Unique Times July 2020

Vol 9 Issue No.106 July - Aug 2020 USD 0.70`50AED 5BD 0.500

GOKULAM GOPALAN: THE SOCIALLY COMMITTED BUSINESSMAN INVESTING IN GOLD & OPTIONS FOR THE RETAIL INVESTOR Shri V.P. Nandakumar, MD & CEO Manappuram Finance Ltd.

Jebitha Ajit Director & CEO Editor Jebitha Ajit Legal Advisor Latha Anand

B.S.Krishnan Associates What you do says what is most important to you. bskrishnanassociates@gmail.com Action expresses priorities.” – Mahatma Gandhi Sub-Editor Vignesh S.G Business is a way to make money for some. For Associate Editor Ravi Saini certain noble souls, it is a way to service their so Rajeev Kumar ciety. Being a socially committed businessman is

Director and special editor kollur not a small thing. This month’s cover story portrays Correspondents Dr. Thomas Nechupadam the extraordinary story of a kind hearted business

Vivek Venugopal- Quarter Mile

Amrutha V Kumar leader, Gokulam Gopalan, and what he has to say Creative Design PEGASUS about his business and social life.

Cover Photographer Dr. Swami Bhadraanand This month, there are two special stories. One Marketing UAE of them shares what senior political leader Sam

Phygicart.com Pitroda has to say about the challenges before the

P.O. Box: 92546, Al Karama Dubai country at this juncture. The other one is about a Mr. Anish K Joy

cosmetic revolution Rooma V S has commenced

Mob: +971528946999 with her permanent cosmetic clinic, Rooma Per info@phygicart.com manent Cosmetics clinic, Kochi.

Plot No 19A, 9th Floor, The review about Hyundai Verna is what makes

Green Building, Film City, the auto section exciting this time. Meanwhile, our

Sector - 16A, Noida - 201301 travel section is as interesting as the rest. In that Maharashtra

sector, an exceptionally beautiful African country,

Jayasankar M, a/101, Equatorial Guinea, is explored.

New Prathamesh Niwas, Apart from those that have been mentioned

OPP. Laxmi Park, Thakurli East, above, this edition has many other exciting articles

Dombivli post, Thane District, 421201 which cover a variety of topics from health and

Mob: 9820708662 beauty to movie review and book review.

Hariharan

Hope that like our previous editions this edition

chennai, Mob: 9840018929 will also excite you.

Unique Times, No.6/31,

Arunachalam main road, Saligramam, Thank You

Chennai – 600093 Sd/Karnataka

Jebitha Ajit

Paperback Publishing

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Editorial “

Printed at St. Reddiar & Sons, P.B. No: 3627, Veekshanam Road, Cochin Published at Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd. L5-106, Changampuzha Nagar Kalamassery, Ernakulam-682 033 e-mail: editor@uniquetimes.org uniquetimesindia@gmail.com Ph:0484 2532040, 2532080 Mob:+91 98460 50283, 94470 50283

Cover Photograph Gokulam Gopalan

Printer & publisher Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd. Cochin (682033) on behalf of Ajit Ravi. Printed at S.T.Reddiar & Sons, Cochin-18.

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CONTENTS

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Gokulam Gopalan: the socially committed businessman

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Investing in Gold and options for the retail investor

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It is not just starting but about scaling up

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MSME Act– a wile collection maneuver

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Facts about Fibromyalgia

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58

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An Extraordinary Man In An Ordinary World

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Gadgets

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Natural ways to cure skin rashes

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Equatorial Guinea: The Dream Land in Africa

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Hyundai Verna

UNIQUE DIARY

US extends ban on immigration and non-immigrant worker visas

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he United States administration led by US President Donald Trump has extended the 60-day ban on immigration and non-immigrant worker visas. The ban is expected to remain in place until the end of this year.

The move has been justified saying that it is necessary to support the domestic workforce. The policy may hugely affect H-1B and H-2B visa holders. That implies that many Indians who work in the Information Technology sector in the US may lose their jobs. It is assumed that the ban may be extended beyond the end of this year if the government finds the extension necessary. The US economy is at present in a bad state.

Boycotting Chinese product not a solution, says Maruti Suzuki Chairman

"In order to succeed, we must first believe that we can."

Nikos Kazantzakis

A

s the anger towards China – which recently launched an aggressive attack against India – has reached its peak paving way for the call for the boycott of imports from the rogue neighbour, several industrial experts have warned that the action might hurt India more than it would hurt the unprincipled neighbour. Maruti Suzuki Chairman RC Bhargava, in a recent interview given to a prominent national daily, has said that the real solution to the issue remained in making the country’s manufacturing much more deep, competitive and widespread. He has added that the call for boycott might hurt us more than it would hurt them. He has further added that the boycott of non-essential items may not affect us.

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UNIQUE DIARY

Skyrocketing fuel prices worries people

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he unprecedented increase in the prices of petrol and diesel in the country has left the people of the country in dismay. At present, the average price of petrol and diesel is around eighty Indian Rupees per litre. Prior to the imposition of lockdown, the average price was below seventy Indian Rupees per litre. the hike has even destructed several industries almost completely. If things progress in this direction, the average price of petrol and diesel may even touch the magic number of one hundred Indian Rupees per litre. If the country has a will, it can contain the threat of hike easily.

Hydrogen-powered vehicles: India removes red-tapes

"If you can find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn’t lead anywhere."

Frank A. Clark

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he Asian superpower country of India, in the quest for developing an alternative fuel source, has cleared almost all red-tapes that have been standing as obstacles for the launch of hydrogen-powered vehicles. It is not the first time such an action has been taken. Earlier, for the introduction of electric-powered vehicles similar action was taken. At present, Indian does not have a hydrogen-powered car. The reason is simple: the availability of the said fuel is less in the country.

It is expected to increase in the coming days. As per a latest report, Hyundai plans to launch a hydrogen-powered vehicle in the country in the near future.

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Companies’ contribution to CAPF and CPMF veterans to be treated as CSR

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enceforth, the contribution of companies towards Central Armed Police Force and Central Para Military Force veterans will be treated as Corporate Social Responsibility spending. To implement the policy, the government has amended the Schedule VII of the Companies Act 2013, which defines what all are those activities that can be treated as CSR activities. As per the act, certain companies which belong to a particular class have to spend at least two per cent of their three-year annual average net profit towards CSR programs. The new policy may benefit CAPF and CPMF veterans hugely, as the policy may attract more funds towards these areas.

Chingari App gives tough competition to TikTok

“Failure Will Never Overtake Me If My Determination To Succeed Is Strong Enough.”

Og Mandino

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he call for the boycott of Chinese products made by a section of social media users has gifted an unexpected impetus to Chingari App, a TikTok-like application developed by few young Indian minds few years ago. It was in the year 2018 the app was initially launched through Google Play. Apart from the present political situation – particularly the disastrous border clash between China and India, what makes this application appealing is the fact that it meets everything an Indian expects from such an app. Truly, it is an Indian version of the Chinese tech giant – which has established a huge presence in the country by now.

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COVERSTORY

GOKULAM GOPALAN: THE SOCIALLY COMMITTED

BUSINESSMAN B

eing a socially committed person is extra-ordinary – especially if you are into business. Not all people have the true courage to dedicate their life for their society. Specifically speaking, the present generation has come down to the level of selfishness. Needless to say, given the aforesaid facts, if there is someone who does not qualify the said assumptions, he deserves to be treated as a noble soul. Fortunately, a search for one such divine soul has culminated with a positive note.

In this edition, a business legend, who has shown the world the importance of leading a socially committed life, is covered. That exceptional human is none other than A M Gopalan (popularly known as Gokulam Gopalan), the owner of Gokulam Group of Companies.

There is a saying that ‘there is a small footprint behind every big’. Like what the saying implies, the beginning of this business leader’s career was also humble. Born in a small village near Vadakara in Kerala, Mr. Gopalan was a very sincere student. He secured his graduation in Mathematics from the Kerala University. His interest for acting attracted him to the dream city of Chennai. His initial days in Chennai was extremely challenging. An accidental meeting with a doctor worked as a game changer. That opened a door of opportunities before him. He, with the help of the doctor – who found his educational accomplishments impressive, secured a challenging job opportunity as medical representative.

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Photographs: nijeesh Vijay - afterain

It is important for a businessman to identify his first spark. It is from that striking realisation he discovers his true potential as a businessman.

To Mr. Gopalan, that spark happened when he joined his first job. His job required him to wear a kind of professional attire. At that point of time, because of his not-so-good financial position, he was not able to afford that. He is not a man who simply stares at hurdles helplessly. He found the solution to his problem in a brilliant financial plan.

He started a mini chit fund involving not more than ten people with a monthly instalment of Rs. 60 each. Notably, it not only served his purpose but also formed a firm base for his chit business.

Now, his chit fund and finance company, Gokulam Chit Funds and Finance Private Limited, is around half a century old. This five-decade-old

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COVERSTORY company, started in Chennai, has as many as 460 branches across the country. Gokulam Group, which is a very promising business Group, is not limited to this business. It has interests in hospitality, healthcare, education, logistics, food manufacturing, cinema and media entertainment, retail and even realty. It employs not less than 11,000 people.

Its annual turnover is over Rs. 7,000 crore.

Gokulam Park (Chennai), Gokulam Park (Coimbatore), Gokulam Park Sabari (OMR, Chennai), Gokulam Park Hotel & Convention Centre (Kochi), Sree Gokulam Nalanda Resorts (Nileswaram), Sree Gokulam Vanamala (Guruvayur), Sree Gokulam Residency (Thrissur), Hotel Gokulam Fort (Thalassery), and MSR Hotel and Spa (Bengaluru) are the backbone of the hospitality arm of the Group.

Mr. Gopalan has trust in the potential of the state’s tourism sector.

It is clear form his enthusiasm to increase his investment in the hospitality sector. The Group operates a chain of luxury boats in Alappuzha – the Venice of the East.

This legendary businessman is

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the one who values education more than anything else in this world.

As he knowns very well that an investment in education is an investment in future, his investment in education is huge. He runs several educational institutions – not only in Kerala but also across the world, particularly in the Middle East.

Dovecote Green Primary School (Dubai) is one of the Group’s biggest contribution. Sree Gokulam Public School is now a very familiar, as well as respected, name in the state. The Group has more than seven schools and three arts colleges in the state.

The educational institutions run by the Group stand out from the rest for the dedicated, as well as humanitarian, way in which they operate.

It is silently bringing a revolutionary change in the education sector of the state.

Sree Gokulam Medical College and Research Foundation is an asset to the medical education sector of the state. The college, which the Group runs, offers world class medical education, and is one of the most promising medical colleges in the state. It is also popular for its social service initiatives. In the medial

college, there is a separate block for rehabilitating senior citizens. The block primarily serves poor.

One of the fastest growing multispeciality hospitals in this part of the world, GG Hospital (Trivandrum), is owned by the Gokulam Group.

Since his childhood, Mr. Gopalan is a film enthusiast. He loves acting.

He has received huge appreciation for his acting in Clint. His deep interest in acting explains his huge investment in the film and entertainment sector. He is a well-known producer. Some of the films that carries his production company’s name includes Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja and Kayamkulam Kochunni.

Notably, Mr. Gopalan was the producer of the first film directed by Tamil Superstar Vijay’s father, Chandrasekhar; it was back in 1976 – a year after he formally registered his chit fund business.

It is proud to note here that Mr. Gopalan, who has left no stone unturned and thoroughly explored every business opportunity that has come before him, is the Chairman and the major state holder of a rapidly growing Malayalam television channel, Flowers TV, and a trust-

worthy Malayalam news channel, 24. Both these channels have transformed the sectors almost entirely, and are now market leaders.

The contribution of this business leader is not limited to the aforesaid areas. It is far beyond this. It covers almost everything – from hospitality and entertainment to retail and real estate.

His contribution to business is not the only reason he is revered widely. He is not less

than an extremely sincere philanthropist. He is one of the few persons who believe in the philosophy that ‘don’t let your left hand known what your right is doing’. For that reason, he bothers less to publicise his philanthropic initiatives.

This hero is a true inspiration. Let’s go through his words.

You are one of the most successful business persons Kerala has ever seen. When was

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COVERSTORY

the first time you realised that there was a talented business person in you?

I am a person who thinks differently, and who understands the value of time. During my schooldays, my aim was to enter a sector where I can make optimum utilisation of my time. The sector of business stands out from the rest, as this sector is only suitable for those who consider time as something which is precious.

Now, I feel proud that I am at the right platform.

It is said that the South Indian city of Chennai was the one which moulted the hardworking businessman in you. How much truth is there in this statement?

Surely, the South Indian city of Chennai has a huge role in my success as a businessman. This city, unlike the rest, welcomes all – even outsiders – wholeheartedly. Here, the caste, religion or political ideology of a worker does not matter; only thing that matters here is his hard work and dedication. The city has gifted several successful persons.

One of your initial ventures, Sree Gokulam Chit and Finance Company Private Limited, is now a fiftyyear-old. What was that reason that prompted you to start this business? How do you see this five-decade-long journey?

When I decided I should become a businessman, I did not have any confusion on what business I should start. Chit business is not alien to me. This was very popular in Vadakara, the place where I born and spent my childhood, and several locations in and around that region.

My father also had this business.

During my childhood days, I also helped my father run his small chit business. That experience supported me immensely, when I started my own chit business. Now, when I look back, as the business stands with more than five-decade-long experience, I feel proud. The main requisite of a successful chit business is trustworthiness. The lack of the

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ethics of chit fund has contributed to the collapse of several popular chit companies.

You have contributed heavily to the education sector of the state. When did you realise that your support should be offered to this sector? Why do you feel that education is one of those sectors which deserve serious attention?

I am a follower of Sree Narayana Guru. His main message is that education is wealth. If a man does not have education, his life is of no use. Now, education is a lucrative business. Higher education is now a luxury – limited to wealthy people.

There is no shortcut for victory. Behind every victory, there is a story of hard work. Victory is not something that can be achieved easily.

Trustworthiness is the only secret behind my success.

The present trend has left many talented minds out of the circle of higher education. With our educational initiatives, what I aim is to make higher education affordable.

Once you were a very successful medical representative. Now, you run a prestigious medical college. How do you see this?

I consider social service as something which is divine. For that reason, I see medical education as something which is valuable. It does not mean that other areas of education are less valuable. My point is that as the world is struggling under the clutches of threats like Covid-19 the area of medical education is

gaining more and more relevance day by day. Many poor people are undergoing treatment in our medical college in Trivandrum at free of cost. The activities of the hospital – especially those intended to wipe the tears of needy – grand me immense self-satisfaction.

It seems that you have a huge interest in the hospitality and tourism sector.

You run several prestigious hotels across the country – especially in Kerala. Can this sector transform the fate of the state for the best?

Our hotel chain operates mainly in three states: Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Nonetheless, the majority of the hotels are in Kerala.

It is sad to mention that the state of the tourism sector of the country is not impressive, compared to other countries. Likewise, the state of the said sector of Kerala is not satisfactory compared to other states in the country. Anyway, the state government has launched several programs to promote the tourism sector. It is a gratifying that I have gotten a golden opportunity to be a part of this initiative.

Now, it is not a secret that you are an exceptional actor. Your performance in Clint is a good example. At present, you are an indispensable presence in the South Indian film industry. Apart from being an actor, you are a very successful producer, as well as a distributer. What brought you to this industry?

Is that your passion for acting?

I always have passion for acting.

My journey in the industry started forty year back, when I produced a Telugu film. It is my extreme passion towards the field of acting that compels me to arrange my schedule in a way which assures adequate space for the nourishment of my acting skill. More good films should be created. We will always support the efforts to create good films.

Basically, you are a Malabarian – a person who hails

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image courtesy: Dr. Swami Bhadraanand

Gokulam Gopalan with his family

from the northern region of Kerala. It is said that a Malabarian means a football lover. Was it your love towards this sports that encouraged you to develop a professional football club, Gokulam Kerala Football club? Do you think that the Indian sports sector, if supported rightly, can stun the world with their performance?

If we look at the history of Indian football, we can see several talented football players from Malabar, the region located in the northern region of Kerala. Now, we have no many acclaimed players from the region in the team.

Moreover, even we don’t have many great players from the state in the national team. As a Malabarian, I feel sad about it. This scenario must change. The Malabar region should regain the lost prominence in the football sector.

It is the reason that has brought us to this sector. We hope for the best. It is unfortunate to say that compared to other countries the support and encouragement the country offers to their football players are inadequate.

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At this juncture, you are a very successful business person. There are many who see you as a role model. What do you want to say to them? What is the secret behind your success?

I am a person who has deep love and respect for Mahatma Gandhi. The father of the nation was the one who believed in action. I also believe in action.

There is no shortcut for victory.

Behind every victory, there is a story of hard work. Victory is not something that can be achieved easily. Trustworthiness is the only secret behind my success.

You deserve a special appreciation for the commitment you show to the society in which you live.

Please tell us how much important is to become a socially committed individual for a businessman.

Man is a social animal. He cannot detach himself from the society in which he belongs. What it implies is simple: each person is responsible to his society. I realise the said facts and act in accordance with those. Simple!ď Ź

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BUSINESS

Shri V.P.Nandakumar MD & CEO Manappuram Finance Ltd.

Gold is also a rare commodity which ensures its continuing appeal. Every year, fresh mining of gold adds only about 2,500 to 3,000 tonnes to the supply. According to the World Gold Council, the total amount of gold mined over the ages would be around 190,000 tonnes of which India is estimated to hold as much as 35,000 tonnes, and that is nearly 20% of al the global gold ever mined! This should be viewed against India’s share in land area at 2.4%, in population at 17%, and in GDP at 3.9%. Moreover, India’s share in global gold demand is about 22% a year (average annual net gold import of 800 tonnes) against a share of 2% in world trade.

Investing in Gold and options for the retail investor

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henever the price of gold goes up, the personal finance columns published in various newspapers and periodicals see hectic discussions about how much money an investor should set apart for investing in gold.

However, during periods when the price of gold is stable or showing weakness, these very columns tend to be either silent about gold or go the other way and recommend against holding gold in the portfolio. But now that gold price in India is ruling at historic highs, there is a broad consensus that gold should always be a part of our investment portfolio, with a decent share of our total budget (anywhere from 10 to 20 percent) earmarked for the yellow metal. It

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is therefore time to look at what makes gold an enduring investment and also examine the various avenues available to retail investors who wish to add gold to their portfolio.

Gold was historically used as a currency. When paper money came into the picture, it was initially backed by gold to inspire confidence. Gold holds the characteristics of a currency, a financial asset and also has quasi-foreign exchange attributes. After the US came off the gold standard in 1971, there is currently no other national currency in the world backed by gold. With the rise of paper currency, governments acquired great power to print currency at will. It is said that with great power comes great responsibility. However,

the record shows that governments around the world have too often shirked the responsibility to exercise this power with due care. And whenever this power was misused, it set off inflationary spirals in the economy, which acted as a check on the power of governments to issue or print currency at will.

Gold is also a rare commodity which ensures its continuing appeal.

Every year, fresh mining of gold adds only about 2,500 to 3,000 tonnes to the supply. According to the World Gold Council, the total amount of gold mined over the ages would be around 190,000 tonnes of which India is estimated to hold as much as 35,000 tonnes, and that is nearly 20% of al the global gold ever mined!

This should be viewed against India’s share in land area at 2.4%, in population at 17%, and in GDP at 3.9%. Moreover, India’s share in global gold demand is about 22% a year (average annual net gold import of 800 tonnes) against a share of 2% in world trade.

Gold during an Economic Crisis

During the great financial crisis of 2008-09, restraint in the matter of currency printing was given up by central banks in the advanced countries in the interest of stabilizing their economies. With all the extra money injected into the economy, interest rates fell while asset prices have increased sharply. Gold, in particular, was a major beneficiary, it’s price touching a peak of USD 1,900 per troy ounce in Aug 2011. In the current economic crisis induced by the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic, the price of gold has once again risen sharply and now looks set to pierce the USD 1800 level. In India,

with the Rupee having depreciated from levels of 45 to the dollar in Aug 2011 to about 75 rupees to the dollar nowadays, domestic gold prices are at historic highs, nearly Rs. 5,000 per gram (24K gold).

In the current economic crisis also, US Federal Reserve is pumping in a lot of money, and this will certainly shore up the value of gold, which is priced in USD. Besides, Gold invariably performs well during times of economic stress as it is a natural safe-haven asset. Add to this, the sheer amount of liquidity being injected into the system has resulted in interest rates falling in western economies (and Japan) to near zero and even negative levels. This further increases demand for gold as the opportunity cost of holding gold (foregoing the interest which could have been earned by parking the money as a bank deposit) becomes insignificant.

Moreover, the demand for gold has been resilient across economic cycles. When the economy is doing well, people spend more on discretionary purchases such as jewellery and technological devices, which increases the demand for gold. When the economy is down, confidence in the country’s financial system and currency weakens and investors seek reliable, liquid assets to protect their capital. This increases the demand for gold and thus its price.

Gold and the Indian consumer

In order to reduce portfolio risk, it is important to diversify one’s investments. Gold has a negative correlation with equities and this helps in diversifying the portfolio in a convenient way. Whenever the equity side of the portfolio goes through a

bearish phase, the notional loss on the same can be offset to an extent by the gold side.

Almost every Indian household owns gold in some quantity or other.

With our banking system lacking reach, particularly in rural areas, households use gold jewellery as a saving mechanism. Farmers purchase jewellery post-harvest and used them to raise funds for seeds and fertiliser in the next season.

The economics was simple; buy gold when you have a surplus, and sell or pledge the gold when you need cash.

Physical gold is still the most common form of investment in gold. The advantage is, you can keep it with you, you can touch it, and you can always take it out to admire its lustre and beauty. It is as real as it gets.

Within physical gold, jewellery is the most preferred route but this incurs a higher cost by way of making charges. However, gold jewellery is not only an investment, it also amounts to “consumption” as when when you choose to wear it. In this aspect, it is similar to investing in a residential property, which allows you to live in it (consumption) and which is also likely to appreciate in value over time (investment). Gold in bullion form has a lower component of “making charges”, hence it is cheaper to acquire than jewellery.

Bullion also fetches a better price in a sale as it can be easily valued and assayed, without much of wastage. Unlike investment in real estate which requires a bigger outlay of money, or equities which require paperwork and a high-risk appetite, investing in gold is easier and does not need large sums of money to get started.

Other forms of holding gold

Gold can also be bought through

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BUSINESS

Gold can also be bought through financial instruments or paper gold, such as gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), sovereign gold bonds, gold mutual funds etc. Investing in gold ETFs is cost-efficient as it does not incur ‘making charges’, storage concerns, and security and liquidity risks are not there.

financial instruments or paper gold, such as gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), sovereign gold bonds, gold mutual funds etc. Investing in gold ETFs is cost-efficient as it does not incur ‘making charges’, storage concerns, and security and liquidity risks are not there. In fact, their selling points are low initial cost, high liquidity, no risk of loss on account of theft and spurious gold, and lower taxation. At the same time, there are some costs associated with gold ETFs such as expense ratio or management fees (usually 1%), brokerage, and trading costs. The more experienced investors who wish to leverage their exposure to gold may

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opt for futures and options on gold.

However, this route is not advisable for retail investors lacking the technical knowledge to manage the risks involved in such trades.

Sovereign Gold Bonds are another form of paper golds which the government issues, every two or three months for a week. On redemption, sovereign gold bonds do not attract tax, while physical gold attracts a tax of 20 per cent after applying indexation. These bonds also pay interest at a rate of 2.5 percent per annum payable semi-annually.

To conclude, while gold has always merited a place in one’s investment portfolio, recent innovations

have given rise to different forms of paper gold which can offer some worthwhile advantages over investing in physical gold such as greater liquidity, lower risk, the option to earn interest etc. As Dr. Y V Reddy, former Governor of the RBI, once noted, there is a lot more to gold than its colour and its attributes of providing safety, security and, under difficult circumstances, even liquidity

(V.P. Nandakumar is MD & CEO of Manappuram Finance Ltd. Views are personal.)

BUSINESS

We are increasingly seeing entrepreneurship emerging as a viable career option and some of the best students embracing ideas and converting them into institutions. Entrepreneurship has also democratised leadership and youngsters are getting a seat at the corporate table much before, the norm of the yester years. The pace of some of these ventures often defy conventional logic but very phrase does not have meaning, as we see a ‘new normal’ emerging in business.

Rajesh Nair Associate Partner, Ernst & Young LLP

It is not just starting but about scaling up

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he fascination of entrepreneurship has caught the spirit of the times. We are increasingly seeing entrepreneurship emerging as a viable career option and some of the best students embracing ideas and converting them into institutions. Entrepreneurship has also democratised leadership and youngsters are getting a seat

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at the corporate table much before, the norm of the yester years. The pace of some of these ventures often defy conventional logic but very phrase does not have meaning, as we see a ‘new normal’ emerging in business.

Crisis and calamities like the current COVID 19 scenario induce fractures which require greater repair than confronting it with the great

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idea. It requires the diligence to go back to the drawing board and rethinking a lot of the strengths that may have been the foundation of the venture itself. It is necessary for the entrepreneur to think winter when in summer.

The sky will not always be blue and neither the clouds fleecy.

You have to prepare for the winter, come what may, because the winter always comes!

But it takes far more than great ideas and innovative business models – to build an institution of repute. Popular research reminds that companies are not entering their teens anymore!

They run into closure in the first twelve years. But the more worrisome part of that research is that barely a few survive the first five years. Now, that is disturbing – not just the risk of failure but also the pace of failure. To move from the start-up to building an institution it requires an attitude

and focus that is very different from the first few years. Here are a few cognitive changes, one has to take into account.

The holy grail of execution

Idea is always the seed to that venture and one cannot underappreciate its value and necessity. But ‘execution’ is often the ‘ugly duckling’ we often tend to undermine. No idea is complete without the ability to execute it and to demonstrate the power of its virtues. If the founder of the company cannot get into the details of a ‘dirty, muddy – roll up sleeves’ plan – you have to hire that talent. While large corporates have been high on rating ‘execution’, it is time the startups understand that, it is your ability to execute that will make the difference!

The ability to think as a team

We are nurtured and schooled

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to work in cluster or groups but are always wired to think individually.

This is often the death knell of the entrepreneur. As an entrepreneur, you have to believe in the power of groups not only for doing things but also to think solutions. A collaborate mind-set helps you delegate, breed trust and breeds the value to ‘taking onus and responsibility’ not just for your actions but the collective decisions of the group – even when it was not yours! Mentally, you have to make that transition from aspiring to inspiring others!

Individual creativity to work structures

“We have a flat organisation – we don’t want creativity to be stifled in work structures!” Personally, I had heard entrepreneurs and professionals say this. Work needs order and it benefits from a structure. Delegation which is a key management necessity works best when you are structures around. In fact, fundamentally, an organisation structure facilitates more division of work, allocation of targets and makes it efficient to measure progress. Structure is required even when you are part of a rapidly changing business ecosystem or an uncertain future roadmap.

Bottom line is important

Customer acquisition, eyeballs, and sales will always reserve top places in entrepreneur minds. But as you progress beyond the idea stage, concepts like savings, burn rate (a monthly outflow) need to govern your decisions. There may be funds, who will underwrite your losses, your expansions and your customer ownership – but you need to remember that you can never make money on losses – a timely wakeup call when you ride the waves of valuation and notional value!

Besides these shifts in thinking, there are also common decision pitfalls –

Role Decisions

We have seen friends starting companies, college mates coming and even spouses joining hands in business. There is no concern in this – but you have to be clear on roles. Who takes decisions? Who is the CEO? Who looks at Finance?

Who is responsible for customer acquisition? This cannot be taken for granted or subtly understood.

Job descriptions need to be scripted!

Reward Decisions

How much should the entrepre-

neur take as salary? Should you not take a salary during the initial days?

Should I forgo my pay for the first few months/years? There are no golden rules to these decisions, but deep salient thought is necessary

Divestment decisions

During the initial years, you may be tempted to reward and advice by offering the stake in the company.

There is no shame in this, especially when there is money on the table and advice that can help you pivot on the right lines. But excessive dilution will make your organisation lose its basic character and you will see a new, unfamiliar entity emerge in front of you!

The change in focus for the young entrepreneurs will also be challenging. It may require a complete shift of mindset and the big shift in their thinking processes •From exploration to efficiency •Complete autonomy to some rules •From short term rewards to long term viability The journey may have different twists and turns for different entrepreneurs. The winners will be the ones who would have deciphered the code of scaling up and building an institution

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FINANCE

Adv Sherry Samuel Oommen is a practising lawyer at High Court of Kerala who specialises in tax and Corporate Laws.

Presently he heads the tax and corporate law practice of Nash Capital Partners. Apart from being a qualified lawyer, he is also a chartered accountant, cost accountant and a company secretary. He is currently pursuing his Doctorate Degree and is reachable at sherryoommen@nashcp.com.

The MSME Bill was tabled in the Parliament with the aim of “facilitating the promotion and development and enhancing the competitiveness of small and medium enterprises”. The Act amongst its various objectives also includes making provisions for ensuring timely and smooth flow of credit to small and medium enterprises with a view of minimizing the incidence of sickness among the MSMEs and enhancing the competitiveness of such enterprises.

MSME ACT– A WILE COLLECTION MANEUVER

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ith uncertainty writ large owing to the recent pandemic and with a view helping industry, the Union Government in March 2020 increased the threshold for initiating insolvency proceedings under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (“IBC” or “the Code”) from INR 100,000 to INR 10,000,000. Further, the Government in the ordinance dated 05.06.2020, titled “The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020”, with a view to prevent corporate persons which are experiencing distress on account of the present unprecedented situation being pushed into insolvency proceedings under the IBC, has sought to suspend the provisions of sections 7, 8 and 9 for a minimum period of

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six months, which is extendable up to one year. In view of these changing realities, given the suspension of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy laws, does that imply that Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (“MSME”) have run out of options, especially since the Code was the preferred collection stratagem, especially in the case of undisputed debts.

Objective of the MSME act

The MSME Bill was tabled in the Parliament with the aim of “facilitating the promotion and development and enhancing the competitiveness of small and medium enterprises”.

The Act amongst its various objectives also includes making provisions for ensuring timely and smooth flow of credit to small and medium enterprises with a view of minimizing the incidence of sickness among the

MSMEs and enhancing the competitiveness of such enterprises.

The broad legal provisions

In this article, I wish to pen some of my thoughts on the avenues that one could explore under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Act, 2006 (“MSME Act” or “the Act”) as a tool for collection of debts.

The alternatives available under the MSME Act has become an option that Operational Creditors would need to consider especially in light of the revised limits. For instance, the Act provides that any buyer who fails to make payment to MSMEs, as per agreed terms or a maximum of 45 days, would be liable to pay monthly compounded interest at three times the bank rate notified

by RBI. Section 23 of the MSME Act

provides that interest payable on account of the default is not admissible as a deduction for income tax purposes. Further, Section 24 of the Act provides that in the event of there being any inconsistency, the MSME Act would override any other law, thereby.

As a precursor, it is pertinent to note that the Hon’ble Supreme Court in the case of Power Machine India Limited AIR 2017 SC 2567 has upheld the constitutionality of some of the key provisions of the Act. For instance, Rule 5 of the Madhya Pradesh Micro and Small Enterprise Facilitation Council Rules, 2006 provided that the amount payable by the Debtor can be recovered as arrears of land revenue.

The said Rule was challenged before the Hon’ble Supreme Court in the case of Power Machines (supra). In the said case, the Hon’ble Supreme Court upheld the validity of Rule 5, having regard to the objectives of the Act. This judgment is indeed a short in the arm for MSMEs, as they review their collection strategies.

In the ensuing paragraphs, I wish to delve into some of the key legal provisions of the MSME Act: • As mentioned above, under the Act, a Debtor is bound to make the

payment within the timelines prescribed. In the absence on agreement, a Debtor is bound to make within 45 days from the date of receipt of goods or services.

• In the event the Debtor fails to effect the payment as above, the Operational Creditor is required to make a reference to the Micro and Small Enterprises Facilitation Council (“the Council”) under section 18 of the Act. • Once a reference is made, the Council offers a chance for the parties to enter into a settlement through conciliation. If the conciliation proceedings fail, the matter is referred to arbitration by the Council. As a key feature, section 18(5) of the MSME Act provides that the reference would need to be decided within a period of 90 days from the date of making the reference, thereby making the entire process time-bound. I wish to add the constitutionality of the provisions of section 18 of the MSME Act has been upheld by the Hon’ble Madras High Court in the case of Refex Energy Limited 2016 SCCOnline Mad 4912.

• Additionally, the Council has powers to act as an Arbitrator or a Conciliator as long as the Operational Creditor falls within the jurisdiction of the Council. Hence, even if

the Debtor/ Buyer falls outside the jurisdiction of the Council, the latter would still have the power to act as an Arbitrator or a Conciliator.

• Once an award is passed, the execution of the award is in accordance with the provisions of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996.

In this context, section 19 of the Act provides that a defaulter cannot appeal against the award unless the appellant deposits at least 75% of the award before filing an appeal. The Hon’ble Supreme Court in the case of Goodyear India Limited 2012 (2) CTC 829 has upheld the requirement of effecting the said deposit of 75 percent. It may also be noted that Section 28 of the MSME Act provides that the offences of the defaulter shall be tried by the Metropolitan Magistrate or Magistrate of First Class or courts of higher hierarchy.

As apparent, it is indeed avowal that the MSME Act offers benefits unparalleled in view of the overriding provisions, specifically provided under section 29 of the Act. It is undoubtedly apodictic that the Act offers a quicker and a far more cost effective resolution process in comparison with the traditional avenues available, for instance, through filing of a suit for recovery of dues

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POST-COVID INDIA:

CHALLENGES AND PRIORITIES

SAM PITRODA

This article is prepared

by Mansoor Palloor, based on Sam Pitroda’s speech in a webinar organised at Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Development Studies.

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It is the high time to think how the country will adjust with the post-Covid-19 world. In that matter, not only India but also the entire world needs to prepare for a big change. Actually, this crisis is a warning from nature. We, humans, have gone astray. It is the high time to right the wrongs.

I

t is encouraging to see that all of us have started using digital technology when a demand has emerged because of the present period’s special circumstance.

Considering the difficulty involved in travelling long distance only to meet Rahul Gandhi for few minutes, I used to ask him why couldn’t we use the possibility of digital platform – especially the possibility of video calling.It is natural to feel that it is impossible to conduct a video conference in a perfectly inclusive manner. But, this crisis period has taught us that the said feeling was wrong.

It is impossible to ignore

the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi when talking about the use of digital technology. Around thirty years have passed since he left us. I feel very fortunate and proud to have had the opportunity to work with him in the area of technology for more than ten years.

I had the opportunity to channelize the political will Rajiv Gandhi had, towards IT and telecom missions. It was during that period the seed for Modern India was sown. We now enjoy the fruit of that seed in the forms of the benefits brought in by Liberalisation and Privatisation. We were able to sow seeds like this every year. At

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first, it was through Indira Gandhi, and later via Rajiv Gandhi. Today, most of us may have forgotten those achievements. It was during the Rajiv Gandhi administration that Polio was completely eradicated.

It is the high time to think how the country will adjust with the postCovid-19 world. In that matter, not only India but also the entire world needs to prepare for a big change.

Actually, this crisis is a warning from nature. We, humans, have gone astray. It is the high time to right the wrongs. Day by day, the total number of Covid-19 cases are increasing in the country. This trend exposes the flaws in the national plan to fight the outbreak. The inability to collect data

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effectively is another big issue. The testing capability is still limited. But, what we hear in the news and elsewhere is very different from what is the reality. Needless to say, there is no surprise in that. Unfortunately, as per my opinion, the number of Covid-19 cases may increase in the coming months. We have to be very careful, and must be ready to face any adversity. Anyway, we should hope for the best. We should not forget the selfless service of doctors and other heath workers. The country owes them.

Another thing that boggles my mind at present is the image of guest workers desperately travelling to their homes. It is heart-breaking to

see thousands of guest workers helplessly walking back to their homes along with their family members and children. As an Indian, I feel great shame for the irresponsible way in which these people who are in dire straits have been treated by us. It was these people who played a pivotal role in the materialisation of the rapid infrastructural upgrade the country achieved – in the form of buildings, roads and bridges. This is a huge shame, shame on all Indians.

In reality, the future of the country is in their hands.

The present crisis has led us to the realisation that the guest worker issue is an important issue which needs to be viewed through a humanitarian perspective. We need to shift our focus to these people who are economically weak. Still, millions of our people are well below the poverty line. I am currently working on a book which discusses about the re designing of the world. I have been working on this book for long, but the three-month-long lockdown has led to the completion of the work. I am seventy-eight years old. I haven’t been out of the house for the past eleven weeks. There are many doctors in my family. They have advised me strictly to say at my home. Here in the US, all the essentials are available at the door step. My family and I are very keen to follow all measures imposed to fight the crisis. Fortunately, I was able to use this lockdown period a lot more effectively.

The paradigm that the lives in today was founded post world war 2 .The United States was the one which led that process. Democracy, nation states, human, rights, capitalism, consumption,multi nationals and military power were the main elements of the US-led re design. Now, it is time to re design the world once again. I believe that India – as well as Kerala – can play a leadership role in that ambitious process. Kerala can even function as a testing platform for those ground-breaking ideas the country wants to put before the world.

But, now the big question before us is what should be those ideas.

The big challenge is that those ideas should not be the repetition of the old ones. What it implies is simple a new paradigm should be created. The new pattern should be based on equality ,bottom up development and should be capable to address all existing concerns. Whatever the case, the world will never walk again in its old shoes.

Globalisation, to an extent, was disappointing. This does not mean that the concept should be discarded as useless. The distribution system must be globalised. The big question that needs an answer urgently is how can it be implemented.

We all know that China is the main hub of global production. I do not mean to follow a Chinese model.

Instead, my suggestion is to create a new Indian model. One of the reasons that makes Gandhiji exceptional is his clear vision about the future of

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the country. He had a clear understanding about the development of the country. It is high time to recall the extra-ordinary ideals of Gandhian values. Each district in the country has at least two lakh people. We need to develop a district-centred administration. What we need is not a district-centred development, but an administrative structure. Each district must be provided its own hospitals, university and its own water supply system, and must be provided a district-centred authoritative system.

It was one of those extra-ordinary ideas that Rajiv Gandhi envisioned.

We talk about the Panchayat Raj system often. It is the high time to strengthen this system. Kerala can certainly lead this revolution. It has proved its calibre several times in the past. The next important matter is development. What we need is the kind of development which is focused on the poor, not the kind of development we witness now. It is an undeniable fact that the main beneficiary of the present model is the rich. The same is the problem with globalisation. No benefit reaches the poor. We have made so many billionaires, but not much has been done to uplift the poor from the pit of miseries.

The third important thing is technology. We are not using technology efficiently. We need to become more efficient in our use of technology. The fourth important thing is localisation. The DNA code of local capabilities needs to be identified, and a model based on that needs to be developed. A gene pool better than that of Kerala cannot be found anywhere else. The state’s unique strength comes from the years of biological evolution the state has undergone. That speciality is what the state is losing because of excessive use of fertilisers and other harmful items come from outside. A rethink is inevitable in this matter.

We must preserve the gene pools of plants, Ayurvedic medicinal plants and spices. Each state has its own unique gene pool. That is where localisation matters.

To illustrate, the tomatoes I eat here in Chicago travel over fourteen

thousand kilometres before they arrive at my food table. It is because of globalisation. I do not agree with such globalisation. Why can’t this vegetable be produced locally? If it is a microchip, we can understand the difficulty involved. We need to realise that we are in so much complexity when it comes to localisation and globalisation.

We have to build the basic infrastructure for education, electricity and health. Each district should be offered free hand to decide on the matters concerned to the said ar-

Our thought process is still limited to the IMF, foreign investment, GDP and the WTO. This is a model designed as many as seventy-five years ago.

It is unlikely that such a model would work in the present world.

eas. Instead of focusing on the richcentric development paradigm, we need to focus on the poor-centric one. The implementation of these schemes, whether in the area of port development, agriculture or education, is a major concern globally. That is where Rajiv Gandhi’s view becomes relevant. We need to find the best people, put them into projects and bright things to fruition. In the area of health service, Kerala has been the number one for many years. The state has been able to achieve many positives that many other states have failed to secure. As a secular, educated and hardworking society, the state can do many things for the country. Therefore, institutions like the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Development Studies have to take up the challenge of designing a new model for the country. Of course, I would love to share my ideas and opin-

ions on this matter and be a part of this pathbreaking effort. The book I am writing now addresses some of the aforesaid issues. Our thought process is still limited to the IMF, foreign investment, GDP and the WTO. This is a model designed as many as seventy-five years ago. It is unlikely that such a model would work in the present world. Technology has created an invisible link between human beings in a way the world has never witnessed in its history. We need to think seriously how we can use it for the betterment of education. Henceforth, we should not allow anyone to preach about the concept of classroom. Because, those who still talk about that concept are those who still want to follow that old concept and preserve that. My nine-year-old granddaughter has started using web technology at her school in San Francisco.

Though the first two weeks were a little difficult for her, she has adjusted with the new normal better. I feel that everything is going to change in the world. In fact, I love these changes. Some of us are already fed up with the concept of office going. Change must come within ourselves. Internet is a hub of knowledge. What we need now is just an element of curiosity to acquire knowledge. Now, the whole world is reduced to a mouse click.

The same is true for us during the present Covid-19 crisis. Everything is about to change. Do you know how much laborious a process is getting up early and going to work in the morning? This Covid-19 period has taught us that there is enormous potential in the concept of work-at-home. Change must come, and that must come from within.

Surely, internet will work as an instrument for that change. What the present crisis showcases is not anything different. Prepare for a change for the better. It is hoped that the present crisis is the beginning of a change. Ultimately, only two things matter: this earth, and its people. It is our duty to protect it. Each one of us should rationally introspect ourselves whether we are doing our basic duty properly or not

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BUSINESS

By Jiz P Kottukappally Chief Executive Officer Yescalator Management and Financial Consultants

Marginal costing helps not only in fixing the minimum selling price. For firms dealing with multiple products marginal costing helps in finding out an optimum product/sales mix which would help maximise the profit of the firm.

Mob No 75588 91177 Email Jizpk@yescalator.com

Marginal Costing-A vital tool for business decision making

O

ne of the things I have been doing regularly during the COVID lockdown period has been to talk to people from various industries to understand how things have been shaping up in their business post the lockdown announcement in March.

I had one such interaction with my friend in the event management industry recently after the lockdown relaxations were brought in. He mentioned that the peak wedding season has been completely wiped off. Of late, people are learning to live with the Covid around and marriages have started picking up in a small way. Though this was good news for the event management industry he was very annoyed that some players in the industry were under quoting for these events with discounts offered being in the range of more than 50%. Works which were quoted at more than Rs. 3 lakhs few months back were now quoted at Rs 1.50 to 1.60 lakh, which is very worrisome was what he mentioned.

I consoled my friend saying that the event management company which

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quoted Rs 1.50 would be having a smart CFO or a smart financial advisor who has applied marginal costing while submitting the quotation. It was for the first time that my friend was hearing about marginal costing.

Though he did not know anything about marginal costing till then, my comments made him very curious to know what marginal costing was and how it can be applied for pricing decisions. It took me more than an hour for explaining to him the concept of marginal costing and its practical applications in business decision making.

Understanding Marginal Costing

According to the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants, London, “Marginal Costing is the ascertainment, by differentiating between fixed costs and variable costs, of marginal cost and of the effect of profit of changes in the volume or type of output.� From the above definition, it can be seen that marginal costing involves ascertaining the marginal cost by classifying cost into fixed costs and variable costs.

Based on this classification of costs marginal costing tries to capture the total costs and profits for various levels of activity. Marginal costing is a principle whereby variable costs are charged to cost units and the fixed costs attributable to the relevant period is written off in full against the contribution for that period.

Marginal costing is a process whereby costs are classified into fixed and variable costs for facilitating managerial decision making.

Variable costs vary with volume of production. But, fixed costs remain unchanged irrespective of changes in the volume of production, up to a certain level. It is to be noted that the variable cost per unit remains the same for various levels of production and total variable cost changes in direct proportion with the number of units produced. On the contrary, total fixed cost remains same irrespective of units produced and fixed cost per unit reduces with increase in production.

Under marginal costing

Variable Cost + Contribution = Selling Price, and

Contribution = Fixed Costs + Profits By applying the process of marginal costing and properly classifying the costs into fixed and variable costs a firm can decide a price below which it will not sell under any circumstances. Ideally the firm should be fixing the selling price above the total cost which is the sum of variable and fixed cost. Then only the firm will be making profits. But, in the short term and special circumstances like the post COVID lockdown, where uncertainties are looming at large regarding future income and people are preferring to holding on to cash rather than spending it and the purchasing power of the ordinary man has come down drastically it would be prudent on the part of business enterprises to adopt marginal costing for pricing of their products. In the current circumstances, the first priority of the organisations should be to curtail their losses and then making profits. For this if any item of cost seems to be irrelevant, it should be ignored and should not be taken into account in determining the price. Thus, as a short-term strategy price may be fixed as below cost, based on the application of marginal costing. But,

the price that is fixed should cover all variable costs and some part of fixed cost.

For example, in the above mentioned case, let us assume that for the event management company the break up of costs are as follows: Variable costs Rs 1.10 lakh, and Fixed costs 1.30 lakh. Now, if the price quoted by the event management company for the event is Rs 1.50 lakh, the company will be recovering the full variable cost of Rs 1.10 lakh and also Rs 40,000 towards fixed costs. Assuming that there are no other events during the month the firm will be reducing its loss for the month by Rs 40,000 and the loss will be Rs 90,000 (1,30,000 minus 40,000). But, if the firm sticks to its policy of recovering the full cost from all the events the minimum price would be Rs 2.40 lakh.

Clearly, this would have been beyond the budget of the customer, and the firm will lose the order and the loss for the month would have been Rs 1.30 lakh.

Practical Applications of Marginal Costing in Business

From the above example, it can be seen that by applying the process

of marginal costing a firm can arrive at the price below which it should not sell or transact any business. Any sales below the variable costs will only increase the losses of the firm.

Continuing with the same example if the event management company in its aggression to gain business and get some cash flows quotes Rs 1 lakh for the event the firm will be making a loss of Rs 1.40 lakh during the month (excess of variable cost over selling price 10,000 plus unrecovered fixed cost of Rs 1.30 lakh).

Such sales should not be resorted to under any circumstances.

Marginal costing helps not only in fixing the minimum selling price.

For firms dealing with multiple products marginal costing helps in finding out an optimum product/sales mix which would help maximise the profit of the firm. Marginal costing also helps in taking make or buy decisions, market expansion decisions and deciding on optimum level of production. Application of marginal costing principle will assist a firm in taking informed decisions regarding product continuation, temporary suspension of activities, rolling out sales promotion activities, distributor incentives and discount offers to customersď Ź

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MOTIVATION

Dolly Neena Dolly Neena is founder of THE IGNIST, a training company born out of a noble cause and spirit.

She holds a decade long experience being a passionate mentor and entrepreneur.

The society does not expect you to be at your best now.

They all understand the global crisis, and don’t even bother to outsmart your own expectations now. This is a time to sit and reflect. This is a time to slow down and analyse. This is a time to survive, not really to excel. Hang on and Stay Strong!

You will definitely emerge a winner!

COPING WITH THE ‘NEW NORMAL’

I

t’s a new normal that we need to adapt onto now. The previous weeks had been disruptive and for this generation, something that haven’t experienced before. The last destructive pandemic in this scale had been in the beginning of this century, which most of us have not endured. The community has to settle into this “new normal” and we may have to bear in mind that this might be for a longer time than we expect, hence preparation is the key. Our routines are upheaved with isolation and lockdown, and thus the level of adaptation we need to bring into life now is high. As Covid-19 is highly contagious and infectious and is not related to a certain lifestyle, and humans have not found out a new vaccine to fight it, we are uncertain about the near future at least.

Here is what we mean by settling into the new normal. In this time of unprecedented uncertainty, we need to adapt to the lifestyle, mental and professional changes the current

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situation demands from us.

Normally, a new pattern has to emerge when people evolve themselves into new habits, new behaviours will be born. Very urgent requirements have been posed to the mankind to increase immunity, with work-life balance, diet, mental health, exercises and healthy lifestyle. During this distress times, the news from all across the globe is proving that mental health has definitely affected our societies. There had been waves of depression and even several suicides across. Days and weeks looked like forever, certainly so in March. Now that slowly as business are getting out into the market, reaching out to and with a crowd whose mindsets have altered or threatened, we need to adapt to new changes in order to survive. As we cannot determine the extent and depth of this now, risk analysis and adaptability is important. The prediction is that the stronger will get stronger; the weak may have to exit

and re-analyse their current business model.

Markets are undergoing huge financial crisis; companies declaring bankrupt - many closing down.

Employees are sacked in thousands.

There is always a silver lining amidst the clouds still, anytime in life. If you fight valiantly against the odds, history has shown that life will always bring in miracles for you. Hence make the next moves with prudence.

Individuals now need to be more careful and be conservative on their spending behaviour. Policy reviews are needed in organisations. Cutting down the employee numbers to core group is essential, as the other might lead to overheads. Upskilling the employees to cope with the distress is another need. Customers also would be mentally shaky, hence here you need to be more empathetic with them. Even though it’s more than half a year now we have been combating with the crisis, we are not still sure for how long more. Busi-

ness leaders will have to imagine the unthinkable, device contingency plans those never existed.

Better connectivity and relationships can work much. In this new normal, going digital is one way to survive. The amount of digital transformation in the past few months has been enormous.

There is a big push to get a platform online and do more of connecting and selling online. We migrated into an online world, hoping to stay with customers giving them assurance that you are there, connecting with them remotely. Working from home has also become the new normal. Embrace and learn all new technological change happening in the market now, yes mostly online, adapt to it by using it for your own benefit.

Accept it or not, we might have to literally learn to survive in this ambiguity and uncertainty. It’s not only because there is

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MOTIVATION no other option left for you, but also to float without dying in this turbulent times. There is a pre-pandemic stage, post-pandemic stage and there would be a recovery stage as well. Biggest uncertainty will be on the customer demand side. We are yet to know the customer behaviour patterns through and after the pandemic. It is important to stock attractive offerings, despite of the loss. Establishing better customer relationships should be a priority now. Keep connected online, send them voice messages and mails.

Thank them for being with you all these years, and seek their support as well. Positive trends will keep emerging in between the challenges.

Implementing new work guidelines in line with the health department is also important. This is a time you will have to use the skills you haven’t mastered, even those skills

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you haven’t even acquired yet. This is the time to emphasize on your niche, what you are stronger at. We can either simply complain and die down, or rather choose to fight this adversity and emerge out stronger.

Assessing you current mindset in regular intervals is mandatory.

Mental health is a global concern, while everyone is succumbing to the financial and social stress. Hence, please do expose yourself only to factful information, not fake news that would stress you more. Understand and analyse the current situation, and take precautionary measures on health and safety, and business sustenance. Working from home can be in flexible hours. Do remember how you have successfully handled the past problems and changes, and resolve to surf through this one as well. You need a paradigm shift – adopt another way

of thinking as such. Like someone rightly commented, coming out alive this year itself is the primary success of all. If in great stress, identify someone whom you can effectively talk with and do not hide your concerns and feelings. You never know what or who might come of help to you in distress. Need of change can happen anytime. As we all know already, for an entrepreneur change is unavoidable. Please remember to take a mental break, slow the thought train a bit. The society does not expect you to be at your best now. They all understand the global crisis, and don’t even bother to outsmart your own expectations now. This is a time to sit and reflect.

This is a time to slow down and analyse. This is a time to survive, not really to excel. Hang on and Stay Strong! You will definitely emerge a winner!

SPIRITUAL ODYSSEY

C

hildren, there are a lot of people in this world walking around feeling guilty about all the mistakes they’ve made, knowingly and unknowingly. Many of them succumbed to depression and other mental problems. Some of them even commit suicide.

Many people who visit temples and go on pilgrimages, are looking for forgiveness from their wrongdoings. But very few find true peace from the guilt that haunts their mind.

Wallowing in regret and sadness over mistakes we’ve made can be compared to hugging and crying over a dead body. No matter how much we cry, it will not return to life. Similarly, no matter how much we try, we will never be able to go back in time and undo our mistakes.

Time only moves forward.

When children get a small cut, they usually scratch it repeatedly and make the wound worse. It eventually gets to a point when they can no longer stand the pain. Repeatedly telling yourself, “I made these mistakes. I am a sinner” is just like this. It transforms a small wound into serious disease. It will never bring peace of mind.

In any circumstance, we must think practically. If we happen to fall, we must not stay on the ground, crying.

Simply get up and continue to walk. Take every step with caution. Don’t lose hope.

A reporter asked a famous

farmer, “What is the secret of your success?”

The farmer answered, “Taking right decisions.”

Again the reporter asked, “How could you make right decisions?”

“Experience.”

“How did you gain experience?”

“From making wrong decisions.”

The practical experience the farmer received from making wrong decisions helped him make the right decisions. Then, when he made the right decisions, he succeeded. This farmer’s story teaches us that even wrong decisions become stepping stones to success.

This present moment is the only wealth we possess.

Only in the present moment can we undo our mistakes and follow the path of goodness. When we become sad thinking about the past, we are wasting the invaluable present moment.

It isn’t important to know how we lived or what we did.

What is most important is how well we choose to use our present time. This is what dictates our life path.

Therefore, take a solid oath not to repeat your mistakes.

If it is possible, take the necessary steps to undo those mistakes or make amends.

Then walk ahead with focus on your goal. This is what is needed.

Amma, Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi

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HEALTH

Dr Arun Oommen MBBS, MS (Gen Surg), Mch( Neurosurgery), MRCSEd, MBA Consultant Neurosurgeon, VPS Lakeshore Hospital Kochi, India

Fibromyalgia is characterised by chronic widespread pain and allodynia (a heightened and painful response to pressure). Other symptoms include debilitating fatigue, sleep disturbance, and joint stiffness. Some people also report difficulty with swallowing, bowel and bladder abnormalities, numbness and tingling and cognitive dysfunction.

Pain may be localized in areas such as the shoulders, neck, low back, hips, or other areas. Not all people with fibromyalgia experience all associated symptoms.

Facts about Fibromyalgia F

ibromyalgia is a common and disturbing ailment. Fibromyalgia is estimated to affect 2–8% of the population, with a female to male incidence ratio of approximately 9:1. Fibromyalgia is basically a functional somatic syndrome ie a physical response to depression and stress.

Exact cause is unknown but is believed to involve psychological, genetic, neurobiological and environmental factors. The same genes causing fibromyalgia are also associated with other functional somatic syndromes and major depressive disorder. The central symptom of fibromyalgia, namely widespread pain, appears to result from neuro-chemical imbalances including activation of inflammatory pathways in the brain which results in abnormalities in pain processing.

Fibromyalgia patients have a lower threshold for pain because of increased reactivity of pain-sensitive nerve cells in the spinal cord or brain. Neuropathic pain and major

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depressive disorder often co-occur with fibromyalgia – the reason for this comorbidity appears to be due to shared genetic abnormalities, Neurochemical abnormalities that occur in fibromyalgia also regulate mood, sleep and energy, thus explaining why mood, sleep and fatigue problems are commonly co-morbid with fibromyalgia Mode of inheritance is currently unknown, but it is most probably polygenic.

Fibromyalgia is characterised by chronic widespread pain and allodynia (a heightened and painful response to pressure). Other symptoms include debilitating fatigue, sleep disturbance, and joint stiffness.

Some people also report difficulty with swallowing, bowel and bladder abnormalities, numbness and tingling and cognitive dysfunction.

Pain may be localized in areas such as the shoulders, neck, low back, hips, or other areas. Not all people with fibromyalgia experience all associated symptoms.

Fibromyalgia is frequently associated with stress-related disorders such as chronic fatigue syndrome, posttraumatic stress disorder, irritable bowel syndrome and depression.

A systematic review found significant association between fibromyalgia and physical and sexual abuse in both childhood and adulthood. Poor lifestyles including being a smoker, obesity and lack of physical activity may increase the risk of an individual developing fibromyalgia.

Diagnosis-

Fibromyalgia basically is a clinical diagnosis. Blood tests and radiological tests may be normal.

To meet the fibromyalgia criteria for diagnosis, patients must have: (90% accuracy in diagnosis) A. Widespread pain in all four quadrants of the body for a minimum of three months B. At least 11 of the 18 specified tender points The 18 sites used for the fibromyalgia diagnosis cluster around the

neck, shoulder, chest, hip, knee, and elbow regions. The finger pressure that your doctor must apply to these areas during an examination is just enough to cause the nail bed to blanch or become white.

When light pressure is applied to the surface of the muscles throughout the body, patients with fibromyalgia find this painful, especially at the specific tender point areas used for diagnosis.

Treatment

There is no universally accepted treatment for Fibromyalgia.

Moreover, response to treatment is all poor and inconsistent. Treatment plans that incorporate medication, patient education, aerobic exercise and cognitive-behavioural therapy have been shown to be effective in alleviating pain and other fibromyalgia-related symptoms.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and related psychological and be-

havioural therapies have a small to moderate effect in reducing symptoms of fibromyalgia. The greatest benefit occurs when Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is used along with exercise.

Medications commonly used include anti-depressants like duloxetine and milnacipran and the tricyclic anti-depressants (amitriptyline). Anti-seizure medication like gabapentin and pregabalin may be used. Weak opioid like tramadol may be tried but not strong opioids. The combination of tramadol and paracetemol has demonstrated efficacy. The use of NSAIDs is not recommended as first line therapy.

May be a combination of anti-depressants and anti-epileptics for 3-6 months may be required to produce some improvement in symptoms.

Exercise improves fitness and sleep, and may reduce pain and fatigue in some people with fibromy-

algia. In particular, there is strong evidence that cardiovascular exercise is effective for some patients.

Long-term aquatic-based exercise has been proven beneficial as it combines cardiovascular exercise with resistance training.

Note

Due to the wide range of symptoms fibromyalgia can mimic so many disease processes which can be Rheumatological, neurological, gastro intestinal, urological and psychological. Hence an extensive workup may be needed to rule out these problems. Although in itself neither degenerative nor fatal, the chronic pain of fibromyalgia is pervasive and persistent. Most fibromyalgia patients report that their symptoms do not improve over time. Hence such patients always switch from one Doctor to another is search of proper diagnosis and treatmentď Ź

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An Extraordinary Man In An Ordinary World S WA M I O F T H E S O U T H Dr. S. Devisree

T

he world has turned into a seething mass of ignorant souls, the truth has lost its significance, life has become barren, and everyone is searching for a ray of hope. The ultimate solution for all our woes, the solace we have been waiting for is with us to lead us towards the light, the light of knowledge.

Welcome!

You are fortunate to be near a great guru, a master, a yogi, an epitome of love and compassion, a sage who has devoted his life for the betterment of the human race, Dr. Swami Himaval Maheshwara Bhadraanand.

One can define him as a selcouth Sanyasi with a sixth sense and sanctified powers or as a Karma Yogi on a Spiritual Quest, with a flair to study the Future of human life and its aura. But the truth is that words cannot contain the real might of this Guru.

Dr. Swami Bhadraanand is a spiritual scientist who has done 15 years of intense research on “AURA and its Implications in Human Life – Good, Bad and the Unknown”. The recognition it received around the world is truly astonishing. He offers the fruits of his research to the betterment of mankind in the form of AOA, Art of Ascetics, which enables one to experience inner evolution and bliss.

Swami Bhadraanand has experimented with his powers to manipulate the Aura of a person and find out the credibility of that person. His research on the Aura of a human being and the science of repairing a damaged Aura has been developed by him and termed as Aura Mechanism.

Swami Bhadraanand as a Seer with ESP, the extrasensory perception was honored with Mother Teresa Award from the ministry of Kerala for predicting Tsunami in 2004. The number of predictions made by him has placed him next to Nostradamus. But Swami Bhadraanand’s predictions are known for their accuracy which Nostradamus rarely possessed. He has been honoured with the degree of Doctor of Philoso-

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phy for his predictions.

This incredible personality is an embodiment of knowledge and his brave thoughts possess the revolutionary seeds of transformation, which, of course, is based on Sanatana Dharma. The serenity of a sage and the valour of a revolutionary combined, Swami Bhadraanand, is one of the greatest proponents of Vedic culture in the modern era.

He is a true visionary who is born to rejuvenate mankind by unraveling the eternal Cosmic truth to the naive human eyes. Patriotism is his creed and the wholehearted support he gives to the expats is praiseworthy.

Are you ready to plunge into the mysterious and fascinating life of our Master? Are you brave enough to experience his mighty presence? Are you a genuine seeker?

If Yes, you have reached your abode. Guru knows you are here.

A Selcouth Sanyasi With Sixth Sense And Sanctified Powers Spirituality is an intriguing matter. One must renounce everything he has in order to be successful in his spiritual journey. Spirituality is necessary only after a certain age.

It is for middle-aged people. This is the impression most of the ignorant souls in this society carries in their mind. Dr. Swami Bhadraanand laughs at these ignorant thoughts saying, well, ignorance is at times a bliss.

From ignorance to knowledge is what embodies one’s spiritual journey and for that one needs a real Guru, who can lead you through the dark alleys of inexperience to the light of knowledge. In a land, flooded with spiritual leaders, to find a genuine one with pure Siddhi is very difficult. Many exhibit their ‘service-oriented’ activities for money and fame. Swami Bhadraanand stands apart from all of them as he believes in working selflessly. His life to date is an example of self-sacrificing love and compassion for people in despair.

Dr. Swami Bhadraanand is gifted with the power to perceive the real self of a human being. One can call

it the Sixth Sense, but it is much beyond that as his ability to analyze the real human persona is unimaginable. His predictions have shaken the Indian society many times with their accuracy. The incredible gift that has been endowed to Swami Bhadraanand at a very young age has been instrumental in changing the future of many people, including several political leaders and film stars. He can simply look through one’s physical self and gauge the good and bad in their personality.

He can understand the way that the soul has been traversing through one birth to another, passing through various stages of Karma. He decodes the entire self of a person, releasing him from his Karmic bondages, leading him towards the path to fulfilling his dreams. We see a lot of preachers around us, who teach us what to do and what not to do in order to achieve Nirvana or Moksha. But no one has ever seen someone who practices the preaching in real life in order to help society. Swami Bhadraanand has warned the authorities many times about the impending danger, trying to avert the calamity.

He has been recognized by the government and many eminent organizations that chose to venerate the Guru with awards and felicitations.

Swami Bhadraanand has been against evil-minded, power-hungry people all throughout his life. This has gained him a lot of enemies. He fights against all kinds of Adharma and is very keen on the people whom he helps. He always advises his disciples to help selflessly, but only those who deserve it. This Sanyasi, who lives in disguise of a common man, is a vast cistern of knowledge.

Be a solitary walker. Be pure.

Be receptive. Be a blank notebook. Let the Universe write a beautiful tale on your pages.

The Rise of a Foreseer in the soil of Mother India Kerala is a state in the Southern part of India, where Dr. Swami Bhadraanand was born. Kerala has been called the Land of Lunatics, by Swami Vivekananda. Jagad Guru Sree Narayana also has fought against the caste system and the prejudiced mindset of the society

all throughout his life. This land has never received any spiritual master wholeheartedly. They are a suspicious bunch of people criticizing spiritual gurus as fake and their teachings as rubbish. Swami Bhadraanand has proved them wrong through his predictions. He feels that he should stand by his people, saving them from the darkness of ahamkara, helping them to lead a peaceful life. He has stood the storm and has worked relentlessly for the benefit of his people, whom he considers as his own.

This guru has been like a cloud.

He willingly absorbs all the filth that is being thrown at him by ignorant people, turns it into a rain of love and compassion and showers it over humanity in order to cleanse it.

This has been said by the Guru when he was asked about the future of the coming generations in spirituality. Swami Bhadraanand’s attempt is to rejuvenate the mankind that has fallen into the depth of ignorance from the Heights of Vedanta and Vedic culture. India is the land of the Vedas. The spiritual and cultural heritage of India has been invaded by foreign cultures which resulted in diminishing its divine radiance. Swami Bhadraanand trains the young minds to become the torchbearers of the real India, leading her to prosperity. He wants humanity to be aware of the single source that has produced the whole world. “Vasudhaiva Kudumbakam”, the whole world is one single family, should be our watchword says Swami Bhadraanand.

He also aims to document the spiritual evolution of mankind starting from the very first generation.

He believes that this will help people realize that they all belong to the Vedic brotherhood. He scientifically explains the dense philosophical concepts to his students with a pinch of humor, so as to make it palpable for the modern youth. Swami Bhadraanand is backed by a group of generous students and is waiting for more who can join him in this noble cause. “This attempt can definitely bring peace in the world which is what humanity needs most now,” he once said.

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It is the aura of a person that needs correction. Swami Bhadraanand has done immense sadhanas to unravel the truth of the Vedas.

His enlightened self has been drawn towards ancient gurus who lived in the snowclad mountains of the Himalayas and the knowledge he gained from them helps him in cleansing one’s aura. This ancient Vedic ritual is an exclusive service he is rendering humanity, through which he cleanses the energy of a soul, giving the person a fulfilling future.

A Sacred Birth That Has Been Hunted Ruthlessly Call him, a social worker, a critic, a revolutionist, a benefactor of the poor and above all an ardent spiritual yogi; he is the embodiment of all these traits put into one, a legendary epitome of the modern era.

The Revolutionary protector Swami Bhadraanand’s roots of spiritual inheritance stems from his maternal forefathers. His great grandfather Nani Ashaan was a true-blue, sedulous and die-hard accomplice of Sree Narayana Guru. From the time of Sree Narayana Guru’s presence in the celestial place of Aruvipuram, Nani Ashaan was the concierge and disciple for the Guru. Sree Narayana Guru and his ardent disciple Nani Ashaan, together, installed the famous and controversial Shiva Linga, materializing the initiation of the Shiva temple in Aruvipuram.

Shri. N. Rama Panicker son of Nani Ashaan was Swami Bhadraanand’s maternal grandfather, a devout Shiva Yogi, his maternal great grandmother, an ardent devotee of Parvathi Devi and his maternal uncles who were all famed Tantrics and renowned Yogis. The spiritual inheritance is said to affect even the genes of coming generations, no wonder how Swami Bhadraanand has been gifted with Sixth Sense and spiritual enlightenment. He calls himself a Spiritual Beggar, as he owns nothing in this world. In a land where the socalled spiritual masters enjoy a luxurious life, he stands alone, without even having a home of his own.

Swami Bhadraanand can be considered as the most hunted Hindu mystic in the history of India. He has been courageously facing the anger

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of the media who always tried to tarnish his image. His identity has been presented in the wrong way before the entire world by a group of people with vested interests. The prejudiced society chose to believe the paid media, ignoring the great serviceoriented mind of this Guru whose only aim was to help the needy. It was Swami Bhadraanand’s fearlessness that threatened the political and religious criminals who paid the media to ruin his life.

The print media with vested interests used their pens to discredit the truthful, loving, righteous and compassionate person, Swami Bhadraanand, portraying him as a low criminal and an outlaw. A leading Malayalam daily, “Mangalam” and its staff, especially Mr. Stephen Arikkara, a hired goon of Mangalam Daily were behind this. The master brain behind tarnishing Swami Bhadraanand in all the possible ways through the media was D. Dhanasumod who has been backed by Mr. Raju Paul, the bureau chief of Mangalam Daily. The worst image portrayed about Swami Bhadraanand by Sreejith Augustin of Mathrubhumi Daily was of an immoral man having an illicit relationship with women which in fact reflected his own filthy character. In truth, Swami Bhadraanand was living with his mother and this allegation was propagandized by Sreejith which tarnished Swami Bhadraanand’s character irreparably.

But what can ignorant minds plot against the SON of GOD? He shines through all these like a sun, with his immense spiritual power and divine grace.

Presently he is facing threats from the extremists belonging to all religions because he had openly discussed the blind illogical teachings, issues and the heinous crimes undertaken by some of them. The main agenda of extremists is to start a communal riot in the country for personal gains. We cannot forget the fact that India is a country that has been partitioned in the name of religion. Swami Bhadraanand’s sole mission is to educate people against the hatred and violence caused in the name of religion. The vision be-

hind his teachings and criticisms against communal rifts is to bring in harmony in human thoughts. He wants people to understand the fact that all are one in this universe and should be given the right to live as one race. This makes him the revolutionary sage that he is.

Swami Bhadraanand is a lone warrior. He never tries to befriend cast chieftains, political principals, religious leaders, sectarian gangsters or party-political agitators – he chooses to traverse his own path.

He is never afraid of criticism or negative publicity; he laughs his hurt away and smiles; he follows his conscience which he says is God; and willingly accepts the unjustified abuse from the ignorant society. As Swami Bhadraanand practices spirituality and Sindhu culture, which teaches love rather than the extremist ideologies of these terrorist groups, they consider him as their enemy and rival. There have been three murder attempts against him to date which shows the intolerance of the extremists. Still, the valiant son of Sanatana Dharma is fighting them through the media as he is a journalist as well.

The Divine Transformation at a Glance It was on 22 September 1982 that Mr. Hemachandran and Dr. Madhuja were blessed with a little boy. He was a baby with a certain peculiar kind of energy encircling his physical presence. This was sure to happen as he was born into a family of yogis. They named him Arun Chand. He grew up into a naughty lad, who was good at everything including studies and extracurricular activities. He was everybody’s favorite. His amazing sense of humor, ability to mimic sounds, a keen sense of observation which later turned into drawings and dancing were a feast to everyone’s eye. They adored him more and more as he grew up.

As a teenager, he became interested in cars and bike racing.

He loved speed, maybe because he himself was thinking much ahead of time. His friends never understood the inner being, of this cheerful boy, that longed for something. He him-

self was at a loss to find what it was that he really needed. Nothing could give him absolute pleasure or happiness. He would look up to the sky with angst to know why the material world could no longer make him happy and why he was always drawn towards the unanswerable questions regarding existence. He wanted an answer and hence followed his inner voice always. He knew that the truth was hidden somewhere inside him and he only had to unravel it.

Arun Chand was an engineering student, heading towards the completion of his Bachelors and he could no longer suppress the spiritual urge within him. It was his time to know the truth. His Guru, a fiery AGHORI, Adithya, manifested in front of him. Swami Adithya vanished with his sishya and Arun was nowhere to be found. Guru took him to the snow-clad mountains of the Himalayas in no time, remember Sadhus are neither space or timebound.

He was absent from the familiar circumstances which made his dear and near sad and frightened.

The only thing they could do was to

hope and pray for his return. The young sadhaka was enjoying the love and blessings of the great Himalayan Sadhus by then. It is believed that once a Sadhu who is eligible to acquire Moksha/ Salvation visits The Himalayas, his spiritual powers get locked there. This shall be unlocked only when a related person visits the place again. He was undergoing the same process. His siddhis were unlocked and it flowed in like a vast ocean of knowledge, awakening the real self, the real Guru, hidden within. Swami Adithya taught him the essence of Vedas and Tantric vidyas including Parakaya Pravesham. Swami Himaval Maheshwra Bhadraananda was born there, in the Himalayas.

No Sadhu will be interested to come back to the material world as they enjoy a much higher level of happiness and satisfaction in detachment. But Swami Bhadranand’s master and other sages reminded him of his duty towards his motherland, convincing him to come back to his land, Kerala. The Master spent the initial days in silence, pondering over the questions of existence. He

would meditate for hours, cleansing his aura, under a Vata Vriksha/ Banyan Tree, or by the seashore. He was never interested in going back to his old spiritual groups as he was on a higher level of perception by then.

An unknown force always guarded him, keeping him away from any sort of distraction. Finally, it was time for Swami Bhadraanand to get involved in the changes that were happening in society.

He has acquired siddhis (Special Mystical Powers) that enabled him to analyze a person in and out.

Spreading his senses well above the human conscience, the blessed one could comprehend the individual in his human form and visualize his sanctity from a spiritual state, providing resolutions that carefully untie and unite the knots of one’s “Karma”. The peace and tranquility achieved by the mere sight of Swami Bhadraanand are said to be as powerful as the brilliance equal to the blaze of a thousand suns. A highly scientific and logical mind finds safe harbor in the divine self of Swami Bhadraanand and he is known to be more of a realistic soul with a subtle, modern and concrete approach, not forsaking and negating worldly life. The spiritual guidance acknowledged by his devotees speaks volumes about the life they lead and the impediments they had overcome. The Master appears to be a friend to many of them, cracking jokes and indulging in friendly conversations, but at the same time cleansing their self with his incredible might.

Dr. Swararaj Mani was the psychiatrist who had confirmed Swami Bhadraanand’s elevated ESP, at the age of ten years when his parents were skeptical and worried about his psychic condition. This was the initial revelation about Swami Bhadraanand’s miraculous proficiency to his family. And for the second time, it was a close associate called Mr. Anysh Aloysius Rosario, a writer by profession who had ascertained the Extra Sensory Perception of Swami Bhadraanand.

There are several questions in this world that are quite intriguing to a human mind. With the blessings

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Swami Bhadraanand is also an enigmatic descendant of the modern era. His passion is to pursue the mysterious. Material benefits are not his priority and his acquaintance is a matter of pride for who knows his power.

of his eternal parents, Bhadrananji is able to unleash a tremendous amount of energy into his disciples, giving them answers to everything that they have been searching for.

The physical body is nothing but a shell that holds the eternal soul. The aura that surrounds one is a representation of his Karma. The karmic bondages surround a man throughout his life and the negative impacts it can cause, due to one’s karma can be averted by a true teacher only.

The disciples of this great human have many such instances to narrate. The sufferings that come out of one’s karma in the past birth can be nullified through the effective interference of someone who possesses immense spiritual power.

As evidenced by Swami Bhadraanand, the human mind is controlled by the veiled factors that control the transcendent self, in the form of electromagnetic waves, and the constant flow of energy towards and from the Self.

The Universe and its elements are created on the basis of scientific and mathematical propositions.

They seemingly look quite complex but are the basic structure/formulae that embody every single element here. Swami Bhadraanand uses the same formulae used by nature to generate and circulate peace and tranquility. Swami Bhadraanand has revealed in himself the ability to change the destiny of a personthrough the powerful process of AOA which has been researched

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intensely by him through all these years. Hosting a wide array of holistic services, Swami Bhadraanand offers his wisdom to invoke the blessings of God/Super Consciousness to heal the minds of his disciples.

Swami Bhadraanand offers a platform to those who seek revitalization in life, for those truth- seekers and peace lovers where the positive results are readily noticeable. A large number of disciples have been cured of their illnesses and offered mental peace through him. He has silenced his critics with his accurate predictions which also have won him many laurels including The Mother Theresa Award and the degree of the Doctor of Philosophy.

Many who were in need of wealth and materialistic gains approached him and got wealthy not only by money but also by heart and soul through his renowned method of Aura tuning.

A garland of flowers in one hand and rudraksha, on the other hand, the Godman image, is not his trademark. When a soul saturated with real belief finds sanctuary in him, the birth of his love and compassion in you starts pouring in. He treads fearlessly on the path of justice for the needy people and their rights.

His Karma instigates him to destroy the unjust, facing it with all might rather than raising his hands symbolizing “Om Shanti”.

You know his name, but not the story behind his name. You can interpret him and his teachings provided you know his real self. You’ve

heard what the media has to say, not his true endeavors. Do not underestimate his power unless and until you have challenged him. You may have understood his thoughts, in the form of his words but not his perceptions that are intense and sturdy.

Experience his indomitable courage and enlightened thoughts, his support to the marginalized and follow his brave endeavor to eradicate the antisocial elements creating havoc in this country.

Swami Bhadraanand is also an enigmatic descendant of the modern era. His passion is to pursue the mysterious. Material benefits are not his priority and his acquaintance is a matter of pride for who knows his power.

Intense sadhana, the realization of universal love; the satisfaction derived from seeing others’ ignorance being reduced; and the unbounded grace of the beloved guru; makes him what he is. He will hold a mirror towards yourself, reflecting the good and bad, clearing the bad of course to fill you with extreme positivity. Only a sincere and devoted soul can draw the essence of his blessings, for he values sincerity more than anything. A hypocrite might call him deceitful but an intellectual will identify him to be a genius. He wants his disciples to be responsible citizens and valiant fighters, who dares to question even the most powerful when they are exposed to injustice.

Now, it’s your turn to experience this Immortal Soul…

GADGETS

Motorola One Fusion Plus

` 16,999 (Approximately)

Android v10 (Q) OS

6.5 inches Display

64 MP + 8 MP + 5 MP + 2 MP

Quad Primary Cameras

16 MP Secondary Camera

6 GB RAM

128 GB Internal Memory

1 TB Expandable Memory

5000 mAh Battery Capacity

Infinix Note 7 Lite

` 7,499 (Approximately) Android v10 (Q) OS 6.6 inches Display 48 MP + 2 MP + 2 MP Triple

Primary Cameras 8 MP Secondary Camera 4 GB RAM 128 GB Internal Memory 2 TB Expandable Memory 5000 mAh Battery Capacity

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Samsung Galaxy M31s

` 14,999 (Approximately) Android v10 (Q) OS 6.4 inches Display 64 MP + 8 MP + 5 MP + 5 MP

Quad Primary Cameras 32 MP Secondary Camera 6 GB RAM 64 GB Internal Memory 512 GB Expandable Memory 6000 mAh Battery Capacity

Vivo Z6 5G

` 22,590 (Approximately) Android v10 (Q) OS 6.57 inches Display 48 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP + 2 MP

Quad Primary Cameras 16 MP Secondary Camera 6 GB RAM 128 GB Internal Memory 5000 mAh Battery Capacity

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BEAUTY

Natural ways to cure skin rashes

S

ometimes, skin rashes can be highly irritating – especially because of their itching sensation. Most people prefer chemical methods to fight this skin condition. Needless to say, this condition too can be solved with the help of non-chemical methods.

A person with this condition, even though desperate to find a solution at the earlier, should not jump into any method. He should first consult a doctor, who has expertise in this area.

As you all know, there are several natural methods available to fight this disturbing skin condition. In this edition, some of these methods are explored.

Cold Compress

It is the most effective method available to fight this skin condition. Skin rashes are highly disturbing due to the itching sensation associated with this condition. This method works effectively to

minimise that sensation.

Actually, the method acts almost instantly.

Take an ice bag. Fill the bag with ice cubes. Place the bag on the affect area. Leave it there for few minutes. Repeat the procedure whenever you feel itching sensation.

Oatmeal

For centuries, this substance has been used to treat several disturbing skin conditions including skin rashes.

It is an anti-inflammatory, as well as anti-oxidant.

Fill a bathtub with warm water. Drop a glass of oats into the tub. Mix them well.

Immerse your body – except your head – into the tub, and stay there for at least thirty minutes. Repeat the procedure at least twice or thrice a week for better result.

Aloe Vera

As we all know, aloe vera is the rich source of several vitamins and minerals. As per a latest report, this substance can be used to treat

skin rashes. It is an anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, antioxidant and an anti-microbial.

Take a leaf of aloe veral plant. Cut open the leaf.

Scrap out the gel from the leaf. Apply the gel on the affected area. Repeat the procedure at least twice or thrice a day for better result.

Coconut Oil

This oil is easily available in this part of the world.

Coconut oil is considered as one of the most effective natural moisturisers. It has anti-septic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also a rich source of several rare vitamins and minerals. It is the base of several successful natural beauty products available in the market.

Few spoons of coconut oil. You can either apply this oil on the affected area or all over your body.

It can even be applied on your hair. Repeat the procedure at least

Dr. Elizabath Chacko, MD-Kalpana International

Mob: 9388618112

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twice or thrice a day for better result.

Apple cider vinegar

This substance is popular for its antimicrobial properties. It is a centuries-old method used to treat several skin ailments including skin rashes. In a recent report, it is said that this is very effective to fight skin rashes.

Take few spoons of diluted apple cider vinegar. Apply the substance on the affected area. Repeat the procedure at least once a day for good result. Please note that this vinegar should not be used on the affected area if the area is bleeding.

These natural remedies are very effective. But it does not mean that these are the only methods available to treat this condition. There are certain conditions which can only be treated with advanced medication under the supervisor of doctorsď Ź Stay Healthy...

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TRAVELOGUE

Equatorial Guinea, popularly known as the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, was a colony of Spain. It is a small country with an area of 28,000 square kilometres. The country speaks Spanish - the only African state where this language is an official language.

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Equatorial Guinea: The Dream Land in Africa What is the first thing that comes to our mind when we think about travelogue. This kind of writing is different from the rest for its ability to appeal our heart. Sometime, a travelogue is more powerful than a piece of poem. It is not the words that make the said piece of art exceptional. What makes the piece special is its content. Most of us loves to read travelogues. No two person have a same reason to love this art. Each of us has a different reason to love this art. This reality explains the strength of this art form.

At the time of the origin of this art, it was not complicated as what it is now. It was as simple as diary writing. The moment it has identified the need to get merged with emotions, this refined art, in its present form, has rightly originated.

When a travelogue is written, the writer not only explains simply what he has seen but also explains what all emotions he has experienced.

Travelogue is a perfect blend of data and emotion. To create a perfect travelogue, one needs to get both the said elements right. It is not less a challenge. Sometimes, it

is herculean too.

In this edition, an attempt is made to explore one of the dream lands in Africa. That land is none other than Equatorial Guinea, a rich country located in the western coast of the central region of the continent of Africa.

Equatorial Guinea, popularly known as the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, was a colony of Spain.

It is a small country with an area of 28,000 square kilometres. The country speaks Spanish – the only African state where this language is an official language.

Unlike other African countries, this country is extremely wealthy – one of the richest countries in the continent of Africa. Though its Gross Domestic Product rate and its Purchasing Power Parity rate are very high compared to the rest of Africa – 43rd in the world, its Human Development Index is not impressive at all – 144th in the world.

The discovery of oil reserves was what that overturned the destiny of this country. The colonial Guinea was an exporter of cocoa, timber and coffee. It had good relation with the west – especially Spain, Germany

and France. Since the discovery of oil reserves, the country is one of the biggest exporters of oil in the region.

It is a member of several national and International organisations, such as the African Union, Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries.

Unfortunately, the country is notorious for its criminal rate. Human trafficking is a big problem. The country is struggling to fight forced labour and forced sex trafficking.

What make things worse is its less impressive press freedom index. An International Organisation rates this country as one of the worst countries in terms of its press freedom index.

Nonetheless, the tourism sector of this country is growing. The infrastructural development the country has achieved is what that has helped this country to achieve this momentum in the sector of tourism.

The country is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in this part of Africa.

The country understands the potential of this sector and has launched several policies to promote this sector. Undoubtedly, in the near

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TRAVELOGUE

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future itself, the country will emerge as the most attractive tourist destination in the continent of Africa.

The country offers each and every thing one expects from an ideal tourist destination – from exceptional historic ruins to unmatchable beaches.

This country consists of two parts: the insular region and the mainland region. The islands of Bioko, Sao Tome and Principe, and Annobon make the insular region, while the main land consists of Bata, Ciudad de la Paz and several offshore islands.

Malabo, Bioko, Bata and San Antonio de Ureca are the prime tourist destinations in this part of the world.

Malabo, which is a port city, is the capital of the country. The region is known for its colonial architecture. Santa Isabel Cathedral and Casa Verde are some of them. Equatoguinean Cultural Centre is also a prime attraction. The region is dif-

ferent from the rest for its vibe. Definitely, it is at a time a perfect port city, as well as a vibrant capital city.

Bioko is a Volcano Island situated in this part of the world. It is a mountainous region. Its scenic beauty is indescribable. The land surely has the blessing of the goddess of nature. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers. Luba Crater Scientific Reserve is the main attraction in this region.

Bata is the most popular port city in this city. What is that which brings travellers here is the ultimate coastal life experience the region offers. It is a fantastic chill-out destination.

Beaches in this region are where some of the most fabulous restaurants, clubs and bars are located. It is also an appropriate destination for shopping. The city is home to one of the busiest markets in the country. Like other cities in this part of the world, this city also owns some amazing colonial architecture. Bata

Cathedral is the most important one among them.

San Antonio de Ureca is a beautiful village in this country. It speaks volumes how much blessed this country is. The village is a gift of nature. It is important to explore this village to understand the real vibe of this country. The region represents the less explored wealth – that is its real culture, environment, tradition, lifestyle and cuisine – of this country. It is important to note here that the region has a different character compared to the rest of Africa; in contrary to the general opinion that Africa is a dry continent, this village is known for its abundant rainfall and water reserve. This village showcases another face of the continent – which has not yet been explored rightly.

This country definitely deserves a space in your bucket list, don’t you think so? Explore Nature! Stay Rejuvenated!

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AUTO REVIEW

Vivek Venugopal is one of India’s top automotive writers with over a decade’s experience in road-testing and reviewing cars.

He is currently the Editor of Quarter Mile magazine and a columnist in several leading magazines and newspapers. He is also a highly sought after consulting engineer and market analyst for many automobile manufacturers.

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Three years into this generation’s life, it is time for the midlife revamp and as with every Verna facelift before, Hyundai likes to do things properly. The new 2020 Verna gets refreshed styling, more features and more importantly, a new 1L turbo petrol engine in a segment where 1.5 or 1.6 litre engines used to be the norm. Before you dismiss it off for something unexciting, let me tell you that the new engine is more powerful, more fuel efficient and costs less to insure than the old 1.6.

T

he Hyundai Ver na has enjoyed its comfortable position in the upper midsize segment for quite some time amongst capable competition. Three years into this generation’s life, it is time for the midlife revamp and as with every Verna facelift before, Hyundai likes to do things properly. The new 2020 Verna gets refreshed styling, more features and more importantly, a new 1L turbo petrol engine in

a segment where 1.5 or 1.6 litre engines used to be the norm. Before you dismiss it off for something unexciting, let me tell you that the new engine is more powerful, more fuel efficient and costs less to insure than the old 1.6. But we will get to all that in a bit.

The Verna has one of the most balanced looking designs in its class and with the facelift, it looks even more aggressive especially in the sportier Turbo GDI variant we tested. The front-end

Hyundai

Verna styling is all new, along with new headlamps, new bumper and larger glossy black grille (black chrome for other variants), all intersecting into one another to create a striking face. The car looks like the current global designs from Hyundai. The glossy black mirrors and newer alloy wheels and a raised ride height are what you notice from the sides. When you get to the rear, the tail lamps are new and there is a new bumper design

with a new diffuser look and square exhaust tips finished in chrome. The bumper also has a halftone pattern emerging from the black trims on the sides a detail that may polarize opinion. Overall, the styling has got better and more modern and upmarket which is not bad for a facelift.

The interior is more or less similar to what it used to be.

The shape of the dashboard and its layout are unchanged but it

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AUTO REVIEW

feels improved with the addition of small elements.

The infotainment screen has grown in size and sticks out a little, since it can no longer sit flush between the vents. The fully digital instrument console with reverse tachometer isn’t the easiest to comprehend, and reminds you of the one on a modern day BMW. There are red highlights on the AC vents, red stitching on the seats etc to tell you this is the sportier variant. And the turbo petrol variant gets all black cabin which looks

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nice. The Verna’s ventilated front seats are super comfy to sit on, especially on a hot day. The car isn’t the most spacious in its class and that’s evident in the rear, where it falls short on legroom and headroom.

It offers good support and a perfect back rest angle though, and short people won’t complain at all. The Verna comes loaded with features like LED headlamps, sunroof, wireless charging, BlueLink connected car features, cruise control, ESP, six airbags,

front rear parking sensors, a hands-free boot release etc.

The new 1.0litre, direct injection, 3 cylinder turbo petrol with 120bhp and 172Nm is the same one we get in the Venue. In the Verna, this only be had with a seven speed dual clutch automatic, though the other 1.5 litre petrol and diesel engine options come in both manual and auto. The engine is refined for a three cylinder at idle and also on the move, but you can sometimes feel the lack of a fourth cylinder. It

has a bit of turbo lag, but is linear for most part and you get strong midrange performance than the naturally aspirated petrol version. It feels quite smooth-revving and can be quite energetic near the top end.

The dual clutch automatic makes it easy to drive and coupled with the small engine, returns very good fuel efficiency if you drive with a light foot. You might be starting off in second gear every time and the additional punch a torque convertor automatic would have provided is missing here, but the gearbox is smooth in the way it upshifts. There is a manual mode and even paddle shifters on the steering, if you want

to change gears yourself but the auto mode is good enough for most occasions. It is not as enthusiastic as the ones in Volkswagens during downshifts, but that could also be in the interests of longevity. Also the clutch engagement is very progressive and jerk free.

The Verna has a suspension setup that is tuned towards ride quality.

It feels good on bad roads, gives a comfy ride over long distances and normal people would be happy with it. Hyundai says they have worked on the suspension setup for the facelift. The steering feels a bit better than it used to and there are now rear disc brakes for better stopping

power. We would prefer a bit more front-end grip and a more engaging drive to suit the sporty engine and gearbox combo, though.

As far as facelifts go, the 2020 Verna is a thorough update.

Rs.13.99 lakh ex-showroom for this variant we tested seems like on the higher side, but there is a lot more on offer than before. It gets refreshed styling, new engines across the range and reworked suspension.

The new features are a welcome addition and makes the car feel much more in tune with the times. The competition in this segment is sure to get a lot hotter in the months to comeď Ź

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MOVIE REVIEW

Tenet

I

t is an action film directed by talented filmmaker Christopher Nolan, who is a popular British-American filmmaker.

The screenplay of the film is written by its director itself. Technically speaking, the film is a spy film. Robert Pattinson, John David Washington, Elizabeth Debicki, Dimple Kapadia, Himesh Patel, Clemence Poesy, Aaron Taylor Johnson, Michael Caine, Kenneth Branagh, Denzil Smith, Andrew Howard, Fiona Dourif and Martin Donovan appear in the lead roles. Hoyte van Hoytema is the cinematographer of the film. What makes the film special is its exceptional action sequences and its suspense filled storyline.

The film can appeal all kinds of film lovers.

Wonder Woman 1984

I

t is a fantasy movie directed

by American filmmaker Patty Jenkins, who is popular for her contributions to the film and television industries of the USA, and who is also a talented screenplay writer. The film portrays how wonder woman defeats Cheetah, an evil creature which possesses several supernatural powers. In the film, Gal Gadot plays the role of wonder woman. Apart from Ms. Gal, Chris Pine, Kristen Wiig, Pedro Pascal, Robin Wright, Connie Nielsen, Gabriella Wilde, Kristoffer Polaha, Oakley Bull, Sarah Barlondo and Lyon Beckwith appear in the lead roles. The film can appeal all kinds of film lovers.

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Shakuntala Devi

I

t is a biographical film directed

by Indian filmmaker Anu Menon, who has gifted several beautiful films to the Bollywood film industry such as Waiting. This film is based on the life and times of Guinness World Record holder Shakuntala Devi, who was a highly talented mental calculator and an acclaimed writer.

In the film, Vidya Balan plays the role of Shakuntala Devi. Apart from Ms. Vidya, Sanya Malhotra, Jisshu Sengupta, Amit Sadh, Ty Hurley, Stephen Samson, Jake Francis, Max Dowler, Adi Chugh and Colin Blyth appear in the lead roles. The film is suitable for all kinds of movie lovers.

Dil Bechara

I

t is a romantic film directed by young filmmaker Mukesh Chhabra, who is a popular casting director, acting workshop director and an actor. The film tells the amazing love story of two cancer patients. Sushant Singh Rajput – the actor who has left us recently creating a huge vaccine in the industry – and Sanjana Sanghi appear as the central characters. Apart from Mr. Rajput and Ms. Sanjana, Saif Ali Khan, Sahil Vaid, Javed Jaffrey, Saurav Khurana and Milind Gunaji act in the lead roles. The film is truly inspiring. The film can become one of the most popular romantic films of this year.

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BOOK REVIEW

Executive Presence: The POISE Formula for Leadership Author Price

: Shital Kakkar Mehra : Rs. 319 (Paperback)

L

eadership is an important quality. If a leader does not have this quality, he is of no use. Every leader must possess this quality. Though this quality can be transmitted from parents to children through genes, this is not the only way available to acquire this quality. This quality can be cultivated. This book explains how you can train yourself to become an exceptional leader. The book shares a secret formula, the POISE Formula for Leadership. The book is an asset to the business community. It can be used to train business aspirants. The book is suitable for all kinds of readers.

Good Economics for Hard Times: Better Answer to Our Biggest Problems

Author Price

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: Abhijit V Banerjee, Esther Duflo : Rs. 395 (Paperback)

hat makes this book appealing primarily is the authors of this book, Abhijit V Banerjee and Esther Duflo, are the winners of the 2019 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences. Interestingly, the authors are the sixth married couple to jointly win a Nobel Prize. Secondly, the book argues that in economics there is a solution for every issue the world face at this juncture. The book explains how some sensitive issues like migrant crisis and poverty can be solved with the support of economics.

The book speaks strongly against the war of ideologies, which undermines the peaceful exitance of the world, and which forces nations to ignore economics.

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BOOK REVIEW

The Economics of Belonging: A Radical Plan to Win Back the Left Behind and Achieve Prosperity for All Author Price

: Martin Sandbu : Rs. 2,282 (Hardcover)

T

he western economic order, developed in the aftermath of the World War Two, is struggling to hang on. The repeated attacks from protectionism have made the order extremely weak. If things progress in this direction, the order may collapse any moment. This book actually is an eyeopener. It explains why globalisation should not be blamed for the present state of the world. It describes how issues like inequality can be addressed with the help of the present structure. The book shares several insightful ideas to transform the present global order, based on globalisation, to make the order more inclusive in nature.

Once Upon A Prime Time Author Price

T

: Ananth Mahadevan : Rs. 421 (Paperback)

he author of the book, Anant Narayan Mahadevan, is a writer, screenwriter, filmmaker and an actor. He is a well-known figure in the Bollywood film industry. He is popular in the Marathi film industry also. What makes him special is his connection with the television industry. In this book, he shares his journey with the television industry. Though the book is a bit autobiographical in nature, it covers the industry, rather than the actor. This is the first this kind of book that has been released in this part of the world. It may excite all kinds of readers – especially those who are interested to read about the Indian television industry.

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Printed On 09/ 07/ 2020

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