Search Results

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

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

No two eyes are the same, so why should the eyewear be? There is much more to buying the perfect pair of eyeglasses than what first meets the eye. It’s not just choosing the right frame, cool shape, or funky colours but also the correct lenses. If frames are the skeleton, then lenses form the entire body of an eyewear. And with the advancements in optometry and technology eyeglass wearers can now choose from a variety of lenses and lens coatings for both sunglasses and prescription eyeglasses. At SRGR we choose to dispense lenses only from tried and tested companies; those that spend significantly on research and design, keeping the end wearer in mind. Corrective eyeglasses are important and compromise will not help your vision but might lead to other problems. Spectacles or prescription lenses have now evolved from the initial glass reading stones of the 10th century. At SRGR we offer our patrons 3 different types of prescription lenses, Single Vision, Progressive and Bifocals. These lenses can be chosen for both prescription spectacles or sunglasses as per the needs of the users. Let's have a look at some of these lenses. Single vision lenses: designed for individuals who either have myopia (near-sightedness) or hypermetropia (long-sightedness) and to serve a single prescription to assist the user in seeing distant or near objects or both. Progressive vision lenses: designed to solve problems for people who have multifocal limitations i.e. the inability to see either distance or near objects or both. The main benefit of this type of lens is that it helps to see both near and far objects without using 2 to 3 different glasses with different sets of powers for the same. These lenses have different focal points in a single lens, with no visible line, to help the wearer see distance, intermediate and near vision clearly. Bifocals vision lenses: designed to help the wearer see two visual zones clearly having two different prescriptions i.e. one for distance and another for reading. These are available in different designs with two segments : a half moon or an inverted D or a no line bifocal (new) for the reading segment and the rest of the lens is for distance. But gone are the times, when glass lenses were the only option for spectacles and plastic lenses for sunglasses. Today, even the material of the lens plays an important part in creating the perfect pair of eyewear for you and your vision. The materials used in making prescription eyeglasses vary based on the power and its purpose. For example, prescription lenses for sunglasses are available only in certain types of materials while clear and photochromic lenses will be available in almost all materials. Some of the materials used in creating the lenses of the eyewear are: CR-39, MR lenses, Polycarbonate, Trivex and Glass lenses and each material is designed to provide a solution for a specific vision need. KNOW MORE Inspired to update your eyewear or wanting to try out any of these lenses for your current pair? Visit our stores or book a consultation with our skilled opticians and optometrists for the experts advice today!

For most people, fashion is an exciting concept. A deeply studied and discussed construct, it is constantly changing, much like the cycle of seasons, and is the basis of how people around the world choose their personal style. Every year, fashion forecasts are something people anticipate. As the awareness of fashion grows, so does the option of not following it precisely and using it as a source of inspiration for our own style. In a post-pandemic world, a lot of people favour a mix of both comfort and practicality with that of fashion. Thus, trends become more of a suggestion rather than a rule. Eyewear trends are no exception when it comes to fashion trends, as they define one of the most crucial aspects of our body - our eyes. The right eyewear with the perfect lenses can not only define, but also enhance our peepers while shielding them from the glare of the sun and the screen. It is said that the ideal eyewear can give someone a completely different persona, be it meaningful or menacing, depending on the type of eyewear chosen. So whether it is ordinary spectacles for daily use, contact lenses for special occasions, or chic and bold sunglasses for fashion, eyewear should be selected thoughtfully and judiciously. Wondering what style to choose in the year 2023 to make your eyes turn heads? Thumb through this guide that we have created to get an insight into what is predicted to be hot this coming year! Futurism is here and how! Image Courtesy : Emporio Armani (instagram handle) | This model is available in store with us Not for the faint hearted, futuristic looking eyeglasses are all set to be the hottest trend in 2023. Inspired from all your beloved sci-fi shows these glasses are going to be a spin on the existing wrap-around athletic frames or a play on the construction of the angular oversized styles, some even with a clear shield kind of lens. With the advancements in wearable technology, these glasses will also come fitted with tech that lets you record videos or even take calls. Ready for the future? You will be with a pair of these frames in your kitty. Thicc is chic Image Courtesy : Cutler & Gross (instagram handle) | This brand is available in store with us If bold and maximal was the name of the game in 2022, then thick rimmed frames are set to be all the rage in 2023. Whether round or square, in a spectrum of colours; big, and large, thick rim frames are set to bring the drama to the party in 2023. With softer and bolder colour palettes, more fluid silhouettes, embellishments, tinted lenses, and transparent frames, thick rimmed frames are going to light up every fashionista’s face this coming year with their comfortable yet luxurious style. Understated elegance, minimalist style Image Courtesy : Lindberg (instagram handle) | This brand and eyeglasses are available in store with us A true blast from the past, super thin wire rimmed frames, especially in metal are all set to make a comeback in 2023! With a modern updated refresh in design and crafted in a plethora of colours such as, silver, sheer skin tone silhouettes, pastels, nature-inspired patterns, with double bridges and even in futuristic-looking style, super thinned frames will be perched prettily on every trendsetter facecard this year. Green is the new black Image Courtesy : Getspexy | This brand and eyeglasses are available exclusively in store with us With the rising climate change consciousness, eco-friendly glasses will become even more popular amongst people of all ages. With companies working towards minimising their carbon footprint with the products they produce, expect innovations in materials used to create more eco-friendly eyewear such as natural wood, recycled plastic, cork, and bamboo. Brands will also foray into making not just eyewear but also accessories such as eyewear case, cleaning cloths, and packaging completely recyclable and biodegradable. Not compromising on style one bit, these earth-friendly options will go towards easing your conscience while leaving you looking oh-so stylish at the same time. Check out S.R.Gopal Rao’s in-house brand Getspexy, which has created an absolutely stylish range of wooden eyewear called Breathe. Shapeshift your eyewear Image Courtesy : Gotti Switzerland (instagram handle) | This brand is available in store with us Geometric-styled eyeglasses got its name from its hexagonal or octagonal shapes, and don't seem to be going out of trend any time soon. It is predicted that in the coming year, the style will evolve with a blend of classics such as aviators or d-frames with geometric styles to create an ultra-modish look for 2023. The versatility of the geometric frame is what makes it hugely popular giving the wearer plenty of options to choose from. Not to mention the instant style glow it gives to the face of the wearer. It's cool to be flamboyant! Image Courtesy : Versace (instagram handle) | This brand is available in store with us While blacks, browns, gold, and silver have always been the go-to colours for any eyewear frame, 2023 is the time when colourful frames will truly emerge into power. Frames that boldly scream daring and let you stand apart from the crowd will rule the fashion. Whether in geometric, or cateye, clean thin silhouette or oversized frames, colours like red, orange, yellow, green, blue, pink and any other that a wearer can think of will be the top pick in the coming year. With innovation in materials used in making of the frames, brands are set to bring out a true cornucopia of colours that will leave the wearers spoilt for choice. Overall, it’s going to be an exciting year for eyewear as designers will continue to explore new materials and unexpected shapes to create unique designs that make a real fashion statement. A renewed focus on minimalism, statement pieces in smaller sizes that make a big impact, bold rims, bright colours, and exaggerated frames will all make an appearance on the eyeglasses of fashion-forward individuals. So get ahead in the fashion race by stocking up on these trends from our online and offline stores, to flaunt them with style! S.R.Gopal Rao is set to prep you with the latest eyewear to help you steal the show in 2023. If you want to cop these styles get in touch with us or visit any of our stores today! https://www.srgopalrao.co/contact-us

Looking at the last couple of years, a lot has happened in the world of contact lenses and spectacle lenses. With advancement in technology and material, many new options have been approved and launched. Glasses and contact lens technologies are slowing down myopia, treating and tracking medical conditions, and changing the visible world. Let’s take a look at a few of such recent developments and what we can look forward to in the future. Advancements in contact lenses Contact lenses are no longer worn just to boost vision. New smarter lenses can perform various functions like delivering medicines to projecting a digital display in the eyes. While all these developments are new, some of them are yet to be tested against time, until fully developed for off the counter dispensing. Listed below are the newest development in contact lens technology for disease detection, drug delivery and vision enhancement: Contact lenses for controlling myopia progression in children Cases of childhood myopia are on the rise world over, including India. Though single vision lenses have been successfully used to restore far vision, they can’t stall the progression on myopia. Fortunately with advancements in smarter lenses now there are high-tech contact lenses available which go beyond correcting vision. MiSight lenses are the first FDA-approved contact lenses for controlling myopia progression in children. A light-adaptive lens In another win for optometry, the U.S. Food and Drug administration gave its approval to contact lens that darken automatically in sunlight to reduce glare and increase comfort. Johnson & Johnson’s Acuvue Oasys contains a photochromic additive that automatically darkens the lens when exposed to bright sunlight and returns to regular tint under regular or darker conditions. Lenses for administering eye drops One of the most common methods of treating many ocular diseases is through eye drops. Though effective, the delivery of this treatment is riddled with multiple issues like quick evaporation, tear dilution and non-specific absorption. Providing a unique solution to these problems are drug-releasing contact lenses which are currently being developed and will offer relief to people who suffer from diseases such as microbial infections, dry eye, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. Johnson & Johnson has developed a disposable lens that is preloaded with a medicine that helps with itchy eyes. This is especially helpful for people who wear contact lenses and have to remove them to administer drops. Lens for monitoring glaucoma There are contact lenses available now with sensors which could help identify patients at risk of progressing to severe glaucoma. The Triggerfish lens by SensiMed consists of a silicone contact lens with an embedded strain gauge to measure changes in the corneal radius of curvature as it fluctuates with pressure within the eye. Augmented reality lens Mojo Vision is developing a smart contact lens with a built-in visual display meant to magnify images for people with low vision. The lens can even project content from a smartphone. The lens, when fully developed will provide an “Invisible Computing” experience, allowing the user to receive information instantaneously, unobtrusively and without using their hands. Smart contact lenses which zoom in and out A team of researchers from the University of California San Diego have developed a prototype of biomimetic soft contact lenses that can zoom in and out with the blink of an eye. The lens uses the electro oculographic signals generated when the eyes move and changes its focal length depending on the signal generated. Still under development, researchers hope to use this tech to create adjustable glasses and other visual prostheses. Advancements in spectacle lenses Spectacle lenses have evolved vastly from the initial glass reading stone of the 10th century. Here are technological innovations that made big leaps in recent times which you need to know about: Prescription 3D glasses Wearing 3D glasses over your own prescription glasses while watching a film can be cumbersome and frankly downright annoying! Thanks to technological innovations in the eyewear industry you no longer need to do that. Prescription 3D glasses are customized to your prescription with lenses that enable a person to see programmes and films in 3D. You will soon find these at our outlets. Auto-focus lens Still in the prototype phase and under development at MIT and Stanford are self-focusing lenses : new lenses that will focus automatically and allow the user to see correctly from any distance. Researchers hope that this innovation will be helpful to people with age related trouble focusing on nearby objects. Advances in freeform technology for greater accuracy New advancements in spectacle lens manufacturing have made possible new high-definition spectacle lenses that correct high-order aberrations, with the potential to give you better vision than ever before achieved with normal eye glasses. Called the free-form lens, these lenses are manufactured using the free-form technology which allows the production of complex surfaces and designs with extreme precision. Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS) The fast growing incidence of myopia amongst children has been the bane of existence for optometrist and ophthalmologists everywhere. With new-tech lenses addressing this vision issue, researchers hope to slow down and alter the course of this ocular problem with Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS). DIMS are speciality spectacle lenses which incorporate small, multiple segment mini lenses within the peripheral vision portion of eyeglasses to redirect incoming light and have proven to significantly slow down the progression of myopia amongst youngsters. Conclusion-Don’t be left behind Change in consumer behaviour and preferences has made continuous technological developments in concepts surrounding contact and spectacle lenses mandatory. It is no longer just about the ability to see, but comfort, design, looks and betterment that are important considerations as well. With rapid evolution of disruptive technology, it’s in optometrists’ best interest to stay up to date so they can best serve the needs of their patients.

Eyes that are crossed remain crossed! Carrots give you super-strong eyes! All of us grew up hearing these tales from our parents. But how much truth is there in these old tales? Discover some common misconceptions regarding children's vision and dispel them with the help of our in-house optometrist, Triveni. 1. Children can not have an eye exam until they can talk or read The finest observers of infants are mothers and immediate family members because they spend a lot of time with them. Observe the child to see if they follow hand movements or if they even follow sound. Also look for squinting (crossed eye), excessive watering, nystagmus (continuous eye movement when seeing an object), or even any white opacities (something unusual) retinoblastoma, congenital cataract and so on. Eye care professionals use specialised equipment that enables them to assess a child's visual capacity without requesting any input from the child at all. It's crucial to assess and keep track of a child's eye health in addition to their vision. In fact, it's crucial to evaluate a child's vision as soon as possible after childbirth (if there are any concerns*), as well as again during infancy, preschool, and school. At SRGR, we advise that kids receive their initial eye checkup by the age of 3. Even if we can see infants as young as six months old under certain cases**. * ROP of premature ** Cataract, Squint, Retinoblastoma, Nystagmus. 2. Sitting too close to the tv will damage child’s vision In reality, compared to adults, children can focus up close much better, without eyestrain. However it is important to understand the difference between cause and effect when it comes to watching TV up close. If you find that your child is sitting very close to the TV, while this probably won’t cause nearsightedness. It may be an indication that your child is already nearsighted. You might want to have them checked for this condition by an eye doctor. While sitting very close to the TV may cause eye strain or give you a headache, it will not damage vision in your child or an adult. If your child is staring at the TV/ computer/ video game screens for long time, there is tendency for them not to blink. We should encourage them to take breaks, and look into the distance for a while, follow the 20-20-20 rule. Whats is the 20-20-20 Rule? When we use our eyes for near work, our focusing system can become fatigued. Our eyes can also get dry. Scheduling regular breaks can help to alleviate some of the strain. The 20-20-20 rule is easy to remember for every 20minutes of near work, look at a target 20 feet away for 20 seconds. You can now return to your near activity. 3. Using glasses or contact lenses will weaken your child’s eyesight No using glasses don’t weaken the eye, in fact it reduces eye strain and enhances the vision. In cases of myopia /shortsightedness, even if the child wears glasses /contact lenses there is going to be a tendency of increase in the number (myopia), as the body tends to grow (eye being a part of the body also tends to grow). It is said that by wearing contact lenses myopia can be arrested to a certain extent and contact lenses wearing increases the field of vision by nearly 30 percent plus in some case it is cosmetically more acceptable. Also, contact lenses are a very good alternative to spectacles when the child is actively involved in sports. As such, a child’s refractive error does not worsen whether they wear glasses or contact lenses, but could worsen without wearing the correct prescription. It is always advisable that the child gets used to glasses and later can always shift to using contact lenses at a later date, if they are not cosmetically happy with glasses. In most cases, people use both contact lenses and glasses, divided based on purpose/occasion. 4. Eyesight is inherited so there’s nothing you can do to prevent vision loss Vision loss and sight are two completely different areas of concern. Just because your child has prescription sight does not mean it will result in vision loss! If one of parent is wears glasses or has an eye sight problem, there is always a possibility that the child can develop it too. The odds are at least 1 child will eventually need glasses or have a vision problem. While it is inheritable, it doesn’t mean that all your children will be affected. It is a combination of inheritance and environmental factors that can cause refractive errors and eye sight problems. Studies show that some of the genetic problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, Glaucoma* and Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) seem to have some relation to inheritance. But, there are some vision problems that have nothing to do with genetics. For example, Presbyopia: near vision problem after 40+age or Cataract which is an age related degenerative change in the crystalline lens are age related eye concerns. Having good health, which includes eating a healthy diet, limited screen time and not smoking will help protect your eyes. By following all these things, you are protecting your vision now and for the future. Getting an annual eye examination is always advisable to rule out any eye sight problem. As the saying goes ‘’Prevention is better than cure”. *Glaucoma: raised intra ocular pressures. (like how we have blood pressure to the body, like wise we have pressure in the eye, which is called intra ocular pressure) when the pressured are raised it causes damage to the optic nerve (the nerve that connects the eye to the brain). 5. If you cross your eyes, they stay that way “Don’t cross your eyes –they will stick that way” that’s something most of us have heard from our parents at one time or another. But it will not stay that way. Crossing your eyes for an extended period of time might cause a temporary strain on our eye muscles; BUT no medical evidence suggests that they would stick that way. You would most likely suffer from some eye spasms or twitches and your eyes might experience fatigue, but they would certainly return to normal within a couple of minutes or so. While your eyes won’t get permanently damaged by crossing them voluntarily, there is a disorder that can cause them to focus inwards. This condition is called strabismus (squint) and can lead to amblyopia (also known as lazy eye), which can cause double vision in the affected eye if not treated. Have additional queries or would you like to have the eyesight of your kids examined? Book an appointment for an eye checkup with our highly skilled optometrist today!

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.

Disability often cripples one’s dreams and breaks their wings, but there are people who see beyond their disability and rise like a phoenix from the ashes. White Cane Day celebrates such people with limited sight but enormous vision! Like Louis Braille who wanted to read since his childhood, prompting him to invent the Braille system of reading and writing for the blind when he was only 15, or Helen Keller who broke all shackles to become the first visually challenged person to earn a degree and then become an advocate for people with disabilities. There are numerous people among us who have achieved success despite their vision impairment. They have shown the world that being visually impaired is not a hurdle to reaching your goals and accomplishing great things. Listed below are 6 famous people with visual impairments including total blindness, sight conditions, or blindness in one eye. The legendary Bollywood music director, Ravindra Jain, was born blind. His father spotted his musical talent while he was still young and arranged for him to be formally trained. Ravindra Jain overcame his visual impairment and gave us iconic music, memories of which are imprinted in the minds of music lovers across generations. He became one of the most notable music directors of the 1970s with innumerable hits to his credit, including Saudagar, Chor Machaye Shor, Chitchor, Geet Gaata Chal, Fakira, Ankhiyon Ke Jharokhon Se, and many more. He was also awarded the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award of the Republic of India in 2015 for his contribution to the arts. A visually impaired cricketer and former captain of the India National Blind Cricket team, Shekhar Naik regained 60% vision in his right eye after a successful surgery. In 2000, he was enlisted into the Karnataka team and in 2002 into the national blind cricket team. In 2010 Shekhar Naik went on to captain the Indian team. Under his captaincy, the team won the T20 Blind Cricket World Cup in 2012 and Blind Cricket World Cup in 2014. In 2017, he was awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India. Apart from playing and coaching, Shekhar works as a sports coordinator for an NGO called Samarthanam, which funds the Cricket Association for the Blind in India. A singer-songwriter, musician, and producer, Stevie Wonder is often considered a musical genius and a pioneer in many musical genres. A child prodigy, he lost vision due to retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). However, his disability did not stop him from making it big in the music industry. From teaching himself to play the harmonica when he was 5 to learning to play the drums by mimicking the rhythm from the radio when he was 8, Stevie Wonder became the youngest solo artist ever welcomed into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, he sold more than 100 million albums and won 25 Grammy’s! More famously known as Jack Sparrow from the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, Johnny Depp is blind in one eye and near-sighted in the other. It wasn’t until a 2013 interview in Rolling Stone magazine that he revealed his visual impairment. “I’ve never had proper vision,” he said. “Everything is just very, very blurry.” Depp has long been one of Hollywood’s biggest and quirkiest stars. In addition to the successful Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, he starred in Alice in Wonderland, Sleepy Hollow, and Edward Scissorhands. Apart from being an actor who has won many accolades, he is also a musician. The first visually impaired person to join the Indian Administrative Service, Pranjal Patil, was born with weak eyesight and completely lost vision by age 6. She appeared for the UPSC exams twice - in 2016 and then in 2017, her rank in 2016 was 744, but on her second attempt, she secured an All-India rank of 124. Pranjal Patil never took coaching for IAS preparations. She used special software that dictated the books out loud to her. Even though one of her senses was not available, she used the advantage of her hearing ability and cracked the challenging UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exams. After her first attempt in the civil services exam, she tried to secure a job in the Indian Railways Accounts Service but was denied the job due to her impairment, this only made her resolve to get into the services greater. Pranjal Patil is currently posted in Kerala and is currently the Sub-Collector of Thiruvananthapuram. A two-time Olympian and two-time Paralympian in Track & Field events, Marla Runyan, was diagnosed with Stargardt’s Disease, a form of juvenile macular degeneration that causes central vision loss and legal blindness, at the age of 9. In 1992 and 1996, she represented the U.S. in the Paralympic Games, winning five gold medals and setting numerous world records in the T13 classification for athletes with visual impairments. Despite her limited vision, Marla Runyan went on to qualify and compete in the 1996 U.S. Olympic Trials in the heptathlon where she was placed 10th against fully sighted athletes. In 2000, she made history when she earned a spot in the U.S. Olympic Team - the first time a visually impaired athlete and Paralympian had qualified for the U.S. Olympic Team. Marla Runyan is considered one of America's most versatile athletes in U.S. Track and Field history. As we commemorate White Cane Day, we at S.R.Gopal Rao would like to salute every visually impaired person who has broken the mould and persisted in moving upward. Every one of you has the potential to reach for the stars and we are sure you will!

The second Thursday of October plays host to the World Sight Day every year. This year the annual event falls on the 13th of October. But what is World Sight Day (WSD)? World Sight Day is an international day of awareness, held annually on the second Thursday of October, to focus attention on the global issue of eye health. Coordinated by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), this year’s World Sight Day theme is “Love Your Eyes.” Tips for people across all age groups to #Loveyoureyes World Sight Day is an incredible opportunity to educate people about the importance of eye care. We at SRGR believe that eye health is not just about the ability to see. It is about the ability to have a vision-a clear and healthy vision of the future. It is our firm belief that the earlier we adopt this vision, the higher can be our quality of life, as eye health impacts so many other areas of life and well-being. We also believe that early and consistent eye care, which begins at a young age and continues as we get older, is key to preventing vision impairments and eye problems. This year SRGR wants to celebrate World Sight Day by sharing simple tips to #Loveyoureye for different age groups: 1. #Loveyoureyes tips for children & adolescents Good eyesight and vision are crucial in ensuring that a child develops to their full potential socially and academically. Here is how parents and caregivers can ensure that they give the eye health of their child the attention it deserves: a) Replace screen time with time spent outdoors: Staring at the school board and school books all day, followed by playing video games or watching TV in the evening can cause eye strain. This can be prevented by incorporating more outdoor activities which have been proven to delay the development of myopia in children. In addition to being good for their physical health, outdoor activities like swimming and cycling are beneficial for a child's developing hand-eye coordination. b) Take care while reading & watching TV: Always ensure that a room is adequately lit when your child is reading or watching TV. Also maintaining a healthy range of 40-50 cm between your child and the book or electronic device will reduce the burden of strain on your child’s eye and ensure that they remain healthy. c) Discourage kids from rubbing their eyes: Kids tend to rub their eyes if they feel something in them. This can be the cause of frequent infections due to the germs that pass from the hands to the eyelids. Kids with eye infections like conjunctivitis can worsen their situation by rubbing their eyes. d) Teach them about eye safety: You might think that your child knows it intuitively, but most children need a reminder to keep their eyes safe from sharp objects like scissors & pencils and to avoid getting anything in anyone else's eyes as well. e) Watch for warning signs: Keep an eye on your child for any problems with their vision. Symptoms like squinting while reading, headache, and unusual head tilt indicate vision problems and are worth getting checked. 2. #Loveyoureyes tips for young adults Young adults in today's world have to keep up with the demands of their work, studies, and hectic social life. In this balancing act, their health, including their visual health gets ignored. But the good news is, they can take care of their eyes even while juggling a bunch of other priorities with these optic care tips: a) Give your eyes a break: From studies to work to entertainment. Everything in a young adult’s life requires them to stare at computer screens and digital devices for long periods. Encourage them to get into the habit of taking frequent breaks and giving their eyes a rest by looking into the distance every few minutes. b) Follow contact lens hygiene: Similar to contact lens rules to be followed when traveling, young adults need to follow good hygiene to prevent eye infections due to contact lens wear. Small steps like washing your hands before handling contacts, using good quality contact lens solution, and removing contact lenses before bed, can prevent eye infections, irritation, and other conditions that can result in vision loss. c) Follow makeup hygiene: Sharing your eye makeup with others or using their makeup can increase the risk of eye infections like conjunctivitis. It's important to use clean sponges & brushes, and to remove eye makeup before sleeping, to prevent eye irritation and redness. 3. #Loveyoureyes tips for older people Our vision deteriorates as we become adults and even more so during our senior years. Luckily, some great steps can be taken to prolong and protect vision as we reach older ages. Our blog on eye care tips for the elderly covers in detail steps that can be taken to prevent eye-related diseases amongst older people, but here are a few key ones: a) Track your vitals: With age, people need to regularly monitor their vitals like blood pressure, glucose levels, and cholesterol levels. These systemic diseases have a direct impact on the blood vessels in the eyes and can cause serious retinal damage if ignored. b) Use prescription glasses: Regular use of prescription glasses amongst adults & senior citizens who are near or farsighted helps in reducing eye strain and decreases the risk of falls and accidents. Making your eyes work harder by not wearing prescription glasses puts additional strain on them which can lead to other vision problems. 4. #Loveyoureyes tips for all age groups There are a few #Loveyoureyes tips that should be followed across age groups for good vision and eye health in the long term: a) Eat & live healthy: A nutrition-rich balanced diet consisting of leafy greens, fruits and vegetables are essential at all ages for your eyes to receive the nutrition they need to function at their best. Exercising and staying physically active from a young age into old age ensures proper blood flow and oxygen required for healthy eyes. b) There is no age bar for eye-checkup: Getting a routine eye exam is important as vision-related issues and eye diseases can happen unexpectedly at any age. The earlier an eye problem is detected, the earlier an appropriate treatment can be recommended to ensure successful vision correction and life-long benefits. c) Sunglasses for eye protection: Exposure to ultra-violet rays of the sun is harmful to the eyes at any age and can be prevented by wearing good quality, 100% UV protected or polarised sunglasses at all times when outdoors during daylight. How World Sight Day has become central to SRGR With its single-point focus on eye health and the importance of getting eyes checked, World Sight Day is a central part of SRGR. It underscores SRGR's mission to elevate the quality of life through high-quality eye care and vision solutions. It aligns with our ambition to inculcate and promote sustainable business practices by making eye care accessible and equitable. Furthermore, it supports our goal to contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 3—good health and well-being. This year we walked the talk by conducting free eye check up for all people in or visiting Bangalore from the 9th to the 15th Oct 2022 across all SRGR outlets. Going forward, we hope to uphold the spirit of World Sight Day and give back to the community through different programs.

International Day for the Elderly | Senior Citizens Day It is normal for people to develop vision problems and eye-related conditions as they grow older. There are articles that state that "while there are less than 20 percent of people above 50 years of age globally, over 80 percent of them are living with treatable blindness.” Research cites that approximately one person in three has some form of vision-reducing eye disease by the age of 65, corroborates this thesis. These statistics are a cause of concern for India’s elderly population which is projected to increase by 41% and touch 194 million by 2031 from 138 million in 2021. Most common causes of vision loss among the elderly; like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, cataract, and diabetic retinopathy, may be initially asymptomatic. Supplemented by systemic health problems like high blood pressure and diabetes, the impact on their eyes can be catastrophic. On this International Day of Older Persons, here are some eye care tips for the elderly to retain healthy eyes and vision: 1. An eye check-up (or two ) a year keeps eye diseases away One of the best ways for senior citizens and the elderly to stay on top of their eye health is to schedule regular annual eye exams. Even though ageing is a fact of life, most elderly and senior citizens do not realise they need prescription glasses until there is a significant deterioration in their vision. During your regular visit, your optometrist might also check for and detect the onset of common age-related eye problems such as cataracts and AMD, enabling treatment at the initial stages and preventing them from worsening. Given the link between the eyes and the heart, an eye check-up might provide timely insights into serious cardiovascular issues as well. 2. Monitor blood pressure, glucose level, cholesterol A key way for elders to boost their eye health is to regularly monitor and take care of vitals like blood pressure, glucose levels, and cholesterol levels. Left unchecked and untreated, these systemic diseases can damage other organs, including the eyes. The adverse changes in the blood vessels of the eyes as a result of high blood pressure or high cholesterol can contribute to serious retinal damage in the elderly. 3. Wear prescription glasses or low vision aids as needed Most elderly people need prescription glasses for near or farsightedness. Wearing them not only ensures that you don't accidentally trip and fall but also prevents eye muscles from coming under unnecessary strain. Failure to wear prescription glasses makes your eyes work harder to focus, further weakening eye muscles & vision amongst senior citizens. For seniors with low vision despite medical and surgical interventions, their Optometrist might prescribe low visual aids which allow them to stay mobile and function independently. 4. Protect your eyes from the sun Elders can be more prone to eye problems related to regular and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Excessive sunlight is a factor in the growth of cataracts; which is a common eye issue amongst seniors. To prevent this and other health issues related to direct sunlight, elders must always protect their eyes by wearing UV protective sunglasses. This will reduce your risk and ensure that your eyes are safe. 5. Follow a healthy lifestyle with clean eating & regular exercise A healthy and a balanced diet consisting of leafy greens, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are essential for a healthy body including the eyes. Regular exercise provides proper blood circulation and oxygen intake by all body parts. In the eyes, this aids better vision amongst the elders even if the exercise is not strenuous. Smoking is one of the biggest health hazards which affects more than your lungs and heart. One key eye care tip for elders is to quit smoking as it is associated with an increased risk for cataracts, as well as AMD. Conclusion-Why eye care is important for seniors Vision issues have a significant impact on those who experience it, as well as their family and loved ones. Studies on visual impairments amongst older people have associated them with depression, poorer quality of life, and reduced social activity. Lack of independence and mobility at an advanced age due to eye-related diseases and vision issues can play havoc with their self-respect. Older people with impaired vision are more susceptible to injuries and fractures. This fear of falling and losing balance and instability can further force seniors to reduce their daily activities, pushing them into the pit of loneliness. A holistic approach to health means that we need to take care of our physical and mental health, and following the above eye care tips for elders is a big part of that. Support from families and loved ones in the form of acquiring information on age-related eye conditions and getting regular eye check ups are important tools for mitigating eye-related risks amongst the elders. Visit the SRGR clinics today to get an eye-check up for the elders in your family. Our clinics are equipped with state of the art technology and highly qualified optometrists to give a complete and a thorough eye check up involving refraction and diagnosis of any underlying problems which may require deeper inspection.

They say that your eyes are the window to your soul. While we can’t speak to the veracity of that, there is solid research to show that they are a window to your heart health. Problems and conditions that affect different parts of the body can manifest as vision and ocular health problems. 29th September is World Heart Day and, on this occasion, we wanted to highlight how you can unravel the mystery behind your eyes to detect, diagnose and prevent various heart diseases. 1. Eyes & heart: two separate organs with a strong link Though the eyes and the heart are two very different organs, they have more in common than one might expect. Our eye’s blood vessels are closely connected to our hearts through our retina vasculature which are blood vessels arranged at the back of our eyes. This wonderful connection acts as the link between the eyes and the heart and helps detect heart problems during examinations of the different parts of the eyes. During an eye examination, your ophthalmologist can use an ophthalmoscope to examine and analyse different parts of your eyes like the lens, pupil reflexes, retina, and optic nerve, which can reveal issues with your heart and blood vessels. In particular, arteriovenous nipping, narrowing of retinal arteries, and the dilatation of retinal veins are important signs of increased cardiovascular risk. a) Shared risk factors & treatment Some cardiovascular and eye diseases share underlying mechanisms. It’s no surprise that the risk factor for many heart diseases like arteriosclerosis & systemic hypertension and eye diseases such as retinal vein occlusions are common. What’s more, in addition to having a strong underlying pathological process, they may benefit from the same type of treatment. Studies on links between carotid diseases and eye diseases show that patients with atherosclerosis detected in the carotid vessels were more likely to have AMD and diabetic retinopathy. Suggesting a strong link between cardiovascular functions and risk factors, and the occurrence and progression of various eye diseases, a study published in the European Heart Journal states that “Risk factors for arteriosclerosis, such as dyslipidemia, diabetes, or systemic hypertension, are also risk factors for eye diseases such as retinal arterial or retinal vein occlusions, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and increases in intraocular pressure (IOP).” 2. What can an eye exam reveal about your heart condition? These common characteristics between the two can greatly benefit if your ophthalmologist looks at the bigger picture during an eye check-up and help detect the following heart diseases: a) High blood pressure Hypertension, more commonly known as high blood pressure, occurs when the weight of blood against the arteries is too high. Since patients with high blood pressure rarely have physical symptoms, they don’t discover the issue until they come for an eye exam which can prevent more serious issues like a stroke or a heart attack. An eye specialist can look at the blood vessels in your eyes to detect signs of high blood pressure. An irregular size ratio between the size of the retinal arteries to veins, which normally stands at 2 to 3, indicates high blood pressure or cardiovascular risk factors. Left undetected and untreated, this can cause blood clots, bleeding in the eye, blurry vision, and even blindness. b) Blocked arteries Another heart-related condition that can be detected in the eye is an arterial embolism. This occurs when an embolus gets stuck in and around the retina, resulting in restricted or blocked blood flow, which can result in tissue damage, stroke, blindness, or even death. c) Diabetes Diabetes, which has a damaging effect throughout the body, including the heart, can too be diagnosed through an eye exam. Small changes in the blood vessels (haemorrhage) or neovascularization in the eye (retina) caused by increased blood sugar levels cause damage to the eye and loss of vision. Early detection during an eye check-up gives patients the advantage of proper and timely treatment d) Xanthelasma People with high levels of cholesterol may develop soft, yellowish, cholesterol-filled bumps on the skin of their eyelids. Called xanthelasmas, these growths indicate a high level of cholesterol or other levels of fats in the blood. High cholesterol levels can increase your risk of a stroke and heart attack. e) Age-related macular degeneration is linked to cardiovascular risk Studies prove that patients with a specific subretinal drusenoid deposits form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are at significant risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke. Diagnoses of this by an ophthalmologist can lead to patients seeking timely treatment and evaluation from a cardiologist. 3. Steps you can take to keep both your heart and eyes healthy The connection between heart and eye health is irrefutable. From shared risk factors, and shared treatments to shared diagnosis, it is evident that the same issues that can damage blood vessels in your heart can also harm the tiny blood vessels that supply blood to your eye. In this scenario, it becomes important to take care of your heart to prevent any damage to your eyes. Here are a few steps you can take to keep both your heart and your eyes healthy: a) Stop smoking: Quitting at any age can significantly reduce your risk of a stroke and prevent damage to blood vessels including those in your eyes. b) Exercise: It is easier for a strong healthy heart to pump blood throughout the body, including the eyes. c) Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts additional stress on the heart and increases blood pressure, which can create havoc with your vision. d) Eat healthy foods: A healthy diet can prevent many heart diseases and lower cholesterol levels, aiding the prevention of related eye diseases in the process. e) Know your family history: Share any heart-related family history with your ophthalmologist or optometrist to make them extra careful and watch out for signs of heart problems during an eye exam. f) Get regular eye exams: A comprehensive annual eye exam is one of the most important steps you can take to preserve your sight and overall health. 4. Conclusion- There is more to your eyes than that which meets it The eye is the only organ in which a doctor can see the live interplay of blood vessels, nerves, and connecting tissues without resorting to any invasive procedures. Google’s AI algorithm which uses machine learning to “extract new knowledge from retinal fundus images” and predict the risk of cardiovascular events, is a major medical breakthrough in using retinal exams to determine heart health. 2.2 billion people worldwide suffer from ocular diseases, half of which can be prevented with simple lifestyle changes. For people with heart disease — the number one cause of death worldwide — early diagnosis during an eye exam, and follow-up treatment with a cardiologist, could help stave off a heart attack or stroke.

SRGR’s initiatives to meet the International Literacy Day mandate Image Captured at the National Health Fest organised by Special Olympics Bharat The Indian (Unseen)ario Blindness and vision impairment continue to be significant public health issues in India which are largely overlooked, ignored or are left untreated, as evident from the following facts: Nearly 40 million people in India, including 1.6 million children, are blind or visually impaired due to uncorrected refractive error. Recent health screening survey shows that one in every two children in Indian needs eye glasses. Despite these high numbers and high incidence of myopia amongst Indian school children, only 46% Indian kids get their eyes tested regularly. These figures are expected to be much higher for rural areas and marginalised communities, for which the burden of proper eye health is heavier due to lack of access to proper information and resources. Coupled with the low number of optometrists in lesser privileged areas, the need for screening and testing children belonging to marginalised communities is much higher. Joining hands for a cause Image captured at our first eye camp in Krishnagiri To tackle the inequity in eye health in India, SRGR has involved itself in various philanthropic activities in collaboration with Essilor Vision Foundation. We combined the power behind our brand name and their experience as an NGO to maximise our reach to the lesser privileged sections of society with a goal to improve the quality of their lives through better eyesight. Some of the joint initiatives undertaken by us are: As a team we donated 103 prescription eyeglasses to those affected or infected with HIV and their caregivers at Arcod NGO in Krishnagiri. At Sajjan Rao Charitable School we provided complete eye screening for students from the ages of 6 years upwards and a preliminary eye screening for children from the age of 3 to 5 years. A total of 378 students were screened out of which 20 students required vision correction. After the completion of eye screening, the children were provided with free spectacles customised to match their prescription. Demonstrations were held for children to educate them on how to use the spectacles along with sensitisation programs for teachers to help them recognise the symptoms of a child struggling with visual problems. We set up a free eye screening for differently-abled children in Cubbon Park in 2019 where we conducted eye screening for around 600 + children and donated 60 pairs of glasses. We were honoured to be associated with the Special Olympics Bharat 2022; a Charitable Trust which leverages sports as a medium to bring transformative changes to the lives of children and adults with intellectual and physical impairments. As the Eye Care Partners for National Health Fest on the occasion of Amrit Mahotsav to commemorate the completion of 75 years of India, we conducted eye examinations for athletes and donated nearly 7500 pairs of sunglasses and several prescription eyeglasses. The intricate link between vision and education International Literacy Day and S.R.Gopal Rao Opticians The importance of education in an individual’s daily life and in the betterment of society cannot be emphasised enough and has been acknowledged at both international & national level. International Literacy Day has been celebrated since 1967 to remind the international community of the importance of literacy for individuals, communities, and societies, as well as the necessity for increased efforts toward a more literate society. The Indian constitution has put in place the comprehensive Right to Education Act which deems education as a fundamental right. Despite these reassurances, literacy issues persist, with about 773 million individuals globally lacking fundamental literacy abilities. The ability to see properly is crucial for everyone, and it is especially true for children given that 80% of a child’s curriculum is taught visually. Children with poor vision are at major disadvantage at school. Studies in students in developing countries show the link between poor vision, vision impairment and poor academic performance. Research shows that uncorrected vision may present a significant barrier to educational mobility in poor communities in low- and middle-income countries. Hence it is only logical to conclude that good vision is essential for a child’s academic success, socio-economic development, confidence building, and overall well-being. Given the intricate link between education and vision, this International Literacy Day, we at SRGR and Essilor Vision Foundation are firm in our resolution to ensure that poor vision, eye-related issues and lack of proper eye care is not a hindrance to literacy for children belonging to underserved & marginalised communities. We can and we will SRGR recognises that access to eye care is essential for achieving an equitable and inclusive society and has a positive impact on school enrolment, educational attainment and learning amongst children. We strongly believe that providing access to eye health can boost productivity and bring down levels of illiteracy more than any other health intervention. Recognising the role of good vision in a child’s educational journey & wholistic development, and the unparalleled gains to the Indian economy from quality eye health, we at S.R.Gopal Rao Opticians are wholeheartedly committed to this cause.

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

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.

"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.

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!