In the heart of Kolkata’s festive season, where art, devotion, and culture come alive, one story shines brighter than the lights of the pandals – that of Gulam Ashraf, Managing Director of Phonex Group of Companies. A devout Muslim by birth and a true son of Bengal by spirit, Gulam Ashraf has been leading the organization of the Phonex 74 Palli Sarbojanin Durgotsav Puja Pandal, year after year, proving that Durga Puja is more than just a festival—it is the living embodiment of India’s unity in diversity.
What makes this initiative extraordinary is Ashraf’s personal involvement—not limited to management, sponsorship, or logistics. He actively participates in rituals and spiritual practices, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with priests and devotees. His efforts exemplify how festivals in Bengal are not bound by religion, but instead unite communities in a shared sense of belonging and devotion.
Speaking about his inspiration, Gulam Ashraf humbly recalls, “It all comes from my father. He taught me to celebrate humanity above all, and this puja is my way of carrying forward that legacy.”
“This year, the Phonex 74 Palli Puja pandal was opened with much fanfare by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. She was joined by Kolkata Mayor and Minister Firhad Hakim, Gulam Ashraf himself, and local councillor Shams Iqbal. The inauguration wasn’t just a festive moment — it beautifully reflected Bengal’s timeless spirit of unity and communal harmony.”
Beyond the grandeur of the pandal, Ashraf’s vision reflects social responsibility. He actively encourages today’s youth to embrace discipline—urging them to say no to alcohol, adopt healthy habits, and focus on fitness. Through his words and actions, he inspires the next generation to celebrate culture while nurturing self-growth.
The Phonex 74 Palli Sarbojanin Durgotsav is not just a cultural landmark in Kolkata’s puja calendar—it is a beacon of inclusivity and inspiration. Under Gulam Ashraf’s leadership, it celebrates the essence of India: a land where faiths may differ, but hearts beat together during moments of joy, devotion, and festivity.
“Har kahani aisi jismein ek movie ban sake” – Naina More launches Her Debut Book –
Tea Cups and Turning Points
published by Rupa Publications
Renowned TEDx Speaker, Celebrity motivational Speaker ;mental wellness advocate and philanthropist Naina More has added another milestone to her inspiring journey with the launch of her debut book Tea Cups and Turning Points, published by Rupa Publications, one of India’s leading publishing houses.
Carrying a powerful hook – “Har kahani aisi jismein ek movie ban sake. Bahut time baad aisi koi book release hui hai” – the book is already making waves for its cinematic quality of storytelling and refreshing take on everyday human journeys.
A collection of 17 short stories, Tea Cups and Turning Points captures ordinary people caught at extraordinary crossroads—stories of resilience, courage, love, joy and rediscovery. At the centre of each tale is a humble cup of tea—symbolizing comfort, pause, and life’s many turning points.
Speaking about her debut, Naina More said:
“This book is my little contribution to spread positivity and self-acceptance. Every story reflects life’s struggles and triumphs in a way that people can see themselves in it. These are stories that could easily play out on the big screen—because they are real, raw, and deeply human.” Now is the time I want to gift people a book that makes them put their phones aside.
About the Book
With its simple yet powerful narratives, Tea Cups and Turning Points explores:
Women and Men at the Edge of Change: Lives poised on the cusp of decisions that will alter everything.
The Loudness of Silence: Families bound together—and sometimes undone—by what remains unsaid.
Resilience in the Smallest Acts: Everyday courage, from walking away to daring to stay.
The stories are intimate yet universal, steeped in emotions that echo long after the last page is turned.
About the Author
Naina More is a three-time TEDx Speaker, Celebrity Motivational Speaker, Chartered Accountant, certified psychological counsellor, poet, columnist, and social activist. Featured in Femina’s “Most Powerful Women 2020” and recipient of the Femina Women Achiever Award, she has inspired thousands through her motivational sessions, mental wellness initiatives, and celebrity talk shows. Her TV program Zindagi Aapki Hai on Taaza TV and her live interviews with over 100 renowned personalities including Smriti Irani, Farah Khan, and Jaya Kishori have established her as a trusted voice on empowerment and resilience.
Her foray into writing with Tea Cups and Turning Points extends her mission of spreading hope and positivity—this time through stories that resonate deeply with readers.
Availability
Tea Cups and Turning Points is now available nationwide in leading bookstores and online portals. One can order on Amazon and other online sites.
Book Launch Venue
Address: G66M+W8P, Kalyanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016
Location: https://share.google/bBu6uexZnqbJcRrA4
Time – 12:02 PM to 12:40 PM
