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Have you experienced frequent eye power fluctuations (rapid changes from a few days to a few weeks) that required you to repeatedly switch out your prescription glasses, or have you encountered friends, family, or other acquaintances for whom this has transpired? We will discuss this today because it maybe a cause for concern. Fluctuating vision may be a sign of diabetes or hypertension which are chronic condition that can damage the blood vessels in the retina. Any damage to the retina can cause permanent vision loss and so, a patient with fluctuating vision should seek immediate medical attention. Please Note : Our subject is to cover fluctuations in eye power and possible reasons behind it. We will not cover topics like Cataract and Glaucoma which is mostly attributed to deterioration of the eye. Three most common causes of fluctuating vision are : Diabetes Fuch’s Endothelial Dystrophy Dry Eye Diabetes With increased blood sugar levels usually the crystalline lens is affected and it grows larger, which causes blurring of vision and once the blood sugar levels goes back to the normal, the lens becomes normal. Diabetes also causes water retention in the retina (Macular Edema), all these factors lead to fluctuations in the vision. Treatment for such is as follows : Controlled blood sugar levels Performing frequent blood sugar test Regular annual eye examination to be done, as the vision deteriorates at the later stage and leads to irreversible vision loss Fuch’s Endothelial Dystrophy While Fuch’s Corneal Dystrophy is an eye condition that can cause fluctuating vision by causing swelling in the front clear windshield of the eye, called the cornea. The cornea has to have a very specific amount of water within it to remain clear. If it has too much it becomes swollen and cloudy. ( it’s like looking through frosted glass instead of crystal clear glass). The cells in the cornea that maintain this perfect balance are called endothelial cells, and Fuch’s Corneal Dystrophy causes a decreased number of them, resulting in corneal swelling. Patients with Fuch’s dystrophy will often notice that they see clearly during part of the day and not so clearly at other times. Not always, but often, patients will have blurry vision in the morning that improves throughout the day. Symptoms include: Reduced contrast sensitivity Mild reduction in visual acuity Patient often notice glare around light Difficulty in night driving Clinical diagnoses are based on history and the slit lamp examination done by Optometrists/Ophthalmologists. Treatment: medical and surgical treatment to restore stability of vision Dry Eye In a healthy eye there are mainly 3 layers that coats the surface of the eye (the tear film ); Mucin Aqueous Lipid When there is alteration/ fluctuation with tear film patient experience itching, dryness, redness, irritation, photophobia, vision fluctuation and blurred vision due to break in tear film. Causes of Dry Eye: Reduced blink rate More of near work More time spent on gadgets Working under AC condition Hormonal imbalance Clinical diagnoses are based on history and slit lamp examination done by the Optometrists/Ophthalmologists. Treatment: Regular conscious blinking Taking breaks in between while using gadgets Prescribed lubricating drops to avoid dryness Frame to protect the eyes from excessive wind or dust Tear duct plug – A device used to block tear duct in the eye to keep the eye moist

S.R.Gopal Rao as optometrists, opticians, and, most importantly, as a group concerned with the public's eye and overall health, involve ourselves in various Philanthropic activities. We share this concern and the desire to give back to society with our partner Essilor Vision Foundation. Since NGOs' have a better affiliation with other firms, our partnership with Essilor Vision Foundation has always helped us reach out to a range of individuals and aid them. In order to achieve the same, S.R.Gopal Rao and Essilor Vision Foundation, India, have collaborated on several initiatives throughout the years, the most recent event was our involvement as co-donors in the Special Olympics Bharat on World Health Day. Image Taken From : Special Olympics Bharat Website We were honoured to be associated with the Special Olympics Bharat 2022. Special Olympics Bharat is a Charitable Trust formed under the Indian Trust Act 1882 that uses sports as a catalyst to help children and adults with intellectual impairments transform their lives. On January 18, 2006, the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, recognised Special Olympics Bharat as a National Sports Federation in Priority Category for the development of Sports for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities, particularly in rural areas, which account for 75 percent of India's population with disabilities. They've been working to improve the lives of these people who deserve the best but aren't given the same opportunities as others. Image Courtesy : The Bridge On April 7, 2022, the Special Olympics Bharat offered free health screening for a total of over 90,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities exceeding the target of 75,000 across 100 cities in India. This healthcare screening included general health check-ups, dental care, and eye screening. The contribution is being made to the Amrit Mahotsav to commemorate the completion of 75 years of Independent India, plus the initiative put the healthcare of individuals with disabilities at the forefront and showcased their talents. On Thursday, the event attempted two world records: the largest health examination for the specially-abled and a demonstration by 75,000 athletes to run across the country on the spot. Image Courtesy : Vibes Of India The Chairperson of Special Olympics Bharat is Dr. Mallika Nadda and this Indian social worker and philanthropist expressed her gratitude for our contribution. “The eye examination of the Athletes would be incomplete without the support of partners such as the Essilor Vision Foundation and S.R.Gopal Rao Opticians. Their support in providing eyewear substantiates their commitment towards care with quality. Inclusive health is a space that the Special Olympics has been creating for many years recognising the commitment of organisations through the Golizano Awards. It is a matter of pride for us, that Essilor Vision Foundation and S.R.Gopal Rao Opticians received this much-deserved honour in 2021. Essilor Vision Foundation is playing a prominent role in widening the space of Inclusion in Health in India, while S.R.Gopal Rao Opticians has been dispensing prescription eyeglasses since 1936 and we trust a long way ahead together in transforming lives of Persons with Intellectual Disability.” Images captured at Special Olympics Bharat, Health Screening in Ahmedabad on World Health Day 07/04/2022 Our Chief Executive Officer, Hemanth Manay, and Chief Operations Officer, Meghana Manay, traveled to Ahmedabad to participate in the event on behalf of our team. The S.R.Gopal Rao team also paired up with Mr. Dharmaprasad, Head of Essilor Vision Foundation, India. This event was indeed co-sponsored by S.R.Gopal Rao and Essilor Vision Foundation India. Mr. Dharmaprasad, who has been associated with us for some time, was also delighted and claims it to be a huge success and a personal highlight for him. Similarly, Meghana Manay, our Chief Operations Officer, not only attended the event but also actively engaged with S.R.Gopal Rao's ardent supporters to raise awareness, adds, “It’s a pleasure for us to partner with two prestigious organisations that are working for the larger good. It is not easy for us to create such a large impact on our own. It would have been a miniscule fraction of the work that EVF and SOB have accomplished through this event. We are honoured to be vision partners for the Special Olympics Bharat, alongside Essilor Vision Foundation and will continue to do so in the years to come.” Together, we donated to those with disabilities nearly 7,500 pairs of sunglasses and several prescription eyeglasses. On this particular day, we were pleased to be able to support the cognitively challenged youngsters. We were delighted to be a part of this significant national celebration. S.R.Gopal Rao wishes to progress while also assisting others in developing a better vision and a better life. This experience aided and abetted us in improving our outlook and attitude by allowing us to project a favourable impression on others. Our gesture of goodwill lifts our spirits and helps us feel more optimistic about S.R.Gopal Rao's prospects. We're the kind of people who see the glass half full. We're fortunate to have been a part of this event. It has helped us put things in perspective, and contributing here has enhanced our entire sense of purpose and identity; we feel gratified, fulfilled, and powerful. We aspire to contribute more in the same way in the future. Essilor Vision Foundation and S.R.Gopal Rao Opticians & Optometrists

In light of the pandemic, environmental pollution, and an increase in the prevalence of infectious illnesses, the theme for World Health Day 2022 is Our Planet, Our Health. This theme of Our Planet, Our Health is undoubtedly an attempt to powerfully remind us that these are beyond the exclusive remit of the health sector and, as a result, an effective response will necessitate the whole-of-society approaches. Join us as we commemorate World Health Day by celebrating our efforts to improve and protect the environment. On this World Health Day, we also attempt to explore and honour the achievements of a woman in the field of health care, whom we admire, honour, and are proud of. This phenomenal woman in health care, particularly in the field of vision care, is Dr. Sujata Rao, an Ophthalmologist and the granddaughter of our founder, S.R.Gopal Rao. We discuss this remarkable achiever today in the hopes of inspiring many to follow in her footsteps. Dr.Sujata Rao, Consultant Opthalmologist | Linkedin Dr. Sujata Rao is now in the Channel Islands of Guernsey, but her career began in India. She earned her MBBS degree in Bangalore, finished her post-graduate education at Shankar Nethralaya, Chennai, and gained good experience in Aravind Eye Hospital in Madurai. Dr. Sujata Rao completed her post-graduation in 1994 and spent three years in the Lions Aravind community and institute of ophthalmology; with this knowledge, she returned to Bangalore and helped establish the Rotary Eye Hospital, funded by Rotary and serviced people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. We are delighted and proud of her contributions, but as is de rigueur, this did not come without setbacks and difficulties. Dr. Sujata Rao overcame adversity and thrived to achieve success. Dr. Sujata concedes that she faced difficulties when she was younger. Despite all this, her want to contribute to the health care sector and well being of the people never stopped. She has participated in over a hundred eye camps and performed over 7,000 surgeries. She then worked in Windsor until 2015, before moving to the Channel Islands, where she stayed until 2021 and is currently working with the Rotary Club of Guernsey to execute diabetic retinopathy screening in rural India, on a large scale. Dr. Sujata Rao chose service, and her contributions are recognised on a global scale. We interviewed Dr. Sujata Rao to honour her and introduce her to a wider audience. We intend to learn more about her life, her role in contributing to the health care sector, her perspective on women in science, then and now, as well as her personal opinions on technological advancements and the challenges she faced as the technologies evolved. We did, however, gain more insight into her perspective on relearning everything to be good at what one does, as well as the relevance of unlearning things and being aware of the basics, as they are the foundation of everything that we have become. Check out Dr. Sujata Rao's video interview on our YouTube Channel to learn more. We hope you are inspired and will be even more inspired after hearing her speak, and that you will look up to her.

"We can’t just consume our way to a more sustainable world." - Jennifer Nini Low-cost, trendy apparel that moves quickly from design to retail stores to help us keep up with trends and introduce new collections regularly is a gift in this fast-paced world; what if we told you that this is detrimental to our environment and is bad for the garment workers? The ultimate purpose of fast fashion is to get the newest trends on the market as quickly as possible so that consumers may acquire them while they are trendy. Not long ago, consumers used to buy clothes only seasonally, but now, owing to the fast fashion trend, they shop as often as they want to stay in the trend loop and usually end up abandoning clothes after only a few wears. This adds up to fashion being one of the most polluting industries on the planet due to its poisonous system of overproduction and consumption of natural resources. Along with the exploitation of natural resources, mass production has a significant negative impact on environmental health. As mass-production takes less time, brands and companies are obliged to use low-quality materials to provide low-cost fashions to the market. The overabundance of consumption has emerged from these low-cost, popular items. Also, eventually, to the pockets of customers and garment workers. Although most people are now aware of the concept of fast fashion, it has become popular and appears invincible due to an increase in consumers' desire for up-to-date styles and an increase in consumer economic output, particularly among young people, to indulge these instantaneous desires. What can we do about it? 1. Buy from brands that are eco-sustainable and ethical. Consumers must pay more attention to their purchases and use the power of their concerns to make a positive difference in the environment and for the workers who make our garments and commodities. Look for OEKO-TEX®, GOTS®, or BLUESIGN® certification labels on clothing that limit chemical content. What could be better than shopping from a brand that is committed to environmental stewardship? Supporting brands who prioritise their morals before their profit margin! 2. Purchase high-quality items less frequently. Every year, the garment industry creates 53 million tonnes of fibre, 70% of which end up in landfills or burnt, owing to mainstream fashion's heinous behaviour. To ensure that these quick fashion brands make a profit, they may not enable more ethically-minded businesses to thrive, which may work effectively against rapid fashion trends by promoting sustainability. So, the ultimate weapon is the ability to buy less by buying better. Choose the right product and stick to it. Make certain to have a high-quality product that will not deteriorate after just a couple of uses. 3. Gently used clothing can be donated or sold. How can we make a difference immediately, now that we've gained a deeper understanding of fast fashion? Start donating the excess clothing that will harm the environment when discarded and extend their shelf life. There are more socially conscious businesses today than ever before, and many will now accept donated gently used garments or footwear in exchange for shop credit or a discount. Donate clothes to those retailers and receive a discount. It's also a good idea to look for local organisations that will accept donations for those in need. 4. Recycle and Responsible disposal. Indians discard so much fabric that the country would reportedly require a landfill the size of New Delhi (as claimed by a joint report by ASSOCHAM and accounting firm PwC). Consider contributing to your local textile recycling program if a piece of clothing has become damaged and is no longer wearable. 5. Upcycle old clothes. Let us give our garments a second chance at life. It's entirely plausible. Upcycling is the process of modifying an item to make it better than it was before. In the case of clothing, this typically entails taking something that doesn't fit or is damaged or ripped and refashioning it into a wearable item. Fast fashion has massive repercussions, as it leads to mass-produced apparel. It's components, replication, quick manufacture, poor quality, and low costs/exorbitant discounts have an adverse environmental impact. As a result, it is our duty and responsibility to take matters into our own hands and switch to brands and enterprises focused on sustainability rather than fast fashion. Identify brands that don't provide detailed information about what they are doing to reduce their environmental effect or evidence that they provide decent and safe working conditions, as well as living wages, to their employees. These fast fashion firms are generally greenwashing their clients with false information to make them believe they are ethical and sustainable. On this World Water Day, here is S. R.Gopal Rao's effort to raise awareness about the importance of understanding fast fashion and how to prevent it as it causes massive water pollution. Untreated hazardous effluent from textile industries is thrown directly into rivers in most of the nations where clothes are made. Toxic chemicals such as lead, mercury, and arsenic, among others, are present in this effluent. These are exceedingly hazardous to aquatic life as well as the health of the millions of humans who live along the river banks. The contamination eventually makes its way to the sea and is spread around the world. Fertilisers used in cotton production is another substantial source of water contamination, polluting runoff and evaporation waters significantly. We must act quickly. We can choose clothes created in countries with better factory environmental rules, as well as organic and natural fibres that do not require the use of chemicals in their production. It is critical for each of us to comprehend the importance of understanding the best methods for disposing of products and extending their shelf lives in any manner feasible. Let us choose wisely and let us #sustainourstyle

As we celebrate World NGO Day today, we pay tribute to the NGOs that play the role of aiding the society to be more civil and in helping advance peace, security, and prosperity at the local, regional, and global levels by celebrating our association with the NGO, Essilor Vision Foundation, India. NGOs represent the concerns, interests, and rights of the general public and the voiceless; they are drivers of development and long-term peace, and they can help create a place for debate and discussion. S.R.Gopal Rao and Essilor Vision Foundation teamed together to serve the less fortunate because we share the desire to give back to society. Since NGOs' affiliation with other companies with well-known names helps reach out to a greater variety of people and aid them, Essilor Vision Foundation and SRGR aim to provide better vision and dedication to giving underprivileged people the opportunity to improve their lives through better eyesight. In an effort to achieve this, SRGR and EVF-India came together and organised many initiatives. The First of Many Essilor Vision Foundation and S.R.Gopal Rao Opticians at Krishnagiri and Sajjan Rao School After teaming up, we donated 103 prescription eyeglasses to those affected or infected with HIV and their caregivers at Arcod NGO in Krishnagiri. Following that, at Sajjan Rao Charitable School, eye screening for a total of 378 students was organised, of which 20 required eyeglasses/vision correction. Eye Screening for the Special Essilor Vision Foundation and S.R.Gopal Rao Opticians at Cubbon Park We set up a free eye screening for differently-abled children in Cubbon Park in 2019. We conducted eye screening for around 600 + children and donated 60 pairs of glasses. Partnership that matters Mr.Dharmaprasad accepting the award on behalf of Essilor Vision Foundation and S.R.Gopal Rao Opticians Our partnership doesn't just help us help anybody but also help us in helping those that make us proud. We recently partnered with Special Olympics Bharat to conduct and donate eyeglasses to Special Olympics participants, children, and adults. The Golisano Foundation recognised our efforts for this initiative and presented us with an award. On World NGO Day 22', we will not only celebrate the NGOs that work for the welfare of societies and act as a bridge between society and government, but we will also try to become a part of it. During his interview, Mr. Milind Jadhav, Senior Director - Inclusive Business & Philanthropy - South Asia, Essilor Luxottica, stated that philanthropy is good and that supporting NGOs will help you with your societal contributions. NGOs donate their time, skills, and experiences to the public. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) support initiatives that the government cannot do on their own. They understand problems and can relate to those of the general public. Correspondingly, Mr. Milind believes that giving back to society has an effect on those who support themselves. Everyone has to struggle to make a name for themselves in this world, and people must endure adversity in order to reap the benefits of their success. Each of us is unique. We have a particular set of beliefs and have different ideas about different things, and this individuality makes humans interesting. So, let us attempt to find our ideals and the NGO that supports them. We encourage you to support your favourite cause. Contribute your time and effort in any way possible. It is incredible to honour groups that help a society free of all biases and social injustices. We're marking the occasion with some words from Mr. Milind Jadhav, Essilor Vision Foundation-India. We've created a video and a blog for you as part of our attempt to encourage people to support those who work persistently for good causes and demonstrate that humanity is still alive and strong. Please visit our YouTube channel to discover more about S.R.Gopal Rao's involvement with Essilor Vision Foundation, India (a non-profit organisation).

4 Ways to recycle your eyewear Hey, we're all aware that wearing glasses for vision correction is quite prevalent. However, did you know? About 350 million Indians require vision correction, and only approximately a quarter of the population, or 87.5 million people, have their vision corrected! That leaves approximately 94% with spectacles, 6% wearing contact lenses, and 2.5 percent wearing both. If we include the percentage of children, it will appear as though we have never heard of foods rich in antioxidants for eye health. But wait, there's more. It doesn't stop there; these figures are likely to rise. Now, given all this, do you think we can afford to have more lenses, frames, and glasses go to waste and fill up the landfills? Certainly not! We need to figure out how to fix this, and don't you worry! We shall help within our capacity :) Take them to your optician! We all have our favourite optician [aka S.R.Gopal Rao ;) ]. You may have bought many products from your go-to optician, since you were so enamoured with their eyeglasses, yet some of these may no longer be in use. Take these glasses that are no longer in use or to be discarded to us, as we will accept them and assist you in discarding them responsibly. At S.R. Gopal Rao, as part of our green initiatives, we up-cycle these glasses handed over to us by you in our capacity. We present them to gifted artists, across the country, who transform trash into art! Isn't that great? What if you don't need an artist to do it and instead want to try your hand at up-cycling? Keep reading! Image Copyrights : S.R.Gopal Rao Opticians & Optometrists The world is your canvas, and so are your old lenses, pick a brush and paint your picture. Your favourite pair of glasses could have been a present from a loved one, or it could have been something you got for yourself after weeks of budgeting. Why should it be tossed away because the prescription has changed? Let us not throw them away but rather preserve them. Now, instead of saving them as is, as a special gift, let us upcycle them into something better, a precious new piece with a backstory. If you enjoy making crafts and want to savour that beautiful eyewear; recycled jewellery and DIY home decor can be your go-to thing! Image Credits : Pinterest Pick a colour, paint your lens, add a chain, hang it around your neck. Repeat, make an earring. Voila, now, you have a piece of new jewellery that can be flaunted with a rich past, a cute little backstory. Upcycling your eyeglasses yourself is the best option because it saves money and provides you with a sense of accomplishment. Reuse your glasses! Although your prescription may have changed and you may need new lenses, does this imply you must discard your frames? Not necessarily! Many opticians will aid you in using the same eyeglass frame for different lenses if you seek it. Retaining the same eyeglass frame with a new pair of lenses may not be advertised as the best alternative because it may interfere with the opticians' economic motive, but it is an option you can always choose. Thrift away Pick up your phone, and upload a photo of the glasses you're no longer wearing! You will be startled by the response; your friends and family may be thrilled; after all, they may have been hunting that piece for a long time, and you have just delighted them! You never know who might be interested in your possessions or who might know someone who is. This way, the fancy eyewear you no longer find chic will have a longer shelf life with someone who has recently become hooked with that aesthetic. There are several options for recycling or disposing of your eyewear, but they must all be handled ethically in any case. Instead of contributing to environmental devastation, we should recycle, up-cycle, and repurpose eyewear. Happy Up-cycling! To know more about our green and eco-friendly initiatives, click on this link to get the dets!

A person who cares about the environment will go to great lengths to purchase ecologically responsible products; to create the least amount of harm to the environment. However, there is a good chance that businesses will deceive consumers into thinking they are more environmentally friendly than they are. This deceptive sales tactic is called greenwashing. As an organization that strives to improve every day to become more environmentally conscious, we have created this guide to help you. Let's dive deeper into this subject, shall we? Image Credit: All references from the image above are taken from the Instagram handle of waste-ed.com Greenwashing has been prevalent since the 1980s, and it is only getting worse for the environment because of several brands' unethical conduct. This marketing strategy entails persuading customers that they make environmentally conscious decisions, primarily through using eco-conscious terms to persuade them that the product is more natural or healthier than its competitors. Companies that greenwash their clients spend a lot of time, money, and other resources selling the idea of "eco-friendliness" rather than ensuring that their products are truly eco-friendly and sustainable long-term. An example of this could be, Coca-Cola which markets itself as sustainable and environmentally benign while producing more plastic waste than any other firm. Likewise, Colgate has designed a recyclable plastic tube, as toothpaste tubes are generally made of a mix of plastic and aluminum and are challenging to recycle. Colgate's recyclable tubes, however, are a complete fabrication; the recyclable tube itself contains unnecessary plastic, and claiming that it is recyclable is purely a greenwashing sales strategy. These products are only industry recyclable and most often end up in a landfill, NOT getting recycled. H&M, a well-known fast-fashion retailer, is an example of this as well. The H&M Conscious line generated a lot of positive publicity, and many appreciate this step forward, but the truth remains that H&M continues to mass-produce cheap, low-quality apparel, and as a "conscious" brand does not justify or change that. These are simple examples, but there are a variety of more intricate approaches to greenwashing. However, by using terms like ‘eco-friendly’, ‘100% natural’, ‘recyclable’, and ‘organic and pure’, these businesses escape being blamed for environmental damage. Greenwashing doesn't end with only the propagation of ideas but is much more. It may appear harmless, but it is detrimental because it diverts customers from authentic ecologically-sound brands. Genuine eco-friendly firms invest laboriously to ensure that their products aren't harmful to the environment, but they still obtain no benefit as a result of the diversion. However, consumers can discern the difference between legitimate and green-washed brands despite the gimmicks and choose their products/consumption wisely. Here are some pointers on how to go about it : Familiarize yourself with standards and certifications: Knowing which ones to look for and which ones are hoaxes will help determine the best possible choice. Look for green certificates on their website or the product's label. Opt for brands that have the Energy Star (for energy efficiency), USDA Organic Seal (for organic products), Forest Stewardship Council (for products produced from trees in responsibly managed forests), and Green Seal (for products made from trees in environmentally friendly forests). Do your research: These days, everyone claims to be working to minimize emissions and that sustainability is at the heart of their operations. However, examining the ingredients, the order in which they are, and the accusations on them will help you verify what they claim. Test the brand yourself: Buy products after your research, seek companies that prioritize sustainability. Rather than purchasing a single certified-organic product from a company whose overall approach is otherwise inorganic, shop from a brand that makes the environment its priority. Choose a firm that is also open and honest about its business practices, invites consumer input and open communication, and publishes impact reports; these companies are transparent and readily provide more information. Going green is no longer a novelty but a necessity owing to global warming and the environment right now. Even though Greenwashing is very prominent among brands now, it is not something all businesses do deliberately. ​But how do companies make sure they are not greenwashing their customers unintentionally and are making an effort to be environmentally conscious? Sourcing Locally: The company should start by sourcing locally to support local businesses while also reducing shipping and storage costs. It also aids in the reduction of emissions and energy consumption. Local sourcing not only helps to promote green manufacturing. Green packaging: Green packaging aims to utilize as little fossil fuel energy as possible to lower the carbon footprint of packaging manufacturing, and firms should make a conscious effort to conserve energy through it. Reduced use of natural resources: Sustainable packaging or eco-friendly packaging made from natural+recycled materials helps reduce natural resources consumption. The businesses must also utilize fewer resources because they aid in the overall production process by minimizing manufacturing costs, lowering the cost of waste disposal to landfills, and diminishing the hazardous effect on the environment. Building Sustainable Relationships: Building sustainability is another significant component to adapt to be a successful green company. Partnering with like-minded companies devoted to environmental responsibility can help a business thrive in its quest to become more environmentally friendly. To know more about how we thrive to become a better company, our conscious attempts to avoid greenwashing, and our transparency, learn about the eco-friendly initiatives. We encourage you to eschew being #greenwashed, be aware, and help the environment by making the right choices. Let us go green and give back to the environment.

"Sustainability is about ecology, economy, and equity". -Ralph Bicknese When one decides to make a sustainable effort, it is frequently for a purpose other than their own but to help the environment. It is great to see how the benefits of making this shift often come around helpfully and unexpectedly. Consider how the same purpose would serve in an organisation with multiple employees. Yes, better, as a larger group of people benefits when a company promotes sustainability and prioritises the environment over fast fashion and similar trends. About The Video : An Overview of how we are going green! Check out the video to know more. Irrespective of multiple brands trying to help the people become environmentally aware, some brands influence customers on choosing the easy way that will help the organisation gain profit but harm the environment. Unlike brands that greenwash customers and exploit their customers, we thrive in helping our customers gain awareness of factors that may be against their ideals. Our goal at S. R. Gopal Rao is to make your purchase with us beneficial to your eyes and the environment. We intend to step up our attempts and help the industry become more ecologically sound in the process. We make every effort to dispose of the waste from the entire eyeglasses unit in an environmentally amicable manner. We have invested a lot of our energy in projects that help define our ideas and achieve our goals. To help you explore further about our responsibility, here are our projects. 1. Our Upcycling Initiatives The fact that the garbage industry is not an attractive market indicates that there are only a few companies that offer a good recycling system, which is why some of us don't know everything about our garbage disposal. So, recycling and upcycling are the only methods to achieve a waste-free future. At S.R.Gopal Rao, to upcycle eyewear waste and all related products; responsibly, we have teamed up with craftsmen, upcycling houses, corporations, and non-profit groups from across the country to recycle the trash in ways that are not destructive to the environment or our surroundings. We donate the waste to them as they make the most of it. 2. Spectacle Cases From Recycled Materials Everybody appreciates gifts. Now, why not make it an environmentally conscious one? Our Spectacle cases, from recycled materials are the most thoughtful and environmentally benign present you can give someone or yourself. A collection of our eyewear cases are made from recycled tire tubes that are hand-cut. They have a recycled felt inner lining that gives the spectacles a gentle cushioned support. If sustainability is our approach to spectacles, eco-friendly is our approach to spectacle cases. LINK TO SHOP: https://www.getspexy.com/collections/featured-collection/products/upcycled-cases While the cases mentioned above are sold via Getspexy, we have made major progress on the cases that we give away with the products that we dispense. Our regular spectacle cases are no longer ordinary but are now produced from recycled paper and are completely biodegradable! It's fantastic to have spectacle cases that have a lengthy history with the brand or that have a better environmental relationship. Spectacle cases that have been refurbished and upcycled from old ones have also been added to our inventory, giving the old ones a new lease of life. Thanks to our incredible partners, Kevali, Bangalore Creative Circus, and Corugami, who have improved our vision with actual products that have our hearts and glasses. 3. Tuck Boxes and Outer Packaging From Recycled Papers The product's packaging speaks volumes about it. We understand this better than anyone, and we make certain that our packaging not only promotes our class but also supports our principles. Our beautiful tuck boxes are made of recycled paper instead of virgin paper. Did you know? A tonne of recycled paper saves 17 trees. So, we, at S.R.Gopal Rao harm no more trees in the process! We also use recyclable paper stickers for these boxes. To ensure that we follow through on our commitments, we have FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) recycled and biodegradable shipping labels. We are very careful that we also make certain that the mailers we use are biodegradable, both compostable at home and at the workplace, to ensure that they are part of our assertion. 4. Wooden Eyewear Breathe (Getspexy) We take our interests and objectives so sincerely that we have a collection dedicated to environmental well-being and sustainability! In addition to reusing and up-cycling eyewear, our home brand's eyewear is Getspexy's Breathe range. A collection that prioritises the environment while abiding by aesthetic standards. This is Getspexy's debut collection, and it features nine eyewear styles. The product is made from an environmentally friendly wood. Every frame sold includes a certificate with a QR code that may be used to track the development of a tree, planted in its place. These trees are grown specifically to make these products. We are completely committed to making our firm as environmentally friendly as possible. 5. No To Fast Fashion. Promoting Sustainable Living Fast fashion? It's more like a fast-fading fashion. Our fashion philosophy is sustainability in style. We say No To Fast Fashion, which adds deleterious waste to the environment, and instead retail quality products in limited quantities, unlike many fast fashion firms that produce in mass and are negligent. At S.R.Gopal Rao, we have worked hard to reduce our waste and up-cycle the rest. We have minimised our carbon footprint by investing in sustainable, locally sourced materials for our packaging and some of our eyewear. We up-cycle our scraps as well as build protective cases for our spectacles. Between 2019 and 2021, we have prevented about 1,000 kg of eyeglasses trash from being dumped into the environment. We don't stop here! There is more to what we have accomplished and will accomplish in the years ahead. We've recently collaborated with Kaipanee to Upcycle our eyeglasses, and we're in the process of forming partnerships with a number of other businesses and organisations to collaborate with us and achieve our objectives. We're also working on a solution for properly disposing of contact lenses, which contribute to environmental degradation. Join us and be a part of our efforts to protect the environment. You can drop off your eyewear waste at any of our store locations or check out this link to see how you can participate in our initiatives : https://www.srgopalrao.co/upcycling-intiatives-srgopalrao-goinggreen | Meet our partners and connect with them directly if you would like to make your business eco-friendly and sustainable.

Fashion has been changing for millennia; the dramatic shifts in fashion trends are fascinating as they represent the wearer's personality. It also reflects the bold to subtle choices that make them who they are. Every year, the trend evolves based on the geographical setting, the impact of external and internal influences on a person or a group of people, and the effect of cinema and celebrities. In 2021, the pandemic and factors related to it have had a significant impact on fashion trends; eyewear is no exception to this. The most popular eyeglass trend in 2021 was an incredible range of oversized frames for maximum protection from the virus, indicating how fashion is based not just on appearances but also on societal changes and their evolution. A trend is defined as the capacity to embrace one's individual preferences while simultaneously adjusting to these changes and other pressures. We created a list for you at the beginning of the year to give you an idea of some promising trends in 2022, and we are here to update it now. Don't we adapt to change? Go ahead and check out these trends to make sure we got them right and we'll then give you more of what is popular right now. No 1. Bold shapes and design maximalism The most expressive accessory that somebody may own is a pair of eyeglasses. It completes the look one is trying to achieve and is considered essential by many. What could make the best, better? Of course, bold shapes and design #maximalism, makes a more striking statement. Boldly shaped #eyewear and bright colours go hand in hand; this helps emphasise the strong personality of an individual and draws attention to the contour of the face. The trend is a go‑to and will always have a place in the hearts of those who love retro and those who love to colour block. These edgy eyeglasses will let you attain any style you desire. If chosen correctly for the occasion, the stunning and stern, bold shapes will deliver just what is required. It can give a picture of determination, also an evasive style that will showcase professionalism. More colours and repeated patterns that do not devolve into disarray will undoubtedly make you a show‑stopper. Not to forget Indian fashion has had a significant influence on this trend as Maximalism, unlike its counter‑ style #minimalism, finds Indian design its home. #CutlerandGross, #Marciano, #DolceandGabbana, and #Gucci are just a few of the labels who celebrate and honour this fantastic style. Therefore, if you have a penchant for striking eyeglasses, this is the ideal time to buy them. We still endorse it! We predicted that the fusion of bold shapes and maximalism would be a popular look, and we couldn't have been more right. Although many people value minimalism as a way of life, maximalism has replaced minimalism as the preferred look. The faces we adore from Hollywood to Indian regional celebrities all have frames that are larger than their features. It is high time you own a bold-coloured big frame and boss it as you own it. TAKE A LOOK AT OUR HANDPICKED COLLECTION OF EYEGLASSES BELOW. CLICK ON THE LINK TO SHOP THESE PIECES ONLINE. No 2. Innovations and appearances #Eyewear is nowadays quite #innovative, and the recent trend that goes hand in hand with this is to figure out the many innovations and flaunt it as they own it; because the choice of glasses is about much more than simply how it appears. People purchase brands based on technological advancements and the purposes that they serve. Brands such as #Silhouette, #Modo, #Lindberg and #Gotti are pioneers in frame construction, #MauiJim is the best in the field of #sunglass #lens technology, and #RayBan has been constantly evolving in terms of tech integrations. Some people also favour brands like #EmporioArmani and #Esprit, which serve the objective of saving the #environment with their eco‑friendly material adaptations that advocate noble intentions. As this trend grows, some people are opting for personalised spectacles that incorporate their suggestions with innovative trends. The ultimate goal is to acquire the desired appearance, regardless of the many innovations. According to the majority, #eyeglasses are the most dependable means of achieving this. It has, indeed, evolved into an item that people switch out on a daily basis to suit their looks. Be it a want to project #minimalism, #impressionism, #pointillism, or any other, the correct choice of spectacles will help one. So, owning a pair of glasses that helps one achieve a certain look while making choices for its invention, and the production process is an emerging trend that has undoubtedly become a fashion in 2022 and will continue to do so in the following years! TAKE A LOOK AT OUR HANDPICKED COLLECTION OF EYEGLASSES BELOW. CLICK ON THE LINK TO SHOP THESE PIECES ONLINE. No 3. Bright colours While eyewear is becoming more than just a need for bettering one's vision, it is a vital addition that improves the overall aesthetic. What better way to improve any look than make a statement with brightly coloured #eyewear? The brighter, the better. Isn’t it? Many people use coloured #eyeglasses to show off their favourite style, and the colour of the frames can reveal their personality. There are various compelling reasons why some people might opt for coloured #spectacle #frames rather than the traditional black and silver. They demand statement getups; which is possible with bright colours and prints as it draws attention to the wearer. The distinct hues represent different points of view and expressions. Brightly coloured #glasses can make quite a statement, implying self‑assurance and enjoyment making it the best choice for those who prefer this trend influenced by pop art. #Lindberg, #Gucci, #Ferragamo, and #Giordano are some of the brands that popularised this approach and embrace vibrant colours, along with D&G that welcomes eclectic designs. These brands not only set trends but also assist people in displaying their true selves. We approached the new year super brightly and it couldn’t have been any better! Bright colour designs have swept the fashion world, and we believe this trend will continue for sometime. TAKE A LOOK AT OUR HANDPICKED COLLECTION OF EYEGLASSES BELOW. CLICK ON THE LINK TO SHOP THESE PIECES ONLINE. No 4. Classic style What if we told you that you could buy a pair of glasses that will forever be fashionable? Yes! Classics like rectangular frames, #Browline or #Clubmaster, #tortoiseshell, and round #glasses can exude elegance and charm. Ray-Ban, #HugoBoss, #MontBlanc, #OliverPeoples, and #Cartier are among the brands that best understand the concept of timelessness and produce splendid classics. These modern‑day sophisticated spectacles are not the same as those from the past – they may have a nostalgic vibe, but they have distinct contemporary aspects, tones, and forms. They can be worn as a memorable accent to complete any outfit. TAKE A LOOK AT OUR HANDPICKED COLLECTION OF EYEGLASSES BELOW. CLICK ON THE LINK TO SHOP THESE PIECES ONLINE. No 5. Recreating history with vintage staples #Vintage #glasses are yet another trend that never goes out of style. #Fashion evolves, but it always seems to repeat itself at some point. Vintage has a strong impact on the eyewear industry, particularly #sunglasses. Vintage #eyeglasses keep their owners abreast of current fashion trends with a strong historical resemblance, as brands including Ray‑Ban, Oliver Peoples, and #Persol will attest to it. Vintage eyewear such as horn‑rimmed frames, cat‑eye glasses, rimless eyepieces, and thick shell frames help reveal one's identity and personality to the rest of the world. The impression is classy, young, contemporary, trendy, and out of the ordinary. Why not go back in time and choose a vintage eyepiece in 2022 if you want to redefine your eyeglass style? We stated confidently it'll be a big hit and we sure stand by it now! Did you know? Cat-eye spectacles continue to dominate the list of 2022 eyeglass trends. Geometric cat-eye glasses provide fresh angles to one's facial structure and bring out their uniqueness. Cat-eye glasses are good for people with round faces because they add definition and it is only one example of vintage staples! TAKE A LOOK AT OUR HANDPICKED COLLECTION OF EYEGLASSES BELOW. CLICK ON THE LINK TO SHOP THESE PIECES ONLINE. No 6. Clear eyeglasses Clear frames or transparent eyewear is one of the trends we've seen that is and will continue to be popular in 2022. This has inspired countless designers around the world to apply the concept of transparent to their designs. Prescription glasses are no exception, and they look great on any face shape or complexion. TAKE A LOOK AT OUR HANDPICKED COLLECTION OF EYEGLASSES BELOW. CLICK ON THE LINK TO SHOP THESE PIECES ONLINE. No 7. Eco-friendly eyewear Finally, eco-friendly eyewear is a trend that makes us proud not only of fashion but also of its objective and goal. Many people desire to look well while also helping the environment and this trend has got them. These are eyeglasses that are made from recycled materials or ecologically sound materials making it eco-friendly and sustainable. TAKE A LOOK AT OUR HANDPICKED COLLECTION OF EYEGLASSES BELOW. GET IN TOUCH WITH US TO KNOW MORE. No 8. Accessories for your eyewear In this day and age, it goes beyond just frames. We can't help but rejoice that eye slings are a more prominent component of the current fashion trend. Eye slings are not just stylish accents; they are also a very practical way to secure your pricey eyewear. Visit our Getspexy website to view some incredible eye-sling collections. Asmita Kulshreshtha, a jewellery designer, founded The Slow Studio and we retail these eye slings on our shop site and in store. It is a London-born, ethically handcrafted brand with the best selection and roots in India. What’s even cooler is that some eye slings double up as slings for your face mask as well! TAKE A LOOK AT OUR HANDPICKED COLLECTION OF EYE SLINGS/EYE CHAINS. CLICK ON THE LINK TO SHOP THESE PIECES ONLINE. 2022 still sounds like a lot of fun and also responsible! We're about to treat you as well, predicated on all of these tips. Yes! Stock up on these next trends from our online and offline stores, and flaunt them! We are rooting for you to steal the show for the rest of 2022.

​As a boutique independent retail chain, we have invested well and taken pains to ensure that you are safe when you shop with us. We realize that Covid-19 is here to stay and while it is unknown as to how long this is going to be around it is important for legacy businesses to survive & do what ever is best suited for the healthy and safety of our customers & teams. We DO NOT expect you to compromise on your health & safety when you visit us as such we have adapted our stores (rapidly) to the meet the requirements of the current environment. The health of our teams & customers is the utmost priority at this time. While services like the reorder of contact lenses (a self service which can be done by you through our online website www.getspexy.com, the team is always there to assist), replacement of spectacles frames and lenses can be done through phone/online communication, so that you don't need to step out of your home; others like eye check ups and new sets can be purchased from our outlets comfortably. Precautions taken at our stores are : Appointment based visits are encouraged so that social distancing can be practiced at all times At the entrance you will be greeted by a person who will screen your temperature, given you hand sanitizer, shoe covers and a disposable mask if you don't already have one. Please bear with us and follow these protocols Frames, counters, floors, furniture and equipment are sanitized using the appropriate solutions after each visitor leaves Only a section of the store is accessible to customers with appropriate distance maintained. Optometrist will carry out eye refractions by wearing full personal protective equipment and they sterilize the equipment after each use. Opticians have masks, face shields and gloves for handling frames and lenses We have installed counter separators at every store and on each counter, this acts as a protective shield Air purifiers with hepa filters are installed at the N R Road outlet to ensure healthy air circulation Our lenses are made using state of the art technology and in the safest condition Customers are requested to wear their face mask to cover their nose & mouth, at all times when inside the store and pull it down only when they are trying on eyewear. Customers are requested to leave their footwear at the entrance (we do the same) or wear the shoe covers provided at the entrance. Please bear with us as this is important to maintain store hygiene For re-ordering contact lenses, reading glasses & solution : https://www.getspexy.com/collections For lens replacement services : Call Us on +9180-471-68060 or write to us at eyecare@srgopalrao.com For frame replacement services : Call Us on +9180-471-68060 or write to us at eyecare@srgopalrao.com For new frame & eye check up : Call Us on +9180-471-68060 or write to us at eyecare@srgopalrao.com

Studies have shown that too much screen time and excessive near vision work (like reading) can affect a child’s sight. Like adults, children are also impacted by dry eyes and screen fatigue caused by prolonged usage of devices. There’s a theory that also suggests that one of the reasons for the increase in the number of individuals who suffer from myopia (expected to be an alarming 50 per cent of the world’s population by 2050), is the excessive use of digital devices and prolonged reading hours. However, experts have not been able to come to a conclusion on this. Another study by the American Academy of Paediatrics recommends keeping all screens off around babies and toddlers younger than 18 months. They also say little screen time for children over two years of age and limited to one hour per day should be okay. During this pandemic, parents may find it challenging to keep their children occupied all the time as such succumbing to giving their children additional screen time. Moreover, with most parents working from home the attempt to juggle multiple tasks becomes all the more difficult, given the number of distractions around. Unfortunately, the solution cannot be to encourage outdoor activities for children during the pandemic, thus trying to keep them occupied while indoors becomes necessary. As such, our recommendation is to not take away the screen time or reading time but to reduce the child’s consumption of it and do the following things: The simplest thing to do is to remind them, every now and then to blink when watching the screen or reading. Set a timer or find a way to distract your child every 30 minutes to remove your child’s focus from the screen. Only when they look away from a prolonged fixed distance do their eyes relax and blink rate returns. Instead of only reading on a tablet or phone, encourage them to read real books and engage them with good old indoor board games. Place the digital media at least 18 to 24 inches away from your child. Encourage them to hold it at this distance when watching the screen in an appropriately illuminated space. Maintaining good posture when using the computer or reading is important; the screen should be placed at eye level. Adjust the monitor settings so that the brightness of light from the devices matches that of the surrounding and check for glare on the screen. A study conducted by Brain & Cognitive Sciences Professor- Daphne Bavelier from the University of Rochester states that gaming improves other visual skills, such as the ability to track several objects at the same time and paying attention to a series of fast-moving events. It also states that the ability to see contrast of the individual increases significantly, by 58 per cent for those who play action video games. So, if you must allow screen time then some good, regulated action games for entertainment would be a wise option. Apart from this, given the circumstances, this would be the best time for parents to notice any unusual habits that children follow during screen time. Are they sitting too close to the TV, squinting or tilting their head when trying to focus, closing one eye when trying to read or watch something, frequently rubbing their eyes or complaining of headaches and tired eyes? While headaches and tired eyes could be caused by excessive screen time or ‘computer vision syndrome’, if it persists even after, then an eye check-up would be recommended post the lockdown. All these habits are indicative of myopia, astigmatism or hyperopia in the child and there is no reason to be alarmed of such but necessary to get the child’s eyes tested once things settle. It is important to have the child’s eyes dilated by the practitioner at the time of examination. Blurred vision can impact the child’s studies and performance at school or in sports too. The child may not recognise it as attributed to vision problems, so the best way to score this off is to get your child’s eyes tested at least once every year or when noticeable habits like these develop. Hemanth Manay is CEO and Chief Consultant Optometrist, S R Gopal Rao Opticians & Optometrists and article is shared as published in The Indian Express on 22nd May 2020.

​We have taken several steps to ensure that our facility is kept absolutely clean and safe. The health of our staff, customers and self is the utmost priority at this time. As such we have moved several services of ours like reorder of contact lenses (a self service which can be done by you through our online website www.getspexy.com, the team is always there to assist), replacement of spectacles frames and lenses through phone/online communication, so that you don't need to visit us to avail these services. Fill out the correct form below and avail this service or call us on +9180-471-68060 if you have any doubts. Precautions taken at our stores are : Appointment based visits are encouraged so that social distancing can be practiced at all times At the entrance you will be greeted by a person who will screen your temperature, given you hand sanitizer, shoe covers and a disposable mask if you don't already have one. Please bear with us and follow these protocols Frames, counters, floors, furniture and equipment are sanitised using the appropriate solutions after each visitor leaves Only a section of the store is accessible to customers with appropriate distance maintained from counter staff. Optometrist will carry out eye refractions by wearing full personal protective equipment and they sanitise the equipment after each use. Opticians have masks, face shields and gloves for handling frames and lenses We have installed counter separators at every store and on each counter Air purifiers with Hepa filters installed at the N R Road outlet to ensure healthy air circulation Our lenses are made using state of the art technology and in the safest condition Customers are requested to wear their face mask to cover their nose & mouth, at all times when inside the store and pull it down only when they are trying on eyewear. For re-ordering contact lenses, reading glasses & solution : https://www.getspexy.com/collections For lens replacement services : Call Us on +9180-471-68060 or write to us at eyecare@srgopalrao.com For frame replacement services : Call Us on +9180-471-68060 or write to us at eyecare@srgopalrao.com For new frame & eye check up : Call Us on +9180-471-68060 or write to us at eyecare@srgopalrao.com

The current situation does not allow for us to move out as frequently and as necessarily as we used to prior to the lockdown. It is most likely going to continue being like this for a few months given the current circumstance. Moreover, at present, all opticians in the city are temporarily closed and you can only expect to visit your optometrist or ophthalmologist post this period. Most people would want to avoid visiting the hospitals too at this time unless absolutely needed. Staying at home is the best solution to contain the spread of the virus. As such taking care of your eyes and your eyewear is necessary. We most often tend to neglect that which is easily available and not expensive; eyewear has become one of those products over the last few years. A lot of people also take sight for granted, as such eye health is often abused. However, taking proper care of your eyes and eyewear at this time will help you avoid any uncomfortable and unnecessary situations, especially when most people are now working from home. Here’s what you need to know and do: Primarily avoid Contact Lenses (CL’s) and wear Spectacles. But if you are a Contact Lens wearer, do the following: Please maintain the hygiene of your lenses by disinfecting it and the container in which it is kept every day. Use water and soap to clean the container and the Lens cleaning solution to disinfect the Lenses Always store your CL’s in the container provided with sufficient lens solution Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly before wearing and taking them off, even if you haven’t stepped out of the home. Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes. Use the Lenses only for the duration specified by the Optometrist and not longer. Do not sleep or take short naps with your Contact Lenses on (very important) If you have a common cold or dust allergy, avoid Contact Lenses since it may irritate the eyes. These steps will help avoid the cause of any damage, infections, pains or discomfort caused to the eye for Contact Lens wearers. If you use Spectacles as an alternative, then this would be the best time to use only your eyeglasses and not Contact Lenses. Eyeglasses will avoid a lot of unnecessary discomforts caused when working from home. You tend to touch your eyes lesser when wearing spectacles and it also acts as personal protective equipment. Another, for instance, is when one takes a short nap in between computer time, doing this with your Contact Lenses on is definitely not recommended. Studies show that the normal blink rate is anywhere between 10-15 times per minute. This is reduced to half when using digital devices, especially when working on the computer. Also, computer use tends to cause more incomplete blinks, so the tear film is not spread across the entire cornea. This leads to screen fatigue or what Optometrists call digital eye strain. How does one recognise screen fatigue or digital eye strain? The symptoms are as follows: eye fatigue and discomfort, dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, neck and shoulder pain, eye twitching and red eyes (generally appears because of dryness and eye fatigue). 5 steps to help you recover from or avoid digital eye strain is as follows: Use proper lighting, avoid harsh light or bright light over your work area Minimise glare on computer screens by checking where the reflection is coming from in your surroundings and blocking it. Adjust your computer display setting to match the brightness of the light in your surroundings, change the text size and contrast to what you feel is comfortable and adjust the colour temperature to reduce the harmful blue light emitted from your device. Maintain proper posture; hands in line with your shoulders while using the keyboard and screen in line with your eyes. This will reduce or remove the pain caused in your shoulders and neck. Take at least one 10-minute break every hour. Consciously try to blink more often and if dry eyes persist call your Optometrist to ch eck on easily available lubricants that will assist you with the same. Exercise your eyes by following the 20-20-20 rule which implies for every 20 minutes take a break from your device for 20 secs by directing your gaze 20 feet away from you. If you can’t do this then blink 10 times by closing your eyes like you would when you fall asleep. Do this every 20-30 minutes. Use eyeglasses with protective coatings and lens designs which will help reduce the strain on the eyes and will also cut out the entry of harmful blue light. Consult your Optician for these solutions. If you have broken your Spectacle Lenses and need a Replacement or have run out of Contact lenses and have no Lens Cleaning Solution, then reach out to us and we will sort you out. Stay home, stay safe. Written by Hemanth Manay, CEO & Chief Consultant Optometrist at S.R.Gopal Rao Opticians and published in the Pharma Times on 30th April 2020, during the Covid-19 Pandemic Lockdown in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

Books, electronic appliances, furniture, groceries, clothes, precious jewellery and now eyewear, everything is available online. Oftentimes the online shopping experience is superior because a wider range of products are on offer at attractive prices. We at S R Gopal Rao have always taken pride in embracing change and catering to customer’s needs, since 1936. And recognising the need for an online store, SR Gopal Rao now retails fine eyewear through its own website and its chic online store called GETSPEXY . Online too, you can expect the same level of quality, trust and service that you have come to expect of us over the years. However, ordering spectacle frames, contact lenses or sunglasses online can be a little tricky. We have, therefore, put together a handy list of do’s and don'ts while shopping for eyewear online. Choose frames that suit your lifestyle At SRGR, we take care to understand your lifestyle and specific needs before prescribing frames and lenses. Do you wear your spectacles while running or working out? Do you wear contact lenses while riding your bike? If you have specific needs, it is best to come in for a physical consultation where you are assured personalized attention and care. Our on call services today consists of frame or lens replacements, re-order of contact lenses, purchase of contact lens solutions and/or ready to use reading glasses. You can find all these on the existing website or on www.getspexy.com. Don’t be short-sighted while choosing progressive lenses Other online stores may not tell you this but progressive lenses cannot be processed correctly without pupillary distance marking, and capturing this information online may lead to errors. And errors can prove expensive. Individuals can fall while navigating steps, not gauge traffic correctly while driving or see double when faced with oncoming lights. If you require bifocal and multifocal lenses, please make the effort to procure them in-store only. Necessary markings to maintain accuracy can only be addressed over the counter for accuracy. In keeping with this idea, SRGR online only retails single vision products online. No progressive or bifocals are dispensed online unless it is a replacement of old lenses, because our customer satisfaction, safety, and comfort come first, always. Making the switch to contact lenses for the first time? Contact lens technology has advanced tremendously. Today, customers can choose from daily, monthly, yearly disposable, and coloured contact lenses. Contact lenses power varies from your regular spectacle power and come in different sizes. And if you have astigmatism or cylindrical power, there are different contact lenses that are needed. So as a first time contact lens wearer it is very important that you consult experts to make the right choice. When you walk into our store, optometrists at SRGR will fit you with lenses that are most comfortable, and advice you on how to wear and care for them daily. So, please don’t take the risk of ordering lenses without an in-store visit for the first time. Image Courtesy : www.columbiaeyeclinic.com Pick brands you know and trust If you are trying out a new product or choosing an unbranded pair of frames it is best that you visit a store physically to get a ‘touch and feel’ sense of the product. It is hard to assess material quality online, even with all the technology at hand. Also, we strongly urge you to avoid buying from unauthorized retailers online. Offline and online, SRGR takes pride in maintaining exact quality standards. In order to maintain our reputation as retailers of fine eyewear, we never stock sub-standard products. All frames and sunglasses are selected by the management. Unbranded products too are procured with care and new products are first tried in house before being recommended to customers. Check for after-sales service Always check for after-sales service when you buy eyewear online. Because service is still done offline, in stores. Offline vendors do not service frames unless it is from their online-counterpart. However, S R Gopal Rao ensures a seamless experience for our customers. We are the authorized retailer for several brands and we ensure that our customers can rely on the same quality of service even if they purchase eyewear on our online store.

The Melvins - a hip, contemporary round shell pair of glasses by Original Penguin allows you to slip into your own little world. Frank Sinatra, Clint Eastwood and Richard Nixon have each had the distinct but discreet icon of Pete the Penguin take pride of place on their eyewear. Melvin is the combination of a style that is truly forever with craftsmanship that lasts a lifetime. Check out the eyepiece on our online shop : Penguin's Melvin

Do you dream of changing the world? Excited about a new song you have written, a sauce you bottled, a hovercraft you built, a space you’ve discovered, a business you want to launch? Want to check if people love your recent invention? Well you are guaranteed an audience if you are in Bangalore, my friend. Because Bangalore has had a love affair with all things new, for as long as anyone can remember. No wonder, it is a favourite test market for brands, and a mecca for entrepreneurs. Today, we have selected a few experiences that will delight those of you who are always looking to experience the flavour of the season. This post is dedicated to the brave ones amongst us, who boldly go forth where others fear to tread. Become an Escape Artist Bangalore is now home to three different live escape rooms, where groups of people are challenged to enter a themed space, find clues, crack puzzles, and escape - all within a fixed amount of time. Inspirations for the rooms include movies, video games, fantasy writing and more. Image Courtesy: www.whatshot.in Get together with colleagues, family and friends, and pick the scenario that interests you the most. Some escape rooms will call for some old fashioned sleuthing, where you have to solve a murder, others rely upon your collective wit to outdo kidnappers, or bio-terrorists who will unleash a deadly virus if you don’t stop them in time. If ancient history interests you more, go forth and find buried treasure in a Egyptian landscape, or if you are a fantasy fan, step into a land of vampires. Always dreamed of being the bad guy? How about attempting a prison break? Or making off with priceless art and pulling off a heist! There are escape rooms of every colour and stripe. And they all challenge your ability to think on your feet. The concept originated in Japan and became popular in other parts of SE Asia, and today, they offer Bangaloreans a chance to detox from the digital world and test their real-world lateral-thinking skills. So the next time you are thirsting for a break from the same pub-grub routine, head to an escape room in Koramangala or in Indiranagar. You can pay anywhere from Rs 400 - 600 per head for a 45min to hour long adventure. Check out the following spaces: Riddle Room | Breakout | Escape Room, Bangalore Make in Bangalore How about spending a Sunday fashioning a bookshelf with your very own hands with carpentry tools, or using a 3D Printer to prototype anything from a smartphone cover to jewellery? Would you like to channel Elon Musk to build a robotic component or wearable? Or perhaps you are a whiz at coding the app of the future. Design a game, use a welding kit, or CNC lathe - there is no end to the tools at your disposal in the makerspace of your dreams, Workbench Projects. Makerspaces are spaces where tools and devices are at your disposal, so people can come together and collaborate, where they can talk to each other, design, and build a passion project, or perhaps create a breakthrough product of the future. Workbench Projects is Bangalore’s very own makerspace and co-working arena. It offers 5000 sq ft of space, right under Halasuru Metro Station, to all inventors, innovators, entrepreneurs and tinkerers of the city. A crucible for all sorts of experimental projects, they conduct regular workshops to train you, they offer access to tools and devices, and have created a platform where you can meet like minded folks and find mentors to bring your project to life. So go check out what’s bubbling under here. Image Courtesy: www.diyhacking.com Cook up a storm Do you julienne ginger and zest a lemon when you cook? Do you critique your takeaway dinner as if you were on your own version of Masterchef or Kitchen Nightmares? Do you wish you could don an apron and cook up a storm in a lovely looking kitchen, if only for a day? Well, look no further, Slurp Studio, culinary studio and school is here to make your gastronomic dreams come true. The chefs and trainers here are a damn sight, sweeter than Gordon Ramsay, and they will watch over your group as you chop, stir, mix, knead, fry, saute and bake your way to a delicious meal. Slurp Studio is on 12th Main in Indiranagar, and since they have opened, the studio has hosted birthday parties, baby showers, corporate team building activities, regional cuisine popups and more. Their event calendar always has something new to offer, be it a workshop on Asian cuisine, a crash course in Lebanese cooking or a how-to make your own Bento box. Reserve a seat at one of their public cook-along events or book the studio for a private cooking session, that ends with a meal tasting that you made yourself!

Over the last two decades, Bangalore has changed and how. Today its new avatars are many - startup capital included. In the past few years, the city has emerged as a cycling capital of the country, and is a mecca for runners, football lovers, bike enthusiasts and athletes in general. From being known for its draught beer and hole in the wall pubs in the 90s, today it has become brewery central with the government doing its bit to encourage the microbrew business. And while the dot com business in the 2000s attracted the first wave of valley-returnees, today Whitefield has again become home to seasoned hands from the tech industry from all over. Bangalore is always promising and delivering on new experiences. We have put together a list of a few of these events, workshops and activities that can help you explore, all that the city has to offer. Saddle Up! On 7th May, the kind folks at ICycle organised a ride from Bidadi to Magadi via Manchanabele Dam and Savandurga Forest. Participants assembled in Sadashivanagar before heading out of the city. The 30 km long cycling trail itself is perfect for newbies and meanders through a lake, dam, forest and a temple, with enough stops for you to take in the scenery. Riders got to cycle on tarmac and test their MTBs on a muddy road as well. You can even rent cycles from ICycle! If you have bought a cycle that is slowly gathering dust, if you are looking to find a group to kickstart your love for the sport, or if you want to escape the confines of the city for a few blissful hours and head out to greener pastures, this is the time to do it! Look out for similar activities on their website. Image Courtesy : ICycle If running is your first love, sign up for the The Tougher 10K scheduled to take place on the 10th July, 2016. Over 7000 Bangaloreans pounded the streets last year, and this year too fitness enthusiasts are sure to be out in full force to make sure you start training and register early to secure your place under the sun. Pretend to be on the sets of Mad Men Make yourself an Old Fashioned. Or learn how to pour a Manhattan. Make sure your Mojito isn’t too sweet and that the Cosmo hits the spot. If you have always rued the fact that it is hard to find good cocktails in the city, why not just learn how to make your own? Get in touch with Tulleeho, who will set up a special cocktail-gurukul for a group of friends, in the privacy of your home. Tulleeho have been conducting wine and whisky appreciation workshops, bartending classes, wine tours, in Bangalore and other metros for over a decade. And what better way to spend a spirited weekend than learning to mix some deadly cocktails, and tasting them to make sure you got it just right? Image Courtesy : www.tulleeho.com Go Food Truck Hopping Food TV addicts who could only drool at the offerings on Eat Street (the show that brought food truck culture into our living rooms) can now have their fill of gourmet and homestyle offerings right here in Bangalore. The past year or so has seen this trend catch on, and the city is now home to at least a dozen mobile kitchens that serve up everything from Pork Vindaloo to PBJ sandwiches, beer battered fish and beef burgers, to brownies, ice creams, desi chaats, Mexican churros, Newyork style hotdogs and more. Each food truck has their own set of followers and favoured haunts, you can follow the truck of your choice on Facebook and live track them on Twitter, or find many of them in one space, during events like Kitsch Mandi. The foodies at LBB have done a great job listing every single food truck that is making its way through our city, click here to induce some serious cravings and take your pick. Image Courtesy: www.lbb.in

Ever admired the impeccable style of the characters who star in Mad Men? Do you gasp at how everyone seems to live in well cut suits, sport beehive hairstyles and wear oh-so-chic glasses? Wished you could channel some of that effortlessly suave 60s style? Well what if we told you that Bangaloreans a few generations ago were equally stylish, thanks in part to SR Gopal Rao, optometrists and stockists of fine eyewear, for decades. Let’s take a quick walk through trends in eyewear, over the decades, all through the eyes of the family that has run this establishment since the mid-19th century! If we were to step back a couple decades when the founder SR Gopal Rao was himself in charge, from the 40s to the 60s, we would likely find far fewer imported brands on the shelves. A majority of the frames were manufactured right here in India by brands like Asta. Only glass lenses were sold and the choice of materials for frames was restricted to metal and shell. Demi Amber (DA) coloured glasses were in vogue, and so were clip on accessories, unless you could lay your hands on the English, gold frames ‘Altan’. From the 1960s to the 1980s, Chandrashekar Manay was at the helm of affairs and he stocked brands like Montex and Elite, that were popular for their shell frames. The Montex Gokiro Shell, with a thin wire rim, was Mr. Manay’s personal all-time favourite - and turns out that these now-vintage frames are a collectors item today. Elite, another classic brand was a much in demand brand back then for it manufactured shell and keymounts (half metal, half shell). Virco Industries made full metal and keymount frames. However, what will probably make you truly nostalgic for the era gone by are the seemingly humble prices...frames then cost anywhere between 15 rupees and a whopping 60 rupees! Fast forward to the 1980s, when Mr. Hemanth Manay took over the reins and ushered in international biggies like Giorgio Armani to the market. Mr Hemanth Manay who still guides the business, has always been passionate about this highly reputable, quality brand. And, not surprisingly, SR Gopal Rao continues to invest heavily in Armani’s collections. The reason for this loyal following is perhaps the classic, timeless appeal of these frames that last generations. SR Gopal Rao seeks to take a leaf out of this legacy brand’s book, as Giorgio Armani launches inspiring campaigns like ‘ Frames of Life’ that put stylish eyewear at the centre of all that we see, wear and do. Crossing over to this millennium, Uma Manay entered the business in 2004. This decade saw rimless, sleek, barely-there frames become popular. Her tastes coincided with what was popular. Her personal favourite happens to be Silhouette Eyewear, an Austrian brand known to make the lightest and most tough titanium rimless frames. Perhaps she is drawn to the brand because they make hardy, stylish frames that are versatile enough to weather any situation...to go with her multifaceted personality, for Uma wears many hats. She is a fashion designer, amateur golfer, business manager and obviously, a connoisseur of fine eyewear! Cut to the present, when Meghana Manay became the 6th generation to become part of this iconic family business in 2011. Meghana is a business management graduate and has trained under her father in dispensing optics. And like the rest of her family, she too, displays impeccable taste when it comes to eyewear. She professes a love for the legendary Persol brand. She is also a fan of Maui Jim , who focuses on superior technology and customer service. She is particularly impressed by these brands that have continued to zone in exclusively on eyewear. While their frames and sunglasses cost a pretty penny, she is aware of how much time these manufacturers spend in research before they create a product. Persol for instance, uses only the highest quality acetate to make its frames and has innovate springs which are hidden from view. These iconic brands also spend time training retailers to provide an unmatched level of service to customers. Not surprisingly, their classy appeal endures even with the new generation, embodied by Meghana Manay.

If you have moved to Bangalore not so long ago, you are probably familiar with every new watering hole in Indiranagar. Perhaps you can recommend the best place for a late night snack in Koramangala and make your way through Whitefield like a boss...but have the more traditional, unhurried parts of Bangalore remained a mystery? Do you rarely venture into Jayanagar, Basavanagudi, Malleshwaram or the market in Chickpet? We have curated a few fun events and must-see and do experiences to get in touch with the traditional side of Bangalore. Be an adventurer and explore a new side to your own city with your friends and if you have been a long time resident, renew your relationship with this familiar but forgotten territory. Walk like a Bangalorean Learn all about Nandeeshwara Temple that was buried under layers of soil until recently. Hear the story of how the temple was only discovered during a chance excavation to prevent a politician who was attempting to sell the land. Try the idli and shavige at Veena Stores, the masala dose at Janatha Hotel or the akki rotti at Halli Mane. Stop by C.V Raman’s home that still stands to this day, next to MES (Mysore Education Society) College. Discover the many delights of Malleshwaram in unhurried walk through the neighbourhood. And, if you want a trusted and knowledgeable guide to lead you through the area, sign up for the Malleswaram Walk, that begins bright and early at 7:30 am. You could check the details on the website for price, schedule and availability. The walk starts at the Kadu Malleshwaram Temple, home to the deity after whom the area is named. Image Courtesy : www.eventshigh.com Become part of a 77 year old musical tradition Kanjeevaram saree clad maamis with flowers in their hair, men in dignified, crisp white veshtis, kids learning to keep ‘taal’ to the music on stage...the atmosphere at the Sree Ramaseva Mandali’s annual event, the Ramanavami Music Festival is like none other. Their website lists this event as the world’s longest Indian Classical Music Festival, taking place over 31 to 36 days in April and May. This year’s lineup of musical acts is stellar. The Ramanavami Concerts are a great initiation into the world of Carnatic and Hindustani music for the novice, and a treat for regular kutcheri goers in Bangalore. For the acts include Malladi Brothers to Priya Sisters, legendary singers Yesudas, to Bombay Jayashree and Sanjay Subramanian, violinists L Subramanian and many many more established and upcoming names from the world of music. The entire list of performances and dates can be found here. Most of the performances are scheduled to take place in the Old Fort High School Grounds, in Chamarajpet, one of the oldest localities in Bangalore. Image Courtesy : Ramanavami Music Blogspot Watch an ancient art form in a contemporary avatar Imagine creatively fusing Karnataka’s folk theatre form Yakshagana, and modern theatrical tools, to create a hybrid performance that combines, dance, drama, elaborate costumes, makeup and music, to ask contemporary questions about gender and power. An experimental, critically acclaimed play, Akshayambara tries to do just that and it is playing in town at Shoonya Gallery on the 30th of April and Rangashankara on the 1st of May. Yakshagana, that originated in the coastal parts of the state, traditionally employed male actors who essay even female roles. However, Akshayambara, explores the conflicts that arise when a woman is cast in a pivotal role, and plays a man, whereas, a male artist plays Draupadi. The performance will be an interesting way to glimpse the grandeur of a colourful folk art form, in an inviting, wholly Bangalore setting. Don’t forget to go early and sample some delectable sabudana vadas or crisp rottis at the Rangashankara Cafe, in the leafy bylanes of JP Nagar. We can’t think of a more delightful way to see a traditional, culturally-rich side of Bangalore than that! Image Courtesy : www.bangalore.citizensmatter.in

What makes Bangalore special? Is it the old world charm that unites neighbourhoods as different as Cooke Town and Girinagar? Is it the chameleon like ever-shifting appeal of the high streets of Indiranagar and MG Road? Or is it a bit of both? This combination of sleepy-town-meets-electric-activity sets our ooru apart from any other. Things are always evolving, even when seeming to stand still. So here is a list of experiences that captures the spirit of change, here and now. A Touch of France, in Bangalore Not so long ago, Church Street was known more for its dive bars and bookstores, but suddenly, over the past year or two it has transformed into a hip hotspot again. This is in part due to the emergence of cool new spaces like Numa BLR. Numa (formerly Cobalt) is many things to many people. It is a co-working space for entrepreneurs eager to get their startup off the ground. It is a cultural hub that hosts talks, documentary film screenings, garage sales, design workshops and more. And since March 07th it has evolved into the Numa Cafe. The big idea is to have a changing menu with different food startups running the kitchen. What better way to get feedback than feeding real, live customers? However, the Cafe at Numa now has a French touch, for they have roped in French food truck company, Le Casse Croute to cater. Drop in for French press coffee, airy desserts, sandwiches and more. And become a part of this vibrant scene of entrepreneurs, artists, and foodies who are always hungry for change. Image Courtesy: Numa BLR Farm to Table anyone? In the recent years there has been a move to go back to the basics...to ditch the conveniences of pre-packaged, microwaveable, fast meals and get in touch with the earth and its bountiful produce again. You can rejuvenate your senses, get away from the city, and experience the thrill of slow-food all at a farm on the outskirts of the city. While there are many farms that welcome volunteers, Hariyalee’s Farm to Table Visit, in collaboration with A Green Venture, takes the experience one notch higher. Visitors get to understand natural farming techniques, learn all about Indian heirloom seeds and get hands on by plucking salad leaves, fruits and vegetables for their healthy lunch themselves! Interact with the farmer and resident expert Dr. Prabhakar Rao and come away feeling enthused to start your own kitchen garden. Sign up for updates on their next outing here! Image Courtesy: Green Venture Read More on....Evolving Bangalore | Evolving Bangalore Collection