MAM
“Fear Factors” – Episode seven of ‘The Big Small Talk’
Mumbai: After garnering widespread acclaim for their insightful discussions and crossing over 150K plus subscribers on YouTube, The Big Small Talk family proudly presents its latest episode, delving into the pivotal topic of “Fear Factors” in our daily lives! Anuj Sawhney, celebrated for his journey from Bollywood to steering Swiss Military Worldwide, teams up once again with his longtime friend, Manav Subodh, the visionary Founder of 1M1B – One Million for One Billion. Together, they embark on a captivating exploration of the various facets of fear, promising yet another enlightening dialogue for their dedicated audience.
In this episode, Anuj and Manav delve into how conscious and subconscious fears shape our thoughts, words & actions. They discuss various types of fears, including the fear of rejection, failure, social fears, and fears in relationships…emphasizing their profound influence on our personal and professional lives. Through candid and insightful dialogue, they highlight how living in fear can prevent us from taking risks, trying new things & pursuing our dreams. The episode includes personal anecdotes, such as Anuj’s fear of heights and his skydiving experience in South Africa, and Manav’s ongoing fears even in adulthood, illustrating the pervasive and multi-faceted nature of fear and its impact on our lives.
Sharing personal insights, Anuj said, “From childhood fears shaped by family expectations to the fear of criticism and social validation, fear profoundly impacts our behavior and decisions. It’s crucial to understand and address these fears to live more authentically and fearlessly.” And Manav added, “Emotional and mental freedom in relationships is vital; trust and mutual respect should always prevail over dominance and ego. We must also emphasize the role of educational institutions in encouraging students to overcome their fears, fostering a well-rounded and fearless approach to life.”
Tune in to The Big Small Talk Podcast’s latest episode on YouTube and other streaming platforms for a thought-provoking discussion. The listeners are invited on a journey of self-discovery and introspection, understanding that everyone has fears but some manage them better. This episode encourages acceptance of oneself and the pursuit of genuine, fearless living.
Joining the conversation are four intriguing influencers: Angad Singh Narula, a corporate lawyer, social media influencer/ vlogger and superbiker; Parita Lalwani, a tech consultant, hands-on mother and fitness enthusiast; and Dilip Ramachandran, a drummer and creative director.
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Maharashtra panel orders Lodha to refund Rs 5 crore to homebuyers
Consumer court flags unfair practices in long-running property dispute case
MUMBAI: In a sharp rebuke to one of India’s biggest real estate players, the Maharashtra State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has directed Macrotech Developers to refund nearly Rs 5 crore to a senior citizen couple, Uttam and Anindita Chatterjee. The ruling, delivered on March 13, 2026, calls out the developer for “deficiency in service” and “unfair trade practices”, bringing closure to a dispute that has stretched over a decade.
The case traces back to 2015, when the couple booked a 3-BHK flat at World Towers in Lower Parel for Rs 12.22 crore, with possession promised within a year. What followed was a series of changes that complicated matters. After deciding to exit the project, they were persuaded to shift to a 4-BHK in another development priced at Rs 8 crore, with delivery scheduled for 2018. However, within months, the price was allegedly increased to Rs 10 crore. After demonetisation reshaped the market, similar flats were reportedly being offered at lower prices, but the couple were not given the benefit.
Despite paying over Rs 2.83 crore, the couple neither received possession nor clarity. Instead, in 2018, the developer unilaterally cancelled the booking, retained part of the amount as earnest money, and argued that the buyers were investors rather than consumers. The commission rejected this claim, observing that casual references to “investment” do not take away consumer rights when the purchase intent is residential.
The bench also held that the developer could not penalise buyers for payment delays while failing to meet its own delivery commitments. It noted the lack of formal documentation for revised terms and termed the prolonged retention of funds without delivering a home as exploitative.
As part of its order, the commission directed the developer to refund Rs 2.83 crore paid by the couple, along with interest at 10 per cent per annum, amounting to around Rs 2.12 crore. In addition, Rs 1 lakh has been awarded for mental agony and Rs 50,000 towards litigation costs, taking the total payout to over Rs 5 crore. The developer has been asked to comply within two months.
For now, the ruling serves as a reminder that in real estate, shifting terms and delayed promises can carry a significant cost.
