The general perception is that one has to be a very experienced person to become a TEDx speaker. Ishita Katyal, a 10 years old girl from India has changed this perception. Last year on Children’s Day, Ishita Katyal from Pune became the youngest Indian TEDx speaker with an impressive speech in New York at Brooklyn Museum.
Ishita questioned the general mindset of adults who always ask kids “What you want to become when you grow up”?In her 4 mins speech very beautifully she shared her experience how she took the initiative of organizing a Ted talk in her school after getting an idea by attending a talk herself with her mother. She emphasizes that one doesn’t have to wait to become an adult to fulfill one’s desire.
Her speech was addressed to adults telling them to stop underestimating children, simply because they are younger. Thought provoking statement by Ishita will certainly change the mindset of parents-“Instead of asking children what they want to do when they grow up, you should ask them what they want to be right now,” Children are very motivated and full of enthusiasm. If we are able to provide nurturing environment and support to them I am sure we are going to have the chain of speakers like Ishita in near future:).
Charu Mehrotra
Promoting Excellence in Women!
I am so grateful to Platform Ted which introduces new speakers to share their ideas and concerns. This talk is by Dr. Shimi Kang regarding one skill required for an awesome life. Dr. Shimi Kang is a dynamic, entertaining, and experienced speaker.Dr. Kang skillfully combines her knowledge of motivation into her speaking events for a unique “therapeutic presentations”.
Very Beautifully Dr. Shimi describes where we are getting sucked in a day to day’s life. How we should come out of it is really mind opener for most of us.Her strong suggestion on just being in the present moment and adapting to the best level of our individual capacity is highly recommended to our generation, which is running in a rat race of life without direction.
I found these quotes in her talk very interesting to share with all-
“Isn’t it funny? We got washing machines, can reach any point in the world within 48h, got internet (imagine communication before electricity) and numerous machines working for us. Yet, we have less time than before.”
“We’re so off balance we have forgotten what it means to be human”
I would like to request to my blog readers to do listen to this talk and get some benefits out of it. All the best to Dr. Shimi Kang for success in her future endeavors!
Charu Mehrotra
Promoting Excellence in Women!
Here is an article sharing health tips for today’s women. These tips are great reminders to all women who forget to care for themselves in everyday routine –
March 8 is celebrated as Women’s Day around the globe. It is the day which celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. It is the day that calls for action for promoting gender parity. It is also a day to celebrate the womanhood.
Here are ten health tips every woman should follow so as to mark this Women’s Day a new beginning for a healthy lifestyle…
Drink Plenty Of Water
Ensure that you intake plenty of water so as to ensure that your metabolism is perfect. Also, it will help in making your skin glow, removes impurities inside your body, keeping it clean and supple.
Include Vegetables & Fruits In Your Daily Diet
Make sure that you include at least a vegetable and fruit in your daily diet. It helps in building your immune system. Eat healthily and it will make your body and mind healthy and will make you stay protected from falling sick as well, keeping you strong. Buy organic vegetables and fruits online from BazaarCart. Online grocery shopping helps you to save money and you get good and quality products.
Visit Your Doctor Regularly
Once you have crossed your 40’s it is always better and safe to get a monthly check up. Visit your doctor every month just to ensure that your body is fit and beautiful. If your family has any hereditary diseases, make sure that you do frequent check-ups on the same disease so that you remain safe.
You can depend on health supplements for immunity and other ailments. Buy them cheap from Healthkart online shopping. Relevant Healthkart coupon code can get you products at discounts.
Get A Hobby
Create a hobby for you if you do not have one. A lot of hobbies are there that can ignite your senses. Reading, gardening, pets, music – find some time for any of your favorite hobby, and you will see how it can help you relax and make yourself engaged.
Stop Drinking/Smoking
These habits might relieve you from various tensions and disturbances. But, it is not good to follow them as these might affect your health adversely in later stages. So, avoid them altogether.
Do Regular Exercise
Many of us try to start a healthy living by deciding on doing regular exercise which none of us follow with time. As a result, we get a lot of side effects. So, keep a note in following strict rules when it comes to doing exercises. It helps to get rid of many diseases, making your body resistant.
Love Your Body
It is most important that you love your body. If you do not love your body, then you will never try to maintain it fit and healthy. Think that it is the best gift you have got and take care of it in the best way, and you will see how it will make you look beautiful.
Manage Your Weight
Women are likely to put on weight soon after they become a mother and later on due to different stages of life and as they age weight increases. So, it is important that you manage your weight. Check it every month or once every three months to keep an eye on your weight.
If you are pregnant, then you should not restrict on your weight. Wear loose and comfortable maternity clothes. FirstCry is a great store to buy products for your newborn and also for your maternity products. Shop via FirstCry App to get extra discounts on your shopping.
Sleep Well
Last but not the least, make sure that you sleep well. Ensure that your body gets the required amount of rest as well as sleep. If you are not able to sleep properly, then consult a doctor to find the reason.
If you follow these simple steps, you are very much likely to stay healthy and beautiful for years. So ladies out there, gear up this Women’s Day to follow these steps to stay nice!
Charu Mehrotra
Promoting Excellence in Women!
Passionate, enthusiastic, and crazy for dance, Sonia Khatwani is one such girl whom I met in her dance workshop and was struck by her sheer passion for Zumba and Bollywood
dance. Sonia is a talented and certified Zumba Fitness Instructor and Bollywood dance choreographer in Singapore. What makes her different is her contagious energy while training people and continuous efforts to reach out to as many people and make Zumba dance as a popular dance for fitness. She has not only reached out to housewives, school students, college groups, conducted corporate workshops, but also choreographed performances for weddings, festivals, community center programs, hospital staff, associations, colleges, clubs, various events in Singapore and her clients belong to all races. Sonia is also a Dance Choreographer & Fitness Instructor with Bollydancing Studio Singapore. This video speaks a lot about her passion for dance –
https://www.facebook.com/DynamicDreamz2014/videos/1636586766592721/
Women lines is proud to share her entrepreneurial dance journey in her own words-
1.Please share to the readers’ something about yourself?
My name is Sonia Khatwani. I was born in Mumbai and brought up in Singapore. I love spreading joy & seeing everyone happy. I love Dance. I feel I am born to dance and express myself through dance. It has been a passion since I was 7 years old. I owe heartfelt thanks to my Mom who has been a big support in my journey to pursue my passion.
I am a crazy fan of Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor. I love her acting skills, confidence & she has been an amazing inspiration to me. One of our common goals was losing weight and if you have watched her journey it says it all.
2.So when did you ventured into this venture and what inspired or motivated you to take a plunge into this venture?
Dancing has always been my passion but didn’t see it coming along as a career. I started working since 18 years old in various fields but just wasn’t satisfied with any of the jobs. An opportunity knocked my door in 2008 to be trained at the Bollywood Dance Academy by well known A-list Celebrity Choreographer Toby Fernandez from ‘ Jhalak Dikhlaja’s Fame.’ I have also performed for many regional celebrated projects such as Relive Pancham 2008, at the Esplanade Theater, Bollywood Cutting Edge at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, & most notably alongside Bollywood’s Biggest star Mr. Shah Rukh Khan at the Zee Carnival 2008 at Suntec City Singapore. My confidence boosted when I was asked to conduct classes. Life is definitely not a piece of cake. There were many hurdles in my way but I never gave up teaching. I Started part-time classes from 2008-2011 at Bollydancing Studio & also continued working until one fine day in 2011 I told myself if I don’t follow my heart I will never achieve my dreams. Finally, I left my job & the journey started to explore my passion dance!
3.Can you share with us some of the challenges you faced during your initial days?
Believing in yourself is the biggest challenge ever. When I started off Dancing as a career, the first few questions asked was, if I am in the right field? Will I be able to pull it off as an Instructor?When you say you are a Dance Instructor the reaction you get especially from your friends & acquaintances. Their questions are what will people think?
Challenges I faced when started teaching initially was to fulfill client’s expectations.The most important part of my career was to develop the trust with all the companies I work with & also my clients so that we maintain a healthy relationship. I remember traveling around for 5 classes a day in Singapore & reaching on time was the biggest obstacle for me. Preparing the right dance music n choreography for steps was equally important & ensuring my wardrobe was well planned too. Initially, I could not differentiate the difference between being professional compared to being a casual friend. But over the years I learned how to, as life is a learning experience 🙂
4.So how do you balance your personal and professional life?
To have a Balance Lifestyle I ensure I prioritize what I must do with what I enjoy doing. It is very important to Balance my lifestyle as this way I can reduce stress and manage a well-balanced life. There can be physical or emotional health consequences if I don’t set my priorities right. So my focus is always on-
1.Taking care of myself by Loving Myself
2.Making Sure I Am Aware Of My Priorities
3. Creating a focused mindset is essential for me
4. Expect the unexpected
5.Maintain a positive mental attitude
5.What would you suggest to other aspiring women who want to venture out on their own?
To all the aspiring women out there-
following your dreams is a must as it gives you self-confidence, inner peace and also a chance to motivate others to follow their dreams. Remember to be positive always, no matter what happens. Life is a gamble there might be up’s n downs but never give up that hope. Always follow your heart & never give up. Yes, in the beginning, you will need to swim on your own, Not many will support your ideas. You will never get direct answers to your questions when you seek help. You need to experiment yourself & then learn from your mistakes. It is not easy but with love & support of family & friends in the matter of time, everything goes well. Enjoy the ride in life just like a roller coaster
6.Is there any person who has mentored/supported/inspired you?
The person who has always mentored & supported me is my Mom. It is because of her I started developing the love for Dance. My mum’s side of the family especially her youngest brother and sister has given me lots of support and motivation to focus on my passion. Last but not least I would want to thank Mihir Wani, co-founder of Bollydazz/Bollydancing Studio… Who has always inspired me during my ups and downs. Who always had trust in me and guided me throughout these 5 years. I love all of you for being there for me.
7.What do you have in the pipeline for your venture’s future development?
Dynamic Dreamz wants to inspire as many adults & children to keep fit & live a Healthy Lifestyle by Dancing out their calories for now. I have not thought about future development as yet. Prefer not to plan and go with the flow of opportunities. Let’s see what comes along let it be a surprise.
Some achievements by Sonia Khatwani:
- Participated in the “Rupee Room Bollywood Dance Academy” organized by Zee TV Asia Pacific.
Performed at ” Relive Pancham 2008″ at Esplanade, Singapore with Toby Fernandez.
Performed at ” Bollywood Cutting Edge ” in Singapore with Toby Fernandez.
Participated in the “Zee Carnival 2008” alongside Mr. Shahrukh Khan at Suntec City, Singapore.
Won the “Best Dancer “award in a dance competition organized by Sindhi Association Malaysia for the So you think you can dance” championship
Trained young and aspiring children at the prestigious ” International Kids Festival 2008″ at Esplanade Singapore.
Visit her FB page to know about her updates-https://www.facebook.com/DynamicDreamz2014
Womenlines wish Sonia all the best for her dance journey. Keep rocking Sonia!
Charu Mehrotra
Promoting Excellence in Women!
Happy New Year to my lovely blog readers!
As the new year starts and before mind starts focusing on goals and resolutions I want to reflect a little on the year which has passed and which has carried with it so many learning, sweet memories, laughter, joys, emotions and much more. I am full of so much gratitude to so many things throughout the year which has helped me to grow as a better person –
1. I am thankful to youtube for sharing such amazing contents on its channel, which has really helped me to gain great knowledge about so many topics, from finding guidance to teach my kid potty training:). Believe me, friends, you can find the solution of any problem live on youtube and this certainly can help you to improve upon yourself in all ways:)
2. I am grateful to platform TED talks which is a free platform for knowledge sharing. There is a tremendous amount of learning from experts on different topics ranging from science, technology, motivation and many other subjects. Entrepreneurs can gain so much knowledge by listening to various topics on TED, which really opens up the mind and benefits in taking the right action.
3. I am grateful to influencers on Linkedin for sharing their knowledge on topics related to various professions. I will strongly recommend women who are working from home to follow influencers in their work field. As, when we work from home we have to strive to keep grooming yourself, which is quite challenging when you work alone.
4. I am grateful to social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Whatsapp which has given amazing communication and content sharing approaches. This is helping in building up strong personal relationships and creating awareness about what’s happening in the world.
The entrepreneurial journey is all about mindfulness friends and mindful use of such platforms can really help in making this journey full of excitement and amazing learning. With proper focus, any woman can achieve whatever she wants. Start loving yourself and your time and you will take proper care of everybody, trust me:)!
Charu Mehrotra
Promoting Excellence in Women!
Ho Chi 
Minh 
City(HCMC), also known as Saigon city, is in southern Vietnam. It is known to play an important role during the Vietnam war!
HCMC is also known for its French colonial architecture like Notre-Dame Basilica, made entirely of materials imported from France, and the Saigon Central Post Office. Visitors can observe Food stalls line the city’s streets, especially around bustling Ben Thanh Market. A city is marked by Simple people, Bamboo hat wearing roadside sellers, chaotic traffic(mostly comprising of Bikes, even kids wear a helmet there :)). HCMC is safe for women travellers. Many woman group visitors visit HCMC to understand and know more about Vietnam history. I was amazed to see Vietnamese women are equally hard working as men and contribute to the finances of the family. As an entrepreneur, I love to explore new places and meet people from diverse background. Visiting Vietnam gave me a deep insight into how hard work and dedication can really help to survive in odd situations
Few things to share about the place-
- Visitors should book a tour(either private or a group with a tour guide). They will get to know exact details about the place and history.
- Mekong Delta, a must visit for people who are looking for a break from hectic city life. Mekong Delta gives one a Kampong(village) life experience, near to nature, horse cart ride, tropical fruits, honey tea experience will give u a soulful experience.
- Visitors are advised to take Vinasun taxis only while going to different places in HCMC, as it is reliable.
- Rice Paper rolls a must try for all visitors. Amazing experience for veggies and non-veggies too.
- Do take a walking stroll around Dong Khoi street leading to Cathedral and Post office square and end up at the Reunification palace. Visitors will experience the traffic, local street side food sellers, beautiful art galleries, young college student groups, local Vietnamese coffee outlets, and many more local city experiences
- Plan to visit Cu Chi tunnel is a must for every visitor, as they get reflection about Vietnam war and struggle which locals faced during those days. Inside of Cu Chi tunnel, experience makes one think if there is a will there is away. With bare hands, people dig the tunnel and kept digging to keep their families save.
- Ben Tanh market is a place for street shopping, but with good bargaining skills and less baggage along as the place is compact with narrow lanes for walking area.
- Jade Emperor Pagoda is worth visiting place situated in heart of the city. Built-in 1909 in honour of the supreme Taoist god (the Jade Emperor or King of Heaven, Ngoc Hoang), is one of the most spectacularly atmospheric temples in HCMC, stuffed with statues of divinities and heroes. The pungent smoke of incense fills the air and gives a different feel of the place.
- Currency in Dong gets very confusing to handle and reminds one of their monopoly days:).As a newcomer to the country, one must be very careful to check the money he is handling as some of the bill colours are quite similar. And because of the current rate of exchange, 1 US dollar is worth 21,000 VND. So when one exchange $20000 it will make him feel as though he is one of the wealthiest people on earth.
- If visitors want to explore the city view from a different angle then they should visit Bitexco Financial Tower. From the 50th floor of the tower, the visitor can admire the incredible panoramic view of the beautiful city. Charu MehrotraPromoting Excellence in Women!
Wayne Dyer, a name which just brings you a feeling of inspiration and motivation!
Wayne Dyer was a motivational speaker and author of many best selling books in his life. Recently his unfortunate death has lead to loss of an amazing person whose books, quotes and thoughts have guided millions around the globe to lead life right way.
I want to pay my gratitude to him by sharing the link of his movie ‘The Shift’ which he wanted the whole world to watch In fact he used to give the copy of this movie to people he met at airports or people he came across. Wayne loved this film and wanted as many people as possible to see it and get the benefits of learning to go from Ambition to Meaning in their life.This movie teaches how important it is to be in touch of real oneself and come over one’s ego to face the reality of our life. As a woman at times, it is difficult for us to keep our ego at bay and we take harsh decisions in life. This movie will certainly help womenfolk to develop a positive mindset and live life with purpose.I want to request my all readers to watch this movie mindfully. The powerful shift from the ego, we are taught early in life by parents and society—which promote an emphasis on achievement and accumulation—are shown in contrast to a life of meaning, focused on serving and giving back.
This movie will certainly help people in making the shift from ego-driven ambition to a life of love.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Exuw4mtzdyQ
Do watch it friends!
Charu Mehrotra
Promoting Excellence in Women!
August is a great month to enjoy the spirit of Indian and Singaporean Independence!
It was awesome experience listening to speeches by Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong of Singapore, on occasion of the celebration of Independence day of respective countries. I want to share few takeaways from both speeches with my blog readers-
1.The phenomenal concept of ‘Team India‘ in which Mr. Modi has requested all Indians to consider themselves as part of a team, which is working towards the development of the nation, is very impressive. We as women can make a great team and contribute in various ways for the development of a country.
2. Raise your daughter and son equally. Both should be taught skills to work for their choice of career and also how to take care of family equally. As mothers let’s pledge to teach equal skills to kids of both genders, to value and respect each other, to be mindful of responsibilities for our country. Values taught to present generation can do wonders for future of our country.
3. We have to be mindful of taking care of nature and conserving natural resources. If we can inculcate certain habits in our kids from childhood like saving water, less usage of plastic, saving electricity, limit wastage of food and certain other habits in favor of nature care.I am sure future generation will be able to enjoy nature and lead a safe life.
4. If we curb certain habits like stop giving and taking bribes, respect every individual same whatever level they are, follow general rules regarding traffic, standing in a queue, waiting for your turn and much more, in few years time our country will definitely come in the category of top countries in the world. It was such a great feeling of getting the driving license made in India, without giving a single currency not:).Things are definitely possible if we take initiatives.
5.”Make the most of what you have, chase that rainbow!”-This statement by PM Lee in the video shown during the National day celebrations in Singapore is a very impactful statement. Kids can do wonders if they are taught to be mindful to focus on their goals and work hard to achieve it, in whatever circumstances they are.Same goes with us as adults. We should put our efforts in making the most of what opportunities we get, instead of cribbing about what we don’t have!
Charu Mehrotra
Promoting Excellence in Women!
Congratulations for your second parenthood journey friends!
It must have been the really overwhelming journey from framing mind to take this journey again in life to get in your hands after a long wait and care. Initially, it must have been challenging to gear up for the challenges, getting back to basics of life, diapers, bottles, doctor visits and the list goes on….But couples take this decision as they very well know the importance of siblings and what it matters to have a brother or sister in life. That’s why they plan the second baby as they don’t want their first baby to lead the life alone. Believe me, friends, though it takes umpteen amount of courage to jump in the well of parenthood once again, once you have crossed the stage and started enjoying your second parenthood journey you will be grateful to God for this blessing. You are a different person now and you will love to have these changes in life- 
1. Your inner child is jumping with joy:
It is so much fun to enjoy childlike fantasies. As with babies we ourselves start behaving like babies to play with them. So let your inner child explore the fun again. Behave silly with kids, take silly snaps together. Dance with your kid.Fill every moment with smiles and laughter.
2.Messy home, dresses, broken crockery doesn’t matter to you anymore now:
You are surprised yourself that how much particular you were for a clean house with all things properly arranged. With a kid in house properly arranged house looks odd. There has to be a corner in a house which gives kids the freedom to explore and arrange things on her own. This will certainly help her improving her motor skills and also will boost her to play more creative pretend and play games
3. You learn to enjoy the present moment
As an adult, you are so busy always that your mind is either reflecting about past or pondering about future. After having kids you learn the importance of mindfulness. You start enjoying the present moment with kids and enjoy it fully.Kids always live in present moment and enjoy it fully. They are never thinking about past
4. You start believing in power of love
Kids are full of love.They are the bundle of joy who make life beautiful as they spread joy around. As adults, you often forget the beauty of life and don’t enjoy it.Our kids only make us realize the power of love. You suddenly realize that it is such a blessed feeling to be loved by your kids. And once you start believing in the power of love you will see how relaxed you are and how often you smile!
5. You learn the power of persistence in achieving your goals
Have you ever observed your kid’s persistence regarding achieving some toy or candy?No matter what happens your child makes sure he gets what he wants through either repetition, or tantrums, or any other way he takes up. It is a big lesson to be learned. Be persistent for your goals. Don’t settle for low results. Always persist for achieving your goals and you will surely achieve it!
Charu Mehrotra
Promoting Excellence in Women!
I am an entrepreneur and every new day is a new learning day for me!
In my startup journey, I am like a school kid who is learning many new skills, as and when required. If you are an entrepreneur by choice then you know the roller coaster ride which this journey takes you through. Life is full of learning curves in any entrepreneurial journey. I have always looked out for inspiration from successful entrepreneurs like Arianna Huffington, JK Rowling, Oprah Winfrey, and many others.I have read about their sharing in media regarding their entrepreneurial journey which is so inspiring. It gives me encouragement to look out for those traits which these entrepreneurs are having and I have to develop.
I have to learn a lot as it is beginning of my journey, but will love to share few skills (which I am sharpening:))can help you to ease off your entrepreneurial journey-
1.Mindfulness-Entrepreneurs have to be always mindful what they are doing. They must be alert about living in present and acting as per to do list. All entrepreneurs are addicted to their to do list and cannot survive without it. It helps them to be mindful about their work and to live their life in present.
2.Focus– Entrepreneurs have to be very focused on their goals. They must be having their business plan sketched in their heart and always be taking the decision as per plans. The fully focussed mind can help entrepreneurs to achieve their targets within deadlines. In case you are not able to focus then invest time in training your mind to focus on doing some exercises and keeping yourself relaxed.
3.Patience– Patience is a virtue which every entrepreneur requires in abundance. Entrepreneurial journey is not a cake walk. It is full of hurdles, challenges, and failures. Patience only can help you to survive in this field. Keep yourself calm and have a strong faith in yourself. This will certainly help you to succeed, no matter what the challenges are.
4. Good communication and networking skills- Since the inception of the idea of the startup to the stage of launching the business, entrepreneurs are required to communicate both written and verbally with so many types of people. Good communication skills will not only help you to deliver fast but also share your idea easily. Networking skills will help you to meet right people at the right time which can help you to grow your business.
It is a long way to go friends. I will keep sharing more skills as I will be learning in my journey. Please do share your special skill which you have acquired in your journey:)!
Charu Mehrotra
Promoting Excellence in Women!