Latest news with #NeetaBhushan
Otago Daily Times
16-05-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Indian community making an impact: commissioner
Indian High Commissioner Neeta Bhushan (left) sparked off the smile train with Anu John and Aswathy Vijayan at a business talk held at Hansen Hall, Invercargill on Wednesday. PHOTO: NINA TAPU The people of Invercargill are helping shape the relationship between India and New Zealand, India's High Commissioner says. High Commissioner of India to New Zealand Neeta Bhushan visited Invercargill on Wednesday. She said it was important to hear a wide range of views, including those of the significant Indian diaspora living in Invercargill, because they would help determine future agreements between the two countries. "When our two countries strengthen our partnership even further, the views of the people matter the most because it [is shaped by] ... how does it impact people" Ms Bhushan said. The High Commissioner's visit to Invercargill included meetings with representatives of the Southland Chamber of Commerce, Southland Institute of Technology (SIT) and members of the estimated 1000-family-strong Indian diaspora living in Southland. Ms Bhushan also took part in a panel discussion on May 14. Free trade negotiations between India and Aotearoa were top of mind for the Invercargill Indian community, she said. Many were involved in business and were keen to promote trade between India and New Zealand. "They do have concerns... about the free trade negotiations... and they have been asking about how long it will take, what are the dimensions of this negotiation, which aspects of it are being discussed." Southland's farming and manufacturing industries offered potential for increased exports to India. Potential imports from India could include services as well as goods such as apparel, automotive components and jewellery. "When we sign an MOU (memorandum of understanding), whether it is in the sector of forestry, horticulture or culture, sports, any field... what can we do to make them even more impactful and make it even better for everyone? "So, that's why they need to come and they need to discuss all these issues together." She was encouraged by the impact the Indian community was having in Invercargill. "I am amazed to see that the diaspora members are deeply invested in both countries. "They are into various sectors and they contribute very well to the society." Invercargill deputy mayor Tom Campbell and SIT operations lead Daryl Haggerty also took part in the panel discussion.
RNZ News
12-05-2025
- Politics
- RNZ News
India consular delays caused by errors related to application payments
Indian High Commissioner to New Zealand Neeta Bhushan has rebuffed criticism on social media regarding delays in consular services provided by the Indian mission in Wellington and the new consulate general in Auckland . Kiwi Indians have been increasingly critical on social media of delays they have encountered in receiving consular services such as passport renewals and visa applications in recent months, especially if refunds were involved. Speaking at an event in Auckland on Friday to welcome Indian Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita, Bhushan said many applicants in the top of the North Island were mistakenly sending fees accompanying their applications to Wellington. "We are facing a major problem in providing timely and efficient services," Bhushan said. "There are a large number of applicants living in Northland, Auckland and Waikato who should send their applications along with the relevant fees to the consulate general in Auckland, but they are not doing that. "While they send their applications to the consulate in Auckland, they send the fees to the Wellington mission. "Later they realise their mistake and ask for refunds. ... We have no problem in doing that - it's our duty - but it delays the entire process. Neeta Bhushan is India's high commissioner to New Zealand. Photo: RNZ / Blessen Tom Bhushan said about half of her staff's time was being spent on processing refunds. "In the last month alone, we have refunded about $100,000 to applicants. If you add the last three [or] four months, the amount of refunds we have issued would cross $400,000," she said. "More than that, we are not able to provide timely services to those applicants." As reported earlier, the Indian consulate in Auckland offers services related to passports, Indian citizenship, attestation of documents, police certificates, birth and death certificates, liquor permits and non-resident Indian certificates, among other things. It also issues necessary certificates for the repatriation of deceased individuals' remains or ashes to India. The consulate's jurisdiction covers Auckland, Northland and Waikato. Madan Mohan Sethi, consulate general of India in Auckland, said the situation would improve once his office was fully staffed in a few months. "All efforts are being made to streamline the processes at our end," Sethi said. "We aim to start providing all consular services here in Auckland soon, including OCI [Overseas Citizen of India] and visa services." Pabitra Margherita is India's minister of state for external affairs. Photo: RNZ / Blessen Tom Margherita told attendees at the community event on Friday that he was delighted to see the Indian community's positive contributions to New Zealand. "It is heartening to see that our community here has been an integral part of the social fabric of this beautiful country," he said. "Your dedication and hard work have not only uplifted you and your families but also have added immense value to broader New Zealand society," he said. "India and New Zealand share a deep, multifaceted and friendly relationship." The Indian minister met Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Trade Minister Todd McClay during his three-day visit. He also spoke with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on the sidelines of a summit organised by the India New Zealand Business Council on Friday morning . The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade provided some detail on the talks between Peters and Margherita in a social media post on Friday. The two ministers discussed the progress made in the India-New Zealand relationship across a wide range of sectors, including a "broad-based agenda for bilateral security and economic cooperation", the ministry said. "[They discussed] achieving a mutually beneficial outcome to free trade agreement negotiations, our shared interests in the Indo-Pacific, the terrorist attack in Kashmir and New Zealand's support for de-escalation between India and Pakistan, and the Pacific Islands region."
Associated Press
15-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
The Brave Table Makes its UAE Debut
DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES, April 15, 2025 / / -- The Brave Table Podcast celebrated a major milestone on Friday 11 April 2025, with a sold-out, soul-stirring live event marking its 300th episode and three-year anniversary. Hosted by Dr. Neeta Bhushan, the evening welcomed over 100 guests to the beautiful Sohum Wellness Centre for an intimate night of storytelling, connection and personal transformation. Guests from wellness, health and holistic circles gathered to rewrite the stories that no longer serve them, reflect on worthiness and relationships, and soak in brave conversations that touched the heart. The event marked the official UAE launch of The Brave Table Live - Neeta's new in-person experience designed to bring meaningful dialogue and deep community to life. It was a true family affair, with Neeta's loved ones present in full support - including her husband Ajit Nawalkha, co-founder of Mindvalley, their son and daughter, and extended family. In a touching and playful moment, Neeta's son rallied the crowd to announce her arrival in 20 minutes, and Ajit later took the stage to offer a warm and heartfelt introduction, before gathering the audience for a joyous group photo. 'To share this moment surrounded by family, friends and a community of open-hearted souls was truly beyond anything I imagined,' said Dr. Neeta Bhushan. 'This wasn't just about celebrating 300 episodes - it was about creating space for real, brave conversations, and honoring the journey it takes to show up fully.' Guests came with high energy to witness the one and only Marisa Peer, who delivered a powerful live interview with Neeta, offering insight on how to show up in life free from limiting beliefs. The session ended with a rapid-fire round that had the audience both laughing and reflecting deeply. 'The energy in the room was electric,' said Marisa Peer. 'To witness the vulnerability, openness, and shared wisdom in that space was something truly special. It was an honor to be part of The Brave Table Live.' As a surprise guest, Gary Lineham, founder of Human Garage and a close friend of Neeta, was invited up from the audience to share his advocacy for nervous system healing and body-based wellness. Gary led the room through powerful somatic exercises to release tension and reconnect with the body, leaving everyone feeling both grounded and energised. The evening also showcased thoughtful contributions from sponsors. Dr. Jenna of Zoime Longevity Clinic, who shared how true wellness is a fusion of mind, body, soul, and science - from advanced lab testing to detox protocols and holistic care. The Health Nag highlighted a curated range of supplements designed to support gut health, energy and daily resilience. Sohum Wellness delivered activations throughout the night in their breathtaking new outdoor sanctuary - making its beautiful debut in the UAE. Guests experienced healing through the hands of sound healer Ian Manel, who led a deeply immersive sound bath, along with massages and intuitive tarot card readings. The all-vegan Sohum food and soul beverages nourished every guest from the inside out. Every attendee received a signed copy of Neeta's bestselling book, That Sucked. Now What?, along with a wellness-packed goodie bag sponsored by Scoop Wholefoods. Neeta went deep with her audience, asking brave questions and sparking vulnerable shares. The space became a mirror for healing, learning, and heartfelt connection. 'We learnt, we reflected, we connected - soul to soul,' Neeta shared on the night. 'From the incredible guests who came, to the friends who flew in from abroad, to the Sohum set-up of dreams, it was truly unforgettable. And to my husband - for introducing me with such love and for holding the masculine container that allows me to surrender into my feminine - I'm so grateful. So many women are stuck in a trauma response of doing it all; I'm lucky to have a safe space to lean into. And of course, to my kids hyping me up from the sidelines - I couldn't do this without you.' Thank you to everyone who came with open hearts and helped make another nourishing celebration with The Brave Table Live so meaningful.' The Brave Table Live was more than an event - it was a celebration of community, authenticity and the power of storytelling to heal and connect. For more details, visit or follow @thebravetable on Instagram. PR Contact: Gemma L'Appanna Founder and CEO, L'Atelier Consulting Email: [email protected] Phone: +971 555163914 About Dr. Neeta Bhushan A TEDx speaker, 5x award-winning author, and former cosmetic dentist turned emotional health advocate, Dr. Neeta Bhushan is the founder of The Brave Table, a top-ranked global podcast. Her work blends psychology, leadership, and wellness to help women overcome burnout, build emotional resilience, and rise with courage. Her best-selling book That Sucked. Now What? empowers women worldwide to reclaim their stories and step into their power. About Marisa Peer Marisa Peer is a globally recognized therapist, bestselling author, and the visionary behind Rapid Transformational Therapy® (RTT®), a method designed to free individuals from deep emotional and mental blocks. She has worked with global icons across industries and founded the viral I Am Enough movement, helping millions reframe their self-worth and unlock lasting transformation. Gemma LAppanna L'Atelier Public Relations + +971 55 516 3914 email us here Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
