Created in Canva
Rotary Club of Cochin Uptownuptown pulseTOGETHER WE SERVETOGETHER WE GROWTOGETHER WE INSPIREROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWNRotaryIssue No. 1, July - Aug 2026 Club President: Rtn. Vishnu C.Pillai. Editorial team: Rtn. Alice Joshy & Rtn. Veena Bejoy •Installation Ceremony Highlights • President’s Address • Service Projects Update
Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.Dear Fellow Rotarians and Friends, It is a privilege to welcome you to Uptown Pulse, the bimonthly newsletter of Rotary Cochin Uptown. More than a newsletter, I hope Uptown Pulse reflects our journey—our ideas, friendships, achievements, and the lives we touch through service. What makes Uptown truly special is the spirit of its members—the willingness to come together, contribute, and make a difference. Every initiative we undertake carries a part of this collective spirit. As we begin this Rotary year, let us continue to serve with purpose, lead with compassion, and celebrate the joy of being together. May every edition of Uptown Pulse bring you a story that inspires, a moment that makes you smile, and a reason to feel proud of being part of our Uptown family. With warm regards, Rtn. Vishnu C. Pillai President Rotary Cochin UptownRotaryPresidentialLETTERDear Rotarians and Friends,ROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWNTogether, We Create the Difference
EDITORIALFrom the Editor’s Desk Welcome to Uptown Pulse—the refreshed voice of Rotary Cochin Uptown. Far beyond a newsletter, this bulletin is a celebration of our shared values, our collective impact, and the unbreakable bonds that unite us as one Rotary family. As we begin this new chapter, we honor the members who laid our foundation. We fondly remember those no longer with us and those who have moved on; their fellowship, dedication, and service remain forever woven into the fabric of our club. Rotary’s true essence is measured not just by completed projects, but by the lives we touch and the relationships we nurture. We are a family made whole by our Anns, whose unwavering support adds warmth to our service, our Annettes, who bring hope for the future, and our remarkable women leaders, whose empathy and drive continue to spark meaningful change. May Uptown Pulse serve as a living chronicle of our service and fellowship— connecting hearts, celebrating memories, and inspiring us to serve together with renewed purpose and lasting impact.Hence,We coined our tagline as “High Impact ,shared Vision” Rtn. Veena Bejoy Co-EditorROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWN
SECRETARY ADDRESSRtn. Jagdeep MuraliSecretary Rotary Club of Cochin UptownIt gives me immense pleasure to welcome you to the first edition of “Uptown Pulse,” the official bulletin of the Rotary Club of Cochin Uptown. As we begin this new chapter, Uptown Pulse aims to capture the spirit, activities, achievements and fellowship that make our club special. It will be a platform to keep every Uptowner connected, informed and inspired. The past few weeks have been filled with meaningful initiatives, community service projects and opportunities to strengthen our bonds as Rotarians. As Secretary, I am grateful for the enthusiasm, support and active participation of each member. I sincerely hope this bulletin becomes a regular reflection of our journey together—celebrating our successes, sharing our stories and inspiring us to do more for the community. Let us continue to Serve to Change Lives, with greater commitment, friendship and purpose.ROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWN
BOARDDIRECTORSOFPublic ImageRtn Jose K.VClub AdministrationRtn H.BejoyMembership chairRtn . Rajesh E.SService ProjectRtn. Rajeev MenonTRF ChairRtn . Santhosh PaulChair Dist. Priorities Rtn. Anil AbbasVocational ServiceRtn. Sunil PaulSergeant at armsRtn Agil JoseTreasurerRtn. Ramkumar RamanPresidentSecretaryRtn. Jagdeep MuraliRtn. Vishnu C PillaiPresident ElectRtn. Manoj V.PImmediate past presidentRtn . VargheseROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWN
ROTARY COCHIN UPTOWN WELCOMES NEW LEADERSHIP FOR 2026-2027In a vibrant ceremony held on July 4 at the Holiday Inn, Kochi, Rotary Cochin Uptown officially installed its leadership team for the 2026- 2027 Rotary year. President: Rtn. Vishnu C. Pillai Secretary: Rtn. JagdeepChief Guest: Honorable Mayor of Cochin, Adv. M. Minimol Guest of Honour: Renowned film actor, Mr. NadirshaAttendees: Distinguished District officials of RI dist. 3205, Esteemed Rotarians, Anns, Annettes, and honored guests.The memorable evening set a inspired tone for the year ahead, reaffirming the club's commitment to impactful community service, lasting fellowship and dynamic leadership. KEY LEADERSHIP APPOINTMENTSDISTINGUISHED GUESTS & DIGNITARIESROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWN
ROTOVISION 5TH EDITIONONE VISION | UNITED ACTION | ENDLESS IMPACTVISIONROTOOn Friendship Day, August 2nd, Rotary Cochin Uptown presented the 5th edition of its flagship event, Rotovision —a TSD Rally redefining motorsport by pairing visually impaired navigators with sighted drivers. Steering clear of traditional pace notes, Visually challenged Navigators mastered Braille road books, speedcharts, and timecards to dictate exact speeds and times, proving that precision and deep trust drive victory. .Event Chair Rtn. Anil AbbasROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWN PRECISION, TRUST, AND INCLUSIONINAUGURATION & FLAG-OFF DIGNITARIESVALEDICTORY GUESTSCHAMPIONS PODIUMShri. Vivek Vasudevan Nay (Superintendent, Customs Commissionerate)Shri. Biju Issac (RTO Enforcement)Rtn. Joshy Chacko (District Governor, RI Dist 3205)Shri Deepak Joy (Tripunithura MLA)Master Rian Priyesh (Guest of Honour)Shri. Vishakh Balachandan (INRC Champion)Rotarian Class team: Driver Rtn. Eipe Kovoor | Co-Drivers Nirmal Puthan & VC Navigator Ms. Gria ChandradasLadies Class team: Driver Ms Joann Cebil | Co-Drivers Mrita Amita & VC Navigator Ms. Vijayakumari K.General Class team: Driver Mr. Aakash Rajesh | Co-Drivers Ms Aadra Rajesh & VC Navigator M. Sunitha kumari
O N E N A T I O NO N E S P I R I TO N E F U T U R EGolden Tower Residents Association, Vazhakkala A new association was marked with Independence Day celebrations at Golden Tower, Vazhakkala, with Mr. Joy Alukkas as Chief Guest. The programme included flag hoisting, breakfast, and an awareness session on “War Against Drugs” led by Mr. Prabhan, Superintendent of Ernakulam District Jail. Mr. Joy Alukkas and members joined the Toofan Warriors, reaffirming our collective commitment to a safer, drug-free society.PC CROSS ROAD CELEBRATION PC Cross Road Residents Association Rotary Cochin Uptown continued its cherished association with the PC Cross Road Residents Association, which began in 2015. The celebrations included flag hoisting and distribution of sweets, along with vegetable saplings for the residents—a simple gesture encouraging greener and healthier communities.INDEPENDENCE DAYC E L E B R A T I O N SGREEN TOWER APARTMENT CELEBRATIONF R E E D O MU N I T YR E S P O N S I B I L I T YRtn . Santhosh PaulROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWN
COMMUNITYServices2. CARE & COMPASSIONBLOOD DONATION CAMPRotary Cochin Uptown members visited *Nanma Dialysis Centre, Peringala*, a charitable institution providing free dialysis treatment for economically weaker kidney patients. During the visit, the Rotary team understood the functioning and service activities of the centre, and handed over *dialysis equipment, tubing sets, and dialysis needles* to support the ongoing treatment of patients.The centre has already completed *1,721 dialysis sessions*, bringing significant relief to many deserving patients in the region.The programme was attended by *Nanma Dialysis Centre Chairman Abdul Rasheed Bakavi* and board members. Rotary Cochin Uptown was represented by *President Rtn. Vishnu C. Pillai*, *Secretary Rtn. Jagdeep Murali*, and other club members.This initiative reflects Rotary Cochin Uptown's continued commitment to healthcare, compassion, and community service.DIALYSIS KIT DISTRIBUTIONROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWNMARRIAGE SUPPORT Supporting underprivileged families by helping them build a happy beginning.A NEW BEGINNING At the request of the Hon’ble Mayor and the Corporation, Rotary Cochin Uptown was honoured to support the wedding of a young woman raised at Mahila Mandiram. Contributing towards the wedding expenses, our members, Anns, and families came together to make her special day beautiful, dignified, and memorable—celebrating a new beginning with love, hope, and happiness. BLOOD DONATION Saving lives by voluntarily donating blood and spreading awareness. DIALYSIS SUPPORTExtending a helping hand to patients undergoing dialysis treatment. As part of its commitment to community service, Rotary Cochin Uptown participated in a Blood Donation Camp organised in association with the ICAI Ernakulam Branch (SIRC) and Rotary Cochin Central, marking the 78th Chartered Accountants Day on 1st July 2026.Held at ICAI Bhawan, Ernakulam, the initiative brought together professionals and volunteers to support the community’s healthcare needs through voluntary blood donation.Rotary members participated with enthusiasm, reaffirming the spirit of “Service Above Self” and highlighting the importance of compassion, social responsibility, and collective action. ROTARY COCHIN UPTOWN SUPPORTS NANMA DIALYSIS CENTRE, PERINGALA
M E E T T H EPROFESSIONALSK N O W L E D G EE X P E R I E N C EI N S P I R A T I O NT H E C O N T E N TO N E N A T I O NO N E S P I R I TO N E F U T U R EWalls Years of Protection Let Colors Inspire Positive LivingChoosing the Right ColoursWhen selecting colours for your home's interiors, it is advisable to choose soft pastel shades rather than dark colours. Pastel shades create a calm, pleasant, and visually spacious environment. If you are particularly fond of dark colours, consider using them on a feature wall while complementing the remaining walls with matching pastel shades. Another excellent option is to use textured finishes on a single wall to add character and elegance to the room. Dark colours, when extensively used indoors, may contribute to visual fatigue, especially during activities such as reading at night. Light colours reflect natural and artificial light more effectively, making rooms appear brighter, larger, and more comfortable. Exterior painting is not merely about aesthetics; it plays a vital role in protecting your home from harsh weather conditions and moisture-related damage. For exterior walls, it is recommended to begin with a high-quality waterproof primer followed by two coats of plastic emulsion paint. Today, the market offers exterior paint systems with warranties ranging from 5 to 10 years, allowing homeowners to choose products that suit both their requirements and budget. One important aspect that homeowners often overlook is product compatibility. Whenever possible, use the complete painting system from a single manufacturer. For example, if you choose a particular brand's wall putty, it is advisable to use the same brand's primer and emulsion paint. Mixing products from different manufacturers may affect the overall performance of the paint system and, in some cases, may also impact the manufacturer's warranty. Using a complete system from one brand generally ensures better adhesion, performance, and long-term durability.Give Your Walls Years of Protection; Let Colors Inspire Positive Living The beauty of a home is reflected not only in its design but also in the colors that surround us and the protection we provide to its surfaces. Colors have the power to influence our mood, create positive emotions, and transform a house into a warm and welcoming home. Painting, therefore, is much more than applying color—it is an investment in the beauty, durability, and comfort of your home. Proper surface preparation is the foundation of a beautiful and long-lasting paint finish. Applying wall putty helps fill minor pores and imperfections, resulting in a smoother surface. This not only enhances the final appearance of the paint but also improves the coverage of the emulsion finish, making it more elegant and durable. Special attention should be given to walls adjacent to bathrooms and other moisture-prone areas. Using waterproof wall putty in such locations can significantly reduce the chances of dampness and water-related damage. After the putty application, a good quality waterproof primer should be applied. A quality primer improves paint adhesion, enhances durability, and protects the walls from moisture infiltration. When selecting paints for your interiors, always choose paints specifically designed for interior applications. A common misconception is that exterior paints last longer and can therefore be used indoors. However, exterior paints often contain higher levels of chemicals that are not ideal for enclosed or air- conditioned environments. Avoid selecting paint solely based on price. Low-cost products from lesser-known manufacturers may contain higher levels of lead or other harmful substances. Always opt for products from reputable manufacturers. When purchasing paint, regardless of the brand, choose Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paints whenever possible. Low VOC paints are safer for your health and more environmentally friendly.Interior PaintingExterior PaintingROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWN
M E E T T H EPROFESSIONALSK N O W L E D G EE X P E R I E N C EI N S P I R A T I O NT H E C O N T E N TO N E N A T I O NO N E S P I R I TO N E F U T U R EA beautiful home is not created by colours alone. It is the result of proper surface preparation, the use of quality materials, and thoughtful product selection. Whether it is your interiors, exteriors, or terrace, investing in the right paint and waterproofing systems will ensure years of beauty, comfort, and protection. The right colours can uplift your mood, while the right painting system can preserve your home for generations to come. With thanks and Regards Rtn. Sumesh M Rtn. Deepthi SumeshWaterproofing the terrace is one of the most important aspects of home maintenance. Proper terrace waterproofing protects the structure from water seepage during the monsoon and contributes significantly to the longevity of the building. Today, several heat-reflective roof coatings are available in the market that claim to reduce surface temperatures by as much as 5°C. The principle behind these coatings is simple—light-coloured and reflective surfaces absorb less heat from sunlight, thereby helping to maintain a cooler indoor environment. This is the same reason why white cement has traditionally been used on terraces in many parts of India. White surfaces reflect sunlight more effectively than darker ones. However, white cement offers limited waterproofing capabilities. Modern waterproofing solutions provide both heat-reflective and water-resistant properties. Products such as cool roof coatings, polyurethane (PU) roof coatings, and various waterproof heat- reflective coatings available in the market offer superior performance and durability. When selecting terrace protection systems, homeowners should consider waterproofing performance, heat resistance, and the expected lifespan of the product.ROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWN Terrace Protection and Heat Reduction Conclusion Rtn. Sumesh MRtn. Deepthi Sumesh
Rtn. Molly SanthoshChoose nutritious foods that fuel your body.EAT WELLROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWNPeace of mind brings happiness to life. WELLNESS ON A PLATEBE WELL A Wholesome Plate for Healthy Living A healthy meal doesn’t have to be complicated. This simple, colourful plate brings together protein, fresh vegetables, fruits and healthy fats—perfect for busy days and family meals. Today’s Healthy Plate * 150 g chicken breast * 1 double-yolk egg * ½ slice whole wheat bread * ½ slice cheese * ½ cup cherupayar (green gram) sprouts * Capsicum – red, yellow and green * Carrot, tomato and cucumber * Apple and avocado * 100 ml curd Why It’s Good Packed with protein, fibre, vitamins, antioxidants and healthy fats, this wholesome meal supports energy, digestion, muscle health and overall well-being. Molly’s Wellness Note Health is not about eating less; it is about eating right. Choose fresh, colourful and nourishing foods. Small healthy choices every day can lead to a healthier and happier life.ROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWN Easy Preparation Lightly grill the chicken with a little salt and pepper. Boil and slice the egg. Chop the vegetables and fruits. Mix the sprouts, vegetables, apple and avocado in a bowl. Arrange the chicken and egg on top and serve with curd and lightly toasted bread with cheese.
STRONG BODYSTRONG MINDSTRONGER YOURotaryPush your limits and grow stronger every day.Discipline and focus today shape a better tomorrow.A healthy body leads to a happy and fulfilling life.STAY STRONGSTAY FOCUSEDSTAY HEALTHYDumbbell Biceps Curl The dumbbell biceps curl is one of the most effective isolation exercises for building strength and size in the biceps brachii. To perform the exercise correctly, stand upright with a dumbbell in each hand and your arms fully extended by your sides. Keep your elbows close to your torso and your palms facing forward. Slowly curl the dumbbells upward by bending only at the elbows until the weights reach shoulder level. Squeeze your biceps at the top of the movement for a second before lowering the dumbbells back to the starting position in a slow and controlled manner. The benefits of this exercise include increasing arm strength, improving grip endurance, and enhancing muscle definition. For the best results, perform 3–4 sets of 10–12 repetitions while maintaining proper form throughout the exercise.ROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWN Rtne. Anitta Saju WELLNESS IN MOTION
Creativityin bloomROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWNBloom Softly. Shine Effortlessly. Pure white linen, delicate hand embroidery, and timeless craftsmanship come together in a design that speaks without saying a word. Because true style lies in the details—not the noise. Designed by Rtn. Teena AgilRtn. Teena Agil “Small Hands. Powerful Choices. A Strong Stand Against Drugs.”
GAMES ON. MEMORIES ON.P L A Y P E R F O R M I N S P I R EPush your limits every day.Discipline today, success tomorrow.Teamwork makes dreams work.STAY ACTIVESTAY FOCUSEDSTAY TOGETHER From Kumbalam to the World Cup – A Celebration of Football & Fellowship Football is more than a sport for many of us—it is a journey of childhood, dreams, friendships, and unforgettable memories. Watching the FIFA World Cup Final together with members and families of Rotary Cochin Uptown brought back memories of the muddy grounds of Kumbalam, where football was played barefoot, with makeshift goalposts and hearts full of dreams. In those days, even buying a football was an event. We collected coins, sold cashew nuts during the season, and waited eagerly to buy a single ball. When it lost air, we rushed to the nearest cycle shop to fill it with a bicycle pump. The sound of that pump was almost as thrilling as the roar of a stadium crowd. That same joy and excitement came alive during our FIFA Final viewing at the residence of Rtn. K. V. Jose. Members, spouses, and children gathered together, turning the evening into much more than a match screening. It was a celebration of friendship and fellowship. With food and refreshments shared by families, children playing, stories flowing, and cheers rising with every goal and save, the evening had the warmth of a family reunion. For a few hours, age and generations disappeared, united by the simple joy of football. From the little football grounds of Kumbalam to the grand spectacle of the FIFA World Cup, the emotion remains unchanged. Football teaches us teamwork, discipline, respect, and hope—the very values that also lie at the heart of Rotary. A heartfelt thank you to Rtn. K. V. Jose and family for their gracious hospitality, and to every member and family who made the evening truly memorable. Game on. Memories on. Fellowship always.ROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWNRtn. Rajeev Menon
FUNFamilyFELLOWSHIP&Stronger Together, Happier ForeverROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWN
Team SpiritRelax & ConnectRotary TogetherFun Over FoodFUNFamilyFELLOWSHIP&Stronger Together, Happier ForeverInspiring WordsSmiles All AroundHappy HeartsMemories made together last a lifetime.Memories ForeverROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWN
“THOUGHTS TO CARRY FORWARD”ROTARY CLUB OF COCHIN UPTOWNRotaryThe Four Way Testof the things we think, say and do1. Is it the TRUTH?2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned? "As members of Rotary, we share a vision of a better future... Change is only the beginning. Impact is what endures."Olayinka Hakeem BabalolaPresident-Rotary International2026 - 2027 PLIFTING EOPLE HROUGH UTREACH ELFARE & EIGHBOURHOODS U P T O W N High Impact. Shared Vision.