Faith, practice, devotion, and celebration. These are some of the abiding realities that have kept societies glued together since time immemorial. In Odisha, nothing illustrates this better than the holy month of Kartika. From Deepawali, Gajalaxmi Puja, and Kartika Purnima to the popular Balijatra festivities, this month has something to cherish for all. Our Cover Story for this edition is a comprehensive walk-through of everything that this month is associated with. When it comes to evolving fashion trends, nothing perhaps comes close to the passion people have had for hair colour as a means of expressing themselves. From the plants, herbs, and metals used in ancient times to the chemical-based dyes that are in vogue these days, the world has seen them all. Over the past decades, the trend of celebrities using hair dyes has gradually caught on with other people as well. City Fashion brings you a special feature on hair dyes, including some useful dos and don’ts. The success of Chandrayaan-3, India’s mission to the Moon, has again turned the spotlight on the technological advances which have helped put the country on the global space map. In recent years, the private sector has played the crucial role of an enabler by turning the Indian Space Research Organisation’s ambitious plans into reality. City Tech takes a close look at the evolution of the space technology industry and the role of startups, including those from Odisha, in India’s impressive space forays. On October 17, 2023, the Supreme Court of India delivered a much-anticipated judgement while addressing the issue of same-sex marriage and highlighted the need for the legislature to bring in necessary laws on this. We break down the judgement, and what it means for the LGBTQ+ community, in City Beat. It takes a very special talent to not only stride across decades but also successfully straddle diverse domains like acting, writing lyrics, and composing music. Swaroop Naik, who passed away last month, did just that as he graduated from acting in films from the early 1960s on[1]wards to establishing himself as a renowned lyricist and music composer in the coming years. In Screen Shots, we talk to those who worked with him as we pay tribute to the legend. Elsewhere in this edition, City Sports discusses why the 2023 Men’s Cricket World Cup does not feel the same as earlier; City Green takes up the issue of veganism.

The simple wedding ceremonies of yore have given way to ‘events’ that are as mind-boggling in their choice of themes as they are extravagant when it comes to the costs involved. And this begs the question… is it really necessary to go so over the top, often at the expense of traditions and at the risk of incurring wastage? Our Cover Story for this edition takes a long, hard look at this trend and tries to come up with some answers. For long decades, football struggled to find a place in the minds of India’s sports lovers, overshadowed as it was by the more glamorous and mass-appeal-generating game of cricket. This has changed, albeit slowly, in recent years with a new breed of footballers led by the iconic Sunil Chhetri trying to power Indian football to new heights. In City Sports, we take a look at some key factors responsible for this transformation, including the institutional support that is being provided by the government of Odisha. Winters in Odisha may not be as extreme as in some of India’s northern states but the season still brings with it its share of skin problems. In a special feature in City Health, we talk to experts to bring you some practical skincare tips to deal with this weather. Amid a long list of negatives and controversies, it is refreshing to see winds of positive change weep through the Odia entertainment industry, guided by some immensely talented artists from different disciplines. One such individual is Lipika Singh Darai, who was among the 10 chosen for the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Breakthrough India. Read more about Lipika and the BAFTA initiative in Screen Shots. A recent musical collaboration between Odia and Assamese artists not only set foottapping but also turned the spotlight firmly on singer Achurjya Borpatra. In Screen Shots, he tells us how the project took shape; he also shares his joy at how the song has touched so many hearts in both states. The section also features the latest series of Savdhaan India, a TV show based on real-life crime stories, which is being shot in Odisha with cast and crew from the state. Arjya Patnaik, who is spearheading this initiative, talks to us about what inspired her to bring the shoot to Odisha.

2022 began as a year of hope, one that promised to put the bitter memories of the past few pandemic years behind us. It has lived up to these expectations. From art and culture to sports and entrepreneurship, 2022 saw Odisha celebrate special occasions that provided some truly special memories to cherish. The world of films was also buzzing with activity during the year as Ollywood went back to doing what it does best - entertaining people. Our Cover Story brings you snapshots of the year that was. The New Year is also about making resolutions galore! Some are easily forgotten in days while others remain firmly etched in the mind to follow all through the year. In City Lights, we list a few simple tips on how to embrace a healthier life in 2023. Odisha is joining the world in driving into a better future and green kilometres are piling up as Electric Vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular. The state government's EV policy is providing a much-needed fillip to the segment when it comes to two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and light motor vehicles. A special feature explores the green road ahead. Social reformer, gender equality advocate, or changemaker … call her what you may. Anushree Dash has put in a lot of hard work and sacrifice to reach where she is today. Our CityZen for this edition, Dash talks to us about the social organisation she runs and how she goes about helping people, particularly those from tribal and rural areas. From watching plays during his engineering days in Bhubaneswar, Dipanwit Dashmohapatra is now enjoying all the accolades coming his way after back-to-back critical successes as the lead actor in films. In Screenshots, he opens up about his roles in films as well as his role models. If there was one single event that kept the world glued to their mobile and TV screens, it was the FIFA World Cup 2022. Despite some controversies, the tournament hosted by Qatar lived up to its expectations, with Lionel Messi's Argentina ending up with their third title. Mention rap and you end up thinking of the scores of singers who have made their mark across the world. The trend has also caught up closer home in recent years. In City Lights, we profile some artists who are putting Odisha on the global rap map. Happy reading and Happy New Year!

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

2022 began as a year of hope, one that promised to put the bitter memories of the past few pandemic years behind us. It has lived up to these expectations. From art and culture to sports and entrepreneurship, 2022 saw Odisha celebrate special occasions that provided some truly special memories to cherish. The world of films was also buzzing with activity during the year as Ollywood went back to doing what it does best - entertaining people. Our Cover Story brings you snapshots of the year that was. The New Year is also about making resolutions galore! Some are easily forgotten in days while others remain firmly etched in the mind to follow all through the year. In City Lights, we list a few simple tips on how to embrace a healthier life in 2023. Odisha is joining the world in driving into a better future and green kilometres are piling up as Electric Vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular. The state government's EV policy is providing a much-needed fillip to the segment when it comes to two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and light motor vehicles. A special feature explores the green road ahead. Social reformer, gender equality advocate, or changemaker … call her what you may. Anushree Dash has put in a lot of hard work and sacrifice to reach where she is today. Our CityZen for this edition, Dash talks to us about the social organisation she runs and how she goes about helping people, particularly those from tribal and rural areas. From watching plays during his engineering days in Bhubaneswar, Dipanwit Dashmohapatra is now enjoying all the accolades coming his way after back-to-back critical successes as the lead actor in films. In Screenshots, he opens up about his roles in films as well as his role models. If there was one single event that kept the world glued to their mobile and TV screens, it was the FIFA World Cup 2022. Despite some controversies, the tournament hosted by Qatar lived up to its expectations, with Lionel Messi's Argentina ending up with their third title. Mention rap and you end up thinking of the scores of singers who have made their mark across the world. The trend has also caught up closer home in recent years. In City Lights, we profile some artists who are putting Odisha on the global rap map. Happy reading and Happy New Year!

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

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