WOMEN REVEAL EXPERIENCES OF ISOLATING WITH CHILDREN
by MITA MISTRY
LOCKDOWN has been hard for everyone and especially, difficult on mothers, who have had to look after themselves, with their children.
There have been many added challenges across the past year, including home-schooling, keeping kids indoors occupied and finding time for self-care.
To mark Mother’s Day, Eastern Eye spoke to four super mums about self-isolating with their children, how they have coped, important lessons that were learned along the way and top tips they would give.
Kuldip Pabla: At first parenting in lockdown was a doddle, but after the second lockdown the cracks started to show.
My son Param aged 16 started to get really tired and agitated, and didn’t want to do anything online. It became a real struggle to get him to log on to his classes. He had lost his mojo and concentration, so every day became a battle. He has autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia and is deaf in one ear, so it was difficult not having the support he usually had in school. So, me trying to help him opened my eyes as to how much help he got from the school and I couldn’t do it. I cried myself to sleep because the stress was getting to me.
The lows of lockdown were him disturbing my meetings half naked in his boxers, where he would come right up to the screen and start saying hello to everyone, and I would be mortified. The highs of lockdown were spending more time with Param. It was nicer to have that extra time that I would otherwise be using to travel to and from work.
He’s had more time to FaceTime his sister Simran, aged 19, and talk with her as she was not working because of lockdown, and this became a regular thing for them. My advice to other parents is get as much support as possible from friends and family, and listen to your child, but don’t over stress them.
Alpa Patel: When lockdown was first introduced, I was like a deer in headlights – full time work, being a mum, teacher and wife felt just about impossible. I used to lie awake at night wondering how I will get the girls (Ishika, 11, and Sienna, 6) and myself through all of it.
It was mentally and emotionally draining. I had gone from working full-time to being at home full-time, only going out once a week to buy supplies. I put pressure on myself and the girls to do all their work. We argued constantly, which would make me feel quite useless. We got through it. I learnt to be more patient and understanding, and the girls calmed down too. They adapted to the new way of life, including talking to family and friends on Facetime and appreciating the things we did have in our life. A walk in the park became the highlight.
This last year hasn’t been easy for anyone, but my girls have taught me that I shouldn’t worry about things I can’t control and tough times don’t last, but tough people do. All I can hope for now is my girls will be okay, and one day look back at this time and say it wasn’t too bad.
Sangeeta Dewan: I am a life coach, healer and mum of two amazing boys, age 22 and 20. Lockdown was hard, with my older son in the final year of university and the younger in the first. Both came home to stay in March 2020.
Although it was nice to have them around, the toughest thing was to deal with their frustrations. Having invested two and a half years for his film production degree, the eldest felt he was robbed of his last few months with friends and disappointed his final assignment to make a film was cancelled. My youngest was anxious as he was just settling down and had to leave his friends.
In September, we had another shock as my husband was diagnosed with multi-focal brain tumours and was given less than a year to live. That broke our family, and we were in pain and didn’t know what to do.
As a mum, I wanted to help and support my children through tough times, but I was feeling helpless and sad as my husband needed my time and attention. After some time, I decided to invest my mornings in making sure I was doing meditation and connecting with mother earth, to uplift my mood so I can support my family energetically.
Dexa Kanbi: I will always remember March 23, 2020, because it was the first day of national lockdown and my son’s 11th birthday. My work as an artist was put on hold, and like millions of parents I suddenly found myself having to home school my two children Shiven and Ishaani, then aged 11 and 5. My son got on with things, but my daughter refused to do any learning at home and I began to feel like I had failed her. I thought she would get left behind because I wasn’t able to get her to learn.
Self-doubt took over and I had to be reminded that so many parents were probably feeling the exact same things. Homeschooling took a backseat. Instead, we played, went for walks and bike rides, watched movies, built wonderful things with Lego, drew, coloured and painted.
In hindsight, I don’t feel like I failed as a parent. We made wonderful new memories while the world stood still. I made sure they were happy and safe at a time filled with so much grief and uncertainty, and that was enough. When schools shut again, I dreaded home-schooling, but with more structure and support, it’s been ok.
For anyone struggling, take a step back, don’t stress, get in touch with school for assistance, and above all, enjoy being together.
Shefali Jariwala died at 42 in Mumbai after reportedly collapsing post-fast; cause of death suspected to be cardiac arrest or blood pressure drop.
Police found anti-ageing pills, vitamin supplements, and glutathione injections at her residence.
Doctors stress the risks of unsupervised use of hormone-based and anti-ageing treatments.
Final post-mortem report expected in two days; no foul play suspected, case treated as accidental death.
The untimely death of actor-model Shefali Jariwala has sparked renewed concern over the unregulated use of anti-ageing treatments and self-medication. The 42-year-old, best known for her appearance in Kaanta Laga, was declared dead on arrival at a Mumbai hospital on Friday night. Initial investigations suggest she may have suffered a cardiac arrest following a steep drop in blood pressure, possibly linked to taking supplements on an empty stomach.
Shefali Jariwala death raises concern over anti ageing drugs and self medication Instagram/shefalijariwala
What caused Shefali Jariwala’s collapse? Police and doctors investigate
Shefali Jariwala was rushed to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital by her husband and friends after she suddenly collapsed at home, but she was already unresponsive. Her family said she had been fasting for a religious ritual and had consumed her regular supplements shortly after breaking the fast. Among the substances recovered at her Andheri apartment were glutathione injections, commonly used for skin lightening, and various anti-ageing tablets.
Doctors at Cooper Hospital, where her post-mortem was conducted, suspect a fatal drop in blood pressure, though only the final autopsy will confirm the precise cause of death. So far, Mumbai Police have ruled out foul play and registered an accidental death report.
Health experts warn against unmonitored anti-ageing therapies
Experts are now urging caution over the growing trend of unsupervised beauty and anti-ageing regimens, especially among public figures. Dr Dhirendra Singhania, a leading cardiologist, pointed to steroids, hormone therapies, and poor sleep as major heart risk factors, even among seemingly fit individuals. While glutathione and vitamin C aren’t inherently dangerous, he said their misuse or interaction with other drugs can trigger complications.
Anti ageing pills found at Shefali Jariwala home spark health safety debate Instagram/shefalijariwala
Shefali had no known chronic illnesses apart from epilepsy, which doctors say is unlikely to be linked to her sudden collapse. Her death, while still under investigation, adds to growing concerns about beauty pressures, self-prescribed treatments, and the long-term risks of trying to defy ageing without medical oversight.
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Prada acknowledges Indian influence behind its Spring Summer 2026 men’s footwear
• Prada confirms Indian roots behind 2026 ‘leather sandals’ after controversy • Indian artisans and officials accused the brand of cultural appropriation • The footwear resembles traditional Kolhapuri chappals with GI status • Prada says designs are still in development and open to dialogue with India
Italian fashion label Prada has officially acknowledged that its Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection includes footwear inspired by India’s traditional Kolhapuri chappals. The statement came after mounting criticism from Indian artisans and industry leaders, who claimed the brand showcased the design at Milan Fashion Week without recognising its origins.
Prada confirms Kolhapuri chappals inspired its 2026 Milan collectionInstagram/prada
Prada responds to Kolhapuri chappal row
In a letter addressed to Lalit Gandhi, President of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA), Prada’s CSR head Lorenzo Bertelli confirmed the sandals were influenced by Indian craftsmanship. The fashion house admitted that the open-toe leather sandals presented on the Milan runway drew from the centuries-old Kolhapuri style, traditionally made by artisans in Maharashtra and Karnataka.
Kolhapuri chappals have been crafted for centuries and received GI tag in 2019 iStock
The controversy erupted after Prada described the footwear simply as “leather sandals” in its show notes, omitting any reference to India. This led to accusations of cultural appropriation and disregard for artisans' rights. BJP MP Dhananjay Mahadik also led a group of Kolhapuri chappal makers to meet Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, urging government action to protect their Geographical Indication (GI) status.
No production yet, says Prada, as India seeks fair credit
Prada clarified that the sandals shown were part of an early-stage design process and have not been confirmed for mass production. “None of the pieces are finalised or approved for commercial use,” Bertelli wrote.
MACCIA, in its communication, called for proper acknowledgement and possible collaboration or compensation for Indian artisans. The organisation stressed that Kolhapuri chappals are not just heritage products but also vital to the livelihoods of thousands of families.
In response, Bertelli assured Prada’s commitment to ethical design, cultural respect, and further engagement with Indian artisan communities. He also welcomed the opportunity for open dialogue on potential partnerships.
The Kolhapuri chappal, awarded GI status in 2019, is a symbol of regional identity and craftsmanship. As global fashion continues to borrow from traditional cultures, this case may set the tone for how brands address ownership, recognition, and respect.
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Wintour’s style of leadership earned her the nickname “Nuclear Wintour”
Anna Wintour steps down as editor of US Vogue after 37 years
She will remain Vogue’s global editorial director and hold senior roles at Condé Nast
Wintour transformed US Vogue into a global fashion authority
The 75-year-old has received numerous honours, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom
End of an era at US Vogue
Anna Wintour has stepped down as the editor of US Vogue, bringing to a close a 37-year tenure that redefined the publication and saw her become one of the most influential figures in global fashion.
The announcement was made on Thursday (26 June) during a staff meeting in New York. Wintour, 75, will no longer oversee the day-to-day editorial operations of Vogue’s US edition. However, she will continue to serve as Vogue’s global editorial director and Condé Nast’s chief content officer, maintaining senior leadership roles across the company.
A transformative legacy
Wintour took the helm of US Vogue in 1988, inheriting a relatively conservative magazine. She swiftly transformed it into a trendsetting, authoritative voice in fashion. Under her leadership, the publication became known for its iconic covers, high-end photography, and ability to shape careers in the fashion industry.
With extensive budgets and strong advertising support, Vogue became a global fashion flagship, influencing designers, celebrities, and brands worldwide.
Wintour’s style of leadership earned her the nickname “Nuclear Wintour” for her decisiveness, with some reports noting her tendency to make bold editorial decisions without extensive discussion. Her distinctive bob haircut and ever-present sunglasses made her a recognisable front-row figure at fashion weeks around the world.
Beyond the magazine
The British-born editor rose to wider public fame as the inspiration behind the character Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada — both the 2003 novel and the 2006 film adaptation. While Wintour rarely commented on the portrayal, she acknowledged the attention it brought, most recently during the launch of a stage musical adaptation in London in 2024.
She told the BBC, “They [my sunglasses] help me see and they help me not see. They help me be seen and not be seen. They are a prop, I would say.”
Wintour also became synonymous with the Met Gala, the annual high-profile charity event in New York City, which she has organised for years, drawing celebrities from fashion, film, politics, and sport.
Recognition and future plans
Wintour has received numerous accolades during her career. She was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2017 and became a Companion of Honour in February 2025. During the ceremony in London, she removed her sunglasses to receive the award and told King Charles III that she had no intention of retiring.
Wintour also became synonymous with the Met GalaGetty Images
In the United States, President Joe Biden awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom earlier this year before leaving office.
Despite stepping back from US Vogue, Wintour will continue to oversee several major Condé Nast titles including Wired, Vanity Fair, GQ, Condé Nast Traveler, and Glamour, as part of her global leadership responsibilities.
In her remarks to staff, she described the decision as “pivotal” but confirmed she would not be leaving the company or her office. “I’ll be turning all my attention to global leadership and working with our team of brilliant editors around the world,” she said.
Almost 400 reports of acute pancreatitis linked to weight loss and diabetes jabs have been filed in the UK
Most cases involve popular GLP-1 drugs including Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro
Health officials are investigating possible genetic causes behind the side-effects
Patients hospitalised with pancreatitis encouraged to report symptoms via MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme
Adverse drug reactions cost the NHS an estimated £2.2bn annually
Health watchdog investigates spike in serious side-effects from GLP-1 drugs
UK health authorities have launched a study into the side effects of popular weight loss and diabetes drugs following a spike in reported cases of acute pancreatitis. Nearly 400 reports have been received via the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA) Yellow Card scheme, which monitors side effects and adverse reactions related to medicines and medical devices.
The medicines involved are GLP-1 receptor agonists – including semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy), liraglutide, and tirzepatide (branded as Mounjaro). The Yellow Card data shows that 181 of the cases involved tirzepatide alone.
What is acute pancreatitis?
Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas, the gland located behind the stomach that helps with digestion. Symptoms typically include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and fever, and the condition often requires hospital treatment. In rare cases, it can be fatal.
Though pancreatitis is listed as an “uncommon” side-effect of GLP-1 medications in patient information leaflets – meaning it may affect around one in 100 people – the MHRA has seen a notable rise in reported incidents, particularly in 2025.
Since the start of the year, there have been 22 reports involving semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and 101 involving tirzepatide (Mounjaro).
Study launched to explore potential genetic link
To understand the possible causes of these side effects, particularly in light of rising usage of these medications, the MHRA is inviting affected patients to take part in a research study through the Yellow Card Biobank. The initiative, run by Genomics England, will collect saliva samples and other data to explore any genetic factors that may be influencing patient response to GLP-1 drugs.
An MHRA spokesperson stated: “Alongside increased usage, we are seeing an upturn in the number of Yellow Card reports mentioning GLP-1 medicines and acute pancreatitis.”
While no known genetic link has yet been established, the MHRA said genetic variations could help explain why some patients experience adverse reactions to certain medications. The agency is urging both patients and health professionals to report suspected side-effects related to these drugs.
Adverse reactions place burden on NHS
Research shows that one in six hospital admissions is caused by an adverse drug reaction, and around a third of those could potentially be avoided through genetic testing. The financial cost is also significant – the NHS spends over £2.2 billion each year on hospital stays linked to adverse reactions alone.
Dr Alison Cave, chief safety officer at the MHRA, highlighted the need for more personalised approaches to medicine: “Evidence shows that almost a third of side-effects to medicines could be prevented with the introduction of genetic testing.”
Manufacturers respond to rising concerns
In response to the reports, drugmakers Lilly and Novo Nordisk reiterated their commitment to patient safety and advised that side effects should always be reported and discussed with healthcare professionals.
A spokesperson for Lilly, which manufactures Mounjaro, said: “Patient safety is Lilly’s top priority. We take reports seriously and actively monitor, evaluate and report safety information for all our medicines.”
The Mounjaro leaflet identifies acute pancreatitis as an uncommon side-effect, advising patients to consult their doctor before using the drug if they have a history of the condition.
Novo Nordisk UK, which produces Ozempic and Wegovy, issued a similar statement: “Patient safety is of the utmost importance to Novo Nordisk… The known risks and benefits of GLP-1 medicines are described in the product information. We recommend that patients take these medications only for their approved indications and under the strict supervision of a healthcare professional.”
Both companies said they were continuously collecting safety data and working with authorities to ensure ongoing monitoring and understanding of their treatments.
What should patients do?
Health officials are encouraging patients who have experienced severe symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, or fever after taking these medications to report their experiences to the Yellow Card scheme. Hospitalised individuals may be contacted to participate in the Biobank study.
While the overall safety profile of GLP-1 medicines remains positive, the MHRA has stressed the importance of vigilance as demand for these weight loss and diabetes drugs continues to grow.
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M&S’s latest offering taps into both tradition and innovation
M&S unveils limited edition strawberries and cream sandwich for £2.80
Inspired by Japanese 'sweet sandos', it features Red Diamond strawberries and whipped cream cheese
Available in stores now, found in the savoury sandwich aisle
Launch coincides with Wimbledon and British strawberry season
Wimbledon increases strawberries and cream price for first time in 15 years
New summer sandwich from M&S
Marks & Spencer has launched a limited edition M&S strawberry sandwich, combining classic British summer flavours with a Japanese twist. Priced at £2.80, the strawberries and cream sandwich is available in M&S stores now.
The dessert-style sandwich features M&S’s exclusive Red Diamond strawberries, whipped cream cheese, and sweetened bread. Despite its sweet contents, the product is found in the savoury sandwich section of M&S Food halls.
M&S said the creation is inspired by Japan’s ‘sweet sandos’ a popular type of fruit sandwich made with fluffy bread and luxury fruit, often seen in trendy Japanese patisseries.
A nod to Japanese tradition
Fruit sandwiches in Japan date back to the early 20th century when fruit shops began opening cafés near train stations and business districts. These cafés offered dishes that featured premium fruit at accessible prices, including parfaits, shortcakes, and sandwiches.
M&S product developers said they had long planned to create a dessert sandwich, and the juiciest moment had arrived. “With our exclusive Red Diamond Strawberries at their juiciest best, the time has finally come to create the ultimate strawberries and crème experience,” a spokesperson said.
Social media reaction
The M&S strawberry sandwich has already caught the attention of customers, with many sharing their thoughts on social media. One Instagram user called it the “best sandwich ever” and rated it “100000/10”. Another described it as “berry berry good”, while a third commented: “Where are my car keys! I need to get this NOW.”
Others compared it to “cake on the go” and said it would be the perfect treat before work or as part of an afternoon tea.
M&S says the sandwich is ideal for alfresco lunches, summer picnics, courtside snacks at Wimbledon, or simply as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.
A rich history of sandwich innovation
M&S Food began offering freshly made sandwiches in the 1920s and introduced pre-packed sandwiches in the 1980s. Since then, the retailer has sold over four billion sandwiches. The launch of the M&S strawberry sandwich adds to this legacy, offering a novel twist on a British summer classic.
Strawberries and cream have long been associated with summer in the UK and are traditionally enjoyed when the fruit is in peak season. The dish’s roots are believed to trace back to Tudor England, where it was served at royal banquets under Henry VIII.
Wimbledon raises strawberries and cream prices
The sandwich launch comes as Wimbledon prepares to open its gates, where strawberries and cream remain one of the most iconic refreshments. For the first time in 15 years, the All England Club has increased the price of the snack from £2.50 to £2.70.
A spokesperson explained: “We have taken the decision to slightly increase the price of strawberries this year from £2.50 to £2.70. We feel this modest increase still ensures that our world-famous strawberries are available at a very reasonable price.”
With rising operational costs, even Wimbledon is feeling the impact of the wider cost-of-living pressures. The club sells around 140,000 punnets each year, meaning the new price could generate an additional £28,000.
Despite the increase, the £2.70 strawberries and cream dish remains one of the best-value items at the tournament. Wimbledon is also among the few major sporting events that allows spectators to bring their own food and drink, including alcohol.
The strawberries served at the Championships are picked the same morning from the family-run Hugh Lowe Farm in Kent, ensuring freshness.
Sweet timing
As Wimbledon fever builds and summer reaches full swing, M&S’s latest offering taps into both tradition and innovation. The M&S strawberry sandwich is a playful take on a classic flavour pairing and adds a fresh option to the retailer’s seasonal range, just in time for one of the UK’s most iconic sporting events.