Hola Fútbol ~ Says Hero Vired & eLaLiga

Hero Vired, India’s premium EdTech company by the Hero Group, recently announced the launch of the first-ever eLaLiga challenge in India titled ‘eLaLiga Trophy powered by Hero Vired’. Inaugurated by Spanish Legend, Luis Garcia at a grand event in Delhi, registrations for the eSports championship have been opened starting today. The tournament will be held between 9 and 26 April 2022, with the national finale hosted LIVE on 8 May 2022.

The tournament is brought to India, for the first time, by Hero Vired as an extension of the partnership between Hero Vired and LaLiga. Headquartered in Madrid, LaLiga is Spain’s top division football league and one of the world’s most popular professional sports leagues. As its Official Knowledge Partner, Hero Vired will help LaLiga connect with its premium audience base ensuring a wider reach through this high-impact association in India. 

Commenting on the launch, Akshay Munjal, Founder and CEO, Hero Vired, said, “eSports is rapidly gaining popularity, and as per a report, India will have over 1.5 million active eSports players by FY25. We are delighted to contribute to this fast-growing ecosystem by bringing this challenge to India. From K-12 through higher education, eSports provides an inclusive environment where students can thrive and expand their talent. Our exclusive collaboration with the League and the eLaLiga Trophy provides Indians and Hero Vired learners with an incredible opportunity to access global experience and opens up pathways to new possibilities.”

“This launch and partnership were always meant to be, football blends seamlessly with data science and finance markets, and gaming with developers. In addition, this is our first step to launch the one-of-a kind gaming program in India soon”, Munjal further added.

This new gaming challenge will feature amateur players and influencers from across all geographies of India. Players will compete in online tournaments, with the best participants getting the chance to win official merchandise, and a ‘Money Can’t Buy Experience’ to Spain. 

Speaking about eLaLiga Trophy, Jose Antonio Cachaza, Managing Director, LaLiga India, said, “At LaLiga, we always look at partnering with leading brands, and that’s why we chose Hero Vired as our official Knowledge partner to bring this internationally acclaimed challenge to India. Our shared vision and a mutually rewarding relationship bring the best of education and sports worlds together and complement one another. Creating a meaningful connection with the target audience that has shown a craving for football, Hero Vired will help LaLiga reach new audiences through this challenge and association.”

All interested fans can find more details about the eLaLiga Trophy powered by Hero Vired and register via Hero Vired - ELaLiga.

Luis Garcia, LaLiga Ambassador, and ex-FC Barcelona player said, “E-sports has always been a big part of football. It's a terrific opportunity for fans to get involved with their favorite sport and compete with their friends and other players from all around the world. I've observed my younger relatives and friends' love for e-sports, and I feel it helps gamers get more familiar with different sports, teams, and athletes from a young age. The emergence of e-sports has helped to improve sporting fandom, and the eLaLiga Trophy will give the sports and gaming enthusiasts in India a much-needed boost.”

In addition to that, Luis also recalled his experience of playing in India for Athletico de Kolkata when he came out of retirement a few years back, and also was sport for a friendly match with Indian FIFA player Lokmanyu Chaturvedi. 

Hero Vired and eLaLiga will continue to establish similar events and opportunities in India to bolster eSports and gaming-related learning in the country. eLaLiga Beat the Best, is the new international competition by LaLiga and EA, is currently held in thirteen countries with two challenges in the United States and China. 

The competition further elevates the excitement of eLaLiga EA SPORTS FIFA 22 and FIFA Online tournaments across the world. This format follows the lead of the 20/21 eLaLiga Fan Cup, which attracted 21,000 registered players and generated 3 million impressions on social media, the first step in the internationalization strategy developed by eLaLiga.

Through this collaboration, Hero Vired and LaLiga aim to increase awareness of the need for upskilling and continuous learning, and also bring to light their much-awaited program in gaming. eLaLiga is Hero Vired’s flagship gaming tournament through which the company aims to help users develop the requisite skills for emerging opportunities in eSports and gaming in the jobs for the future.

Privy To Skin Care With Seer Secrets...

In ancient India, there was the belief of 'Simple Living, High Thinking'. When it comes to self-care, nothing above and beyond this belief is required. 

It is known for a fact that Indian scriptures hold a treasure trove of knowledge and our seers knew more then, than we can even imagine now. Our sages have been with us in spirit, through the documentation of their wisdom and our belief in customs and traditions propagated by them through the ages. 

In today’s progressive era, life has become more stressful and deep sleep has slowly become a difficulty to earn and not an ease what it should have been. We are short of time on our hands and hence end up being hamsters in wheels - the ones that end up enduring with life and not living it leisurely. 

In all this pacing, we forget to care for ourselves and eventually, are drained of our energy. For this very reason, when it comes to caring for and nourishing my skin, I rely on Seer Secrets - a brand that relies on formulations documented by the sages - the ones that give 100 percent results. 

Based on rare herbs and extracts documented by Indian ascetics over thousands of years, Seer Secrets is a brand that boasts of a wholesome range of skin care and body care products, accompanied by wellness and healing oils and herbal teas too. 

What's more is that their products are naturally derived, non-toxic, hypoallergenic, vegan, gluten-free, biodegradable, free from triclosan, sulfates (SLS, SLES, SCS), formaldehyde, salicylates, parabens, phosphates, MEA, DEA, TEA, petroleum-based ingredients or dyes, and never tested on animals. 

Sourced from and made in India, the product range at Seer Secrets is a homage to the Vocal for Local campaign advocated by our Hon'ble PM too. 

A couple of weeks back, I received my hamper of goodness from Seer Secrets comprising of six products meant for facial care. I took my own sweet time to try the products at ease before putting out the review. 

• PHYTO-ACTIVE FACE DEFENSE CREAM - NONI GUGGUL SOY PHYTOSTEROL -  TREATMENT FOR ANTI AGEING

This product works on brightening and smoothening the skin, while also being a collagen booster that helps to improve the elasticity of the skin and imparts a youthful look. Also, phytosterols work as agents of skin hydration. 

As the name suggest 'Face Defense' so that's exactly how this cream works to provide protection and regeneration to delicate skin post rigorous exposure to the harsh environment. 

The texture of the cream is smooth and its absorption into the skin is effortless, without any trace of stickiness or heaviness. 

Have a look at the short video I've made to gain an understanding of the formulation and usage of the Face Defense Cream. 

• PINK GRAPEFRUIT, RATANJOT & SAFFRON - LIGHTENING & BRIGHTENING AGE CORRECTIVE SERUM - FOR PIGMENTATION

This serum is a work of antioxidants derived from plant extracts that work to to visibly improve the appearance of wrinkles, dryness, and restore vibrancy to the skin. 

Infused with five citrus essential oils for improving visible signs of aging, Ratanjot improves the appearance of dull, uneven skin tone while Saffron restores hydration to dry, sun damaged skin. 

Ideally suited to aid dry skin, this serum is apt to be used both AM and PM, whilst being followed by a broad spectrum sunscreen post day time use. Moreover it's best to conduct a patch test on inner elbow and observe for a few minutes before directly applying the serum on the face. 

Watch the short video I've made to gain an understanding of the formulation and usage of the Age Corrective Serum. 

• WHEATGRASS, SPIRULINA & MORINGA - GREEN INTENSE REPAIR MASQUE - FOR DETOXIFICATION & TREATMENT OF DARK CIRCLES 

Extracting the goodness of phytonutrients contained in a single-celled Blue Green Algae named Spirulina, this masque comes to the rescue of dead skin cells. 

The repair and regenerative action provides maximum hydration to the skin, while inflammation and eliminating bacteria generating toxins. 

Have a look at the video below where I explain the usage of this masque. 

• SABDARIFFA RED CLAY MASK - TREATMENT FOR DARK SPOTS

This gel is a multi-tasker in terms of being loaded with Iron Oxide and naturally sourced Vitamin C that cleanses, detoxifies, and exfoliates the skin by working on clogged skin pores and eliminating blackheads. 

 

By reducing puffiness and paleness, this gel works to treat a multitude of skin issues. By repairing damaged skin tissues, a youthful look is restored. 

Have a look at the video below to understand the benefits of this Pore Minimizing Clay Gel. 

• MOTHER OF PEARL & VOLCANIC ASH - EXFOLIATOR FOR DEAD AND DULL SKIN CELLS

Enriched with Mother of Pearl which is a natural exfoliating scrub, this scrub is expertly formulated with Niacinamide to tackle the signs of ageing, uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation and restore the sun-damaged skin. 

Restoring the radiance of the skin and imparting it an even toned look is the prime area of focus of this product. 

I am discussing the fine formulation of the Micro Facial Exfoliant in a short video below. 

• ALOE VERA & GUDUCHI HYDRATING & RETEXTURING FACIAL SERUM - FOR ACNE TREATMENT

Vying for that flawless, pimple-free, clear and glowing skin? This serum comes to your rescue with its effectiveness in the form of Aloe Vera and Guduchi Extracts. 

Even though this is an oil-free serum that's light enough to be applied multiple times a day, I would suggest to use it as a partner in your night routine so that you wake up feeling refreshed. 

I have elucidated my usage of the Facial Serum in the video below. 

All in all, I am satisfied with the product range that Seer Secrets has to offer, and would suggest to get these products for yourself if you wish to care for your skin in an authentic manner. 

What's more is that you can make use of my exclusive coupon code - "poonam10" on Seer Secrets to avail flat 10 percent discount on your purchase at checkout, no minimum cart value required. Also, in these times of the ongoing pandemic, the folks at Seer Secrets are also handing out a complimentary Hand Sanitizer with every purchase worth ₹499. 

So, go ahead and make use of the time at hand in lockdown to care for your skin in a worthy manner. Also, make sure to follow me and Seer Secrets on Instagram and FB - @poonam.stiryoursouls and @seersecrets for more such self-care DIYs.  :)

The Legacy Of Flavours At Daryaganj...

Daryaganj is one of the iconic names in Delhi's F&B space. Being the brainchild of Kundan Lal Jaggi and the brand that brought classic recipes for Dal Makhni and Butter Chicken to the fore, Daryaganj in its revamped avatar has found place in the hearts of Delhiites, first at Aerocity and now at Connaught Place.

Done up in tones of beige and blue, with KL Jaggi's portrait adorning the entrance, Daryaganj's CP outlet is gradually gaining prominence being a three-month-old place. The décor has trinkets like antique phones and cameras exuding the old-world charm.

There is a see-through kitchen with a wall of fame of luminaries hosted by Mr. Jaggi on display. On the other hand, there are songs of the bygone era being played in the backdrop, lending an ambient feel to the dining experience.

Coming to the dishes that are must-haves when dining out at Daryaganj...

Begin the meal with Thandai served in a tall glass straight from Punjab, frothed and topped with nuts, but is hands-down one of the best beverages prepared by Daryaganj. On the other hand, the clove powder rimmed Laung Elaichi is a sweet-sour digestive drink.

From among the streets of India, the Chicken Pakora is a nice option as fried munchies, while for appetizers, one can certainly opt for the Original Chicken Tikka, finished with subtle mustard marinade and a lemon glaze.

As for the vegetarian preparations, there's the Kurkuri Mushroom that's a crisp and cheesy bite-sized delight, Dahi Kebab that are puffed yet melt-in-mouth parcels of hung curd flavoured with black pepper kernels to balance the sweetness of curd. On the other hand, a recurrent favourite is the Paneer Tikka that is grilled to perfection and layered with melted cheese and bell peppers.

As a brilliant means to beat the chill in Delhi at this time, the folks at Daryaganj served Murgh Badami Shorba that warms the palate.

Among the Mains, we opted for Saag Paneer and Charrey Alu with Paneer Kulcha that mirrored the home-like preparations because their seasonings were on point. On the other hand, the Biryani-Raita combination is unbeatable always.

To wrap up the meal, there was an array of Indian desserts plated up and it's really difficult to choose a favourite.

On the whole, we had a pleasant time at Daryaganj. :)

Tailor-Made Gastronomy At The Darzi Bar...

The Darzi Bar, located in Connaught Place is one of the places in Delhi's F&B space dedicated to providing a bespoke culinary experience.

Simply put in the words of MasterChef India Season 2 Winner Shipra Khanna whose brainchild Darzi is, as clothes are custom-made for the body, the dishes plated at Darzi are custom-made for the belly.

Located up a flight of stairs with a designated neon-lit trial room at the entrance overlooking a wall full of thread bobbins, the interiors at Darzi stay true to the theme from the word go.

There are neon-lit banners across the outlet, the bar counter is bordered with an inch-tape like inscription, there are tailoring machines for lamps, and life-like tailoring scissors put up on the walls.

Coming to the nomenclature of the dishes on the menu, that too is inspired from Master Ji's dialect and tailoring terms strewn across.

On the whole, the menu has a good variety to offer across Indian, Oriental, Italian, and Continental cuisines and it would be best to go by Chef's recommendation.

Here's what you must try when at The Darzi Bar & Kitchen...

Beverages:

Eye Blinker, a concoction of kokum, chili, mint, lime, and cumin, making the eyes blink in the first sip, true to its name.

Peachy Zipper was a grainy blend of peach and watermelon.

Inch Tape was a pineapple and lavender beverage presented in a vial of smoky liquid nitrogen.

Soup & Salad:

Mexican Tomato and Red Kidney Bean is the classic tomato broth done the Darzi way.

The Original Greek Salad tossed in vinaigrette is done right at Darzi with a hearty mix of tomatoes, olives, feta, and onions finished with oregano.

From the All Day Menu...

Kuliya Ki Chaat was reminiscent of Old Delhi in being a bite-sized fruit and vegetable chaat that had scooped cucumber, apple, and tomato stuffed with an eclectic mix of pomegranate seeds, boiled chickpeas and chaat masala.

ISBT Makhani Maggi was also prepared the street food way with cheese and makhani gravy.

Appetizers:

Kandhari Paneer Tikka is a Darzi specialty and a true must-have, with soft cottage cheese cubes being marinated in beetroot and topped with a couple of pomegranate seeds.

Veg Quesadilla was a true-blue Mexican style platter with salsa and sour cream on the side. The tortilla was crisp, the filling was ample too.

Dahi Ke Kebab was the authentic hung curd snack prepared right at Darzi.

Amritsari Machchi was the classic Fish 'n' Chips platter done right with crisp fish fillet - mustard tartar dip and crinkle fries on the side.

BBQ Chicken Wings rendered in hot barbeque sauce with crinkle fries on the side.

Sulemani Anda is the ultimate egg dish at Darzi, being a one-pan meal with minced egg filled inside a baked egg preparation.

Main Course:

Achari Paneer Pizza at Darzi is a thin-crust veggies and pickled cottage cheese pizza.

Desserts:

Shahi Tukda Croquants were rendered in a pool of Rasmalai, topped with a scoop of Kesar Pista ice cream and garnished with chocolate chips.

Pineapple Halwa is a good break from the run-of-mill Moong Dal Halwa at Darzi.

All in all, I had a great time at The Darzi Bar & Kitchen. :)