Monday, February 2, 2026

Marriott Hotels Brings Its Wonderful Hospitality To Delhi NCR With The Opening Of Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa


A 158-room urban retreat combining premier celebration venues, wellness experiences, and signature dining set against the Aravali landscape

Marriott Hotels, the namesake brand of Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of over 30 hotel brands, today announced opening of Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa, Delhi NCR. Nestled within the timeless Aravali range, the resort offers a nature-led escape close to the capital, thoughtfully designed for discerning travellers, destination celebrations, corporate offsites and immersive stay experiences. This opening marks Marriott Hotels’ continued expansion in North India and reinforces the brand’s commitment to delivering world-class hospitality in key urban and leisure markets.

Strategically located within easy driving distance of Delhi NCR and Faridabad, the resort offers a convenient yet immersive escape from the city. The resort’s free-flowing layout and contemporary architecture are anchored around a signature two-tier pool, which serves as both a visual and social space. Open-air walkways, expansive green zones and meticulously landscaped gardens create a sense of openness and connection to nature, while interiors are defined by natural light, and refined finishes. From the light-filled grand lobby to thoughtfully planned communal spaces, the design balances modern sophistication with the ease of resort living. Owned by Chalet Hotels, the resort strengthens the company’s growing portfolio of luxury and upscale hospitality destinations across India.

Commenting on the opening, Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President – South Asia, Marriott International, said, “Delhi NCR has evolved into one of India’s most dynamic markets for destination weddings, short-break travel, and experience-led staycations, with travelers actively seeking resort environments that offer scale, accessibility, and a strong sense of place. Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa, Delhi NCR is strategically positioned to address this demand, offering an urban resort close to the capital. This opening reinforces our commitment to strengthening Marriott Hotels’ footprint in high-growth urban-adjacent markets, while delivering versatile resort experiences that seamlessly cater to celebrations, leisure travel, and corporate gatherings.”

The resort features 158 rooms, villas and suites, offering a diverse range of accommodation designed to meet the needs of leisure travelers, families, and groups. Each room is thoughtfully designed to deliver comfort, functionality, and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. All accommodation comes with private balconies or patios with views of the resort’s pool, landscaped gardens, or the Aravali surroundings. Modern interiors, generous layouts, and resort-style design elements come together to create a relaxed and well-appointed stay experience.

The resort offers a thoughtfully curated dining portfolio delivering a unique culinary experience against the lush backdrop of the dramatic Aravalis. Aravali Kitchen, the all-day dining restaurant, showcases regional Indian flavours and international favourites through live cooking stations and a vibrant, market-inspired setting. Huang brings authentic Pan-Asian cuisine to the resort, with a dynamic street-market style layout and an interactive live station concept. Glaze transitions seamlessly from a daytime café serving artisanal coffees and teas to an evening lounge offering crafted beverages. Completing the experience, Olive Grove Poolside Bar provides a relaxed, open-air setting for handcrafted cocktails and light bites, set against lush surroundings by the pool.

The resort is home to a full-service spa, offering a range of invigorating therapies and treatments alongside sauna facilities, designed to support complete relaxation. Complementing the spa is a fully equipped fitness centre, enabling guests to maintain their fitness routines within a tranquil environment.

Enhancing the social and recreational offering is the resort’s Club House, a contemporary hub designed to encourage connection through shared experiences. Featuring informal gathering zones and leisure spaces, it serves as a central venue for families, groups, and corporate offsites. For younger guests, Giggles Kids Club - a dedicated, supervised space offers age-appropriate activities that blend creativity, play, and engagement, ensuring a well-rounded family-friendly stay.

The resort is also positioned as a premier destination for weddings, celebrations, and corporate events in the Delhi NCR region. With over 20,000 square feet of versatile banqueting and outdoor event spaces across five venues, including expansive lawns and refined indoor settings, the resort offers flexible backdrops for large-scale weddings, social celebrations, and business gatherings, supported by seamless service and resort-style infrastructure.

Anuj Chaudhry, General Manager, Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa, Delhi NCR, added, “This opening represents the coming together of scale, setting, and service to create a resort experience that feels both accessible and immersive. From the design of our rooms and public spaces to our wellness, dining, and celebration offerings, every element has been carefully planned to deliver comfort, ease, and enriching experiences for our guests. We look forward to welcoming travellers, families, and groups to experience the Wonderful Hospitality our brand is known for, in a resort setting that is deeply connected to its natural surroundings.”

For reservations and inquiries, please visit: www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/delar-aravali-marriott-resort-and-spa-delhi-ncr/overview/

Air India’s First Line-Fit B787-9 Takes Off For Frankfurt, Delhi-Shanghai Flights Resume After Six Years


· First made-for-Air India B787-9 takes off for Frankfurt from Mumbai

· Air India’s Delhi-Shanghai flights resume today, boosting India-China connectivity

Air India marked two landmark developments in its continued effort to expand its international network and upgrade passenger experience. The first made-for-Air India B787-9, featuring custom-styled interiors, entered commercial operations today from Mumbai to Frankfurt, while simultaneously, Air India resumed its non-stop services between Delhi and Shanghai after nearly six years.

The Delhi-Shanghai flight (AI352) departed Indira Gandhi International Airport at 1207 hrs IST, reconnecting the Indian capital city with one of Asia's premier business and cultural hubs. This 4x weekly service, operated with a Boeing 787-8 aircraft, restores Air India's direct access to mainland China and supports growing demand from business travellers, families, and tourists.

Parallelly, Air India's recently inducted B787-9 (registered VT-AWA) operating as AI2027 departed Mumbai at 1237 hrs IST operating to Frankfurt. This deployment marks the debut of Air India's completely redesigned cabin interiors, unveiled on 27 January 2026, which set a new standard for passenger comfort and will be rolled out across the airline's entire B787 fleet.

The new Boeing 787-9 features 30 Business Class suites in a spacious 1-2-1 layout, each offering direct aisle access, fully flat beds up to 79 inches long with a generous 42-inch pitch, wireless charging, large 17-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreens and ample storage. Premium Economy, as a dedicated, upscale cabin, offers 28 wide seats with generous legroom in a 2-3-2 layout, providing a 38-inch pitch, enhanced recline, adjustable calf and leg rests, 13.3-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreens, and more. Economy Class comprises 238 ergonomic seats, equipped with 11.6-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreens and improved overall comfort tailored for long-haul flights. All three cabins feature Thales AVANT Up in-flight entertainment with high-definition touchscreens, Type A and C charging ports, new mood lighting inspired by ancient Indian wellness traditions, Bluetooth headphone connectivity, and bespoke design touches.

SCHEDULE OF FLIGHTS BETWEEN DELHI (DEL) AND SHANGHAI (PVG)

FLIGHT #

CITY PAIR

DEPARTURE

ARRIVAL

AI352

Delhi-Shanghai

1200 Hrs

2020 Hrs

AI351

Shanghai-Delhi

2200 Hrs

0315 Hrs+1

SCHEDULE OF FLIGHTS BETWEEN MUMBAI (BOM) AND FRANKFURT (FRA)

FLIGHT #

CITY PAIR

DEPARTURE

ARRIVAL

AI2027

Mumbai-Frankfurt

1235 Hrs

1730 Hrs

AI2028

Frankfurt-Mumbai

2020 Hrs

0900 Hrs+1

All times are indicated in local time zones. +1indicates next day arrival. 

 

Air India’s flights between Delhi-Shanghai and Mumbai-Frankfurt remain available for booking across all channels, including Air India’s website, mobile app, airport ticketing offices, contact centres, and through travel agents worldwide.

About Air India group

The Air India group – comprising of full-service global airline, Air India, and value carrier, Air India Express – is spearheading a new era of Indian aviation. The Air India story began in 1932 when JRD Tata piloted the airline’s inaugural flight and opened the skies for aviation in India. Today, Air India group employs more than 30,000 people, operates over 300 aircraft and carries customers to 57 domestic and 49 international destinations across five continents.

Returning to the Tata Sons in 2022 following 70 years under Government ownership, Air India group is in the midst of a five-year transformation program, Vihaan.AI. As part of the transformation, Air India has placed an order for 570 new aircraft. In 2024, sister airlines Air Asia India and Vistara were successfully merged into Air India Express and Air India, respectively, and the Airline opened South Asia’s largest aviation training academy. A new flying school is scheduled to open in 2026, and construction of a greenfield maintenance base, to be operational in 2026, is underway. In addition to receiving new aircraft, all existing aircraft are progressively undergoing a full interior refit.

With transformation underway across all facets of the business and India’s rich legacy of hospitality, Air India is committed to being a world class global airline with an Indian heart.

For more stories on Air India, visit http://www.airindia.com/newsroom

Manipal Marathon 2026 Sets The Stage For A 20,000 Strong Movement Advocating Sustainability


Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, is all set to host the 8th edition of the Manipal Marathon on Sunday, 08 February 2026, from 5:00 a.m. onwards at KMC Greens, Manipal. Recognised as one of India’s largest student-organised community fitness events, Manipal Marathon 2026 is expected to bring together over 20,000 runners, including 100+ international athletes, competing for a prize pool exceeding ₹25 lakhs.

Anchored in the theme “Miles for a Greener Tomorrow” with the inspiring call to “Run for a Sustainable Future,” this year’s marathon reinforces MAHE’s commitment to environmental stewardship, inclusive fitness, and community well-being. The event aligns with MAHE’s ongoing sustainability initiatives, such as tree plantation, biodiversity conservation, solar energy utilisation, waste management, rainwater harvesting, and sustainable mobility, extending their impact beyond campus into the larger community.

The marathon will feature five race categories: 42K Full Marathon, 21K Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and the 3K Fun Run, welcoming elite athletes, amateur runners, students, and fitness enthusiasts across age groups. Participation is expected from across India, alongside a strong international contingent representing Dubai, England, Ethiopia, Germany, Japan, Kenya, Malaysia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the USA, further strengthening the event's global profile.

Race day will commence with the 42K Full Marathon at 5:00 a.m., followed by the 21K Half Marathon at 5:30 a.m., 10K at 6:00 a.m., 5K at 6:20 a.m., and the 3K Fun Run at 7:30 a.m. The Special Category races for differently abled participants will be flagged off at 8:30 a.m.

Adding to the competitive excitement, Manipal Marathon 2026 offers attractive cash prizes for the fastest finishers across categories. In the 42K Full Marathon, the top three finishers will be awarded ₹1,00,000 for first place, ₹75,000 for second place, and ₹50,000 for third place. The 21K Half Marathon will reward ₹50,000, ₹30,000, and ₹20,000 for first, second, and third place, respectively. Winners of the 10K run will receive ₹20,000 for first place, ₹15,000 for second place, and ₹10,000 for third place, while the 5K run will carry prizes of ₹10,000, ₹7,000, and ₹5,000 for the top three finishers, further elevating the competitive stature of the event.

A signature highlight of the Manipal Marathon remains its scenic beachside route for the 42K, offering runners a unique and memorable racing experience. Notably, the 10K route has been newly introduced to include the Manipal Hospice Respite Centre (MHRC), Manipal, reinforcing the marathon’s growing focus on social impact and community awareness.

The Manipal Hospice Respite Centre (MHRC) is a pioneering initiative integrating advanced palliative care with education and research. Envisioned as India’s only hospice attached to both a medical college and a tertiary care hospital, it serves patients with cancer and non-cancer conditions while training future palliative care professionals, making it a meaningful addition to the marathon route.

In keeping with MAHE’s commitment to equity and inclusivity, Manipal Marathon 2026 will feature dedicated categories for differently abled and visually challenged runners, along with age-wise classifications. A strong volunteer force and medical support teams will be deployed throughout the course to ensure safety, assistance, and an empowering experience for all participants.

The event will culminate in a vibrant post-run carnival at KMC Greens, featuring music, cultural performances, interactive fitness zones, and diverse food stalls, creating a festive atmosphere for runners, families, and spectators alike.

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, places on record its sincere appreciation for the invaluable support and cooperation extended by the District Administration, including the offices of the Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police, Municipal Administration, and the Panchayat. Their coordinated efforts were instrumental in ensuring the smooth and successful conduct of this mega event.

Title & Partners:

ICICI Bank proudly supports the Manipal Marathon 2026 as the Title Sponsor, with UNext, Deloitte, and Bank of Baroda (Credit Card Division) joining as valued organisation partners, strengthening the event’s vision of sustainability, fitness, and community engagement.

Bib Expo Details:

Participants can collect their race bibs and race kits at the Bib Expo, scheduled on 06 and 07 February 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at KMC Greens, Manipal. The expo will also feature partner showcases and essential pre-race information to ensure a smooth and well-prepared race-day experience for all runners.

For registration, click the link below:

https://manipalmarathon.in/

UPL Limited Records Strong Q3 And 9MFY26 Financial Results

UPL Delivers Yet Another Strong Quarter; Momentum Sustained Through Broad-based EBITDA Growth (+13%) and Financial Discipline, Leading to an Improved PBT by 90% and Operational PATMI by 45%; FY26 Guidance On-track.

 

Exhibit 1: UPL Limited: Financial Highlights

Q3FY26

Revenue

₹12,269 cr
12% YoY

Contribution

₹5,227 cr 17% YoY

Margin: 42.6% | 160 bps

EBITDA

₹2,434 cr 13% YoY

Margin: 19.8% | flat

9MFY26

Revenue

₹33,504 cr
8% YoY

Contribution

₹14,268 cr 17% YoY

Margin: 42.6% | 320 bps

EBITDA

₹5,941 cr 22% YoY

Margin:17.7% | 200 bps

Net Debt

₹23,317 cr ($2,594 Mn)

₹2,553 cr      ($427 Mn)

vs. Dec’24

Net Debt/ EBITDA

2.5x vs. 3.8x Dec’24

Net Debt/ Equity

0.6x vs. 0.8x Dec’24

Net Working Capital

116 Days

9 Days vs. Dec’24


Q3 Highlights

· Revenue growth driven by higher volume and supported by favorable Fx

- Platforms: strong performance in Advanta (+22%) and crop protection segment (+8%),
led by volumes; specialty chemicals up by 42% vs. LY

- Regions: led by Europe (+21%), Rest of the World (+32%); momentum in India and Americas

· Contribution increased 17% YoY on back of margin expansion (+160 bps vs. LY) led by improved mix, higher capacity utilization and lower input cost, leading to a strong overall EBITDA growth

· Profit Before Tax (PBT) up by 90% vs. LY, from ₹354 cr to ₹671 cr; 9M improvement by >₹1,800 cr

· Operational PATMI up by ₹140 cr, translating to a growth of 45% vs. LY (Q3LY adjusted for a tax-provision reversal of ₹592 cr, on account of favorable order from appellate authority)

· Net working capital: 116 days (vs. 107 days LY) at ₹15,625 cr (Dec‘25)

· Net debt at ₹23,317 cr ($2,594 Mn) in Dec‘25, reduced by ₹2,553 cr ($427 Mn) vs. LY
(adjusted for perpetual bonds, lower by >$800 Mn); significant de-gearing vs. LY

· Successful filing of Advanta DRHP on 19th Jan, 2026

· Achieved DJSI CSA score of 77 (ranked #1 within peers); CDP ‘A’ for climate and ‘A‑’ for water

· Awarded by ICPA in Jan, 2026 for (a) Governance Excellence and (b) Financial Performance

9M Highlights

· Revenue up 8% vs. LY, led by seeds and crop protection, and supported by spec chem business

- Strong performance across all regions

· EBITDA growth and margin improvement led by broad-based performance, through better mix,
higher capacity utilization and lower input cost

Management Remarks on Q3 Performance

Jai Shroff, Chairman & Group CEO, UPL Limited said, “We are proud to deliver yet another record quarter, building on the solid foundation of last year’s strong base. This achievement reflects the strength of UPL’s diversified business model, driven by our robust intellectual property portfolio, cutting-edge digital and analytics capabilities, and unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Our platforms are on pathways of unlocking significant value. As we continue to transform and scale our business, we remain focused on delivering long-term sustainable growth and creating value for all our stakeholders.”

Bikash Prasad, Group CFO, UPL Limited, added, ”UPL has delivered a strong performance, surpassing a strong third quarter last year. We have maintained robust momentum throughout the past three quarters, that reflects our operational excellence, and disciplined financial and risk management.

We continue to achieve broad‑based EBITDA growth for the year, strengthen our balance sheet through reduced net debt, and rigorous capital allocation. With a solid performance so far and a seasonally strong Q4, we remain optimistic and reaffirm our guidance.”

UPL Corporation Ltd.

Exhibit 2: Financial Highlights

Q3FY26

Revenue

₹9,163 cr
8% YoY

Contribution

₹3,452 cr 14% YoY

Margin: 37.7% | 200 bps

EBITDA

₹1,752 cr 6% YoY

Margin: 19.1% | 40 bps

9MFY26

Revenue

₹23,746 cr
6% YoY

Contribution

₹8,548 cr 18% YoY

Margin: 36.0% | 350 bps

EBITDA

₹3,399 cr 25% YoY

Margin: 14.3% | 210 bps


Key Highlights

· Revenue growth of 8%, driven by higher volume and favourable Fx impact

- Strong growth across all key regions, including North America

- 9M remains strong, with broad-based growth across all regions

· Contribution increased 14% YoY margin due to +200bps margin expansion YoY; led by lower input cost and higher capacity utilization, driving EBITDA performance; Q3 EBITDA % near flat vs. LY

Mike Frank, Chief Executive Officer, UPL Corp commented, “We delivered a strong third quarter, continuing with the momentum built throughout the year. In a challenging macro market, we have delivered five consecutive quarters of growth in our bottom line, with a continued focus on expanding our market share. Our performance was broad-based, with solid growth coming from all key regions, including North America, despite tariff related uncertainties.

I am also pleased to share that our contribution and EBITDA margins expanded significantly despite a strong comparable last year. This is through our continued focus on improving efficiency and cost optimization. We maintain a positive outlook for Q4 and remain committed to delivering long-term value for all our stakeholders.”

UPL SAS

Exhibit 3: Financial Highlights

Q3FY26

Revenue

₹558 cr
4% YoY

Contribution

₹140 cr 55% YoY

Margin: 25.0% | 810 bps

EBITDA

₹16 cr improved

Margin: 2.9% | 750 bps

9MFY26

Revenue

₹2,605 cr
2% YoY

Contribution

₹831 cr 23% YoY

Margin: 31.9% | 540 bps

EBITDA

₹478 cr 38% YoY

Margin: 18.3% | 470 bps


Key Highlights

· Revenue growth of 4% in Q3 led by volumes and lower sales returns

- 9M positive, despite monsoon related headwinds

· Contribution margin in Q3 led by improved mix and new launches, driving robust EBITDA margins

- 9M continues to remain strong

Advanta

Exhibit 4: Financial Highlights

Q3FY26

Revenue

₹1,574 cr
22% YoY

Contribution

₹868 cr 21% YoY

Margin: 55.2% | 70 bps

EBITDA

₹341 cr 22% YoY

Margin: 21.6% | 20 bps

9MFY26

Revenue

₹4,639 cr
23% YoY

Contribution

₹2,613 cr 21% YoY

Margin: 56.3% | 70 bps

EBITDA

₹1,057 cr 28% YoY

Margin: 22.8% | 100 bps


Key Highlights

· Seeds revenue growth led by volume (+14%), and supported by pricing (+7%)

- Growth driven mainly by field corn (India, Latin America, Thailand and Indonesia)

· Robust Q3 and 9M growth in the post-harvest business

· Revenue led contribution growth

· 9M continues to remain strong with robust revenue and EBITDA growth

SUPERFORM

Exhibit 5: Financial Highlights

Q3FY26

Revenue

₹2,668 cr
11% YoY

Contribution

₹618 cr 13% YoY

Margin: 23.1% | 470 bps

EBITDA

₹301 cr flat

Margin: 11.3% | 120 bps

9MFY26

Revenue

₹8,025 cr
1% YoY

Contribution

₹1,955 cr 14% YoY

Margin: 24.4% | 330 bps

EBITDA

₹1,015 cr 10% YoY

Margin: 12.6% | 130 bps


Key Highlights

· Super-specialty chemicals up by 42%, led by volume growth

- Non-agchem revenue share ~27% vs. ~18% last year

· Contribution margin improvement driven by mix and favorable input cost

Exhibit 6: Revenue Performance by Regions

In ₹ Cr

Q3FY25

Q3FY26

YoY%

 

9MFY25

9MFY26

YoY%

Latin America

4,815

5,137

7%

 

12,517

13,232

6%

North America

1,571

1,617

3%

 

3,365

3,861

15%

Europe

1,285

1,554

21%

 

4,078

4,461

9%

India

1,105

1,148

4%

 

4,548

5,070

11%

Rest of World

2,131

2,814

32%

 

6,557

6,881

5%

Total

10,907

12,269

12%

 

31,064

33,504

8%

 

Exhibit 7: Revenue Performance by Platforms

 

In ₹ Cr

Q3FY25

Q3FY26

YoY%

 

9MFY25

9MFY26

YoY%

UPL Corporation

8,497

9,163

8%

 

22,313

23,746

6%

UPL SAS

535

558

4%

 

2,552

2,605

2%

Advanta

1,287

1,574

22%

 

3,776

4,639

23%

SUPERFORM

2,983

2,668

(11%)

 

8,115

8,025

(1%)

Elimination/ Others

(2,395)