"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

#Taj

Star Citizens

From Terracotta Artisan to Young Entrepreneur at 15: Discover Smriti's Inspirational Journey!

In a world captivated by highbrow concepts and fine craftsmanship, Smrithi S, a final year B Tech (Fashion Technology) student, not only embraced her passion for jewellery design but also took India's terracotta jewellery industry to international heights. Smrithi, hailing from Coimbatore, began her entrepreneurial journey at the tender age of 15 when she established Shika Creations—a venture specializing in terracotta jewellery and home décor. What started as a hobby of creating handcrafted gifts for family celebrations soon blossomed into a thriving business that now earns an impressive Rs 25 lakh annually and exports to multiple countries. "I was always immersed in arts and crafts since childhood. Every summer break, I eagerly enrolled in art camps or painting classes to explore different forms of creativity. Little did I know that my passion would evolve into something so significant," shares Smrithi in an interview with The Better India. Shika Creations, named after her beloved niece, has become synonymous with finely handcrafted terracotta jewellery, fridge magnets, and home décor items. Despite juggling her studies in B Tech (Fashion Technology), Smrithi. Her vision is to expand the platform into a large terracotta hub, empowering fellow artisans to showcase and sell their products. Notably, Smrithi's entrepreneurial prowess was recognized on an international stage when she participated in the Global Student Entrepreneur Award (GSEA), where she emerged as the second runner up—a remarkable achievement for the only female representative from India. Embracing her role as a young entrepreneur, Smrithi encourages aspiring individuals to hone their skills and pursue their passions regardless of age. She has imparted terracotta jewelry making skills to more than 350 women and students. Her success hasn't come without challenges. Managing international orders, especially delicate clay products, requires meticulous attention to packaging and customer education on product maintenance. However, Smrithi's commitment to quality and sustainability has earned her a loyal customer base worldwide. Shika Creations isn't just a business; it's a platform dedicated to preserving traditional Indian crafts and promoting eco-friendly practices. Smrithi and her team are on a mission to bring these unique handmade creations to life, promoting entrepreneurship and self-sustainability. Through online marketing strategies, Shika Creations has made a global impact, showcasing the beauty and versatility of terracotta jewellery while empowering women through craft training initiatives. At Shika Creations, every piece tells a story—an amalgamation of passion, creativity, and dedication. From intricate terracotta Jumkhas and necklaces to floral Aaram and custom-designed jewellery, the craftsmanship reflects a deep-rooted love for handmade artistry and a desire to offer unique, fashionable alternatives to mass-produced accessories. Smrithi's journey epitomizes the spirit of innovation and resilience, inspiring young entrepreneurs to follow their dreams and make a positive impact in the world of craftsmanship and sustainability.

25 Apr 2024
Star Citizens

Meet the Woman who Ran a Marathon in a Saree to Champion Cultural Pride

In an impressive display of strength, determination, and cultural pride, Madhumita Jena Das, a British Odia woman, recently made history by completing a 42.5-kilometer marathon in Manchester while sporting a traditional, crimson Sambalpuri saree and vibrant orange sneakers. In just four hours and 50 minutes, she achieved a monumental feat that left people from around the world in awe of her remarkable accomplishment. The Friends of India Soc Intl UK’s official Twitter account shared a video and a photo of Das, 41 running energetically with a bright smile on her face, which went viral and gained over 47K views and 1,044K likes. Many Indians took to the comment section to express their admiration for Das's achievement. Das is a seasoned runner and was the only person running the marathon in a saree. She stated in an interview with the New Indian Express that she was inspired by her mother and grandmother, who wore sarees daily while performing strenuous labor. She disputed the idea that wearing a saree makes it impossible to run and claimed that she wears sarees during the summer in the UK regardless. Madhumita Jena Das's remarkable achievement in completing a marathon in a traditional saree has inspired many. Das's accomplishment has not only showcased her physical abilities but also highlighted the beauty and versatility of traditional Indian attire and culture. It is also an inspiration to many women who are reluctant to participate in physical activities due to societal pressure and cultural norms.

20 Apr 2023
Star Citizens

Good News

Say 'Wah Taj!' to Taj Mahal's Spectacular New Billboard

The Tabla has taken a backseat now as the Santoor strikes a chord with Taj Mahal Tea to enter the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest environmentally interactive billboard in the world! Taj Mahal Tea, India's renowned tea brand, has achieved this spectacular feat for its outdoor campaign, 'Megh Santoor'. Nestled in the heart of Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, opposite the bustling Vijayawada junction railway station, this extraordinary billboard has redefined the conventional advertising experience. The 'Megh Santoor' billboard, covering a vast surface area of 2250 square feet, ingeniously uses rain to play the melodious notes of Raag Megh Malhar on the Santoor, a classical Indian musical instrument. Passersby and locals are captivated by the soulful symphony, embodying the essence of the Raaga. This innovative creation seamlessly blends the soothing touch of rain with the magic of Hindustani classical music. The heart of this extraordinary creation lies in its 31 strings and handles, meticulously designed to bring alive the enchanting strains of the ancient rain Raaga, “Megh Malhar.” The renowned Indian classical musician, Mr. Taufiq Qureshi, has rendered his expertise to this amazing creation. Shiva Krishnamurthy, Head of Beverages and Foods at Hindustan Unilever, expressed elation at this milestone. He emphasized the brand's commitment to offering a unique tea experience amid the rains. This awe-inspiring, one-of-a-kind musical billboard is the result of six months of meticulous conceptualization and the collaborative effort of over 50 skilled professionals.  Taj Mahal Tea's "Megh Santoor" is not just a billboard; it's a symphony that celebrates the beauty of rain and the timeless magic of music. Can’t help but say “ Wah Taj”!

6 Oct 2023
Good News

A Fitting Tribute to Warriors: Anadaman Islands Named After Paramvir Chakra Awardees

In a fitting tribute to the warriors of our nation who put their life at stake while guarding the frontiers of the country,  Prime Minister Narendra Modi named 21 unnamed Andaman and Nicobar islands after 21 recipients of the Param Vir Chakra today through video conference.  The islands were named on the occasion of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's 126th birthday. Speaking on the occasion, The Prime Minister said that future generations would draw inspiration from the islands. He added that although efforts had been made to undermine Netaji's contribution to the freedom struggle, the entire nation—from Delhi and Bengal to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands—is today honoring the great hero by conserving the history and culture that are connected to him. The largest unnamed island bears the name of Major Somnath Sharma, the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, who died in combat on November 3, 1947, spurning off Pakistani infiltrators close to Srinagar Airport. During the virtual ceremony's opening, Prime Minister Modi remarked that it is in the region of Andaman where the tricolor was hoisted for the first time and where India's first independent government was established. As It is also the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Bose, this day is recognized nationwide as Parakram Diwas. Ajay Devgan, who played the role of Manoj Pandey, and Sidharth Malhotra, who played Vikram Batra expressed their gratitude to PM Modi for honoring the "real heroes of our nation."

24 Jan 2023
Good News

Taj Mahotsav To Celebrate Lord Rama

This year's theme for Taj Mahotsav will be Lord Rama. Taj Mahotsav will showcase a dance-based drama on Lord Rama at the opening ceremony on February 18.  The organising committee has taken the decision to have an opening act based on Lord Rama. This act will be performed by Shriram Bharati Kala Kendra.  The event will start on February 18 and conclude on February 24 with a Kavi Sammelan. Other acts will include a folk performance by singer Malini Awasthi, A Bollywood Night with a black and white performance from a Pune group who will be seen performing old songs.

6 Feb 2018
Good News

Positive Reads

Know More About Six Architectural Marvels of India That Adorn the Indian Currency Notes!

We all know that the Taj Mahal is considered one of the seven wonders of the modern world. But, did you know that there exist many more such marvelous monuments which are a reflection of genius engineering, grandeur, and majesty that leaves us in absolute awe? Find out more about each architectural gem that is printed on the nonvalue face of Indian Currency. Rs 500 - Red Fort The Red Fort Complex was constructed to serve as the palace fort of Shahjahanabad,  the new capital of the fifth Mughal Emperor of India, Shah Jahan. It is called the Red Fort Complex because of the large red sandstone walls that surround it. It houses the Nahr-i-Behisht, a continuous water channel that connects the row of pavilions that make up the private apartments (Stream of Paradise). The Red Fort is regarded as the pinnacle of Mughal ingenuity, which was elevated to a new degree of sophistication under Shah Jahan. Rs 200 - Sanchi Stupa A collection of Buddhist monuments can be seen at the site of Sanchi, which is around 40 kilometers from Bhopal. The remains of Sariputta and Maha Moggallana, the two most senior disciples of the Buddha, were found here in 1851 by Alexander Cunningham, the founder of ASI. Later, they were removed and transported to London. The last nawab of Bhopal, Jawaharlal Nehru, and the Maha Bodhi Society worked together to ensure that these artifacts returned to India and were housed in the newly constructed Chetiyagiri Vihara. Rs 100 - Rani Ki Vav The bright blue-green 100 rupee note carries the picture of Rani Ki Vav -  the famous step well at Patan in Gujarat. Interestingly, we thought we had lost this architectural marvel, but it was just recently unearthed. The step well from the 11th century remained hidden for more than 700 years before ASI (The Archaeological Survey of India) uncovered it in the 1980s. More than 1000 primary and minor sculptures were discovered in perfect condition after restoration. Rs 50 - Hampi The Vijaynagara Empire, one of the greatest Indian empires ever, can be understood in part because of the heritage city. That Hampi is Karnataka's most valuable asset and a UNESCO World Heritage Site is not surprising. Hampi, which is rocky but rich with trees carries Tungabhadra in its heart and bears the pride of the last Indian empire in its memories. A unique feature of the Vitthala temple is its 56 music pillars, each of which emits a distinctive sound. Your architectural curiosity will be piqued by this and much more in Hampi. In Hampi, there are twice as many surprises as there are temples. Rs 20 - Ajanta and Ellora Caves Two enormous rock-cut caves, Ajanta and Ellora, are the epitome of Indian art and achievement in architecture. Although these two monuments are almost 100 km apart, they are frequently cited together because of their similar aesthetic value. While  Ajanta is known for its stunning Buddhist-themed murals on cave walls, Ellora is known for its sculpture and architecture that represent the three major religions that were practiced in that region at the time: Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. Rs 10 - The Sun Temple,Konark The Sun Temple at Konark is devoted to the Hindu Sun God, Surya, and is credited to King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. The temple complex's ruins are about 100 feet (30 meters) high and resemble a chariot with wonderfully carved wheels and horses that are also made of stone. The plinth of the temple is ornamented with reliefs of lions, musicians, dancers, and erotic groups in between the wheels. To further emphasize the temple's significance and relevance in Indian culture and tradition, it is shown on the INR 10 note of Indian currency.  

11 Nov 2022
Positive Reads

Saraswathi Rajamani- India's youngest spy

Its been more than half a century since India won its independence from Britishers and the heroic deeds of our brave freedom fighters are gradually fading away from public memory. Their stories take us back to an era filled with patriotism and the dedication to one's duty and nation. One such inspiring story is that of Saraswathi Rajamani, who at a very young age carried in her the fire to fight the Britishers which helped her get inducted into the Indian National Army's Intelligence Wing at a very young age of sixteen. Saraswathi Rajamani was born in Burma in a family of freedom fighters. Her father, who was an affluent miner from Trichy was a staunch supporter of the freedom struggle. In order to escape arrest by the British authorities, he had fled to Burma and settled there. Rajamani grew in a household where thoughts were very liberal. She carried the flame of India's freedom in her heart right from her childhood. Once when Mahatma Gandhi visited their house in Rangoon, he saw Rajamani alone in the garden honing her shooting skills. She told him that she wanted to gun down the Bririshers who were looting India. Gandhiji was shocked and explained how things could be tackled better in non violent ways, but Rajamani remained determined.  As she grew up, she was drawn to Subash Chandra Bose's Indian National Army. Netaji's powerful words kindled in her a fervour to fight for her country. Once, when Bose visited Rangoon to collect funds and recruit members for the INA, Rajamani donated all her jewellery. This came to the notice of Bose who arrived at her residence to return the jewellery. Rajamani was firm in her decision and refused to take back the ornaments. Bose was impressed and stated that Laksmi ( Goddess of Wealth) comes and goes, but not Sarawathi(Goddess of Knowledge). That day Bose named her Saraswathi and she came to be known as Sarawathi Rajamani. He recruited Rajamani and four of her friends as spies in the Intelligence Wing of the Indian National Army (INA). Disguised as young boys, the girls started working as errand boys at British military camps and officers’ houses. As covert agents behind enemy lines, they were responsible for intercepting government orders and military intelligence from the British officers and handing these over to INA. They masqueraded as boys for two years to gather information of the British movements. When one of the girls got caught, Rajamani was determined to rescue her. She dressed up as a dancing girl, drugged the officers in the prison and escaped with her colleague. She was hit on her leg with a bullet while fleeing which made her permanently limp. Rajamani was proud of her limp as it reminded her of the exciting days in the INA. Netaji was delighted about Rajamani's brave escape. Her proud moment came when she was given a medal by the Japanese Emperor himself. She was also given the rank of Lieutenant in INA’s Rani of Jhansi Brigade. Her work in the army ended when Netaji disbanded the INA after Britishers won the World War II. The family unfortunately had to lead a life of penury on returning to India.  Rajamani lives a lonely life in Chennai, yet her spirit to help her countrymen is still very strong. When Chennai was struck by a tsunami, she donated her meagre  monthly pension that she receives as a freedom fighter to the relief fund. She visits tailor shops to collect scraps and pieces of cloth which she uses to stitch clothes that she then donates to orphanages and old age homes. A big salute to this brave and fearless woman who is an inspiration to many.  

25 Apr 2017
Positive Reads

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