Month: March 2025

Interview with Dr. Pawan Kumar Mishra
By Dr. Manisha Bose

1. Is our destiny predetermined, or do we have free will to shape our lives despite our astrological birth chart?

   Ans: The primary question of pre-determinism versus free-will has not arrived at a consensus amongst philosophers or scientists. For our common understanding, we may look at the question in the following way –
    
   We have free will to choose amongst available options. Once we have chosen, the consequences of that choice we made appear in front of us as destiny, pre-determined by the choice we made out of our free will. We must learn to make superior choices exercising our free will arising out of our Intellect. This shall manifest as the destiny we desire.
    
   As an aside, we need to become aware of the fact that our merely our choices or following actions do not convert into results. No! The events and experiences that we go through are a product of our actions and the prevailing circumstances.      
    
   Thus, astrology is more than merely predicting the future. It is a dynamic tool to shape our lives as we live through it, through mindfulness, self-reflectionand a profound understanding of our own personality and the unique treasures we hold.
    

2. Why is ancient wisdom of Astrology still relevant? How scientific or unscientific is Astrology?
    
   Ans: Astrology offers an insight to one’s mind, unmatched by any other tool available with Mind Sciences. It can help map active and dormant patterns, impressions and proclivities of one’s mind, which directly influence the nature, attitude, behaviour and choice making aspects of a person.
    
   Astrology is based upon Astronomy which is scientific. The interpretations arrived through astrology are accurate in higher percentage than a toss of a coin or mere guess work or intuiting can do. In my personal practice, I am left to wonder at the accuracy of predictions even in cases which may potentially have complex outcomes. In so much, Astrology can be called scientific. However, for Astrology to be called scientific but the scientific community, it needs to pass through several filters, some of which it may not be able to. Thus, we may refer to Astrology as being quasi-scientific.      
    
3. You have been honoured with Spiritual Scientist awardby All India Institute of Local Self Government (AIILSG), Andhra University Center, India. In your journey as a Spiritual Scientist, how do you bridge the gap between science and spirituality? Can spiritual experiences be studied through a scientific lens?
    
   Ans: Science has provided us with a sophisticated methodology to approach, learn about and know the facts about matter, energy and all the products and phenomenon arising out of these. Science extends into understanding life sciences including mind sciences. Spirituality on the other hand concerns itself with consciousness and conscience and phenomenon that may not all belong fully to the matter-energy realm.
    
   I use whatever methods are applicable from the field of science to understand spirituality. This makes it easier to understand apparently complex aspects of consciousness, bringing in as much objectivity, rationality, reproducibility and testability as possible. Spiritual experiences have to be validated through the lens of scientific methodology, unless they are totally subjective. My Guru, Swami Veda Bharati and his Guru, Swami Rama were subjects of several scientific studies by the Institute of Noetic Sciences (USA) and the Menninger Foundation (USA). However, Swami Veda once explained to me that the instruments of science, for example the EEG machine can at most record a flat line showing no electrical activity in the brain. This is a material phenomenon, not strictly spiritual. But the seven levels that the mind crosses beyond the flat line, also known as isoelectric EEG, cannot be captured by any instrument.    

   
    

4. Your magnanimous book Living Hanuman, a syncretic commentary on Chalisa is called a Journey from one’s selfie to the Self.  Can you explain this phenomenon?
    
   Ans: Selfie is known to all! Selfie shows the outermost layer of one’s physical personality. The Self, also known as the Aatman, is the innermost point of one’s Being. Human life is mostly a journey at the level of the selfie. But one’s true purpose is to undertake the inner journey from this layer of the selfie to the point of the Self. It is also known as realizing the Self.      
    
5. Your book Happytual by Rupa Publications is a self-help book. You mention about Bindu, one’s deepest inner Point. What is this Bindu that you are referring to that one needs to arrive at to experience true happiness?
    
   Ans: This Bindu is Aatman, the Indweller Self which inhabits each one our body-mind shell. Ananda or Bliss is its innate nature. The happiness one seeks is one’s own true nature, just as a throughout its life, musk-deer chases the fragrance of the musk, which is embedded in his own navel. True happiness which is sustainable can be experienced only by arriving into one’s Bindu and living one’s life from here- the Happy Point.

   Dr. Pawan Kumar Mishra
   Spiritual Scientist I Author I Vedic Astrologer
   Founder- Ivalyou Foundation
    
   Dr. Pawan Kumar Mishra is a Transpersonal Coach and Vedic Astrologer. Through his transformative sessions and workshops for individuals, groups and companies worldwide, he helps to wake up people to their true potential, purpose and happiness. He has earlier worked in the corporate sector in senior management roles in organizations such as DCM-Toyota Limited, The Times of India group, Expeditors International (USA), and others. He served as a spiritual guide for HELP, a corporate leadership program of CBS-Executive under Copenhagen Business School, Denmark.  
   He founded the Shrine Of Universal Love (SOUL), where an unbroken stream of round-the-clock prayers for world peace were offered for nine years (2008-17).  In 2020, he founded and currently guides Sri Kula, a global community of spiritual seekers, who belong to diverse cultures, nationalities, religions and beliefs. He is the founder of Ivalyou Foundation (2022), an NGO serving to bring about an inner shift from ME to WE in individuals and organizations.
   Books written:
   Happytual – The Non-Pursuit of Happiness (2024)
   Living Hanuman (2019)
   Diwali Pooja Vidhi (2005, 2016)
   
    
   Awards:
   Spiritual Scientist award by All India Institute of Local Self Government (AIILSG), Andhra University Center.
   Doctor of Philosophy – Spiritual Science and Writing(Honoris causa), by Hessen International University, Germany.    

   Linkedin: in/PawanKumarMishra108  
   Facebook: PawanMishra108  
   Instagram: PawanMishra1008
   YouTube: LivingHanuman5225
   Mobile Phone: +91 9582260744

   Email: mishra_pawan@yahoo.com
   Website: www.astroshree.com; www.ivalyou.org
    
    
   Links to buy the books by Dr. Pawan Kumar Mishra are given below :
   Living Hanuman (only e-book version available now):
   https://a.co/d/dgJjA0X
   Happytual  
   https://a.co/d/cI5D3Sx

Interview by
Dr. Manisha Bose
Lecturer, Assumption University
Founder, We-Women Network

Bangkok, 22/03/2025: An international arrest warrant has been issued by the Thai government against Shankhesh Mutha, the prime accused in the theft of diamonds worth several crores of rupees from an Indian-origin diamond trader in Bangkok.

Reliable sources confirmed that Shankhesh Mutha, son of Hemchandra Mutha and a resident of Beawar, Rajasthan, had been employed as a trusted salesperson for several years by the diamond trader. Over the course of his employment, Mutha gained the trader’s complete confidence, which he betrayed by absconding with diamonds worth crores of rupees from the trader’s showroom in Bangkok.

Following the incident, the trader promptly lodged a complaint at the local police station in Bangkok. However, due to the complexities involving international jurisdiction, legal proceedings faced delays, which Mutha exploited to flee Thailand and reach India.

Upon learning of the incident, which originally occurred in 2021, Thai authorities initiated an international investigation. Having identified Mutha’s presence in India, the Thai government has formally issued an international arrest warrant. Additionally, they have requested cooperation from the Government of India for his immediate arrest and extradition.

The Government of India, acknowledging the seriousness of the case, has forwarded the matter to the Patiala Court. Legal proceedings have been initiated to facilitate the arrest of Shankhesh Mutha and his subsequent extradition to Thailand to face trial.

Authorities from both countries continue to coordinate closely to expedite the arrest and extradition process, ensuring justice for the aggrieved party and reinforcing international cooperation against cross-border crimes.

In a significant development for regional cooperation in South Asia and Southeast Asia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is confirmed to visit Thailand to participate in the BIMSTEC summit scheduled for April 2-4, 2025. The summit, set to convene in Bangkok, will bring together leaders from the member countries of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).

The 2025 summit aims to set a transformative agenda for the region with its focus on the ‘BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030’ and the ‘BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement’. These initiatives are designed to enhance economic integration and cooperation among the member states, which include Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.

Prime Minister Modi’s participation is particularly significant as it underscores India’s commitment to strengthening regional ties and enhancing economic and technical cooperation in the Bay of Bengal region. Official sources confirm that alongside the summit, there may be several high-profile bilateral meetings. A key highlight could be a potential discussion with Bangladesh’s chief advisor, Muhammad Yunus, an influential figure in international economic development and finance.

The BIMSTEC summit is more than just a diplomatic rendezvous; it is a strategic platform for discussing issues ranging from trade to technology transfer among the participating nations. The ‘BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement’ is anticipated to be a major step towards liberalizing trade practices and enhancing economic growth in the region. Moreover, the ‘BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030’ is set to outline the roadmap for sustainable development and deeper integration over the next decade.

As Bangkok gears up to host this crucial summit, all eyes will be on the outcomes and declarations that will emerge from the discussions. The participation of leaders like Prime Minister Modi not only adds gravitas to the summit but also represents a hopeful vision for regional collaboration. Stay tuned for more updates as we cover the BIMSTEC summit and its impact on regional dynamics in South and Southeast Asia.

We-Women Network Resumes Its Knowledge-Sharing Sessions!

We are thrilled to announce the return of the We-Women Network Knowledge-Sharing Sessions, continuing this month after our bi-monthly hiatus! Our mission remains steadfast: to foster a community where women can exchange ideas, uplift one another, and thrive together. Each session is designed to be a nurturing environment where one woman leads, and others engage through active listening, meaningful interaction, and shared experiences, thereby building a strong and supportive network.

Accessible and Inclusive: All our sessions are voluntary and completely free of cost, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all who wish to participate.

Commitment to Social Impact: Our commitment extends beyond knowledge sharing. The We-Women Network is proud to support various charitable organizations, including Baan Unrak Children’s Home, Camellian Home for Special Needs, and the Hope Foundation. We believe that small acts, when united, can create a massive wave of positive change.

Diverse and Inspiring Community: Our community boasts a vibrant mix of entrepreneurs, homemakers, professionals, and artists, all united by a common goal to learn, grow, and support each other. This diversity not only enriches our sessions but also strengthens our collective impact.

Gratitude for Support: A special thanks to Sunil Kothari Ji for his continuous support by sponsoring our venue at Pacific City Club. His dedication to our cause is deeply appreciated. We are also grateful to our partners and collaborators, @DigitalLiving and @BangkokScoop, for their unwavering support.

Join Our Growing Community: Our WhatsApp group, with over 400 members, is a hub for daily engagement, support, and networking. While open discussions are encouraged at any time, Mondays are specifically reserved for promoting products and services. If you are a woman in Thailand and wish to join our thriving community, click here to join.

Upcoming Saturday Sisterhood Sessions:

• 29th March: Express & De-Stress Through Art, led by Diptina Kothari.
• 24th May: Freedom from Transgenerational Trauma: Releasing Your Struggles Through Family Constellations, led by Verele Vorstman.
• 21st June: Listening with Empathy While Leading with Boundaries, led by Preet Srikureja.
• 21st July: Hormonal Harmony: Understanding the Rhythm of the Body, led by Dr. Donna Robinson.
• 23rd August: A Day at Camillian Home for Special Needs (Group Activity), coordinated by Deepali Kejriwal and Nidhi Jawar.
• 27th September: Sustainable Living: Everyday Choices for a Better Future, led by Deepali Nair.
• October: Community Support Month – Collecting essential items for Hope Foundation and visiting the detention center with Hope volunteers.
• 22nd November: Women’s Art Exhibition coordinated by Neelu Dey.
• December: Collecting toiletries as gifts for Baan Unrak Children’s Home.
• 26th January: Vision Board Activity, led by Lynn Howard.

Celebrating Every Day: At We-Women Network, we believe that every day is a celebration of womanhood, empowering us to nurture our families, community, and each other.

Join us as we continue to share knowledge, support each other, and grow together in strength and unity.

By Dr. Manisha Bose
Lecturer, ABAC
Chapter Head #WomenPower a Global Movement Thailand.
Manishabose1974@gmail.com
We-Women Network

Recently featured on republicnewsindia.com, an enlightening interview with Bollywood actor Nivaan Sen offers a deep dive into his life, professional journey, and ongoing collaboration with Sunil Kothari and Urban Boat Films. As they wrap up their latest project and gear up for future ventures, Nivaan provides insights into the creative processes and the compelling stories they aim to tell through their films.

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A post shared by Urban Boat Films Official (@urbanboatfilmsofficial)

Sunil Kothari: The Backbone of Urban Boat Films In the interview, Nivaan Sen extends heartfelt thanks to Sunil Kothari, describing him as both a steadfast support and a family friend to the Urban Boat Films team. Their recent project concluded with filming in the evocative and culturally steeped locations of Varanasi. “Sunil ji has been the bedrock of support, standing strong with us through thick and thin,” says Nivaan, highlighting the close-knit nature of their team.

Choosing Varanasi: More Than Just a Setting Nivaan elaborates on the decision to shoot in Varanasi, emphasizing the intrinsic connection between the story and its setting. “Choosing Varanasi wasn’t just about finding a location; it was about finding a soul for our film,” he notes. The team was committed to capturing the authentic essence of the narrative, making no compromises on the depth and integrity of the setting.

A Look Ahead: Releases and New Beginnings The enthusiasm is palpable as Nivaan confirms the upcoming release of their film, under a working title for now, expected to debut this year with divine blessings. He also teases ongoing discussions for future projects, underscoring a vibrant path ahead for Urban Boat Films.

Genre and Craft: Commitment to Storytelling Describing the genre of the upcoming film as drama fiction, Nivaan shares the extensive effort invested in the script, “We’ve dedicated almost two years to writing and researching, ensuring the story will resonate deeply with our audience.” He also addresses his fans’ anticipation, hinting at his return to acting soon, while currently focusing on writing and production roles.

Conclusion: This interview not only offers a glimpse into the collaborative spirit of Urban Boat Films but also showcases Sunil Kothari’s profound influence on the projects. With the team preparing for the release of their much-anticipated film and planning further cinematic explorations, the journey of Urban Boat Films is one to watch.

Acknowledgements: We thank republicnewsindia.com for the original feature and extend our best wishes to Nivaan Sen, Sunil Kothari, and the entire team at Urban Boat Films for their upcoming releases and future endeavors.

The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) has arrived at Wing 6 of the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) in Don Mueang, Bangkok, with 12 Hawk Mk 132 aircraft. This esteemed nine-aircraft aerobatic team is set to perform public displays on March 7 and 8, commemorating the 88th anniversary of the RTAF. ​

A Legacy of Precision and Skill

Established in 1996, SKAT has been the IAF’s ambassador, showcasing the prowess and professionalism of its pilots. Transitioning from the HAL HJT-16 Kiran Mk.2 to the BAE Systems Hawk Mk.132 in 2015, the team has continued to mesmerize audiences globally with intricate formations and synchronized maneuvers. ​

Strengthening Indo-Thai Relations

SKAT’s participation in the RTAF’s anniversary celebrations underscores the deep-rooted ties between India and Thailand. Their performance, painting the Bangkok sky with the Indian Tricolor, symbolizes the shared values and mutual respect between the two nations. This event not only highlights military camaraderie but also fosters cultural exchange and goodwill.​

A Spectacle Not to Be Missed

Aviation enthusiasts and the general public are invited to witness SKAT’s aerial display, which promises to be a highlight of the anniversary celebrations. Their presence, alongside elite teams from China, Singapore, Sweden, and the United States, elevates the event’s stature, making it a truly international spectacle. ​

As SKAT takes to the skies over Bangkok, their performance will not only celebrate the RTAF’s legacy but also reinforce the enduring friendship between India and Thailand.​

For more updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow SKAT on their official Instagram page.

Bangkok –  Central Pattana Plc., Thailand’s No.1 sustainable real estate leader and developer of Central shopping centres, residential projects, office buildings, and hotels nationwide, announces a record-breaking performance for 2024 across all business groups.

Ms.Wallaya Chirathivat, President & CEO, Central Pattana Plc., said:  

“With the record-breaking performance in 2024 across all dimensions—revenue, net profit, shareholder returns, dividend payouts, and new highs in all business groups—the success of the Retail-Led Mixed-Use Development strategy is clearly proven. This strategy has been the right approach to driving sustainable growth, enabling both Retail and Non-Retail businesses to thrive together. At the core of this synergy are our shopping centres, which seamlessly connect with our key business pillars: residential, hotels, and office buildings. Together, they form ‘The Ecosystem for All’—a strong and sustainable system that creates value and drives growth for all stakeholders, including customers, partners, shareholders, employees, society, and communities.”

Ms.Naparat Sriwanvit, Chief Finance, Accounting and Risk Management Officer Central Pattana Plc., said:“The company’s performance in 2024 showed excellent growth across all business groups, including shopping centres, residential projects, office buildings, and hotels nationwide. The company reported record-breaking financial results for 2024, with total revenue of 51,843 million baht and net profit of 16,729 million baht, reflecting an 11% increase from the previous year. The company also announced return on equity of 15%, with a record-high dividend of 2.1 baht per share.  With a strong financial position, the company is well-positioned to drive investments for sustained growth and high shareholder returns. Guided by a long-term vision, it remains committed to sustainable business practices, continuous investment, financial stability with strong discipline, and effective strategies that deliver outstanding returns to all stakeholders.”

Retail-led mixed-use model drives all business groups to new heights, defying market challenges

• Retail stores see sales growth, with massive increases in shopping centre traffic and tourist numbers: Reinforcing its leadership as the Top Retail Destination, housing the most extensive collection of global brands, the company  builds confidence among tenant brands choosing to expand their business with Central shopping centres nationwide, enabling these brands to grow and achieve top-ranking sales performance. Committed to being a landmark festive destination, Central Pattana creates successful campaigns across all branches nationwide year-round, attracting over 500 million visits annually to its shopping centres, including more than 67 million tourist visits per year. More than half of all tourists entering Thailand—from China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and beyond—visit Central shopping centres, driving double-digit traffic growth for tourist malls nationwide. The company also announces the successful opening of two major mixed-use developments, Central Nakhon Sawan and Central Nakhon Pathom, which have received an overwhelming response.

Beyond Retail: Record-High Performance in Residential, Office, and Hotel businesses. Non-retail businesses continued their strong growth, achieving all-time-high performance alongside record-breaking retail revenues.

• Residences, homes, and condos soar, defying the real estate market: Condos connected to Central shopping centres are highly popular, with both ESCENT Nakhon Sawan and ESCENT Nakhon Pathom selling out rapidly. This reflects growth amid challenges, deviating from overall trends in the real estate market.
• Office and business remain strong contrary to market trends, with an occupancy rate of 90% (by the end of 2024): Offices connected to shopping centres perfectly fulfill comprehensive lifestyle needs. All 10 locations around Bangkok, including centralwOrld Offices, located in the city centre, continue to maintain their position as the top choice, experiencing exceptional demand and remarkable success.
• Hotel business sets a new record in revenue, strengthening mixed-use projects: Led by Hilton Pattaya, which achieved all-time-high room rates, RevPAR (Revenue Per Available Room), and revenues, Centara hotels in Korat, Ayutthaya, Udon Thani, and Ubon Ratchathani all showed excellent performance. This includes the latest brand launch of Hilton Garden Inn Rayong, located in a prime location adjacent to Central Rayong, the largest lifestyle destination in the province.

In addition, positive macroeconomic factors are contributing to business growth from four key areas: 1) Increased government budget disbursement, especially for investment projects 2) Continued growth in private sector consumption and investment 3) Recovery in tourism and related industries and 4) Expected continuous growth in exports in 2025, with consumer spending projected to rise by 3.3% from 2024.

Central Pattana is confident in positive economic trends, continues to invest according to its business plan, focusing on expanding projects in various areas to be part of developing and driving economic growth across all regions of Thailand. In 2025, the company is ready to move forward with strong management strategies and financial position, creating growth and investing fully according to plan, with preparations to launch the world-class mixed-use project “Central Park” including both shopping centre and office buildings, and the “Central Krabi” project to create a new landmark that fulfills every dimension and elevates the potential of a world-class tourist city.

As of Q4/2024, Central Pattana operates a total of 42 shopping centres (40 Central shopping centres – 16 in Bangkok and perimeter, 23 in provincial Thailand, 1 in Malaysia, 1 Esplanade and 1 Mega Bangna), and 15 community malls with a combined net leasable area of ​​2.3 million sqm. In addition, Central Pattana operates 37 food courts, 10 office buildings, 10 hotels and 43 residential projects.

Central Pattana reinforces its position as a global sustainability leader, operating toward the Net Zero 2050 goal by ranking in the Dow Jones Best in Class Indices among 244 real estate companies worldwide and maintaining membership in the DJSI World index for the 7th consecutive year and in the DJSI Emerging Market for the 11th consecutive year. Additionally, the company has pioneered Finance & Sustainability innovation as the first Thai real estate company to initiate ‘Green Bond’ and Sustainability-Linked Loan’ issuances, while also earning the ‘AAA’ level SET ESG Rating sustainability standard. For more details, please click