AOI PUNE

25/08/2025

*Allergy Symposium – AOI Pune Chapter, Date: 24th August 2025, Venue: Orbett Hotel, Apte Road, Pune*

Under the aegis of the AOI Pune Chapter, an engaging and academically rich Allergy Symposium was held on 24th August 2025 at the Orbett Hotel. With nasal allergy being one of the most frequent ENT OPD presentations—and a field undergoing rapid evolution—the topic was both timely and well-received, drawing enthusiastic participation from clinicians across disciplines.

The day commenced with tea, coffee, and breakfast, followed by a practical workshop on *Skin Prick Test* led by Dr Santosh Latkar and Dr Parmanand Chavan, where the Evexia test kit was demonstrated with clarity and precision. Delegates gathered around live demo stations, absorbing key safety protocols, practical tips, and critical dos and don’ts. The interactive nature of the session set a dynamic tone for the day. The academic sessions began with Dr Dushyant Khedikar’s lucid talk on the *Basics of Allergy*, transforming a traditionally dry subject into a clinician-friendly narrative. This was followed by Dr Kavita Choudhuri’s presentation on *Overview of Common Allergens*, covering airway and food allergens, especially Pune-specific airborne allergy calendar. A few pointed questions later, the gathering broke for a short tea-biscuits break.
After a brief refreshment break, Pulmonologist Dr Shraddha Kulkarni delivered a compelling lecture on *One Airway, One Disease*, emphasizing the anatomical and pathological continuum between upper and lower airways and the emerging role of monoclonal antibodies in allergy management. Dr Santosh Latkar returned to the podium with a focused talk on the *Systemic Approach to Allergic Rhinitis*, highlighting ARIA guidelines, symptom-based tailoring of therapy and non-pharmacologic strategies for holistic care.

The academic crescendo was reached with the arrival of distinguished guests from Mumbai. Dr Ashim Desai, esteemed senior ENT Surgeon, entrepreneur, teacher, and orator, delivered an eloquent address on the *Impact of Allergy on the Nose*, seamlessly integrating research findings with clinical application with clear guidelines, thus bridging the gap between lab and patient. Dr Ameeta Gunderia followed with a scintillating masterclass on the *Role of Immunotherapy in Allergy*, covering routes of administration, patient selection and contraindications and management of refractory cases.

A lavish rooftop buffet featuring a 10-course meal and dual dessert offerings provided a relaxed setting for informal networking. This was followed by a brisk and vibrant *Panel Discussion*, where experts debated contemporary approaches to allergy treatment, enriching the dialogue with diverse clinical perspectives. The symposium concluded on a high note with a vote of thanks to our supporters, felicitations to Chairpersons Brig (Retd) Ramakrishnan and Dr Surekha Autee, Dr Mariya Motiwalla ,Dr Ravi Sardesai ,Dr Mihir Suryavanshi ,Dr Minal Ovhal,Dr R Rangnath Vaidya, Dr Prakash Kulkarni ,Dr Sharmela Sondhi and mementos and tokens of appreciation presented to all speakers. The audience gave a heartfelt recognition of the organising team, Dr Kavita Choudhuri – President, Dr Monika Bhagat – Treasurer and Dr Ajinkya Kelkar – Secretary & Master of Ceremonies. The *Valedictory session* was marked by camaraderie, professional warmth, and a shared commitment to advancing allergy care in clinical practice.
Write up
Dr Shreelekha Ray
ENT Surgeon

18/08/2025

***cofree On 18 August 2025, AOI Pune and the PACE Foundation jointly organised an anti‐addiction awareness session at PMC School, Undri Chowk, Pune, concentrating on to***co dependence. Although rain thwarted plans for an outdoor assembly, teachers promptly relocated students into the audio‐visual room, where a microphone, standee, posters and a television had been arranged. The program opened at 8:30 am sharp and concluded just over an hour later.

Dr. Kavita Chaudhuri led an interactive talk in Marathi for pupils of Classes 7 and 8, ably supported by volunteers Drs Monika Bhagat and Sreelekha Ray. As the lecture progressed, volunteers invited the students to display posters highlighting the dangers of to***co, alcohol and even social‐media addiction. Their active participation kept the atmosphere engaging and reinforced the core messages. Following the presentation, all the children recited a pledge vowing to resist addictive substances and to guide peers who might succumb. The event closed with a screening of the Marathi short film “Pratidnya,” which portrays a teenager’s struggle with to***co exposure and ultimate resolve never to use it.

This intervention offered a vital wake‐up call for children who, surrounded by cheap to***co products and glamorous advertising, need accurate information to make informed choices and protect their health.

08/08/2025

AOI Pune successfully conducted ENT screening camp for 51 boys in Balgruha Orphange located in Shelpimpalgoan. Children were screened for any ENT pathologies. Free medical samples were distributed. Children were very enthusiastic and the camp went very smoothly. Special thanks for volunteers Dr Amruta Ambekar-Siddha and Dr Avinash Malekar whose active participation along with Dr Kavita Choudhary (President, AOI Pune) and myself Dr Ajinkya Kelkar (Secretary, AOI Pune) made this event successful.

28/07/2025

Karaoke Pune # doctor # hobby # work life balance #
Aoi Pune organised a wonderful Karaoke program on 27 th july sunday afternoon.
It was karaoke singing. All singers were aoi Pune members and few were their spouses who participated.
Dr R Rangnath Vaidya ,Dr Kailas Sant, Dr Sanjay Joshi,Dr Prakash Kulkarni,Dr Ramesh Rohiwal ,Dr Vijay Sonawane, Dr Gauri Belsare, Dr Mubarak Khan , Dr Ramakrishnan, Dr Swanand Gholap, Dr Parmanand Chawan , Dr Ganesh Wadekar ,Dr Dushyant Khedikar and Dr Kavita Choudhari,participated in karaoke program.
Our Special thanks goes to Spouse and Family members Dr Priti Preeti Joshi Gholap and Mrunal Joshi for singing. And Sandeep Choudhari for anchoring.
AOI PUNE treasurer Monika Monika Bhagat Kawadkar did excellent job, anchoring the whole program with co anchor Sandeep Choudhari.
Aoi Pune Secretary , Dr Ajinkya Kelkar conducted felicitation program and vote of thanks.
An amazing experience of singing, great acoustics, and system with sound engineer back up at Soundtrack Cafe, Pimple Nilakh, Pune.

23/07/2025

PACE de addiction drive # aoi pune # addiction # de addiction # school awareness program
AOI PUNE conducted De addiction drive program at Kai Baburao Genuji Balwadkar School at Balewadi.
It was attended by 170 boys and girls students from 6 th and 7 th STD classes.
Students were told information about various addicting products like to***co , cigarette, g***a, afu , mawa, gutkha, hukka va**ng and alcohol.
They were explained how not to get into the trap of addiction.
Social media, you tube, reel watching, TV, all are also one the addictions.
Students were encouraged to take up healthy, physical activities like swimming, running, dancing, singing, acting, reading books, eating healthy food and stay in real world and avoid living in virtual world of media .
Students participated in interactions very well.
They also took an oath at the end to stay away from addictions and save others from addictions.
The program was well appreciated by the teachers who attended it.
AOI PUNE is grateful to PACE Group, President Dr Vandana Joshi mam and Kalpana Babar mam , Principal Balwadkar School. for giving us opportunity to conduct the program.
AOI PUNE team, always ready to perform it's social responsibility by conducting such events in various parts of Pune.
Thank you so much Dr Ajinkya Kelkar , for your indispensable part in the whole program.

15/07/2025

Today, felicitated Richa of Yoga Spandan on behalf of AOI PUNE, who conducted online yoga session for us on International Yoga day 21 st June 2025.🙏🏻
Thank you Richa, for conducting wonderful online yoga session for all our AOI PUNE members.

30/06/2025

Aoi Pune # meeting life balance #
Case presentation #
29th June , AOI PUNE organized a meet at AOI OFFICE, Pune.
The housefull hall , own premises, insightful talks, Interesting case discussions, healthy interactions, role play to explain patient doctor communication and delicious food
made the event meaningful and was highly appreciated by all who attended.
The event was anchored by Dr Kavita Choudhari.
Case Presentations were done Postgraduate students from Bharati Vidyapeeth Medical College, Nawale Medical College and AFMC Pune.
Guest speaker Dr Rupali Choudhary Psychiatrist by profession ,delivered a talk on Patient Doctor communication and counselling. She also used role play to explain it in easier, memorable way.
It was followed by A talk on work life Balance by a Power Couple Dr Maya Bhalerao and Dr Sudhir Bhalerao.
Both being doctor, following their passion and how they manage it.
It was an interactive session.
They made it even more interesting by showing memories of their travels and shared many tips and tricks to manage work life balance
Dr Prakash Kulkarni felicitated Dr Rupali Choudhary and Bhalerao couple was felicitated by Dr R Vaidya.
Dr Poorva Poorva Athavale Lunavat , your contribution was invaluable too.
Aoi PUNE expresses thank you to all speakers, and attendees for sparing time for the meeting and for your thoughtful inputs.
A big thank you to Bhalerao couple who donated ENT journals, books for PG students. Its such a wonderful gesture!

Meeting was followed by dinner.

24/06/2025

warkari

Heartfelt Appreciation of AOI PUNE Members:
1Dr Sudhir Bhalerao
2Dr Rupali Ekbote
3.Dr Amol Joshi

The members of our association recently demonstrated exceptional commitment and compassion by serving Warkari embarking on their spiritual journeys. Their selfless efforts have not only provided crucial support to those on pilgrimage but have also brought immense credit and gratitude to our organization.
Their tasks were varied and vital, encompassing everything from providing first aid to offering guidance, managing crowds, and simply being a reassuring presence for weary travelers.
What truly stood out was the spirit with which these services were rendered. Each interaction was marked by genuine kindness, patience, and an unwavering desire to help.
This dedicated work is a testament to the strong values upheld by our association. It reflects a deep understanding of community responsibility and a profound respect for individuals on their spiritual paths.
We extend our deepest gratitude to every member who participated in this noble endeavor. Your hard work, tireless efforts, and unwavering dedication have made a tangible difference in the lives of many. You have not only served the pilgrims but have also exemplified the very best of our association. We are incredibly proud of your contributions and look forward to continuing such impactful initiatives in the future.
Team AOI PUNE

21/06/2025

Aoi pune yoga day # body # soul #
AOI PUNE organized online yoga session today morning to mark the International Yoga day.
In fact this is the occasion to join in together physically, off line to get connected with each other but Palkhi day, road closure made us choose this online path which is definitely better than nothing.
Many enthusiastic AOI PUNE members along with their family members joined for this beautiful, refreshing yoga session . It was conducted by yoga Guru, Richa whobconducts yoga since decade. She is known as Richa Yoga Spandan. She has trained many nationally and internationally.
My heartfelt thanks to dear Richa for this mind body soul enriching yoga experience.
I would like to extend thanks to our enthusiastic AOI PUNE members who took out time in the morning to join this session.
Wish you all a very happy International Yoga day!!!

19/06/2025

29/05/2025

Aoi Pune team conducted ENT CHECK UP camp at Shambhu Anathalaya, Hadapsar.
We did ENT check up for 30 children , age ranging from 6 to 16 yrs .and few elderly inmates from adjacent old age home.
Treasurer Dr Monika Bhagat , led this camp and made all necessary arrangements for the camp.
Dr Jagrati and Dr Manali also enthusiastically participated in the camp.
Dr Kavita Choudhari, senior ENT Surgeon and President of Aoi Pune, interacted with children and told them do's and don'ts in ENT.
She also discussed addiction and it's bad effects on lives and health.
Lastly Dr Monika Bhagat donated note books and Stationary pouches for kids.
There was a 5 yr deaf mute girl using sign language with no speech development. Aoi pune team will further investigate the girl and do needful .

19/05/2025

AOI PUNE in collaboration with CAEFA held its monthly meeting Nose and beyond , on 18th Of May 2025 at Rami Grand Hotel.
It was encouraging response from members.
It was a visit to State of the art ENT Hospital, Center for Advanced ENT and Facial Aesthetics (CAEFA) recently inaugurated in Pune. The director of Center , renowned ENT Surgeon, popularly known for his rhinoplasty work, Dr Virendra Ghaisas, himself personally arranged tour of his newly opened center for all AOI PUNE members.
It was a proud moment for all members that such well equipped, aesthetically built, state of the art hospital is in our city, Pune.
It was followed by meeting at Rami Grand.
AOI PUNE Treasurer Dr Monika Bhagat, conducted meeting flawlessly with help of Secretary Dr Ajinkya Kelkar.
Dr Mukta Tulpule Dani, Dermatologist and cosmetologist delivered a talk on" Recent adavances in facial asthetic dermatology" followed by much awaited talk by Senior , Eminent ENT Surgeon Dr Virendra Ghaisas on topic "Septoplasty Revisited"
Vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Ajinkya Kelkar.
Both the talks were well appreciated by audience.
AOI PUNE team sincerely thanks Dr Virendra Ghaisas and CAEFA team for collaborating in organizing an impactful meet.
Heartfelt thanks to Chairpersons Col Dr Vikas Gupta and Dr Vikram Oak.
Special thanks to all members who could make it for the meeting.