With the arrival of the new financial year, appraisal conversations begin to dominate workplace discussions. Employees reflect on performance, managers evaluate impact and organisations decide who moves ahead and who waits for another cycle. Yet, for many professionals, there is often a lingering question : why do outcomes sometimes not align with effort?

Appraisal Season & Career Growth

Increasingly, people are exploring astrology as a way to understand these patterns. While performance and skill remain critical, timing and personal cycles are also believed to play a role in shaping career trajectories. Astrology offers a different lens, helping individuals decode phases of growth, stagnation or transition through planetary movements.

Why Appraisal Outcomes Don’t Always Match Effort
One of the most common frustrations during appraisal season is the mismatch between hard work and rewards. Astrologers suggest that planetary cycles can influence recognition, decision-making and workplace dynamics. Certain periods naturally support growth and visibility, while others may slow things down despite consistent effort.

This perspective does not replace performance, but it helps explain why outcomes can vary across cycles. Some professionals experience rapid growth phases, while others build momentum slowly and achieve more stable success over time.

Using Appraisal Season as a Career Checkpoint
Rather than viewing appraisals as a final judgement, many professionals are beginning to see this time as a moment for reflection and recalibration. It becomes an opportunity to ask deeper questions about career direction, role alignment and long-term growth.

Should you continue in your current role or explore new opportunities? Is it the right time to take on leadership responsibilities or build new skills? Astrology based insights can help bring clarity by highlighting favourable periods for change, stability or risk-taking.

With the rise of personalised digital platforms, accessing such insights has become easier. Apps like Neo Astro are offering customized career guidance based on individual birth charts, helping users understand promotion cycles, job change timing and workplace challenges with greater context.

While astrology is not a substitute for effort or capability, it is increasingly being used as a tool for self-awareness. When combined with consistent performance and strategic thinking, it can help individuals make more informed career decisions.

As appraisal season unfolds, the focus should not just be on outcomes, but on direction. Whether this cycle brings immediate rewards or signals the need for change, understanding personal growth patterns can help professionals move forward with greater clarity and confidence.

As we build up to the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League, we will have a look at key personnel changes and how the teams shape up ahead of the season. In this analytical preview, Eoin Morgan – Chief Cricket Analyst, Parimatch, and Jonty Rhodes- Key Cricket Analyst, Parimatch, two of the game’s most respected cricket minds – deliver a comprehensive breakdown of the makeup of the 10 IPL teams.

Prashant Veer (R) and Kartik Sharma (C) with Rahul Chahar (L) in CSK pre-season camp

The Indian Premier League mini-auction once again brought out many surprises, but none more than Chennai Super Kings splurging over Rs. 28 Crores on two unknown commodities, Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer.

Eoin Morgan’s Scouting Report
With MS Dhoni approaching the end of his career and Ravindra Jadeja traded to Rajasthan Royals along with Sam Curran in exchange for the prized asset of Sanju Samson, Chennai Super Kings entered the mini-auction with a clear plan of strengthening the middle order.

By acquiring the duo for Rs. 14.2 Crores each, the Super Kings set the record for the most amount of money paid to an uncapped player, that too twice in the same auction. The mini-auction also saw Aquib Nabi’s efforts get a fair reward as he became the third costliest uncapped buy in the IPL auction history.

Prashant Veer
In the 2025-26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Prashant Veer made a name for himself whilst representing Uttar Pradesh as the left-arm all-rounder, picking 9 wickets in 7 matches at an average of 18.77, while also bowling at an excellent economy rate of 6.76. With the bat in hand, the left-hander scored 112 runs at a strike rate of 170, which proves that he doesn’t need a lot of balls to settle in before firing off the big shots.

Before the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Veer also made a name for himself while playing for Noida Super Kings in the UP T20 League. While his numbers may seem ordinary, Veer’s fitness and temperament in crucial situations have made him stand out from his other colleagues, and which is probably why the CSK management decided to take a punt on him in order to find the next Ravindra Jadeja.

Kartik Sharma
Kartik Sharma is a talent that we will be seeing more and more of in the coming years, as the youngster started impressing early on in age-group tournaments like Vijay Merchant Trophy and Vinoo Mankad Trophy.

Despite impressing at an early age, Kartik missed the bus for the 2024 ICC U-19 World Cup due to the sheer number of talents India has been producing in the last few years and also couldn’t make it to the 2025 IPL mega-auction.

But, Kartik’s Ranji Trophy debut for Rajasthan against Uttarakhand was phenomenal as he smashed 113 runs off 115 balls, and then went on to score a century on his List A Debut as well in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Averaging 40+ in his maiden Ranji Trophy season and 50+ in his maiden Vijay Hazare Trophy season at a strike rate of 118 makes Kartik one of the most exciting wicket-keeper batters going around in the country.

Still in his teenage years, Kartik is a promising middle-order batter whose strokeplay has amused one and all across the cricketing world and the batter could be a long-term replacement for MS Dhoni who is approaching the fag end of his IPL career.

As seen in IPL 2025, experienced players like Rishabh Pant and Venkatesh Iyer also crumbled under the pressure created by the amount they were getting paid for the league season, so it would be a huge challenge for these two young players to ignore the ‘Big Money Label’ and focus purely on the cricketing side of things.

Jonty Rhodes weighs in on spotting raw domestic talent
I feel it is very important to nurture talent from a young age. I grew up in the 1970s and there was not a lot of coaching around at that time in cricket, especially for fielding, so we had to learn from our own mistakes on the field. 

I personally always wanted to give my best on the field and I learnt this quality from playing other sports like football, hockey, and tennis, and from my father who was a rugby player and did a lot for primary school sports back in South Africa.

These days, fielding has emerged as the third pillar of the game and we need to instill the correct values and attitude in the players from a young age, because skills can be taught but the right attitude must be instilled and spotted from an early age.

While teams like CSK have now understood the importance of nurturing young talent and publicly acknowledged and acted upon the fact that they need to bring in more young talent. Last season, we witnessed the Super Kings bringing in Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, and Urvil Patel and they have picked two more potential young stars in the mini-auction.

The crucial thing in grooming youngsters is allowing them the freedom to fail, as we previously seen multiple times at Mumbai Indians, they have allowed a space for their young talent to flourish with the likes of Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Tilak Varma, and Ishan Kishan coming through at the franchise.

Now, it’s upon these young players coming through to show a commitment to growth with the correct attitude and spread more positive energy and display more athleticism, not only in competitive matches, but also on the training grounds and in the simulation matches.

Galgotias University, in collaboration with Salesforce, the world’s leading AI CRM platform, has established the Salesforce Centre of Excellence – Tableau AI Data Lab on its campus. The initiative marks a significant step towards embedding Artificial Intelligence driven data analytics and visualization capabilities into mainstream academic learning, preparing students for the evolving demands of the data driven economy. 

Salesforce and Galgotias University launch Tableau AI Data Lab

The Tableau AI Data Lab is designed to provide students with hands-on exposure to advanced analytics, business intelligence, and AI enabled data interpretation. With a strong focus on real world application, the lab will enable learners to move beyond traditional dashboards towards intelligent, insight-driven decision making using next generation Tableau and Salesforce technologies. 

Through this collaboration, students will gain access to industry aligned curriculum, practical learning modules, and exposure to enterprise-grade analytics platforms. The initiative also integrates faculty development, workshops, and guided learning pathways to ensure effective adoption within academic programs. 

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University, said, “At Galgotias University, our focus has always been on creating meaningful, industry integrated learning experiences for our students. The Salesforce Centre of Excellence – Tableau AI Data Lab is a step in that direction, where students will not just learn tools, but develop the ability to work with data, derive insights, and apply them in real world contexts. As AI continues to reshape industries, building strong data and analytics capabilities becomes essential, and this collaboration will play a key role in preparing our students for that future.” 

The Centre of Excellence will be accessible to students across disciplines, enabling interdisciplinary learning in areas such as data analytics, business intelligence, AI driven insights, and digital decision making. It is expected to support a wide range of use cases across domains including technology, business, healthcare, finance, and public systems. 

This initiative further strengthens Galgotias University’s commitment to industry integration, experiential learning, and future ready education, while reinforcing its position as a leading institution driving innovation at the intersection of academia and industry. 

About Galgotias University 
Galgotias University is among the world’s leading universities in Quacquarelli Symonds (QS Rankings) and Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings. 

Galgotias University proudly ascends in the QS World University Rankings 2026 by Quacquarelli Symonds, securing a coveted position in the 1201–1400 global band. Ranked 15th among top private universities and 43rd among all Indian universities, this achievement marks a powerful endorsement of Galgotias’ unwavering commitment to academic excellence, global relevance, and innovation in higher education. Galgotias has also been accredited with NAAC A+ grade in its very first cycle, achieving these milestones in a record time of just 14 years.

In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, Galgotias University has been ranked 45th among Indian universities (including both government and private institutions) and placed in the globally prestigious 1001–1200 band. This recognition reinforces the university’s growing stature in the international academic landscape and reflects its consistent progress across global higher education benchmarks. 

These recognitions highlight Galgotias University’s strong focus on teaching excellence, research impact, internationalization, industry integration, and innovation driven learning, shaping globally competent graduates ready for the challenges of the future. 

Danube Properties has unveiled Greenz By Danube, its first large-scale integrated community featuring premium townhouses and villas – marking a major milestone in its expansion into master-planned developments.

Greenz By Danube

Strategically located in Dubai International Academic City, near Dubai Silicon Oasis, Greenz sits within one of Dubai’s most promising future growth corridors. The area is home to over 100,000 residents and will benefit from the upcoming District IO, a major technology hub aligned with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Featuring villas and townhouses with exclusive sky gardens, Greenz By Danube’s completion is expected in 36 to 40 months with handover scheduled for Q4 2029.

Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, said, “Greenz by Danube sets new benchmark for premium master communities – a first-of-its-kind living experience in Dubai. Designed with low-density planning, it ensures prime location and high appreciation guarantee. With 50+ luxury amenities and fully furnished, designer-curated interiors with Dolce Vita, every detail reflects elegance and distinction. Greenz is not just a community – it is a luxury lifestyle experience of a lifetime.”

The development offers 3- and 4-bedroom townhouses, 5-bedroom semi-detached villas, and 5-bedroom twin villas, catering to both families and investors.

Connectivity is a key highlight, with Emirates Road just 2 minutes away, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road within 6 minutes, Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa 20 minutes away, and Dubai International Airport reachable in 17 minutes. The upcoming Blue Line Metro is expected to further enhance accessibility and long-term value.

Focused on lifestyle and wellness, Greenz will feature 50+ amenities across five hubs, including beach-inspired spaces, sports courts, fitness and recovery zones, green areas, and family spaces.

With prices starting from AED 3.5 million and a flexible 1% monthly payment plan, Greenz presents a strong investment opportunity in a high-growth location.

About Danube Properties
Danube Properties, a subsidiary of the Danube Group founded in 1993 by Rizwan Sajan, is among the UAE’s leading private real estate developers. Known for pioneering the 1% payment plan, the company delivers fully furnished apartments complemented by over 40 lifestyle amenities, with a strong track record of quality construction and timely delivery.

Celebrating women in Technology, Art and Leadership, Chandigarh University (CU) hosted first-of-its-kind ‘women only fest’ “HERizon 1.0” which featured 11 competitions showcasing innovation, creativity and leadership skills of female students through coding and problem-solving innovations, innovative thinking & solutions and research and technical articulation.

Chandigarh University Officials along with guests during the launch of ‘Women Only Fest’ HERizon 1.0 at Chandigarh University

The dignitaries who graced the two-day ‘HERizon 1.0’  organised by CU’s University Institute of Engineering in collaboration with IEEE India Council for ‘empowering women through innovation’  Bubbu Tir, writer and former member Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC),  Rasneet Kaur, Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) 2025 topper, Prof Prerna Gaur, Chair-IEEE India Council, Director- NSUT, Delhi (virtually),  Prof (Dr) Raviraja N Seetharam, Vice Chancellor,  Chandigarh University and  Pro Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) Prof (Dr) Raghuveer VR.

Besides Chandigarh University, this flagship women-only fest, was attended by female students selected through over 1000 registrations from 15 Universities in 11 States including Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and Odisha.  Apart from Chandigarh University, HERizon 1.0 was attended by GNA University, CT University, Rayat Bahra University, Chitkara University, Shoolini University, Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for Women, Sri Sairam Engineering College and Panipat Institute of Engineering & Technology (PIET). 

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Guest of Honor Babbu Tir, renowned author and former additional Chairperson Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) said, “Today, women are expanding horizons and we live in a world full of sheroes, not heroes. Today, women do not need borrowed wings to fly. Women no longer need to prove themselves; they have already shown the world that they torchbearers of the society and community. They are here to rightfully claim their place under the sky. Education is the most powerful weapon available to those who otherwise have none the ones who wish to leave the world better than they found it. The only way to dispel darkness in today’s world is through education,”

In her address, Rasneet Kaur, who cracked UPSC civil services exam 2025 with all India rank 51 on her very first attempt without any coaching, said, “Women today are excelling in all the fields including sports, technology and leadership roles among others. India is witnessing a silent revolution and in future more women will be coming forward. You should believe in your voice, believe in your ideas and believe in your ability to lead. I believe that most of the limitations are not outside, they are within our minds. So, try to break those barriers. Do not let your background limit the size of your dreams. Because your background doesn’t decide your future. Second lesson is consistency matters more than motivation. Because motivation will fade away but it will be the discipline only which will keep you going. Even when no one else does believe in yourself, dreams do come true and they require determination along with discipline. It requires a lot of patience and lot of resilience,”

In her virtual message, Prof Prerna Gaur, Chair IEEE India Council and Director Netaji Subhas University of Technology, Delhi said, “Herizon 1.0 celebrates the strength, creativity and leadership of women providing a platform to showcase ideas, talent and innovation,”

Prof (Dr) Raviraja N Seetharam, VC, Chandigarh University said, “More than 50% of faculty at Chandigarh University are females because merit matters more than the gender when it comes to preference in hiring.  Women are leading in every field from technology, creativity or leadership. . In line with this trend, HERizon 1.0 stands is a milestone initiative that fosters empowerment, encourages participation, and creates opportunities for women to lead, innovate, and excel,” 

With a Rs 2.5 lakh prize pool, HERizon 1.0 featured 11 competitions across 3 major tracks including ‘Technology Track’  which included Hackathons, Ideathons, and research presentations, ‘Creative Arts Track’  which included activities such as painting, design, crafts, and media creation. And ‘Leadership Track’ which included debates, pitching, and interactive activities.

In Hackathon, the first prize won by team ‘Cupcake: The Destroyers’ of Shoolini University (Track 1) and team SHE++ of Chitkara University (Track 2). In Ideathon, the first prize was won by The ideators of CGC Landran.  In poster making, Shweta Tiwari from Chandigarh University won first prize. In creative arts category, team Pixel Bandets from Chandigarh University won first prize. In Mehndi design, Manisha of Chandigarh University won first prize. In T-Shirt Painting, team Artsy Babes of Chandigarh University won first prize.

In Nail Art and Face Painting, all three prizes were won by Chandigarh University. In She Captures category, Sargunjit Kaur of Chandigarh University won first prize and  in on-the-Spot Painting, Needle / Crochet/Best Out of Waste category, the Chic threads of Chandigarh University won first prize.  In Clubs Combined category, the first prize for Influence and Pitch events, the first prize was won by team Malaaj of Chandigarh University. In Fun Activity category, Nandini of Chandigarh University won first prize.

About Chandigarh University
Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC.

Website address: www.cuchd.in.