On the occasion of World Cancer Awareness Day, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC) hosted a Women’s Health Awareness Program to emphasize the importance of early detection, screening and cancer prevention. The event was graced by Hon. Neelamatai Gorhe, Deputy Chairperson of the Maharashtra Legislative Council and Mrs Pradnya Gokhale, President of the Inner Wheel Club of Nashik. The event concluded with an insightful session led by Dr Raj Nagarkar, focusing on cancer awareness, prevention strategies and advancements in treatment. This was followed by an interactive Q&A, enabling attendees to pose questions and gain expert guidance on cancer-related concerns.

Dr. Raj Nagarkar ( Centre) interacts with members & staff of Bytco Hospital.

“Cancer awareness is crucial in reducing mortality rates and improving survival outcomes. Early detection and timely intervention can save countless lives. We are honoured to have esteemed leaders and organizations join us in this initiative, reinforcing our shared commitment to empowering women with knowledge and proactive healthcare solutions,” says Prof Dr Raj Nagarkar – MD & Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic Services, HCGMCC.

The event also featured cancer survivors and patients, who courageously shared their personal journeys, offering hope, strength and inspiration to others facing similar challenges. Their stories served as a beacon of resilience and determination, reinforcing the importance of early detection and timely treatment.

“To make the event more engaging and impactful, we had arranged interactive activities including motivational songs to uplift spirits and inspire hope among attendees. Games to encourage participation and foster a sense of community, helping everyone connect and share experiences,” adds Dr Nagarkar.

In collaboration with Insnapsys Technology, the event featured a special initiative led by CEO Mr Manoj Milani, whose team presented tokens of love to cancer patients, offering them encouragement and motivation as they navigate their treatment journey. Additionally, members of the CGHS Pensioners Association participated in a facility tour of the hospital, followed by a dedicated health talk, providing them with valuable insights into cancer care, prevention and advanced treatment options.

“The program was more than just an awareness initiative; it was a movement toward proactive healthcare. By combining expert insights, survivor stories and interactive engagement, we aimed to create an environment where women feel empowered to prioritize their health. At HCGMCC, we remain committed to delivering world-class care and promoting a culture of prevention and early detection,” concludes Dr Nagarkar.

As part of the awareness initiative, HCGMCC organized a Walkathon Rally in collaboration with Bytco Hospital and Nashik Surgical Society to raise cancer awareness. The event saw enthusiastic participation from members and staff of HHBT Hospital, NUHM, IMA and the Rotary Club of Nashik Road, reinforcing the collective commitment toward early detection, prevention and treatment.

As the world prepares to welcome 2025, Approach Bollywood, India’s leading Bollywood and Entertainment Newswire and App, has joined hands with Go Spiritual, a renowned spiritual organization, to launch a life-saving campaign against drunk driving. The initiative, titled “Aaj Mere Paas Gadi Hai,” is a call for responsible celebrations, emphasizing the importance of making safer choices during the festive season.

The campaign, which will run across social media platforms until January 1, 2025, harnesses the power of Bollywood to deliver its message. Drawing inspiration from the iconic line in Deewar, where Amitabh Bachchan’s character proudly declares, “Aaj mere paas gaadi hai, bangla hai, bank balance hai,” the campaign cleverly adapts it to say, “Even then, I don’t drink and drive.”

Adding to its creative narrative, the campaign also incorporates the legendary dialogue from Kanoon, “Kanoon ke haath bahut lambe hote hain.” This iconic line serves as a stern reminder of the legal consequences of drunk driving. It emphasizes that no one is above the law and that reckless behavior can result in severe penalties, urging people to act responsibly during the festive season.

This creative approach leverages Bollywood’s cultural influence to resonate deeply with audiences, merging the glamour of cinema with a critical social message. Another memorable example from the campaign incorporates the famous advice Veeru gives Basanti in Sholay, “Don’t dance in front of these dogs.” Reinterpreted, it urges people to avoid creating chaos by drinking and driving, stating: “Don’t drink, drive, or create a scene.”

Sonu Tyagi, the founder of Approach Entertainment & Go Spiritual and a celebrated writer-director, highlighted the urgency of addressing drunk driving, especially during New Year’s celebrations. He stated, “New Year’s Eve is a time of joy and celebration, but it is also one of the most dangerous nights on the road due to intoxicated driving. Through this campaign, we aim to save lives by raising awareness and promoting responsible behavior. Bollywood has an unparalleled ability to connect with people, and by blending its charm with a crucial social message, we hope to make a lasting impact.”

Approach Bollywood, established under the banner of Approach Entertainment, has consistently leveraged its platform to drive awareness and inspire positive change. Known for its authentic and comprehensive coverage of Bollywood, entertainment, and media, Approach Entertainment is also making waves in film production, with its maiden Hindi feature film set to go for production in 2025 under the direction of Sonu Tyagi.

Additionally, Approach Bollywood has launched an exclusive smartphone app catering to Bollywood and entertainment enthusiasts. The app provides users with breaking news, in-depth industry insights, exclusive celebrity content, and updates on films, TV, OTT, music, and entertainment. This innovation complements the newswire’s commitment to being the ultimate destination for Bollywood lovers.

Go Spiritual, the campaign’s partner, is a charitable organization dedicated to promoting spirituality, mental health, wellness, and philanthropy. Through its various initiatives, including spiritual tourism, media, and social awareness programs, Go Spiritual has been at the forefront of advocating for a more mindful and harmonious society. This collaboration with Approach Bollywood reflects a shared commitment to making a meaningful societal impact.

As Approach Bollywood and Go Spiritual champion the message of “Don’t Drink and Drive,” they remind everyone that celebrations should be joyous and not marred by preventable tragedies. With their combined efforts, the campaign aims to inspire a cultural shift toward safer, more mindful festivities, ensuring that the dawn of 2025 is filled with hope and happiness.

Approach Entertainment Group, the parent company of Approach Bollywood, continues to lead the way in Celebrity Management, Film Productions, Advertising, Corporate Films, and Entertainment Marketing. With a presence across major Indian cities, the group is dedicated to using its platforms to drive meaningful change. Meanwhile, Go Spiritual remains committed to its mission of fostering spiritual awareness, philanthropy, and holistic well-being, further solidifying its role as a force for positive transformation.

As the clock ticks closer to midnight on December 31, let us all resolve to make safer choices. A single decision to refrain from drinking and driving can save countless lives, ensuring that the New Year begins on a note of safety, joy, and responsibility.

The 2nd Edition of the Future Health Conclave & Excellence Awards, organized by Aristocrat Media, concluded successfully at The Ginger Hotel Airport in Mumbai. The event marked a significant milestone in the healthcare industry’s journey toward innovation, collaboration, and sustainable progress. With the theme “Sustainable Healthcare 2.0: Harnessing AI, Digital Health, and Innovation for a Smarter Future,” the conclave brought together global visionaries, healthcare leaders, and innovators to explore transformative solutions shaping the future of healthcare.

This mega event garnered strong support from esteemed partners, amplifying its impact and significance within the healthcare sector. SGCCI, GCCI, and Feather Touch lent their backing as supporting partners, while SiliconIndia joined as the online media partner and Healthcare Radius as the magazine partner. Indian Healthcare Angels contributed as the outreach partner, and Gift Kya De elevated the event experience as the gifting partner. Gravitas AI served as the AI partner, further emphasizing the event’s technological focus.

Notable exhibitors included industry pioneers such as Redicine, Inion VR, Livconnect AI, Artpart Studio, and Molbio Diagnostics, showcasing innovative solutions and advancements in healthcare. Approach Entertainment played a vital role as the PR partner, ensuring widespread engagement and visibility, while Go Spiritual brought a unique dimension as the spiritual partner, underscoring the importance of holistic wellness. These valued collaborations enriched the conclave’s reach and influence, making it a landmark event in the healthcare domain.

The event commenced with a thought-provoking keynote address by Dr. Ashok Kumar Bhattacharya, a globally renowned health and pharma consultant and former Executive Director of Takeda Pharmaceuticals. Titled “Building the Future: Strategies for Affordable, Sustainable Smart Hospitals in the Digital Health Era,” Dr. Bhattacharya’s keynote set the tone for an inspiring day, offering deep insights into leveraging innovative strategies for sustainability in healthcare. His address resonated strongly with the audience, underlining the critical importance of balancing affordability with advanced technological integration.

The agenda featured a series of insightful standalone presentations. Sudhamoy Khasnobis, Founder and Chairman of LifeUno Ventures, delivered a compelling session on “Capacity Building in Healthcare,” emphasizing the urgent need to enhance healthcare infrastructure to address emerging challenges. Dr. Chandrasekhar Nair, CTO of Molbio Diagnostics, highlighted the transformative potential of digital health in his presentation, “Digital Health Transformation: Bridging Gaps in Healthcare Delivery.” These sessions underscored the pivotal role of innovation in improving healthcare accessibility and quality.

Dynamic panel discussions further enriched the event. The first panel, titled “The Impact of Smart Hospitals and Digital Health in the Era of AI and Innovation,” featured prominent speakers such as Dr. Ahmad S. Mecklai, MD of AAA HealthCare and AAA BNK Healthcare Design Build Pvt. Ltd. The panel included key contributors like Joy Chakraborty, COO of Hinduja Hospital, who addressed operational advancements; Dr. Anuj Tiwari, Group CEO of Sparsh Healthcare, who emphasized patient-centric technological adoption; Dr. Clive Fernandes, SVP at Wockhardt Hospitals, who discussed the integration of clinical excellence; and Dr. Nisha Bhatnagar, Medical Director of Aveya Fertility & IVF Centre, who provided insights into advancements in fertility care. The discussion offered a comprehensive view of how AI and digital innovation are revolutionizing healthcare delivery.

The second panel, “Role of AI and Innovation,” brought together industry stalwarts such as Aarsh Srivastava, CEO and Co-Founder of Gravitas AI, who explored the application of AI in clinical settings. Dr. Arnab Roy, Clinical Director at Philips Healthcare, elaborated on the clinical benefits of AI, while Shamanth S. N., Director at Rakuten India, shared perspectives on leveraging technology for operational excellence. Dr. Chetan Gharat, Head of Medical Services at Lupin Digital Health, discussed cutting-edge digital health solutions, and Yaduvendra Singh, DPDP Advisor, provided insights into AI’s role in navigating regulatory landscapes.

The third panel, “Human-Centered Healthcare,” moderated by Hiral Sarin, Head of Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital & Research Centre, focused on the importance of compassion and equity in AI-powered care. The panel featured Lt. Col. (Dr.) Tarapranav Bhattacharya, Associate Director at Noble Hospitals & Research Centre, who advocated for patient privacy, and Dr. Manish Kumar Rai from Terna Speciality Hospital & Research Centre, who highlighted the significance of equitable healthcare delivery. Dr. Arundhati Pande Laturkar, an ophthalmologist at Symbiosis Medical College for Women, emphasized the need for ethical AI integration.

The Future Health Excellence Awards 2024 celebrated outstanding contributions to the healthcare industry. Organizations and individuals were honored for their exemplary work in integrating technology, fostering innovation, and improving patient care. Highlights included Zenzo Healthcare receiving recognition for the best integration of technology in ambulance services, Aveya Fertility being celebrated for excellence in IVF and reproductive healthcare, and Gravitas AI earning accolades as the best AI and blockchain company in healthcare. Individual awards acknowledged leaders such as Sudhamoy Khasnobis as the Visionary Leader in Healthcare, Dr. Anupam Karmakar as CEO of the Year, and Dr. Anuj Tiwari as Healthcare Personality of the Year.

Farooq Shaikh, Founder of Aristocrat Media, expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm for the event’s success, stating, “The 2nd Edition of the Future Health Conclave & Awards 2024 has truly exemplified our vision of fostering innovation, collaboration, and excellence in the healthcare sector. This platform is a testament to the transformative power of bringing together thought leaders, industry pioneers, and technological innovators to address the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of healthcare. We are deeply thankful to our partners and participants whose contributions have been instrumental in making this event a landmark gathering for the industry. At Aristocrat Media, we remain committed to driving meaningful conversations and initiatives that advance healthcare for a smarter and more sustainable future.”

In a ground-breaking medical success, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC) marked a significant milestone by successfully performing three complex stem cell transplants simultaneously. For the first time, three patients, a female aged 52 years and two males aged 37 and 33 years were admitted on October 28, 2024, and discharged together on December 1, 2024, all with smiles on their faces. The first female patient, diagnosed with multiple myeloma and chronic kidney disease, underwent a critical autologous stem cell transplant. The Second patient diagnosed with relapsed/refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma underwent successful autologous Stem Cell Transplant and the third patient, battling high-risk leukaemia, underwent a complex half-match allogeneic transplant.

Dr Priyatesh Dwivedi

The transplant for all three patients was successfully conducted by Dr Priyatesh Dwivedi, Hemato-oncology and BMT Specialist, along with his dedicated team. This accomplishment adds another milestone for HCG Manavata Cancer Centre, which now boasts a remarkable record of 26 successful transplants within just 24 months.

“An autologous stem cell transplant involves harvesting a patient’s own stem cells and re-infusing them after intensive chemotherapy or radiation. For our first patient, this procedure was particularly complex due to significantly elevated creatinine levels, increasing the risk of acute kidney injury. However, with meticulous planning and the application of Modified Protocols, we successfully overcame these challenges, achieving a positive outcome,” says Dr Priyatesh Dwivedi.

The second transplant was complicated because of poor stem cell yield after the first stem cell harvest. Typically, at least two million stem cells are required for stem cell transplant but, only 0.86 million stem cells could be harvested. After the first stem cell collection, predicting poor stem cell yield during the second stem cell harvest, Dr Priyatesh Dwivedi used a novel modified chemo mobilisation procedure instead of going for a second stem cell harvest. With this chemo mobilisation procedure, adequate stem cell were harvested and successful transplant was done.

“Our second patient, a relapsed or refractory lymphoma case with chronic hepatitis B, encountered significant challenges during the initial stem cell mobilization, which failed to yield sufficient Stem cells for transplantation. Through a specialized chemo-mobilization procedure, we successfully collected the adequate stem cells. Similarly, the third patient presented a high-risk leukaemia case with heightened dangers of graft rejection and graft-versus-host disease and underwent successful half match transplant. Despite these complexities, we successfully performed these transplants with the team’s expertise and determination,” adds Dr Dwivedi.

“The achievement reflects our commitment to providing advanced medical care with precision and compassion. Successfully completing three transplants, including a critical half-match procedure, is a testament to the skill and dedication of our multidisciplinary team,” concludes Dr Raj Nagarkar, MD & Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic Services, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC).

About HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC): –

Established in 2007 by Dr Raj Nagarkar, HCGMCC – Nashik is Central India’s first NABH-accredited facility. With over 50 consultant oncologists, 900 staff members and a 275-bed capacity, HCGMCC is a leading institution, offering holistic cancer treatment. Specializing in surgical, radiation and medical oncology, the centre has conducted 65,000 surgeries, including 1,100 plus robotic-assisted procedures. Patient-centric and multidisciplinary, HCGMCC recommends treatments to individual needs. Beyond clinical excellence, the centre’s financial aid programs underscore its commitment to accessibility and community well-being, redefining cancer care in the pursuit of a cancer-free future.

On the auspicious occasion of Deepawali, renowned table tennis player Nitesh Kumavat launched his new sports shop ‘Winner Sports & Fitness’ at Prathamesh Leela Society in new MHB Colony, Borivali (West).

TT Players Mr. Gomes, Ulhas, Santosh, Siddhi & Pranjal at the launch of new Sports shop in Borivali West by Nitesh Kumavat ( Centre) .

Nitesh who is a self made person, already owns one sports shop at Kasturba Cross Road in Borivali East, but he felt that the fastest growing Western part of Borivali had more potential for flourishing his business. His father is into tiles business; but, Nitesh preferred his own field, as he is really passionate about sports activity. Out of his busy schedule, he does find time daily for his TT practice. Incidentally, during the MCF Premier TT League few months ago, Nitesh had played for Team magzmumbai.

Nitesh Kumavat ( 2nd from L)being greeted by Mahesh Shetye( Ext. L) TT player and former Chief Manager , Bank of Baroda, TT player Sanjeev Dandavate & rising TT Star Sagar Kasture.

Many of his friends from table tennis fraternity, were personally present during the opening ceremony of his new outlet. Speaking about expanding his business and need for opening this new shop, Nitesh said, “There is a lot of demand for sports goods in this area and therefore after making a survey, I decided to open this new shop here. ‘Winner Sports & Fitness’ are specialised in Cricket kit bags, badminton, table tennis ,Football, Hockey ,Tennis, Pickleball equipments; besides fitness provisions.

Nashik’s leading cancerspeciality hospital – HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC) is hosting a special event titled ‘Pink Mela’ as part of its Breast Cancer Awareness Month initiatives at the hospital on 26^th October 2024. Aimed at raising awareness about the increasing cases of breast cancer, the event offers free consultations along with live demonstration for women above the age of 20 years. A dedicated team of doctors will be available to review medical histories, including any breast cancer or other relevant conditions, and conduct physical examinations, if necessary. In addition, the hospital is offering mammography tests at a reduced fee of Rs.550/- as against the regular fee of Rs.7150/- for the month.

“Breast cancer accounts for nearly 30 percent of all cancers among women in India, making it the most common cancer affecting women in the country. The risk of breast cancer increases with age, particularly for women in their 50s and 60s. Unfortunately, most cases are detected at a later stage due to a lack of awareness and early screening programs. With Pink Mela, we aim to raise awareness about breast cancer and educate women on the preventive measures they can take to reduce the risk. Pink Mela attendees are three times more likely to schedule their regular check-ups. I encourage as many women as possible to attend,” says Dr Raj Nagarkar, MD & Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic Services, HCGMCC.

Breast cancer is a disease that begins in the cells of the breast, where they grow and multiply uncontrollably, forming a mass or lump. While breast cancer primarily affects women, men can also develop it. Recently, Dr Raj Nagarkar achieved a milestone in breast cancer surgery by performing the world’s first robotic-assisted nipple-sparing mastectomy (RNSM).

“Several factors, including late pregnancies, family history, hormonal changes and lifestyle habits like smoking and high stress, can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. With its growing prevalence, it’s essential to promote awareness and regular screenings to combat this health crisis. Early detection increases the chances of survival by 80 per cent. The Pink Mela aims to empower women through preventive care and routine check-ups, particularly for those at higher risk,” concludes Dr Nagarkar.