News Headline
Astral Foundation releases short film ‘Seed Mother’ to celebrate farmer’s day
Mumbai: On the occasion of Farmer’s Day, Astral Ltd.’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm, the Astral Foundation, released a short film. The film is based on the numerous contributions of Padma Shree Award winner Rahibai from the Ahmednagar region of Maharashtra.
The film celebrates Rahibai’s dedication for agrobiodiversity, the preservation and conservation of natural seeds, and spreading awareness about organic farming.
Hailing from Kombhalne, Rahibai learned about the side effects of hybrid seeds and crops at an early age despite not receiving any formal education. Thus, she started growing crops with only natural seeds and proceeded to preserve natural seeds for further cultivation. While her family and peers found her practises strange and pointless, her undying belief in her convictions led her to achieve several milestones for the benefit of her fellow villagers.
Furthermore, her dedication and efforts led her to emerge as an expert in natural seeds and their preservation, leading to her founding the Seed Bank of India, which is responsible for collecting indigenous seeds from all over the country. She was duly recognised for her contributions to the field of organic farming by the government.
Inspired by her lifelong dedication to her craft, Astral Foundation has contributed to her endeavours by setting up a water supply system so that there is water availability in summer months and, hence, her seed cultivation does not get affected.
“We are honoured to be associated with the respected Rahibai, and we appreciate her cause and philosophy toward organic farming and the preservation of natural seeds,” said Astral Ltd. VP of business development Kairav Engineer. “We think we should contribute towards such greater good for the farming sector which eventually will benefit everyone at the end of the day.”
“Our short film is a tribute to an inspirational woman who has taught us to overcome numerous obstacles and social barriers to achieve goals that could potentially benefit millions. Being a socially responsible corporate, we strive to wholeheartedly support noble causes such as Rahibai’s efforts towards organic farming and spreading awareness for the same,” he further added.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
