News

Wellgro Leaders Meet–2026 Held Successfully at Marri Krishna Reddy Hall-Tarnaka

The Wellgro Leaders Meet–2026, organised by Wellgro Commerce Private Limited, was held successfully at Marri Krishna Reddy Hall, Vijayapuri, Tarnaka, Secunderabad, on Saturday.

The event was organised with the theme “Learn, Earn, and Enjoy Working” and commenced at 9:30 a.m. Leaders, business partners, and participants from various sectors attended the meet in large numbers, making it a grand success.

Mr. Lohith, ATA Foundation candidate, attended the programme as a special guest and addressed the gathering. In his speech, he highlighted the importance of leadership, self-employment opportunities, and empowering youth to achieve sustainable growth. His inspiring address added great value to the event and motivated the participants.

During the Leaders Meet, Wellgro showcased its diverse range of products and business opportunities across sectors such as health, wellness, eco-friendly solutions, and innovative services. Informative sessions were conducted to create awareness about entrepreneurship and modern business practices.

Participants expressed satisfaction over the well-organised event and appreciated the positive learning environment. The programme concluded on a high note, with organisers stating that more such leadership and business development events will be conducted in the future.

MNJ performs 250 free robotic-assisted cancer ops

MNJ Institute of Oncology, a government-run tertiary cancer centre with more than five decades of service, has conducted over 250 robotic-assisted cancer surgeries during the past 30 months, free of cost for patients from economically weaker and middle-income backgrounds.

A significant proportion of these procedures have been performed for gynaecological cancers, which account for a substantial share of the institute’s surgical workload.

Over 150 robotic-assisted gynaecological cancer surgeries have been carried out in the last two years, primarily for cancers of the cervix, uterus, and ovary — conditions that often require surgery in anatomically narrow pelvic spaces where precision is critical.

According to India’s National Cancer Registry Programme, cervical cancer continues to be among the most frequently diagnosed cancers in Indian women, contributing to a considerable share of cancer-related morbidity and mortality.

While cervical cancer remains a major focus, uterine cancer is another condition where robotic-assisted surgery gives surgeons a clear advantage in delivering good outcomes.

Commenting on the institution’s approach, MNJ Cancer Hospital Surgical Oncology HOD Dr. Ramesh Maturi said,
“Our experience with the da Vinci surgical system has supported our ability to deliver complex gynaecological cancer surgeries within the public healthcare system. In gynaecological cancers, where surgery is often performed in anatomically narrow pelvic spaces, the robotic platform provides greater control and precision, including the ability to perform nerve-sparing procedures that can help reduce post-surgical sexual and urological complications.”

At MNJ Institute, robotic-assisted surgery has been adopted selectively for complex pelvic procedures, including radical hysterectomies and staging surgeries, especially in cases where standard laparoscopic approaches may be technically challenging.

MNJ Cancer Hospital Director Dr. Joseph Benjamen said,
“As a public institution providing specialised cancer care, the responsibility extends beyond introducing advanced technology to ensuring it is used in a manner that strengthens access, consistency, and accountability in patient care.

Lamakaan Marks 16 Years with Progressive Cultural Programming in Hyderabad

Hyderabad’s open cultural space Lamakaan will celebrate its 16th anniversary with a four-day programme from February 5 to February 8, 2026, featuring literature, theatre, dance, poetry and political dialogue in new and experimental formats.

The celebrations will open with a special reading by veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah, who will present excerpts from the works of noted Urdu dramatist Imtiaz Ali Taj, best known for Anarkali, later adapted into the classic Hindi film Mughal-e-Azam.

Speaking about the anniversary programme, Ashhar Farhan, one of Lamakaan’s founders, said the focus this year marked a clear shift in approach. “This year is a move from being reflective to being progressive,” he said, adding that the programming would be more exploratory and experimental in nature.

Urdu literature forms a key strand of this year’s celebrations, with an emphasis on rediscovering dramatists such as Imtiaz Ali Taj. Telugu literature will also be in focus, with discussions examining how economic liberalisation has influenced literary themes and concerns.

Among the more unusual offerings is a Bharatanatyam adaptation of Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s poem Utho Ab Maati Se, which reflects on Palestine. According to Mr. Farhan, the idea is to place political and literary texts within new performative contexts.

Lamakaan’s engagement with poetry has also evolved over the years. “Earlier, we explored the lives of poets. Now we want to examine how poetics itself has evolved and changed over time,” he said.

Political discussions at the venue are also being reimagined. Moving away from what Mr. Farhan described as ‘hard talks’ with politicians, the focus is now on broader political processes. An upcoming session by Biju Mathew, who worked closely on Zohran Mamdani’s election campaign in New York, will offer insights into how minority candidates can succeed in highly capitalist urban environments.

The programme will also feature reinterpretations of established narratives, including ‘Du Saraswati’, which retells episodes from Indian epics through the perspective of a Dalit woman.

Hyderabad to Host Heritage Run on February 22; Over 5,000 Runners Expected

Hyderabad is gearing up to host a city-wide marathon celebrating its cultural legacy and civic pride. The Heritage Run, scheduled for February 22, 2026, is being jointly organized by Telangana Tourism and Rapido, with over 5,000 participants expected from various age groups and backgrounds.

The 5K and 10K routes will start and end at the Qutub Shahi Tombs, passing through scenic heritage stretches such as Golconda Fort and Taramati Baradari. The 21K half marathon will begin at Charminar and conclude at the Qutub Shahi Tombs, covering landmarks including High Court, City College, State Assembly, and Golconda Fort.

Kranthi Valluru, Managing Director of Telangana Tourism Development Corporation, said the event aims to encourage participants to engage with Hyderabad’s architectural, historical, and social fabric through movement and participation.

Special Chief Secretary Jayesh Ranjan highlighted the initiative’s dual focus on fitness and cultural awareness, stating, “Hyderabad’s heritage extends beyond monuments and lives in its streets, neighborhoods, and people. The run offers residents an opportunity to reconnect with the city while promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.”

The Heritage Run is part of Telangana’s broader efforts to promote tourism through innovative and inclusive initiatives, combining public participation with celebration of the city’s rich heritage.

GHMC Likely to Be Split into Three Corporations After February 2026

Hyderabad: The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), which was recently expanded from 650 square kilometres to 2,053 square kilometres, may soon undergo a major structural change. Indications suggest that the civic body could be divided into three separate municipal corporations after February 2026.

Speculation around the proposed division gained momentum following a media conference addressed by GHMC Commissioner R.V. Karnan on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. When asked about reports of bifurcation, the Commissioner avoided a direct response and stated that GHMC would continue in its present form only until February 2026. His remarks were seen as a strong hint towards an impending reorganisation.

Although no official announcement has been made so far, unconfirmed reports regarding the division of GHMC into three corporations have been doing the rounds for some time. With its current size making it the largest municipal corporation in the country, the move is believed to be aimed at improving administrative efficiency and governance.

Further clarity is expected from the State government in the coming months, as officials continue to examine proposals related to the restructuring of the civic body.

India’s Finest Historians Under One Roof at History Literature Festival 2026

Hyderabad: The Fourth Edition of the History Literature Festival (HLF) will be held from February 6 to 8, 2026, at The Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet, bringing together some of India’s most eminent historians, archaeologists, academicians, and authors under one roof.

The festival aims to foster meaningful conversations around India’s rich and complex past, offering a vibrant platform for discussions on history, archaeology, culture, literature, cinema, food, music, and society. Through engaging panel discussions, talks, and interactive sessions, HLF continues its mission of making history accessible beyond academic circles and into public discourse.

HLF 2026 will showcase diverse perspectives, encouraging dialogue on ideas, discoveries, and debates that continue to shape the understanding of India’s historical narrative. The festival also highlights the importance of critical thinking and storytelling in preserving and interpreting history.

As part of its broader outreach, the History Literature Festival is documenting its journey through press articles and online coverage, allowing wider audiences to engage with the sessions, conversations, and ideas emerging from the festival.

With free entry and an inclusive approach, HLF 2026 promises to be a significant cultural and intellectual gathering for history enthusiasts, students, scholars, and the general public alike.

Doctors Must Take Cancer Care Beyond Hospitals: Dr. Vijayanand Reddy

Padma Shri awardee and senior oncologist Dr. P. Vijayanand Reddy has stressed that quality cancer care must go beyond hospitals and reach the most vulnerable sections of society.

Speaking on equitable healthcare, Dr. Reddy said cancer treatment is a basic right, not a privilege, and no child should be denied care due to poverty. Through the Ushalakshmi Breast Cancer Foundation, he has supported underprivileged patients with free or subsidised treatment, medicines, nutrition, and follow-up care.

Dr. Reddy believes doctors must actively engage in public health, policy advocacy, cancer prevention, and education reforms. Highlighting the importance of psychological and palliative care, he said dignity, comfort, and listening are central to healing.

His book I Am a Survivor reflects lessons from patients on resilience, humility, and hope, reinforcing his belief that medicine is as much about humanity as it is about science.

75 Cancer Survivors Create World Record Singing National Anthem in Hyderabad

Hyderabad:
More than 75 cancer survivors created history by setting a World Book of Records (London) record for singing the National Anthem using artificial larynx devices. The rare feat was achieved during Republic Day celebrations at the Basavatarakam Indo American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute.

The participants, aged between 24 and 87 years, accomplished the record in their very first attempt. All of them had undergone complete removal of the larynx due to cancer and were rehabilitated using advanced speech techniques.

Dr Chandrashekar, Head of the Department of Head and Neck Surgery at the hospital, told Deccan Chronicle that over the last decade, around 500 patients had undergone laryngeal surgeries, of whom nearly 200 survived. Many of them later formed a Laryngectomy Club to share experiences, motivate fellow patients, and spread awareness through recorded videos.

“Only patients who had their larynx completely removed were invited for this programme, as partial surgery patients can still speak naturally,” Dr Chandrashekar explained. He said the participants were rehabilitated through esophageal speech, tracheo-esophageal puncture, and electro-larynx devices. “Their collective effort led to the creation of this world record,” he added.

Film actor and Hindupur MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna, Chairman of the hospital, unfurled the National Flag on the occasion and interacted with the cancer survivors, appreciating their courage and determination.

The event stood as a powerful symbol of resilience, medical advancement, and the human spirit, inspiring cancer patients and survivors across the country.

Youth for Seva Hyderabad’s Chiguru 2026 Empowers Children Through Service

Hyderabad: Chiguru 2026, organised by Youth for Seva Hyderabad, concluded successfully, marking yet another milestone in the journey of nurturing confidence, creativity, and inclusion among children.

The event was made possible through the dedicated efforts of volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes—from early morning preparations and seamless coordination to ensuring every child felt supported and encouraged on stage. Their commitment transformed the programme into a memorable experience filled with joy, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging for all participants.

Volunteers played a crucial role in managing the event, solving challenges with quiet determination and celebrating each moment with enthusiasm. Their selfless service ensured that Chiguru 2026 was not just an event, but a meaningful platform that empowered children and created lasting memories.

Youth for Seva Hyderabad expressed heartfelt gratitude to all volunteers, acknowledging that the success of Chiguru 2026 truly belongs to each one of them. The organisation reiterated its commitment to service and community-driven initiatives, looking forward to many more editions of Chiguru in the years to come.

Chiguru continues to stand as a symbol of service, smiles, and collective effort—growing stronger with every edition.

Free CPR Training Camp Held at Gandhi Medical College

Two-Day Community CPR Program Successfully Conducted at Gandhi Medical College
Secunderabad:
Immediate administration of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) can save the life of a person suffering from sudden cardiac arrest, said Dr. G.R. Lingamurthy, President of the Gandhi Medical College (GMC) Alumni Association. He emphasized that timely CPR performed before shifting a patient to the hospital significantly improves survival chances.

Speaking at a media interaction held at the GMC Alumni Education Centre, Dr. Lingamurthy, along with Alumni Director Dr. P. Maheshwar Reddy, Dr. S. Ravinder, and Janahita Seva Trust Managing Trustee S. Narasimha Murthy, highlighted the importance of CPR awareness among the general public.

The Gandhi Medical College Alumni Association, GMC Global Alliance, and Janahita Seva Trust jointly organized a free two-day Community CPR Training Camp on February 1 and 2 at the Alumni Education Centre, Gandhi Medical College. Dr. Lingamurthy stated that for the past 26 years, the Alumni Association has been providing free CPR training to thousands of people. He noted that nearly 92 percent of deaths in India occur due to cardiac arrest, stressing the urgent need for CPR training at the community level.

He explained that CPR knowledge can help save lives at home, workplaces, and public places during emergencies. As part of the camp, a total of 5,000 participants received hands-on CPR training using mannequins, enabling them to learn the correct techniques practically. Certificates were issued to all participants upon completion of the training.

Organizers stated that around 2,000 people underwent CPR training on the first day alone, reflecting the growing public interest in life-saving skills. Citizens from various parts of the city actively participated in the program.

The two-day training camp concluded successfully on February 2. Addressing the participants, Gandhi Medical College Principal Dr. K. Indira said that learning CPR and saving a life also means supporting an entire family. She appreciated the organizers for training 5,000 people free of cost and underlined the importance of such initiatives in reducing preventable deaths due to cardiac arrest.

The program was attended by GMC Vice-Principal Dr. Chandrasekhar, Alumni Association President Dr. G.R. Lingamurthy, Dr. Maheshwar Reddy, Dr. K. Rajasekhar, Dr. Nagarjuna Chakravarthy, Dr. Chaitanya, Dr. Lakshminarayana, Dr. Dennis McAuley, Dr. Rajesh, Dr. Anita, Dr. Rohith, MEPMA In-charge Dr. Sujatha, and representatives of Janahita Seva Trust including Narasimha Murthy, Krishna Reddy, Sridhar, Venkat, Sridevi, Nandakumar, Vasumathi, Rameshwar, and Nursing Rao.