
Experts debunk Covid vaccine-heart attack link, Row over religious profiling during Kanwar Yatra in UP
And a controversy has erupted ahead of the Kaavar Yatra in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh. This after a dhaba worker named Tajamul claims he was asked to remove his pants to prove his religious identity. He says the dhaba owner had advised him to use the Hindu name 'Gopal' for safety during the yatra. The incident occurred after the UP government issued a directive for shop owners to display nameplates during the yatra. The program examines the tensions arising from this religious profiling and questions whether peace can be maintained during this year's yatra.

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Time of India
30 minutes ago
- Time of India
A Sunday lifeline: Meet Chhapra doc who treats rural poor for free
1 2 Chhapra: In an age where healthcare often comes with a heavy price, one doctor in Saran is rewriting that script by offering affordable, compassionate treatment to the most vulnerable. Dr Ravi Shankar Singh, a 66-year-old paediatrician based in Chhapra, has spent the last 22 years dedicating his Sundays to treating poor patients in remote villages entirely free of charge. His approach is not only patient-centric but deeply rooted in a philosophy of service inspired by the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa and Swami Vivekananda. "Service to man is service to God" is a way of life for Dr Ravi. Every Sunday, without fail, he travels to rural outreach centres affiliated with the Ramakrishna Ashrama in Chhapra. These include the villages of Kohbarwa (under Sadar block), Matkaua (under Garkha block) and Salempur (in Manjhi block), where hundreds of patients, mostly from impoverished backgrounds, line up for free consultation and treatment. "I treat the patients considering them as my own family members. I avoid sending them for costly pathological investigations. Most of my patients are poor. I cannot treat them like they are in Delhi, Mumbai or other metro cities," Dr Ravi said. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Serbia: New Container Houses (Prices May Surprise You) Container House Search Now Undo Patients and locals often compare his prescribing style to that of the late Dr Sheo Narayan Singh, a Patna doctor known for his minimalist, cost-conscious prescriptions. Dr Ravi follows the same ethos – fewer medicines and always affordable ones. His commitment to service originates from a turning point in 2003 when the Chhapra branch of the Ramakrishna Mission was taken over by its Belur headquarters. During one evening prayer at the ashram, he was moved by a particular Sanskrit verse – Khandan Bhavabandhan, Jagavandan, Vandi Tomay – which translates to, "You are able to liberate a person from the bondage of the world, I offer my respect to you." "After understanding the meaning of that prayer, I became a dedicated follower of Sri Ramakrishna and committed myself to serve the people," he said. In 2020, shortly after the Covid-19 pandemic, Dr Ravi took voluntary retirement from govt service. Yet, his dedication to the underserved has not diminished. Healthcare runs in the family. Dr Ravi's wife, Dr Kalpana Sharma, is a well-known gynaecologist in Chhapra. Their only son, Dr Pratyush Chandrayan, is a doctor of medicine at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Medical College and Hospital at Bihta in Patna while his daughter-in-law, Dr Priyanka Basu Bal, is a biochemist. Together, the family forms a quiet medical powerhouse with a shared commitment to care. Born in Nalanda's Bahadurpur village under the Sare police station area, Dr Ravi is the second of four brothers. His father, the late Shambhu Sharan Singh, was a respected figure in the community. Though deeply engaged with the world, Dr Ravi has a message for today's youth – resist the distractions of the digital age. "In this era of electronics and artificial intelligence, I never keep a cellphone," he said – a quiet protest against the noise of modern life and a reminder that some healing does not require screens, apps or AI. Just presence, empathy and service.


Hindustan Times
32 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
AIIMS gastroenterologist explains why you must soak chia seeds before eating them: ‘People have ended up in hospitals'
From smoothies to puddings, chia seeds have become a staple in health-conscious diets. But if you're eating them dry, you could be putting your digestive health at risk. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford universities, shared in his July 3 Instagram post that chia seeds absorb many times their weight in liquid. Chia seeds absorb 27 times their weight in water, making dry consumption risky.(Pixabay) This means that if consumed dry, they can expand in your throat or stomach, potentially causing discomfort, bloating, or even digestive blockages. (Also read: Gastroenterologist shares how modern work culture fuels silent liver crisis: 'Even those with normal weight are at risk' ) Can eating dry chia seeds be dangerous Dr Seth explains in the post, "People have ended up in the hospital after eating dry chia seeds and then drinking water," he warned. 'The seeds expanded and got stuck in their oesophagus, and it had to be removed endoscopically. While this is rare, it has happened, especially in individuals with pre-existing swallowing difficulties or gastrointestinal conditions.' How to safely consume chia seeds for better digestion Dr Sethi shares that chia seeds have the remarkable ability to absorb up to 27 times their weight in water, which is why eating them dry can pose a risk. "Always soak them before consumption, ideally for at least 30 minutes, if not overnight. They'll form a gel-like texture that's not only easier to swallow but also great for digestion," he advises. He also recommends starting small: "Begin with just one teaspoon a day and gradually work your way up as your body adjusts." By soaking chia seeds, you're not just making them safer to eat, you're also unlocking their full nutritional potential, including fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, and gut-friendly benefits. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.


Hindustan Times
40 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
Kenneth Colley dies of Covid and pneumonia: A lung specialist explains the risks
The death of British actor Kenneth Colley, celebrated for his role as Admiral Piett in the beloved Star Wars franchise, has left many in the entertainment world mourning. Colley, who was 87 years old, died on June 30 after contracting Covid-19 and subsequently pneumonia while hospitalised for an arm injury sustained in a fall. His medical case underscores the importance of understanding that older adults are more susceptible to Covid-19 pneumonia, which may affect them more severely. Understanding COVID-19 Risks(Instagram) The connection between Covid-19 and pneumonia Covid-19 does not only induce cardiovascular complications but also lung problems in people. It is a viral infection that affects the lungs and can cause breathing difficulties. One of the serious complications of Covid-19 is pneumonia, which happens when the virus causes the lungs to become inflamed and filled with fluid. Pneumonia caused by Covid-19 is different from regular pneumonia. In Covid-19, the virus directly attacks the air sacs in the lungs (called alveoli), making it hard for the body to get enough oxygen. This can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, cough, and fever. In some people, the condition can get worse quickly and lead to respiratory failure, which may require oxygen support or even a ventilator. Who is at a greater risk of Covid pneumonia? 'Understand that those with weak immune systems, the elderly, or those with health conditions like diabetes, asthma, or heart disease are at higher risk of developing Covid-related pneumonia,' Dr Samir Garde, Director of the Department of Pulmonology and Lung Transplant, Gleneagles Hospital, tells Health Shots. Timely management of pneumonia would be essential for better health, but prevention is the best cure. "It is necessary to cover your mouth while travelling or in public places, follow proper cough etiquette, and avoid being around people who are sick. Take utmost care of the lungs and prevent pneumonia," adds Dr Garde. Understanding pneumonia: Symptoms and causes What is pneumonia? Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in the lungs, causing them to fill with fluid. Common symptoms include: Fever Cough Shortness of breath Fatigue In the context of Covid-19, pneumonia can manifest in two primary ways: through direct viral infection of lung tissue or as a result of an immune response that leads to inflammation. Age-related health risks of covid-19 Older adults are particularly susceptible to severe health risks from Covid-19 and pneumonia due to various factors: Declining immune function: As individuals age, their immune systems become less efficient, making it more challenging to combat infections. As individuals age, their immune systems become less efficient, making it more challenging to combat infections. Underlying health conditions: Many seniors have pre-existing conditions, such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes, which increase their risk of complications. Data indicates that elderly individuals are significantly more likely to be hospitalised with covid-19 and suffer higher mortality rates compared to younger populations. For instance, the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society reported that nearly 80% of Covid-19-related deaths in the US occurred among those aged 65 and older. Hospitalisation risks following falls in seniors In situations like Colley's, a seemingly simple event such as a fall can lead to severe health complications: Increased infection risk in hospitals: Hospital environments expose patients to various pathogens, elevating the risk of infections. Hospital environments expose patients to various pathogens, elevating the risk of infections. Pneumonia risk: Once hospitalised, individuals with Covid-19 face a heightened risk of developing pneumonia, complicating their recovery. Studies published in the medical journal Critical Care have shown a significant increase in pneumonia risk for patients diagnosed with covid-19. The importance of vaccination for older adults Kenneth Colley's situation serves as a poignant reminder of the critical need for preventive measures among older adults, particularly vaccinations. Vaccination: Covid-19 vaccinations have proven to be one of the most effective methods for reducing infection rates and preventing severe illness. Covid-19 vaccinations have proven to be one of the most effective methods for reducing infection rates and preventing severe illness. Additional vaccinations: Seniors should also prioritise receiving flu and pneumonia vaccines to ensure comprehensive protection. Seniors should also prioritise receiving flu and pneumonia vaccines to ensure comprehensive protection. Fall prevention: Implementing strategies to prevent falls can help reduce the likelihood of hospitalisation and associated health risks. Preventing falls and infections in seniors The tragic passing of Kenneth Colley highlights the essential health risks faced by older adults as a result of a Covid-19 infection. His story encourages us to understand better and mitigate the dangers, particularly pneumonia, associated with covid-19. Tips for protecting seniors There are several approaches that families and caregivers can adopt to help protect older adults from Covid-19, pneumonia, and related health risks: