My City Links April 2023 Issue

Book excerpt: Many first-time visitors to Bhubaneswar can be forgiven for believing that the Odisha capital is only about modern infrastructure and urban living. But ask old-time residents and they will scratch beneath the surface to come up with some sharp insights about a city that is a confusing amalgamation of the ancient and the modern. Our Cover Story is thus both a celebration of Bhubaneswar's glorious past as well as a look at the challenges that stare the city's planners in the face. As we celebrate the 88th Odisha Foundation Day on April 1, we turn the spotlight on Odisha's rich cultural heritage and examine how the legacy is being carried forward in spheres like literature, classical dance, music, and cinema. The concept of tuition classes has been transformed by the emergence of start-ups in the EdTech sector. This has also thrown up several uncomfortable and disturbing questions. We look at the big picture in City Tech. We also gaze to Skyhawk, India’s first 5G drone. One of the founders of the start-up which developed the drone shares interesting insights into the making of the drone that is capable of vertical take-off and landing. With April 2 being observed as World Autism Day, the City Health section brings you an informative news feature on a condition that comes with more than a fair share of misconceptions. This edition also features IT professional-cum-mountaineer Sidharth Routray, who talks about a readiness to face extreme challenges and what the future may hold for him. The City Affairs section looks at cases of acid attacks in Odisha, some common causes behind them, and the legal framework to deal with such incidents. Over the past few years, Kalinga Stadium has become synonymous with big-ticket sporting events in India. A series of successful events held at the venue has reinforced Bhubaneswar’s image as the sports capital of India and put it on the world map. Read all about it in City Sports. Getting noticed by music maestro AR Rahman is really a big deal, and nobody knows this better than Samir Rishu Mohanty, aka Big Deal. The rapper from Odisha recently made it to the cover of the reputed Rolling Stone India magazine, posing with Rahman. Read more about his journey in Screen Shots. The section also features Gaurav Anand, the music sensation who has composed for several Odia projects in recent times. In a free-wheeling chat, the popular musician talks about his journey so far and his plans for the future.