spirit of entrepreneurship in its truest form one that is built on courage, creativity, and community

For every reader seeking purpose, motivation, or a reason to believe in their journey, this memoir delivers a powerful and lasting message: with heart, hustle, and hope, anything is possible.

All or Nothing by

Michael Wolff

Michael Wolff’s "All or Nothing: How Trump Recaptured America" is a frenetic, insider chronicle of Donald Trump’s improbable political resurrection in the wake of his 2020 defeat. Wolff, already well-known for his previous Trump exposés, delivers another rapid-fire narrative that plunges readers into the chaos, drama, and spectacle of Trump’s third presidential campaign The book opens with Trump brooding in exile at Mar-a-Lago, abandoned by many allies and facing a barrage of legal and political threats, only to chart his astonishing return to the pinnacle of American power Wolff’s access to Trump’s inner circle yields a portrait that is both intimate and unflinching, capturing the oscillation between farce and tragedy that defines Trumpworld Wolff’s style is as much a part of the book’s character as its subject The prose is brisk, gossipy, and often laced with dark humour, making for a compulsively readable account that feels as breathless as the events it describes The narrative is populated by a cast of eccentric and sometimes sycophantic figures Trump’s staffers, political allies, and rivals each rendered with a sharp, sometimes cruel eye for the absurd. Wolff does not shy away from the grotesque or the ridiculous, painting Trump as both a “raving mad” figure and, paradoxically, the most consequential American politician since FDR. The book’s immediacy arriving just months after the events it covers adds to its sense of urgency and relevance. However, "All or Nothing" is not without its flaws, many of which are familiar from Wolff’s earlier works His reliance on anonymous sources and a narrative style that sometimes borders on the telepathic has drawn criticism, with detractors both inside and outside Trump’s orbit accusing him of inaccuracies and embellishment The book’s tone often blurs the line between reportage and satire, which, while effective in capturing the surreal nature of contemporary American politics, can undermine the seriousness of its subject Moreover, Wolff’s interpretation of Trump as a figure propelled more by luck and chaos than by strategy risks oversimplifying the profound and lasting impact of his presidency Despite these caveats, "All or Nothing" succeeds as both a gripping political page-turner and a vivid social document of a nation at a crossroads Wolff’s insider access and flair for the dramatic provide readers with a front-row seat to the spectacle of Trump’s comeback, replete with moments of genuine insight and jaw-dropping revelation.

For those seeking to understand the forces that continue to shape American democracy in the Trump era, Wolff’s latest is essential if sometimes exasperating reading.

Arundhati Ghosh's "All Our Loves: Journeys with Polyamory in India" is a groundbreaking exploration into the world of polyamory within the unique social and cultural context of India. Ghosh embarks on a personal and deeply insightful journey, blending her own experiences with broader discussions on love, relationships, and societal norms The book challenges conventional understandings of love and commitment, inviting readers to question the long-held belief in monoamory as the only valid relationship structure She skillfully navigates the complexities of polyamory in India, addressing both its potential and its challenges She highlights the difficulties faced by those who choose to love outside the confines of traditional monogamy, including social stigma, familial pressures, and legal constraints Through personal anecdotes and interviews, Ghosh brings to light the diverse ways in which polyamorous relationships are practiced and experienced, emphasizing the importance of consent, communication, and ethical considerations. One of the book's strengths lies in its ability to contextualize polyamory within the Indian social fabric. Ghosh examines the influence of family, community, caste, and religion on individual choices and relationship dynamics. She also explores the intersection of polyamory with other social justice movements, such as feminism and queer rights, demonstrating how these struggles are interconnected in the fight for freedom and self-expression "All Our Loves" serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to understand polyamory, whether they are polyamorous themselves or simply curious about alternative relationship models Ghosh provides a thoughtful and nuanced perspective, dispelling common misconceptions and offering practical advice for navigating the challenges of non-monogamous relationships She also emphasizes the importance of creating supportive communities and advocating for legal and social changes that recognize and protect the rights of polyamorous individuals Ultimately, "All Our Loves" is a call for greater acceptance and understanding of diverse forms of love and relationships.

Ghosh's book is not just about polyamory; it is about challenging societal norms, embracing individuality, and creating a more inclusive world where everyone has the freedom to love and be loved in the way that feels most authentic to them.

Another Day in Landour by Ruskin Bond

"Another Day in Landour" by Ruskin Bond is like a warm cup of tea on a rainy afternoon This book offers a peek into Bond’s daily life in the tranquil hill station of Landour, nestled above Mussoorie Composed of journal entries written over the past couple of years, the book paints a calm and cosy portrait of days gently unfolding in Bond’s familiar world His window becomes a lens through which we see the charm of rustling trees, drifting clouds, and the occasional snow shower all wrapped in the comfort of his timeless storytelling Ruskin Bond’s reflections are refreshingly simple yet deeply evocative Whether he's musing over a stubborn toothache or admiring a fresh bloom, his writing reminds us how rich life can be when we take time to observe it. There's no rush here, no plot twists just the rhythm of nature and the hum of everyday life in the hills. His voice is warm and witty, filled with gentle wisdom that nudges us to notice the beauty in the mundane. What makes this book especially endearing is its quiet encouragement to slow down and look around. Bond’s style soul-soothing and subtly humorous feels like catching up with an old friend who always knows what to say. Longtime fans will feel right at home, while new readers might find themselves quickly enchanted by the simplicity and serenity of Landour, as seen through Bond’s ever-curious eyes

Whether you’re a nature lover, a fan of memoirs, or simply looking for a comforting read, "Another Day in Landour" is a gentle invitation to breathe a little deeper and smile a little more. It’s not just about looking out of a window it’s about seeing life with a softer gaze.

Birds, Sex and Beauty by Matt Ridley Matt Ridley's " Birds, Sex and Beauty: The Extraordinary Implications of Charles Darwin's Strangest Idea " is a fascinating exploration of Charles Darwin's theory of sexual selection, focusing on the elaborate mating rituals of birds Ridley delves into the lek of the Black Grouse, where males perform intricate dances and songs to attract females. This spectacle serves as a vivid entry point into the broader implications of sexual selection, challenging the traditional view that evolution is solely about survival Instead, Ridley highlights how mate choice driven by aesthetic preferences has shaped the natural world in extraordinary ways His detailed observations and lyrical prose bring these rituals to life, making the book both scientifically insightful and deeply engaging The book revisits Darwin’s contentious idea that beauty in nature arises from female preference rather than utility Ridley traces the intellectual debates surrounding this theory, including Alfred Russel Wallace’s scepticism and Ronald Fisher’s "Sexy Son Hypothesis," which suggests that females select traits promising attractive offspring Using examples like peacocks, bowerbirds, and birds of paradise, Ridley illustrates how extravagant displays evolved not for survival but to charm mates. These behaviours raise profound questions about the nature of beauty itself, suggesting that aesthetics may be rooted in reproductive imperatives. Author Ridley’s narrative also extends beyond birds to human evolution, provocatively suggesting parallels between avian mate choice and human cultural practices. He explores how similar forces of sexual selection might influence traits like art, music, and even luxury items. This interdisciplinary approach bridges biology and culture, offering readers a fresh perspective on human behaviour through the lens of avian courtship His reflections on ultraviolet hues visible to birds but invisible to humans further emphasise how beauty is perceived differently across species Ultimately, "Birds, Sex and Beauty" is a masterful blend of nature writing and evolutionary theory Ridley's ability to intertwine scientific rigour with poetic language makes the book a treat for both bird enthusiasts and evolutionary biologists

By shedding light on the eccentricities of mate choice, Ridley not only deepens our understanding of evolution but also invites readers to marvel at the breathtaking beauty of nature’s designs