A home is more than its rooms, amenities and design. While these elements create the physical foundation of a residence, the people who live there and the experiences they share are what gradually turn a development into a community. For Prateek Group, this idea is reflected in its approach to residential living, where architecture, craftsmanship, nature, lifestyle and community engagement come together to create experiences that go beyond a physical address.

This philosophy is reflected through Life at Prateek, an initiative built around the belief that the relationship between a developer and its residents can continue well beyond the delivery of a home. Through cultural events, wellness programmes, environmental activities and social gatherings, the initiative creates opportunities for residents to participate, interact and build memories together. The approach places equal importance on how people experience a residential environment and the spaces themselves. Instead of viewing shared areas simply as facilities within a project, the idea is to make them part of everyday community life, where residents can meet, celebrate occasions and develop a stronger connection with their surroundings.

Community experiences form an important part of this approach. Life at Prateek brings residents together through festivals, cultural programmes, national celebrations, wellness sessions and social events. Celebrations such as Lohri Carnival 2026, the Christmas Mela at Prateek Grand City, Independence Day programmes and Togetherness at Prateek Stylome have provided residents with opportunities to gather in common spaces and celebrate together.

Entertainment and family-oriented activities add another layer to these experiences. Live music can create relaxed settings for residents to spend time together, while puppet shows and storytelling sessions for children introduce creativity and learning into the residential environment. Flea markets similarly offer residents an opportunity to explore, interact and meet neighbours outside their usual routines. Over time, these small encounters can help make a residential community feel more familiar and connected.

Nature is another important part of this community experience. At Prateek Grand City, the Harit Ghar initiative encouraged residents to explore vertical and balcony gardening, helping families bring more greenery into their homes. The workshops combined environmental awareness with practical participation, giving residents ideas that could be continued after the programme ended. This approach reflects a broader understanding of how nature can become part of everyday residential life. Rather than being limited to landscaped areas around buildings, greenery can become something residents actively engage with and experience within their own homes.

The Group's project planning also places emphasis on nature-oriented and wellness spaces. At Prateek Canary in Sector 150, Noida, the published plans include landscaped areas, an outdoor reading space, a yoga and meditation lawn and a wellness garden. Such features demonstrate how residential planning can incorporate spaces for recreation, relaxation, reflection and interaction alongside the homes themselves.

The connection between residential design and nature also relates to the concept of biophilia, which describes the natural human inclination to connect with the living world. By incorporating greenery and nature-led spaces into everyday surroundings, residential environments can create a closer relationship between the built environment and nature. In this context, landscaping becomes more than a visual feature and can contribute to the overall experience of living.

Community wellbeing extends beyond recreation and lifestyle activities. As part of its CSR initiatives, Prateek Group, through Prateek Foundation Aakar, organised a COVID-19 vaccination camp at Prateek Edifice in June 2021. The initiative included residents, society staff, Group employees and third-party workers, bringing healthcare support directly into the community. The Group has also organised health camps involving residents, security personnel and workers. Such efforts reflect a wider view of community wellbeing, recognising the different groups of people who contribute to the functioning of a residential environment.

Wellness activities have also encouraged residents to participate collectively. Yoga Day sessions at Prateek Grand City provided residents with an opportunity to come together around health and movement. When combined with gardening activities and other community programmes, such initiatives make personal wellbeing part of the broader community experience. The idea of belonging is not limited to residential spaces. It can also be seen in workplace activities. During its Navratri celebrations, Prateek Group documented an office dandiya evening where employees came together for music and festivities. Such occasions give colleagues an opportunity to interact outside their usual professional responsibilities and add a social dimension to workplace culture.

The underlying idea remains similar: spaces become more meaningful when people have opportunities to share experiences within them. Whether it is an office or a residential development, collective participation can help create a stronger sense of identity and familiarity. Cultural celebrations are particularly relevant in residential communities because they bring together people from different backgrounds, regions and traditions. Events can provide residents with an opportunity to share their own customs while experiencing those of others.

The Uttarayani Mahotsav at Prateek Grand City, where women and children from the community participated in folk performances, is one example of how cultural activities can bring different generations together. Festivals, music programmes, storytelling sessions and national celebrations can create a regular rhythm of participation, helping neighbours become more familiar with one another over time. This is where community living takes on a meaning beyond the physical development. Repeated interactions, shared celebrations and everyday experiences can help residents develop relationships and memories associated with the place they call home.

For Prateek Group, the experience of a home therefore extends beyond possession. It is also shaped by the environment residents encounter every day, the activities they participate in, the people they meet and the memories they create. Thoughtful design and craftsmanship remain central, but they are complemented by nature, greenery, wellness and opportunities for social interaction. Community responsibility is another part of this broader approach. Regular safety drills across Prateek societies encourage residents to participate in preparedness exercises and become familiar with emergency procedures and response protocols. Such activities highlight the importance of awareness and collective responsibility in maintaining a safe and well-connected community.

Together, cultural programmes, wellness initiatives, environmental activities, CSR efforts and resident participation give substance to the idea behind Life at Prateek. They represent an approach in which residential spaces are considered not only in terms of their physical features but also in terms of the experiences they enable. Buildings provide the setting for everyday life, but people give those spaces their identity. The relationships residents develop, the celebrations they share and the experiences they create together can transform a collection of homes into a community. For Prateek Group, this represents a broader vision of fine living—one that brings together thoughtful spaces, nature, wellbeing, meaningful experiences and a lasting sense of belonging.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.

Footwear in India has always been more than a basic necessity. From ancient wooden sandals to handcrafted juttis, mojaris and Kolhapuri chappals, shoes and sandals have quietly recorded the country’s cultural evolution, social changes and artistic traditions. Often overlooked in discussions about heritage, footwear offers a unique glimpse into India’s history through the materials, designs and craftsmanship passed down across generations.

For centuries, Indian footwear has reflected the lifestyle and identity of different communities. The country’s diverse geography and climate played an important role in shaping footwear styles. While some regions developed lightweight sandals suitable for hot weather, others created durable designs meant for agriculture, travel and daily labour. Over time, these practical creations evolved into cultural symbols.

One of the oldest examples of Indian footwear is the paduka, a simple wooden sandal associated with ancient spiritual traditions. Worn by sages and religious figures, the paduka represented simplicity and detachment from material comforts. Its presence in Indian literature, art and religious traditions highlights the importance footwear has held beyond everyday use.

As kingdoms flourished, footwear became a part of royal fashion and craftsmanship. Traditional designs such as mojaris and juttis gained popularity among royal families and aristocratic communities. Skilled artisans decorated these shoes with embroidery, colourful threads and detailed patterns, transforming them into pieces of wearable art. These styles later became closely associated with weddings, festivals and cultural celebrations.

The story of Indian footwear is also a story of regional diversity. The Kolhapuri chappal, known for its handmade leather work and durability, emerged from the Maharashtra-Karnataka region and became popular among rural communities because of its comfort and practicality. Over the years, it moved beyond its traditional roots and found a place in contemporary fashion, with designers incorporating its classic style into modern collections.

Handcrafted juttis from Punjab and Rajasthan continue to represent India’s artistic heritage. Their bright colours, intricate embroidery and traditional designs have made them popular not only within India but also among international audiences interested in ethnic fashion. Beyond fashion, footwear has also reflected India’s social and economic history. The making of traditional footwear created livelihoods for artisan communities that developed specialised skills over generations. From selecting materials to stitching and decorating each pair, the process represents years of knowledge and craftsmanship.

The survival of these traditions faces challenges in the modern era. Machine-made footwear, changing consumer preferences and limited opportunities for artisans have created pressure on traditional crafts. Many craftsmen are now adapting by combining traditional techniques with modern designs to reach wider markets. The renewed interest in sustainable fashion has also brought attention back to handmade Indian footwear. Consumers are increasingly looking for products that have cultural value, support local craftsmanship and offer an alternative to mass-produced goods.

Today, Indian footwear stands at the intersection of history and innovation. Traditional designs are appearing on fashion runways, online marketplaces and global platforms, proving that heritage crafts can continue to evolve without losing their identity. Every pair of traditional Indian shoes carries a story — of artisans, communities, regions and generations that shaped its journey. While footwear may seem like a small part of everyday life, in India it has become a living record of the nation’s cultural past and its changing present. From ancient pathways to modern streets, these footsteps continue to tell the story of India.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.

India’s approach to wildlife conservation should evolve beyond the traditional “man versus wild” mindset, with experts calling for a more inclusive model that combines technology, financial security and community participation to protect ecosystems. For decades, conservation efforts have often focused on creating protected areas and restricting human activities around forests to safeguard wildlife. While this approach has played an important role in protecting endangered species, experts believe that modern environmental challenges require a broader strategy that considers both ecological needs and human realities.

The idea behind the changing conservation philosophy is that humans and wildlife do not always have to be seen as opponents. Instead, experts suggest that conservation efforts should focus on creating a balance where local communities, economic development and environmental protection can progress together.

India’s forests support a large population of people who rely on natural resources for their livelihoods. Completely separating communities from forests can sometimes create challenges, especially when people face restrictions without alternative sources of income. Conservation specialists believe that providing economic opportunities to these communities can encourage greater participation in protecting biodiversity.

Technology is emerging as one of the most important tools in this transformation. Artificial intelligence, satellite-based monitoring, drones, camera traps and digital tracking systems are helping authorities collect accurate information about wildlife and ecosystems. These technologies are being used to monitor animal movements, detect illegal activities, identify changes in forest cover and improve responses to human-wildlife conflicts. Experts believe that the use of advanced tools can make conservation efforts more efficient while reducing pressure on both wildlife and local communities.

Financial stability is also becoming a key part of conservation discussions. Experts argue that protecting forests cannot be separated from improving the economic conditions of people living near them. Sustainable tourism, environmentally friendly businesses, forest-based industries and alternative livelihood programmes can help communities benefit from conservation rather than viewing it as a restriction.

Several successful conservation efforts have shown that local communities can become important partners in protecting nature. Traditional knowledge about forests and wildlife, when combined with scientific research and modern technology, can create stronger and more practical conservation solutions.

India’s growing population, rapid urban expansion and infrastructure development have increased pressure on natural habitats. As the country continues to pursue economic growth, experts say conservation policies must find ways to protect biodiversity without ignoring social and economic realities.

The future of wildlife protection may not depend on choosing between humans and nature but on finding ways for both to coexist. A conservation model built on innovation, technology and community involvement could offer a more sustainable path for India’s forests and wildlife. Experts believe the goal should no longer be a battle between “man and wild” but a partnership where protecting nature also helps secure the future of people who live alongside it.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.

Chinese New Year celebrations are set to get even more exciting as River Hongbao marks its 40th anniversary this year. The iconic event will bring a range of lantern displays and activities to Gardens by the Bay from February 15 to 24, all free for visitors. One of the highlights is the return of River Hongbao’s fireworks display, which hasn’t been seen since 2020. The show will feature vibrant, choreographed bursts of color, with timings at 8 pm on February 15, midnight on Chinese New Year’s Eve (February 16), and 9 pm on the first two days of Chinese New Year (February 17 and 18) at The Meadow.

In addition, a special 40th anniversary exhibition will showcase the history of River Hongbao through photos, videos, lanterns, and interactive elements. Committee member Pok Cheng Chong shared that the exhibit allows visitors to “walk through River Hongbao’s journey” and even write down their wishes for future events. Having joined the committee in 2023, Cheng Chong said he is especially excited about this milestone, which celebrates 40 years of growth and evolution.

The anniversary will also feature special lantern installations. The Welcome Arch at The Meadow, shaped like the number 40 and decorated with floral designs representing spring and new beginnings, greets visitors as they enter. Another installation, Galloping into the Year of the Horse, draws inspiration from the Mandarin expression wan ma ben teng (thousands of horses galloping), symbolizing prosperity and success, with a backdrop of HDB flats designed as a scroll to blend tradition with modern life.

Returning favorites include the towering God of Fortune lantern, symbolizing luck and blessings. This year, it holds a Ruyi sceptre, representing power and wish-granting, and a bundle of cabbage, which in Mandarin (bao cai) sounds like “wrapping up fortune.” Complementing the River Hongbao festivities, Gardens by the Bay’s Flower Dome will host Spring Blossoms: Gallop into Prosperity from January 16 to March 1. The display features eight life-sized horse lanterns set among plum blossoms, orchids, chrysanthemums, and bamboo — known as the “Four Gentlemen” of Chinese art — inspired by the classic ink painting Ba Jun Tu and the serene Jiangnan Gardens.

River Hongbao 2026 will also feature live performances by local artists and cultural troupes, movie screenings by director Jack Neo’s J Team Productions, and family-friendly amusement rides at the Supertree Grove, including a double-story horse carousel, Flying Dumbo, and carnival games, with tickets required for rides. The event takes place at Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore, with opening hours from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm on February 15, 6:30 pm to 12:15 am on February 16, and 2:30 pm to 10:30 pm from February 17 to 24.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from AsiaOne.

When Jackson Pollock created Blue Poles, one of the defining works of American abstract expressionism, he could hardly have imagined that the painting would later become the centre of a major cultural and political debate in Australia. The artwork drew the attention of figures ranging from former prime minister Gough Whitlam to the Shah of Iran before ultimately finding a home at Canberra’s National Gallery, where it came to represent Australia’s growing embrace of modern art and cultural ambition. As Blue Poles prepares to move from Canberra to Perth, Guardian Australia political editor Tom McIlroy joins Rafqa Touma to explore the remarkable intersection of art, politics and national identity surrounding the painting. Their discussion draws on McIlroy’s book, Blue Poles: Jackson Pollock, Gough Whitlam and the Painting That Changed a Nation, which examines how one American artwork became deeply woven into Australia’s cultural and political history.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.

A new survey by TOUCH Community Services found that although six in 10 parents reported that their children had faced mental health challenges, only about one in six believed these issues were moderately or directly connected to their online experiences. Hairianto Diman and Justine Modd examine what parents may be overlooking and explore ways to better support children as they navigate the digital world. They also speak with Dr Chew Han Ei, an online safety researcher at the Institute of Policy Studies, about the issue.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

Every Wednesday and Friday throughout August, we’re revisiting some of the standout audio long reads from 2026, giving listeners another chance to experience stories they may have missed. Each feature is accompanied by a note from our editorial team explaining why it earned a place among this year’s highlights. This edition revisits a story first published in February, chronicling one writer’s decades-long search for answers to a mysterious illness before finally receiving a diagnosis. The piece also explores whether techniques aimed at retraining the brain could offer a path toward recovery.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian. 

In this edition of Made in SG, Melanie Oliveiro spotlights W Optics, a Singapore-based vision care specialist and optical retail chain. W Optics CEO Jonathan Wong shares the company's journey, explaining how his father, Francis Wong, founded the business and eventually entrusted him with leading its next phase of growth. Joining the discussion is senior optometrist and manager Oh Shwu Ji, who offers insights into common eye health concerns while highlighting the latest trends in eyewear design and prescription glasses.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.