With the objective of presenting Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage and the glorious history of Shekhawati to the world, the 16-day international educational program ‘Destination Nawalgarh’, organised by The Anandilal Podar Trust, concluded successfully on 16 January.
The program welcomed students from East Tennessee State University (USA), who began their immersive journey on 1st January with traditional Rajasthani hospitality. Over sixteen days, students experienced a balanced blend of academic engagement and cultural immersion.
Participants explored the renowned frescoes of the Podar Haveli Museum and historic havelis of Shekhawati, gained insights into traditional architecture, and engaged in experiential learning through mehndi art, rangoli, sari draping, daily yoga, kite flying, camel riding, and Makar Sankranti celebrations—making the visit a deeply enriching learning experience.
Academically, the program encouraged dialogue on sustainability and social entrepreneurship, with discussions on skill development, employability, women’s empowerment (Learn & Earn), organic farming, and innovation, highlighting the alignment of Indian values with modern global thinking.
Students from the History cohort explored India’s civilizational journey, studying the Indus Valley Civilization, the Maurya and Gupta periods, and the freedom struggle, gaining a comprehensive understanding of India from ancient to modern times.
At the closing ceremony, Ms. Rishika Gupta Podar, Project Director, emphasized the initiative’s aim to take Indian cultural and educational values to an international audience, describing Nawalgarh’s frescoes as living history and a strong expression of Shekhawati’s heritage. She noted that the program fosters cultural connections, strengthens local art and community participation, and integrates tradition with sustainability, aspiring to position Nawalgarh as a globally respected center for experiential learning.
Mr. Vedant Podar, CEO & Co-founder, Podar Eduspace, highlighted that the program’s focus on sustainability and social entrepreneurship supports future-ready employability skills for youth.
Hon’ble Chairman Mr. Rajiv Podar expressed pride in the program’s success, reaffirming the Trust’s belief in integrating education and culture to establish Shekhawati’s heritage globally.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Christopher Keller, Dean of the Honors College and Senior International Officer at East Tennessee State University, described Destination Nawalgarh as a valuable part of ETSU’s global education portfolio, underscoring the importance of understanding India’s global role.
All participating students received certificates and mementos, while the delegation warmly appreciated the hospitality, art, cuisine, and vibrant culture of Nawalgarh.

The Anandilal Podar Trust (APT) Signed an Agreement of Intent with Lomonosov Moscow State UniversityLomonosov Moscow State University (MSU) to establish a framework for cooperation in implementing academic and educational interaction in areas of mutual interest.

The agreement desires to create a framework for cooperation that will strengthen educational, scientific, and cultural ties between the Russian Federation and the Republic of India.

The Agreement was signed by Mr. Y.A. Mazei ,Vice-Rector, MSU and Mr. Rajenda Bolya, Director APT in presence of Mr. Maxim Bychkov, Director of Lobachevsky First University Lyceum, Mrs. Assia Kontrimovich, International Relations Manager, Lyceum, Ms. Natalia Shakhova  (From Russia Side) and Mr. Rajiv Podar, Chairman, Mr. Vedant Podar, CEO and Mr. Mohit Kumar President (From India side).

Established in 1755, The Lomonosov Moscow State University is ranked at #1 in the Russia and ranks #94 in the World University Ranking by QS in 2025. The institute has around 40,000 graduates and about 7,000 UG students. Every year over 4,000 international students enroll at Moscow State University from all over the world. The university includes 15 research institutes, 43 faculties, more than 300 departments, and six branches. As of 2019, 13 Nobel laureates, six Fields Medal winners, and one Turing Award winner were affiliated with the university.

The second edition of “Sneha Utsav – Bhaavnao Ka Mela”, organised by The Anandilal Podar Trust and Kangaroo Minds, brought Nawalgarh together yesterday for a transformative day dedicated to mental well-being. Held at Seth G.B. Podar College, the event united mental health experts, educators, social workers, and students in a shared mission: normalising conversations around emotional wellness.

The event was graced by Dr. Arun Garg, District Collector, Jhunjhunu, as the Chief Guest, and presided over by Dr. Vedica Podar, Founder of Kangaroo Minds and Trustee of The Anandilal Podar Trust.

Dr. Arun Garg set the tone with a powerful reminder that mental health should not be viewed merely as an illness or problem, but a vital pillar of a meaningful life. He called the Podar Trust’s initiative “a priceless gift for future generations.”

Dr. Vedica Podar reinforced the core #vision of the Utsav:

“Emotions are our strength, not our weakness. The purpose of Sneha Utsav is to create a safe space where everyone can express, listen, and understand one another.”

The program also paid homage to the Late Smt. Snehalata ji Podar with the ceremonial lamp lighting.

Key Dialogues That Mattered

• Rural Mental Health: Insights from Dr. S.M. Swami(State Nodal Officer, National Mental Health Program, Rajasthan), Mr. Ashok Sharma(Deputy Director, Education), Mrs. Neeru Yadav(Sarpanch, Lambi Ahir), and Dr. Vedica Podar highlighted the urgent need for community responsibility in addressing rural emotional challenges.

• Digital Wellness: A timely discussion featuring Mr. Rajveer Singh Shekhawat(Additional Superintendent of Police), Dr. Kapur Thalor(District National Coordinator), and Dr. Vedica Podar on cyberbullying, digital addiction, and social media stress.

Student-Centric Engagement

• The Wall of Hope and Wall of Gratitude encouraged expressive art and collective reflection.

• The “Aao Baat Karein” session created a non-judgmental space for students to ask honest questions, with Dr. Vedica Podar responding with clarity and empathy.

• Cultural performances gave voice and rhythm to the theme of emotional awareness.

The event was graced by several eminent personalities, including Mr. Devendra Chaudhary, Mr. Ravindra Purohit, Mr. Kailash Chotia, Mr. Shrikant Murarka, Mr. Birbal Singh Godara, Thakur Anand Singh Shekhawat, Mr. Mahesh Mishra, Vaidya Shri Ramkrishna Shaunak, Mr. Murli Manohar Chobdar, and representatives of the Scout and Guide community.

Mr. Rajiv Podar, Chairman of The Anandilal Podar Trust, appreciated the team for organising Sneha Utsav with such purpose and clarity.

Senior administrators, including Executive Director Mr. M.D. Shanbhag, Secretary Prof. M.C. Maloo, and the principals were present.

Sneha Utsav has now grown beyond an annual event. It has become a movement of empathy, awareness, and collective action, shaping a mentally strong and emotionally resilient society.