Tag: Sudha Murty

  • Sadak Suraksha Abhiyan 2024: “Samvedana ka Safar” highlights a holistic approach to road safety

    Sadak Suraksha Abhiyan 2024: “Samvedana ka Safar” highlights a holistic approach to road safety

    Mumbai: The Sadak Suraksha Abhiyan 2024: “Samvedana ka Safar”, spearheaded by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) under the esteemed leadership of the minister Nitin Gadkari, culminated in a four-hour telethon, leaving a lasting mark on India’s road safety landscape. Partnering with the SaveLIFE Foundation (SLF), a leading non-profit organisation in India dedicated to improving road safety and emergency medical care in India since 2008, the initiative emphasized ‘empathy’ as its core theme, urging responsible behavior and respect for life on the roads.

    The minister shared his personal experience, highlighting the critical need for change. Nitin Gadkari stated, “In our country, around 500,000 accidents occur every year and in 2022 the loss of lives stood at 168,000 with 450,000 people getting injured. While we continue to improve road and vehicular engineering, this campaign aims to foster collaboration and empathy among road users to drive behaviour change.”

    SaveLIFE Foundation founder and CEO Piyush Tewari emphasised the impact of the campaign, saying, “Road crashes pose a significant public health challenge in India. Effectively conveying the safety message to the public, fostering empathy, and promoting a profound respect for life is essential. The Sadak Suraksha Abhiyan stands out as a pioneering initiative in this crucial endeavor, and SaveLIFE Foundation is proud to lend support for the cause.”

    The telethon featured eminent personalities, including Nitin Gadkari and Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan. Leading actors Pankaj Tripathi and R Madhavan were also an integral part of the campaign along with celebrated singer and composer Shankar Mahadevan; chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification, Prasoon Joshi; and author and philanthropist, Sudha Murty. The launch of the Sadak Suraksha Anthem by Shankar Mahadevan, with lyrics by Prasoon Joshi, resonated with the campaign’s foundational pillars – respect, patience, safety, and collaboration.

    Amitabh Bachchan stressed the need for collective action, stating, “Every day, 460 Indians lose their lives in road accidents, which amounted to a staggering 19 deaths every hour. As a nation, we need to work together to prevent these accidents, just like we fought the Covid-19 pandemic.”

    Network 18 (broadcast) and MD A+E networks CEO Avinash Kaul emphasised, “The Sadak Suraksha Abhiyan 2024 has revealed significant findings regarding road safety. As a nation, we must work together to prevent road accidents and work towards creating a culture of responsibility and safety.”

    The telethon also served as a significant platform for accident victims to share their personal experiences, thereby humanizing the statistics and highlighting the need for urgent action.

    Network 18 CEO (digital) & president – corporate strategy Puneet Singhvi stated, “The Sadak Suraksha Abhiyan 2024: “Samvedana ka Safar” initiative is a commendable and collaborative effort to promote road safety in India. As the 2024 edition concludes, let us make a commitment to make responsible choices, embrace empathy and compassion, and ensure safer roads.”

    The telethon also brought to light the Supreme Court’s resolute stance on mandatory emergency care at hospitals and stressed the importance of integrating road safety education into school curriculums. While the “Samvedana ka Safar” journey concludes, its impact will continue to resonate in the ongoing endeavors to make Indian roads safer for all. The multifaceted discussions and the powerful anthem pave the way for a safer and more compassionate India on the road.

    Embed link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_WfrjvoVCE

  • Celebrate Children’s Day with Audible for screen-free storytelling joy!

    Celebrate Children’s Day with Audible for screen-free storytelling joy!

    Mumbai: Children’s Day is a day of celebrating the boundless creativity of young minds. In today’s digital age, it’s crucial to rekindle the magic of screen-free storytelling for kids. Think of it as ‘edu-tainment’ – education meets entertainment. Authors like Ruskin Bond, Sudha Murthy, R.K. Narayan, and more have brought their timeless tales to platforms like Audible, making it easier than ever to set on literary journeys. So, this Children’s Day, why not introduce our little ones to the sphere of audio-based learning? We have put together some brilliant titles that will transport your children to exciting adventures, teaching them valuable life lessons, and kindling their love for words in the most entertaining way possible!

    The Great Train Journey

    Written by: Ruskin Bond; Narrated by: Ranvijay Pratap Singh

    ‘The Great Train Journey’ by Ruskin Bond is a fantastic audiobook for kids. It’s all about the magic of train adventures, from dragons emerging from tunnels to meeting interesting people on the journey. Join one of India’s greatest storytellers as he takes you on a fun ride through small-town India and its Great Train Journey!

    Great Stories for Children

    Written by: Ruskin Bond; Narrated by: Adnan Kapadia

    With its diverse tales of adventure, humour, and the supernatural, this audiobook makes for a perfect choice to spark a child’s imagination and entertain them through engaging storytelling. It is a potpourri of short stories that effectively transports young listeners to the fascinating world of its characters – including Tutu the monkey; a pet python who makes sudden appearances at the most unusual places; Himalayan bears who feast on pumpkins, plums and apricots; a crafty thief who has a change of heart; and Ruskin Bond himself, who meets a ghost at a resort in the middle of the night.

    How the Sea Became Salty

    Written by: Sudha Murty; Narrated by: Neha Faraz, Sumit Kritarth

    ‘How the Sea Became Salty,’ by India’s beloved storyteller Sudha Murthy, is a delightful children’s audiobook. Her tales often carry a moral lesson, encouraging young minds to reflect on the values and principles that guide human behaviour. This audiobook offers an opportunity for young readers to learn important life lessons in an engaging manner. Through Sudha Murthy’s wit and simplicity, the timeless tale comes alive, making it the perfect introduction for children to her magical world of stories in an immersive audio format.

    Grandparents’ Bag of Stories

    Written by: Sudha Murty; Narrated by: Poonam Srivastav

    Set against the backdrop of the 2020 lockdown, the story revolves around the experiences of children as they stay with their loving grandparents, Ajja and Ajji, in Shiggaon. It is a beautifully crafted audiobook that provides a perfect escape for children during challenging times. It combines the magic of storytelling with the wisdom of generations. This one is an un-put-down-able audiobook that is a must-have for every child’s audio library.

    Maalgudi Ki Kahaniyan [Stories of Malgudi]

    Written by: R.K. Narayan; Narrated by: Toshi Sinha

    In this audiobook, the narrator takes the audience on a journey through the picturesque and culturally rich village of Malgudi, providing an immersive experience filled with the sights and sounds of rural South India. It is a fantastic choice for children and even adults interested in the world of Indian literature, with a collection of short stories. These tales transport listeners to a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the diverse lives and experiences of the village’s inhabitants, including astrologers, postmen, doctors, beggars, and priests.

    The Vedas and Upanishads for Children

    Written by: Roopa Pai; Narrated by: Sharanya Gopinath

    It takes young readers on a journey back 3000 years to the depths of Indian forests, where brilliant philosopher-scientists pondered questions about the universe and human existence. This audiobook introduces kids to the age-old questions about the universe, perception, and identity, as explored by the great philosopher-scientists of ancient India. It’s an engaging and thought-provoking guide to the Vedas and Upanishads, making these timeless teachings accessible and enjoyable for young minds.

    A Children’s History of India

    Written by: Subhadra Sen Gupta; Narrated by: Manisha Sethi

    From the ancient cities of Harappa to the Mughal era, the British rule, and India’s independence, this book provides a comprehensive look at the nation’s history. It is an engaging and informative exploration of India’s rich past, taking readers on a captivating journey through time. 

  • Sudha Murty’s literary works come to life in an animated series available to all

    Sudha Murty’s literary works come to life in an animated series available to all

    Mumbai: Murty Media, a content production house, is embarking on an initiative to turn the literary works of the renowned author and philanthropist, Sudha Murty, into a captivating animated series titled, ‘Story Time with Sudha Amma.’ The show will feature 52 of the most popular stories from Murty’s titles, ‘Grandma’s Bag of Stories’, ‘Grandparents’ Bag of Stories’, and ‘The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories.’ The show will be streamed on the YouTube channel, ‘Murty Media’, a dedicated platform to showcase stories by the beloved author.  

    Infosys Foundation founder and the current chairperson of Murty Trust, Sudha Murty, is a celebrated Indian author, known for her engaging storytelling that taps into India’s rich cultural heritage while addressing contemporary issues. Her heart-warming children’s stories, including ‘Grandparents’ Bag of Stories’, ‘Gopi Diaries’, and others have enjoyed remarkable success. Her stories resonate with readers of all ages and have garnered a global fanbase. The animated series “Story Time with Sudha Amma” will be launched in 6 languages – Hindi, English, Marathi, Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu, catering to a diverse audience and making these beloved stories accessible to a wider spectrum of viewers.

    Speaking about the launch of the series, Murty Media president Aparna Krishnan and the creative brains behind the animated series said, “We are thrilled to launch ‘Story Time with Sudha Amma’ on a platform like YouTube because it democratizes access to content. Mrs. Murty’s stories have the right mix of entertainment and meaningful life lessons. Our hope is that kids and families everywhere will watch and enjoy this values-based show.”

    Sharing her thoughts, Murty said, “I have always believed in the power of stories to inspire and educate. I am delighted that this show has the potential to reach many more young hearts and minds.”

    ‘Story Time with Sudha Amma’ is Murty Media’s flagship animation series. To bring these stories to life, Murty Media has appointed Cosmos Maya, Asia’s leading animation studio, as its animation partner. Talking about the collaboration, Megha Tata, CEO, Cosmos Maya, shared her thoughts, stating, “We are thrilled to be part of this project that will bring Mrs. Sudha Murty’s engaging tales to a global audience. These stories will inspire and captivate viewers in multiple languages, fostering a love for storytelling and lifelong learning. Launching these stories on YouTube will make them available to a wider audience who can be inspired and educated through the life lessons embedded in Mrs. Murty’s books.” 

  • Canara HSBC Life Insurance concludes ‘Depend on Insurance’ season four with Kirron Kher

    Canara HSBC Life Insurance concludes ‘Depend on Insurance’ season four with Kirron Kher

    Mumbai: Canara HSBC Life Insurance concludes the fourth season of ‘Depend on Insurance’, a digital series that brings forth heart-warming and inspirational stories from veteran actor Kirron Kher. The series drew inspiration from brave women who have achieved incredible things by depending on their inner strength, which is the most dependable form of insurance. Through the initiative, Canara HSBC Life Insurance aims to reaffirm its positioning, “Promises Ka Partner” and underpins its brand promise with the message #DependOnInsurance-DependOnUs.

    The series comprises of five episodes around the theme ‘Life Lessons from Women Who Changed The World’. The first episode with Deepa Malik’s life journey from paralysis to the Paralympics is one of resilience and triumph. Other episodes include stories of Sudha Murty’s determination to fight for her rights, Bachendri Pal’s grit to scale the Everest, Kalpana Chawla’s courage to reach for the skies, and Guneet Monga’s perseverance to win the Oscar. All these inspiring stories are a testament to women’s power to break barriers and fulfill promises, inspiring all to embrace courage and determination.

    Canara HSBC Life Insurance chief distribution officer – alternate channels & chief strategy officer and marketing head Rishi Mathur, “In the realm of Life Insurance, where most brands tend to place their product at the forefront of all communication, this series offers a welcome departure. Through this campaign, our goal is to motivate and encourage a growing number of individuals to take a bold step forward, confident in the knowledge that they have a highly reliable insurance partner supporting them. At Canara HSBC Life Insurance, we strive every day to be a dependable insurance company for our customers. We have roped in Kirron Kher as the face of the campaign, her resonant voice and a commanding presence adds that dependability and authenticity factor to these magical stories. Her connect with the audience on an emotional level helps us deliver the key narratives of resilience with an even greater impact.”

    Face of the campaign, Kirron Kher said, “In my perspective, personal inner strength stands as the primary wellspring of reliability for an individual. Irrespective of circumstances, it serves as the most trustworthy form of assurance. As my own journey has been shaped by my inner strength, it was truly gratifying to narrate the equally remarkable stories of others who have achieved the extraordinary.”

    Campaign conceptualisation and execution agency Pravis Growth Partners creative head Pragya Bhatnagar added, “We have put forth our utmost effort to authentically portray their journeys, the challenges they faced, and the genuine emotions they experienced. While these women relied solely on their inner strength, we can all dare to pursue our dreams with confidence if we have a trustworthy insurance partner to rely on. We are also inviting the audience to share similar stories and create more impact.”

    • First episode: Ability Beyond Disability – Deepa Malik

    The episode with Deepa Malik’s life journey is one of resilience and triumph. Despite being diagnosed with a spinal tumor at the age of 5, enduring years of recovery, and later facing a life-threatening surgery at the age of 30, Deepa’s determination to walk, to overcome societal doubts, and to showcase “ability beyond disability” fueled her extraordinary transformation throughout. Overcoming multiple surgeries, the loss of bones and lung capacity, Deepa not only defied the odds but excelled. From financial independence through entrepreneurship to becoming a gold medalist swimmer and winning at the Rio Paralympics, she reshaped perceptions of age, gender, and disability. Deepa Malik’s story is a testament to a Women’s power to break barriers and fulfill promises, inspiring all to embrace courage and determination, with a dependable partner like ‘Insurance’.

    • Second Episode: Leading From The Back – Sudha Murty

    The episode is about Sudha Murty, an educationist, author, philanthropist, and the chairperson of Infosys Foundation. Born in Karnataka, she defied societal norms and pursued a career in engineering, becoming the first lady engineer at TELCO. She met Narayan Murthy and supported his entrepreneurial dreams by providing financial assistance. This marked the beginning of Infosys, a renowned software consulting company. Sudha Murty’s unwavering support extended to Infosys employees, even pledging her jewelry to ensure they received their salaries. Further to this, she founded Infosys Foundation in 1996, focusing on education, rural development, healthcare, arts, and destitute care, making a significant impact on society. Sudha Murty’s story illustrates the power of determination and supporting one another, emphasizing the importance of keeping promises, with Canara HSBC Life Insurance being a dependable partner.

    • Third Episode: The Everest Of Life – Bachendri Pal

    It is a remarkable story of Bachendri Pal, the first Indian woman to conquer Mount Everest and the fifth woman globally to do so. Born in Uttarakashi, India, Bachendri faced societal challenges but pursued education and later mountaineering. Her relentless determination led her to scale numerous peaks, ultimately reaching the summit of Everest in 1984. Surviving an avalanche during her ascent, she exhibited unwavering courage and continued her climb, becoming a source of inspiration. Bachendri Pal’s achievements extended beyond mountaineering as she trained others in adventure sports and led rescue missions. Her story highlights the strength and resilience of women, and just like Bachendri, anyone can conquer life’s challenges with their inner strength and a dependable insurance partner like Canara HSBC Life Insurance.

    • Fourth Episode: Reaching For The Stars – Kalpana Chawla

    The story revolves around Kalpana Chawla, a woman driven by a passion for aviation and a dream to explore beyond Earth’s boundaries. Born in Karnal, India, she defied gender barriers to pursue aerospace engineering, earning advanced degrees in the United States. Kalpana joined NASA as an astronaut, ultimately becoming the first India-born woman to venture into space. Tragically, her second mission on the Columbia space shuttle in 2003 ended in disaster as the shuttle disintegrated during re-entry with earth’s atmosphere, claiming the lives of all seven crew members, including Kalpana Chawla. Her legacy endures through her contributions to space exploration and her commitment to inspiring girls to dream limitlessly. NASA honored her by naming a spacecraft after her. Kalpana’s story underscores the power of determination and keeping promises, with Canara HSBC Life Insurance as a dependable partner.

    • Fifth episode: Lights Camera Action Success – Guneet Monga

    A commendable journey of Guneet Monga Kapoor, a visionary Indian film producer. Despite humble beginnings and numerous challenges, Guneet rose to prominence as the founder of Sikhya Entertainment and the producer of acclaimed films/series like “Gangs of Wasseypur” and “The Lunchbox.” Her tenacity led her to achieve her dream of attending the Oscars, and she made history with her work on the Academy Award-winning documentary short film “Period – End of Sentence.” Guneet’s dedication towards empowering women in the film industry led to the creation of the ‘Indian Women Rising’ cinema collective. Her story embodies the strength and determination that women are known for, and she has not only created her table but also left an indelible mark in the male-dominated film industry, putting Indian cinema on the global stage. With inner strength, anyone can overcome life’s challenges, and with a dependable insurance partner like Canara HSBC Life Insurance, you can Depend On Insurance to chase your dreams.

  • Sony Sports Network launches the grandest campaign ‘Iss Baar Sau Paar’ for 19 Asian Games

    Sony Sports Network launches the grandest campaign ‘Iss Baar Sau Paar’ for 19 Asian Games

    Mumbai: Ahead of the 19 Asian Games Hangzhou 2022, official broadcasters, Sony Sports Network, have launched the grandest campaign in the history of the Asian Games in India. In order to ensure that the message ‘Iss Baar Sau Paar, Phir se, Hum Hongey Kamyab’ resonates across every corner of India, Sony Sports Network has garnered support from an impressive line-up of influential and iconic figures such as the union minister of sports, Anurag Thakur, chief of defence staff, Lt Gen Anil Chauhan along with chiefs of tri-services Gen Manoj Pandey, Admiral Radhakrishnan Hari Kumar and air chief marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari who have put their might behind the Indian athletes vying for top honours at the prestigious multi-sporting event.  

    Recognising the power of collective ambition, the campaign shines a spotlight on the unsung heroes of Indian sports – those who have relentlessly dedicated themselves to their respective disciplines and are on the precipice of donning the national colours at this esteemed multi-sport event. Among the prominent influencers of the country who have joined the broadcaster’s mission and shared their messages for the participating athletes to reach higher echelons in this edition of the quadrennial extravaganza are Amitabh Bachchan, Sudha Murty, Aamir Khan, Hema Malini, Madhuri Dixit, Aditya Roy Kapoor, John Abraham, Abhishek Bachchan, Kapil Sharma Mirabai Chanu, Zaheer Khan, Anju Bobby George, Raja Randhir Singh and many more. Also joining the broadcaster, was an all-star lineup of Indian sports journalists who have been covering the journeys of our sporting heroes from Dainik Jagran, Dainik Bhaskar, Rajasthan Patrika, The Telegraph, Deccan Chronicle, Dinakaran, Lokmat, Eenadu, Gujarat Samachar, Sandesh, Asomya Pratidin, Sportskeeda along with RJs from Radio City and Radio One and representatives from leading news channels Aaj Tak and NDTV 24X7.

    This vast consortium unites with a singular purpose: to challenge Indian athletes to transcend past records, push boundaries, and ignite a nationwide fervour for sports. The strategy stands clear: a united India, cheering in unison, can inspire its athletes to unprecedented heights.

    The hon’ble Anurag Singh Thakur shares a special message for our athletes | Asian Games –

    A special message from Gen. Anil Chauhan, chief of defence staff, Indian Armed Forces | Asian Games –

    Indian Army chief’s passionate call: Rally behind our athletes at Asian Games 2023 –

    Best wishes from the IAF chief marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari | 19 Asian Games | Sony Sports Network –

    India’s biggest stars unite for team India at the 19 Asian Games –

    Amitabh Bachchan shares a special message for Indian Athletes | Asian Games | Sony Sports Network –

    Aamir Khan joins the #GrandestAsianGamesCampaign | Sony Sports Network –

    Mirabai Chanu Hai Zidd Par Sawar | 19 Asian Games Hangzhou 2022 | Sony Sports Network –

    Journalists across India come together to wish Indian Athletes | 19 Asian Games –

    Sony Sports Network’s ‘Iss Baar Sau Paar, Phir se, Hum Hongey Kamyab’ campaign is the grandest campaign ever made in the history of the Asian Games in India. The campaign has attracted a host of sponsors such as Hyundai, JSW, Limca Sportz, Paisabazaar, LIC of India, Ultratech Cement, State Bank of India, and Panasonic amongst others and more brands are expected to be announced by the time the Asian Games begin on 23 September 2023.  

    Comments:  

    Sony Pictures Networks India chief revenue officer – distribution & international business and head – sports business Rajesh Kaul:

    “The Asian Games is one of the grandest stages in the sporting world of Asia and the Indian contingent is training hard to add to our medal count. It’s a moment of national pride as we have stalwarts from every walk of life joining us for the campaign to rally behind our Indian athletes making this the grandest campaign ever for the Asian Games. Adding to that, we have also received great support from our sponsors who will surely benefit from the strategic partnership with Sony Sports Network for the Asian Games.”  

    Sony Pictures Networks India head Ad sales, network channels, Sandeep Mehrotra:  

    “Over the years, multi-sporting events have attracted significant viewer interest and we have done well to tap into the immense potential of non-cricket sports in India. Brands want to associate with content that is not only culturally relevant but also inspirational and evokes national pride. The 19 Asian Games on Sony Sports Network will provide advertisers with the ideal platform to communicate their message to a wide demographic of receptive viewers from across the country through innovative advertising solutions. We are thrilled to witness a tremendous response for the upcoming 19th Asian Games with advertiser interest from across categories like Automobiles, BFSI, Beverage, consumer durables and others.”

    Hyundai Motor India Ltd AVP & head of marketingVirat Khullar:  

    “Hyundai’s partnership with Sony Sports Network for the Asian Games signifies a strategic commitment that extends beyond the world of sports in India. Sport serves as a formidable catalyst, fostering performance, personal growth, teamwork, and discipline among our youth. By investing in events like the Asian Games, Hyundai not only promotes youth participation but also ignites their aspirations, encouraging them to dream big and realize their full potential. This initiative is one of many in Hyundai’s sports portfolio, aligned with our overarching mission of enriching vibrant and healthy communities.

    Our strategic alliance with sports nurtures talent and resonates with Hyundai’s global vision of ‘Progress for Humanity.’ In this endeavour, Hyundai goes beyond manufacturing cars; we actively contribute to the construction and promotion of a brighter future for youth through the transformative power of sports.”  

    Paisabazaar.com chief marketing officer Sachin Vashishtha:  

    We are delighted to associate with Sony Sports Network for the 19th Asian Games, the biggest stage for sports in the continent. At Paisabazaar, we have always believed in leveraging the power of sports to take our brand to each and every household across towns and cities in India. Our association with the Asian Games is also in line with our commitment towards promoting sports and encouraging athletes across the country. This year’s Asian Games promises to be bigger and better with a record participation by the Indian contingent. We are firm believers in a long-term partnership with our media partners and with Sony Sports Network, Once again, we aim to leverage the power of the broadcaster’s customised solutions for this marquee event. Paisabazaar wishes the entire Indian contingent all the best for the Games.”  

    The 19 Asian Games will also see a first-ever appearance for the Indian cricket teams at the Asian Games with Ruturaj Gaikwad and Smriti Mandhana headlining the teams. Olympic Gold medallist Neeraj Chopra will be one of India’s top medal hopefuls in the Javelin throw followed by PV Sindhu, HS Prannoy, and the doubles duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty who have been in excellent form in recent months and are strong contenders for medals in badminton. In addition to these athletes, the runners, archers, Indian rugby, hockey and football teams, swimmers, bridge, and chess teams, amongst others, will also be competing to add to the medal tally. All these athletes will be giving their best to help India achieve its goal of the 100 medal tally for the 19 edition of the quadrennial event.

    Sony Sports Network has launched the grandest campaign ever for the 19th Asian Games which features eminent personalities such as Union Minister of Sports, Shri Anurag Thakur, Chiefs of the tri-services and Defence Staff from the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force along with Bollywood Icons Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Hema Malini, Madhuri Dixit, John Abraham along with Sports Icons Mirabai Chanu, Zaheer Khan, Anju Bobby George, Raja Randhir Singh and so many more. Sony Sports Network also announces the great advertiser interest and the brands onboarded for the prestigious multi-sporting event that starts next week.

    Watch the 19 Asian Games Hangzhou 2022 – LIVE on Sony Sports Ten 2 & Sony Sports Ten 2 HD, Sony Sports Ten 5 & Sony Sports Ten 5 HD channels from 5:30 pm IST, 23rd September, 2023. 

  • Sony YAY! celebrates Teacher’s Day with the fourth edition of its flagship initiative, Heroes Behind the Heroes

    Sony YAY! celebrates Teacher’s Day with the fourth edition of its flagship initiative, Heroes Behind the Heroes

    Mumbai: After parents, teachers are the most influential and life-changing role models for children. They inspire, encourage, and guide us to find the best in ourselves and strive for excellence. Undoubtedly, they are the real heroes who dedicate themselves in shaping other’s life and create role models that we look up to. Extending gratitude for their commitment to shaping lives, Sony YAY! celebrates Teacher’s Day with the fourth edition of their marquee initiative, Heroes Behind the Heroes, by honouring the change-makers from different walks of life for their valuable contribution to the society.

    Building on the success of its previous editions, the much-acclaimed initiative has celebrated and honoured champions in the likes of Sania Mirza, Kailash Satyarthi, Subhash Ghai, Anupam Kher, Pandit Birju Maharaj, Mahavir Singh Phogat amongst others.

    This year, the channel acknowledges most legendary icons of education, tech, space-science, sports and entertainment industries.

    1.    Sudha Murty – As the Chairperson of the Infosys Foundation, through her relentless efforts, has extended a helping hand to the under privileged in the areas of arts, culture, ritual development and hunger eradication

    2.    Dr Mylswamy Annadurai Dubbed as the "Moon Man of India", he is the former director of ISRO Satellite Centre and has also played key roles in some of the country’s most complex missions like Chandrayaan & Mangalyaan

    3.    Byju Raveendran – He is the founder of Byjus app and has revolutionized and reformed modern-day education with technology!

    4.    Sonu Sood – He is an actor who has won hearts with his unmatched generosity and has emerged as a pillar of support during the lockdown for many migrants across the country.

    5.    Shilpa Shetty Kundra – An actor, fitness enthusiast and entrepreneur, she has been instrumental in fostering the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle amongst young parents and children

    6.    Shafali Verma – She is the latest batting sensation in the Indian Women’s Cricket Team, who became the youngest Indian to score an international half-century – surpassing a 30-year-old record held by Sachin Tendulkar

    7.    Jwala Gutta – She is one of the country’s most decorated badminton players having won a Gold medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games

    Comments:

    Leena Lele Dutta, Business Head, Sony Pictures Networks India, Kids’ Genre!

    “Teachers play an important role in all of our lives, as they build the foundation of our future and support us in everything that we aspire to be! They are the real nation-builders with the multitude of roles they play in our lives. On this teacher’s day, we at Sony YAY! extend our tribute to these icons of our country”.

    Sudha Murty, Chairperson of Infosys Foundation

    “Thank you Sony YAY! for the award – Heroes Behind the Heroes. I am grateful and I am glad that I have been able to continue my philanthropic work through decades. There’s still much to be done and I look forward to it.”

    Dr Mylswamy Annadurai, Indian scientist

    "I am extremely happy to receive the award ‘Heroes Behind the Heroes’ conferred on me by Sony YAY! on the Eve of National Teacher’s day. If I am there in the school text books of Tamil Nadu, it's due to the seed implanted in my soul to be a worthy human by my teachers. If I am called Moon man of India, it is the outcome of that curiosity in outer planets imbibed by the teachers. In short, what I am is due to my teachers, who were the all-time heroes behind my success and boost to take me out of failures"

    Byju Raveendran, Founder of Byju’s

    “Thank you for this gesture team Sony YAY! . Our goal has always been to help kids fall in love with learning and to enable them to become life-long learners. This award is for every single member of the BYJU’S’ family.”

    Sonu Sood, Actor

    “All of my efforts over the past few months have been life-lessons that were imparted to me by my teachers and gurus. The reason thousands of migrants saw me take ownership of the situation was because of what my teachers taught me. I’m glad to have learnt the right things under their tutelage and made a change in society for the better. I thank Sony YAY! for this initiative that recognizes the role that teachers play in our lives. They truly are the God amongst us human beings.”

    Shilpa Shetty Kundra, Actor, Fitness Enthusiast, Entrepreneur

    "Thank you Sony YAY! for the ‘Heroes Behind the Heroes’ award. Teachers are the first people, apart from our family, who have the power to shape our personalities. The lockdown entailed virtual schooling, and getting down to teach my son amid this new normal has made me realize the value & importance of teachers. The values, discipline, & teachings that they have imparted have been instrumental in how I see life, and how my child will see life & make decisions. Today, if I can make a difference in any way to the society we live in, I humbly owe it to my gurus. They are the real heroes to me, and I want to say a big thank you to the entire team of Sony YAY! for this extremely beautiful & thoughtful gesture of recognizing their value & contribution. They say Acharya Devo Bhava; so, on that note, Happy Teacher’s Day.”

    Shafali Verma, Indian Cricketer

    “It gives me immense pleasure and I feel honored to receive this award from Sony YAY! I'd like to dedicate this award to my father for he has been the real Hero in my journey. I'd also like to dedicate this honor to my coaches who moulded and continue to shape my career."

    Jwala Gutta, Professional badminton player

    “I would like to thank Sony YAY! for giving me this award, I am humbled and overwhelmed by this honor. I hope I can live up to it as it brings more responsibility for me to continue on the right path. I hope that the kids get motivated and inspired by whatever I do even in the future. I wish Sony YAY! lots of luck and I hope that they keep inspiring all the kids to make our society a better place.”