Latest news with #Devanshi
Mint
3 hours ago
- Mint
Kishtwar cloudburst horror: Pilgrims were having langar en route to Machail Mata shrine when flash floods struck
Hundreds of pilgrims had gathered at the Jasnai nullah at Chasoti village for the last leg of the yatra to Machail Mata temple when tragedy struck on Thursday. The unsuspecting group was resting and having langar when a deadly cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar triggered flash floods and landslides, washing them away. At least 60 people lost their lives in this massive cloudburst led to flash floods, while over a hundred people have been injured. According to media reports, the Jasnai nullah at the Chasoti village is a key stop on the pilgrimage. Here, langar, a community kitchen, is set up for the pilgrims of the Hindu shrine. 'The deluge hit a community kitchen set up for the pilgrims where 100 to 150 pilgrims were having food,' an officer speaking to the Hindustan Times said. According to reports, the nullah is also a regular stop on the pilgrimage route to the Chandi Mata temple in Paddar, where over 1.3 lakh devotees have already visited since it began on July 25. On the fateful Thursday, the number of pilgrims was on a sharp rise because of the first Bhadon or Bhadoon Sankranti (August 15 or 16). According to the shrine's website, devotees from across Paddar were gathering outside the temple in Machail to offer prayers and seek blessings. When the cloudburst hit, many were either standing in the nullah or resting at the langar. Within seconds, the water level surged, sweeping away numerous devotees, locals said. 'We stopped at a Maggi shop. People told us to run (because of the cloudburst), but we stayed back, thinking it was safe here,' Nine-year-old Devanshi said. Within minutes, a large mass of mud collapsed over the shop. 'Mata saved us,' she recounted how her family members and villagers pulled her out of the debris. Sneha from Jammu said she had felt it was all over for her after being washed away and buried under a vehicle. 'As we reached our vehicles, we heard a loud bang and saw a cloudburst over the hill,' she recalled. In no time, a wall of mud, boulders, and trees swept them towards the Chenab River, trapping them. "My father managed to free himself first, then helped me out. I pulled my mother out from under an electric pole. She was barely conscious and badly injured,' she said. She said some villagers were washed away into the Chenab. 'Bodies lay everywhere. The entire hill had come down. Even the Thakur ji idol of Chittoo Mata Temple was washed away before our eyes.'
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
J&K: Cloudburst survivors recall 'miraculous' escape
Nine-year-old Devanshi was among the hundreds of pilgrims who had gathered here for the last leg of the yatra to Machail Mata temple when tragedy struck on Thursday. Buried under mud and debris when a Maggi-point shop was hit by flash floods, she emerged hours later, rescued by her uncle and other villagers. Independence Day 2025 Op Sindoor to water cutoff: PM Modi slams Pak in I-Day speech GST reforms by Diwali to cut daily-use taxes: PM Modi Terrorism, tech, more: PM's I-Day speech highlights "I couldn't breathe. My uncle, bouji, and others removed wooden planks after hours, and we all came out. Mata saved us," she says, the terror still vividly reflected in her voice. Like her, 32-year-old Sneha is still in disbelief that she is alive. Moments after loading luggage onto their vehicle, she and her four family members were swept away in a roaring torrent, buried under mud and crushed beneath a vehicle. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Pensioners Can Buy These Electric Cars in Malaysia - See Prices Here! Electric Cars | Search Ads Search Now Undo "I was trapped in mud under a vehicle, surrounded by bodies - some of them children with broken necks and severed limbs. I lost hope of my survival," she says. Somehow, they clawed their way out. At least 60 people lost their lives when a massive cloudburst led to flash floods in this remote mountain village in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district. Live Events Every survivor here carries a story about escaping from the very jaws of death. "We stopped at a Maggi shop. People told us to run (because of the cloudburst), but we stayed back, thinking it was safe here," Devanshi says, narrating her ordeal. Within minutes, a large mass of mud collapsed over the shop. "Mata saved us," she repeats as she recounts how her family members and villagers pulled her out of the debris. She was taken to a hospital along with other family members, where she was given first aid. Sneha from Jammu says she had felt it was all over for her after being washed away and buried under a vehicle. "As we reached our vehicles, we heard a loud bang and saw a cloudburst over the hill," she recalled. In no time, a wall of mud, boulders, and trees swept them towards the Chenab River, trapping them. "My father managed to free himself first, then helped me out. I pulled my mother out from under an electric pole. She was barely conscious and badly injured," she said. She said some villagers were washed away into the Chenab. "Bodies lay everywhere. The entire hill had come down. Even the Thakur ji idol of Chittoo Mata Temple was washed away before our eyes." Sneha says the swift action of officials, police, the Army, CRPF, and locals saved countless lives. "Within an hour, vehicles arrived to take the injured to hospitals. If they had been late, many more would have died," she said. The sudden roar of water, the deafening blast, and the avalanche of mud, boulders, and trees turned Chositi village into a scene of unimaginable destruction within seconds. A cloudburst high above the hills triggered flash floods that swallowed homes, vehicles, and lives, leaving survivors in shock and grief. The shocking scenes of physical and psychological trauma unfolded on a massive scale as search and rescue operations were underway, digging out mud-buried bodies and rescuing the injured. Sudhir from Udhampur was with a group of 12 when the "sky and earth seemed to collapse together". "After the blast sound, the whole area was filled with fog and dust," he recalled. "Most of my group members were trapped in slush. My wife and daughter were buried under other people. At the bridge construction site, I saw dozens swept into the Chenab. It took seconds for the hill to bury everything." Blood-stained bodies, mud-filled lungs, shattered ribs, and deep wounds packed with stones - these are just some of the harrowing injuries sustained by people, including pilgrims and security personnel, caught in the aftermath of the catastrophic cloudburst in the foothill hamlet of Chositi. Undergoing treatment at the hospital, Sunita Devi from Nanak Nagar said, "I was running when I fell, and some women fell on me. An electric pole hit me and I got a severe shock. I was looking for my son the whole time. We all survived... Mata Rani saved us." Others were not so fortunate. Uma from Jammu clung to a vehicle tyre to avoid being swept away. "A policeman saved me. But my sister, Gahna Raina, is still missing," she said. Vaishali Sharma, who was in a 15-member group, said they ran into a shop for shelter when told about the cloudburst. "It was around 12:15 PM when we neared the bridge. We were told to run and took shelter in a shop, but it caved in under mud and boulders. I was caught between the rocks. I don't know where my parents are. Thanks to the Army, I and five others were rescued." Rescuers, including personnel from the Army, police and CRPF and villagers, continued to pull out survivors and retrieve bodies late into the night. Officials said the quick response helped prevent a higher death toll. Additional Superintendent of Police Pradeep Singh said all forces were engaged in the massive search-and-rescue effort. "SDRF, Army, CRPF, CISF, Police - everyone is on the ground". He said that locals too played a huge role, especially over 20 bikers led by Ganga Ram, who ferried injured people from Chositi to Hamori as the road was cut off by the flooded nallah. "Without them, more lives would have been lost." "This has been a battle against death," a rescue worker said.
The Hindu
4 hours ago
- General
- The Hindu
Jammu and Kashmir cloudburst: Survivors recall ‘miraculous' escape
Nine-year-old Devanshi was among the hundreds of pilgrims who had gathered in Chositi for the last leg of the yatra to Machail Mata temple when tragedy struck on Thursday (August 14, 2025). Buried under mud and debris when a Maggi-point shop was hit by flash floods, she emerged hours later, rescued by her uncle and other villagers. 'I couldn't breathe. My uncle, bouji, and others removed wooden planks after hours, and we all came out. Mata saved us,' she says, the terror still vividly reflected in her voice. Like her, 32-year-old Sneha is still in disbelief that she is alive. Moments after loading luggage onto their vehicle, she and her four family members were swept away in a roaring torrent, buried under mud and crushed beneath a vehicle. "I was trapped in mud under a vehicle, surrounded by bodies — some of them children with broken necks and severed limbs. I lost hope of my survival," she says. Somehow, they clawed their way out. At least 60 people lost their lives when a massive cloudburst led to flash floods in this remote mountain village in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district. Every survivor here carries a story about escaping from the very jaws of death. 'We stopped at a Maggi shop. People told us to run (because of the cloudburst), but we stayed back, thinking it was safe here,' Devanshi says, narrating her ordeal. Within minutes, a large mass of mud collapsed over the shop. 'Mata saved us,' she repeats as she recounts how her family members and villagers pulled her out of the debris. She was taken to a hospital along with other family members, where she was given first aid. Sneha from Jammu says she had felt it was all over for her after being washed away and buried under a vehicle. 'As we reached our vehicles, we heard a loud bang and saw a cloudburst over the hill,' she recalled. In no time, a wall of mud, boulders, and trees swept them towards the Chenab River, trapping them. "My father managed to free himself first, then helped me out. I pulled my mother out from under an electric pole. She was barely conscious and badly injured,' she said. She said some villagers were washed away into the Chenab. 'Bodies lay everywhere. The entire hill had come down. Even the Thakur ji idol of Chittoo Mata Temple was washed away before our eyes.' Sneha says the swift action of officials, police, the Army, CRPF, and locals saved countless lives. 'Within an hour, vehicles arrived to take the injured to hospitals. If they had been late, many more would have died,' she said. The sudden roar of water, the deafening blast, and the avalanche of mud, boulders, and trees turned Chositi village into a scene of unimaginable destruction within seconds. A cloudburst high above the hills triggered flash floods that swallowed homes, vehicles, and lives, leaving survivors in shock and grief. The shocking scenes of physical and psychological trauma unfolded on a massive scale as search and rescue operations were underway, digging out mud-buried bodies and rescuing the injured. Sudhir from Udhampur was with a group of 12 when the "sky and earth seemed to collapse together". 'After the blast sound, the whole area was filled with fog and dust,' he recalled. 'Most of my group members were trapped in slush. My wife and daughter were buried under other people. At the bridge construction site, I saw dozens swept into the Chenab. It took seconds for the hill to bury everything.' Blood-stained bodies, mud-filled lungs, shattered ribs, and deep wounds packed with stones — these are just some of the harrowing injuries sustained by people, including pilgrims and security personnel, caught in the aftermath of the catastrophic cloudburst in the foothill hamlet of Chositi. Undergoing treatment at the hospital, Sunita Devi from Nanak Nagar said, 'I was running when I fell, and some women fell on me. An electric pole hit me and I got a severe shock. I was looking for my son the whole time. We all survived… Mata Rani saved us.' Others were not so fortunate. Uma from Jammu clung to a vehicle tyre to avoid being swept away. 'A policeman saved me. But my sister, Gahna Raina, is still missing,' she said. Vaishali Sharma, who was in a 15-member group, said they ran into a shop for shelter when told about the cloudburst. 'It was around 12:15 PM when we neared the bridge. We were told to run and took shelter in a shop, but it caved in under mud and boulders. I was caught between the rocks. I don't know where my parents are. Thanks to the Army, I and five others were rescued.' Rescuers, including personnel from the Army, police and CRPF and villagers, continued to pull out survivors and retrieve bodies late into the night. Officials said the quick response helped prevent a higher death toll. Additional Superintendent of Police Pradeep Singh said all forces were engaged in the massive search-and-rescue effort. 'SDRF, Army, CRPF, CISF, Police — everyone is on the ground". He said that locals too played a huge role, especially over 20 bikers led by Ganga Ram, who ferried injured people from Chositi to Hamori as the road was cut off by the flooded nallah. "Without them, more lives would have been lost.' 'This has been a battle against death,' a rescue worker said.
Time of India
23-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
From New Delhi to Singapore: How SIM Global Education Shaped Devanshi Soni's Global Journey
When Devanshi Soni first visited Singapore in 2017 as a teenager on vacation, she felt an instant connection. 'I remember thinking, 'I want to live here one day,'' she recalls. Years later, that vision became reality. Today, Devanshi is a proud graduate of the University of London (UOL)'s Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Business and Management programme at SIM Global Education (SIM GE) and is now building a purposeful career as a Sustainability Consultant at Sustainable Living Lab (SL2) in Singapore — a transformation deeply shaped by her academic and personal experiences in Singapore and at SIM GE. SIM: A Leader in Global Education For over 60 years, the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) has evolved as an International Institute of Higher Learning, committed to empowering individuals and strengthening talent and employability for all seasons of life. By maximising learners' potential and providing accessible, flexible learning pathways, SIM enables individuals, businesses, and society to Learn for Life and Thrive for Life in a fast-changing world. As a key entity of SIM, SIM GE has been at the forefront of private higher education, offering over 140 diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate programmes in partnership with top universities from Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States. With globally recognised qualifications and a vibrant, multicultural learning environment, SIM GE equips students with industry-relevant skills, global perspectives, and the confidence to thrive — whether they are starting their first degree or advancing to postgraduate study. It remains a top choice for students across Asia seeking a global education. Today, SIM GE is home to over 16,000 students annually from more than 50 countries and boasts a global network of over 200,000 alumni. Its tagline, 'Learn for Life, Thrive for Life, ' reflects SIM's commitment to lifelong learning, leadership development, and global career readiness. 'SIM wasn't just where I studied — it's where I found my voice.' Devanshi's decision to pursue her degree at SIM was influenced by both academic and personal factors. 'The University of London programme was academically rigorous, and SIM's vibrant campus life promised opportunities for holistic development,' she shares. Her journey, however, began in an unusual way — 10 days in COVID-19 isolation. 'It was overwhelming at first, but SIM supported me from day one. That is when I first felt the warmth of the SIM community.' She quickly immersed herself in campus life, becoming a Student Ambassador and taking on leadership roles in student clubs such as the SIM Young Entrepreneur Network, the Investment & Networking Club, and the SIM Economics Society. She also represented SIM at international events such as the ESSEC Hackathon, where her team won first place for a sustainable saltwater lamp prototype. From Campus to Community Impact Beyond academics, SIM empowered Devanshi to lead with purpose. Volunteering with Youth Corps Singapore, she befriended elderly residents and participated in grassroots sustainability outreach. She also founded the Paalan Foundation, a youth-led NGO in Delhi that champions menstrual hygiene and educational access. 'These experiences taught me that young people don't need permission to lead change,' she reflects. 'SIM gave me the confidence to take that first step.' Real-World Preparation and Career Success SIM's academic environment challenged Devanshi to think critically and communicate effectively. 'It wasn't just about memorising facts — it was about developing real-world skills,' she says. Through SIM's career development centre, Career Connect, she received mentorship, career support, and placement opportunities, eventually receiving two job offers upon graduation — both through her own initiative. 'In my role today, I'm doing purposeful work I care deeply about — and I credit SIM for laying the foundation,' she says. Her proudest moment? Receiving the SIM EDGE Award, a holistic recognition of excellence in academics, university and community involvement, leadership, and professional development. 'It validated my growth and reminded me how far I've come.' A Parent's Perspective: "She Became a Global Citizen" Devanshi's parents were initially apprehensive about sending their daughter abroad. 'Safety was our top concern,' they share. 'Singapore offered peace of mind, a high standard of living, and a nurturing multicultural environment.' What reassured them most was SIM's structure — clear communication, strong academic credentials, and a comprehensive student support system. 'SIM's partnership with the University of London gave us confidence in the academic quality. We saw Devanshi transform into a self-assured, articulate young woman.' Their advice to fellow Indian parents? 'Choose a university where your child will be supported, seen, and stretched. For us, SIM was that place.' Why More Indian Students Are Choosing SIM Singapore has increasingly emerged as a popular study destination for Indian students — offering safety, proximity to home, cultural familiarity, and world-class education. Within this ecosystem, SIM Global Education stands out for: Partnerships with globally ranked universities Strong career services and alumni networks Student clubs and experiential learning A campus community that values diversity and inclusion As Devanshi puts it, 'SIM gives you the platform — but it is up to you to make the most of it. Everything you do here adds up.' In Conversation: Devanshi and Her Family Reflect Devanshi and her parents shared candid insights into their journey: Q: What drew you to SIM for your undergraduate studies? Devanshi: The University of London degree, combined with SIM's vibrant campus life and diverse student clubs, made it the ideal place for both academic growth and personal development. Q: How did being a Student Ambassador shape you? Devanshi: It gave me confidence and purpose. Mentoring new students taught me to lead with empathy and authenticity. Q: What will you miss most about SIM? Devanshi: The people — especially my professors and peers. And, of course, the comforting mala noodles at Food Clique! Q: As parents, what stood out to you about SIM? Devanshi's Parents : The organised structure, focus on student wellbeing, and global recognition of the degree gave us peace of mind. More importantly, we watched our daughter grow in confidence, compassion, and capability. A Launchpad for Life Devanshi Soni's story — from New Delhi to Singapore, from student to sustainability consultant, is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of a purpose-driven education. With global exposure, real-world experiences, and a deeply supportive community, SIM GE empowers students to thrive in an increasingly complex world. For Indian students seeking a future-ready education in Asia's innovation hub, SIM GE offers more than a degree — it offers a launchpad for life. Find out more about SIM Global Education via or contact Ms. Tricha Vasta, Country Manager (India), SIM at trichav@ Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Time of India
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Celebrating new beginnings
(L) Deep Chatterjee's soulful vocals enchanted the guests (R) The soft sound of the flute transported the city folk into a melodious trance like state (BCCL/ Manas Mishra) Bengali Club, Lucknow , recently celebrated Poila Boishakh — the first day of Baisaakh and Bengali New Year , with full fervour and pomp. The grounds of the club were bustling with energy as a large crowd gathered, dressed in elegant traditional attire. Each guest was warmly welcomed with Bengali sweet, Darbesh, setting the tone for a day of joyful celebration. (L) Abhijit Sarkar (R) Abha Kala (L) Sumedha Sen (R) Trisha Sinha (L) Ritisha Mukherjee (R) Rupa Mukherjee (L) Enakshi Sinha (R) Leena Johri and Partha Sarthi Sen Sharma (L) Debashish Chanda (R) Devanshi Adding a musical touch to the day was a live performance by Deep Chatterjee, a finalist of a popular musical reality show, and his band Matan from Kolkata. Arun Banerjee , the president of the club, was seen actively managing the event, ensuring everything went smoothly. — Manas Mishra (L) Arun Banerjee and Alkananda Banerjee (R) Bhithika Bose (L) Anjali Ranjana (R) Anupriya Vohra
