Tag: Raksha Bandhan

Business

Bhumi & Samiksha Pednekar Launch Premium Water Brand ‘Backbay’

Tanisha Cardozo

In a powerful blend of family values, environmental consciousness, and entrepreneurial ambition, Bhumi Pednekar, the acclaimed Bollywood actress, and her sister Samiksha Pednekar, a lawyer and business strategist, have launched Backbay, a premium Himalayan water brand poised to make waves in the Indian beverage industry.

Backbay isn’t just a business—it’s a legacy-in-progress. After two years of planning, the sisters have established a state-of-the-art manufacturing unit in Himachal Pradesh, directly sourcing natural mineral water from the Himalayan region. With a daily capacity of 45,000 boxes, the facility is powered by a largely women-led workforce, further underlining the sisters’ commitment to empowerment and equity.

Backbay’s initial offerings include 500 ml and 750 ml water bottles, priced at ₹150 and ₹200 respectively. The pricing positions it between high-end luxury bottled water (₹600) and premium plastic bottles (₹90), making Backbay a “premium yet accessible” choice for conscious consumers.

What sets Backbay apart is its Gable Top Paper packaging, a packaging style common globally but rare in India. Combined with bio caps, this eco-forward approach reflects the brand’s mission to minimize environmental impact. Bhumi proudly states that Backbay is the only Indian brand currently using this packaging model.

Backbay isn’t stopping at plain mineral water. Samiksha revealed that they are already developing flavored sparkling water in exciting variants like lychee, peach, and lime—targeting health-conscious and lifestyle-driven consumers.

With a vision of reaching ₹100 crore in revenue in four years, the Pednekars are serious about scaling their brand while staying true to their roots.

The launch of Backbay comes just ahead of Raksha Bandhan, a festival that holds deep personal meaning for the sisters. Bhumi shared touching memories of tying rakhis every year and how their late father’s absence only strengthened their bond.

Samiksha recalled how Bhumi shielded her emotionally during the most difficult times, becoming a pillar of strength. “She’s my strongest protector,” Samiksha said.

Their love is no longer just symbolic—it now powers a shared dream, a business, and a brand that’s set to redefine premium hydration in India.

Human Interest

A Rakhi, a Gift of Life: Mumbai Teen Bonds with Donor’s Brother

allycaralgoa

In a moving display of love, gratitude, and the deep connections organ donation can create, sixteen-year-old Anamta Ahmad from Mumbai celebrated Raksha Bandhan in an unforgettable way. She tied a rakhi to 14-year-old Shivam Mistry, the younger brother of her organ donor — using the very hand she had received from his late sister, Riya.

The emotional moment was not just a festival ritual but a powerful symbol of life, generosity, and enduring bonds. For Anamta, the transplant was more than a medical procedure — it was a second chance at living fully, gifted through Riya’s selflessness and her family’s decision to donate.

Shivam, touched by the gesture, expressed that his sister’s memory and kindness live on through Anamta. The rakhi, traditionally a thread of protection between siblings, took on a deeper meaning — a celebration of how one act of organ donation can weave together lives forever.

This extraordinary story stands as a reminder of the profound impact of organ donation and the hope it brings. It calls on us to recognise the legacy that donors leave behind and the connections that go beyond blood, geography, and circumstance.

EduConnect

PM SHRI GHS Morpirla Students Celebrate Raksha Bandhan at Rashtrapati Bhavan

allycaralgoa

In a remarkable celebration of culture and unity, four students from PM SHRI Government High School Morpirla — Daksh Velip, Priyanshu Velip, Ranjisha Gaonkar, and Ridhi Velip — accompanied by National Awardee Headmistress Maria Murena Miranda, visited Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi to celebrate Raksha Bandhan.

The highlight of the visit was the presentation of special handmade cards and rakhis to the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu. The President graciously accepted the gifts and expressed her admiration for the students’ colourful Goan costumes, which added a vibrant cultural touch to the occasion.

This unique opportunity allowed the students from the tribal village of Morpirla to immerse themselves in the traditions and grandeur of the nation’s highest office. They also had the chance to visit Amrit Udyan, where they enjoyed the lush greenery and diverse flora, adding to the memorable experience.

Headmistress Miranda, who attended the At Home Reception hosted by the President on Independence Day last year, shared her joy:

“It is a golden opportunity to see our students experience the cultural significance of Raksha Bandhan at Rashtrapati Bhavan.”

The President also encouraged the students to plant trees and nurture them, promoting environmental responsibility.

The students expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu, the Ministry of Education, the Chief Minister of Goa Dr. Pramod Sawant, the Director of Education Sir Shailesh Zingde, and the State Project Director of Goa Samagra Shiksha Dr. S.S. Ghadi, for making this visit possible.

This visit will forever remain a treasured memory for the students, symbolising the bond between tradition, education, and national pride. The students will cherish this moment always.

EduConnect

Ek Rakhi Ped Ke Naam: A Green Raksha Bandhan Celebration by Smt. Sunandabai Bandodkar High School

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

In a world increasingly burdened by environmental challenges, Smt. Sunandabai Bandodkar High School took a refreshing step towards sustainability — all through a festival deeply rooted in Indian tradition. This year’s Raksha Bandhan was not just about the bond between siblings but also about a heartfelt connection between humans and nature.

In a unique initiative titled “Ek Rakhi Ped Ke Naam”, students crafted biodegradable rakhis using natural materials such as leaves, flowers, banana stems, creepers, and coconut threads. These were not just decorative bands — they symbolized a pledge of protection, not for a sibling, but for the trees and plants around them.

Under the shade of trees and amidst the sounds of rustling leaves, students tied these rakhis to plants in the school garden. Along with this symbolic act, they took an oath to nurture and protect the environment, turning the celebration into a powerful eco-message.

This initiative did more than mark a festival. It encouraged children to reflect on their role as caretakers of the planet, showcasing how traditional values can harmoniously align with environmental responsibility.

By blending culture, creativity, and climate consciousness, Smt. Sunandabai Bandodkar High School has set an inspiring example for schools and communities across the country.

Let this be a reminder:
🌱 Every tree we tie a rakhi to… is a promise to a greener future. 🌍

Special Occasion

More Than a Thread: The Unbreakable Bond of Brotherhood

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Nikita Volvoikar

As Raksha Bandhan approaches, I find myself wrapped in a wave of emotions — love, nostalgia, gratitude. It’s a festival that always reminds me of the special bond I share with my brothers, especially Nikhil, my elder brother, who has been my first friend, partner in crime, and a constant support system.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DNHcPUePP7M/

Ours is what you’d call a Tom and Jerry relationship — filled with squabbles and silly fights, yet rooted in a love that never wavers. Despite all the teasing and disagreements, we’ve always stood up for each other when it mattered most.

Growing up, Nikhil and I shared a deep love for dancing. He would take me to the dance floor at weddings, and together we’d dance the night away. Even today, I miss those moments — especially now that he works away from home. He’s also my trusted secret keeper, and we’ve created memories that I will always hold dear.

One of the things I admire most about him is how he expresses his care — not through grand gestures, but through thoughtful little actions. Whenever he calls home, he always checks in on me:
“Where’s baby? Is she home from work? What is she doing?”
 It’s those small things that speak volumes about his love.

Mom once told me that Nikhil used to pray for a sister before I was born — and when I arrived, he was overjoyed. That thought alone fills my heart with warmth. Over the years, our relationship has grown from sibling rivalry to a beautiful friendship built on trust, loyalty, and deep affection.

But Nikhil isn’t the only brother I’m blessed with. I’ve had many brothers — by blood and by bond — who’ve played important roles in my life.

There’s Rahul, with whom I have cherished summer vacation memories. We would spend hours playing and just enjoying the innocence of childhood.
Johnathan — my modern-day partner in crime — our plans are always spontaneous, but somehow, they always work.
Calvin, my little brother, has grown up so fast. Watching him become more independent and confident makes me so proud.
Fabian, Viraj, Rajat, and Vineet — each one has stood by me in different ways, sharing in laughter, festivals, and life’s ups and downs.

From bursting firecrackers during Ganesh Chaturthi to simply being present during key moments, my brothers have always made me feel seen, loved, and protected.

As I look back at these beautiful memories, I realize how truly blessed I am. We’ve had our fights, disagreements, and differences — but what’s endured is our bond, stronger than ever.

So this Raksha Bandhan, I want to say thank you — to Nikhil and all my brothers — for being there, for loving me unconditionally, and for making my life brighter in ways you may never even realize. Happy Raksha Bandhan to all the wonderful brothers and sisters out there. May your bonds continue to grow stronger, and may all broken ties be healed with love.