Despite holding prestigious government positions, IPS officer Sheshadrini Reddy and trainee IAS officer Srikanth Reddy set an inspiring example by choosing a simple and modest wedding.
IPS officer Sheshadrini Reddy, a native of Lingarareddygudem in Choutuppal mandal of Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district, married trainee IAS officer Srikanth Reddy from Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh, in a legally registered ceremony on Saturday, January 24, 2026.
The marriage took place in a very simple manner at the Choutuppal Sub-Registrar Office in the presence of close family members and a few friends. Avoiding any grand celebrations or extravagance, the couple completed the formalities by signing the marriage register before the registrar.
Sheshadrini Reddy is currently serving as the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) of Quthbullapur, while Srikanth Reddy is undergoing IAS training. Their decision to opt for a modest wedding has drawn widespread appreciation on social media.
At a time when lavish weddings involving huge expenses have become common, the couple’s humility and simplicity have inspired many. Netizens have praised the officers for proving that rising in status does not mean losing modesty.
Several senior officials who attended the ceremony conveyed their blessings to the newlyweds.
Hyderabad is all set to welcome a refreshing burst of greenery as the Grand Indian Nursery Mela 2026 makes its much-awaited return this January. A favourite annual event among plant lovers, gardening enthusiasts, families, and nature seekers, the mela promises five days of immersive green experiences, learning, and relaxation right in the heart of the city.
From January 29 to February 2, 2026, People’s Plaza at Necklace Road will transform into a vibrant garden paradise overlooking the serene Hussain Sagar Lake. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, the event offers an affordable and enjoyable outing for everyone, with entry tickets priced at just ₹40.
A Celebration of Plants and Green Living
The Grand Indian Nursery Mela is known for bringing together some of the finest nurseries from across the country under one roof. Visitors can expect an impressive and diverse display of plants — from rare and exotic varieties to everyday household favourites.
Rows of colourful ornamental plants, fragrant medicinal herbs, elegant bonsai trees, trendy air plants, resilient succulents, and essential kitchen garden plants will line the venue. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or someone just beginning their green journey, the mela offers something for every level of interest.
For those keen on growing something unique at home, options such as dragon fruit plants, spice plants, and fruit-bearing saplings will be available. These not only add greenery to homes but also encourage sustainable, home-grown food habits.
Everything You Need for Your Garden
Beyond plants, the mela is a one-stop destination for gardening essentials. Visitors can browse through a wide range of:
Decorative pots and planters
Gardening tools and accessories
Organic fertilizers and compost
Soil mixtures and eco-friendly gardening solutions
Experts from participating nurseries will be present throughout the event to offer guidance on plant selection, watering schedules, sunlight requirements, and overall plant care — especially tailored to Hyderabad’s climate conditions. This makes the mela particularly helpful for beginners and balcony gardeners.
A Learning and Leisure Experience
The Grand Indian Nursery Mela is not just about shopping; it is also about learning and leisure. Students and young visitors get an opportunity to understand the importance of eco-friendly living, biodiversity, and sustainable gardening practices. Families can enjoy relaxed evening walks through lush green stalls, while photography enthusiasts will find plenty of vibrant floral corners perfect for capturing memorable shots.
The calm setting by the lake, combined with the refreshing greenery, offers a peaceful escape from the city’s fast-paced routine — making it an ideal spot to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Perfect Timing for Hyderabad’s Green Revolution
With the growing popularity of balcony gardens, indoor plants, and home gardening in Hyderabad, the Grand Indian Nursery Mela arrives at just the right time. More residents are embracing plants not just as décor but as a lifestyle choice that promotes well-being, sustainability, and a closer connection to nature.
Whether you’re looking to green up your home, start a small kitchen garden, learn about plant care, or simply enjoy a nature-filled day out, the Grand Indian Nursery Mela 2026 offers a wholesome and enriching experience.
Event at a Glance
Event: Grand Indian Nursery Mela 2026
Dates: January 29 to February 2, 2026
Venue: People’s Plaza, Necklace Road, Hyderabad
Timings: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹40
This January, don’t just bring home memories — bring home a little piece of nature from the Grand Indian Nursery Mela 2026.
The Sankranthi Special Gomatha Puja, conducted as part of the Mulam Santha Event, was successfully held on 10 January 2026 at Marri Krishna Hall, Tarnaka Gate. Devotees participated in large numbers and offered prayers to Gomatha, seeking divine blessings for health, prosperity, and well-being.
The event was carried out in a serene and devotional atmosphere with special rituals, aartis, and mantra chanting. We sincerely thank the organizers, volunteers, and all devotees for their support in making this sacred occasion a grand success.
🙏 May the blessings of Gomatha bring peace and prosperity to all.
Sri Sathya Sai Skill Development Center, Khairatabad
Pranaams to the Divine Feet of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba varu. 🙏
With Swami’s boundless grace, the Sri Sathya Sai Skill Development Center continues its mission of empowering unemployed youth through value-based, industry-relevant education.
After the successful completion of two batches of the Data Engineer course, where 220 unemployed youth were trained and 70 candidates secured placements in reputed organizations, we had planned to launch yet another Data Engineer batch. However, as always, Swami had other divine plans.
Recently, IBM Senior Management approached us with a special request—to design a focused training program for unemployed MBA Finance and Commerce graduates. Their requirement was clear: equip youth with strong foundations in
Financial Mathematics
Economics
Data Literacy (Excel)
Communication Skills
Positive Attitude and Professional Mindset
In response, our team has thoughtfully designed an intensive 3-week training program tailored specifically to meet IBM’s expectations and industry standards.
📅 Program Details
Course Start Date: 05 January (Monday)
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue: Sri Sathya Sai Skill Development Center, Khairatabad
Batch Strength: 25 unemployed youth
From this batch, 10–15 eligible and well-performing candidates are expected to be considered for opportunities aligned with IBM’s requirements.
We extend our heartfelt wishes to all the students embarking on this new journey of learning and transformation. May this program open doors to meaningful employment and a brighter future.
May Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba bless these students with knowledge, confidence, and success, and guide us always in our efforts to serve more youth.
Defying a challenging hiring environment, a 21-year-old Computer Science and Engineering student from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad has secured a staggering ₹2.5 crore annual job offer from a Netherlands-based firm during this year’s campus placements.
According to IIT Hyderabad officials, this is the highest package ever offered to a student since the institute was established in 2008.
The student, Edward Nathan Varghese, converted a two-month summer internship into a pre-placement offer (PPO). Notably, he emerged as the sole PPO recipient among the two interns shortlisted by the company.
‘First and only interview’
Speaking to The Times of India (TOI), Varghese described the moment he received the offer as unforgettable. “This was the first and only company I interviewed for. I was ecstatic when my mentor indicated that the firm would be extending me an offer. So were my parents,” he said.
Born and raised in Hyderabad, Varghese completed his schooling in Bengaluru from Class 7 to Class 12. Despite the broader slowdown in the job market, he said he remained confident about securing a top offer, crediting consistent preparation and focus on core technical skills.
His achievement has drawn widespread attention and is being seen as a testament to IIT Hyderabad’s growing reputation in producing globally competitive talent.
The Senior Citizens Meeting and Calendar Opening Program was conducted successfully in Boduppal, marked by the presence of several eminent personalities and association leaders.
The program was graced by Sri Krishna Reddy, grandson of the late Sri Marri Chenna Reddy, as the Chief Guest. Former Mayor Sri Amar Singh attended as a Special Guest, adding prestige to the occasion.
Other distinguished attendees included Sri Bandi Srinivas, Sri Jalandhar Reddy, Sri Mahesh, Sri Bhaskar Reddy (President of Chennareddy Colony Paste), Sri E. Narasimha Rao (Tasker President), Sri P. S. N. Chowdary (General Secretary), Sri Ramachandra Rao (Tasker Medchal President), Sri Bandi Sheenu, Sri Jalandhar Reddy, Sri Venkatesh (TASCA), and Sri Chiranjeevi (TASCA President, Medipally Unit).
The event was further enriched by the presence of Sri Salla Surender, Sri Mohan Rao, Sri Murali, and TERA members from the Medipally Unit.
Office bearers in attendance included Sri J. Lakshma Reddy (Vice President), Sri Narayana (General Secretary), Sri B. Mohan Reddy (Joint Secretary), and Sri K. Lakshmaiah, along with several other senior and important members.
All guests and members actively participated in the meeting, contributing to making the event a grand success.
A.V. College of Arts, Science & Commerce (Autonomous), Hyderabad
The 77th NCC Day Celebrations were successfully conducted on 22nd December 2025 at Janna Reddy Sarojini Devi Auditorium, A.V. College, with great enthusiasm, discipline, and patriotic spirit.
The programme was graced by the Chief Guest, Lieutenant Colonel Puneet Sharma, Administrative Officer, 1(T) Battalion NCC, Hyderabad Group, whose inspiring address motivated the cadets to uphold the values of leadership, discipline, and service to the nation.
Distinguished Guests
The event was honored by the presence of:
Sri V. Achyut Prasad Reddy, Secretary, AVES
Dr. K. Gautami, Correspondent, A.V. College
Subedar Major Pundulik Sahapurkar, 1(T) Battalion NCC
Sri Krishna Reddy, Founder, CSR Memorial Foundation
The celebrations included NCC Guard of Honour, Lamp Lighting Ceremony, Felicitation of Guests, Speeches, Cadet Achievements Recognition, Cultural Performances, and Alumni Interaction, showcasing the talent and discipline of NCC cadets.
Special felicitation was given to RDC & TSC Delhi Cadets, along with rank promotions, appreciating their dedication and achievements.
The event concluded with the National Anthem and NCC Song, marking a proud and memorable moment for the institution.
The management, faculty, NCC ANO, cadets, and volunteers worked together to make the event a grand success.
Embade Ramesh Wins Pulimamidi Sarpanch Election with Thumping Majority
Embade Ramesh registered a resounding victory in the Pulimamidi village Sarpanch elections held under Kandukur mandal, winning with a clear majority of 154 votes and earning the strong trust and confidence of the people.
The elections, conducted on December 15, saw a large voter turnout, with villagers extending overwhelming support to Embade Ramesh. Soon after the results were announced, celebrations broke out across the village. Supporters, local leaders, and villagers congratulated the newly elected Sarpanch by garlanding him with flowers.
Speaking on the occasion, Embade Ramesh expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the voters for placing their faith in him. He assured that he would work tirelessly for the overall development of Pulimamidi village, focusing on strengthening basic infrastructure and ensuring effective implementation of welfare schemes. He emphasized that progress would be achieved with the cooperation of all villagers.
Mr. Krishna Reddy of the CSR Memorial Foundation congratulated Embade Ramesh on his victory and wished him success in his efforts toward the development of Pulimamidi. He also conveyed his best wishes to the newly elected Sarpanch team, expressing confidence that they would work collectively for the welfare of the village, including the development of community halls and residential facilities.
Mr. Krishna Reddy further congratulated the newly elected 6th Ward Member, Mallesh Yadav, on his success.
Mulam Santha – A Celebration of Sustainability and Tradition
Hyderabad, December 13, 2025: The 18th Mulam Santha, jointly organized by the CSR Memorial Foundation and Grama Bharathi, was successfully held at Marri Krishna Hall, Tarnaka, celebrating sustainability, traditional living, and rural empowerment.
The eco-market brought together farmers, artisans, khadi workers, and millet producers from across three states, featuring over 100 stalls and 500 varieties of natural and eco-friendly products. Visitors explored seeds, saplings, bio-enzymes, herbal powders, clay crafts, khadi garments, and millet-based foods — directly supporting rural livelihoods and sustainable practices.
Mulam Santha served as a meaningful bridge between rural producers and conscious consumers, promoting organic farming, local production, and self-reliant communities. The event attracted hundreds of Hyderabadis, reinforcing the city’s growing commitment to eco-friendly living.
Organizers thanked volunteers, participants, and visitors for making the fair a grand success. Each edition of Mulam Santha continues to inspire people to embrace traditional values and sustainable lifestyles, taking Hyderabad one step closer to a greener tomorrow.
The timeless Cheriyal storytelling tradition of Katamaraju Katha came alive for students of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan School, Jubilee Hills, where artist Ramanadham Ramesh demonstrated its ritual practices, scientific reasoning, and cultural depth using Cheriyal dolls. — Image by R. Pavan
Ramesh has been spearheading efforts to revive this centuries-old narrative cycle, which comprises 32 stories dating back to 1165–1283 CE. Once central to memory, identity and community life across Telugu regions, the form has today been reduced largely to performance art and doll-making. His work aims to restore the broader ecosystem of artisans, storytellers and cultural practitioners who originally sustained it.
A Community-Built Tradition
According to Ramesh, the true strength of Katamaraju Katha lies in the communities that once built it collaboratively. “Weavers, basket makers, silversmiths, brass and leather workers, carpet makers, potters — all of them contributed to a single performance,” he explains. “The art survives only when the entire community moves together. Yet today, most are forgotten. Only narrators and dolls are remembered.”
Stories That Shaped Social Behaviour
More than entertainment, the tradition once served as a tool for social upbringing. “A mischievous child would hear these stories and feel inspired by their ancestors,” Ramesh says. “This storytelling shaped behaviour, values, and pride in one’s roots.”
Some rituals were deeply symbolic. During performances, Cheriyal dolls were even given last rites, teaching children respect for the human body and for social conduct.
Correcting Distortions and Reclaiming Accuracy
Over generations, many ballads drifted from their original versions due to informal transmission. “For example, people began saying the warrior Katamaraju married the goddess Ganga,” Ramesh notes. “But the story only mentions a woman named Ganga. Even the timeline had shifted.”
He is now working closely with narrators to rebuild accuracy and confidence. “Corrections aren’t negative,” he emphasizes. “They help narrators, audiences and patrons stay aligned.”
Documenting Ritual Science
Ramesh is also researching the scientific reasoning behind traditional practices—such as how trees were selected and cut for crafting—and plans to publish a detailed book and documentary next year.
Reviving the Tradition for Modern Audiences
To reconnect younger generations with this narrative heritage, Ramesh is preparing to present all 32 stories at 32 locations across Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Schools, colleges and community groups have already begun expressing interest.
Workshops, competitions and an international experiential conference for schoolchildren are part of the revival plan.
Ramesh believes the form remains deeply relevant: “If we present it clearly, every aspect resonates with today’s children and adults — especially in an era where entertainment is available at a click.”
His presentation at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan School showcased the historical, social and cultural richness of the tradition, demonstrating that this centuries-old storytelling form still holds meaningful lessons for contemporary audiences.
