Nethradhama Under The Aegis Of Karnataka Ophthalmology Society And Bangalore Ophthalmology Society Hosts Phaco Festival 2026

* The event showcases India’s Next-Gen Eye Surgery Innovations

* Dr. C. N. Manjunath, Member of Parliament, Bengaluru Rural and Former Director, Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, Bengaluru, inaugurated the Phaco Festival 2026, the 10th edition of India’s leading global conferences on ophthalmology

* The conference focuses on sharing knowledge, improving surgical skills, and showcasing the latest innovations in cataract and refractive eye surgery

Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, under the aegis of leading ophthalmology bodies – the Karnataka Ophthalmology Society (KOS) and the Bangalore Ophthalmology Society (BOS), hosted the 10th edition of Phaco Festival, one of the leading international conferences on ophthalmology, in Bengaluru. The event was inaugurated by the Member of Parliament, Bengaluru Rural, and the Former Director, Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, Bengaluru, at the Hilton Conrad, who highlighted India’s growing role in advancing eye care and medical innovation.

The three-day conference, being held from January 16 to 18, 2026, is bringing together leading ophthalmologists, surgeons, and medical technology experts from India and across the world to discuss advances in cataract and refractive eye surgery through scientific sessions, expert interactions, and technology showcases. This year, Phaco Festival 2026 is being held under the theme, “The Art and Science of Ophthalmic Practice,” focusing on blending clinical expertise, technological innovation, and evidence-based learning to advance safe and high-quality eye care.

The event witnessed expert participation from over 10 countries, spotlighting the latest ophthalmic innovations through immersive hands-on sessions and interactive presentations. A dedicated technology showcase will feature device manufacturers, IOL developers, laser technology providers, and AI-driven tools that enhance surgical precision, improve patient safety, and elevate standards of care.

The conference will also honour excellence in ophthalmology by recognising distinguished clinicians for their outstanding contributions to the field. As part of the awards ceremony, Prof. Dr. Michael Knorz from Germany will be conferred the prestigious KR Murthy Oration Award, while Dr. Ruth Lapid-Gortzak from Amsterdam will be presented with the Gold Medal, acknowledging their significant global impact and leadership in advancing ophthalmic practice.

Phaco Festival 2026 will feature the launch of several state-of-the-art ophthalmology technologies, including the ZEISS ARTEVO 850 Digital 3D Microscope for high-definition visualization, the EVA Nexus Phaco-Vitrectomy System for seamless cataract and retinal procedures, and the VisuMax 800 for SMILE surgeries. Femtosecond laser platforms such as the Ziemer Neo Z8 with Supra CLEAR premium intraocular lenses like the Naturo Toric Introcular EDOF Lens will also be showcased. Together, these innovations demonstrate how data-driven precision and intelligent surgical technologies are transforming outcomes, enhancing patient safety, and redefining the future of eye care in India.

Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. C. N. Manjunath said, “There is a strong need for more platforms like Phaco Festival that enable continuous learning and meaningful collaboration with global experts. Such forums help clinicians stay aligned with international best practices and emerging technologies. As India continues to strengthen its healthcare ecosystem, initiatives like these will play a critical role in positioning the country as a global hub for medical education, innovation, and high-quality patient care.”

Commenting on the Phaco Festival, Prof. Dr. Sri Ganesh, Founder and Chairman & Managing Director, Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, and Organising Chairman of Phaco Festival, said, “Phaco Festival focuses on strengthening standards of eye care through evidence-based learning, continuous skill development, and the safe adoption of new technologies. Over the years, it has evolved into a global platform where ophthalmologists learn from one another and continuously raise the quality and safety of surgical outcomes. This edition carries that commitment forward, with a strong focus on practical learning that directly translates into better, more reliable care for patients.”

The conference features surgical demonstrations, expert lectures, panel discussions, and hands-on training sessions. Key areas of discussion include advanced cataract surgery techniques, artificial intelligence in ophthalmology, new intraocular lenses, and technology-driven improvements in patient care.

Dr. Supriya Sri Ganesh, Executive Director, Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital and Organising Secretary of Phaco Festival, said, “It is encouraging to see such strong participation from ophthalmologists across India and international faculty at Phaco Festival 2026. The conference provides an excellent opportunity to learn from global experts and understand how emerging technologies can be effectively integrated into clinical practice. Our aim is to ensure that innovation ultimately translates into safer procedures and better vision care for patients.”

With over thousands of delegates, including senior clinicians, young ophthalmologists, academicians, and industry leaders, Phaco Festival 2026 continues to reinforce its role as India’s premier platform for fostering collaboration, surgical excellence, and the next generation of ophthalmic innovation.

France's Rebel Bagel Brand, Bagelstein Lands Boldly In Bengaluru Targets 100 Stores By 2029

Europe's cheeky bagel cult favourite opens 3rd India store with Franchise India

Bagelstein, France's bagel pioneer founded in 2011, today unveiled its third India store at Pyramid Food Court in EGL Business Park, Bengaluru. Following successful debuts in Hyderabad and Delhi's in 2025, the brand brings its signature handcrafted bagels, premium coffees, and playful personality to India's Silicon Valley—a top hub for global F&B brands where the organized food service ranks #3 after Mumbai and Delhi-NCR, with 110,000+ outlets and 8-13% CAGR growth.

Bengaluru's mind reader Abhishek Majitya joined as special guest, toasting the launch with Bagelstein's signature creations.

The new outlet will offer Bagelstein's signature oven-fresh bagels, decadent spreads, stacked sandwiches, and delicious desserts—paired with artisanal coffees. True to its mischievous DNA, the space fuses European aesthetic with playful quirks that embody the brand's "Seriously, not serious" spirit.

Riding India's Café and Bagel Boom
India's youth are shifting from traditional eats to Western indulgences, with the café market surging 15-20% annually and Bengaluru leading for experiential dining. This growth catalyses the introduction of global chains like Bagelstein, which plans 100 stores across Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and more by 2029.

Gaurav Marya, Founder & Chairman, Franchise India, said: "Bagelstein's cheeky bagels and bold vibe perfectly match India's emerging youth craving gourmet café indulgences—one naughty bite at a time."

"Bengaluru's vibrant food scene is perfect for our bagels, an emerging disruptive snack category. From Hyderabad to Delhi and now Bengaluru, we're toasting bold flavours and building a cult following.” added Ravish Malhotra, Area Developer, Bagelstein Bengaluru.

Bagelstein's Bengaluru launch fortifies its foothold in India's booming QSR and café scene, captivating young diners who crave global zing, premium bites, and a fun vibe.

About Bagelstein
Started in Strasbourg, Bagelstein operates 100+ European outlets, blending authentic bagels (45% sales), desserts (35%), and drinks (20%) with humor and quality—ready for nationwide scale in India. For more information on the brand please logon to https://www.bagelstein.in/ .

About Franchise India Brands

Asia's largest integrated Franchise and Retail Solution Company since 1999, with an absolute authority on Franchising, Retailing and Licensing, empowering brands like Barcelos to expand in India.

Herbalife India Flags Off All-Women E-Auto Fleet In Mysuru, Powering Green Mobility Revolution

* Expanding from Bengaluru's 115 empowered drivers, 75+ women in Mysuru to gain sustainable livelihoods, EV skills, and financial independence

Herbalife India, a premier health and wellness company, community, and platform, in partnership with Shishu Mandir, today launched the Mysuru chapter of its flagship ECO Wheels Women’s Initiative. The event flagged off 75+ electric autos driven by women, kicking off the “Her Route, Our Future” movement and year-long “Green Mysuru, Clean Mysuru” campaign to promote green mobility and economic independence.

The launch took place in the presence of Uday Prakash, VP of Strategy and Implementation at Herbalife India; T.S. Srivathsa, MLA of Krishnaraja Constituency, Mysuru; Shri Anand C, Director, Shishu Mandir; Smt. Seema Latkar, I.P.S., Commissioner of Mysuru City Police and other distinguished dignitaries. The initiative empowers marginalized women with e-autos, driving training for local terrains, licensing, maintenance, digital tools, financial literacy, self-defense, and market linkages.

Uday Prakash, Vice President - Strategy and Implementation at Herbalife said, “At Herbalife, we’re deeply inspired by the ECO Wheels Women’s Initiative, which embodies our commitment to sustainable progress and shared prosperity. Following Bengaluru’s remarkable success, this expansion to Mysuru is transforming lives by equipping these women with vital skills and the confidence to thrive. They’re not just driving electric autos; they’re steering their families and communities towards a brighter, greener future.”

Building on the success of Bengaluru’s ECO-Wheels initiative, which enabled 115 women beneficiaries to increase their monthly incomes from ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 and positively impacted over 750 individuals and the wider community through a zero-emission mobility model, Herbalife India in partnership with Shishu Mandir is now scaling the program to Mysuru as Phase 2.

The next phase will focus on high-demand transport routes, accelerating the adoption of clean mobility while creating sustainable livelihoods. The expansion is projected to deliver impact equivalent to planting around 1.4 lac trees over five years, aligning with the Government of India’s FAME-II objectives. Over a five-year period, the Mysuru rollout is expected to generate a cumulative income of ₹50 crore for all women beneficiaries, reinforcing Herbalife India’s commitment to inclusive growth, women’s empowerment, and environmental stewardship.

Addressing the gathering Shri. Seema Latkar, I.P.S., Commissioner, Mysuru City Police said "As Commissioner of Mysuru City Police, I have seen firsthand how economic independence transforms the lives of women and makes our communities safer and more resilient. The Eco-Wheels Women’s Initiative is a commendable step toward enabling women to take charge of their futures while contributing to greener, cleaner urban mobility. Mysuru Police extends its full support to such initiatives that champion equality, inclusion, and social progress."

Shri Anand C, Director, Shishu Mandir, added "For over three decades, Shishu Mandir has worked to create dignified, scalable livelihood opportunities for underserved communities. Eco-Wheels has grown from a mobility program into a movement of confidence and self-reliance. With the Mysuru launch, we are enabling more women and transgender individuals to claim their rightful place as independent earners and respected contributors to society."

About Herbalife International India Private Ltd.

Herbalife (NYSE: HLF) is a premier health and wellness company, community and platform that has been changing people's lives with great nutrition products and a business opportunity for its independent distributors since 1980. The Company offers science-backed food and non-food products to consumers in more than 90 markets through entrepreneurial distributors who provide one-on-one coaching and a supportive community that inspires their customers to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle to live their best life.

For more information, visit https://www.herbalife.com/en-in

TAPMI Advances Socially Responsible Management Education On Founders’ Day With Launch Of Centre For Social Empowerment

T. A. Pai Management Institute (TAPMI), a constituent of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, celebrated its annual Founders’ Day at the Ramdas Pai Auditorium, MAHE Bengaluru Campus, Yelahanka. The event, held ahead of the 104th birth anniversary of Padma Bhushan Shri Tonse Ananth Pai, brought together leaders from academia, industry, and the social sector, along with faculty and students, to reaffirm the institute’s legacy of purpose-driven management education.

Padma Bhushan Shri T. A. Pai (born 17 January 1922) was a pioneering institution builder who shaped India’s financial and public-sector landscape as Chairman of Syndicate Bank, the first Chairman of the Food Corporation of India, and Chairman of LIC. He founded the Manipal Institute of Management in 1980–81, later renamed TAPMI, embedding social responsibility at the core of management education. In this spirit, TAPMI Bengaluru celebrates Founders’ Day by engaging and honouring leaders who build purpose-driven business solutions for social impact.

This year’s celebration was highlighted by the launch of the Centre for Social Empowerment (CSE), reinforcing TAPMI Bengaluru’s commitment to socially anchored and impact-led management education. Reflecting on the launch of the centre, Prof. (Dr) Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MLHS & MAHE Bengaluru conveyed his best wishes to TAPMI on the success of CSE launch highlighting a significant milestone to socially responsible management education and impactful CSR initiatives, a long-standing vision of our founder Padma Bhushan Shri T.A. Pai.

The Centre for Social Empowerment (CSE) was officially inaugurated by Dr Raghavendra Prabhu P, Additional Registrar & Director Administration, MAHE Bengaluru who while addressing the gathering noted, “The inauguration of the Centre for Social Empowerment ahead of our Founder Shri T. A. Pai’s 104th birth anniversary reflects his belief that management education must focus on “Social empowerment”. The Centre bridges knowledge and action, nurturing leaders who combine business excellence with social impact.

Chief Guest Mr. Kushal Raj Chakravorty, Founder and Managing Trustee of Lotus Petal Foundation, delivering the T. A. Pai Memorial Lecture, observed that “India as a nation is divided into three divisions. This India three is almost 100 million households, and about 300 million people who are surviving on annual capita of Rs 80,000 or less. India 1 is basically the booming story of India. Scale is in India 2. But the future of our country is India 3, and the gap can be filled through education. While growing up I realised that the purpose of life is self-realisation and the most authentic way of self-realisation is through service. My message to the crowd: it does not need to make a choice between inner purpose and outer impact while building a clarity of self. Creating a substantial impact is what the brightest minds should focus on.”

The launch was also attended by alumni and Guests of Honour: Mr. V. Prem Kumar, Global HR Executive and Head of HR–APAC, Omnissa, and Mr. Swaminathan Chandrashekhar, Director – HR Business Partnership and Head of HR, India Capability Center, Cargill.

The Centre for Social Empowerment (CSE) is a multidisciplinary platform addressing challenges such as unemployment, inclusion of indigenous communities, financial and digital literacy, entrepreneurship, access to basic amenities, and healthcare. Through a network of for-profit and not-for-profit organisations across underserved geographies, the Centre focuses on research, capacity building, and structured collaboration among academia, government, industry, and civil society, translating knowledge into meaningful on-ground impact.

The collaboration with Lotus Petal Foundation will enhance student engagement through co-designed educational programmes, sustained community engagement, and hands-on research experience. The Centre has also signed MoUs with NCUI and United Way Bengaluru, with additional partnerships in the pipeline, including Sutradhaar, Tinker Labs, SELCO, and Intended Impact Creation, to advance education, community engagement, and collaborative research.

Highlighting academic integration, Prof. Navaneetha Krishnan, Dean, TAPMI Bengaluru, emphasized saying “Any developing country will flourish faster if the underprivileged people are included in the system and could contribute to the exponential national growth. One way of doing it is through transformation in the way people undertake businesses. If taken in a responsible manner, it can lead to reduction in Inequality and Poverty, paving the way for sustainable development and inclusive growth”.

Social responsibility is deeply embedded in TAPMI Bengaluru’s pedagogy. Through its Social Internship Programme, undergraduate BBA students work with social purpose organisations to design human-centred, feasible, and scalable solutions. In 2025 alone, over 280 students collaborated with more than 190 organisations, with outstanding projects recognised and awarded during the Founders’ Day programme. The event also honoured project grants and the institute’s best researchers, celebrating excellence in both applied and academic contributions.

Through these initiatives, TAPMI Bengaluru not only honours the visionary legacy of Shri T. A. Pai but transforms it into action, cultivating a generation of leaders who understand that business success, community well-being, and sustainable development are interconnected. By integrating socially responsible practices, inclusive growth, and sustainable thinking into its curriculum and programmes and advancing key priorities across the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the institute continues to provide management education that is purpose-driven, socially conscious, and globally relevant.

Government Of Ireland And Teamwork Arts Announce JLF: Island Of Ireland Edition

At the 19th edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF), the Government of Ireland, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Teamwork Arts have announced a landmark three-year partnership to bring an all-island edition of the festival to Ireland.

JLF is one of the world’s largest free literary festivals, celebrated annually in Jaipur, India. It was founded in 2006 by celebrated authors Namita Gokhale, Anita Anand and William Dalrymple and produced by Sanjoy Roy of Teamwork Arts. The festival is attended by thousands of readers each year - young and old - and attracts the participation of major international writers. It is also an annual opportunity for debate on a wide range of current affairs topics, both domestic and geo-political.

Due to its growing global reputation, JLF expanded internationally with editions of the festival taking place in other parts of the world. For over a decade, the Embassy of Ireland in New Delhi and Culture Ireland have been strong supporters of the festival and have supported the attendance of a range of Irish writers and poets.

The all island edition will be a 10-day festival, taking place in May 2026 (22nd – 31st), starting off in Belfast, then travelling to Armagh and Dundalk, before ending in Dublin. Speakers confirmed for the festival so far include Jeet Thayil, Kavita Puri, Michelle Gallen, Tishani Doshi, William Dalrympie and Jane Ohlmeyer.

The Island of Ireland JLF will have a distinctive historical focus, exploring the places of Ireland and India within the empire: how each was shaped by the experience, where and how their stories intersected, where they sat in the sweep of world history, and what that means for their societies and relations today. It will bring together leading voices from politics, science, and the arts, from the island of Ireland and abroad. It will engage with the growing Indian diaspora on the island, a key thread in the Ireland-India relationship.

Speaking at the launch, Ambassador of Ireland to India Kevin Kelly said: “Ireland’s partnership with Teamwork Arts reflects the growing depth of Ireland-India relations. The all island edition also contributes to building a more shared island: one that better understands how we came to be the way we are and where Ireland and India fit in the wider world. Music, food, and spectacle will bring people together across the border and across communities. We hope this partnership shares the best of Irish art, literature and culture and leads to even greater collaboration with India in the future.”

Instagram Empowers Creators To Go Global With Local Voice Translations And Fonts

Today, we’re excited to announce that you can now use Meta AI to translate reels into Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Marathi, in addition to Hindi, English, Spanish, and Portuguese. While this was announced in November 2025, the feature to translate, dub, and lip sync reels into more Indian languages is rolling out to everyone today.

Today, at the exclusive ‘House of Instagram’ event in Mumbai, we shared two new updates from Instagram that not only underline India’s importance for Meta, but also further the possibilities for creators to reach new audiences.

Meta AI Translations Expand To Five New Indian Languages on Instagram & Facebook

We’re excited to announce in the coming months you will soon be able to use Meta AI to translate reels in five new Indian languages, helping you discover more entertaining content from across India and around the world. In October, we launched the ability for creators to dub and lip-sync their reels to and from English, Hindi, Spanish, and Portuguese, helping them reach more people globally. Now, the same capability will soon be available in Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Marathi.

How will this work?

Creators have the option to use Meta AI to transform their reels, so they sound and look fluent in some of the world’s most spoken languages, helping them reach more people globally and grow an international audience. When turned on, the tool preserves the sound and tone of your voice, so your reels feel authentically you. You can also choose to enable the lip syncing feature, which syncs the translated audio to your mouth’s movements, so it looks like you’re actually speaking the language.

New Indian Fonts Available on Edits

Additionally, creators will now have the benefit of using new Indian fonts on Edits. So you’ll now be able to style your text and captions with Devanagari and Bengali-Assamese scripts, in languages such as Hindi, Marathi, Bengali and Assamese. This update will roll out on Android in the coming days.

How will this work?

Within your editing timeline, head to “Text” on the bottom tools tray.

From there click on the “Aa” icon where you’ll see the list of fonts available.

If your device is already in Devanagari or Bengali-Assamese scripts, these fonts will be defaulted in the font tab. If not, slightly swipe down when you’re on the “all fonts” tab to filter your fonts by language.

These new updates follow a spree of other features launched in the past month to benefit creators. This includes the ability to restyle your photos and videos in Instagram Stories and make edits—big or small—using Meta AI. There are also new features in Edits, such as bulk editing captions, reversing your videos, using lip sync to bring your photos to life, and access to 400 more sound effects.

Carlsberg India Inaugurates New Can Line At Mysuru Brewery, Reinforcing Commitment To Karnataka

Carlsberg India, a subsidiary of the globally renowned Danish brewer with a 178-year legacy, announced the inauguration of a new can line at its Mysuru brewery. This milestone reinforces the company’s long-term commitment to Karnataka, following its ₹350 crore expansion pledge made at Invest Karnataka 2025 to further expand the Mysuru facility.

The new can line has been established with an investment of ₹100 crore and offers a production capacity of 22,000 cans per hour (CPH). The addition significantly enhances the brewery’s ability to meet growing consumer demand and forms an integral part of Carlsberg India’s broader expansion strategy across the country.

Speaking at the inauguration, Shri Yathindra Siddaramaiah, Member of the Legislative Council (MLC), Government of Karnataka, said, “We appreciate Carlsberg India’s continued investments of ₹350 crore in Karnataka, particularly in Mysuru, and their impactful work that contributes positively to society. These efforts reflect the company’s strong confidence in the state’s industrial ecosystem. We encourage more companies to step forward with increased local investments and job creation, especially in Mysuru, to support inclusive and sustainable regional development.”

Commenting on the development, Mr. Nilesh Patel, Managing Director, Carlsberg India, said, “Our continued investment in Karnataka underscores our long-term commitment to the state. Through this expansion, we aim to sustainably produce international-quality beers for consumers, contribute to state excise revenues, and generate additional direct and indirect employment opportunities for the local community.”

Located in Nanjangud taluk, the Mysuru brewery is spread across 28 acres and manufactures Carlsberg and Tuborg brands. The facility reflects Carlsberg India’s strong focus on responsible and sustainable brewing practices. It operates biomass boilers using husk and biogas as fuel. Additionally, 85% of the brewery’s power requirements are met through solar energy.

Carlsberg India is also actively engaged in water sustainability initiatives in Karnataka, working in partnership with WaterAid and local communities to promote responsible water stewardship.

About Carlsberg India

Carlsberg India is a subsidiary of the Carlsberg Group, one of the world’s most respected brewing companies. Headquartered in Denmark, the Carlsberg Group is governed by the Carlsberg Foundation, a unique ownership model that reinvests dividends into advancing science, art, and sustainability globally.

Established in India in 2007, Carlsberg India has emerged as a leading player in the premium and super-premium beer segments. The company operates 14 breweries across the country, comprising eight company-owned state-of-the-art breweries and seven contract manufacturing units, ensuring wide availability and consistent quality. Its portfolio includes brands such as Carlsberg Smooth, Carlsberg Elephant, and Tuborg Strong, Tuborg Classic, Tuborg Green, Tuborg Ice Draft, Tuborg Classic, and the iconic 1664 Blanc.

Carlsberg’s legacy of innovation includes the invention of the pH scale and groundbreaking work in yeast purification, shaping modern brewing science. This pioneering spirit continues to guide Carlsberg India’s brewing philosophy today.

Guided by its ESG commitments under Together Towards ZERO and Beyond, Carlsberg India is working towards a ZERO Carbon Footprint, ZERO Water Waste, ZERO Packaging Waste, ZERO Irresponsible Drinking, and a ZERO Accidents Culture, while also supporting regenerative agriculture to reduce farming’s environmental impact.

With a blend of heritage, innovation, and sustainability, Carlsberg India remains dedicated to brewing for a better today and tomorrow.

To read more, visit www.carlsbergindia.com

HDFC Bank Launches Startup Lounges In Bengaluru And Guwahati On National Startup Day

HDFC Bank, India’s leading private sector bank, today announced the launch of its exclusive Startup Lounges ahead of the 10th anniversary of the National Startup Day on January 16. The startup lounges, a part of the Bank’s continued focus on strengthening engagement with India’s startup ecosystem, will be launched at the HSR Layout, 24th Main Road branch in Bengaluru, and the GS Road branch, Guwahati.

Startup Lounges will be dedicated to servicing startups while also providing a professional environment for them to work and ideate. Further, the lounges will provide the Bank an ideal space to connect with founders, investors, venture capital firms, and the broader startup ecosystem. The space will also see the Bank host the events involving the startup ecosystem.

Mr. Sampath Kumar, Group Head - Retail Branch Banking and Alternate Banking Channel & Partnerships, HDFC Bank, with responsibility for West and South regions, said, “With Bengaluru being a vibrant startup hub of the country, the Bank’s Startup Lounge in the city will serve as a networking centre for founders who will be able to work with like-minded people. They can also benefit from the Bank's exclusive suite of products and services under the Startup Buildup programme. We hope that our Startup Lounge in the city will provide the environment for the startup ecosystem to flourish more.”

Mr. Arun Mediratta, Group Head - Retail Branch Banking and Alternate Banking Channel & Partnerships, HDFC Bank, with responsibility for North, East and Central regions said, “Guwahati is fast emerging as a centre of the startup ecosystem in the north east region of India, supporting a spirit of entrepreneurship. We’re pleased to have opened a Startup Lounge to welcome startup founders to use the space for working and engaging with the startup community.”

The Bank offers a host of services under the Startup Buildup programme. Some of the key products and services that startups can access under this programme include, Startup Banking Current Account, Collect Now – a digital collection & payments solution, Trade Forex & Offshore Banking, Commercial Cards, ESOP Trust & Share Capital Account, customised Health Insurance, salary accounts for employees, and Credit Facilities under the Central Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) based on meeting the eligibility criteria.

The Bank has an active association with startups. In fact, an initiative called Tech Innovators was introduced in 2024 as an HDFC Bank Group level platform to recognise and celebrate innovation among startups across sectors in the country. It currently works with several startups in areas ranging from domestic and cross–border payments, lending, API development, solutions for government and institutional customers, and agentic AI projects.

HDFC Bank also is a significant contributor to the ecosystem through its participation in the Government’s CGSS as well as well as through HDFC Bank Parivartan, the Bank’s CSR programme.

About HDFC BANK

For more information, click here: www.hdfc.bank.in

ELEVATION, A Gravity-Defying French Production Commissioned For India, Touring For The First Time

When aerial poetry transcends gravity and the body seems to float in mid-air, audiences are invited to “elevate” with two French contemporary dance works presented this January across three major Indian cities.

The French Institute in India, in collaboration with the Alliance Française Network in India, presents ELEVATION, a striking double bill by Yoann Bourgeois Art Company and Compagnie ISI, marking the first touring experience in India for both companies. As part of its ongoing commitment to fostering dialogue in the performing arts, the French Embassy in India organises annual tours introducing leading French artists to Indian audiences, following previous tours by Mourad Merzouki and (La)Horde from the National Ballet of Marseille.

“Approach 17. Opening proposes a simplified take on existential trajectories, alternating between elevations and descents, with a staircase leading nowhere. Temporal chronology is thwarted with plays on the theme of reversibility. Atop an invisible partition, one character manages to elude the void, playing with the laws of gravity and weightlessness in order to reach a state of freedom, situated between balance and imbalance. This visual poem centers on a moving, vertiginous procession towards the point of suspension, that precise, short-lived moment, when a body has progressed to its highest possible point and the inevitable fall has yet to begin,” says French choreographer Yoann Bourgeois, internationally acclaimed and known for collaborations with artists such as Coldplay and Harry Styles.

Presented in three cities—Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, and Delhi—ELEVATION brings together two powerful aerial works exploring suspension, balance, and the timeless human desire to rise beyond limits. The project also offers a rare opportunity to place live performance in dialogue with public space, architecture, and landscape.

When aerial poetry transcends gravity and the body is floating in the sky, take an opportunity to “elevate” with 2 French contemporary dance choreographies coming together this January across 3 major Indian cities.

ABOUT THE TOUR

Bengaluru – Freedom Park (as a part of BLR Hubba Festival), 17 & 18 January 2026 (2 shows)

Ahmedabad – Kanoria Centre for Arts, 24 January 2026

Delhi – Lodhi Art District Festival (in collaboration with St+Art), 1 February 2026

ABOUT THE SHOW

ELEVATION unites for the first time Approach 17. Opening Act and Dialogue au Mât (Le Mât), two creations, respectively choreographed by Yoann Bourgeois and Lucas Struna - who also acts as one of the main performers. Though distinct in form, the works are bound by a shared language of ascent and descent, stillness and motion — a reflection on gravity as both a physical law and a metaphor for human resilience.

Approach 17. Opening Act has been conceived as a minimalist yet powerful performance set to the opening movement of a music by Philip Glass. At its centre is a simple staircase that becomes the stage for a precise dialogue between the body and the laws of physics.

Timed with a hidden trampoline, each fall, rebound, and suspension transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. The act focuses on the point of suspension, that fleeting instant before the fall begins.

“A circus ‘number’ is a condensed form,” explains Bourgeois. “By simplifying, by extracting, we reach an intensity where the piece can exist anywhere, beyond context or culture. Meaning emerges through the act itself.”

Created by Lucas Struna, Dialogue au Mât, which follows in the show, is rooted in Mallakhamb, one of the world’s oldest physical disciplines, originating in India.

After training in Mumbai with master Uday Deshpande, Struna transformed this ancestral practice into a contemporary solo performed around a vertical pole. Blending dance and acrobatics, the piece traces a personal journey shaped by cultural exchange between France and India.

“Mallakhamb taught me that this practice is an offering,” says Struna. “It is not about performance alone, but about discipline, respect, and something greater than oneself. This piece is my way of giving back what India has given me.”

The work reflects a search for harmony between discipline and freedom, body and spirit and brings on stage Indian and French performers in a perfect syncretism of gestures.

Godrej Properties Emerges As India’s Largest Listed Residential Real Estate Developer By Booking Value And Collections In 2025

Key Highlights:

· Booking value grew 19% year-on-year to INR 34,171 crore in CY 2025 

· Collections increased 28% to INR 18,979 crore in CY 2025

· Achieved a CAGR of approximately 44% in booking value and 35% in collections between CY 2022 and CY 2025

Godrej Properties Limited (GPL) (scrip id: GODREJPROP), one of India’s leading real estate developers, announced that it has emerged as the largest listed residential real estate developer in India in Calendar Year 2025 for the second consecutive year, based on key operating metrics of booking value and cash collections.

During CY 2025, GPL sold 16,428 homes with a total saleable area of 27.26 million sq. ft., supported by 41 successful project launches across India. Booking value grew 19% year-on-year to INR 34,171 crore, representing a CAGR of approximately 44% between CY 2022 and CY 2025. Collections for the year increased 28% to INR 18,979 crore, translating into a three-year CAGR of 35%.

GPL delivered consistent quarterly performance throughout the year, recording booking value of over INR 7,000 crore in each of the four quarters of CY 2025. The company’s sales were well diversified geographically, with key contributions from major residential markets: MMR (INR 9,677 crore), NCR (INR 9,348 crore), Bengaluru (INR 6,566 crore), Pune (INR 4,083 crore), and Hyderabad (INR 3,052 crore). This performance was driven by a broad and diversified portfolio, with 11 individual projects each generating booking value in excess of INR 1,000 crore during the year.

In the current financial year to date (FY26 YTD), GPL has recorded booking value of INR 24,008 crore, representing a year-on-year growth of 25%, and collections of INR 12,018 crore, growing 19% year-on-year. In the most recent quarter, Q3 FY26, GPL recorded booking value of INR 8,421 crore, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 55%, and collections of INR 4,282 crore, up 40% year-on-year.

This strong performance across regions and projects reflects GPL’s ability to scale its operations while maintaining a sharp focus on quality, disciplined execution, and customer-centricity.

Commenting on the performance, Gaurav Pandey, MD & CEO, Godrej Properties, said:
“We are deeply grateful to our customers for their continued trust and to our teams for their tireless efforts. Delivering this level of growth in 2025, despite 2024 being a high base year, underscores the strength of demand for well-designed, high-quality homes in India’s major metropolitan markets. We remain focused on building on this momentum in 2026 through excellence in design, construction quality, timely delivery, sustainability, and innovation.”

About Godrej Properties Limited:

Godrej Properties brings the Godrej Industries Group philosophy of innovation, sustainability, and excellence to the real estate industry. Each Godrej Properties development combines a 128-year legacy of excellence and trust with a commitment to cutting edge design, technology, and sustainability. In FY 2025, Godrej Properties retained its position as India’s largest developer by value of residential sales achieved. The company continues to remain deeply focused on sustainable development. In 2010, GPL committed that all of its developments would be third party certified green buildings. In 2020 and again in 2021, 2022, and 2025, the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark ranked GPL #1 globally amongst listed residential developers for its sustainability and governance practices. In 2017, GPL was one of the founding partners of the Sustainable Housing Leadership Consortium (SHLC), whose mission is to spread sustainable development practices across the Indian real estate sector. In recent years, Godrej Properties has received over 500 awards and recognitions, including Developer of the year at the GRI India Awards, 2024, the Porter Prize 2019, The Most Trusted Real Estate Brand in the 2019 Brand Trust Report, Builder of the Year at the CNBC-Awaaz Real Estate Awards 2019, and The Economic Times Best Real Estate Brand 2018.

Thums Up Brings The Iconic ICC Trophy Closer To Cricket Fans Across India At Major Airports

Thums Up, India’s homegrown cola giant, is bringing the prestigious ICC T20 Men’s World Cup Trophy closer to fans through a high-impact ICC Trophy Viewing Experience in partnership with Delhi Airport and Adani Airports across three of the country’s busiest airports. Rooted in its long-standing partnership with the ICC, the initiative celebrates India’s deep, emotional bond with cricket by transforming everyday transit spaces into moments of national pride and fandom.

The initiative is being brought to life in partnership with airport operators. Thums Up has partnered with Delhi Airport and with Adani Airports at Ahmedabad and Mumbai to ensure strong consumer engagement and scale across transit hubs that see millions of Indian travellers every day.

The ICC Trophy Viewing Experience begins at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad on 15th January, followed by Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi on 16th January and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai on 17th January and will be showcased between 6am to 8pm on all days. Delhi Airport will host a dedicated ICC Trophy display, while Ahmedabad and Mumbai will feature an immersive LED mural photo zone designed for fan engagement.

As a long-standing partner of the ICC, Thums Up has consistently played a role in bringing cricket’s biggest milestones closer to Indian fans. The partnership is rooted in a shared belief in the power of sport to unite the country and create moments that go beyond the stadium, turning iconic cricketing assets into lived, real-world experiences for consumers.

Speaking on the initiative, Abhishek Gupta, Chief Customer Officer, Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia said, “Cricket is one of India’s most powerful consumption moments and has a unique way of bringing people together, and Thums Up has always shown up where that passion is strongest. By taking the ICC Trophy experience to India’s major airports with our partners at Delhi Airport and Adani Airports, we’re meeting fans in the middle of their everyday journeys, turning transit spaces into meaningful touchpoints that reflect the scale, confidence and boldness that define Thums Up.”

Speaking on the partnership, Arun Bansal, CEO, Adani Airports Holding Ltd. Said, “AAHL proudly collaborates with Thums Up to bring the ICC Trophy to Ahmedabad and Mumbai airports, turning everyday journeys into vibrant moments of national pride, fan engagement, and innovative travel experiences. We are excited to bring such momentous occasions for our passengers, besides ensuring impeccable infrastructure services. Together, we’re redefining transit as a celebration of India’s sporting spirit.“

Rooted in sport as a powerful cultural force, Thums Up has consistently pioneered new ways for fans to experience the game beyond the screen. From flying contest winners to the ICC World Cup 2024 in West Indies to creating high-impact, tech-led moments around cricket, the brand has turned major sporting milestones into real, shared consumption occasions. These experiences reflect Thums Up’s belief that sport is not just watched, but lived, on the ground, in the moment, and on scale.

The ICC Trophy Experience reflects Thums Up’s long-standing association with cricket and its intent to stay close to moments that matter to fans. By placing the trophy at key transit hubs, the brand aims to meet fans where their journeys begin, creating memorable touchpoints around the game they passionately follow.

Fabindia Welcomes Spring With Basant Panchami In 2026

Marked by yellow hues and fresh blooms, Basant Panchami welcomes the season of spring with a sense of renewal, learning, and serene celebration. Crafted for celebrations, Fabindia’s Basant Panchami collection reflects the spirit of the season through timeless silhouettes, artisanal craftsmanship, and effortless comfort.

The collection includes a bright yellow, light, and breathable handwoven cotton-blend sari, ideal for morning pujas and family events. Also featured is a vibrant cotton-silk blend three-piece garara set for children, designed with traditional, playful details.

Handcrafted accessories add a refined touch, such as the elegantly understated Metal Short Necklace and the delicate Metal Dangler Earrings, which complement both saris and festive kidswear. A rich maroon clutch, crafted with fine texture and durable finish, completes the collection, perfect for carrying pooja essentials and festive keepsakes.

From puja rituals and festive bhog to moments spent celebrating knowledge and creativity, Basant Panchami marks the arrival of spring with reverence and joy.

The Basant Panchami Festive Edit is available at all Fabindia stores and online at www.fabindia.com  

First-Ever Coke Studio Bharat Live Debuts Across Delhi And Guwahati

Coca-Cola marked a landmark moment in India’s cultural journey with the launch of the first-ever Coke Studio Bharat LIVE, taking its celebrated music platform from screen to stage for the very first time. Designed as a large-scale live extension of Coke Studio Bharat, the initiative brought together artists, audiences and communities to celebrate India’s diverse musical voices through shared unforgettable moments, an experience that truly reflected what Only Coke Can Do.

The inaugural edition of Coke Studio Bharat LIVE unfolded across Delhi on January 10 and Guwahati on January 13, with each city offering a distinct expression of the platform’s ethos, rooted in regional authenticity while resonating with a national audience.

Shantanu Gangane, IMX (Integrated Marketing Experience) Lead, Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia said, “Coke Studio Bharat LIVE marked the platform’s first step from screen to stage, culminating in a live setting that brought together music, food and sports. Across Delhi and Guwahati, consumers showed up and created iconic moments beyond just watching a show. From artist collaborations and unreleased song previews to fans joining artists on stage, the two days created genuine connections on ground. The response across both cities reflected how strongly Coke Studio Bharat continues to resonate when experienced collectively.”

Delhi: Where the Live Journey Began

The live journey opened in New Delhi, hosted at NSIC Grounds, Okhla, where Coke Studio Bharat LIVE made its first public, on-ground debut. The experience brought together music lovers for an evening that celebrated Indian sounds shaped by emotion, storytelling and modern interpretation. Performances by Shreya Ghoshal, Aditya Rikhari, Rashmeet Kaur, Divyam and Khwaab transformed the space into an arena that reflected how music today cuts across genres, generations and geographies.

In a moment crafted especially for fans, Aditya Rikhari surprised his fans by previewing an unreleased Coke Studio Bharat track live on stage, offering an exclusive first listen that could only exist in a live setting. The Delhi edition also delivered a powerful show climax as Shreya Ghoshal brought together Rashmeet Kaur, Aditya Rikhari, Divyam and Khwaab for a medley of iconic Coke Studio Bharat tracks. Adding to the experience, a select fan was invited on stage to sing alongside Shreya Ghoshal, turning the concert into a shared celebration beyond a one-way performance.

Guwahati: Spotlighting the Northeast’s Musical Voice

From the capital, the journey moved to Guwahati, where Coke Studio Bharat LIVE took on a powerful regional expression, placing the spotlight firmly on voices from the Northeast. Hosted at the ACA Stadium, Barsapara, the Guwahati edition celebrated the region’s lyrical depth and musical individuality, bringing together artists whose work is deeply rooted in local storytelling.

Performances by Anuv Jain, Shankuraj Konwar, Rito Riba and Anoushka Maskey created an intimate yet expansive atmosphere, where modern sounds met regional soul and audiences connected through shared emotion, reinforcing Coke Studio Bharat LIVE’s commitment to India’s musical diversity. A defining moment followed as all the artists came together on stage for a collective rendition of ‘Arz Kiya Hai’, before inviting select fans on stage and later into an intimate unplugged backstage session. Fans were chosen through social and on-ground engagements, turning genuine fandom into unforgettable live experiences.

Complementing the sports and music experience, Coke Studio Bharat LIVE featured a thoughtfully curated, multi-cuisine food spread with meals-and-Coke pairings turning the venue into a complete cultural and social experience.

Commitment to Responsible Celebrations

Coca-Cola India brought its #MaidaanSaaf initiative to the Coke Studio Bharat LIVE. With staffed recycling stations, trained volunteers and clear on-ground guidance, the initiative enabled structured waste collection and segregation, reinforcing that large-scale public celebrations can be conducted responsibly.

About The Coca‑Cola Company

The Coca‑Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company’s purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes Coca‑Cola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Fuze Tea, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and AdeS. We’re constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.coca-colacompany.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

International Rover Challenge And Space Drone Challenge 2026 To Be Held At Manipal Institute Of Technology, Manipal

Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), Manipal, will host the International Rover Challenge (IRC) 2026 and the International Space Drone Challenge (ISDC) 2026 from January 28th to February 2nd, 2026. Organised by the Space Robotics Society (SPROS), the on-site finals will take place at the MIT campus, bringing together talented student teams in space robotics from across the globe. The MIT campus will be transformed into a simulated Martian environment through a specially designed Mars-analogue terrain called “Sproscape.” On this terrain, student-built rovers and aerial drones will carry out complex missions that closely resemble real-life space exploration tasks and astronaut-support operations on Mars.

Global Participation: After a rigorous multi-stage selection process, top-performing student teams from around the world have qualified for the on-site finals. International teams from Poland and Germany (TU Berlin) will compete alongside leading Indian institutions, including the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), IITs, BITS, VIT, SRM, and MIT. The event positions Manipal as a global hub for innovation and collaboration in space robotics.

Challenging Missions: IRC and ISDC are demanding engineering competitions that test students' ability to design, build, and operate advanced space robotics systems. The missions include:

Reconnaissance & Delivery Operation (R&DO): Rovers navigate difficult terrain to locate targets and deliver payloads.

Astrobiology Expedition (ABEx): Rovers collect soil samples and analyse them to detect possible biosignatures.

Instrument Deployment & Maintenance Operation (IDMO): Rovers perform precision tasks on mock instrument panels, simulating servicing and maintenance work.

Autonomous Mission: Rovers traverse unstructured terrain independently without human intervention.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr (Cdr) Anil Rana, Director, MIT Manipal, said: “Hosting the International Rover Challenge and the International Space Drone Challenge reflects MIT’s commitment to hands-on, future-focused engineering education. These competitions provide students with a unique opportunity to apply classroom learning to real-world space exploration challenges, while also developing teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills that are essential for careers in advanced technology sectors.”

MIT Manipal’s Leadership in Space Robotics: MIT Manipal, a constituent unit of the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), has a strong legacy in engineering education and innovation. Its student team, Mars Rover Manipal, has won the International Rover Challenge in 2024 and 2025, establishing itself as a leading force in space robotics. As the host team, they will defend their title on home ground against a strong international field.

Learning Beyond Competition: Beyond technical excellence, IRC and ISDC offer students valuable industry-relevant exposure. By closely simulating the expectations of the space and robotics industries, the competitions help bridge the gap between academic learning and practical application. Participants are evaluated not only on engineering performance but also on planning, project management, collaboration, and decision-making skills.

To learn more, please visit https://roverchallenge.org/

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE):

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University, offering over 400 specialisations across Health Sciences, Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences, and Technology & Science. MAHE operates through its constituent institutions across campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai.

Renowned for its academic excellence, world-class infrastructure, and impactful research contributions, MAHE has earned strong national and international recognition. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, conferred the prestigious Institution of Eminence status on MAHE. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE continues to be a preferred destination for students seeking a transformative learning experience and vibrant campus life, as well as for national and multinational organisations in search of top talent.

Manipal Academy Of Higher Education Bags CII Award On Excellence For Women In STEM For The Consecutive Year

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, has been conferred the prestigious CII Award on Excellence for Women in STEM 2025 for the second consecutive year, reaffirming its sustained commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The award was presented by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) during the CII Annual Summit, held recently in New Delhi. The recognition highlights MAHE’s robust institutional frameworks, targeted mentorship initiatives, and an enabling academic and research ecosystem that supports the growth, leadership, and success of women researchers, faculty members, and innovators in STEM disciplines.

The award was received on behalf of the University by Dr. Chandrakala C. B., Joint Director, Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), Manipal, and Dr. Prema K. V., Joint Director, MIT Bengaluru. The presentation was made by eminent dignitaries, including Dr. Ashish Mohan, Executive Director, CII; Dr. Vaishali Nigam Sinha, Chair, CII Women in STEM Initiatives and Co-founder of ReNew and Chairperson of Sustainability; Ms. Inge Buffolo, Director, European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO); and Dr. Chandrika Kaushik, Distinguished Scientist and Director General of Production Coordination and Services Interaction, DRDO, Government of India.

Highlighting the achievement, Dr. Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor, Technology & Science, MAHE, said: “This recognition by CII for the second consecutive year is a strong validation of MAHE’s long-term and deeply embedded commitment to fostering gender equity in STEM. We believe that excellence in science and technology is inseparable from inclusion and diversity. Through focused policy interventions, mentorship programmes, and leadership opportunities, MAHE continues to empower women to thrive as researchers, innovators, and academic leaders, contributing meaningfully to national and global STEM ecosystems.”

Dr. Christopher Sudhakar, Director, Quality, MAHE, added: “The CII Award on Excellence for Women in STEM reflects the strength of MAHE’s quality-driven institutional culture, where inclusivity is integrated into academic governance, research practices, and performance frameworks. Our emphasis on structured support systems, transparent processes, and outcome-oriented initiatives ensures that women in STEM are not only encouraged to participate but are enabled to excel and lead. This recognition reinforces our resolve to continuously raise benchmarks in equity and institutional excellence.”

This honour underscores MAHE’s focus on building a resilient, future-ready STEM workforce by nurturing talent across genders and promoting equitable access to opportunities in education, research, and innovation.

Kotak Rings In 30 Years On The NSE Marking India’s Rise As A Robust Financial Market

Kotak Mahindra Bank marked 30 years of being listed on the National Stock Exchange with a bell‑ringing ceremony that celebrated the Bank’s journey alongside India’s rise as a strong, trusted and modern financial market. What began as a small NBFC in the 1980s has grown into one of India’s most respected financial institutions moving in step with the country’s deepening financial system.

Kotak’s evolution from structured finance to a diversified financial services conglomerate reflects India’s shift towards stronger capital markets, wider access to formal finance and the rapid adoption of digital public infrastructure. Over three decades, the Bank has grown by strengthening customer trust, enabling access and contributing to the increasing stability and transparency of India’s financial landscape.

Today, Kotak has a market capitalisation of approximately ₹4.2 trillion; consolidated customer assets of ₹576,339 crore as of September 30, 2025; and reported a consolidated profit after tax of ₹22,126 crore for FY25. The Bank’s scale and consistency mirror the growing resilience and maturity of India’s financial markets.

Ashok Vaswani, Kotak’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, said the milestone highlights Kotak’s commitment to India’s financial future. “Our 30 years on the NSE reflect a shared journey with India as the nation built stronger and more trusted financial markets. Kotak has grown by earning the confidence of millions of customers and by widening access to financial solutions. As India moves into its next phase of growth, our focus on getting it right by the customer remains core to who we are.”

Ashishkumar Chauhan, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of the National Stock Exchange of India, commented:

“Thirty years of Kotak’s listing reflects the remarkable progress of India’s capital markets. Over these decades, our markets have grown deeper, more transparent and technologically advanced, enabling wider participation and reinforcing investor confidence. This milestone reflects the resilience and maturity that defines India’s financial ecosystem.”

The anniversary was commemorated with a ceremony at the NSE reinforcing Kotak’s long‑term commitment to India’s markets and its role in powering the country’s economic ambition.

BharathCloud Appoints JLL As Advisory Partner For USD 100 Million AI-Ready Sovereign Cloud Investment

BharathCloud has appointed JLL as an advisory partner to facilitate build of AI-ready sovereign cloud infrastructure across major cities in India and select international locations.

BharathCloud intends to invest up to USD 100 million over the next five years, subject to board approvals, financing arrangements, regulatory clearances, and prevailing market conditions. As part of this arrangement, JLL will serve as exclusive advisory partner, supporting BharathCloud in colocation site identification, design consultancy, and portfolio optimization. Together, the companies aim to deliver world-class edge cloud infrastructure in cities such as Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi NCR, Kolkata, and Pune, as well as Tier-II and Tier-III locations including Vizag, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Coimbatore, Kochi, Chandigarh, and Bhopal.

As India accelerates its 5G, IoT, and AI-ready cloud infrastructure to enable digital governance and private sector collaboration, BharathCloud is taking significant strides. Building on its previous partnership with DE-CIX India, a leading global interconnection platform, BharathCloud is now strengthening its alliance with JLL for cloud centre development. This collaboration aims to establish a robust distributed cloud ecosystem, positioning BharathCloud as a key orchestrator enabling seamless integration of AI, IoT, and 5G technologies for enterprise edge computing.

This strategic move marks the creation of a fully functional Digital Triangle in India for the first time, unlocking unprecedented value. By integrating DE-CIX’s globally recognized interconnection ecosystem with BharathCloud's secure, sovereign cloud infrastructure, this alliance empowers businesses to scale efficiently while actively shaping the future of digital connectivity in India.

Padma Reddy Sama, Co-Founder, BharathCloud, said, “This strategic partnership with JLL is a key milestone in advancing India-first, enterprise-grade AI cloud infrastructure. Together, we will roll out sovereign, AI-powered cloud centres starting with at least two in every metro and expanding into Tier-II and Tier-III cities while ensuring top-tier security, scalability, operational efficiency, and compliance with India’s data sovereignty requirements.”

Rachit Mohan, APAC Lead – Data Centre Colocation Leasing, JLL, said: “The cloud centre market is experiencing a boost as India's data centre landscape, with capacity set to surge from 1.25 GW in 2025 to an impressive 10.5 GW by 2035—an eightfold increase in just one decade. The convergence of AI infrastructure buildouts, cloud market expansion, 5G deployment, and government-led digital initiatives is creating a perfect storm of opportunity, establishing India not just as a regional powerhouse but as a critical hub in the global cloud centre ecosystem where scalable and sustainable infrastructure development is redefining the digital economy.”

BharathCloud aims to deliver enterprise-ready solutions that are compliant, resilient, and sustainable, with a strong focus on renewable energy, green building standards, and ESG-aligned operations.

India's booming data centre market

India’s data centre industry is experiencing explosive growth. India's data centre capacity is projected to grow 8x over the next decade. We expect capacity to quadruple in the next five years and then double again. This incredible expansion will require an estimated USD 50 billion in new investment over the next ten years. The large-scale investments announced for creating AI data centres for training and inference workloads have driven the growth prospects of the data centre industry to a new high.

The numbers tell the story: data centre capacity will quadruple from 1,250 MW as of 2025 to 10,500 MW by 2035. This massive growth is driven by cloud computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and 5G infrastructure demands.

Yuma Energy And e-Sprinto Announce Partnership To Deploy Swappable-Battery EVs Across India

The future of electric mobility isn’t just about building vehicles - it’s about building the ecosystem that helps them thrive. Together, Yuma Energy and e-Sprinto have entered into a partnership setting out to do just that, as the two companies announced today that they intend to deploy swappable-battery electric two-wheelers at scale, a bold step set to supercharge fleet electrification across India’s cities.

Addressing Cost and Charging Barriers

Battery costs account for up to 40% of an electric vehicle’s price, creating a significant barrier for fleet operators. Through Yuma’s BaaS model, batteries are decoupled from the vehicle, allowing businesses to pay only for the energy they use. This approach reduces upfront costs, converts capital expenditure into operating expenditure, and enables fleets to scale efficiently.

"By combining e-Sprinto’s reliable vehicles with Yuma’s widespread swapping network, we’re removing cost and convenience barriers for fleets and enabling businesses to electrify faster than ever before," said Deepak Nanwani, Head of Revenue and Operations, Yuma Energy.

Reliable Energy Access for Fleets

Yuma operates more than 2,000 battery-swapping stations across 400+ locations in 17 cities, with rapid expansion underway. The network ensures quick and predictable energy access, allowing riders to swap a depleted battery for a charged one in under two minutes—minimizing downtime and maximizing fleet productivity.

“This partnership reflects our expanding portfolio of OEM platforms powered by Yuma’s BaaS network, delivering an industry-leading experience for customers,” added Muthu Subramanian, GM & MD, Yuma Energy.

e-Sprinto: Purpose-Built for Indian Roads

e-Sprinto’s electric two-wheelers are engineered for high performance and durability, featuring extended range, low maintenance, and smart IoT integrations. Designed for delivery fleets and gig riders, these vehicles offer reliability for demanding urban operations.

“This partnership with Yuma Energy marks an important milestone in e-Sprinto’s journey to make electric mobility more accessible and viable for large-scale fleet operations,” said Ms. Shalu Gupta, Co-Founder & Director, e-Sprinto. “By combining our high-performance, fleet-ready electric scooters with Yuma’s robust battery-swapping ecosystem, we are addressing two of the biggest challenges in EV adoption—cost and charging downtime. Together, we are enabling fleets to scale faster while driving India’s transition toward a cleaner and more sustainable mobility future.”

Twisted Classics Take Centre Stage At The Blue Bar, Taj West End

Step into the art of cocktails with a Bengaluru-inspired twist at The Blue Bar, Taj West End, Bengaluru, as it presents Twisted Classic Cocktail Week — a four-night celebration where iconic cocktails are reimagined through the lens of local flavours and modern mixology. From 21st to 24th January 2026, nostalgia meets innovation as each drink balances the soul of a classic with a distinctly South Indian accent.

The experience celebrates timeless cocktail classics, Old Fashioned, Negroni, Martini, Gimlet, Whiskey Sour, and Paloma reinterpreted with regional ingredients drawn from Karnataka and the South, including filter coffee, nannari, kokum, curry leaf, coconut, jaggery, and pepper. Across four evenings, one iconic cocktail takes centre stage each night, allowing bartender creativity to shine as every serve tells a story of tradition meeting contemporary craft. Rooted in Bengaluru’s vibrant food culture, the menu draws inspiration from local markets, neighbourhood cafés, and home-grown flavours.

True to the structure and spirit of the originals, every cocktail introduces a regional nuance while championing local produce and craftsmanship — a limited-edition experience that blends culture, memory, and flavour in every glass.

Cocktail Highlights include:

· Mysore Old Fashioned — Bourbon or Indian whisky with jaggery syrup, aromatic bitters, orange peel, and toasted coconut

· Filter Coffee Negroni — Gin, sweet vermouth, coffee-infused Campari, and cold-brew filter coffee essence

· Curry Leaf Gimlet — Gin, fresh lime, light sugar, and curry leaf cordial

· Nannari Sour — Whiskey, nannari syrup, lemon, and aquafaba

· Kokum Paloma — Tequila with kokum syrup, grapefruit soda, and a salt-chilli rim

· Peppercorn Martini — Vodka or gin infused with cracked black pepper and dry vermouth

Event Details:

Dates: 21–24 January 2026
Venue: The Blue Bar, Taj West End, Bengaluru
Pricing: Limited-time menu; prices as per menu
Reservations: 080 6660 5660

Axis Bank Engaged Over 995 Schools Across India To Host SPLASH 2025 — Its Annual Art, Craft, And Literature Competition

Axis Bank, one of the largest private sector banks in India, successfully hosted SPLASH 2025, the 13th edition of its annual art, craft and literature competition, engaging students from over 995 schools across the country. Inspired by Axis Bank’s brand philosophy - dil se open, this year’s edition witnessed enthusiastic participation from more than 2.66 lakh students on the theme ‘Dreams’, encouraging these young minds to unleash their imagination and creativity.

In the southern region, the Bank conducted the competition across 308 schools in Hyderabad, Bangalore, Guntur, Bagalkot, Vishakhapatnam, Cuddapah, and Nellore to name a few. Over 1.01 lakh students participated, submitting entries under two sub-themes: ‘A Day in My Dream Life’ for the 7-10 years age group, and ‘The Future as I Dream It’ for those aged 11-14 years.

Aligned with the theme, Axis Bank also launched the ‘AI Dream Generator’, an interactive digital tool designed to help children bring their dreams to life. From flying cars and talking animals to building cities on the moon, children can enter their dreams and choose their favourite medium—art, craft, or literature—to see their imagination come to life.

The competition will culminate with six national winners and six national runners-up, who will be awarded ₹1 lakh and ₹50,000 each, respectively. They will also have the opportunity to attend a special Art and Craft Workshop at Tashkeel, Dubai. The artwork of these winners will be showcased at the Museum of Art and Photography (MAP), Bengaluru. Additionally, the top 400 qualifiers will receive exciting goodies and vouchers from partner brands like Ixigo and American Tourister.

About Axis Bank:

Axis Bank is one of the largest private sector banks in India. Axis Bank offers the entire spectrum of services to customer segments covering Large and Mid-Corporates, SME, Agriculture, and Retail Businesses. It has 5,976 domestic branches (including extension counters) and 13,177 ATMs and cash recyclers spread across the country as on 30th September 2025. The Bank’s Axis Virtual Centre is present across eight centres with over ~1,786 Virtual Relationship Managers as on 30th September 2025. The Axis Group includes Axis Mutual Fund, Axis Securities Ltd., Axis Finance, Axis Trustee, Axis Capital, A.TReDS Ltd., Freecharge, Axis Pension Fund and Axis Bank Foundation.

For further information on Axis Bank, refer to the website: https://www.axisbank.com

Ammann India’s Asphalt Technology Supports Rajpath Infracon’s Guinness World Record Attempt For NH-544G

• Three Ammann asphalt plants delivered 25095 tons, laying 42 Km & 156 lane kilometers by producing continuous 120 Hrs. of Asphalt.

• The effort involved 20 personnel, 95% percent plant uptime.

Ammann India, a global leader in asphalt mixing and road construction technology, announced the successful deployment of its advanced asphalt plants in a Guinness World Record–winning highway construction effort executed by Rajpath Infracon Private Limited on National Highway 544G.

Rajpath Infracon was officially awarded the Guinness World Records certificate on 12 January 2026 for achieving the highest asphalt laying output and the longest expressway stretch constructed within a 24-hours & 130 Hrs. period. The attempt was conducted between 5th and 11th January 2026 near Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh. Ammann’s role in the milestone lay in enabling the record-breaking execution through high-capacity, reliable, and sustainable asphalt production technology, exemplifying how strong collaboration between an experienced EPC contractor and a technology partner can translate ambition into on-ground execution in terms of scale and speed.

Three Ammann asphalt plants were deployed to support continuous operations, ensuring high volume production, consistent mix quality, and operational reliability under intensive execution timelines. Collectively, the plants delivered a peak production capacity of 300 tons per hour and enabled the laying of 25095 tons of asphalt across 42 kilometers, translating into 156 lane kilometers in 5 days and earlier 28.8 Km. within 24 hours. The operation was supported by 95% percent plant uptime and a workforce of over 20 personnel. Importantly underscoring Ammann’s commitment to environmentally responsible road construction without compromising performance or speed.

Commenting on this achievement, Mr. Dheeraj Panda, Managing Director, Ammann India, said, “At Ammann India, it has been our goal to support the national infrastructure goals with world class technology that showcases that sustainability and productivity can go hand in hand. This attempt demonstrates how investments in advanced road construction technology can be utilised efficiently to deliver scale, speed, and quality, while also addressing sustainability considerations in large infrastructure projects. We extend our heartfelt wishes to Rajpath Infracon for this Guinness World Record and are proud to be partners in this feat. ”

Mr. Jagdish Kadam, Founder, Chairman, and Managing Director, Rajpath Infracon Private Limited, said, "The quantity of bituminous concrete required for this project was over 57,000 metric tonnes-a substantial volume that posed a critical challenge. This demanded an aggressive and highly coordinated delivery strategy. Beyond supplying Ammann hot mix plants, the Ammann team provided round-the-clock onsite support and ensured ready availability of spares, enabling uninterrupted, continuous production. We sincerely appreciate the commitment and technical reliability of the Ammann team which were instrumental in successfully achieving this milestone.” He added that, “This achievement reflects the industry’s capability to execute complex highway projects within compressed timelines and sets a new benchmark for expressway construction in India. Partners like Ammann India, along with strong support infrastructure, played a critical role in enabling us to meet the required timelines and quality benchmarks.”

The NH-544G milestone follows a similar deployment of Ammann's ValueTec asphalt plants in May 2025 where Ammann and Patel Infrastructure created an engineering record by laying 34.24 lane kilometers of bituminous concrete in 24 hours.

This latest achievement reinforces the role of advanced construction technologies in accelerating the delivery of high impact national infrastructure projects.

About Ammann India

Ammann India Private Limited, a subsidiary of the Swiss-based Ammann Group, is a leading manufacturer of advanced construction equipment. The company, headquartered in Ditasan, Mehsana District, Gujarat, offers compaction equipment, high-performance asphalt and concrete mixing facilities, and pavers that are specifically designed to meet India's infrastructure requirements.

Ammann India incorporates state-of-the-art road construction equipment to improve efficiency and environmental responsibility with an emphasis on innovation and sustainability. Its equipment ensures dependability and longevity while supporting large infrastructure projects, including highways, roads, and airports.

To increase equipment uptime, the company also provides robust aftermarket support, which includes maintenance, training, and spare parts. Ammann India's dedication to domestic production and support of national infrastructure projects strengthens its position as a reliable partner in the nation's building industry.

Titan Launches Runway At Mall Of Asia With Its Largest Assortment Of Luxury Sunglasses, Eyes 20 Stores In India By FY27

Runway, the premium sunglasses destination from the House of Titan, has launched its store at Mall of Asia, Yelahanka. One of only eight Runway stores pan-India now, the new store reinforces Titan’s focus on curated luxury and global fashion. The store was unveiled by C K Venkataraman, Managing Director, Titan Company Limited, in the presence of Raghavan N S, CEO – Eyecare Division.

Designed as an elevated retail experience, the new Runway store brings together 20+ leading international luxury sunglasses brands, offering customers access to global fashion right here in India. The store showcases an exclusive portfolio featuring iconic names such as Cartier, Gucci, Prada, Cutler & Gross, Miu Miu, Yves Saint Laurent, Persol sunglasses, alongside other internationally acclaimed luxury labels.

“Indian consumers are becoming increasingly discerning, seeking not just choice but thoughtfully curated experiences. Runway from the House of Titan, a premium sunglasses destination, responds to this shift through a focused retail format that brings together over 20 international brands, offering one of the largest assortments of sunglasses under one roof. With 20 Runway stores expected to be operational by FY27, the launch of Runway at Mall of Asia marks a deliberate step in strengthening our global luxury portfolio and shaping the next phase of sunglasses retail in India” said Raghavan N S, CEO – Eyecare Division, Titan Company Limited.

Runway has been thoughtfully designed to deliver an immersive shopping experience, blending refined aesthetics with personalised service. Customers are guided by trained sunglasses experts who offer styling advice, ensuring each visit is tailored and memorable. Every detail of the space reflects Runway’s commitment to luxury, craftsmanship, and contemporary design.

With this launch, Runway strengthens its position as a destination for discerning consumers seeking premium sunglasses that combines international fashion, exclusivity, and expert guidance, all under one roof.

Samsung Innovation Campus Certifies 1,750 Youth In Future-Tech Skills In Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh emerges as the fastest growing state under Samsung Innovation Campus with 3,900 students certified, across the state

Samsung aims to train 5,000 youth in Uttar Pradesh under Samsung Innovation Campus

The programme empowers youth with training in AI, IoT, Big Data and Coding and soft skills to improve employability

Samsung, India's largest consumer electronics brand, on the occasion of National Youth Day, announced the certification of 1,750 students in Uttar Pradesh under its flagship Samsung Innovation Campus (SIC) programme, marking a significant milestone in the company’s youth-skilling efforts in the state.

\The certification ceremony was held at the City Group of Institutions in Lucknow, in the presence of Smt. Rajni Tiwari, Hon’ble Minister of Higher Education, Government of Uttar Pradesh, along with academic leaders and programme partners.

With this cohort, the total number of students trained under Samsung Innovation Campus in Uttar Pradesh has reached 3,900, making it one of the fastest-growing states under the programme. Samsung announced its intent to skill 5,000 youth in Uttar Pradesh, as part of its broader national target of upskilling 20,000 students, a six-fold increase over the previous year. The programme is currently operational across 10 states.

Under the Lucknow initiative, students received industry-aligned training in emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (950 students), Coding & Programming (550 students), Big Data (150 students), and Internet of Things (100 students).

“At Samsung, our firm belief is that the future of India will be defined by its youth. Samsung Innovation Campus is designed to bridge the gap between education and industry by providing hands-on training in future-tech courses such as AI, IoT, or Big Data and Coding. The certification of 1,750 students in Lucknow underscores our commitment to support the Government of India’s skilling vision and empower young learners across Uttar Pradesh with industry-relevant capabilities. Samsung Innovation Campus is our flagship programme designed to empower the next generation and make them job-ready for the fourth Industrial revolution”, said Shubham Mukherjee, Head, CSR & Corporate Communications at Samsung Southwest Asia.

“As higher education evolves, it is essential that learning outcomes remain aligned with emerging economic and technological needs. Samsung Innovation Campus adds significant value by exposing students to advanced digital disciplines and experiential learning. Such collaborations strengthen our institutions and help create a knowledge-driven, competitive workforce for Uttar Pradesh. I commend Samsung’s commitment to empowering our youth and supporting the state’s vision of building a future-ready, skilled workforce. Our young people are the foundation of Uttar Pradesh’s progress and the driving force behind India’s growth story”, said Smt. Rajni Tiwari, Hon’ble Minister of Higher Education, Government of Uttar Pradesh.

Launched in India in 2022, Samsung Innovation Campus focuses on expanding access to future-tech education, particularly in underserved and semi-urban regions. The programme is implemented in collaboration with the Electronics Sector Skills Council of India (ESSCI) through accredited training partners.

Nationally, the programme has recorded 44% women participation, underscoring Samsung’s focus on inclusive and equitable skilling. In addition to technical training, students receive soft-skills inputs and placement support to improve workplace readiness.

Together with initiatives such as Samsung Solve for Tomorrow and Samsung DOST, Samsung Innovation Campus reflects the company’s long-term commitment to strengthening and expanding India’s digital skilling goals.

Samsung Newsroom India: https://news.samsung.com/in/samsung-innovation-campus-certifies-1750-youth-in-future-tech-skills-in-uttar-pradesh

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, digital signage, smartphones, wearables, tablets, home appliances and network systems, as well as memory, system LSI and foundry. Samsung is also advancing medical imaging technologies, HVAC solutions and robotics, while creating innovative automotive and audio products through Harman. With its SmartThings ecosystem, open collaboration with partners, and integration of AI across its portfolio, Samsung delivers a seamless and intelligent connected experience. For the latest news, visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com/in/