My City Links: February 2024 Issue


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The incidence of cancer has seen a surge in recent years as more and more people come under its vice-like grip, particularly in the urban areas. Never has there been a greater need for concerted action to combat this deadly disease than now. With February 4 being observed as World Cancer Day, our Cover Story for this edition highlights some critical facets of the fight against the disease that is one of the leading causes of deaths globally. We speak with senior medical professionals with domain knowledge and expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer as well as the care of patients to bring you the big picture. The current month will also see the celebration of a technology and a medium that was identified as an important means of information and entertainment much before television and the internet changed the landscape completely. Yes, we are talking about the humble yet ubiquitous radio. On World Radio Day (February 13), we explore the relevance as well as the utility of radio in today’s digital era. He has seen action from close quarters in his days as a doctor with the Indian Army and would have doubtless saved many lives during his career. Recently, however, it was the turn of a Good Samaritan to come to the rescue of this Army veteran when he met with an accident while returning from Puri to Bhubaneswar during a cycling expedition. Read all about it in City Tales. This edition also brings to you the moving story of a dancer who is keeping the memory of her late husband alive. Maya Das, wife of renowned actor Ajit Das, who has continued the theatre festival started by her husband, talks to us about how she is taking a rich legacy forward. In Screen Shots, we feature an Odia film that has tried to look at the issue of gender equality through a different lens in order to provoke a discussion on what men go through. In a free-wheeling chat, director Jiit Chakraborty talks to us about what inspired him to make ‘Dear Purusha’. We also speak to some other experts and activists for their take on the subject. In CityFlix, a new section dedicated to reviewing global cinema, brings you a preview of an interesting Tamil film that deals with a problem that has become part and parcel of urban living – parking.




My City Links: March 2024 Issue


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As the world observes International Women’s Day on March 8, we zero in on a motley group of women who have emerged as beacons of hope for thousands of others, acting as a formidable force to catalyse some much-needed change. Through their efforts, they have inspired thousands of women around them. Our Cover Story for this edition looks at the work being done by these four women to further female empowerment at the grass-roots community level. India heads to the next general elections for the Lok Sabha soon and there is an unmissable air of anticipation about what has often been described as the biggest festival of democracy in the world. A recent Supreme Court judgement striking down the electoral bonds scheme has, however, turned the spotlight firmly on the issue of funding for political parties. In City Affairs, we take a close look at the scheme and what the Supreme Court verdict means. Amidst all the talk of what it takes to be fit and healthy, we often ignore the importance of getting a good night’s sleep. One only has to look at science to understand the benefits that this brings to a person. Our City Health section brings you a sharp insight into the role sleep plays in our mental as well as physical well- being. As the state tableau rolled down the Kartavya Path during this year’s Republic Day parade in New Delhi, the hearts of Odias across the world swelled with pride as it depicted Odisha’s rich heritage. It went on to win the first prize among tableaus from states and union territories. In CityZen, we feature Kirti Kumar Moharana, the man whose vision shaped this year’s tableau; he talks about what went on behind the scenes and the high points of this endeavour. This Women’s Day, get ready for a film that seeks to decipher the complex expectations from life through the experiences of three individuals navigating difficult, and different, circumstances. ‘Trikanya’ seeks to delve deep into the psyche of these three as they go about realising their unfulfilled dreams and aspirations. Read all about the film in Screen Shots. We also review ‘Mast Mein Rehne Ka’, a film that is as light-hearted as it is meaningful. City Flix brings you all the high points from this offbeat take on life that encapsulates a roller coaster of emotions.




My City Links: May 2024 Issue


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The past few weeks have seen the political temperatures shoot up as parties launch a no-holds-barred campaign for the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are campaigning vigorously; the Congress hopes it will improve on its 2019 performance. The entry of several political heavyweights into the electoral fray has only added to the sense of anticipation and excitement. In our Cover Story, we provide you a bird’s eye view of all that is happening on the political front. From high-profile battles to contrasting political ideologies and diverse electoral planks, these elections promise variety and excitement all the way. When she started off as an architect in a profession traditionally dominated by men, few around her would have thought that Neha Jain would one day bring laurels to Odisha. Selected for the prestigious ‘Golden Door Award’, Neha joins us for a Q&A session that provides an insight into her initial years and her expectations for the future now that she has made a mark for herself. As the mercury soars, there’s nothing like a tall glass of something cool to help you pull through a gruelling day! And if that something is natural, it will likely cool you down more efficiently than the soft drinks available in your neighbourhood market. So, head to our Food & Wines section for recipes of some traditional, natural coolants to beat the heat. Should you choose to explore the city properly, Cuttack has this innate ability to surprise; the city and its people can hold you in a spell through the sheer range of experiences and emotions that they embody. In City Culture, we go on a quaint journey of the senses as we get talking to Ayejaz Patel, a perfume maker whose life sounds as mystical as the fragrances he helps bring to life. Technological evolution is a continuous process, as is the pursuit of perfection in a specific field. Decades after we read about them in books and saw them in movies, the creation of the perfect personal robot is something that can best be described as ‘work in progress’. In this edition, we take a deep dive into the world of robotic technology, speaking to experts and tech enthusiasts about where the world stands when it comes to personal robots who can assist and enable human beings across a variety of functions.




My City Links: April 2024 Issue


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When was the last time you walked down a beach, or a street, or even your neighborhood park without coming across plastic wrappers and bags strewn around carelessly? And, what are the chances that you don’t remember? As we observe Earth Day on April 22, our Cover Story takes a deep dive into the seemingly disparate but inexorably intertwined aspects around the theme for this year, ‘Plastic vs Planet’. We also bring you the silver lining - while the alarm bells are ringing louder than ever, there are many whose passion is driving them to make a difference. As electioneering picks up for the Lok Sabha and Odisha Vidhan Sabha elections, there is one person whose presence will be deeply missed. 2024 will be the first time in many decades that veteran politician Dr Damodar Rout’s personality will not loom large on the state’s political scene. In CityZen, we explore the life and times of the veteran Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader who passed away recently. We also bring you the inspirational journey of Amiyabala Parida and her transformation from a professor to a social activist. In a candid conversation, she opens up about how losing two of the closest members of her family to road accidents changed her outlook towards life in general and society in particular. Mention Teletubbies to anyone who grew up in the 90s and, more often than not, it will bring a smile to their face as fond memories come alive. No reference to the iconic British TV show can be complete without a mention of the Sun Baby whose character looms large over the Teletubbies universe. In a Q&A session, we catch up with Jessica Smith, who played the baby-faced sun, as she talks about how the show happened, her own baby, and the legacy of Teletubbies. In Screen Shots, we zoom in on two Odias who are aspiring to make a mark in Tollywood. Having been cast in a Telugu film boasting of some big names from the industry, Dr Devika Priyadarshini and Abhi Nag talk about how it feels to land a film starring superstar Anushka Shetty. The section also features emerging Odia actor Prasanjeet Mahapatra who has left a mark in the handful of films he has been a part of so far. The 30-year-old talks to us about the success of his latest film and the projects lined up in future.




My City Links: August 2024 Issue


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The Union Budget 2024-25 presented in Parliament on July 24, 2024 has a sharp focus on employment, skilling, and manufacturing. The comprehensive strategy outlined in the Union Budget by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman lays a clear emphasis on driving economic growth while ensuring social welfare and bringing about inclusive development at the same time. Our Cover Story for this edition breaks down the budget document to explain what it holds for the future of the country. When it comes to safeguarding the rich cultural heritage and legacy of western Odisha, there is one person whose efforts over the years have the potential to inspire many others. In City Lights, we turn the spotlight on Rajat Kumar Panigrahi of Nuapada district and his stellar contribution towards preservation of the region's indigenous art forms. July 14, 2024 will go down as a day of considerable significance in the contemporary history of Lord Jagannath's Sri Mandir in Puri. The temple's sacred treasury, the Ratna Bhandar, was opened after 46 years. City Lights brings you all the information about the entire process as well as the history of the Ratna Bhandar. Eco-friendly substitutes to plastic are all the buzz in an era where sustainability is becoming a dire necessity. Not surprisingly, there are several examples of individuals as well as organisations coming forward with their own contribution to a circular economy. City Biz catches up with an entrepreneur whose start-up produces a wide range of sustainable items. Attending the 26th session of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 26) in November, 2021, India announced its target to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2070. In line with this commitment, India set up the National Green Hydrogen Mission in January 2023. A special feature sheds more light on this initiative and its critical role. The rainy season is a challenging phase when it comes to skincare, with humidity, wet spells, and fluctuating temperatures all acting as negative contributing factors. In Fashion & Beauty, we bring you some useful tips to keep the monsoon blues at bay. Odisha is renowned for its heritage and culture as well as its natural beauty. There is, however, another aspect about the state that is not talked about as often as it deserves to be - its cuisine. We bring you some not -to-be-missed monsoon recipes so that you can sit back and enjoy the rains with your favourite dish!




My City Links: January 2024 Issue


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Another year has come to an end, leaving behind a kaleidoscope of memories. For Odisha, 2023 was an eventful year when it came to governance, development, sports, and business. Our Cover Story for this edition brings you snapshots of the year’s significant policy decisions, major achievements in sports, landmarks from the corporate & business world, and important happenings in the Odia entertainment industry. Located in close proximity to buildings that seat the ‘who’s-who’ of Odisha’s power establishment, the Bhubaneswar Club has over the years evolved as an enduring symbol of socializing and celebration. With a history of 74 years, the club not only boasts of a rich legacy but also stands tall as a symbol of contemporary urban life. In City Tales, we walk you through all that the club stands for. Bhubaneswar was recently witness to a memorable congregation of vintage motor vehicles that reflected the glory, beauty, and craftsmanship of an era gone by. The inaugural Odisha Concours D’Elegance saw the participation of 50 eye-catching vintage cars from all over the country. Read all about this one-of-a-kind event in City Lights. A New Year brings with it new beginnings as well as new resolutions that are meant to set the tone for the next 12 months. City Lights brings to you a special feature tracing the origins of New Year resolutions and speaking to people from different walks of life to figure out the practice means to them. December 1, 2023 will be remembered for a film that not only created a storm at the box office but also sparked off an intense debate that shows no signs of dying down soon. ‘Animal’, the multi-lingual blockbuster, has received flak for normalizing misogyny and its controversial portrayal of gender dynamics. In Screen Shots, we talk to some prominent names from the Odia entertainment industry on the ongoing debate that has brought with it its own share of polarization and toxicity. Another issue that has become a matter of debate in recent days is that of paid menstrual leave for women. The issue has taken centre stage once again after Union Minister for Women and Child Development Smriti Irani expressed her opposition to the concept on the grounds that it could lead to discrimination against women in the workforce. In City Beat, we reach out to people for their views on the subject




My City Links Magazine: March 2023


Book Description

Over the past century or so, theatre has undergone a sea change, both in terms of its presentation and the manner in which it is consumed by the audience. The art form itself has evolved and transformed to be in sync with contemporary expectations. With March 27 set to be observed as World Theatre Day, our Cover Story chronicles the history and evolution of theatre in Odisha and comes up with some fascinating insights. Eco-friendly has become quite the buzzword over the past decade or so. Odisha has been doing its bit through the Eco Retreat initiative to promote sustainable tourism while showcasing the state’s rich cultural heritage and impressive natural beauty. Read all about it in City Lights. We also feature One M Crew, an acrobatic dance group from the slums of Mancheswar in Bhubaneswar that recently won a national competition. Their rise and rise is an inspiring story of grit and determination. Humans have evolved; so has technology, particularly when it comes to leveraging it for communication. ChatGPT is the latest example, having taken the Internet by storm. City Tech breaks down the phenomenon and explains what it is all about and what this development portends for the future. The Padma awards are India’s highest civilian honour. The past few years have seen a conscious attempt to make it a ‘People’s Padma’, with a clear emphasis on the work done by individuals at the grass-roots level. The list of 106 Padma awardees announced for 2023 includes four from Odisha. In CityZen, we salute the spirit and the accomplishments of these Padma Shri awardees. While Bhubaneswar has seen a lot of development in recent years, it has continued to grapple with one of urbanisation’s toughest challenges – cleanliness and waste management. Things are, however, set to change with the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation deciding to take this challenge head-on. In City Beat, we take a look at how BMC is trying to make the state capital the cleanest city in India. The law and the legal institutions not only need to keep pace with the changing world, they also have to be accessible to all. This is particularly true when it comes to women, including those who find themselves on the wrong side of the digital divide in an era where information is essential for empowerment. A special feature in City Affairs digs deep into the subject of law and gender and tries to figure out the way ahead.




Writing and Publishing Qualitative Research


Book Description

Ideal for graduate students and more seasoned qualitative researchers, this is the first guide to writing and publishing in a range of both scholarly and popular formats--from journal articles and monographs to op-eds and fictional works. Award-winning author Patricia Leavy covers everything from how to develop a unique writer's voice to how to craft a successful book proposal, understand a publishing contract, establish relationships with editors, and much more. The book is filled with effective tools for using data and theory in different genres of writing, building a profile as a scholar, and getting research findings out into the world. Instructive features throughout include “dos and don’ts," writing prompts, annotated sample letters and proposals, excerpts from published works, and end-of-chapter writing activities.




The Art Dealer's Apprentice


Book Description

The Art Dealer’s Apprentice tells the story of how the author moved to New York in 1989 as a young Midwesterner, found a job at an Upper East Side gallery, and became the protégé of Carla Panicali, an Italian countess and major international art world figure. From Carla – an extraordinary woman whom he deeply admired – the author learned to navigate the treacherous waters of authenticity, power and money in the art business and his own life. As gallery director, he gradually piloted the gallery through a sea of fakes, frauds, and unscrupulous colleagues, competitors, collectors and experts, until the art market crashed, and in the ensuing crisis, in the increasingly money-driven art world of the 1990s, he came to question even the authenticity of his friendship with Carla. In The Art Dealer’s Apprentice, the author recounts how he learned the New York art business from the inside, including the roles of dealers, auction houses, runners, collectors and experts; the personal histories of famous artists and the art historical importance and salability of their work; and how paintings and sculptures were (or were not) authenticated and sold, often based, surprisingly, on factors having little to do with the artwork itself. The author also details how international business was done, in some cases through illicit transport of artworks, payoffs to experts, and Swiss bank accounts. Increasingly disillusioned, the author ultimately concludes that by the early 1990s, the art business was no longer really about art.




DSSSB Various Post Recruitment Exam 2024 (English Edition) | Tier-1 (General) - Warder, Matron, Laboratory Attendant, Assistant Superintendent | 10 Practice Tests (2000 Solved MCQ)


Book Description

• Best Selling Book in English Edition for DSSSB Warder, Matron & Various Post Recruitment Exam with objective-type questions as per the latest syllabus. • DSSSB Warder, Matron & Various Post Recruitment Exam Preparation Kit comes with 10 Practice Tests with the best quality content. • Increase your chances of selection by 16X. • DSSSB Warder, Matron & Various Post Recruitment Exam Prep Kit comes with well-structured and 100% detailed solutions for all the questions. • Clear exam with good grades using thoroughly Researched Content by experts.