The Year in Which the COVID-19 Pandemic Held the World in a Deadly Grip Has Also Left Behind Some Memories to Cherish

Home , Anubhav Mohanty, Bhisham Sahni, Bijay Mohanty, Minati Mishra, Ravana chhaya, Sabyasachi Mishra

POSTAL REGD. NO. BN/237/20-22 rni REGD. NO. ODIENG/2013/51524 Vol-8, Issue-10 january, 2021 Bhubaneswar Pages 40 price `20 moving ahead...together

flash b ck The year in which the COVID-19 pandemic held the world in a deadly grip has also left behind some memories to cherish

follow @MyCityLinks @MyCityLinks @MyCityLinks.in @MyCityLinks www.mycitylinks.in cover | story www.mycitylinks.in

moving ahead...together

Vol-8, Issue-10 january, 2021 Bhubaneswar editor's desk

Group Editor: Sandeep Mishra Consulting Editor: Vinay Jha As 2021 Beckons, Some Positive Takeaways Editor: Satyabrat (Sanu) Ratho From A Year That One Would Want To Forget Senior Associate Editor: Dikhya Tiwari s one looks back at 2020, nothing Swasti Singh has been pedaling her way to Associate Editor: defines the year better than what glory since she burst onto the cycling scene in made headlines more often than 2015. From making a mark at the state level to Monojit Dasgupta not - the COVID-19 pandemic. winning her first national title in 2018, her early Publisher : Yet, there were moments, includ- years in the sport laid the foundation for what Sameer Hans ingA several even as the pandemic raged on, that would soon turn into an impressive career. The Chief Content Supervisor: make one believe that the year was not entirely 17-year-old sensation is our Sportsperson of the Debi Prasad Sahu about doom and gloom. In our Cover Story, we Month. look at some of these moments which made Odi- The Kalinga Stadium Sports Complex has Reporters: sha and its people proud. been giving a sense of purpose and direction to Jyoti Prakash Sahoo Like many other sectors, the Odia entertain- sportspersons for some time now. Read about Debamitra Mishra ment industry also bore the brunt of the pan- the Abhinav Bindra Targeting Performance Cen- Design: demic’s fallout - only three feature films were tre, in City Sports. MJ DESIGN released during the year. There were, however, With people beginning to move out of the safe significant achievements in the digital entertain- confines of their house, we thought this was a Consultant Marketing: ment industry - from videos to shows to short good time to take a close look at the fashion Bikash Kumar films. Read more about this in our Cover Story trends this winter. From classic and chic to bohe- Roy Choudhry package. mian and sporty, our Fashion section brings you Consultant Pandemics and diseases that claimed a large the lowdown on everything that’s hot this winter. circulation and Sales: number of lives have found a way into works of Elsewhere in this edition, we also bring you some By Debi Prasad Sahu Ashok Sahani literature over many centuries. From incidents in handy tips for a healthy winter. early Greek history to the Black Death in Europe Ranjeet Rajwada’s musical journey began at Executive (Sales): and the Spanish Flu in the last century, there the age of five and he has now reached a stage Subhasmita Jena have been many books on these outbreaks. As where he is referred to as the ‘Prince of Ghazal’. 020 has been a watershed Himani Das a year completely dominated and controlled by There have been awards and accolades aplenty year in more ways than one. Subscription & Circulation: COVID-19 comes to an end, this edition takes a along the way, and he tells us all about it in a The year began with much Rashmikanta Pradhan look at some of these literary works. free-wheeling conversation. hope and joy as it marked the beginning of the second Social Media & decade of the 21st century. Everything by rakesh kumar roul 2 Content Executive: seemed normal,but a pandemic was Megha Mohapatra brewing in the backdrop. idiot of my city There was a faint noise of a viral outbreak that had begun in Decem- Printed & Published by Sameer Hans on behalf of PNV Ventures Pvt Ltd, 108/B, Janpath, Unit III, Bhubaneswar – 1. 2020 ber 2019 in Wuhan in China’s Hubei Phone: 0674-2394586/87 province. By the end of January, the  Editor : Satyabrat (Sanu) Ratho [email protected], www.mycitylinks.in virus had spread to more than a dozen Printed at Perfect Print & Graphics Pvt. Ltd., countries around the world and Italy 154-Sector-A, Zone-B, Mancheswar Industrial Estate, Bhubaneswar - 10 was bearing the brunt of the deadly virus which is now known as SARS- CoV2. The novel coronavirus was first de- tected in India on January 30, 2020 and it reached Odisha on March 16. The atmosphere in Bhubaneswar was Phew! electrified as people watched the de- velopments unfold on their television My Mantra: What A Year screens and digital devices. Mask on, On March 23 Odisha entered an Helmet off!! unprecedented lockdown that would last till the end of May. Life came to a standstill as Odisha worked rapid- Disclaimer: While all efforts have been made to ensure the correctness It Was of the content compiled for this publication, PNV Ventures Pvt. Ltd. ly on building COVID infrastructure. assumes no responsibility for the effects arising therefrom January 2021 | my city links 3 COVER | STORY COVER | STORY www.mycitylinks.in 2020 2020 www.mycitylinks.in

As the lockdown came to an end there was a rapid influx of migrants Bhubaneswar Hosts Debut from all over the country and from Edition Of Corporate Icon across the world and the number of Awards COVID positive cases spiralled out The beacons of the corporate world of control. and some stunning creations by Masks, hand hygiene and phys- the best fashion designers in Odi- ical distancing became the new sha were feted at the 1st edition norm. Since then life has been of the Corporate Icon Awards and slowly limping back to normalcy, 3rd Bhubaneswar Runway Week but 2020 has been a year of years. hosted by My City Links at May- Whether the virus infected some- fair Convention in Bhubaneswar. one or not but it touched and af- The Corporate Icon Awards 2020 fected everyone’s life in one way or honoured industry leaders and the other. path-breakers in the world of busi- However 2020 was not only ness in Odisha. These leaders were about the pandemic. This year has felicitated by Chief Secretary Asit given us some bittersweet mem- Kumar Tripathy, who appreciated ories to remember and has made them for their dedication to excel- us realise the importance of little lence, innovation and commitment things in life that we took for grant- to take Odisha ahead in the corpo- ed. My City Links takes a look at rate world. some of the moments; the good, the bad and the ugly that brought Bhubaneswar Witnesses Cyclone Amphan us to where we are now. First Park Utsav From the first dedicated COVID After the success of Patha Utsav, hospital in the country to the dalgo- denizens of Bhubaneswar wit- while also experiencing art at its Odia leader and hero Biju Patnaik performing arts of Chhau Dance Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi. na coffee, from a last moment Rath nessed the first Park Utsav hosted best at the curated festival. More titled ‘The Adventures of The Dare- and Ravana Chhaya represent the Saraswati’s family could not reach Yatra in Puri to the death of the leg- by Bhubaneswar Municipal Cor- than 27 restaurants, 19 organic devil Democrat’ was released by rich cultural heritage and diversity Delhi to receive her mortal remains end Bijay Mohanty, from Nijigarh poration (BMC) and Bhubaneswar produce vendors, three fashion de- Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on of Odisha. While Manabasa Gu- as the country was at the height of Tapang to money heist. Odias and Development Authority (BDA) at signers along with ghost kitchens, March 6 during a function in Bhu- rubara was included in the practic- a strict lockdown. Odisha went through the entire twocity parks. More than 3,000 artists, beat boxers, dance troupes, baneswar. A Delhi-based publish- es, rituals and festive events cate- spectrum of emotions in 2020. Here people gathered at Indira Gandhi & rappers participated in the event. er, ‘The Creative Workshop’, has gory, the other two traditions were SUM Hospital Conducts are some of the highlights. Sona Mohapatra and Ram Sampath at EAT Fest Park and Madhusudan Das Park published the comic. The book is included in the performing arts cat- First Live Liver Transplant and participated in various info- Ajay Kumar Patnaik Gets available in both English and Odia egory. This came as positive news In a first for Odisha, the Institute Odisha Recognised For tainment activities. To motivate Sahitya Akademi Award languages. With excellent illustrat- while the state was grappling with of Medical Sciences (IMS) and Having The Cleanest people to be a part of the ‘No to For Translation ed comic artwork, the book nar- the lockdown. SUM Hospital in Bhubaneswar Coastline Plastic’ campaign, BMC distributed Writer Ajay Kumar Patnaik re- rates the various adventures of Biju successfully conducted a liver According to a report released by more than 1200 cotton bags. ceived the Kendra Sahitya Akademi Babu. Humanitarian Gesture transplantation from a living do- the National Centre for Coastal Award for the year 2019. He was Former Indian cricketer and MP, nor. The path-breaking surgery Research (NCCR), Odisha has the Odisha Introduces Climate selected for the award for his book Cultural Heritage Gautam Gambhir cremated the was conducted on 55-year-old least polluted coastline while Puri Change Budget ‘Shrestha Hindi Galpa’, a compila- Honours body of Saraswati Patra in April, Jayanta Biswal, who was suffer- beach was adjudged the second In a first for the country, Odisha tion of Hindi stories translated into Odisha’s Manabasa Gurubara, Ch- who had been taking care of his ing from cryptogenic cirrhosis of cleanest beach in the country. which has set new precedents in Odia language. The book contains hau Dance and Ravana Chhaya family. Gautam addressed Saras- the liver. The donor was Biswal’s disaster preparedness and has 25 short stories of some of the were included in the list of Intangi- wati as family in a tweet. She son Saumya Ranjan. The mara- SPORT IT 2020 tackled numerous natural calami- most prominent Hindi writers like ble Cultural Heritage (ICH) of India hailed from Kusunpur village of thon surgery of nine hours and the India’s first sports and innovation ties with minimal losses to life pre- Yashpal, Bhisham Sahni, Jaishan- on April 22. The traditional ritual of Jajpur and was undergoing treat- doctors at IMS and SUM Hospital festival ‘SPORT IT 2020’ was or- sented a separate climate budget kar Prasad, Prem Chand, Bhagwati Manabasa Gurubara and the two ment for pre-existing conditions at were helped by experts from Hy- ganised at the Kalinga Stadium during State Budget 2020-21 in Charan Verma, Mohan Rakesh, and derabad-based Yashoda Hospital in the sports capital of India, Bhu- February. The climate budget was Mannu Bhandari among others. to conduct the surgery. baneswar. It was organised by aimed at keeping a track of all the XAVIER EMLYON Business School government expenditures made for Tarang Plus Breaks Olive Ridley (XEBS) and Sports and Youth Ser- climate change or to support miti- Stereotypes Hatching Record vices Department, Government of gation and adaptation actions to This year, Tarang Plus became For the first time in seven years, Odisha. At the event, Chief Minister Dahibara Aludum was crowned the best street food in the country at the 11th National address climate change.This year, the first Odia entertainment OTT mass nesting of Olive Ridley tur- Naveen Patnaik urged start-ups Street Food Festival the Odisha government introduced platform to break prejudices on tles was witnessed during day- and entrepreneurs to invest in the a paperless budget and presented gender stereotypes and sexual time on the beaches of Rushiku- sports sector of the State. is organized by the group Culinary Panel Set Up In Odisha the budget on iPads. orientation. The web series ‘Chum- lya, Gahirmatha and Padampetta Culture. The title on the certificate For the first time in the country, the bak’, which starred Tamanna Vyas in the last week of March. This Dahibara-Aloodum Of read Cuttack’s Dahibara-Aloodum Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Creative Communities Of and Divyadisha Mohanty in lead year, around 7 lakh turtles visit- Cuttack Wins Big At is ‘Top East-Zone Street Food set up an Indian Women’s Entre- Twin Cities Come Together roles and was directed by Susant ed Odisha’s coast for mass and National Street Food Fest Stall’. The man of the moment and preneurship Committee (IWEC) to At EAT Fest Mani,told the story of love between sporadic nesting. Around 4.7 lakh The king of Odia street food, Da- the proud owner of this Dahiba- motivate women entrepreneurs in The denizens of Bhubaneswar and two people of the same gender. Olive Ridley turtles had laid eggs hibara-Aloodum, was crowned ra-Aloodum cart at Shelter Chaka Odisha. As part of the launch, the Cuttack had a sumptuous time at at Gahirmatha, Agarnasi island, the best street food in the country is Cuttack-based Babula. first mega ‘Women’s Leadership the EAT Fest held on February 22 Biju Babu–The Superhero Pentha, Satabhaya beach, Ba- at the 11th National Street Food Summit’ was organised in Bhu- and 23 when they got to taste an In Comics runei river mouth and Babubali Festival in New Delhi. This festival First Women Entrepreneur baneswar. envious spread of amazing food A comic book on the legendary Record Olive Ridley mass nesting witnessed this year island. At Rushikulya rookery, the

4 my city links | January 2021 January 2021 | my city links 5 COVER | STORY COVER | STORY www.mycitylinks.in 2020 2020 www.mycitylinks.in

and their implications in daily life.

Samaritan For Migrants Bollywood actor Sonu Sood delivered happiness to Odisha as he got 117 Odia girls airlifted from Kerala. The girls were stuck in Kerala due to the nationwide lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus.

‘Bande Utkal Janani’ Gets State Anthem Status ‘Bande Utkal Janani’ was officially accorded the status of the state anthem of Odisha on June 7. A proposal in this regard was passed at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. The patri- otic song was penned in 1912 by Kanthakabi Laxmikanta Mohapa- tra in Sanskrit. It was the opening song of ‘Utkal Sammilani’ during the struggle for the formation of a separate Odia province.

Tic-Tac-Toe Between Ratha Yatra 2020, sans devotees Hockey India And Odisha Sports As people traded their way cau- ‘Bande Utkal Janani’ tiously through unlock 1.0, gloom- was officially number was around 3,23,063. tomers as they didn’t have to visit iness had not yet been able to accorded the status a crowded liquor shop or stand in break their spirits. While people of the state anthem Cyclone Amphan long queues amid the corona scare. were still at home out of fear and of Odisha on June 7. Brushes By concern, Hockey India and Odisha A proposal in this Amphan was the first super - cy Special Postal Cover Sports had a couple of fun rounds regard was passed at a clonic storm in the Bay of Bengal On COVID-19 of light-hearted tic-tac-toe on their Cabinet meeting chaired since 1999 and it brought back the A special cover on ‘COVID 19 Glob- official twitter handles. The two- by CM Naveen Patnaik memories of 2019’s Fani. People al Pandemic’ and a pack of 10 match challenge was put forward were scared to have a storm in the picture postcards on great person- by Hockey India to Odisha Sports middle of a pandemic, but it only alities of Odisha were released by which they accepted wholeheart- modified its June 18 order where it brushed through Odisha coast to Governor Ganeshi Lal. The cover edly and had a go. Their game had put a stay on Rath Yatra due make landfall in neighbouring West is designed based on the works of not only drove away dullness for to the COVID-19 pandemic and Bengal on May 20. Although it did Apindra Swain, a Pattachitra artist a while, but many followers were allowed the Chariot Festival to be not cause much damage in Odisha, from the heritage village of Raghu- reminded of their childhood when held on June 23, without allow- it did so in West Bengal and Ban- rajpur. The paintings depict the ev- they used to play this game with ing congregation of devotees. The gladesh. eryday activities of people at home pen and paper or chalk and slate. devotees were worried that if Lord using masks. Jagannath would not come out on Zomato Stirs A Row Zomato introduced period leaves Captain Madhusmita Rath Yatra, he cannot come out for Zomato, the go-to food delivery Odisha CM Among Top 10 Patnaik Brings Odias 12 years as per traditions. Review- app of the twin cities committed Influential Indians Home From UAE ing the petitions filed by various or- blasphemy by stating Dahibara Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik was “Jai Jagannath! I wish you all a ganisations to allow the Rath Yatra, Aloodum as a South Indian dish! ranked 10th in the list of ’50 Influ- Happy Raja. I, Captain Madhusmi- a bench headed by Chief Justice SA Though the mistake was rectified, ential Indians Of 2020′, as per the ta Patnaik, invite you onboard this Bobde stated that the Jagannath it did create a stir on social media. survey conducted by Fame India special Air Arabia flight. It is my Temple management committee magazine and Asia Post. pleasure to fly you back home to and state government can conduct Cheers To Home your loved ones on this auspicious the Rath Yatra in accordance with Delivery Of Liquor KIIT International day of Pahili Raja,” came the an- the guidelines. The court directed The Government of Odisha decid- Student Shines In Global nouncement in Odia over the PA the authorities to conduct the Rath ed to restart the sale of liquor from Competition system as the 215 Odias onboard Yatra in a very restricted manner May 24. This news delighted the Saatwik Panigrahi of KIIT Interna- Air Arabia flight G9 645 cheered without allowing the congregation citizens of the capital city who had tional School has become one of the and clapped with joy before it took of devotees. been eagerly waiting to have a sip top three winners of an online com- off from Sharjah to Bhubaneswar of their favourite beverage since the petition called ‘Beyond The Class- on June 14. Rath Yatra 2020 – A Festival lockdown began in March. The sale room Webinar Series’ organised by Sans Devotees of liquor was permitted through on- Queen Mary University of London. Rath Yatra Gets For the first time in history of Rath line orders and home delivery ser- The competition was about ‘merg- A Go Ahead Yatra, the grand event was held Naveen was declared as one of the most powerful person in the country vices which made it easier for cus- ers as a survival/ growth strategy The Supreme Court on June 22 Captain Madhusmita brought back stranded Odias from the Middle East without the participation of any

6 my city links | January 2021 January 2021 | my city links 7 cover | story cover | story www.mycitylinks.in 2020 2020 www.mycitylinks.in devotees as servitors pulled the ing. Randhari, who has around 23 chariots of the Trinity on Bada acres of farming land, ploughs the Danda (Grand Road). Following a fields with the help of his bulls and Supreme Court nod, the excitement plants paddy saplings along with among millions of devotees across his co-workers. the globe knew no bounds. Glued to their TV screens to get a glimpse Maritime Gallery, A New of the Trinity, many devotees could Addition To State Museum not control their tears of joy as the The new gallery has been added three chariots rolled out on the in association with Odisha Institute Grand Road. Held during extraor- of Maritime and South-East Asian dinary times, this year’s Rath Yatra Studies (OIMSEAS). Each of the 12 will be etched in history books for- sections describes the maritime his- ever. tory of Odisha. While one section showcases the roots of maritime in Kandhamal Girl Becomes the state, the others showcase the First Flying Officer From export and import scenario during District those days. Sushree Sai Pranita Mohanty of Kendupadar village of Kandhamal Odia Techie Biswatma’s district became the first Odia girl ‘Chingari’ App Makes Hay from the district to be appointed Developed in 2018 by a young as a flying officer in the Indian Air Odia programmer from Cuttack, Force. She has been commissioned Biswatma Nayak and his partner Krushi Bhawan to the meteorological branch. Her Siddharth Gautam, both of whom inclination for a career in the de- are now based in Bengaluru, fence services began during her Chingari is being hailed as India’s Odisha By Road Campaign PhD and she quit it halfway to join alternative to TikTok and the young The tourism industry in Odisha the defence services. founders are now excited to bring was shut since March this year in more success and glory for this due to the COVID 19 pandemic. Stadiums Turn COVID home-grown app. The business of hotels, restau- Care Centres rants, tours and travels dealers and Back in July, Odisha was in the mid- SOA Students Shine In other tourism associated sectors dle of a COVID storm and it seemed Robotics Challenge were severely affected during the relentless. With the number of pos- Five students Jivitesh Debata, Arun lockdown. After remaining shut for itive cases rising fast, the govern- Kumar Mohanty, Manosini Dash, almost seven months, the Odisha ment decided to convertBarabati Mohammed Azmal and Anshuman Tourism Department launchedthe Stadium and Jawaharlal Nehru Pandia from the Department of En- ‘Odisha By Road Campaign’ to Stadium into COVID care facilities. gineering and Technology of SOA boost the industry. Deemed to be University came up Tribal Teen Rescues with a remarkable performance to Odia Professor Honoured 6,000 Labourers qualify for Level-2 in the Flipkart With Science Award Manasi Bariha, a 19-year-old tribal GRiD 2.0 Robotics Challenge as the Professor Jyotirmayee Dash was girl from Odisha’s Balangir district, only team from Odisha other than Comet NEOWISE awarded the Shanti Swarup Bhat- helped rescue more than 6,000 la- IIT and NIT. nagar Award 2020 in Chemical bourers trapped in different brick Sciences. It is the highest award kilns of Tamil Nadu during the Bhubaneswar in India in the field of Science and COVID-19 pandemic. The teenager Photographer Dates Technology. Dash is the first Odia 19 year old Manasi Bariha rescued 6000 labourers managed to do so after she mus- Comet NEOWISE woman to get the honour. Current- tered courage and alerted her rel- After watching and waiting for 10 ly, she is working at the School of atives about the kiln owner’s brutal ployees, whereby they can apply the idea of doing this video series days, Bhubaneswar-based pho- Chemical Sciences, Indian Associa- attack on the workers wanting to for 10 such days off a year. The because of their shared interest in to journalist Rakesh Kumar Roul tion for the Cultivation of Sciences return home during the lockdown. Indian restaurant aggregator and food and inspiration — Nihar De- was finally rewarded with a clear in Kolkata. food delivery start-up announced sai’s food series ‘Aav re Varsaad’. shot of Comet NEOWISE in the sky. First Tsunami Ready this on August 8. The series became a rage because He captured the rare sight with Krushi Bhawan Wins Big Villages In Country of its production quality, visuals his Nikon 200-500 mm lens while At AZ Awards Odisha became the first state to Bou Kahuthile – A Fresh and narrative. standing at Jhumka Dam on the Krushi Bhawan in Bhubaneswar have two tsunami-ready villages Insight Into Odia Cuisine outskirts of Bhubaneswar. Dutee Chand Biswatma Nayak has been wowing and inspiring in August.The Intergovernmental Two Odia siblings; Shilpi and Raj Odisha MLA Sets Example architects and designers ever since Oceanographic Commission (IOC) Sampad, breathed fresh air into For Nation’s Youth New Species Of Gecko of the genus Hemiphyllodactylus is sha, Dutee Chand was conferred its inception. Now, the architectural of UNESCO recognised Venkatrai- The series became a hit because of its pro- the way we see and feel Odia food The video of the Dabugaon leg- Discovered In Odisha named Hemiphyllodactylus mini- with the prestigious Arjuna Award marvel has added another feather pur (Boxipalli) village of Rangei- duction quality, visuals and narrative through their video series ‘Bou Ka- islator, Manohar Randhari from The new species of gecko is just mus and it is the smallest member for the year 2020 on August 29. to its cap by winning the People’s lunda block in Ganjam district and huthile. ‘Bou’ means mother and Odisha’s Nabarangpur district over 6 cm in length and it was dis- in the genus. She received the award from Choice Award in the Social Good Noliasahi village of Erasama block Period Leaves ‘Kahuthile’ means used to say. This ploughing his fields in ankle-deep covered by a team of researchers President Ram Nath Kovind via a category at the 2020 AZ Awards. in Jagatsinghpur district for great- Zomato delivered a much needed series is a celebration of the food water went viral, winning praises near a sacred grove near the vil- Dutee Chand Wins video conferencing programme on er preparedness to face a tsunami reliefas it introduced “period leaves” that their grandmother loved to from all quarters for his dedica- lage of Humma in Rambha tehsil Arjuna Award the occasion of National Sports Sumitra Nayak Represents disaster. for its female and transgender em- cook. Together, the duo hatched tion to his first profession of farm- of Ganjam district. The new species Ace sprinter and the pride of Odi- Day. India At Asia Rugby

8 my city links | January 2021 January 2021 | my city links 9 COVER | STORY www.mycitylinks.in 2020

Unstoppable Campaign Odia rugby star Sumitra Nayak has been selected to represent India at the Asia Rugby Unstoppable campaign. Besides Sumitra, Sandhya Rai of West Bengal and Vahbiz Bharucha of Maharashtra were also part of the Indian contingent at the event.

Tipo Morris Honours Odia COVID Hero Nilachala Parida South African cricketer and Royal Challengers Bangalore star Chris ‘Tipo’ Morris paid tribute to Bhu- baneswar’s COVID hero Nilachala Parida by wearing his name on his jersey during the match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday.

Inspirational Culinary Legacy Of Chef Rahim Much before the food scene of Blue Flag Beach in Puri Bhubaneswar and Cuttack started buzzing with young chefs and pâ- tissiers, Chef Abdul Rahim fondly rosurgeon and professor, passed known as Chef Rahim, had cre- away at his residence in Cuttack ated a legacy that is unparalleled on July 9. He died of cancer and and unmatchable in stature. In the at the age of 86. world of food he created a unique Nadiya Bihari Mohanty, Odia identity for himself and has his own children literature’s favourite fan following. He was the earliest ‘Bada Bhai’ died due to COVID Executive Chef of Odisha. Chef 19 in September. He was 90. Rahim was not trained in any cu- Minati Mishra, Odissi dancer linary school or did not do a hotel passed away on January 6, at management course but his hands Switzerland. She was 91. created magic in the kitchen. Eco Retreat 2020 Prafulla Chandra Ratho, former Director-General of Odisha Blue Flag Tag For Puri’s Police, IPS, breathed his last at Golden Beach the age of 85 on February 11. In an honour that is going to boost Rabindranath Pratihari, senior the tourism potential of Odisha, the sevayat of Jagannath temple of Golden Beach in Puri received the Puri, passed away at a private coveted ‘Blue Flag’ tag on October hospital in Bhubaneswar on 11. The certification was awarded September 16. He was 79. by the Denmark-based Foundation Pradeep Maharathy, former for Environmental Education (FEE) Odisha minister and veteran Biju for the stringent environmental Janata Dal MLA passed away on norms and world class sustainable October 4, weeks after he tested tourist amenities at the beach. This positive for COVID-19. He was important eco-label will aid in the 66. Eco Retreat 2019 process of making Puri a World Rudra Prasad, brilliant video Heritage City and a world-class editor and a well-known name in tourist destination. had already given a go-ahead for officer, passed away at a Mum- the Odisha Media Industry, died opening the 12th-century shrine a bai hospital on July 21. He was of cardiac arrest at the age of 43. Puri Srimandir Opens On few days ago, but it had sent rec- 67. He was found to be positive of December 23 ommendation for final decision to Sushila Devi, Odisha Governor COVID-19. The long wait of devotees of Lord the Government of Odisha. Ganeshi Lal’s wife and the First This year, the PNV family also Jagannath came to an end after Lady of the state (74) died on lost a star of its digital team, months of longing to witness their In Memoriam - People We November 22. Kamal Mishra, in a road crash. favourite God. The district admin- Lost This Year Dr. Sushama Panigrahi, first He was one of the most val- istration of Puri took the decision Prabir Kumar Pradhan, senior woman scientist of ISRO from ued and loved member of our to open the 12th century temple crime reporter succumbed to Odisha passed away this year family. for devotees from 23 December, COVID-19 infection on Novem- in Ahmedabad at the age of 67. albeit with restrictions.The Shree ber 5. She died of cancer. (With inputs by Jagannath Temple Administration Priyabrata Patnaik, retired IAS Dr. Sanatan Rath, eminent neu- Debamitra Mishra)

10 my city links | January 2021 COVER | STORY COVER | STORY www.mycitylinks.in 2020 2020 www.mycitylinks.in

The year 2020 taught us a lot of things as we got used to the idea of staying indoors and away from our loved ones. As the coronavirus spread its tentacles around the world, many words became a part of our WOrds That Entered lexicon as we learned to use them in our everyday lives. Some were apt while others needed to be updated or modified like ‘social distancing’. Even though we continued to stay physically apart from our near and dear ones, we certainly came socially closer through digital devices and the internet. My City Links has Our Lexicon In 2020 assembled a list of the words that became part of our daily usage in 2020

This is an acronym for the disease that Although the word is fairly common and almost Another commonly used term during the COVID-19 ‘Quarantine’ was one of the most searched A personal protective equipment (PPE), This mode of remote working became the new norm is caused by the new coronavirus and it everyone has heard or read it somewhere or the pandemic is ‘containment zone’. It is used to de- words this year. It means something similar is a specialised clothing item used as as offices around the world shut down while nobody stands for ‘Coronavirus Disease 2019’. other, it became part of our everyday discourse scribe a geographical area with limited access in or to isolation but with stricter protocols. Unlike a safeguard against health hazards had a clue about how to go ahead. This was not a Although scientists around the world in 2020. The word took on urgent specificity out to contain an outbreak. With the rising number isolation, quarantine involves separating and including exposure to infectious diseases new concept but the COVID 19 pandemic made it have identified some common symp- this year after the coronavirus epidemic was of COVID-19 cases, governments around the world restricting the movements of people who through physical contact or airborne universal. This was welcomed by many employees toms, it is very difficult to identify as in declared a pandemic by the World Health took several measures to put a break on the spread were exposed to a contagious disease to see particles. PPEs are designed to protect and soon companies started weighing in the option many cases the infected person remains Organisation (WHO) on March 11. Pandemics of the virus and demarcationsof areas as red, if they become sick. Quarantine was imposed parts of the body that are typically of allowing them to permanently work from home. asymptomatic. In cases of people who have happened many times throughout human orange, green or containment zone based on the se- on someone who was exposed to COVID-19 exposed in normal attire like the face, This became beneficial for both the employers as they have a compromised immune system, history, but the current one is unprecedented in verity of the spread. These containment zones were to avoid the spread of the disease to others hands and feet. The World Health Or- could cut down logistical costs and for the employ- their health deteriorates fast and it nature in terms of scale and impact. The coro- identified by the Rapid Response Teams (RRT) and if they get sick. Many countries including ganization (WHO) listed gloves, medical ees because they saved a lot of commute time and becomes challenging for doctors and navirus pandemic has reached almost every created to map the local transmission of the disease India have put in place quarantine facilities to masks, goggles, face shields, gowns, could spend more time with family. WFH during the healthcare workers to save lives. single nation on the planet. and prevent the contagion. monitor entrants into their territories. respirators and aprons as parts of PPE. pandemic proved without doubt that employees can indeed be trusted to still be productive, even when far.

COVID 19 Corona virus Pandemic Lockdown Containment Zone Essential Worker or Frontline Worker Quarantine Sanitizers PPE Social Distancing Work From Home or WFH Zoom Meeting

In the scientific and medical communities, the Before 2020, lockdowns were generally Getting through 2020 required a humon- Sanitizers are used to reduce or This is yet another important term that became part of Undoubtedly the Zoom app was the virus that causes the COVID-19 disease is initiated in circumstances of violence or gous and heroic effort onthe part of many eliminate germs. This term started everyday usage this year. This is also the most wrongly most successful business of the year. known as ‘Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome terrorism and they happened rarely. This whom we learned to call and respect as to trend after the WHO guidelines used term this year. It was supposed to mean physical It came out of obscurity and became Coronavirus 2 or SARS-CoV 2. This virus belongs year it came to mean something less in- essential workers or frontline warriors. on coronavirus mentioned that distancing as we continued to be socially as active as the trend of the year. Prior to March, to the family of coronaviruses (CoV),with this tense and much bigger. Entire cities and These are the ones who kept the world washing of hands and regularly ever. As per advisory by the government, social distanc- hardly anyone had ever heard of particular strain being novel in nature and pre- countries went into lockdown for weeks running as we cooped up in our homes using hand sanitizer are important ing is a non-pharmaceutical infection prevention and Zoom. Since then, we have all been viously not identified in humans. On 30 January and months. Just like social distancing, through the lockdowns and shutdowns. steps for preventing COVID 19. The control intervention implemented to avoid or decrease Zooming for work or for hanging out 2020, DrTedrosAdhanomGhebreyesus, WHO the term had different nuances at differ- Healthcare workers, cleaning staff, grocery public was advised to wash their contact between those who are infected and those who with friends and family. For those Director-General, declared the novel coronavirus ent places and at different times. In most store employees, transportation workers, hands with soap for about 20 sec- are not, to stop or slow down the rate and extent of dis- who turn the video facility on, there’s outbreak a public health emergency of interna- of the cases it was an order for people to postal workers, police and media personnel onds or use an alcohol-based hand ease transmission in a community. Maintaining physical an opportunity to entertain yourself tional concern (PHEIC) — WHO’s highest level of stay indoors except stepping out to get and many others rose to the occasion and rub or sanitizer. Today, everyone distance was possible due to the advancement of digi- by examining your colleagues’ taste alarm. At that time there were 98 cases and no essential goods and services. worked tirelessly for the benefit of all. . carries a bottle of sanitizerin their tal technology and communication over the internet. in interior design. deaths in 18 countries outside China. pockets.

12 my city links | January 2021 January 2021 | my city links 13 cover | story cover | story www.mycitylinks.in 2020 2020 www.mycitylinks.in

the best and worst of Odia entertainment industry this year.

Achievements On December 19, Information and And The Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar announced 23 feature and 20 non-feature films to be showcased in the Indian Panora- ma section of the 51st Interna- tional Film Festival of India (IFFI). Only one Odia film, ‘Kalira Atita’ (Yesterday’s Past) was selected in the feature film category. The movie, directed by national award winning filmmaker Nila Madhab Panda, is inspired by prophecies of Achyutananda Das, a 16th century Like many sectors, saint from Odisha. He had written Odia entertainment about the doomsday in his famous Yindustry too bore the ear book titled ‘Achutananda Malika’. That Was Odia producer Akshay Kumar brunt of coronavirus. Parija’s ‘Paika Bidroha’ (Paika Re- Usually, around 40 bellion) won the Special Jury Award Odia films are made By Jyoti Prakash Sahoo at 9th Mumbai International Short Film Festival this year. The film is Odia producer Akshay in a year but in 2020, Kumar Parija’s ‘Paika only three movies based on the Paika rebellion which took place in Odisha in 1817. It was Bidroha’ (Paika - ‘Babu Bhaijan’, 020 was an unforgettable year. an armed rebellion led by Paika Rebellion) won the ‘Paradesi Chadhei’ The Covid-19 pandemic ravaged leader Buxi Jagabandhu against Special Jury Award and ‘Queen’ - made every sphere of life and posed vari- the then British East India Compa- at 9th Mumbai it to the theatres ous hardships that none of us could ny’s rule. International Short have ever predicted. It seriously im- ‘Human O.A.K’, a 15-minute Film Festival this year. 2 short film produced during the The film is based on the peak of Covid-19 outbreak, was Paika rebellion jointly produced by Odisha-born at Madrid International Film Festi- which took place in internationally acclaimed produc- val, 2020. The set for the film was Odisha in 1817 er Jitendra Mishra and renowned designed by Odisha-born celebrat- Italian filmmaker Ulisse Lendaro. It ed Bollywood art director Sukant premiered at the prestigious Olym- Panigrahi. documentary ‘Shut Up Sona’ was pia International Film Festival for Ram Gopal Varma’s ‘Thriller’ screened at the world’s biggest Children and Young People, Greece featured two actors from Odisha documentary film festival ‘Hot Docs in the competition section. - Apsara Rani and Rock Kacchi in Festival’ on May 28 in Toronto. In pacted the economy, destroying livelihoods of ‘Abhilash’, an Odia short film lead roles. On July 10, RGV intro- view of the coronavirus pandem- people across Odisha. Like many sectors, Odia based on the Covid-19 lockdown, ic, the festival authorities decid- entertainment industry too bore the brunt of was screened at Cannes Interna- ed to celebrate the spirit of mov- coronavirus. Usually, around 40 Odia films are tional Film Festival in France. The ie-making and filmmakers through made in a year but in 2020, only three movies - film, which is helmed by Director multi-platform ‘festival-at-home’. ‘Babu Bhaijan’, ‘Paradesi Chadhei’ and ‘Queen’ of Nrutya Kala Gabesana Kendra Bollywood singer and Odia girl - made it to the theatres. ‘Babu Bhaijan’ starring Guru Krishna Chandra Sahu, en- Lisa Mishra’s song ‘Sajna Ve’ fea- Arindam and Sivani in lead roles was the first tered the final round of selection tured in Lady Gaga’s charitable film released this year. In ‘Paradesi Chadhei’, by the juries of nine countries. duced his new heroine Apsara show ‘One World: Together at Ardhendu and Anubha were paired opposite Odia cinematographer through a series of tweets claim- Home’ to raise funds for relief op- each other while ‘Queen’ had Varsha Priyadar- Subhranshu Das won applause ing that he had never thought of erations for coronavirus. Marking sini and Jayjeet sharing the screen space for the for his outstanding work in the Odisha as a talent hub for the Odisha’s contribution to the noble Entertainment first time. Superstar Babusan’s film ‘Bidyaran’, recently released web film ‘Ram film industry. He changed Anketa cause, Lisa’s song was telecast for which was all set to release on Raja festival this Singh Charlie’. The film, starring Maharana’s name to Apsara Rani around 1 hour 35 minutes at the year, was postponed due to the pandemic. Sim- Divya Dutta and Kumud Mishra for this movie. virtual concert. The ‘Taarefan’ sing- ilarly, the release of ‘Dil Mora Manena’ starring in lead roles, is currently stream- Released on Disney+ Hotstar er shot this song at her grandpar- Swaraj Barik and Sivani was cancelled amid the ing on SonyLiv. on June 19, ‘Aarya’ was not only ent’s house in Bhubaneswar where Covid-19 crisis. On the other hand, the pandem- Odia filmmaker Susant Misra’s a web series debut for Sushmita she was residing during the nation- ic propelled Odia digital entertainment industry Hindi film titled ‘Josef - Born in Sen but also for two-time nationwide lockdown. into the limelight giving a platform to many bud- Grace’ won silver Remi award in al award winning sound designer Odisha-born Nihar Ranjan Sa- ding young talents. While music videos on You- the Christian Feature Film catego- Subhash Sahoo from Odisha. The mal added another feather in his Tube are leading the bandwagon, web-series ry at the 53rd WorldFest in Hous- series got huge appreciation from cap by winning the Filmfare Award and short films have also started gaining atten- ton. The movie also bagged the the audience. in Best Sound Design category tion. As we move into 2021, here is the recap of Best Set Design award Singer Sona Mohapatra’s for the movie ‘Uri: The Surgical

14 my city links | January 2021 January 2021 | my city links 15 cover | story cover | story www.mycitylinks.in 2020 2020 www.mycitylinks.in

Strike’. While 65th Amazon Film- havidyalaya and had retired as a fare Awards 2020 is slated to be professor from the institute. held in Guwahati (Assam) on Feb- Another stalwart of Odia film in- ruary 15 next year, the results of dustry Ajit Das breathed his last on technical and short film awards for September 13. He was 71. A for- this year were declared on Febru- mer head of department of drama ary 2. Nihar has earlier worked as at Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya, a sound designer for Bollywood Das was admitted to hospital af- hits ‘Padmavat’, ‘Bajirao Mastani’, ter testing positive for Covid-19. ‘PK’, ‘Pink’, ‘Three Idiots’ and ‘Tanu An alumnus of National School of Weds Manu Returns’. He had also Drama (NSD), Das acted in over won the National Award for Best 60 Odia films and produced many Audiography for on-location sound plays. His first film as a protagonist recording for ‘Madras Cafe’ (2013) was ‘Megha Mukti’. His major films at the 61st National Film Awards. include ‘Sankha Mahuri’, ‘Tunda It was a twin delight for Odisha Baaida’, ‘Balidan’, ‘Golamgiri’, ‘Ama as two movies by filmmakers of Ghara’, ‘Maa’, ‘Suna Chadhei’,‘Mu the State made it to the 344 eligi- Sapanara Saudagara’, ‘Nandi- ble feature films list for the 2019 ni I Love You’, ‘Dhana re Rakhi- awards announced by the Acad- bu Sapatha Mora’, ‘Jaga Hatare emy of Motion Picture Arts and Pagha’,‘Luchakali’ and ‘Mukhya Sciences. Besides ‘Josef – Born in Mantri’. He also received critical Grace’ by Susant Misra, ‘The Last acclaim for ‘Hakim Babu’ in the Color’ produced by Titlagarh-born early 80s. Jitendra Mishra made it to the race Deepa Sahoo aka the album for Oscars in the best picture cate- queen who was much loved by Odi- gory. ‘The Last Color’ starring Nee- as across the State, passed away na Gupta is the directorial debut of on July 27 at the age of 37. She celebrity chef Vikas Khanna and is was battling with cancer. Some of based on his bestselling book. The her hit album tracks include ‘Mast first look of the film was launched The year 2020 was cruel to the en- Mast’, ‘Tana Tana Akhi’, ‘Hai Hai To during the Cannes Film Festival in tire world, especially Ollywood. The Mali Phula Gajara’, ‘Krushna Chuda 2018. Odia film industry lost some of its Ranga Ra Nali Odhani’ and ‘Tora stalwarts this year. Lamba Beni’. The actress has also against Ollywood actor Pintu Nan- Legendary lyricist, playwright acted in a number of serials. She Anubhav Mohanty’s da and two of his associates for al- and screenwriter Bijay Mishra made her debut in Ollywood in the post pleading Salman legedly demanding sexual favours passed away on April 26. He was film ‘Nari Akhi Re Nian’. Khan to like his picture from a woman in return for being 83. Mishra was the recipient Famous Jatra (opera) artiste didn’t go down well cast in films. The FIR was -regis of several awards including Mahendra Das, popularly known with the netizens who tered after the woman lodged a Jaydev Award, State Sahitya as Viku Seth, passed away at his trolled the actor- complaint with Nayapalli Police. Academy Award (1968, residence in Choudwar on Septem- cum-politician. he also Pintu rubbished the allegations 1988), Konark Samman ber 12. He was 55. The Jollywood courted controversy as baseless and fabricated. (1994), Kendra Sangeet actor, who played negative char- when his wife Barsha Anubhav Mohanty’s post Natak Akademi Award acters throughout his career, ruled rjee tied the knot with Biju Janata Covid-19 lockdown. ing treatment at a private hospital filed a case of domestic pleading Salman Khan to like and the Odisha Sahitya the stage for over 30 years. He Dal (BJD) MLA Pritiranjan Gharai on Sonu Sood also launched an ini- where he breathed his last. Born violence against him his picture didn’t go down Akademi Award. shot to fame with his dialogue ‘Na March 11. The marriage ceremony tiative to help people rendered job- in 1951, Mohapatra studied film- at the SDJM court in well with the netizens who Veteran Ollywood Ta Tahale Mina, Bhala Nachila’ in was attended by the couple’s close less during the Covid-19 pandemic. making at FTII in Pune and made Cuttack. trolled the actor-cum-politi- Actor Bijay Mohanty the super hit play ‘Saguna Basichi relatives only. Under the initiative ‘Khud Kamaao his first short film, ‘Anti-Memoirs’, cian. passed away at the Dena Malei’. He had also essayed Popular stand-up comedian and Ghar Chalao’, the actor gifted in 1975. His first film ‘Sita Rati’ as Two Odias Abhishek Tripathy Anubhav also courted age of 70 in a private a negative character in Odia film content creator Biswa Kalyan Rath e-rickshaws to jobless people. Ear- a director in 1976 won him the Na- and Priyabrata Panigrahi were controversy when his wife hospital on July 20. ‘Jashoda’. got married to television and film lier, he had launched the ‘Pravasi tional Film Award for the Best Fea- praised for doing the sync sound Barsha Priyadarshini filed He was suffering Veteran stage artist and Olly- actor Sulagna Panigrahi on De- Rojgar’ app, a platform which pro- ture Film in Odia. Mohapatra won recording for one of the most talk- a case of domestic violence from a heart ailment. wood comedian Jimuta Patnaik cember 9. vided 50,000 job opportunities to eight consecutive National Awards ed-about web series ‘Mirzapur’. against him at the SDJM Mohanty had act- passed away at a private hospital Ollywood singer Diptirekha the unemployed. for his films ‘Nisiddha Swapna’, court in Cuttack. Anubhav ed in a number of in Bhubaneswar on November 22. Padhi got married to Soumya Ran- During the nationwide lock- ‘Majhi Pahacha’, ‘Klanta Aparanha’, Controversies had earlier filed a divorce Odia films including He was 62. A renowned television jan Satapathy of Khurda in a low down, both the actors had ar- ‘Niraba Jhada’, ‘Sita Rati’ and ‘Bh- Ram Gopal Varma was trolled on petition in a family court in ‘Naga Phasa’, ‘Sa- artist, Patnaik was recently seen in key affair on December 12. ranged transportation to ferry inna Samaya’. ‘Niraba Jhada’ has Twitter for his ignorance about Delhi. The matter doesn’t may Bada Balaban’, tv serial ‘Mahadevi’. This apart, he stranded migrant workers home. also won a National Award. Odisha which did not go down well seem like settling down any ‘Danda Balunga’, also acted in several teleserials like Real Life Heroes They also distributed food packets Mohapatra has also directed a with the Odias. Besides, his film time soon as both of them ‘Sahari Bagha’, ‘Katha Kahuthila Saribani’, ‘Maa’, In reel life, actors often get to play and other essential items among few Hindi films, including ‘Bits and ‘Thriller’ landed him in trouble on are bringing fresh allegations ‘Chaka Bhaunri’ ‘Sindura’ and ‘Laxmi Purana’. His the roles of messiah who rescue the needy. Pieces’ starring Nandita Das, Rahul the day of its release as Hindu Ekta against each other though and ‘Chaka Akhi role as Narada in ‘Laxmi Purana’ people in distress. But Ollywood Veteran Odia filmmaker Man- Bose and Dia Mirza. He received Bahini lodged a complaint with Na- their cases are pending in var- Sabu Dekhuchi’. was highly appreciated. actor Sabyasachi Mishra and Bol- mohan Mohapatra died at a hos- the Best Director Award for Odia barangpur Police alleging that the ious courts in Delhi and Cuttack. He had joined lywood star Sonu Sood turned out pital in Bhubhaneswar on January film ‘Bhija Matira Swarga’. The vet- trailer of the movie hurt religious the drama de- Stars Who Walked Down to be heroes in real life by turning 13 following prolonged illness. He eran filmmaker had also directed sentiments. Celebrities Who Bid Us partment of the The Aisle This Year Good Samaritans for thousands was 69. Winner of several National documentaries — Voices of Silence Police lodged a complaint Goodbye in 2020 Utkal Sangeet Ma- Ollywood actress Jhilik Bhattacha- of people stranded due to the Awards, Mohapatra was undergo- and Konrak: The Sun Temple. 

16 my city links | January 2021 January 2021 | my city links 17 city | zen city | zen www.mycitylinks.in www.mycitylinks.in

My City Links catches up with change happened. I was working Vrushali Pradhan, founder of Bizydale for Mercedes Benz when I met my Carving A Niche husband Satyajit Pradhan who Technology, based out of Bengaluru, was all set to start a new venture in to know more about her journey. product, technology and operation. Married to an Odia, Vrushali plans to I shared my ideas with him which For Herself In The open an office branch in Odisha soon he instantly liked. Then we both joined hands to start the project and I got a chance to nurture my entrepreneurial dream. Digital Landscape By Sheela Pattanayak Tell us something about your product and how it is different nce less trodden, the long road to women from others? empowerment now has more travellers. Wom- Bizydale Nets is a new-age tech en have made incredible advances in various powerhouse and the best reach for fields and disrupted the status quo with hard digital transformation. Our prod- work, strong determination and innovative ucts in augmented reality, virtual ideas.O One such woman is entrepreneur Vrushali Pradhan, found- reality with a blend of artificial in- er of Bizydale Technology, that operates in the field of digital trans- telligence (AI) are designed to make formation. businesses stand unique and have Married to an Odia, Vrsuhali, despite facing several challenges, has a deeper penetration in the market. moved ahead towards her goal and created her own identity with un- bridled enthusiasm. Although her company headquarters is based out of Being a successful female entre- Bengaluru, she is planning to have a branch in Odisha very soon. preneur, what is your vision for My City Links catches up with the young entrepreneur to know about other women in the field? her successful journey. If you see our company, the ratio of men to women stands at 60:40. Be- How and where did it all start? ing a woman, I personally give pri- I was born in a small town of Maharashtra called Teosa. I completed my schooling there and for intermediate and grad- uation, I went to Amaravati. I was always a self-de- Vrushali Pradhan and Satyajeet Pradhan termined, passionate and open-minded person. I wanted to do things that were considered difficult for girls hailing from small towns. I help us to march towards success. was average in studies but adept I also believe in self-confidence, in striking conversations and dedication and passion towards convincing people. This led your job and work. me to pursue my career as a sales professional. ority to girls and feel they are very What is your message to aspir- sincere in their work. But we never ing women entrepreneurs? From sales profes- discriminate on the basis of gender; A woman should believe in her sional to an entre- we give equal opportunity to both. strength and power in order to preneur, how did the In future, we are going to establish achieve excellence. In most cases, shift happen? a branch office here in Odisha and women do not have any idea about I started my career as there are plans to create more op- their true abilities and hence lack an automotive sales portunities for Odia girls. self-confidence. This holds them professional. I had back both in their professional and more than a decade What are the major challenges personal life. So women should first of experience in ser- you faced during your journey as believe in themselves. vice, sales and custom- an entrepreneur? er support when the Being a woman in a male-dom- Apart from being an entrepre- inated sector, I had to make a neur, you are also a successful breakthrough in order to establish a wife and daughter-in-law. How brand name and thrive in the tech- do you manage both? nology industry. Besides, I faced It is actually a tough job to juggle financial and time management is- between both. But in my case, I Being a woman in a male- sues as I and my husband Satyajit was able to manage it due to the dominated sector, I had to left our lucrative jobs to establish support of my husband, in-laws make a breakthrough in order the start-up. However, we man- and my professional team. This to establish a brand name aged to overcome the challenges apart, since I am focused towards and thrive in the technology and reach our goal. my work, I make a work schedule industry. Besides, I faced every day and to manage time. I al- financial and time management What are the keys to success? ways try to finish the work on the issues I believe in the 3P formula, that is same day and do not keep it pend- persistence, perseverance and pa- ing for the next day. This is how I Vrushali Pradhan tience. These three elements can manage my daily routine.  founder, Bizydale Technology 18 my city links | January 2021 January 2021 | my city links 19 riendship is a bond that nurtures every healthy rela- tionship. A bond, that helps you grow in every way and Fmakes you better each day. If you choose wisely, it’s a treat, or else it can leave an unpleas- ant aftertaste. The consumers who believe in the promise of RUCHI goodness provided by RUCHI, are those that believe in the Your Friend For Life core values of friendship. RUCHI has been a constant friend for products that will keep our 45 years to its customers and bond stronger. treasured the well-being of its RUCHI has always tried to community with an excellent bring traditional Odia and Indi- product range prepared with an tastes into every home. At a traditions of purity and good time when we are getting bus- taste. ier with our lives, sometimes we RUCHI explores its friendship forget to take care of ourselves with you as the friend in our life but RUCHI has made sure that for the last 45 years, who en- you stay healthy by providing riches our life with goodness of quality products. RUCHI pro- products that are pure to the vides every taste that our hearts last grain. It’s an invitation for all and souls crave for. to embrace RUCHI as a During this time of the pan- friend for health forever. demic, we must stay together RUCHI has more than for everyone and not lose faith. 3 million friends across 7 Whether cooking together countries. With a prod- or celebrating life or staying uct portfolio that ranges healthy or having fun with from spices to frozen and friends, ready to eat food, from RUCHI is always by your side ready to cook instant to enhance your taste. RU- mixes to packaged or- CHI wishes you a happy and ganic food, it is the pride healthy festive season. Happy of our friends’ kitchens New Year from our family to and pantries as it fulfills yours! every need to satisfy the hunger pangs. RUCHI believes that one must be self-suf- ficient in the truest sense and its way of making it possible is by providing healthy, hygienic and quality food to everyone. RUCHI has always dreamt big and to honour its commitment to your friendship it has set up a new state-of-the-art integrated plant at Ramdaspur, Cuttack, with an investment of over Rs 100 crore and a manufacturing capacity of more than 300

Advertorial/ my city links/ www.mycitylinks.in city | health city | health www.mycitylinks.in www.mycitylinks.in

Have A By Debamitra Mishra

t’s a misconception that profuse sweating leads to more fat loss and fitness. This stops many people from working out in winters. “This mindset needs to be changed. Sweating is not an indicator of a good workout or fat loss,” as- Healthy Iserts Bhubaneswar-based fitness enthusiast and coach, Priyanka Singhdeo. “Sweat is a physiological reaction of our body to keep the temperature at an optimum level of 98.6°C. It’s just water with some minerals; there is no fat in the chemical composition,” she clarifies. Winter, At the same time, Priyanka adds, it’s vital to keep our body hydrated by drinking plenty of water. “And since it Here’s How is winter, we can also try sipping something lukewarm, it could be green tea, soup or just some water with a little lemon in it. This is vital to maintain a fluid balance in our In winter, not only the skin, body,” she adds. but our entire body requires Explaining the science behind it, she says, “Our kid- extra nourishment and care. neys function in a reverse osmosis process where they have to be consistently wetter than that of the blood. And drinking lots of water, Otherwise, they won’t do any filtration job and our blood regular workouts and proper will be left impure, leading to a lot of health issues. So diet are the three simple just imagine how much important water is in our life.” mantras to keep our health She advises that a daily intake of 4-5 litres is the rec- system up and running ommended amount. “At times though, it’s difficult to maintain this cycle. But if we start consciously having during the cold days water, our body will adjust in a week or two. It could then become a habit from there,” she adds. Stay In Shape Talking about habits, we can’t deny that regular workout feels like a painful task in winter and lazily curled up under a warm blanket or quilt is so much more prefer- able. But that is exactly one must not give indulgence to, warns Priyanka. “As the winter cold sets in, you might find your workout routine disrupted by chilly winds or icy conditions. Though it’s more tempting to stay home and curl up under a blanket, you need to keep moving all winter long,” she says, adding, “It will it help you stay in shape and be better prepared for the forthcoming spring.” And there are health benefits too. “Regular -work outs can help fend off cold and flu, burn off that holiday weight and keep you happy and upbeat even when you miss the sunshine.” For the more enthusiastic who miss out on going to gyms due to the cold weather, she recommends full body workout at home like climbing stairs, jumping jacks,

22 my city links | January 2021 January 2021 | my city links 23 city | health www.mycitylinks.in

Eat small portions. Use a smaller plate, weigh portions on a scale, or check then nutrition facts label for details about serving sizes

Priyanka Singhdeo Fitness coach/enthusiast mountain climbers, burpees,jumping rope, high knees, inch worms, push-ups, pull-ups, planks, squats, chair dips, lunges, calf raises and even Yoga. For others, she prescribes gardening, going for regular walks, playing a game, starting a dance club with friends, or even walking to the grocery store or work or just playing around with kids. “The important thing is try to hit at least 10,000 steps daily,” she says.

Mind Your Food Exercise is alright, but food choices? what about Priyanka re- the craving plies, “Opt for for junk food some less oily during winter? stuff. In fact, half And the sugary of your plate should delights during the be made of fruits and festive season to boot. veggies. Winter is a sea- Priyanka admits that eating hab- son of vegetables and fruits, so we its become irregular during winter. must take an advantage of that. “During this season, people often Besides, try to reach out to more crave for sugary and fatty foods. protein rich food as Indian diets are All those crisp ‘pakodas’ along with mostly carb dominant. So we al- hot cups of tea become a daily ways have to make an extra effort affair. And winter being a festive to get a good protein sources. season and time for cele- “Eat small portions. Use bration, we often keep a smaller plate, weigh pushing our goals to eat portions on healthy.” a scale, or After all, she quips, check then people hardly realize that nutrition staying fit isn’t just a goal, facts but a lifestyle. “So it label for becomes even more details about important for us to serving sizes,” Priyanka Singhdeo (Fitness coach/enthusiast) be extra conscious she adds. of not hogging upon The fitness -en matters, be it a cookie or a bite of that good rest is an essential addi- anything that thusiast says that anything. They all add up to the tion to these healthy habits. “Sleep comes in front are many ways calories that we consume and the well for at least 7-8 hours. If, how- of us, but rath- to experiment entire fat loss or weight loss pro- ever, you are unable to get in that er try to make with food, but it’s cess is based upon just one formu- much of sleep due to your work healthy choic- equally important la: calorie in lesser than calorie out.” schedule, try to catch some power es.” to be conscious of naps. This is because feeling rested And what what we are putting in our Rest & Sleep and de-stressed help a lot in main- are the healthy mouth. “Every little thing Priyanka rounds off by advising taining a good healthy life.” 

24 my city links | January 2021 city | interactive city | interactive www.mycitylinks.in www.mycitylinks.in

plague that was raging in the city nessed one of the worst pandemics In Indian myths and of a civilized human society have of Florence. Despite being a fic- to affect mankind. Dubbed as the religion, the God Rudra fallen apart. tional work, Bocaccio dwells on the Spanish influenza, it claimed over has been described in In Spanish Lady, George Kohn havoc wrought by the Black Death 20 million lives, and infected more the Atharva Veda as narrates, “It (the Spanish flu) struck in Florence and the neighbouring than 500 million people across the causing plagues and military bases throughout Europe, Penning The regions and the chaotic scenes that world. pestilences in a manner putting tens of thousands of British, emerged. The Spanish flu has been the similar to that of the French, German, and other soldiers Bocaccio’s narrative is shocking, subject of Katherine Anne Por- Greek Apollo out of action. The British called it as he goes to great lengths to de- ter’s work. Pale Horse, Pale Rid- ‘Flanders grippe’, and the Germans scribe the apathy and callousness er is apocalyptic in its vision as named it ‘Blitz Katarrh’. In Paris of the people during the outbreak. Katherine Anne Porter narrates and in French seaports like Brest, At the same time, the outbreak the nature of human relationships Rider doesn’t just end on a note of death rates from the sickness be- Pandemics is moving in its description of the during the time of pandemic. The despair and anguish, it ends on a gan to mount ominously in 1918, sufferings of the people. The na- story revolves around Miranda, a note of sheer hopelessness, where and at the same time acute respi- Since prehistoric times, ture of the personal losses suf- newspaper woman who falls in the entire humanity is confront- ratory infections suddenly began to man has been afflicted fered by Petrarch was reflected in love with a soldier, Adam. As the ed by a world on the verge of the be noticed at military installations by diseases, plagues and his writings. story progresses, Miranda is taken apocalypse. in the United States. By October pestilences. History has Daniel Defoe was also profound- ill with the Spanish Flu. Fortunate- What Porter has envisioned, Em- 1918, some U.S. Army camps were ly affected by the Great Plague of ly, she recovers, but is distraught to ily St. John Mandel has taken it fur- reporting a death every hour, and witnessed numerous London that broke out in the year find that Adam has died of the dis- ther in her novel, Station Eleven. She Britain then was counting 2,000 outbreaks that laid waste 1665 AD. Defoe’s A Journal of the ease. Porter’s novella documents presents a post-apocalyptic world, deaths per week, with London at to many a civilization Plague Year is a semi-fictional work the extreme sense of anxiety and ravaged and destroyed by “Geor- about 300 deaths per week. Coun- and great empires. that describes the experiences of a uncertainty that accompanied the gia Flu”. She addresses some of the try after country felt the ravages of Here’s a peep at how man who had witnessed the Great outbreaks. key issues that emerged in the soci- the disease…”  Plague of London. Defoe goes into She writes, “No more war, no ety during the outbreaks. She does these darkest periods in great details to describe the events more plague, only the dazed silence not shy away from representing the human history made their in a chronological and accurate that follows the ceasing of the religious cults and fanaticism that way into the pages of manner. Likewise, Samuel Pepys heavy guns; noiseless houses with societies witnessed. Mandel pres- Sakti Sekhar Dash, Research literature also witnessed the Great Plague of shades drawn, empty streets, the ents a terrifying post-apocalyptic Scholar at Dept. Of English, London, and he recorded the disas- dead cold light of tomorrow. Now world, in which the fabric of human Ravenshaw University ter in his diary. there would be time for everything.” civilization has disintegrated. It is a In 20th century, the world wit- The novella Pale Horse, Pale chaotic world, where the trappings

By Sakti Sekhar Dash and then assumes the characteris- animals. played an integral role in the lives of tics of an epidemic, when it starts Likewise, the Book of Psalms also the Athenians, Thucydides’ work is claiming the lives of humans. narrates the causation of plagues unaffected by religious overtones. MASTER WEAVERS Sophocles is another notable lit- and pestilences by the arrows or He tries to provide a rational and ime and again, history erary figure who narrated an - out darts sent by God. The 91st Psalm logical description of the Athenian NATIONAL AWARD has witnessed devas- break in his works. In Oedipus Rex, composed by Moses, describes the plague, without letting religious tating outbreaks that the city of Thebes is sorely afflicted manner in which the Lord sends and superstitious beliefs affect his SPECIAL BOMKAI have claimed millions of by a plague. In this Greek trage- the plagues among the people. It better judgement. VEG DYE lives and changed the dy, the king of Thebes, Oedipus, is is eerily similar to the Homeric and Perhaps, no disaster or calami- Tcourse of human civilisations. made the scapegoat. The plague is Vedic descriptions. ty has affected human society, art IKKAT WEAVE In classical antiquity, the com- ascribed to his sinful conduct and On the other hand, Athenian gen- and literature as much as the Black mon belief prevailed that diseases he is exiled from the land to suppli- eral and historian Thucydides took Death. It had a traumatic effect and pestilences were caused by cate the gods. a critical and objective approach on Europe, and this was reflected 0

the wrath of the gods. In Greece, In Indian myths and religion, the in his first-hand documentation of in the works of Bocaccio, Petrarch 2

0 BHUBANESWAR 2 the causes were ascribed to Apollo, God Rudra has been described the plague that broke out in Athens and Chaucer, the foremost literary / i n i Market Building, Ph: 0674 2532140 who shot arrows or darts among in the Atharva Veda as causing sometime around 411 BC. figures of the day. h s r

the people to cause the illness. plagues and pestilences in a man- His work, History of the Pelopon- Bocaccio’s The Decameron re- a Airport, Ph : 0674 2596804 d a

In Homer’s The Iliad, Apollo sends ner similar to that of the Greek nesian War strives to provide a revolves consists of 100 stories nar- y Sachibalaya Marg, Ph : 0674 2396036 i r p a pestilence among the Greek host Apollo. The Atharva Veda contains alistic portrayal of the situation and rated by seven young ladies and / e

d PURI

fighting against Troy by shooting the invocations, which describes circumstances prevailing in Athens, three young men. They have tak- u l e arrows carrying the plague. It’s de- the manner in which the God Rudra when the plague broke out. Despite en refuge in a secluded villa in the r VIP Road | Ph : 06752 229470 p scribed as first affecting animals causes plagues among men and belonging to a period when religion countryside, in a bid to escape the

26 my city links | January 2021 January 2021 | my city links 27 transit | lounge transit | lounge www.mycitylinks.in www.mycitylinks.in

felt that a nomad like me finally got fanbase, the singersaid, "I mostly digital shift and Ghazal is no ex- By Debamitra Mishra a destination.” travel to USA for music tours. What ception. "Social media is playing a "When I appearedin‘Sa Re Ga pleases me the most is the love of crucial role when it comes to glo- Ma Pa’, people started to find an theaudience towards Ghazal and balisingthe art form and getting Ghazal Is My father is my first Guru. His interest in Ghazals. But there were their understanding of the music? connected with fans. Earlier, it was hazal will continue teachings and principles have not many singers who dabbled in I believe music is one universal a difficult task,but now it's just a to win hearts as long made me what I am today. He this genre. People wanted to listen language.It binds all including the click away. You get to explore a lot as poetry and love ex- Eternal As polished me like a goldsmith to more Ghazal singers. This genre Indian audience though it has a on virtual platform. Personally, so- ist, feels Ranjeet Ra- had a particular kind of audience different attachment because of cial media has empowered me a jwada. For Ranjeet, a Ranjeet Rajwada and hence, I was appreciated," he patriotism.” lotand YouTube has been a great Ghazal singer Grenowned Ghazal singer, this form informed. Ranjeet further informs that one blessing. I am using this platform of poetic expression is eternal as Love, Says In 2016, Forbes India fea- and a half years back, he was on to bring quality singing to the au- love. In an exclusive interview with tured Ranjeet in '30 under a tour to Poland. “Everyone in dience. The evolution from CDs My City Links during his recent vis- talent. I feel fortunate that I was 30'. "I was aloof of the my audience wasfrom Po- to YouTube has been a long way. it to Odisha, the ‘Prince of Ghazal’ able to contribute to promotion of fact that Forbes was land and none from India. To I think this pandemic has been a speaks about his tryst with this an- Ranjeet Ghazal at the global level," he said. such a huge brand until my surprise, all of them were blessing in disguise for singers like cient form of poetry and his musical Shedding light about reality the day it featured me. listening to my songs so me." Ranjeet opined. journey. shows, Ranjeet said, "It depends When I researched about keenly. This impressed me In the era of remakes and remixes, Ranjeet’s musical sojourn began Rajwada on which reality show an artiste it, I realised that it was a very much," he said. the worth of original creations is dis- at the age of 5. He received his ini- is participating in. There are many great achievement. I lat- The Covid-19 appearing. The singersaid, "Fusion is tial training from his father Mahesh shows that have given recognition er came to know that pandemic has where we bring 3-4 things together Rajwada who is also a Ghazal to some great talents. Every show one of the judges brought a to create something new and beau- singer. “My father is my first Guru. In an exclusive conversation has a different format. ‘Sa Re Ga in ‘Sa Re Ga Ma tiful without losing the originality. His teachings and principles have with My City Links, the ‘Prince of Ma Pa’ became the first reality Pa’, Durga Jasraj But it's pointless if the output is not made me what I am today. He pol- Ghazal’ spoke about his musical show to support Ghazal on a live had recommended than what is expected." ished me like a goldsmith. Mine is sojourn and beyond platform that featured me. I was my name to Forbes About criticism, Ranjeet believes a family of artistes. The environ- skeptical about the response until India," Ranjeet in- that an artiste should always ment in I which I grew up has al- I performed 'Chupke Chupke'. This formed. pick up good things ways worshipped music, especially performance brought me a world- Speaking about his from criticism to Ghazal. Since I was familiar with wide recognition. Social media was musical tours and learn something new. the stage and live performanc- renditions of Ghazal when I was a The young Ghazal maestro has from Pt Ajay Chakravarty. not that popular then and I was get- "Negativity is every- es from my childhood, I never felt kid and this probably reflected in also won the best singer award Ranjeet shot into fame through ting wishes only through mails. My where, so an artiste nervous while singing in front of a my singing when I grew up,” said from none other than the legend- singing reality show ‘Sa Re Ga Ma love for Ghazals was genuine and should not get into crowd. Most importantly, I got the Ranjeet, a recipient of President ary musician AR Rahman. Besides, Pa’. "After ‘Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’, peo- when I was given the title 'Prince it," he signed off.  opportunity to listen to beautiful Award in 2005. he has received radio's best award ple started to identify me and my of Ghazal',I was overwhelmed and Prince of Ghazal’ Ranjeet Rajwada

28 my city links | January 2021 January 2021 | my city links 29 fashion | & lifestyle fashion | & lifestyle www.mycitylinks.in www.mycitylinks.in Bohemian Punk Bohemian Casual

baneswar-based fashion designer, says that in the wintry

Classic season, everyone should wear something that makes them feel cosy and trendy at the same time. She gives us two outfit ideas to pull off this winter - "pullovers over mini-skirt with stockings and Casual sneakers for footwear and formal pants with crop tops, paired with a plain denim jacket and boots." shirts and crop Now that you're getting Classic tops. Final- out of your house and Keeping it prime and perfect ly, put on a pyjamas after so long, If you are looking for something straight pant and Casual more classic, pull out any turtle ankle-high boots or you will want to wear neck top or sweater from your shoes. outfits that make you wardrobe and wear a coat or a Jaya Jaysudha, an look like you and help double-breasted blazer over it. For undergraduate student you combat the chilly the pants, choose skinny warmers, from Bhubaneswar, says, " days at the same time and for the shoes, pick block heel I have always loved to wear loafers or heeled boots. Wrap a something that's comfortable and classic plain scarf to complement stylish, and I like to experiment with

The Trendiest Classic the outfit. my clothes before going anywhere. By Priyanka During winters, I try to use my old Priyadarshini Street style jackets and sweaters to build an Keeping it contemporary and outfit. I have tried pairing my old comfy front open knit sweater on a plain Streetstyle is the best shirt. I buttoned it at the end and inter is volumes of your choice of style. My to pick if you are opting let the shirt's collar out and cuffs Winter around the City Links has listed the trendiest for a ‘regular’ look. So, loose. I paired it up with old jeans corner, and clothing pieces to experiment with if you are into street- and boots, and surprisingly it all Outfit so is the time this winter. All for a fashionable wear, which is a com- came together." to re-em- winter! bination of both chic Wbrace the fashionista in you. We and casual elements, Punk style have arrived at that time of 2020, Casual you can select from Keeping it bold and beautiful where we are adjusting to the 'new Keeping it free and easy. multiple options. If your style is more punk or grun- normal' and meeting our colleagues, If you are going for a laid back or Pair up, front open ge, a leather jacket is a forever friends, and family outside the virtual casual look this winter, pick a den- sweaters or over- trend for you. You can go for over- Ideas space. And now that you're getting im jacket or a puffer jacket and pair sized cable-knit sized bombers too. Tights of dif- out of your house and pyjamas after it up with leggings, and cling on cropped sweaters ferent types under ripped jeans, To Experiment so long, you will want to wear out- to your comfortable hi-top sneak- with cropped frayed shorts, and skirts are a rage fits that make you look like you and ers. Over-sized pullovers tucked in jeans and heeled boots right now when it comes to help you combat the chilly days at the jeans are another way to go and if you prefer street casual. punk style. Now add a crop same time. are so in trend. Finally, add the right Or, you can go for the clas- top and high and heavy boots With! Nothing can make you feel more beanie to complete the outfit. sic long duster or a coat and Street to the mix, and there, you got an like you than an outfit that speaks Lopamudra Beuria, a Bhu- layer it up underneath, with outfit.

30 my city links | January 2021 January 2021 | my city links 31 fashion | & lifestyle logic is recognised by the Government of www.mycitylinks.in Odisha as a start-up involved in healthcare and aesthetic medicines, research and development and manufacturing of related products. It already has two patents and is on the verge of having a few more. With an eye on innovation, Los Jovenes Clinilogic strongly believes in de- veloping advanced niche skin and home care products. In October 2020 they launched their first Vitamin C/ hyaluronic acid based skin serum called iSTEM. Dr Lita foresees a future where skincare products that are effective with minimal side effects and are technologically driven are available to everyone. At Los Jovenes Clinilogic, they are working on intelligent technology driven phyto dermaceuticals for skincare. This innovative start-up uses nanotechnology and focuses on exploring Los Jovenes Clinilogic exotic plant sources to produce innovative and niche skincare products.

Chic Los Jovenes Clinilogic Pvt. Ltd. is support- Punk Sporty And The Magic Of Advanced ed and funded by BIRAC’s Biotechnology Ignition Grant and is incubating at KIIT-TBI to develop an iconic product for skin hyper- is chic, you can go for on a coat and a pair of heels." about being boho. Add them to Dermaceuticals pigmentation treatment. This ignition grant plain ripped your outfit made out of straight denim with Vintage denim and a plain top or knitted hen it comes to the art of liv- a loose Keeping it alluring and ageless sweater. You can also achieve the ing a healthy life, Los Jovenes white If you love vintage fashion, grab bohemian look with an over-sized Clinilogic Pvt. Ltd. is one of tank a pleated skirt or a gored skirt, waist-length boho printed jacket the pioneers and beacons top pair it up with a full sleeve body on your favourite tent dress. Add Win the domain of healthy skin, hair and fit sweater and throw in a state- a statement purse and boots to wellness. The clinic was founded by Dr Lita ment belt or a fitted blazer to the outfit. Mohapatra on December 2, 2018 and the complete the look. If you want to company was formed in June 2019. Los Vintage keep it simple this winter, pair a Sporty Jovenes Clinilogic draws expertise of doc- bishop sleeve crop knit sweater Keeping it jaunty and trendy Skin and Hair Treatment with straight jeans and put on Finally, if athleisure outfits work tors and experts which includes Aesthetic/ Shop 3 first floor, Galaxy Mall sneakers. best for you, then pick a short- Cosmetic Dermatologists, Endo- Opposite mani Tribhuvam Appartment Chic cropped bomber jacket or a puffer crinologists, General Medicine Ragunathpur, Patia, Bhubaneswar, through novel technologies and Keeping it spiffy and sharp Bohemian or a ski jacket, and add it to your Practitioners, Pediatricians and Odisha 751024 If you want to beat the cold, Keeping it hip and happening sports outwear and close the deal many more to cater to all your pioneering research work. The Los Jovenes Therapeutica skin, looking effortlessly chic and Capes and artsy ponchos are the with running sneakers. health and wellness needs . is helping them to refine their proof-of-con- debonair, animal, or check trends to follow if your style is all Winter need not be more about hair and body care treatments Dr Lita Mohapatra is a fellow cept studies and future product devel- print cardigans over a crop or saving yourself from cold than include Platelet Rich Plasma in Aesthetic Medicine and opment. The work done at Los Jovenes tank top paired with skinny dressing up for the season. There's Therapy (PRP), Mesotherapy, Cosmetic Dermatology who is a breakthrough in the field of Aesthetic jeans and boots is the look for a lot to choose from if you are into Melanin Knockout Therapy, has made her presence felt in Medicine and treatment which is based on you. This outfit is just the right fashionable winter outfits. Lopa- Hydratherapy, Vitamin the skin and hair treatment stem-cell dermaceutical and therapeutic amount of style and comfy put mudra Beuria says that one can put Enriched Therapy, Radio together. If you want to make modish pieces together to create a space with a meteoric rise medicines. Dr Lita was awarded the ‘Times Frequency Therapy, a statement with your attire look that fits, and people who are in a short span of time. She Health Icon Award’ in July 2019, ‘Excellence Dermal Rejuvenation that sets perfectly for the into winter fashion should experi- has honed her skills through as Doctor in Aesthetic Medicine Award’ in Therapy, Oxygen Rich entire day, jackets paired ment with colours, both deep and medical practice in India December 2019 and ‘Top Inspiring Women Therapy, Skin Serum with high waist leather neutral shades. She says that one and Australia after graduat- Entrepreneur Award’ In 2019 among others. pants is the trend for you. can also take up shawls or stoles Cocktail Therapy, Stem ing from Maharaja Krushna With its unique range of products and Throw in some accessories and add them in a creative way Cell Therapy for skin Chandra Gajapati Medical services Los Jovenes is poised to expand and pick sock boots or high to their outfit. and hair and many College (MKCG). She is a dou- into the south east Asian market in the heeled booties to go with it. Pick something that saves more such treatments ble Masters holder in medicine next few years. With a product range that Swoyamprava Puhan, you from the bleak weather, but that will make you from the University of Sydney, is effective, pocket friendly and superior in a fashion design stu- also make sure that you don't look and feel better dent from Bhubaneswar, get smothered by too many lay- Australia and a recipient of the quality, Dr Lita’s venture is about to steer and give a new boost says, "Check print coats ers. Pick from the trendiest pieces Full Bright Scholarship from the the wellness industry on a path that is of confidence to your and over-sized knit of the season and flaunt your style. University of Newcastle, Australia. focussed on the well being of its custom-

Chic personality. sweaters in the shade But make sure you takeprecautions Los Jovenes Clinilogic is the ers. They are looking to strengthen their Los Jovenes Clini- of nude are here to when you walk out the door this result of Dr Lita’s dream of having product portfolio with a plethora of new stay. You can try dif- and winter, and no matter what you a multi-clinilogic centre that can dr. lita mohapatra products that will provide them access to

ferent looks with win- then Sporty wear, don't leave your mask be- solve all your skin and hair needs Founder of Los Jovenes global markets. ter wear. If your style put hind.  Clinilogic Pvt. Ltd.

32 my city links | January 2021 Advertorial/ my city links/ www.mycitylinks.in city | sports city | sports www.mycitylinks.in www.mycitylinks.in

see a ‘before’ and ‘after’ for their physical parameters, giving her/ him an accurate understanding of progress. In addition, the technology also provides real-time visual feedback during training through which correct form and movement is registered faster by the body. Through this, athletes receive physical self-awareness, allowing them to be more receptive to training, avoid injuries better and leverage their technique/ skills consistently. Coach empowerment sessions are also conducted regularly at the ABTP centre to ensure that the larger ecosystem is also aware of the impact that sport science can have on athletes. Since its inauguration, several budding athletes from Odisha like Hari Behera, AnshikaRoutray, Aakash Mishra and Rutuparna Panda have trained at the ABTP centre. Hari was looking to recover as soon as possible after a surgery for a labral tear. With proper rehabilitation protocols and technology intervention, he won gold in Shot Put at the Reliance Foundation Tournament earlier this year. Similarly, Anshika, daughter of former Odia track and field athlete Anuradha Biswal, has been regularly training at the ABTP centre. To improve her stability, regular train- Where Sport Meets Science ing has been done on the ProKin. Her parameters have dramatically Abhinav Bindra Targeting Performance Centre provides state-of-the-art improved and she has been able to facilities for athletes of all disciplines to improve their performance. Chief perform at a consistently high level. She recently won gold at the na- tween -200 and -300°F. The athlete paedic rehabilitation. The centre’s Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the centre on February 18, 2019 One of the latest tional meet in Raipur. technologies that the will have to stay in the ultra-low physiotherapists can also help Emerging young footballer ABTP has introduced temperature air for between two identify the root cause of pain and Aakash is a part of the U-19 Indian to the sporting and four minutes. help correct it permanently. By Debi Prasad Sahu Patnaik inaugurated the centre on athletes. ABTP provides various services football team that won the recent fraternity in the State Sporting bodies such as Norwich Recently, the team at ABTP February 18, 2019 and since then, Sports science is an umbrella and facilities that an athlete can SAFF U-18 Championships. In just is cryotherapy which City FC and Miami FC, as well as was delighted to welcome Indian it has helped enhance the abili- term used for a multi-disciplinary use to enhance their performance under two months (25 Sessions) at can be delivered to famous athletes like Cristiano Ron- javelin thrower and Asian Games ties and improve performances of approach towards understanding or fasten their recovery. These ABTP centre, he was able to recov- just one area of the aldo and LeBron James have used gold medalist Neeraj Chopra and n the last few years, Odisha many athletes of national and in- sports and sportspersons. It in- services are for high performance er from an ankle ligament injury. body. Besides, one can cryotherapy with successful effect acquaint him with the globally ac- has increasingly made its pres- ternational repute not only in Odis- cludes topics that study how the physical training and include Per- Rutuparna is one of the most opt for a whole-body over time. One can get benefits credited training and performance ence felt in the world of sports ha but also the country. The centre body and mind of an athlete or a formance Enhancement, Injury promising athletes from the Odis- cryotherapy from just one session of cryother- enhancement technology at the by investing not only in groom- is a joint collaboration of Rungta sportsperson works during events Management/Prevention and Re- ha ecosystem, who has regularly apy, but it’s most effective when centre. Neeraj was delighted about ing new talents but also devel- Mines and Abhinav Futuristic and and training. Talking about the fa- covery using technology that has trained at the centre, working on used regularly. Some of the bene- the facilities available at ABTP and Ioping infrastructure of international is equipped to provide testing and cility’s role in improving an athlete’s never been used in India before. strength/conditioning and her over- number of ways, including through fits are reduction in inflammation, said, “I am glad to undergo my standards that will give athletes a training facilities in sports physiolo- performance, Centre Head of ABTP Each of these services can be per- all endurance. This has significant- ice packs, ice massage, coolant enhancement in recovery from in- training sessions at the Abhinav technological boost. The Kalinga gy, biomechanics and recovery and Bhubaneswar Dr Pradeep Pillay formed by a team of expert phys- ly helped her improve her training. sprays, ice baths, and even through juries, reduction of exercise-induced Bindra Targeting Performance Fa- Stadium Sports Complex has been rehabilitation. said, “Based on rigorous research iotherapists, sports scientists and Recently, she was felicitated as probes administered into tissue. soreness and improvement of mood cility in Odisha. This was the first revamped into a multipurpose facil- The ABTP centre has gone a long protocols, sports science helps in strength/conditioning coaches in an ‘Young Achiever of the Year’ by In- The theory for whole-body cryo- as well as reduction of anxiety. time I experienced cryotherapy and ity and has become the hub of all way in creating a conducive sport- achieving high performance goals accountable and data-driven fash- dian Sport Honour Awards. therapy (WBC) involves immersing The ABTP centre was set up found it exceptionally relaxing.” sporting activities in the State. ing environment in Bhubaneswar of individual athletes and teams. ion, Dr Pillay informed. One of the latest technologies the body in extremely cold air for specifically to cater to the athletes Neeraj further said he would like One of the unique features of the with its highly qualified team of The study of sports science tradi- These same technologies have that the ABTP has introduced to several minutes which has a num- of the State. However, in order to to thank Odisha government and facility is the Abhinav Bindra Tar- sports scientists and physios. It is tionally incorporates areas of Exer- been used by global powerhouse the sporting fraternity in the State ber of health benefits. The individu- remain sustainable, services have the ABTP team for instilling such geting Performance (ABTP) Centre. only the fifth of its kind in the coun- cise Physiology, Sport Psychology, soccer clubs such as AC Milan, is cryotherapy which can be deliv- al will stand in an enclosed chamber been opened to the larger public high-tech training and rehab solu- The ABTPCentre provides state- try after Pune, Mohali, Delhi and Nutrition and other facets to under- Juventus, Real Madrid and other ered to just one area of the body. or a small enclosure that surrounds at a subsidised price. The services tions in the Indian sporting ecosys- of-the-art facilities for athletes of Bengaluru. My City Links takes a stand how an athlete can perform sporting bodies across the world. Besides, one can opt for a whole- their body but has an opening for include physiotherapy with access tem. He hoped that this will help all disciplines to improve their per- look inside the centre and how it efficiently. This is precisely where The assessment-training-assess- body cryotherapy. Localised cryo- their head at the top. The tempera- to same technology, specialisation him and his team excel at the Tokyo formance. Chief Minister Naveen is shaping the present and future ABTP comes into play.” ment format allows an athlete to therapy can be administered in a ture in the enclosure will drop to be- in pain management and ortho- Olympics. 

34 my city links | January 2021 January 2021 | my city links 35 city | sports city | sports www.mycitylinks.in www.mycitylinks.in

Since 2015, when Swasti SPORTSPERSON OF THE MONTH burst into the cycling scene, she has been grabbing everyone’s attention with her superb Swasti Singh: technique and buzzer beater timings. Currently Swasti is training at the Indira Gandhi Stadium Complex (IGSC) in Cycling New Delhi Sensation By Debi Prasad Sahu Of Odisha 9 year old Swasti Singh from Rourkela has There was a circular in her school emerged as a cycling sen- from Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) sation and is on the cusp saying that there is going to be a of achieving great things track cycling state meet in Cuttack. was a bit scared in the beginning. with the right coaching, practice and poised Swasti. 1in the near future. After winning Students were invited for trails and But our coach helped me gain con- and opportunity.” In 2018, Swosti won her first in- several laurels for Odisha, she has Swasti went to give it a try along fidence and soon I overcame my Impressed with her initial suc- ternational gold medal at the age of gone on to make India proud with with two other girls. The rest were fears. He said that even if we fall cess, coach Susil Kumar Das in- 17 in the junior women’s 2 kilome- her feats on the velodrome. Since all boys. She got selected and then from the cycle it won’t hurt much. sisted that she should try for the Winning at 23rd National ter individual pursuit event of the 2015, when Swasti burst into the she practiced for a few weeks be- We may have some scratches or nationals and in 2018 she went Road Cycling Championship 5th Asian Cup Track Cycling held at cycling scene, she has been grab- fore participating in the state meet bruises but they will heal soon. on to win her first national medal at Kurukshetra boosted my Talkatora Velodrome in New Delhi. bing everyone’s attention with where she won four gold medals. And once we gain balance in the 15 kilometer individual time confidence and soon in June In 2019 she created a new nation- her superb technique and buzzer This was a big break for her. there are very few chances of trial event at the 23rd National 2018, I got selected for India al record of 2:35:161 seconds by beater timings. Currently Swasti is Remembering her introduction to actually falling off the cycle. So Road Cycling Championship at Ku- camp. Everyone was happy beating her own previous record training at the Indira Gandhi Sta- the world of cycling, Swasti said, “I we should focus on the techniques rukshetra and she won a bronze. with my win because for the of 2:37:00 seconds to win a bronze dium Complex (IGSC) in New Delhi was not much aware about cycling and give our best.” “This win boosted my confidence first time I was featured in a medal in the 2 kilometer individual and honing her skills as a cyclist of back in 2015. Since the cycles were Coach Susil Kumar Das was im- and soon in June 2018, I got se- newspaper pursuit event of the Track Asia Cup international calibre. very different from regular ones, I pressed by Swasti’s performance lected for India camp. Everyone Cycling Championships. She fol- Talking about her current train- from the beginning and said, “I was happy with my win because Swasti Singh lowed this with a silver win at the cyclist ing in the National Capital Region, met Swasti in 2015 at Ro- for the first time I was featured in a women’s individual road race event she said, “We were asked to join urkela during a cycling newspaper. My parents were over at the 13th South Asian Games in the training programme at the trial by RSP. Her tim- the moon and felt like I had the po- shot. She not only participated but Kathmandu. At the 3rd Khelo India national camp around the second ing was very good tential to be an athlete and their also won the first medal which was Youth Games Swasti bagged two week of October this year. Once and she was a support increased,” said an elated a bronze at a national level event gold and one silver medals in the we reached here we had to stay good rider of the Swasti. and made everyone proud. U-21 girls category. in quarantine for seven days. fixie even with- At the National Road Cycling “I was really happy because no- Even before Swasti started cy- Then we had a COVID test and out any prior Championship at Kurukshetra body expected anyone from Odis- cling, she had seen the sport on the ones who tested negative practice and Swasti participated in the individ- ha to win a medal. I fell down from television and thought that the started practice. To participate knowledge of ual pursuit event in the under-16 the cycle once during the race but cyclists riding their bikes with in the national camp is every it. Within a day category and the scratch race in still went on and made it to the po- rounded handles and the helmet athlete’s dream. I have been she was able the under 18 category. She was dium. My coach was the happiest and the colourful glasses looked here earlier. Right now I am to grasp how absolutely confident about the person to see me win the medal. cool. Her father Amar Singh works the only girl cyclist from Odisha. the fixie works scratch race and she wanted to Then my confidence grew and I at the Oxygen Plant of Rourke- The practice is going well. Since which was im- participate even though it was of a wondered why can’t Odias win la Steel Plant and her mother is a there was a long gap because of pressive. I knew higher age category. Initially coach medals. Since then I have won a homemaker. Swasti’s elder broth- COVID 19, we are starting from that she would do Susil was not sure about it but he few more medals,” said a confident er is also a cyclist. She studied at the basics.” well when provided agreed and let her give it a Swasti started cycling in Novem- ber 2015 when she was in class 7.

36 my city links | January 2021 January 2021 | my city links 37 city | sports www.mycitylinks.in

Kendriya Vidyalaya, Rourkela and chosen few get to experience and I Despite winning gold in the Com- necessary in any competitive sport. now she is studying in class 12 in am happy to have got this oppor- monwealth Wrestling Champi- “She always maintains her train- arts stream at National Institute tunity. I am trying to do my best onship she started playing MMA ing schedule and never skips any of Open Schooling. Swasti has her and hope to make my state and because of her interest, which is sessions. With only three months of eyes set on the Asian Champion- country proud many more times in something Swasti finds inspiring. training she bagged four gold med- ships and the Asian Games. She the future,” added Swasti. She says, “We should do what als at the 38th Odisha State Track also wants to complete my Bach- Swasti said that makes us happy and that which & Road Cycling Championship in elors in Arts while she continues to her coach Sushil our heart loves. I Ritu’s attitude 2015. She managed it because follow her calling in cycling. Kumar Das is and her fighting style.” Apart from along with her natural skills, she Swasti discussed how her life her inspiration. cycling, Swasti loves line drawing is also very obedient which is why has changed since she began cy- MMA fighter and gardening. She loves to plant she does whatever we say to im- cling and said, “The journey so far Ritu Phogat kitchen plants and herbs in her gar- prove her skills. She is a fast learner has been amazing and exciting. has also been den. and understands how the techni- There has been a lot of difference her inspiration Susil Kumar Das, Joint Secretary calities of cycling work better than between 2015 when I began cy- as an athlete. and Chairman of Technical Com- others. She is always inquisitive to cling and today. Back then I had mittee, Odisha Cycling Association learn more and always goes up to to juggle multiple things togeth- and SAIL Coach has been mentor- the coaches to find answers to her er. I had to attend school, tuitions, ing Swasti since 2015. Talking questions. She is always ready to dance classes and cycling. Now I about what makes Swas- discuss new possibilities that may am focussing only on cycling and ti stand out from the improve her performance,” he fur- life is much more disciplined. Cy- rest, he said, “Her ther added. cling uses up a lot of energy and endurance capac- Susil feels that Swasti is very discipline is very important. After ity is great. She competitive but does not feel jeal- coming to the national camp, I am is obedient and ous of other’s success because she able to fully focus on cycling.” very determined is very grounded. She has a lot of “Now everyone in Rourkela rec- to give her best power. “We as coaches are trying ognises me. I feel very good and always. She is to channel it by improving her tech- my parents feel very proud of me. a gentle soul niques which have shown results People visit my house regularly which gives in the last few years. Swasti is not and enquire about me and how her an ad- only an ace cyclist but also a very my cycling is going on. I feel hap- vantage over good student. In school she used py that I could make my parents others as she to score around 98-99 % of marks. happy. Cycling has opened up a is capable Because of her performance and new world of opportunities and of keeping her dedication to her sport Khelo experiences for me which I never her calm India has decided to give Swasti a imagined in my wildest dreams. in adverse high end racing cycle. I am proud Coming from a small city like Ro- situations of her and I know that she has a urkela and representing India on which is bright future ahead,” concluded the world stage is something only a Singh Swasti very much Susil. 

38 my city links | January 2021 Lord Jagannath Temple, Puri

1000 temples. 15 museums. 11 beaches. 15 waterfalls... there’s a surprise at every corner.