The Lifestyle Portal by Tanya Munshi

10th grader Maya Malhotra tries to understand internal migration in India by exploring why people leave their villages each year in search of better opportunities. As she studies cities like Delhi and Mumbai, she realises how deeply migration shapes urban life—from transport systems to diverse food, festivals, and languages. Her research helps her appreciate migration as a complex journey—one that strengthens cities even as it challenges them to grow more inclusive and resilient.

December 25, 2025 The Lifestyle Portal

A Christmas CSR activity that became a reality check

During a Christmas CSR visit to a senior living home in Mumbai, my team and I expected a cheerful day of decorations and cake. What we received instead was a profound lesson in empathy. Elderly residents welcomed us with fragile eyes and eager hearts, sharing stories that stirred our souls. One former bank manager’s quiet words—“Now I’m here”—echoed long after. That day reminded us that titles and appraisals don’t define us. What truly matters is how we treat others. Empathy isn’t a soft skill—it’s a life skill. And sometimes, the most powerful lessons come from the quietest voices.

Entrepreneurs Food Home Chef People & Culture Success Stories

December 21, 2025 The Lifestyle Portal

How Cheena Soni’s Global Flavours and Comfort Food Classics are Winning Hearts

Whenever I’m craving something warm, flavourful, and made with care, I find myself turning to Home Chef Cheena Soni’s kitchen. Whether it’s her grilled chicken steak, chicken in mushroom sauce, or her much‑loved Khow Suey, she somehow knows exactly what will hit the spot. Over time, we’ve bonded over our shared love for cooking food for others. What I admire most is how Cheena brings global flavours into a home kitchen with such sincerity. She isn’t just a home chef; she’s someone who quietly wins hearts, one soulful dish at a time.

Entrepreneurs Essays & Short Stories Lifestyle People & Culture Success Stories

October 14, 2025 The Lifestyle Portal

Crafting Change: Truly Tribal’s Inspiring Journey to The Better India & The Logical Indian Recognition

A chance meeting at an award ceremony introduced me to Shweta Menon, founder of Truly Tribal. Her passion for Indian crafts and commitment to supporting rural artisans was inspiring. We connected instantly and later featured her story on The Lifestyle Portal in 2020, celebrating her vision to contemporize Indian handicrafts. Over time, our professional collaboration blossomed into a meaningful friendship. During the pandemic, her online workshops helped revive traditional art forms and supported artisans in need. Seeing Truly Tribal featured on The Better India is a proud moment—and a reminder that purpose, perseverance, and heartfelt work always shine through.

Education Finance Lifestyle People & Culture

September 11, 2025 The Lifestyle Portal

Why Tariffs Could Be a Wake-Up Call for Indian Youth to Go Local

Maya Malhotra, a 10th grade student from Mahindra International School, Pune, is exploring the impact of global tariffs to help her peers understand their deeper implications. Her article highlights how rising import costs—especially on gadgets, fashion, and food—are reshaping youth consumption patterns. Rather than viewing these changes as setbacks, Maya encourages a shift in mindset: to see tariffs as a chance to support Indian-made products and services. By spotlighting resilient local brands and innovative startups, she frames this moment as an opportunity for young Indians to embrace indigenous solutions, foster entrepreneurship, and take pride in strengthening their own economy.

Education International Technology

August 22, 2025 The Lifestyle Portal

Criminal Profiling: The Science Behind the Stories

Maya Malhotra, a Class 10 student from Mahindra International School, explores the basics of criminal profiling. Unlike the “mind reading” often shown on TV, profiling is a careful process that applies psychology, forensic science, and technology to study behaviour and identify suspects. From cases like Jack the Ripper to the Mad Bomber, it has become an important investigative tool. In this article, Maya introduces a discipline rooted in science that requires careful analysis and ethical responsibility.

Entrepreneurs People & Culture Pep Talk Success Stories

August 3, 2025 The Lifestyle Portal

Blooming TanMan: A Mother’s Mission to Empower Marginalised Children through Mental Health

Blooming TanMan is a heartfelt initiative started by Sagarika Banerjee, a mother and teacher, in memory of her son Tanmay. The program supports marginalised children by promoting mental health awareness, life skills, and emotional wellbeing. What began in one school in Pune has grown into a community movement—powered by volunteers, love, and resilience. From art therapy to counselling sessions, Blooming TanMan creates safe spaces where children can heal, express, and thrive. It’s a tribute to a son’s vision and a mother’s mission to bring hope and care to those who need it most. Read our special feature here.

International Lifestyle People & Culture Travel

July 18, 2025 The Lifestyle Portal

From Fire Mountains to Flame Towers: Baku’s Last Impressions (Day 5, 6 & 7)

As Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (Retd.) wraps up his week-long journey through Azerbaijan, the final leg offers candid reflections, hidden gems, and a touch of history. From the scenic yet familiar return to Baku, to exploring the Shirvanshah Palace, Highland Park, and the vibrant Fountain Square, each stop brings its own flavour. The real surprises lie in the fiery wonders of Yanar Dag and the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, alongside the tech-savvy exhibits at the Heydar Aliyev Centre. With practical tips, sharp observations, and signature wit, this travelogue offers both inspiration and information for your next adventure. Säg olun!

International People & Culture Travel

July 16, 2025 The Lifestyle Portal

From Baku’s Buzz to Gabala’s Yawn: A Tale of Two Moods (Day 3 & 4)

After the buzz of Baku, we set off for Gabala, a small town in the mountains. The drive was scenic, with a stop at the historic Samaxi Mosque and some interesting roadside moments—including speeding fines handled with casual charm. Gabala welcomed us with cooler weather, a peaceful vibe, and some touristy sights that didn’t quite live up to the hype. The 7 Gozal Waterfalls were underwhelming, but the Tufandag cable car ride saved the day. With overpriced burgers and friendly but forgettable sights, Gabala was a mixed experience—but it added its own flavour to our Azerbaijan adventure. A travelogue series by Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (Retd.).