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

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

#WestBengal

Star Citizens

Mini Maestro: Babar Ali, The World's Youngest Headmaster, Paves the Path to Universal Education

In a remarkable tale of determination and passion, Babar Ali, a teacher from the Murshidabad district in West Bengal, has become the youngest headmaster in the world. At the tender age of nine, driven by his love for teaching, Babar embarked on a journey to provide education to underprivileged children in his community. Today, his incredible work has not only transformed the lives of countless students but has also contributed to increasing the literacy rate in the region. Babar Ali's school, named Anand Shiksha Niketan, started humbly in the courtyard of his home, operating from a simple hut. Motivated by the sight of children his age unable to attend school, he took it upon himself to provide them with an education. His dedication and perseverance have resulted in the establishment of a school that now educates hundreds of poverty-stricken children. Recognized by various national and international agencies, Babar Ali has received numerous awards for his selfless work. He was honored with the Real Heroes award by CNN IBN, the Indian of the Year award by NDTV, and the Literacy Hero Award by Rotary India Literacy Mission, among others. His inspiring story has even been included in the coursebooks of different state and central education boards. Anand Shiksha Niketan, a school for joyful learning, not only provides tuition-free education but also offers free learning kits, uniforms, and basic amenities to its students. Babar Ali's vision and relentless efforts have inspired others to join the cause of making education accessible to all. Babar Ali's unwavering commitment to education serves as an inspiration for everyone, proving that with dedication and a specific goal, great outcomes can be achieved.

5 Sep 2023
Star Citizens

The Power of Silk: Propelling People Towards Success

Kabita Singh's story is a remarkable one of determination and resilience. In 2014, she decided to take up tasar sericulture (silk farming) in the face of opposition from her husband, her village, and the panchayat. Despite the ostracism, Kabita persevered and today, her village of Shyamnagar has 44 families engaged in silk farming, thanks to her efforts.  Kabita's work involves training women in tasar sericulture, rearing tasar larvae, and managing a Basic Seed Production Unit, where parental seed cocoons are reared. This work has enabled Kabita to become financially secure, as well as to gain independence and self-confidence. Last year, she earned Rs25,000 from the sale of cocoons, and she also earns Rs7,500 per month for her work in the seed unit and in training sessions. In addition, she earns Rs20,000 from paddy and watermelon cultivation on her land.  The success of Kabita's efforts is also evident in the work of Pradan, an NGO that has been linking women to sericulture since 1998. Pradan's efforts have brought economic prosperity to around 50,000 families in five states of West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Bihar. To ensure further success, Pradan has established the Tasar Development Foundation, which oversees the operations of the six producer organizations linked to it.  Kabita Singh's story is an inspiring one of grit and determination in the face of opposition. She has managed to break traditional stereotypes and carve out an independent life for herself, while being of great benefit to the community. Her story is a testament to the power of courage and hard work.

27 Jan 2023
Star Citizens

Wanderlust

Whispers of Wisdom: Unveiling the Enchanted Legacy of Santiniketan

Santiniketan, a small town nestled in the heart of West Bengal, India, is a place where vibrant culture and captivating history converge. It pulsates with the echoes of an extraordinary visionary who carved its destiny - Rabindranath Tagore, the legendary poet, Nobel laureate, and philosopher. In 1901, Tagore breathed life into Santiniketan, fashioning it into an experimental school that defied convention. Like a phoenix rising, this humble institution would later blossom into the illustrious Visva-Bharati University in 1921. Even today, its hallowed halls resound with intellectual curiosity and boundless creativity. Visva-Bharati University stands as a testament to Tagore's audacious spirit, embracing a pioneering approach to education. Here, disciplines intertwine, harmonizing the arts, humanities, and sciences. It is a crucible where traditional wisdom meets modern thought, where innovation blooms and boundaries dissolve. But the allure of Santiniketan extends far beyond academia. UNESCO, the global custodian of cultural heritage, has acknowledged the profound influence of the Tagore family and the town itself. They have honored Santiniketan by designating it as a Creative City of Literature, a distinction that illuminates the profound impact of Tagore's literary genius and his dedication to the arts and education. With this accolade, Santiniketan emerges as a magnetic force, drawing in artists, writers, and scholars from every corner of the globe Here, the spirit of Tagore dances in the breeze, resonates in the rustling leaves, and imbues the very essence of this enchanting town. Santiniketan remains an eternal muse, igniting the flames of imagination in each new generation of thinkers and artists. Shantiniketan remains a vibrant cultural hub, attracting artists, writers, and scholars from around the world. The town's rich history and cultural heritage continue to inspire new generations of thinkers and artists, who strive to carry forward Tagore's legacy of creativity, social justice, and education for all.

7 Jul 2023
Wanderlust

Unveiling the Cover of a Scenic District: A Journey to the Heart of Tea Country

Lepchajagat, a small hamlet located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, has emerged as a popular tourist destination in recent years. Nestled amidst the lush green forests of the Himalayas, the village offers a serene and peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The main attraction of Lepchajagat is its breathtaking natural beauty. The village is situated at an altitude of 6,956 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The forested areas around the village are home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Apart from its natural beauty, Lepchajagat is also famous for its tea gardens. The village is located close to the famous Darjeeling tea gardens, and visitors can take a stroll through these tea estates, learn about the tea-making process, and sample some of the finest tea in the world. Tourists can also explore the nearby forests on foot or horseback, and take in the sights and sounds of the Himalayan wildlife, including leopards, bears, and various species of birds. With its natural beauty, rich culture, and peaceful atmosphere, Lepchajagat is fast becoming a must-visit destination for tourists looking for a unique and offbeat travel experience in West Bengal.

9 Mar 2023
Wanderlust

This Sacred Pilgrimage Has Emerged as a Beacon of Spiritual Renewal

Hangseshwari Temple is located in Hooghly district of West Bengal, India. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali, who is also known as Hangseshwari. The temple is situated on the bank of the river Ganges and is considered as one of the most significant pilgrimage centers in West Bengal.   In December 1799, Raja Nrisinhadeb Roy Mahasay laid the foundation stone of this temple. The temple has a beautiful garden with a wide variety of flowers and plants, which adds to the beauty of the temple. The temple is known for its unique ratna architecture. The inner structure of the building resembles human anatomy.    The Hangseshwari Temple is one of the most important tourist destinations in West Bengal. People from all over the world come to this place to seek the blessings of the goddess Kali. The temple's beauty is enhanced by the magnificent view of the river Ganges, which flows beside it. Many tourists come to the temple to take a dip in the river, which is considered holy.   The temple hosts a grand festival during Navratri, which is a nine-day festival dedicated to the goddess Kali. During the festival, the temple is decorated with lights and flowers, and people come from far and wide to witness the celebrations.

17 Feb 2023
Wanderlust

Good News

Sweet Victory For West Bengal

West Bengal and Odisha were at odds about the origin of the delicious sweet rosogulla (also called rasgulla). While West Bengal claimed that it was created by the 19th century sweet maker Nabin Chandra Das, Odisha debated that it existed in the state for 600 years and was an offering for Lord Jagannath. On Tuesday, the Geographical Indications (GI) registry announced that the rosogolla originated in West Bengal and gave it the GI tag. As defined by the World Intellectual Property Organization, "A geographical indication is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin." West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said she was happy and proud that the state was granted GI status for rosogulla and that it was sweet news for them all. In 2015, Odisha’s science and technology minister Pradip Kumar Panigrahi contended that historical research proved that the ‘rasagolla’ originated in Puri. Its first avatar was ‘kheer mohana’, which later evolved into ‘pahala rasagolla’. In response, the West Bengal government quoted 19-century history to claim the rosogolla was invented by Nabin Chandra Das, a famous sweetmeat maker, in 1868. Then followed a bitter feud between the two states with West Bengal tasting success. Earlier they successfully fought for GI tag for the snack Joynagar Moa which is prepared with puffed rice and palm jaggery.

14 Nov 2017
Good News

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