In a world where the glow of screens illuminates even the darkest corners of the night, and where the echo of notifications competes with the chirping of birds, there exists a quiet revolution—an antidote to the relentless pursuit of more, more and more. This revolution is known as the Joy of Missing Out, or JOMO.

Amid a society consumed by FOMO, or the Fear of Missing Out, JOMO stands as a flare of serenity. It's about finding contentment in the moments when we choose to disconnect, to unplug from the constant stream of updates and notifications, and to embrace the simple pleasures that surround us.

As someone once said, "In a world that never sleeps, finding moments of stillness is the greatest luxury of all." That's the essence of JOMO—it's about reclaiming our time, our attention, and our sanity in a world that's constantly vying for it.

But how does JOMO fit into the whirlwind of social media, you ask? Well, imagine: in a sea of perfectly curated feeds and carefully crafted personas, JOMO is like finding an oasis of authenticity. It's about tuning out the noise of comparison and competition, and instead, tuning into the rhythm of our own lives.

In a culture where likes, shares, and followers are something that we run after, JOMO is a refreshing alternative. It's a reminder that true happiness isn't measured by the number of friends we have on Facebook or the likes we receive on Instagram, but by the depth of our connections and the richness of our experiences.

So, let's embrace JOMO in the age of social media! Let's resist the pressure to constantly be online, to constantly be connected, and instead, let's prioritize our mental well-being, our relationships, and our personal growth.

Education also offers a unique opportunity for inner connection. At JSPM University, you can immerse yourself in this journey, cultivating meaningful relationships and embracing the serene atmosphere of our campus. JOMO embodies the quest for purpose in education, distancing oneself from the superficiality of social media and experiencing the genuine essence of learning.

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As someone once said, "Life isn't about how many followers you have, but about the moments that take your breath away." And in those moments—those quiet, unassuming moments—we find the true essence of JOMO, and the true joy of missing out.

Ms. Arpita Kaswa

Dean, Faculty of Education and Humanities

When it comes to wealth, what first comes to mind? Many would argue it’s all about money, possessions, or perhaps social status. Yet, the greatest wealth is undoubtedly health. Without good health—both mental and physical—no level of financial success can bring true happiness or fulfilment. As we approach World Mental Health Day on October 10, an initiative by the World Health Organization (WHO), it’s crucial to shine a light on the vital connection between mental health and overall well-being, especially in an unequal world facing ongoing challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.

 Mental Health in an Unequal World

The theme for World Mental Health Day 2024, The theme for World Mental Health Day is 'Mental Health At Work'. The theme reflects the psychological well-being of people in the workplace environment. As we navigate the complexities of modern life—working from home, dealing with unemployment, and maintaining connections through screens—it’s easier than ever to overlook mental well-being. Yet, mental health is not just a personal concern; it’s a collective responsibility.

We often hear about the importance of physical health, but mental health deserves equal focus. Nourishing the brain through a balanced diet is essential for maintaining mental clarity and emotional stability. Just as the body thrives on nutrients, so does the mind.

The Food-Mental Health Connection

Research has shown a strong link between what we eat and how we feel. Food can have both immediate and long-lasting effects on our mental health. For instance, caffeine and sugar can provide quick boosts but may result in crashes that leave us feeling drained. Conversely, a well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can support our brain function and improve our emotional health.

A healthy diet includes:

- Lots of different types of fruits and vegetables

- Wholegrain cereals or bread

- Nuts and seeds

- Dairy products

- Oily fish

- Plenty of water

Hydration is equally important. Drinking at least eight glasses of water a day helps maintain our body’s equilibrium and ensures our brain performs at its best. Additionally, try to limit the intake of high-caffeine or sugary drinks. 

 Key Nutrients for a Healthier Mind

Certain nutrients play a pivotal role in brain health. Incorporating the following into our diets can lead to improvements in both mental and physical health:

- Folic acid/Folate (Vitamin B9): Found in green leafy vegetables, beans, nuts, and sprouts.

- Vitamin D: Sourced from fatty fish, it’s essential for various bodily functions, including mood regulation.

- Omega-3 fatty acids: Present in fish, walnuts, flax seeds, and olive oil, these fats are vital for brain health.

- Fermented foods: Yogurt and cultured milk support gut health, which can positively influence your mood.

- Prebiotic and Probiotic foods: Foods such as garlic, onions, bananas, apples, and cottage cheese promote a healthy gut biome.

- Stay hydrated: Options like coconut water, lemon water, and fruit juices can also provide essential hydration.

These nutrients not only benefit brain health but also enhance your overall well-being, creating a solid foundation for both your mental and physical health.

 The Importance of Mindful Eating

In our fast-paced lives, we often neglect the way we eat. Mindful eating involves paying close attention to our meals and how they affect our feelings and health. Keeping a food journal is a great tool to become conscious of what, when, and where we eat. This self-awareness can reveal patterns, such as overeating during stressful times or under-eating due to busy schedules.

If you find that stress triggers overeating, pause and jot down your feelings before grabbing a snack. This practice can help you identify the emotions that drive your eating habits. Conversely, if you tend to under-eat, try breaking your meals into smaller portions throughout the day to ensure you’re getting the nutrients your body and mind need.

 Conclusion

As we celebrate World Mental Health Day 2024, let it serve as a reminder that taking care of our mental health is just as important as looking after our physical health. A balanced diet rich in nutrients is a secret weapon for achieving a healthy mind and body. Whether it’s enjoying a nourishing meal, staying hydrated, or practicing mindful eating, every small step contributes to a more holistic approach to health. 

Remember, you can’t truly enjoy wealth unless you’re in good health. Let’s make mental health care a reality for all, advocating for a world where healthy minds can thrive alongside physical wellness. Together, we can create a foundation for a brighter future.

Assistant professor,

Amruta Khanke,

Faculty of Health sciences,

JSPM University Pune.

Festivals are more than just events; they’re moments that bring people closer. They remind us why we celebrate life, love, and community. For me, Diwali stands out as a festival that truly captures this spirit. 

Every year during Diwali, my family and I clean and decorate our home with diyas and colorful lights. But the real magic happens outside our doors. Neighbors exchange sweets, kids run around with sparklers, and everyone seems to wear a smile. One year, we organized a small rangoli competition in our society. Strangers became teammates, and by the end of the evening, we weren’t just neighbors anymore we were friends. 

What I love most about festivals is the sense of connection they create. Diwali, for instance, isn’t just about celebrating the victory of light over darkness. It’s also about strengthening bonds, helping each other, and sharing happiness. 

In a fast-paced world, festivals like Diwali remind us to pause, come together, and appreciate the people in our lives. They teach us that joy is even sweeter when shared. That’s the real magic of festivals: they light up not just our homes, but also our hearts and communities...

Sachin B Hajare

Student: First Year

Department: Animation and VFX

India's vibrant festivals are more than just religious observances; they're the lifeblood of a society built on shared traditions and strong community ties. From the dazzling lights of Diwali to the joyous chaos of Holi, each celebration weaves a tapestry of faith, culture, and unity. These festivals are a kaleidoscope of diversity, reflecting the unique customs and rituals of different regions, religions, and communities.  They bring people together, fostering mutual respect and appreciation for each other's traditions.  Imagine the joyous atmosphere of Eid, Christmas, or Gurupurab, where people of all faiths come together to share greetings and sweets, creating a sense of belonging.

Festivals are also a time for families to reconnect, strengthening bonds and reinforcing the importance of kinship.  Extended families travel back to ancestral homes, sharing meals and creating cherished memories.  But the magic of festivals goes beyond family and community.  They bring people together to build, decorate, and organize, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and "seva" (selfless service).  Traditional art forms, music, and cuisine are showcased, preserving cultural heritage and passing it down through generations.

Finally, festivals are a boon for local economies, boosting the demand for crafts, food, and decorations, supporting livelihoods and contributing to the well-being of the community. While challenges like commercialization and social inequalities threaten the true spirit of celebration, many communities are actively working to preserve the magic of festivals, ensuring they remain vibrant and inclusive for generations to come.

As I reflect on 2024, it’s the small, heartfelt acts of kindness that truly stand out. These moments, though simple, created ripples of positivity that made the year unforgettable. 

Listening with Care: Taking a moment to ask a struggling colleague, “How are you really doing?” opened up a conversation that brought us closer and reminded me of the power of genuine connection. 

Sharing Knowledge: Mentoring students on a tech project not only empowered them but also reignited my passion for guiding others. 

Helping Hands: Offering to carry groceries for an elderly man on a rainy day led to an uplifting chat filled with stories and smiles. 

Community Support: Volunteering at a local shelter and teaching kids coding made me realize that kindness is more about intent than scale. 

Gratitude: A simple “thank you” to often-overlooked workers, like delivery personnel, sparked moments of joy and appreciation. 

Reconnecting Friends: Bridging the gap between two old friends brought warmth to their lives—and mine. 

These small gestures reminded me that kindness doesn’t need to be grand to leave a lasting impact. As we enter 2025, let’s cherish and create more of these moments that make life truly meaningful. 

What simple acts of kindness shaped your year? Let’s keep spreading the light. 

In a world often dominated by headlines of conflict and division, 2024 quietly unfolded as a year of extraordinary kindness. From bustling city streets to quaint rural towns, countless individuals chose to brighten the lives of others through simple, yet profound acts of compassion. 
These small gestures—a warm smile, a helping hand, or an unexpected gift—rippled through communities, workplaces, and even the digital realm, creating waves of positivity that touched hearts and transformed lives. As we reflect on the year gone by, it's clear that these acts of kindness, both big and small, have woven a tapestry of hope and humanity that made 2024 truly unforgettable.
Join us as we explore seven heartwarming categories of kindness that defined the past year, from workplace generosity to environmental stewardship. These stories will not only warm your heart but may also inspire you to sprinkle a little more kindness into your own corner of the world. 

Small gestures with big impact
Surprising a neighbor with homemade treats
In a world often consumed by digital interactions, the simple act of surprising a neighbor with homemade treats can create a lasting impact. This gesture not only brightens someone's day but also fosters a sense of community and connection. Consider baking a batch of cookies, preparing a savory dish, or even crafting a homemade jam to share.Helping a stranger with groceries,Offering assistance to a stranger struggling with groceries, is a small act that can make a significant
difference. This kind gesture can be especially meaningful for elderly individuals, parents with young children, or anyone who appears to be having difficulty. Here's a quick guide on how to help:
1. Approach politely and offer assistance
2. Be respectful of personal space
3. Carry bags or push the cart as needed
4. Help load groceries into their vehicle if appropriate

Leaving encouraging notes in public places
Spreading positivity through anonymous notes can create ripple effects of kindness. These small messages of hope and encouragement can lift spirits and inspire others to pay it forward. Consider leaving notes in the following locations:
Location Example Message: Library books "You've got this! Keep learning and growing."
Public restrooms "You are beautiful inside and out."
Bus stops "Your journey matters. Enjoy the ride!"
Park benches "Take a moment to appreciate your surroundings."
Paying for the person behind you in line
This unexpected act of generosity can create a chain reaction of kindness. Whether at a coffee shop, drive-thru, or toll booth, paying for the person behind you can brighten their day and inspire them to do the same for others. Remember, the amount doesn't matter; it's the thoughtfulness that counts.
Now that we've explored these small gestures with big impact, let's consider how acts of kindness can transform the workplace environment.

Acts of kindness in the workplace

Mentoring a new colleague
In 2024, the workplace became a hub of compassion, starting with the simple act of mentoring new colleagues. Seasoned professionals took time out of their busy schedules to guide newcomers, fostering a culture of support and growth. This mentorship went beyond basic job training, encompassing career advice, emotional support, and integration into the company culture.
Organizing a team appreciation day
Teams across various industries embraced the power of gratitude by organizing dedicated appreciation days. These events ranged from small gestures to elaborate celebrations, all aimed at recognizing the hard work and contributions of team members.

Sharing credit for successful projects
Perhaps one of the most impactful acts of kindness in the workplace was the willingness to share credit
for successful projects. Leaders and team members alike demonstrated humility and generosity by:
- Highlighting individual contributions during presentations
- Mentioning team efforts in company-wide communications
- Nominating colleagues for awards and recognition
- Giving junior team members opportunities to present their work
This culture of shared success not only boosted moral but also fostered a more collaborative and innovative work environment. As we explore further, we'll see how these workplace kindnesses extended into the broader community, creating a ripple effect of positivity.

The year 2024 has shown us that kindness, in all its forms, has the power to transform lives and communities. From small gestures that brighten someone's day to unexpected acts of generosity, we've witnessed how simple acts of kindness can create ripple effects of positivity. Whether it's fostering a
more supportive workplace environment, engaging in community service, or showing compassion in the digital realm, these acts have woven a tapestry of goodwill that has made this year truly memorable.
As we reflect on these heartwarming stories, let's carry this spirit of kindness forward. Each of us has the ability to make a difference, no matter how small the act may seem. By continuing to practice kindness towards others, our environment, and ourselves, we can create a more compassionate world.
Remember, a single act of kindness can spark a chain reaction of goodwill, making every day an opportunity to create lasting, positive memories.

By Shreya Thorat

FY BSc. CS and DSAI

                 Let’s Broaden Beyond the Boundaries!!!

                 An Experience in Experiential Learning

………..It happened so in the year 2010, I was supposed to coordinate a 10 Day Soft Skill Development Programme. Everyday a Resource Person was supposed to deliver the session on a new Soft Skill such as Time Management, Public Speaking, Goal Setting, Creativity etc. Among those ten days, one day early morning I received a call from the Resource Person stating that she won’t be able to conduct that day’s session due to some emergency. The moment I ended the call; I started sweating and palpitating because it would be difficult to manage without a resource person. Moreover, the students had also developed keen interest in learning the Soft Skills. So, they were already present in the seminar hall. That day was a big challenge for me. But you know as the saying goes: “Adversity brings out the best in you.” I started thinking of some activity to engage the students somehow. The moment I entered the class, believe me, my legs were literally shivering. Around 30 to 35 students were there. Thoughts started pouring in. How will I engage this class? I decided to form the group of these students and give them a task. I looked in my purse, I saw, around 500 to 600 cash was there. I formed four groups and then gave them 100 Rs each as their capital amount and asked them to make maximum out of it till 4.00pm. I told them that all the groups will meet me at Saras Baug at 4.00 pm. Like those students, I was also keen to know about what happened to those 400 hundred Rupees. As decided, I reached Saras Baug at 4.00 pm. Two groups had already reached there. I started asking them about others and they said one more group has reached but they are with two foreigners. We waited till all came. Then shortly all arrived and started narrating their own experience of earning money. I was listening to each group with great curiosity.

First group: They saw that in the next building of the college Traditional Day was being celebrated and many girls were in Saree. Immediately they bought a bundle of “Gajaras”: the flowers and sold it at double the price of the regular. They sold it for Rs 20 to 40 each. This made them earn more money in less time.

Second Group:  They purchased the stationery items like pen, pencil, eraser etc of 100 Rs and sold it at the road signal. As soon as the stock used to get over the other team used to supply the stock of stationery items.  While buying the stationery items, they saw the Mehendi Cones which they thought can help to earn more money. The girls of this group started drawing mehendi on the hand, each hand for Rs 10. And this group was busy with the foreigners in Saras Baug. I asked them about their interaction with the foreigners. They said, nothing special but they were drawing Mehendi on the Foreigner’s hand because they charged Rs 50 for each hand as they knew that the foreign students pay five times double the fees than regular students. So, they applied the same rule here also. It was really very exciting and enlightening to me as well as for these students…… turning Learning into application.

Third Group: This group made their money by providing their services in a saree shop as it was owned by one of the girls’ relative. She requested him to allow her group to work in the Saree shop for a few hours and then he can pay as much as they deserve for those services. Thus, this helped in selling the sarees and those girls earned money out of their services.

 Fourth Group:  The Fourth Group went on looking for some activity. They visited the bungalow on Sinhgad Road and looking at the dry waste near the bunglow, they requested the old couple in the bunglow that their group will clean the surroundings of their bungalow and in return they can pay whatever they wished for the cleaning services.  Thus, this group helped to clean the bungalow and earned the money.

Finally, after all the calculations, it was found that these students have earned a remarkable profit. Quite surprisingly, the amount these groups earned was three and half times more than the capital given to them. They made 1452/-out of only 400/-

But along with this Profit they had earned and learned a lot of other things and values such as respect and value for money, hard work, and innovativeness in earning money, Time Management, working in Team, Leadership and many more. I am sure students learn many lessons in the class and forget over a period of time but this lesson they will remember forever in life. So let’s broaden our teaching beyond the boundaries.

Civil duty are responsibilities that citizens take to contribute towards the well-being of the community and society. It comprises of actions and attitudes related to democratic values and in exchange the citizens receive the benefit of living in a good society.

There are various duties that we can perform beyond classroom such as volunteering, voting, advocating,educating, respecting others, protecting environment, staying informed, participating in government initiatives, donating and following public health orders. These civic duties can be performed individually or in a group.  

They can include political and non-political actions. Student or faculty can contribute to civic duties on roads and in public places by learning and following the rules, and by educating others. 

For example: - learning and following the rules such as, follow the rules on the road, even when no one is watching obey the traffic rules, practice good manners, educate others by teaching others about the rule. Use your talent and other ways to contribute such as doing community services and nurture ethical values. 

Through experiential learning, individuals can better understand and practice the following civic duties that is experience in mock elections or voting simulations, highlights the importance of informed decision-making, obeying Laws: Understanding the significance of following laws through activities like community discussions or legal awareness workshops, Paying Taxes: Engaging in simulations about budgeting or taxation to comprehend how taxes contribute to public welfare. Experiencing activities like disaster relief drills or NCC (National Cadet Corps) programs can encourage national pride and the feeling of fraternity.

Civic duties not only ensure societal order but also foster unity, equality, and mutual respect among citizens. Embracing these responsibilities through both understanding and action empowers individuals to be active participants in shaping a better future for their community and nation.

The fulfilment of civic duties is essential for building a harmonious, prosperous, and sustainable society. Experiential learning shifts civic duty from abstract ideas to actionable realities. With resources like community projects, internships, and service-learning, students don't just study civics—they live it. Through active participation, they develop a deeper understanding of societal issues, foster empathy, and cultivate leadership qualities essential for driving change. Ultimately, this hands-on approach bridges the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world application, empowering students to contribute meaningfully to their communities. In this way, experiential learning truly transforms passive learners into engaged citizens.

By-

Srushti Tupe & Samiksha Satav

BA Political Science Students