Just Me and the Audience

This Delhi Hunk has not just been lucky, he has poured in a whole lotta efforts to make his way in Bollywood. Bhuvan Arora, an entrant in B’town has worked in movies like Shudh Desi Romance, NaamShabana, Tevar, Bank Chor, and many more, he owes it to his stringent training in FTII that taught him the nuances of the art. Though acting came innate, he shared with TIS an excerpt from childhood days from where his shy-guy attitude changed and he started enjoying the attention he got from girls for reading out the thought of the day in morning assemblies. I have always loved that attention and that was from where I entered my school’s theatre, later performing in every NukkadNatak in Delhi. It was so much fun. A friend of mine suggested I join FTII. Luckily, I got through and sadly, he didn’t. FTII was altogether a different world; a microcosm in itself where I got a chance to polish my skills under the guidance of renowned actors like Naseer Sir, Kamal Hassan, Om Puri, Saurabh Shukla. In the process, I learned that if an actor waits to be lauded then he probably is placing his joy of acting in the hands of the audience. Now I am away from that trivial craving. Now I have shifted the focal point on my acting without brooding over the success. It was FTII from where I packed my dreams in my backpack and landed in the city of dreams -Mumbai. My first audition for Jab Tak Hai Jaan went pretty well and received appreciation. However, I didn’t get a chance to work in the movie. I was steely determined and continued with auditions. Then I got a call from Shanoo Sharma and she told me that Maneesh Sir wants to meet me for another movie, Shudh Desi Romance. Sir was generous enough to ask me about my expectations and I clearly told that as long as my talent is not compromised, I am ready to work. He promised me an evident role and I gladly grabbed the opportunity and this is how my acting sojourn began. One after the other movie happened and I kept striving to better myself with each role I played. There are few projects in the pipe line, just a matter of time and you would get to see me soon. We all struggle but I didn’t create a story out of it as I believe not to carry it in the head. After all, one needs ample space for humor too. Yes, I wish to spread happiness with my performance and humor of course! And, I want to add that if you stay honest and committed to your basic values; your conviction, confidence, and purpose would definitely lead you to a bright future Rapid Fire Describe yourself in 3 words. Odd One Out What compliment do people give you the most? I have a good sense of humor. What advice did you get that was the most rewarding? Never doubt yourself. Your Favorite Co-star Riteish Deshmukh. With him work never looks like work, he is so damn hilarious. A gem of a person and I love the kind of humility his graceful wife Genelia personifies. They both make a beautiful couple. What is the last thing you liked on social media? My girlfriend’s picture, it is a ritual y’know. What is your favorite social media app? Instagram What is the funniest thing that has happened to you recently? A guy came to me and asked me for a picture with him. After clicking the picture he disclosed that I resemble his Jijaji (brother-in-law). I was clueless how to react and then I laughed and said, please send this picture to Didi. Describe the color yellow to somebody who is blind. Feeling of a bonfire on a cold night. What is the first thing you do when you get up in the morning? I drink a glass of ginger water and recheck the time. How long does it take you to get ready in the morning? Honestly, I spend a lot of time on a commode. My planning of the day starts from there. Any pet peeve? Pompous attitude. I don’t like that at all. One film you have seen more than five times So many actually, AndazApnaApna, Sholay One thing on your Bucket list I have been eyeing on the prestigious Oscar Award. Your favorite movie genre Comedy Strangest thing you’ve ever eaten? My friend cooked an “exotic sounding” dish with bamboo shoot which tasted atrocious. Disgusting! One quirky trait of yours? I can make animals talk. As in, if they could express in our language, how would they sound. Follow my Insta posts, you would know what I am talking about. If you could trade lives with anyone for a day who would it be and why? Daniel Day – Lewis, just to see how he prepares himself for roles. What is the one thing you own you wish you didn’t? My temper What store do you shop at the most? Grocery Shopping from Star Bazar. What is the first thing you notice about the opposite sex? I am a fitness freak. So a well-maintained body is something that I notice first. What was the last gift you gave someone? A gave a watch to my sister. Message for the readers Stop calling yourself as struggler, this perhaps is the most underrated term to address the feeling that makes you strong. We all must embrace the struggle and make it our strength. I know, it’s philosophical but it worked for me.

Igniting one’s own lamp

‘When in doubt, listen to the bray of your heart’ is how GitikkaGanjuDhar can be better explained. The Indian Statement had the privilege of interviewing her right before her big debut on the silver screen.

You’re one of the most celebrated Emcee’s in the country today, Where did your journey begin?

I wanted to work in film industry, as a creative hand, as an actor. I often thought of trying my hand at interior decoration, being a Chef, being a dancer, I think for a few years I wanted to join politics too. I was a regular at debating in school and college, was lucky to bring home a medal or two, but in my mind, public speaking was not even an option as a career. As a child, I was painfully shy and lacking confidence. I was also a rebel without a cause and dreamy to a fault. Day dreaming was my favourite pastime. Mine is a classic case of destiny taking charge because in all the dreams I dreamt of as a child about a million things I wanted to be, I never ever dreamt of being an anchor. I still find it difficult to believe that I made it so far. The universe conspired and all that jazz! Our college, the A.K.J. Institute of Mass Communication in Delhi had these massive studios which professional producers would hire for shoots. One of them offered me a television show, to host. So actually, I started my career in talk with television. I then got a call from Magnum Nexus, a leading event management agency of the time who was handling Honda’s presence at the Auto Expo. I was auditioned and selected as one of the two main anchors of the seven day event. So, yes, technically I did not struggle. I was paid well. I decided to venture further, spent a few years mulling and musing over the decision. Meanwhile the industry started calling and work began pouring in. I had taken off before I even knew it, even before I was fully sure that this is what I wanted to do. If there ever was an accidental anchor, it is me, it is me!

You have worked with all the leading Corporate Industries in the country. Have you ever felt the effect of Glass ceiling?

No, never. Infact, for many years, I would often hear the male hosts complain that the number and kind of opportunities they got were far less and not as good as the female live hosts in India. I know I have an equal standing as a professional female host vis-a-vis my male colleagues. It has always been this way in my case. But yes, I have felt the effect of fragile male egos on the client’s side. At times I have dealt with it, with dignity and social skill; at times I have chosen not to work in such an environment.

You’ve mentioned that your daughter is your inspiration in your past interviews. Would you like to throw some light on that?

Well, inspiration to live, laugh and enjoy every moment of life, for sure. She is my daughter, but her general demeanor is very different from mine. She has played a big role in getting me to unwind and just chill, because that is how she is. Her goal, forever, is to enjoy the moment. My goals were generally, to build for the future. I am wiser now. Music and dance have made their way back into my life. I have opened up and pushed myself to make friends again. I try and enjoy the moment now. Something like what Henry David Thoreau had said – You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, and find your eternity in each moment. She has taught me that.

Do you long for Kashmir being a Kashmiri Pandit? Would you like to opine on the abrogation of Article 35A and 370?

I welcome the abrogation of Article 370. It was long overdue. I applaud the present government for the step and hope that this will be a new sunrise for the people of Kashmir who have seen nothing but strife and tragedy over the last few decades. I also hope it will pave the way for the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the valley. A homecoming long due. I condemn some sections of international media, with vested interests for painting a wrong picture. Most of us Kashmiri Pandits long to have homes in Kashmir. It is a very beautiful, ethereal and captivating land. And, it cannot be explained in words, many Kashmiris would feel it, a whiff of the scent of the air and you know you are home. This is where your soul came from; this is where it will want to go back to.

You have signed a movie with Aamir Khan Productions. What was the driving force behind you choosing to take up acting?

I have had the good fortune of signing on as a part of the cast in Aamir Khan Production’s Lal Singh Chaddha and am delighted to work with the man himself, someone I consider a school on filmmaking, Aamir Khan. Just like with anchoring, I did not plan my foray into acting. It just happened. I always wanted to act, to be an actor on big screen. But, my career as a Live Host has been all-engrossing and very rewarding for so many years that I never felt anything amiss. Vis-a-vis acting, it is time to learn, absorb and flow. I want to enjoy this new journey like a child in wonderland.

Your Saree Fridays are a hit out there. What do you love the most about Saree as an attire?

Thank you, yes, my Saree Soirees posts do move well. The fact that it hides me well!!! Jokes apart, our colors, our patterns, our textures, our craft, our drapes are the most beautiful. Every woman looks good in a saree, and I certainly got it easy. My mother often says to me – When you need to look your best, just wear a saree. Let me add to that, when in doubt also, I wear a saree. I have too many in my closet. Many that I have inherited from my mother and grandmothers, many that I am saving for my daughter. And yes, it is a dream to travel and explore the saree route in India, later some time in life, maybe even film a series on it.

You are an avid reader. Please share with our readers some of your favorite reads.

Right now I am in the middle of reading all of SudhaMurty’s books written for children. The sheer simplicity of her thought bowls me over.

What is the one thing you would like to tell the young girls out there, who have been trying to accomplish their goals?

Work hard and do not let anyone tell you that you cannot do it. Follow your inner voice. Be a good human. Be kind. Stay humble. Have a higher purpose. And don’t forget to live life along the way.

From Being Punya to becoming Miss Lizzi

“It’s harder to make people laugh than it is to make them cry,” as the saying goes, every comedian no matter whatsoever big or small, gives off his/her best. Comedians, though not visible to all, form an integral part in each and every one’s lives− for the fact that a day without laughter is a day wasted. We had the honor of interviewing Punya Arora, one of the funniest comedians in India. With about 2 million views on her YouTube video, ‘PurushkaSparm,’ her solo show, ‘Meri Maa Ki,’ and her regular Instagram comedy sessions as ‘Miss Lizzie,’ she is an avant-garde act in the comedy industry. ‘Meri Maa Ki’ is a solo show where Punya Arora comically delivers jokes about her single mother, these jokes act as more than just funny sentences as they throw a light on what prejudices and struggles Punya’s mom went through as a single mother. Her regular comedy segments as ‘Miss Lizzie,’ have been keeping us all entertained, especially at the crucial time of coronavirus lockdown. Though many know her through her comedy skills, she has a lot of talents to display. She has been a professional photographer and a freelancer too. Ever since her childhood, she has been interested in doing various things like playing a piano, pottery, chocolate making, candle making, sketching and painting. She is a fitness enthusiast, one can easily find her meditating, exercising and doing hula-hoops every day. Though being a comedian must seem all jokes and fun, there is a lot of struggle which is kept under the sheets for the sake of making us all laugh. Punya had a lot of ups and downs in life. Punya has mainly been a freelancer and just like almost every freelancer, she too struggled with payments. She had to struggle for getting the money she’d earned with hard work, and stay attentive towards avoiding people who want to pay with ‘exposure’. Most of us idolize the artists we preach, and it’s the best we can do for an artist, but we must understand that artists too, are humans like us. They bleed when they fall too and there can be times when they feel down. Punya feels blessed on this part for having such a positive and encouraging mother who helps her put through her difficult times in life by cheering her up no matter what. Punya also states that meditation acts as a remedy for her, it makes her feel calmer and closer to her psyche. All of Punya’s jokes come from her personal life experiences. Her solo show, ‘Meri Maa Ki!!’ is a positive and interesting indicator of how the Indian audience is becoming more open and acceptable towards jokes about things other than common and ‘safe’ topics. Punya is a perfect example of how each one of us have a life worth being narrated. Punya tries her best for the audience to enjoy her shows more than they did last time and she tries to become a better version of herself as the days pass. Punya regards the proud smile on her mom’s face fills her with more delight than anything else and also makes her sure of the fact that she is going on the right track. On being asked about what Punya does when she doesn’t get the expected response from her jokes, she stated that she accepts it and moves on to her next jokes. She believes that audience appreciates honesty and she wouldn’t showcase things which are not true to her heart. Talking about her past life, Punya seems to have been the cheerful type of student in school. She loved to imitate her chemistry teacher in school and people loved her character. This inspired her to post videos on her instagram playing the character and times change, interests don’t! People have been loving and supporting her videos with the same enthusiastic fervor. Punya has a lot of things yet to achieve, and an artist like her surely deserves much more recognition. There are a lot more artists like Punya who have been struggling to mark their own identity on a wide platform like YouTube. Most of the videos we check out on YouTube just for passing our time or for the sake of entertainment are made with a lot of hard work and money, yet we barely ever appreciate their work by leaving a like, let alone commenting or being willing to pay them for their work. Punya’s message to the people reading this article and her fans is to appreciate and support every artist, no matter how big or small. Rather than just watching their videos midway and skipping them occasionally, try showing your support by buying their live-show tickets. This interview with Punya filled our hearts with delight and pleasure. We wish her a great career ahead!

Auto Raja Interview

Going through the journey called life, we have taken many things for granted. Not many of us turn towards God to thank him for what he has provided us with. Somewhere in the midst of the desire to live a comfortable life we have lost compassion and humanity in between. Not many of us consider the world a part of our own family and existence. In this world driven by self-growth, there are near to no people who live for the others. New Indian Statement Team stumbled upon this magnanimous personality, whose life touched us and inspired us throughout. We found out about the New Ark Mission of India, and the founder of the mission, Auto Raja by serendipity. We were deeply touched and inspired by his life and work, and were surprised at how many people still have no idea about the noble work done by Auto Raja. We would love you all to know the man who has given humanity a new definition. We are more than just honored,and we want you all to know his story, and also learn a lot from him through these digital pages. This Mission was established in 1997 in a rented house and later on in 1998 the Mission was registered under the trust name called NEW ARK MISSION OF INDIA with Home of Hope as its rehabilitation Centre.Until now, the Mission could rescue over 7,000 people of whom about 3,000 died here in dignity with their last wishes fulfilled. This mission aims to provide help and compassion to the destitute. Our team got an opportunity to interview this amazing personality and we have learnt a lot from him. Let us delve into the interview without wasting much time!

Your real name is Thomas Raja. How did you come to be known as Auto Raja?

I’m named after my father. His name is Thomas, so they will call me Thomas Raja. The name ‘Auto Raja’ name is given by media and television channels. I was professionally an auto driver and member ofthe auto union leader.

You grew up in a well-off family, and went to a convent school. How did you end up being in jail at the age of sixteen?

My parents sent me to a convent school named ‘Seventh Day Adventist’. Due to badcompany and bad habits, I wanted money for alcohol. For that very reason, I started to steal and rob from my house, school and other places, not in big way, but small-scale thefts. After that, I left Bangalore city, and went to Chennai because Icouldn’t get love and care from my family. Then I continued doing the same things inChennai, so I was sent to juvenile jail at the age of sixteen.

The transformation that the sixteen-year-old T. Raja had in his life; do you consider thatas a miracle? What are your thoughts on human nature and second chances? What isthe true nature of a saint?

Prison was like hell for me. I wanted to get out of the prison very soon at any cost. I meditated and prayed earnestly to God to have mercy on me. I repentedin front ofGod and asked for a second chance. “If You forgive me, I will serve you.” I would say. My parentscame miraculously and paid the fine charges in the court to rescue me. I fell at my parent’s feetand asked for forgiveness from them. I came home with my parents.

You stepped on this path alone, and with your own capable hands you have laid the bricks of the New Ark Mission. What were your thoughts when you set out on this journey by yourself?

When I started this service for this people, I felt joy, peace, and comfort. Inside me, therewas this big hope, that in the future, I will do something great for these people in need.

Your mission is named as “Home of Hope”. What is your personal feeling about the word ‘hope’? What is the weight of the word ‘hope’ for you?

Whoever enters ‘Home of Hope’, I would like to give them hope to fulfill their hunger (food),give them hope of comfort (clothes and shelter), hope ofleading a longer life.Last is thehope in me to give them dignity until death.

Most people live for themselves, and work up to fulfill their own desires and ambitions, achieving success and failing at times. How has living for others caused the difference that people cannot achieve on a regular basis?

When I live for others, it’s the most beautiful feeling for me. When I am living for others, I always feel and keep in mind that I am sacrificing everything for the needy people. I am born empty; I’ll goempty but I have a hope in me that the Almighty will give an everlasting life inheaven. When I serve the destitute, I feel that I am serving God.

The sixteen-year-old Thomas Raja who was a destitute back then, has now given shelter to more than 11,000 destitute. What would Auto Raja tell his sixteen-year-old self if he could meet him?

If I were asixteen-year-old once again, I would start with aiming to serve people in all the states of India, help more and more people and those who are in need. I would aim to create beggar less citiesand make sure that no one dies from a harsh death on streets as a destitute.

What would the sixteen-year-old T. Raja tell the children of his own age about living their lives?

I would say to the sixteen-year-old children to obey their parents, respect their parents, honoring their parents, it’s a best blessing for them.

You’ve worked for the people consistently for 20 years now. How have you maintained consistency and kept on achieving on greater magnitude with every step? What struggles did you have to face?

NAMI has been working for 24 years. My whole life has been full of struggles.

To feed 700 people every day,
Everyday having 1 or 2 dead bodies, for cremation or burial as per theirreligions,
Sometimes, if my inmates become sick or if they become seriously ill, and if amajor problem occurs for our inmates, I take them to big government hospitals. But they do not help my people as we expect them to. They will keep on referring to other hospitals and finally we come back to our home. The patients finally die in a few days. We have only one MBBS doctor and sixnurses. We are not able to manage 700 people with this much resource,
Water Crunch is another issue for us. We are buying water daily to fulfillthe daily activities of cleaning, bathing and hygiene. Everyday 40,000liters of water is required. Butonly 5000 liters is given by the panchayat,
Even we don’t have proper drainage system in our area to send thesewage and excreta to the mainstream drainage system. We have manually dug plenty of pits for cleaning and are somehow managing.

These are my struggles which I have been facing for the past 24 years.

People have prejudiced, preconceived, and stereotypical ideas about destitute. Whatwould you tell the people with resources to change their opinions and thinking about thedestitute on humanitarian grounds?

We cannot change the mindset of people. In our country, maybe there are a plenty of people like this.Their own families have pushed them to live a life of the destitute, because of being given insufficient love and care.Some people will say that they suffer because of their own ‘karmas’. but I say that this is not because of ‘karma’. This has always been generalized for the destitute. I say, whatever I do, this is a will of God and I love to do His work. Removing these generalized and biased opinions on the destitute would make a difference. Destitute are people in need, and they are alone and helpless in the world outside. Considering this as God’s will, I will help them out.

Every person has an ideal or ideals in their lives. Your compassion and field of work have made you into an ideal that people can look up to. Who are the people who have inspired you on a daily basis?

The people who inspire me on a daily basis are

Jesus Christ
Mother Teresa
Mahatma Gandhi
B. R. Ambedkar

They are my role models.

What do the words respect and dignity mean to you?

I love to respect human beings, even those who are younger than me. I will call them ‘Akka’ or ‘Anna’. I respect human beings. When we say we are giving dignity to the humanbeings, there is no comparison for it. We can price a gold or diamond orplatinum, but there is no price for a dignified life. It is priceless. Hence, being a true human is respect and dignity for me.

You were once rendered homeless by your family. After your transformation, how has your family played a role in making your vision into a success?

All over the world, people love me, they honor me.Theywill make thousands of good speeches about me, but even today my family, my blood relatives, they do not show any love and affection to me. I lost my parents without getting loveand affection from them.

On a different note, we have heard that you have varied interests. Tell us about them.

I want to build a big city for the destitute, I want to make charity hospitals. I am very interested in building destitute homes in all the states of India, I have a lot of interest in living like a true Indian in favor of our country and humanity.

What message do you have for the people of this nation, about knowing their roots and humanity? What message do you subsequently have for the world?

We should not wait for one more Mother Teresa to come to the world.We should strive to belike her.We should not wait for one more Mahatma Gandhi or one more B.R. Ambedkar.We should be like them. We should be the light for our nation and thensubsequently for the world.

You have given yourself entirely for the service of the people in pain, and a lot of people have been touched by your life. Has anyone ever made you feel that the message you have been trying to convey has reached them? Please tell us one such moment from your life, that has touched you.

One Sunday, I was ready to go to Church. When I was coming downstairs from the second floor to the ground floor, one lady came crawling to me, insidethe campus. She came up to me and shouted, “Daddy, Daddy, Stop! I want to ask you something!” and asked me for one ‘Masala Dosa’. I was in a hurry to go to theChurch as time was running short for me, but I stopped and called my Staff members to buy one Masala Dosa for her. Till the ‘Masala Dosa’ came from the market, I had forgotten about the church and I was talking to that lady. I was just talking, but, my mind, my heart and my spirit turned to that lady. I wanted to fulfill her wishes. Once the masala dosa came, I gave it to her and she had a smile on her face. She raised her hands and received it from me, with love. “Thank you, Daddy! Thank you, Daddy!” she shouted. With full joy and satisfaction, she slowly unwrapped and enjoyed her sumptuous meal. When I saw that scene, a smile on her face, satisfaction in her eyes and her happiness while she was eating, there was a particular feeling inside my heart- I had finished my prayer and worshipped there itself. There was no need to go to the Church that day, because when I fulfill these people’s last wishes, that is the real form of worshipping God. Most people before dying will either ask for

Chicken Kebabs
Masala Dosa
Pani Puri
Ice cream
Pepsi
An egg or an apple too!

They have last wishes before dying. I always want to fulfill their wishes and desires. This is the message I want to convey to them.

What is New Ark Mission’s ‘Vision 2021’?

I want to come up with a similar home in at least one of the states in India.

How can the common people help you reach out to the people in need on a larger extent? What are your future plans on a broad spectrum?

We started a new project “I beg for my people; My people should not beg”. I am begging for alms since a year for my people. It’s a minimal amount of one Rupee. More and more people arecoming forward to help the dying destitute. More than 20,000, people donate 1 rupee for us in a day. I want to enhance and expand this project in a bigger wayand I wish for at least 1,00,000 people to come forward daily.

What are some things that most people don’t know about you?

Most people will think that Auto Raja is getting funds worth crores from foreign countries,international donations, and he has a lot of money. He has become a big man. Peoplewill talk like that but the fact is, I am getting only 5-10% foreign donations;rest 90% funds are from Indians who are donating for this noble cause. I am managing with onlylocal support and leading a very simple life, and not a lavish one. I am staying on the 4th floor ofour building.It has a sheet roof, and I live along with all my people includingmy family, my wife and my three children.

What are some personal experiences that you can share with our readers about the people who are in your vicinity?

I want to welcome all the readers to our home and be a part of our family. You can come and volunteer and spend some time in serving these beautiful people. Such beautiful thoughts and outlook on life. Auto Raja has lived a worthwhile life till now, and rightfully garnered the adjective of an ‘angel’. We wish him a lot of success for his noble mission, and also urge all our readers to be a part of this beautiful journey of helping others and sustaining and installing humanity. For more details about New Ark Mission India, visit their official website: https://newarkmission.org/

How to Reinvent Yourself at Any Age – Real Stories of Transformation

How to Reinvent Yourself at Any Age: Real Stories of Brave Transformations Are you satisfied with your life? Are you even sure the life you built still fits you? Maybe it’s just a rough patch. Or maybe you feel that midlife crisis creeping in. Either way, you’re definitely not the only one. Those feelings are way more common than most people realize. Studies show that in your 40s, satisfaction often dips. The good news? It tends to rise again as you get older. Scientists call it the U-shaped happiness curve. Yes—what you’re feeling might be uncomfortable, but it could also mean you’re ready for something new. If you’ve been wondering how to reinvent yourself, we’re here for that. Doesn’t matter if you’re 42 or 67. We’ll talk about what gets in the way, show some real stories, and break down how to actually make a shift without everything falling apart.

Is It Too Late to Reinvent Yourself at Any Age?

It’s easy to feel like the window’s closed. Like whatever choices you made by 40 or 50 kind of locked you in. But that’s not really how it works for most people. Long-term studies—like the British Household Panel Survey—show that life satisfaction often increases from the 40s through the early 70s. People tend to feel more grounded, more clear-headed, even more open to change as they get older. So no, it’s not too late to reinvent yourself at any age. You’re not behind. You haven’t missed your shot. If anything, this might be the first time you’re in a place to really go after something that feels right. Can you start over at 60? Yes. People do it all the time. New careers, new goals, even completely different ways of living—none of it requires a perfect plan. Just a decision to try.

Real Stories of Reinvention After 40

Real change doesn’t just happen in self-help books. These are actual people who started over later in life—new careers, new goals, new versions of themselves. No perfect timing, no grand plan. Just the decision to try. Here’s what it looks like to reinvent yourself at any age—for real.

Claire Cook: From High School Teacher to Bestselling Author at 45

Claire Cook was 45 when she wrote her first novel—in her car, during her daughter’s swim practices. Until then, she’d worked as a high school teacher. Her second book, Must Love Dogs, became a bestseller and got turned into a movie. She didn’t have a blueprint—just a gut feeling that it was time to try something new.

Carl Allamby: From Auto Mechanic to Emergency Room Doctor at 51

Carl Allamby spent over 20 years running his own auto repair shop. He was successful, respected, and burned out. In his 40s, he decided to take a few college classes—one thing led to another, and eventually, med school. At 51, he became an ER doctor. It didn’t happen fast, but it happened—because he stopped writing himself off.

Elizabeth Barbour: From Hand Model to Family Law Attorney in Her 60s

Elizabeth Barbour started law school at 54. Before that, she’d worked as a hand model and in real estate. It wasn’t easy—she felt out of place at first—but she stuck with it. After passing the bar, she joined Legal Aid and now helps women in crisis. She’s 68, working full-time, and calls it the most fulfilling chapter of her life.

5 Tips for Reinventing Yourself Later in Life

Reinvention sounds big, but it usually starts small. A few honest questions, a couple of hard decisions, and a shift in direction—that’s enough to get moving. Here’s where to begin, no matter your age.

1. Reflect and Redefine Your Values

The life you wanted at 30 might not match what matters now. That’s normal. Sit with it. What do you care about today? What feels worth your energy? Reinvention starts by being honest about what no longer fits—and what you’re ready to prioritize instead.

2. Let Go of Past Roles or Identities

You’ve probably worn a lot of labels—parent, manager, partner, provider. Some of them served you. Some didn’t. Reinvention means stepping outside of the identity you’ve built around old expectations. You’re allowed to outgrow things, even if they once defined you.

3. Build a Flexible, Realistic Plan

You don’t need a five-year strategy or a color-coded calendar. What you do need is something doable—one or two next steps, a loose timeline, and a bit of wiggle room. Reinvention works best when you give yourself structure without locking yourself into a rigid blueprint.

4. Take One Big Action to Create Momentum

Thinking is easy. Doing is where it shifts. Sign up for the class. Send the email. Book the meeting. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be real. One action makes the whole idea feel less abstract and a lot more possible.

5. Create a Circle of Support and Feedback

Change is hard to pull off alone. You don’t need a cheer squad—but a few honest, grounded people who’ll listen without shutting you down? That helps. Find voices that encourage growth, not comfort zones. The right support can keep you moving when doubt shows up.

You’re Not Too Old—You’re Just Getting Started

Starting over doesn’t mean throwing everything away. It means choosing what to carry forward—and what to leave behind. Reinvention isn’t about chasing some perfect version of yourself. It’s about realigning with what matters now. You’re not too late. You’re not too old. If you’ve been wondering how to reinvent yourself at any age, consider this your sign to stop waiting and start moving.

What’s in this summer

GLASS SKIN, DOLPHIN SKIN, OR LATTE SKIN: WHAT’S IN THIS SUMMER? Summer’s closing in, and this time, it’s getting the brightest it can be. It’s a special season for you to feel warm, relaxed and free. The sweet scent of flowers engulfs you, and it’s the moment to flaunt the summer body you’ve been building all along. The flowers are vibrant this summer, and so should your skin; radiant, flawless and magical. You’re happy, and your skin does need some of that energy. This summer, we’re witnessing a tight draw between glass, dolphin and latte skins? Who is owning the stage this beautiful season?

GLASS SKIN

Just like that piece of glass or clean windowpane, your glass skin should look and feel crystal clear. Gotten from the K-beauty world, the obsession with glass skin has now stormed social media, making everyone desire that near-perfect skin. While working on achieving this, you’ll require a perfect balance of the right skin ingredients that work to reduce pigmentation and increase your skin’s texture. Hydration, nourishment and protection are all you need to boost your glass skin goals this summer. The necessary ingredients to achieve this include*:

Vitamin C, which is useful for hydration and brightening.
Hyaluronic Acid – for cell production and reducing the visibility of wrinkles.
Niacinamide for removing toxins and reducing inflammation.
Shea butter – for moisturizing.

Achieving a dolphin-like skin includes the following steps:

Make sure to double cleanse.
Exfoliate to get rid of dead skin cells.
Use a toner so other products absorb better.
Try an essence to retain moisture.
Use a serum or face oil.
Layer your moisturizer.
Protect your skin from the sun.

DOLPHIN SKIN

Just like actual dolphins, your dolphin skin this summer should feel smooth, sun-kissed, moisturized, and thick, giving you that almost wet-looking effect. The dolphin skin trend emphasizes a luminous, dewy glow on the skin that looks healthy and youthful. Hydration and exfoliation as well as micro toxin treatments, are steps skincare enthusiasts focus on. The dolphin skin growing in popularity lies in its natural skin glow,which is achievable for all skin types. To achieve a dolphin skin, the necessary ingredients include:

Hyaluronic Acid – for hydration.
Salicylic acid or AHA/BHA – for exfoliation.
Vitamin C – for brightening and antioxidant protection.

The necessary steps to achieving a dolphin-like skin include:

Start with a brightening cleanser
Gently exfoliate your face
Use a hydrating facial serum
Make use of a lightweight moisturizer

LATTE SKIN

Latte skin should remind you of latte coffee: creamy, soft, and earthy. It’s a skin shade that is warm, neutral, or tan, almost similar to the color of a latte. With a focus on the latte skin, the latte makeup trend aims to achieve a bronzed, warm, neutral-toned look. Latte skin is generally drier, which necessitates consistent and deep hydration. Latte skins are also prone to sunburn and hyperpigmentation because of their sensitivity, thus requiring protection with SPF 30 or higher. To achieve a dolphin skin, the necessary ingredients include:

Hyaluronic acid, which is excellent for hydration.
Niacinamide, which helps with skin tone and barrier protection.
Vitamin C for brightening and collagen production.
Lactic or glycolic acid as a gentle exfoliant for texture, removes dead skin cells, revealsa brighter complexion and reduces dark spots.

WHAT’S IN THIS SUMMER? Summer comes with warm days, hot weather, longer daylight, and increased social activity; therefore, choosing what works will largely be dependent on your skin needs, concerns, and how well it survives under consistent sunlight. This summer, the latte skin alongside the latte make-up trend seems to be driving the waves as its focus is on the warm, natural-looking glow made easy with a seamless combination of right skincare, makeup and bronzer. Just like the warmth that the sun introduces in summer, the latte skin type mirrors the warmth and natural glow that the sun gives the skin. Latte’s skin texture is also adaptable across different skin types because of its depth and natural brown hues. By customizing the depth of the makeup looks, every person can make it complement their natural skin look. Also, because of its natural glowy look, you need little to no additions to make you shine brighter. Remember it’s summer, happiness and freedom should be at the top of your mind, so whether it’s a glass skin or dolphin skin or latte skin, you should treat it with utmost care so your skin can shine just as bright as you do. Trends evolve, so what matters for beauty is that which matches your energy, vibe, and mood.