Storizen Magazine June 2022 | Nick Maggiulli by Storizen Magazine

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june 2022

Celebrating 4 Years of Storizen!

THE PRACTICAL WAY OF BUILDING WEALTH BY SAVING AND INVESTING

NICK MAGGIULLI Exclusive Digital Issue For more Columns and features, scan the QR code

Exclusive Feature on PAGE 8

Cover Story The Practical Way of Building Wealth by Saving and Investing - Nick Maggiulli

Brand Partners Aleph Book Company Bloomsbury India Fingerprint Publishing Hachette India

Book Reviews Swapna Peri

Editors Pria Raiyani Saurabh Chawla

For Advertising, Contact us attalktous@storizen.com

HarperCollinsIndia Pan Macmillan India Penguin India Roli Books Rupa Publications Westland (An Amazon Company)

CONT ENTS 07

HOT OFF THE PRESS The Pomegranate Peace by Rashmee Roshan Lall - Hachette India

STORIZEN TRAVEL Revisiting adventures...

EDITORS NOTE

- Madhumathi H.

COVER STORY

STORIZEN TRAVEL An Unexpected Experience

The Practical Way of Building Wealth by Saving and Investing - Nick Maggiulli

- Neelakshi Banerjee

- Pria & Swapna Peri

HOT OFF THE PRESS

When can you Retire

The Map and The Scissors A Novel by Amit Majmudar - HarperCollins India

- Nick Maggiulli

HOT OFF THE PRESS

HOT OFF THE PRESS Win All Your Battles by Vishwas Nangre Patil - HarperCollins India

STORIZEN INTERVIEW An aesthetic interview with the Founders of Raqs Media Collective

From Space to Sea: My ISRO Journey and Beyond by Abraham E. Muthunayagam - HarperCollins India

STORIZEN EXCERPT

- Riya Gulati

STORIZEN NEWS Escape – By The Youth Of India, a Unique Travel Anthology - Moe's Art

STORIZEN HEALTH

Talk to ME

The Vixen by Ketaki Patwardhan Nirkhi

- Ankur Rastogi

STORIZEN TRAVEL

- Swapna Peri

Aurangabad

STORIZEN HEALTH

- Swapna Peri

How to Deal with Stress? - Sushma M. Bhardwaj

- Swapna Peri

STORIZEN POETRY Where Do I Want To Travel?

STORIZEN REVIEWS Yoga for Super Immunity by Bijoylaxmi Hota

STORIZEN REVIEWS Siddhartha Street by Sudha Yadav

STORIZEN REVIEWS Aasma-I-Noor by Sudipta Sen Gupta

STORIZEN REVIEWS Smile – it costs nothing by Prateek Singh

STORIZEN REVIEWS Ecstacy by Prasupta Roy

STORIZEN REVIEWS Operations Pakistan Terror Strike by Dwayne Pimenta

- Ankita Srivastava

STORIZEN REVIEWS

- Aparna Mukherjee

STORIZEN HOROSCOPE Monthly Horoscope: July 2022 - Himani Goyal

To read Storizen on the web, visit storizen.com. Follow Storizen on Instagram @storizenmag.

BOOKMARKED

Storizen Magazine May 2022

Books we are loving this month

CLICK HERE TO READ NOW! Exclusive Digital Issue For more columns and features, scan below

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from the editor

calling all writers!

DO YOU WANT TO BE A PART OF STORIZEN FAMILY? You can also be a contributor. Mail us your entries at talktous@storizen.com. Your smart ideas and inputs help us create our informative issues.

"A dventures are the best way to learn. What best adventure can be other than traveling to an unknown place? We all have been there, isn't it? We dedicated this month to travel and loved reading all your travel stories and experiences. For everything, money is needed. Even for traveling, you need money. You can get it by savings and investments. How you can achieve that and build your wealth around that? We are super excited to share with you that we bring you The Practical Way of Building Wealth by Saving and Investing with Nick Maggiulli in the Storizen Exclusive Cover Feature. Do check it out on page 8! Book lovers' hunger is satiated with reading. We have got you covered. Do check out our treasure of book collections inside and satisfy your reading hunger. Stress is the biggest issue causing mental health problems nowadays. In Storizen Health this month, we bring you ways to deal with stress. What are the stars holding for you for the month of July 2022? Do check out your monthly horoscope inside by Tarot Reader Himani Goyal. Packed with powerful interviews, deep insights into health and fitness along with light poetry and stories, you are definitely going to read this issue again and again. We loved reading all the submissions, articles, and poems we received & are overwhelmed with such a wonderful response from our readers. Keep showering your love & blessings so we can share with you more impactful content every month. Happy Reading! editor@storizen.com Saurabh Chawla, Editor in Chief

COVER STORY

Nick Maggiulli, Author Just Keep Buying

COVER STORY

The Practical Way of Building Weath by Saving and Investing

NICK MAGGIULLI A Storizen Exclusive Feature Text by Pria People struggle in almost all aspects of their lives with exceptions of course. The primary area they struggle with the most in their lives is finances. You may have heard some rags to riches stories as well as riches to rags. How do maintain the finances? Does savings really work? How are the dynamics of finance changing across the world? How you can use the correct knowledge of personal finance management to build wealth and retire early? Nick Maggiulli's latest book "Just Keep Buying" has the answers for you! Nick Maggiulli is the founder of "Of Dollars And Data" where he shares how you can make better financial decisions using the best information available. He is also the Chief Operating Officer at Ritholtz Wealth

Management. He is passionate about personal finance and his latest book "Just Keep Buying" published in India by HarperCollins Publishers, can really help you deal with financial crunch if you have in your life. Let's dive into our conversation with the author himself.

COVER STORY

THE IMPORTANCE OF SAVING AND INVESTING

WHY USING CASH FOR A BIG PURCHASE IS A WISE DECISION

We personally feel that saving and investing is a key to building a secure financial future. Going by Nick's point of view on this, he believes that saving is much more important to build wealth. He says, "Saving is important because, without the ability to save money, you will never build wealth regardless of how good your investment returns are. If you don’t have a lot of money invested, your ability to save will be far more important than what your investments do in the market. As a result, you must save (and get that money invested) if you want to build wealth." Another point here is that if the people are really looking forward to building wealth or not. Some are impulsive buyers who go on a spendthrift on an impulse. Nick says that focusing on the right things is important to building wealth. "I think the most important thing in personal finance/investing is figuring out how to best use your time. I think there is plenty of time in most people’s lives to build wealth, the question is whether they are focusing on the right things. I discuss this indepth in ch.1 of Just Keep Buying and it’s the framework I use to guide all of my financial decisions."

Usually, for a big purchase like a car or a house, or a commercial property, people rely on credit. Nick says that using cash to make that big purchase is a wise decision in the long run. He says, " Though inflation in the U.S. is high right now (>8%), cash is still the best asset class to use when saving for a big purchase that will occur within the next few years. The reasoning is simple—cash has generally fluctuated less in value than stocks and bonds over a shorter time period. The issue with saving in stocks, bonds, or some other asset class is that these other asset classes are more volatile. This means that their prices fluctuate, therefore, you may end up having to save longer to get to your target amount." We listened to him intently and nodded in response.

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I don’t know the future of crypto, so be cautious here.

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COVER STORY

THE EFFECT ON THE PRICES OF STOCKS The financial markets have seen a downfall during the recent 2 years and we wanted to know whether a reasonable and appropriate return is feasible at present or not. Nick responded quickly. He says, "I guess the question comes down to what is a “large and appropriate return”. For my personal planning, I forecast 4% inflation-adjusted returns from a diversified portfolio going forward. This is below the 7% long-term inflation-adjusted return of the U.S. stock market, but my portfolio also contains income-

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producing assets other than just U.S. stocks. Is this conservative? Yes. But it is the return that I think is reasonable going forward. This doesn’t imply other numbers aren’t achievable, but I’d rather be conservative than wrong."

My position on this has always been that cryptocurrency should be a small portion of your total assets. STORIZEN MAGAZINE

In Just Keep Buying, hugely popular finance blogger Nick Maggiulli crunches the numbers to answer the biggest questions in personal finance and investing, while providing you with proven ways to build your wealth right away.

COVER STORY

THE FEEL RICH PHILOSOPHY People have a tendency of feeling rich over their peers which we believe everybody has once felt in their lifetime. As per Nick, he goes with the Never Feel Rich philosophy and there is a chapter also in the book dedicated to this. He says, "I think most people will never feel rich because as they gain wealth they will join new social circles where they will encounter people who are richer than everyone they knew previously. This cycle never ends. As a result, the only way to feel rich is to compare yourself to yourself.

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I think the most important thing in personal finance/investing is figuring out how to best use your time.

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COVER STORY

Compare yourself to where you were in the past and you might just be able to break this cycle." THE FUTURE OF CRYPTO OPTION OF REBALANCING

AND

As the youth is more inclined towards investing a part of their income in Cryptocurrencies, Nick says that one must be cautious while doing so. "My position on this has always been that cryptocurrency should be a small portion of your total assets. I have 2% of my investable net worth in it, but I don’t believe anyone should ever go above 5% due to the volatility. If you don’t believe me consider the fact that Bitcoin is trading below $25,000 as I am writing this after being above $68,000 less than a year ago." He continues, "I don’t know the future of crypto, so be cautious here. My investment philosophy is a regret minimization framework. Own the amount such that if it goes to $100k you

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won’t feel like an idiot, but if it goes to $0 you won’t feel that bad either." Also, we wanted to understand the rebalancing of the investments as it helps you to assess the returns you are getting as per the expectations. He says, "Yes, I think rebalancing should be done periodically. There is no right answer to “periodically” but I do it once a year for ease of use. There are different ways to rebalance your portfolio, but I like doing something called an accumulation to rebalance where you continually buy the most underweight asset in your portfolio to try and get it back to the target weight. For example, say you have a simple 60/40 stock/bond portfolio. After a year, your stocks have gone up and now it’s a 70/30 stock/bond portfolio. Instead of selling stocks to buy more bonds in rebalance, you could instead make all of your new purchases be 100% bonds until the balance of your portfolio is closer to 60/40 again. Of course, this requires that some is still accumulating

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COVER STORY

assets, but it is much easier from a tax perspective (since no selling is required)." Personally, Nick loves to exercise, listen to music, and find different ways to relax. He believes that Everyone is different so finding what works for you is more important than copying what works for someone else. We learned about personal finance and investments in a great deal. We thanked him for his time and we recommend you all to check out his latest book "Just Keep Buying" to know more about how savings and investments can help you build wealth.

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Connect with us on facebook.com/Storizenmag

About Pria - Young mesmerizing freelance blogger, social enthusiast, an economics graduate from Jharkhand University with Master in Child Psychology. She is hardworking yet crazy, a passionate reader, an ardent music fanatic, an avid caffeine lover, and a maniacal animal lover too. She has been a part of numerous anthologies, articles, and write-ups for newspapers and magazines which are multi-linguistic. She has also written screenplays for YouTube series. Contact: pria@storizen.com

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HOTthe OFFpress The Map and the Scissors is a novel about the epic origin story of modern South Asia, brought to life by two London-educated lawyers, mirrorimage rivals who dreamt the same dream of freedom—in catastrophically incompatible ways.

In From Space to Sea and Beyond, Muthunayagam looks back at the nascent phase of the Indian space programme, the breakthroughs, international collaborations, and professional rivalries and jealousies that were the highlight of his years at ISRO. Though he was eventually transferred from the organization, it did not signal the end of his career.

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HOTthe OFFpress Win All Your Battles, first published in Marathi as Kar Har Maidan Fateh, is the fascinating story of how Vishwas Nangre Patil rose from his humble village origins to become a steadfast, upright police officer and youth icon.

Life on the American compound in Kabul in 2011, just weeks after the most audacious attack on the US embassy in 10 years of war.

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Revisiting Adventures... by Madhumathi H

he interesting theme "Travel to an Unknown Place!", instantly took me back to 2000. And one unforgettable trekking experience to an unknown place, Peb fort. Traveled with my neighbor Sis, to MumbaiTIFR. Her brother was a Research Scholar there. My maternal aunt too was in Mumbai, and I planned to visit her too. 5 of us started trekking. The train lover in me enjoyed the journey. And being my first trekking experience, I was more excited and curious. (Peb fort, also known as Vikatgad, is located approximately 80 km from Mumbai.) As our trekking began, the adventure vibes filled my heart! Hardly any people around! Somehow I managed to climb uphills confidently in the initial hour but JUNE 2022

the real adventure began when it was challenging with a few steep paths, and I slipped at certain spots... My neighbor brother, sis, his wife, and another friend, all were quite experienced. They quietly climbed. But fear engulfed me when I was almost losing grip at a spot and all I screamed was, "MujheBachao", while they were slowly trekking ahead. I laugh now thinking of those moments, but it truly left me in panic then. They helped me climb up, and I had a sigh of relief! I grin, as I write. I trekked further cheerfully as if nothing happened, and unwinded, nourished by the breath-taking view all around, and screaming from the top of the hill, "I love you Nature/Krishna" hoping for an echo! Meanwhile, while I was gazing at Nature's beauty, along with 3 soul sisters, my brother made a quick climb STORIZEN MAGAZINE

to a farther cave and returned with Prasad(Sugar candy) for us from a Sadhu there. My aunt was anxious and scared, as we couldn't reach on time to her place due to the delay in completing our trek. We didn't have mobiles, too. She had waited in vain at the station to pick us up after the trek. Finally reached home, and we were welcomed with wholesome delicious food and all her love... One glimpse of the photographs of my first Mumbai trip, all memories gush... No digital copy too. The longing to revisit, and relive some of life's beautiful moments/phases, surfaces... Likewise, another unforgettable precious travel was to Scotland in 2012. The highlands are a boon for the Nature worshipper in me. My first experience at a farm where I felt so close to Nature, ran around, jumped, screamed, and spoke to the scenic lake, and to the farm animals that looked adorable. It was entirely soul-nourishing travel, the land filled with poetry, a lot of history, castles that carry mystery, and centuriesold stories... Especially the huge castles, and old buildings still make me go through 20

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inexplicable emotions... They speak to me in a mysterious language. And, I feel so comfortable and joyful to roam around in an unknown place, where nobody knows me...! I hope there are souls who share the same feeling. Travel is not about the destination but the journey. We travel inward too, with every step forward... It’s not the exotic places, but our heart, mind, and soul that makes every travel joyful, and meaningful. Looking forward to embracing all the surprises, and adventures life have in store, through future travels...

A bilingual poet-writer(Tamil, English), Madhumathi is an ardent lover of Nature, Poetry, Photography, and Music. Her poems are published in Anthologies of The Poetry Society(India), AIFEST 2020 Poetry contest Anthology, CPC- Chennai Poetry Circle, IPC – India Poetry Circle, Amaravati Poetic Prism, and in e-zines UGC approved Muse India, Storizen, OPA – Our Poetry Archives, IWJ International Writers Journal, Positive Vibes, and Science Shore. ‘’Ignite Poetry'’, “Arising from the dust”, “Painting Dreams", and “Shards of the unsung Poesies" are some of the recent Anthologies her poems, and write-ups are part of. Besides Poetry, Madhumathi writes on Mental health, to create awareness and break the stigma, strongly believing in the therapeutic and transformational power of words. Contact: madhumathi.poetry@gmail.com

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An Unexpected Experience BY NEELAKSHI BANERJEE

eople say traveling enhances the mental horizon, fills one with a sense of serenity, and ushers a subtle sense of revitalization. All of these came true for me in my small excursion to a rustic rural landscape of West Bengal called Mukutmanipur where I ventured with a group of close friends. What was programmed to be a 2-day respite was stretched to another day as we planned impromptu to visit the temple city of Vishnupur in the vicinity which proved to be the catalyst to make this trip worth writing. We planned for a weekend getaway from the city clamor and seek refuge in a boutique hotel encircled by the verdant foliage. We reached Mukutmanipur around dusk when the mellowed orange was tinging the horizon and the pallid glow of the twilight was creating a strange hoary halo on the tree tops. The hotel had individual rooms with attached balconies overlooking the Kangsabati river where frequent tourist boats were sailing and we waved hands at an overzealous group. The entire room décor from the furniture to the draperies to the rugs was traditional with a tangible rustic endemic touch.

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A huge manicured garden with blossomed zinnia, dahlia, roses, and marigold surmounted by hedges adorned the hotel front while the back had thick grooves of blossom-blanched Palash and sonajhuri trees. The quaint place clad in nature was not only nourishing to the eyes but was also revitalizing our energy. Tea and snacks had some soporific effect on us on that sultry summer evening and after a brief photo session, we indulged in a short slumber. Suddenly I saw the whole place deserted, cobwebs hanging from the ceiling instead of the chandeliers, the mahogany on the table in a deplorable state, a tattered carpet scantily covering the floor, and the motheaten draperies ushering a fragrance-less breeze blowing through the wilted gardens, the

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thriving hotel of moments before now in a state of abandonment. I jerked awake in a pool of my own perspiration. Now the room was plunged into pitch darkness with only a single streak of moonbeam illuminating the wall with its silvery pallor and a queer sound floating through the otherwise serene night air. Tentatively I walked outside and was bewildered to see the widest stretch of star-studded firmament twinkling unhindered as if a shimmering cloth had adorned the otherwise plain night sky. I followed the rhythmic beat and came across a group of local folks performing Santhal dance. Their colorful attire and impeccable synchronization fascinated me as they continued their dance on the grass-lined by wildflowers. As we continued our exploration of the hotel, suddenly I stepped onto a gigantic chess board sprawled in the backyard with the chess pieces standing tall almost reaching my waist reminding me of the Harry Potter movie. The next day was kept for sightseeing. The second-largest earthen dam of India on the Kangsabati river enclosed by crown-shaped hillocks on all sides was a point of an attraction along with sundry interesting places. At sundown we returned to our hotel, enervated and patting each other’s back for making a successful trip when suddenly a voice from behind said “It would be incomplete if you don’t visit Vishnupur.”We turned back to see a retreating figure, the shadow merging in 26

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the inky foliage. After some deliberation, we conceded to prolong our trip for a day as the name Vishnupur sparked some curiosity in our overcurious minds and heightened our traveling spirit. Without further ado, the next morning we started for Vishnupur, once a thriving town with majestic temples under the reign of the Malla dynasty during the 17thcentury. History allures me and places with a historical imprint ignite an unguarded interest in me. Automatically I started caressing the strap of my camera all the way on the car till we finally reached our destination and beheld a most mesmerizing view. Sheltered in the corners of the silent town are some of the most exquisite temples built with laterite or red bricks in terracotta tiles holding some of the most intricate designs and impeccable carvings were dextrously done by our prodigious ancestors depicting scenes of Ramayana and Mahabharata. The temples were mainly Ek-Ratna or Pancha-Ratna style with sloping roofs curving towards the top over the sanctum-sanctorium. The exquisite terracotta works of Shyam Rai temple with its immaculate precision and the highly captivating Madanmohan temple with the typical Bengali chala-type roof surmounted by a single tower enthralled me the most and I could only stand there silently venerating the caliber of our sculptors who were in no sense lesser than Michelangelo but are bereft of their due recognition. JUNE 2022

The picture of the temples now somewhat stranded and vacant, standing silently amid the coarsely grown grass with a little flock of scattered tourists here and there portrayed a picture of abandonment and desolation, amplified by sharp contrast to their once glory in the thriving Malla dynasty days. At that very moment, I pledged to write about them, to make people cognizant of the hidden treasures sheltered in the remote corners, and hoped, with proper advertisement and recreation centers like hotels and restaurants, the lost grandeur of this magical place can be reinstated. Nurturing a penchant for history,I read about the Nagara styles of temples and was mesmerized by merely seeing pictures of Dilwara temple of Mt Abu and Kailash temple of Ellora and was glad that this trip only enriched my experience further. The trail of perspiration running down my neck or the permanently curved eyebrows shielding the blazing sun was long forgotten as my concentration lay in fastidiously positioning my camera lens to take the best pictures.

My name is Neelakshi Banerjee. Recently I have developed a budding interest to delve through the subtle beauty of art and articulate my imaginations with the help of words. Music holds a pivotal place in my life. Though am an engineer by profession I believe both science and arts are equally imperative to make this world a more beautiful place.

@justice11254

As evening descended we decided to head home, all immersed in their own reverie, a pleasant silence playing in the car and suddenly my dream garnered much relevance. I returned home with a treasure trove of experience and a tranquil mind, our small trip evolved into an unexpected beautiful memory and I smiled subtly at the yellow-rimmed horizon. JUNE 2022

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BOOK EXCERPT

WHEN CAN YOU RETIRE? Book Excerpt taken from Just Keep Buying by Nick Maggiulli

BOOK EXCERPT

Imagine you had a crystal ball that could tell you your financial future. A magical orb that knew all your spending and investment returns over the next several decades. With such a device, we could perfectly plan out when you could retire to match your spending needs with your retirement income over time. Unfortunately, no such object exists. While we might be able to estimate your future spending based on your expected lifestyle in retirement, we have no idea what investment returns you will get nor how long you will live. This is why the Nobel Laureate William Sharpe called retirement the “nastiest, hardest problem in finance.”If it were easy, there wouldn’t be an entire industry dedicated to helping people navigate this period of their lives. Despite the difficulty of the problem, there are some simple rules you can use to determine when you can retire. One of the simplest is called The 4% Rule. The 4% Rule William Bengen was trying to figure out how much money retirees could withdraw from their portfolios each year

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without running out of money. In 1994 he published research that would revolutionize the financial planning world. Bengen found that retirees throughout history could have withdrawn 4% of a 50/50 (stock/bond) portfolio annually for at least 30 years without running out of money. This was true despite the fact that the withdrawal amount grew by 3% each year to keep up with inflation. Therefore, if someone had a $1 million investment portfolio, they would have been able to withdraw $40,000 in their first year, $41,200 in their second year, and so forth for at least 30 years before running out of money. In fact, running out of money while using the 4% rule has been historically unlikely. When expert financial planner Michael Kitces did an analysis of the 4% rule going back to 1870, he found that it, “quintupled wealth more often than depleting principal after 30 years.” But despite its overwhelming success, the 4% rule seems to be the limit when it comes to annual withdrawal rates. When Bengen tested a 5% withdrawal rate, he found that it was too high to consistently work throughout history. In some periods, the 5% withdrawal rate only gave retirees 20 years of income

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BOOK EXCERPT

before running out of money. Since this result wasn’t acceptable, he suggested 4% as the highest safe withdrawal rate going forward, and it stuck. The beauty of Bengen’s 4% rule was that it provided a simple solution to an otherwise complex problem. Figuring out how much you could spend during your first year of retirement was no longer a stressful decision, but an elementary calculation. More importantly, the rule could be used to figure out how much you would need to save for retirement in the first place.

To follow the 4% rule, you would need to save 25 times your expected spending in your first year of retirement. When you’ve reached this total amount of savings, you can retire. This is why I used this guideline in chapter 5 when discussing how getting a raise can affect your retirement savings. It was the 4% rule in disguise all along. Fortunately, you will probably need to save far less than 25 times your annual expenses to meet your retirement needs. Assuming you will get some sort of guaranteed income during retirement (

Given we know that you can spend 4% of your total retirement savings in your first year, then we know that: • 4% × Total Savings = Annual Spending Using a fraction instead of a percentage we get: • 1/25 × Total Savings = Annual Spending Multiply both sides by 25 to solve for Total Savings, and we get: • Total Savings = 25 × Annual Spending Tada! 30

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BOOK EXCERPT

for example from Social Security), then you only need to save 25 times your expected spending above this future income. For example, if you plan to spend $4,000 a month in retirement and expect to receive $2,000 a month in Social Security benefits, then you only need to save enough to cover the excess $2,000 a month, or $24,000 a year. We will call this your Annual Excess Spending. Therefore, the equation to determine how much you need to save is: • Total Savings = 25 × Annual Excess Spending Using this rule means that you would need to save $600,000 in order to retire ($24,000 × 25). In your first year of retirement, you would withdraw the $24,000. In your second year, you would increase your withdrawal amount by 3% to $24,720, and so forth. Despite the simplicity of Bengen’s 4% rule, it does have its naysayers. For example, one common argument against is that it was created at a time when yields on bonds and dividend yields on stocks were much higher than

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they are today. As a result, some financial professionals have suggested that the 4% rule doesn’t hold anymore. Since yield is just the income you receive from a bond or stock over a given period of time if yields drop so does your income. So if you paid $1,000 for a bond with a 10% yield, you would receive $100 in income each year from it. However, if bonds are only paying a 1% yield, then the most income you could generate from a $1,000 investment is only $10 a year. The same logic holds for dividend yields on stocks as well. While yields have fallen over time, Bengen argues that the 4% rule still holds. In an October 2020 episode of the Financial Advisor Success Podcast, he argued that the safe withdrawal rate has likely increased from 4% to 5% because inflation is lower today than it was in the past. As he stated: “When you have a low inflation environment, your withdrawals are also going up much more slowly. So, there’s an o8set to the lower returns that you can’t ignore.”51 If Bengen’s logic holds, then the 4% rule may still be the simplest way to answer the question, “When can you retire?” However, as much as I like the 4% rule,

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BOOK EXCERPT

it assumes that spending for retirees stays constant over time. When we look at the data, it suggests otherwise— spending declines as people get older.

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To know more, get the book now!

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An Aesthetic interview with the Founders of Raqs Media Collective

Raqs Media Collective (RMC) was founded in 1992 by Shuddhabrata Sengupta, Jeebesh Bagchi and Monica Narula who are intense artists, curators, researchers, editors, media practitioners and philosophical agent provocateurs.

What motivates you of creating unique masterpieces? Who are your biggest artistic influences? Our focus is on orienting ourselves to a varied sense of time. About how we experience duration, the past, the present, and the future. We are acutely sensitive to our surroundings, and receive all kinds of signals, which we process, modify and transmit. Our biggest artistic influence relates to everyday life. We have often considered the turbulence of the city, wherein challenges to sovereign power are nurtured on an almost daily basis. For instance, our recent work, The Laughter of Tears reflected on how satire and humor confront authority, in a way that moved between past and present, and different histories, including natural histories. Which area of art are you interested in? Is there any other area you would like to discover? The freedom that contemporary art proffers is quite expansive. It does not privilege any one medium or form. We create all types of work - be it moving

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images, text-image assemblages, sculptures, or digital objects. Recently, we have been thinking and doing research on Artificial Intelligence - and we are considering how that thinking might express itself in our artistic work. What is the significance of creativity in your life? Creativity is the engine of our art practice, and of any art practice. Collectively, all three of us actively communicate, understand each other perspectives and give due regard to our curiosities. Friendship, creativity, and curiosity are the bridges that connect us to each other and to our work. How do you interpret the meaning of your artwork? Is it spontaneous or deeply dived? We put a lot of energy while researching, so you can say that there is a lot of ‘deep diving’. For instance, for our film, Deep Breath, we actually shot underwater with deep-sea divers in the Aegean Sea, but that decision arose from a lot of research that connected a submarine archaeological excavation with

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contemporary processes in Athens. The decision to work with divers was more or less ’spontaneous’ but it emerged out of a long-duration engagement with the rhythm of different times. So, yes, you can say that there is room for both spontaneity and depth in our work. What techniques do you use? Is there any specific environment or material that is fundamental for your work? We use everything from sound to architecture to software to video to textiles. We also use ideas, languages (whether said or unsaid), words, and the shape of alphabets. Our work is flexible. It adapts to different environments, contexts, and ambiances. Do you think enhances one’s personality?

that creativity mentality and

Of course, it does! Creativity is vital in our society and culture. It keeps alive the possibility of thinking ‘outside the box, it renews the resources of our imagination, encourages selfexpression, and stimulates novel ideas. How can society?

art

significant

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Art makes it possible for us to think about fundamental things in nonstereotypical ways. Like how we experience time, and what we do with time. It can make us question how and why we value things. It can extend our horizons of time and space. Art enriches our experiences and can serve as an indispensable medium for communication. Which personality trait do you have that has helped you in expressing yourself through your art? The key personality trait of our collective is an igniting combination of uniqueness; passion for qualitative thinking; deep analytical, emotive, and observational skills; and willingness to reflect on time and evolution.

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What’s the most essential advice you possess with regards to your creative techniques? The wise advice that was bestowed to us was to work with the idea of imperfection. No artwork is ever finished, by this, we imply that everyone opens avenues for further refurbishment, modulation and redecoration. Henceforth, the work of making art is limitless. What message do you have for the budding artists who are trying to express themselves through their artwork?

Riya Gulati is a Paralegal at Law Offices of Caro Kinsella, Ireland. She is LL.M (Intellectual Property & Information Technology) from University College Dublin & BA.LLB from Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University.

You must never lose hope and most importantly, be patient with yourself, and with this time. Please don’t get too obsessed with the commercial success. The time spent in anonymity is not invaluable. From our end, we are always encouraging young artists to create structures of solidarity and connect with each other, as this will channelize their thinking into a unique and undiscovered spectrum.

JUNE 2022

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goSTOPS, in association with The Write Order, launches ‘Escape – By The Youth Of India’, a Unique Travel Anthology

Every traveler is a storyteller and every destination has a story to tell… With an intent to bring together this shared passion and love for travel, goSTOPS, India’s fastest-growing backpacker hostel brand, in association with The Write Order Publications, has released a special-edition travel anthology, ‘Escape – By the Youth of India’. This first-of-a-kind collection comprises more than 100 captivating short stories and poems penned by young travelers from across the country. ‘Escape – By the Youth of India’ captures stories of different travelers and their experiences, be it an adrenaline-pumping adventure, a breath-taking landscape, or a quiet, offbeat location. Through these interesting anecdotes, the book presents a rare, tangible reflection of the wonders of travel. Delighted with the release of this book, Pallavi Agarwal, Founder & CEO goSTOPS, said, “goSTOPS has been seizing every opportunity to serve young backpackers with unique experiences. We wanted to save these memories through anecdotes from across the country while giving back to the evolving Indian travel community. We teamed up with The Write Order to capture the pulsating thrill every traveler feels whenever a new place pops up on their wish list. The result is a thrilling, heart-warming anthology! I

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hope that the incredible narratives in this book resonate with everyone who loves traveling and inspire more youngsters to travel.” ‘Escape – By the Youth of India’ provides a great documented experience for, and of, every traveler. The anthology is available across all online and offline stores.

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Pallavi Agarwal, Founder & CEO goSTOPS

About goStops

About The Write Order

goSTOPS is India’s fastest-growing backpacker hostel brand co-founded by Pallavi Agarwal and Pankaj Parwanda in 2014. The company today has a geographical footprint in some of the major tourist spots in the country. goSTOPS has hosted more than 5, 00,000 travelers across its 32 properties with 3000+ beds. The audience is typically between 18 to 30 years and comprises a cross-section of solo travelers, group travelers, backpackers, digital nomads, and individuals seeking interesting stay or work from hostel options. It is a full-stack operator brand that leases and transforms budget hotels and operates them as backpacker hostels. goSTOPS aim is to focus on the cultural revolution catering to the Gen-Z and create an accommodation brand they can call their own.

The Write Order Publications is a Pratilipi group company & is India's fastest growing publication house based out of Bangalore, Karnataka. They publish books in all the genres from fiction to nonfiction, poetry, autobiographies, Novel, biographies, technical/educational books, Business, horror, legal/law, etc.

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JUNE 2022

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AC hil d

ure ss re

a on Paren m tal li em P D

Talk to ME by

Ankur R Gupta

in the school. However, over the past few months, he has transformed into a brooding sulking self. He stays secluded in his room and rarely conversed with us or his friends. His grades are slipping down & the teachers often complain about his nonparticipation in any event.

o not confine your children to your learning, for they were born in a different time.”- Hebrew Proverb Reena was sitting in her posh office at Bandra engrossed in reading an article on Child psychology in India Times when Mary her secretary informed her that Mr. and Mrs. Shyam have come to meet her. Reena was a renowned child psychologist. It’s our 16-year-old son, Amit, said, Mrs. Shyam as she entered Reena’s chamber with her husband. We are very much concerned about him. Please have a seat first Mr. & Mrs. Shyam requested Reena. As they seated the fine lines of worry on their faces were more apparent. Hmm, yes, now tell me about your son, asked Dr. Reena with a smile. Dr. Reena my son Amit, spoke. Shyam has always been an intelligent, exuberant child. An all-rounder who loves to participate in all the activities JUNE 2022

We tried talking to him many times, but he has completely shut us from him, added the concerned parents. After talking to the parents in detail, Reena agreed to be Amit’s counselor. The first look at Amit and Reena saw a bewildered-looking boy who seems to be all lost. In the next few sessions with Amit, Dr. Reena understood that he was the classic case of the old school of parenting, where the parents assigned the path of a child with lists of restrictions and expect a child to adhere to it. They pay negligible attention to what the child desires and wishes. In one of his sessions, Amit told Reena,'' My parents are doctors and aspire me to be one. Since my early days of childhood, it was fed in me that I have to be a doctor and so should excel in my academics. But as I grew up, I realized that my interest lies somewhere else. But whenever I tried talking it out with my parents, I was shrugged off immediately. I soon realized it's no point talking to them as they will not understand my dreams because they consider them frivolous". STORIZEN MAGAZINE

In the next session, he said, "My parents raised me with a list of Dos & Don’t and was not permitted to bypass these lists. I was not allowed to discuss much but only "listen & follow". "To please my parent, I kept following what they wanted me to do". "But, with time, I feel this weight of expectations is blowing off my mind and made me a recluse". Amit was a classic case of how parental pressure can impact a child's mental health. Reena understood it was not Amit but his parents who needed counseling. When the parents were, apprised about it, they were shocked. They were oblivious to their son’s sufferings as they always thought that they were giving their child their best. I thought as a father I’m securing a formidable future for my son, said Mr. Shyam, sighing heavily. I and my wife never felt the need to discuss it, as we felt that he is not mature enough to make decisions (a common error made by most of the parents). Mr. Shyam then confessed, that on many occasions they trivialize Amit’s efforts to speak his mind on his career inclinations and other things. Dr. Reena listened to the distressed parents patiently and then spoke factually. “Mr. and Mrs. Shyamfirst you’ve to learn to acknowledge that your son is no more a young child but a maturing-up adult. He has his own set of thoughts, dreams, and aspirations. He needs to be

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heard and convinced with reasonable conversation and not with a list of conditions. There is a fine line between caring and caring too much. Often, we as parents make a common error by thinking that we are providing a good future for our kids and sideline what the Child wants, especially when the child is now a growing teenager. Your son’s mood swings, sulking, insecurity, and short tempers are an outcome of this frustration building inside him. The frustration of not being heard and understood by his parents. Reena then paused for a while and spoke again. You both need to open up the channel of flexible communication with your son and be good listeners rather than dominating speakers. Give a handful ear to his worries & dilemmas. Do not shoo him away when he wants to ask questions and discuss things related to him. Appreciate your teen’s efforts and encourage him toAsk, Discuss& Decide.

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The key to your child’s exuberant growth is as a parent you have to be his companion, mentor, and not an Authoritative Preacher. The generic error we make as parents Parents, in their quest to give the best to their natural descendants(children), try to push them on an assigned path. And, often remain oblivious to a need of a young mind, who has arrived in this world with its temperament, personality, and goals to achieve. Childhood should never be anything like a hamster wheel. And, if you’re following it then as parents you need to stop and allow kids to choose their path and set their own pace. While setting a goal for them it should be more of their vision and not yours. And, whenever they want to change direction, slow down, or stop completely, as parents we must allow the child the freedom to do so. As a parent, you shouldn’t assume that you command your adolescent life. Do not follow an iron fist methodology, trust me, it will backfire. You’ve to be a progressive mentor that provides them with the “Option to explore and choose”.However, discipline them where necessary, and advise them but without sounding commandant.

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Nurture your child’s strengths and help them with their weaknesses instead of forcing attributes upon them. Your growing-up child is already going through the traumatized stage of life where they are experiencing lots of physiological and psychological changes. These changes leave them perplexed and uneasy. Moreover, their quest to fit into society makes their behavioral anatomy more edgy and volatile. It is at this time parents should transform their role to be their companions and give them muchneeded support. Guide them but do not control them, be their confidant and encourage the young minds to discuss & agree. While conversing with your young teen, lighten up the conversation with humor & affability. It’s absolutely ‘OK’ to help your child to set expectations, have a plan, and guide them to develop aims and aspirations in life. But setting too high expectations can be counterproductive. A study conducted by psychological Associations reveals that children who said their parents wanted them to excel in academics/career and other related areas walk on their assigned path showed signs of depression, anxiety, lower self-esteem, and behavior issues.

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Amit’s parents finally understood the relevance of healthy freedom to be given to a child to decide. And, the pertinence of open companionship, and communication with their child. Months later, when they visited Dr. Reena’s clinic again, she saw three happy content faces. Communication &, Companionship are the keys to a healthy relationship between parents and their children. The interaction between parent and child imprints a lasting impact on youngster growing years. An embracive approach nurtured with love and reinforced with moderate discipline leaves a stimulating effect on adolescent growth & development.

STORIZEN MAGAZINE

JUNE 2022

A good relationship with the parent is like a cocoon for a young mind to feel Safe & Relaxed.

Ankur R Gupta - I'm a blogger, an author, and a certified content creator. My writings revolve around the simple motto “Write to bring Smile”. I believe in understanding behavioral aspects of human life linked with their different phases and then ink my words about them in a simplified way to spin out positivity and purpose associated with them. A hardcore history enthusiast and traveler. I love to read & explore our ancient cultures and civilizations. My reading page is inkmyword -the reader community.

@writingstomakeyousmile

JUNE 2022

STORIZEN MAGAZINE

by Ankita Srivastava

nkita the officer detailed as an instructor to Aurangabad had backed off due to his sister’s medical condition and even though I have a house in Aurangabad still I can’t go as I am going on transfer so will you go and take a few lectures ?” my boss Sanjay Sir rattled over the phone. I am always supportive and in alignment with my organization without even knowing where exactly this city called Aurangabad is. I casually asked him, sir, if there are other cities also where these training sessions are being conducted ?” Yes, Pune and Goa” but since all instructors have already volunteered to go there; so you have to go to Aurangabad only. He replied plainly. I somehow didn’t Google the place as I wasn’t feeling even a bit excited about this unknown destination of mine. While I got busy preparing my lectures, my office boy did my flight tickets. I got a not-so-happy seat on the flight. It was the last row middle seat and my washroom experience was bad too. One of the passenger had dirtied it beyond repair so after a long wait, I was offered the crew's toilet when they saw my remaining neutral excitement draining out of my body .

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Thank god the prepaid taxi was prompt, polite, and reasonable at Aurangabad airport. In that short 20 minutes ride, the driver told me about Himroo and paithani sarees are famous in that place. At the training institute, a bunch of unknown junior male officers ( who had arrived from pan India ) greeted me and I ensured I displayed only my formal demeanor all the time. Since they were all gentlemen, I didn’t know who I could take along with me to scout for a good paithani saree so I asked the coordinator. He told me about a famous shop called Mughal nearby . I walked to the shop and I was treated with utmost patience by the salesman when he explained to me the history and art

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work of both Himroo and paithani sarees that depict the historical carvings of that city’s history in the weave and that paithani saree comes in bright colors as is worn by Maharashtrian women during religious and wedding ceremonies. I picked up a bright purple and pink paithani immediately. The next morning at 5 am we were to leave by a non-AC bus as the coordinator had organized our visit to grishneshwar temple and Ellora caves.

There was an AC car also for the instructor but I decided to be with all my student officers on the bus wherein I learned about how the coordinator even though a resident of Faridabad is in love with Aurangabad for the last 8 years of his stay there. The grishneshwar temple darshan which is one of jyotirlinga was such a divine blessing. Soon after we were at the Ellora caves admiring the architecture. Everything looked unbelievable. The carvings, the paintings, and the structures built in the 11th / 12th century had so much finesse and sharpness. We walked for a long and climbed up the stoned staircases in and around those magnificent caves cut out of mountains ( we were already advised to put on sneakers ) we even hired professional photographers to click our group photos. I being the only lady that to a senior one, all officers had put on their best behavior. They all were respectful and formal. I was yet to have each one's

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introduction in my class that was to begin at 10 am is back at the training institute. Next, we were at Bhadra Maruti temple where Hanuman Ji is positioned in sleeping form. Once back in the institute, each of us thanked our organization to have deputed us to this amazing place called Aurangabad. The next day while half the group went to Shirdi temple, I went to Shani Shinganapur temple. It was again a blessed moment for me. The third day was a Sunday and the training had come to an end now. Each one of us was feeling so happy and blessed to have come to Aurangabad. Few of us whose flights were late evening, we took to visiting a panchakki wherein in the 16th century they used to grind wheat with the help of water. I picked up some stone necklaces as mementos from the tiny shops lined there. My old parents were thrilled to see my pictures at this historically beautiful place called the city of gates as they can’t travel this much now. Yes, Aurangabad has 52 gates! The last place we visited was share mahal which is now a museum. It had pure gold paint on the walls and even though people over the years had scrapped that gold away, still you can see

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bits and pieces of patches of gold on the walls and ceilings. The caretaker of the museum was very passionate about the archeological facts about that place. He showed us a tunnel that led to Daulat Abad fort from there. We also saw the samadhi of Lala hard all wherein a water body was also constructed that had stairs. It was getting very warm as the temperature was rising and we booked an Ola back to our place of stay but when it arrived, the driver declined to say that four people cannot be allowed to travel together in an Ola cab. Strange rule. When I offered him a bribe of extra money, he agreed but continued to be rude. So we just told him to cancel the ride. It was 1 pm and the sun was scorching. We then had to walk a few km to get an auto. Strangely, the four of us stuffed ourselves comfortably in that small auto and reached back to our institute safely and happily.

another one. He took back the empty glass and a few minutes later brought in freshly churned sugarcane juice. I gulped that also in five large sips .. enough to be watched in surprise by the other customers who were waiting for their turn to place orders. I tried slowing down my speed of gulping but that raw sweetness made me extra greedy this time … probably I looked like a hungry wolf .. and as I stared into my empty huge arcing glass, I as if got possessed by another greedy creature .. may be an alien this time ….. I asked for the third glass of sugarcane juice …. Gosh the shopkeeper now looked at me as if I would even pay him …I could see it in his eyes as he served me a third big glass of sugarcane juice this time minus his smile.

While the three officers went straight for lunch, I had one more thing to enjoy in Aurangabad… which was pure unadulterated sugarcane juice. I walked a few meters away to a roadside sugarcane cafe where I ordered one large glass. The first sip of it made me feel blissful. I had never tasted this sweet ( without adding sugar ) sugarcane juice in my life. I gulped down like a greedy crow and asked for JUNE 2022

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As I sipped the heavenly-tasting elixir of pure happiness, a family of four (natives of that place )walked in and placed an order for three glasses of juice. The kids took one each while the husband and wife shared one glass and while paying they took out coins but fell short of some coins. The young lady looked embarrassed. The husband requested the shopkeeper to keep it as credit and they went away. I felt tremendously guilty…I don't know why. I finished my third glass quickly and asked for the bill. It was only 60/- ( 20/- per glass ). I paid him an extra amount and told him to write off whatever credit that family has against them in his shop.

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Pic: Ankita Srivastava

JUNE 2022

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How to Deal With Stress? by Sushma M. Bhardwaj

STORIZEN HEALTH

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. It does not intend to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any diseases. Get the help of a certified medical professional or a certified dietician before making any changes to your diet or exercise regimen.

tress is the outcome of the modern materialistic competitive and ambitious world. it has become an epidemic that has engulfed the entire world in its’ tentacles. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), stress has been classified as the health epidemic of the 21st century. What stress actually is? Stress is the feeling of emotional or physical tension. It can come from any event or situation that makes one feel frustrated, angry, or nervous. Stress is your body's reaction to a challenge. Stress can be positive in events when it helps you to meet a deadline or keeps you out of life danger. But when stress levels last for a long time it is dangerous. Stress is of two types: 1. Acute stress: this is short-term stress it helps you to manage dangerous situations. all people have a cute dress at one time and now. 2. Chronic stress: It lasts for a longer period of time. You become so used JUNE 2022

to it that you don't even realize it. this may lead to long term health issues.

There are various causesof Stress 1) Death of a loved one 2) Divorce 3) Change in life situation: marriage, 4) First child, graduation, first job 5) Financial problems 6) Moving to a new house 7) Emotional anxiety 8) Grief, guilt, anger and low selfesteem

How is stress diagnosed? Stress is subjective — not measurable with tests. Only the person experiencing it can determine whether it's present and how severe it feels. A healthcare provider may use questionnaires to understand your stress and how it affects your life.

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STORIZEN HEALTH

What are some ways to prevent stress? Many daily strategies can help you keep stress at bay: Try relaxation activities, such as meditation, yoga, tai chi, breathing exercises, and muscle relaxation. Programs are available online, in smartphone apps, and at many gyms and community centers. Take good care of your body each day. Eating right, exercising, and getting enough sleep help your body handle stress much better. Stay positive and practice gratitude, acknowledging the good parts of your day or life. Accept that you can’t control everything. Find ways to let go of worry about situations you cannot change. Learn to say “no” to additional responsibilities when you are too busy or stressed. Stay connected with people who keep you calm, make you happy, provide emotional support and help you with practical things. A friend, family member, or neighbor can become a good listener or share responsibilities so that stress doesn’t become overwhelming. Stay away from excessive gadgets and stress stimulators

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Give yourself permission to take a break from the news, social media, or even certain friends. Constantly exposing ourselves to negative information, images and rhetoric maintain our stress at unhealthy levels. Try to handle life situations prudently and do not let the stress control your life rather you should take control of stress to lead a happy life.

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STORIZEN REVIEW

As the years roll by, I find myself exploring various genres in English and Hindi apart from Telugu. One of them is modern poetry. There is a vibrant breeze in the new writers' and poets' books. Also, I have to mention specially about the Indian poets. Though I have immense respect and love for the classic and contemporary poets, some of the most striking poems are from new-age modern Indian poets. Along the same lines, recently, I had the chance to pick yet another poetry collection by an Indian author\writer\poet – Prasupta Roy. I have read her previous fiction novel, but it is a collection of her poems this time. With an attractive book cover, comfortable font size, and not to forget to mention the book paper quality, which is superb, Ecstasy by Prasupta Roy is found interesting from the first poem. Why? Read on to know more about my experience of reading it.

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In the book Ecstasy by Prasupta Roy, the poems oscillate between varied themes as mentioned eloquently. Written in simple English with rich vocabulary, these poems instantly capture the reader's mind, and if they are delved deep, some poems will remain in their hearts for a longer time. Why? Because every verse is written honestly and presented elegantly. The poems are emotionally and aesthetically expressive. They allow the readers to think and introspect; the main motto of this beautiful literary artwork called - poetry.

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Prasupta Roy

About the book Ecstasy is a collection of 102 poems that horse around various themes. If some predominantly speak of nature and human feelings ideally in combination, others reflect upon abstract and societal things.

A Must Read With so much variety, this book is a delight to many poetry lovers, and beginner-level readers can take this opportunity to read, understand and analyze the poetry genre.

Book Review

STORIZEN REVIEW

Some poems were written on themes like Justice, Me too, The Dirge, and Rules showcase the hurt, disciplined, and sometimes helpless citizen in the poet. This, I can say, is a representation of many like us, who are chained with no solution for some issues that arise. Visit storizen.com for full review

A passionate book reviewer, writer, narrator, translator, and copy editor, Swapna has a B. Tech in Computer Science and is a former SAP Technical Consultant. She is the writer, narrator, editor, and translator for three books published with Literoma Publishing, Kolkata. She created and manages the “Book Reviews Café” official blog and Facebook page that contains all the book reviews. Swapna is also a content writer and reviewer with Storizen Magazine, CriticSpace Journals website, The Literature Times website, The Asian Review website, and the Literature Today website. She is a columnist with one of the leading women's websites in Telugu named 'Vihanga'.

@swapna.peri @sappy_dreamz_unlimited @swapna508

JUNE 2022

STORIZEN MAGAZINE

STORIZEN REVIEW

The recent days have seen a debate about Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar Visiting Varanasi before his latest movie's release - Samrat Prithviraj. There have been trolling articles about the misinterpretation of history. This made me revisit the history books. I happen to pick up a middle school history textbook. The not-so-happy me tried searching for documentaries on YouTube. I have had a chance to glance at some fantastic channels. Coincidentally, I found this book on Rupa Publication's Instagram page – Aasma-I-Noor with a red diamond! Without a further delay, I laid my hands on the book! I believe in the butterfly effect, and my quest started with Akshay Kumar's movie and ended up with the quest of Aasma-I-Noor. This is a perfect book for the weekend, and I recommend it strongly!

Sudipta Sen Gupta is an associate professor in the School of Management at GD Goenka University. After completing her graduation in physics from Presidency College, Kolkata, and MBA from Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), Delhi University, she worked in senior corporate management roles for over 20 years. She helped build multiple well-known brands and powered multinational organizations to success, winning several national and global awards and recognitions along the way. In 2017, she decided to leave the corporate world and join academics, allowing her time to complete her PhD and return to her first love—Indian history. Aasma-i-Noor: The Cursed Jewel is the result of that love.

Read this and get entertained, historically!

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JUNE 2022

Dr. Sudipta Sen Gupta

Pic Source: Twitter

Head - MBA & PGD Programs, Head-Industry Interface & Associate Professor School of Management, G D Goenka University

About the Book

A Must Read

This is the story of the world’s largest diamond—Aasma-i-Noor (sky of light). This rare red jewel of incomparable beauty surpassed its sister stones—Koh-i-Noor (mountain of light) and Darya-iNoor (sea of light)—all mined from the same womb of the Kollur mine in Golconda.

The entertainment factor of the book is spot on. Throughout the book, there is always an excitement to get to the next page. And hence it is a page-turner! Thus, A perfect entertainer.

STORIZEN REVIEW

Book Review

Micro Review Simple, rich, and meaningful language with adequate vocabulary is used in the book. This quality makes the book a universal read!

Valley of Red Snow by Jitender Dixit

(Reviewed by Swapna Peri)

Visit storizen.com for full review

The story of Kashmir has been told time and again by various people. Since Independence, many things have changed and taken a new form, but politically, the fate of Jammu & Kashmir was always a point of discussion. On August 5, 2019, Article 370 of the Indian constitution, which gave Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) special status, was abolished. J&K became a union territory. The language and facts stated in the book are informative and educating. As commented by the ace film-maker Mahesh Bhatt, This book is an attempt to objectively narrate the changes in Kashmir through extensive ground reports.

JUNE 2022

STORIZEN MAGAZINE

Robust Tools to Increase Body Immunity Reviewed by Swapna Peri

STORIZEN REVIEW

Historically Yoga was more than just a method of physical exercise as it is now being propagated; it was a way of life. Yoga, which originated in India and has been part of the Indian civilization for millennia, is a practice that aligns our mind, body, and spirit and enhances mental clarity. Everyone has dedicated themselves to a lifestyle and culture that surpasses meditation techniques and includes healthy eating habits, bathing habits, social The COVID-19 crisis has dramatically changed how we work interaction, and work. and also changed how we exercise and stay fit.

Yoga practitioners and gurus have strived hard to help people teach the techniques and benefits of Yoga. Bijolaxmi Hota, a reputed yoga therapist with more than three-and-a-half decades of experience, has presented her readers with this book - Yoga for super immunity.

Bijoylaxmi Hota is a noted integrated yoga therapist whose books sell internationally. She gives as much importance to diet as to yoga, since diet plays a major role in one’s health.

Pic: Bijoylaxmi Hota JUNE 2022

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About the Book Yoga for Super Immunity contains techniques to detoxify the system, destress the mind, plant the right belief in the subconscious, maintain correct pH value and improve the functions of all the concerned body parts.

Book Review

STORIZEN REVIEW

Apart from this, some chapters give an account of the condiments, spices, vegetables, fruits, pulses etc., that are to be consumed for better immunity. The best part of the book is the pictorial illustration of important asanas with an explanation.

Micro Review What I Really Want to Say by John Brit & Vaishakhi Bharucha

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Communicating with fellow beings has been a practice since the early human stage. As the human species evolved, his communication skills and manners also evolved. Though communication is a simple act of transferring a message from one place to another, one person to another, Keeping this in view, John Brit & Vaishakhi Bharucha have brought out this book that will help people to identify, practice, and work on their communication both in personal and social/professional life. This book explores the most sensitive areas of life and profession where proper communication is necessary. It is fascinating to pick up a topic and present it in alphabetical order.

JUNE 2022

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Perfect Family Drama with Unveiled Secrets! Reviewed by Swapna Peri

STORIZEN REVIEW

The Vixen by Ketaki Patwardhan Nirkhi is a plot-driven story with many characters closely knit. Gargi Puri and Nandini are close friends. Gargi is getting married, and Nandini has a crush on Gargi's brother Anupam. But one day, Anupam returns home with his girlfriend, Tanya. Though Nandini convinces herself, suspicion rises whenever she sees Tanya. On closer observation, Gargi and Nandini confirm that Tanya is up to the wreckage of the family. Their A perfect family saga with observations and quest to know about Tanya makes them dig deep emotions, suspense, and morals into the family and the buried secrets.

This family drama is a well-written, tight plot with no loose ends, with every chapter engaging and exciting. There are central, prominent and important characters, and the author has given ample space and scope to all of them.

I am Dr.Ketaki Patwardhan Nirkhi, an Anaesthetist by profession and a writer by passion. My debut novel ‘Those enchanted four and half years’ was a love story in the back drop of events occurring in a medical college.

Pic: Ketaki Nirkhi-Patwardhan JUNE 2022

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About the Book Gargi is all set to marry Rishabh. Nandini, Gargi's best friend is awaiting Anupam's, Gargi's brother's arrival from the US so that she can confess her feelings to him. Gargi and Nandini have to race against time to uncover the truth before everything they know is destroyed right in front of their eyes. Will they be successful?

Book Review

STORIZEN REVIEW

The plot has ups and downs, emotional outbursts, and mystery and thriller elements with twists and turns, making the book readable. Readers familiar with suspense family movies, TV serials, or web series will certainly find this story relatable.

Micro Review Unmasking Indian Secularism by Hasan Suroor

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India is a casteless, creedless society. India is a secular country with its varied cultures, languages, and traditions. This was taught in schools a few decades back in the Civics subject. As I grew, the concept of caste and caste politics became more vivid. The mindset which has to grow and become broader started shrinking. Unmasking Indian Secularism: Why We Need a New Hindu-Muslim Deal by Hasan Suroor is a critical examination of India’s secular political history. It underlines the urgent need for a roadmap to restore communal harmony. The book is divided into six chapters.

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A Brilliant Story Reviewed by Swapna Peri

STORIZEN REVIEW

Coincidences are often surprising. But today, it is more than a surprise. I watched the recently released movie based on Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan'sUnnikrishna n's story. He was the 26/11 NSG martyr. And though I read this book last week, I quickly revisited the story to pen my review. In this process, the emotions running in my mind by correlating the book and the movie are unexplainable.

Considering this as the author's first book, Operation Pakistan is a superb thriller with the Indian Army as the background. The story's writing and narratives are filled with action and patriotism at superb levels.

Talking about the book, I had a great time reading it. Everything was set up and crafted wonderfully, from the acknowledgements to the epilogue.

The story is a thriller that runs between borders, countries, soldiers, conspiracies, plot, operations, emotions and, most importantly, duty! This is a must-read book and especially for beginners and young readers!

Originally from Mumbai, Dwayne lives in India's premier sunshine state - Goa. Growing up, he was enthralled by the most prolific writers such as Robert Ludlum, John le Carre and Tom Clancy.

Pic: Dwayne Pimenta JUNE 2022

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About the Book Pakistan's ISI plans to unleash the most devastating terrorist plot against India. Cross-border terror attacks continue unabated. The Indian Prime Minister decides to take decisive affirmative action. Black Smoke, India's super-secret black-ops team are tasked with covertly destroying Pakistan's very sources of terror.

Book Review

STORIZEN REVIEW

The blurb of the book is too good and exciting. I recommend this book to every reader, and I have listed below my experience. Visit storizen.com for full review

JUNE 2022

STORIZEN MAGAZINE

STORIZEN REVIEW

Life sometimes gets complicated, and the need to seek help from others arises. Here comes the role of friends, confidants, therapists, happiness coaches and family. Happiness is elusive, but to be happy, there takes a lot of labor. Inner happiness is something that is to be sought after through hard mental work. To achieve this, it is all in mind and thoughts. Keeping up the child inside alive and seeking happiness from whatever we have in abundance with an innocent heart automatically brings a smile! This book by Prateek Singh is written in simple language with easily accessible vocabulary but with deep research. The font and the paper quality are pretty comfortable, and this 205 pages book has lots of takeaways!

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Whatever might be the challenge that life throws, maintaining a positive attitude and emitting positive energy is essential. But again, this is no easy task. Therefore, books like these help readers choose between dream fillers or killers. There are several tools mentioned in this chapter that will help in steering away negativity and embracing positivity. One of the most effective tools is the 21-day rule. Further in the book, decision tables, exercises, and practice modules that require readers’ attention and time are given. These hand-outs are practical and helpful.

JUNE 2022

About the book Smile – the most beautiful and heart-warming five-letter word, isn't it? Something which suits everyone and never goes out of fashion. But, ever wondered what goes behind donning this most attractive aspect of one's personality?

A Must Read This book by Prateek Singh is written in simple language with easily accessible vocabulary but with deep research. The font and the paper quality are pretty comfortable, and this 205 pages book has lots of takeaways!

Book Review

STORIZEN REVIEW

It is a little tricky to pick the best one in the short-listed 3 books. Here come the crucial things like the title of the book, contents, reader’s connection, presentation, and size of the book. Visit storizen.com for full review

@swapna.peri @sappy_dreamz_unlimited @swapna508

JUNE 2022

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Life in a Street Colourful, Gray, and Black! Reviewed by Swapna Peri

STORIZEN REVIEW

To be happy is simple, but to be simple is difficult. This is one of the strongest statements that I have heard, and ironically, it is a fact.

Warmth, suspicion, ego, love, compassion, and many are portrayed as balanced. I recommend this book to those readers who wish to read lighthearted stories.

Likewise, some books and stories look simple in their writing and presentation, but the interlaced morals and thoughtful lessons make them wonderful. This book has such a story that it will leave the readers to re-think. It is set in the fictional lane Siddhartha Street, located in South India.

JUNE 2022

The story allows the readers to interact and travel with the characters with their stories and narratives. The writing helps the thus readers become involved in the story deeply. While analyzing the characters, I could realize that the story is elegant, emotional, and touching.

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About the Book The street quietly watches them grow, dream and die. In 'Siddhartha Street’ characters come together and grow apart to draw you into the tale of a quotidian street, in a quaint corner of South India. On the rooftop of the lone apartment block in the street, it’s time for ‘Saturday night drinking’ and a motley crew of men gather to drink.

Book Review

STORIZEN REVIEW

The smooth and easy writing style makes the book readable. Most of the narratives follow a conversational tone. Visit storizen.com for full review

JUNE 2022

STORIZEN MAGAZINE

Where Do I Want To Travel? by Aparna Mukherjee

When you feel low Your life goes slow Pack your bags And set out for a beautiful place Where you can spend your time in solace. It's time to shut down Your laptop and keep aside your work Set aside all your worries and bills. Travel to a place where you would see Tall mountains and snow-peaked hills. Catch sight of the eye-catching panaroma The spectacular landscapes The streams, lakes and waterfalls A place where children play with snow balls My mind tells me to travel amidst woods and snow-capped hills. Where no one will come to disturb me A serene place where I can sleep without taking sleeping pills. I want to travel in a place Where I will wake up hearing the chirping birds. No noise and scream My ears would listen to the sound of water Flowing slowly in the stream. I want to get wallowed in The mesmerizing beauty of nature The greenery all around Flowers blossoming in the surrounds. My mind calls for the delicious fruits That hang from the trees Drink crystal and pure water Flow gushingly from the rocky mountains Unwind in the lush garden Under the sunlight Which will make my holidays happy and bright. JUNE 2022

In a few words, Aparna defines a woman who beholds high aspirations and firmly believes in expanding her horizon. She holds a Master's degree in English Literature from Mumbai University. By profession, she is a Website Content Writer. Her poems got published in the Indian Literature website named Facestory's.com. Currently, her stories and poems get published in the anthology books in the eminent Reflection Magazine and in the renowned digital magazine, Storizen. She is bestowed with the Indian Global Award 2022 and has been felicitated with a medal in the Tagore Literature Festival 2022 by Literoma. Her world revolves around creativity and writing. She wishes to make her mark in the literary world, hoping to leave an indelible imprint on the readers' minds.

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ARIES MOON SIGN: DEATH This Month Aries, there will be sudden transformation in your life. You might leave certain things or situation which is not serving any purpose for you. Also, some might receive unexpected news in their life. TAURUS MOON SIGN: 8 OF SWORDS This Month Taurus, you might be trapped in Situation where you are feeling helpless and unable to think of any solutions. You are overthinking negative situations. It is the time to let go of negative thoughts and peacefully think of the solutions. GEMINI MOON SIGN: THE MOON This month Gemini, you might be having unconscious fears which is stopping you to move forward towards your goals. It might be due to past failures in your life. Just learn from it and move on. Don’t take any impulsive decisions this month. JUNE 2022

CANCER MOON SIGN: 5 OF SWORDS This month Cancer, you need to be silent and stay away from arguments as there might be difference of opinions and if you argue, you might hurt someone which cannot be changed. So this month better to be silent.

LEO MOON SIGN: KING OF CUPS This Month Leo, you will be emotional and take decisions from the heart. At the same time, you will be compassionate and caring towards your colleagues and loved ones.

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VIRGO MOON SIGN: THE EMPRESS This month, you will be financially secure and successful. It is the month which will help you to grow in your career. If you are looking for job change, go ahead. Females who are trying for baby this is the right month to conceive. LIBRA MOON SIGN: THE LOVERS This Month, you might spend quality time with your partner. Expressing your love to him/her. Also, if you are struggling in a relationship, just sit together and sort out your differences. Singles might receive their soulmate. In career, you will be following your passion and enjoy your work. SCORPIO MOON SIGN: KNIGHT OF WANDS This month, Scorpio you are very courageous and ambitious to follow your dreams. You have a clear vision and going ahead to reach your goals. You will be working very hard towards your targets with passion and dedication. 92

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SAGITTARIUS MOON SIGN: QUEEN OF SWORDS This month, Sagittarians you, are focused in your work with clear thoughts. You will be taking unbiased decisions in your workplace. You have the mental clarity about your life purpose and you are independently moving towards it.

CAPRICORN MOON SIGN: JUDGEMENT This Month, Capricorns you must control your speech as there might be difference of opinion at your workplace with your colleagues or superior. Sometimes, Silence is the best way instead of winning the battle and regret in the end. Once spoken statement cannot be taken back and it might spoil the relationship.

JUNE 2022

AQUARIUS MOON SIGN: JUSTICE This Month Aquarians, you will be paid for your deeds. If you had done good deeds, you will be rewarded. Also, if someone is fighting for some court case, will get the justice this month. Also singles might get married in court.

PISCES MOON SIGN: 8 OF CUPS This month, you might be emotional and moving out from certain things in life which is not serving any purpose to you. Some might be running away from certain emotional problematic situation which is causing pain in their life.

JUNE 2022

I am Himani Goyal, By profession, I am an HR Manager working in Banglore. Reading is my hobby which led me to write reviews for my readers. I have read and reviewed numerous books so far. I am also a practicing Tarot consultant and would be sharing daily, weekly, monthly horoscopes for you all here.

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