Fossil Opens Doors To Chandigarh's First Franchise Store At Elante Mall, Celebrating Style And Craftsmanship

~ Strengthening its footprint in North India, Fossil brings its signature collections to Chandigarh’s premier shopping destination ~

Fossil, the globally celebrated lifestyle brand known for its timeless craftsmanship and innovation, is excited to announce the launch of its first franchise store in Chandigarh at Elante Mall. This marks the brand’s 30th retail location in India, further fortifying its presence in the country. This strategic expansion aligns with Fossil’s vision of enhancing accessibility and delivering an unparalleled shopping experience to fashion-forward consumers in the region.

Speaking on the launch, Johnson Verghese, Managing Director of Fossil India, said, “Chandigarh, known for its embrace of style and sophistication, presents an excellent opportunity for our retail location. At Fossil, we are dedicated to providing our customers with an immersive shopping experience that reflects our brand’s values. Elante Mall, being a key shopping hub, offers the perfect setting to connect with our customers and showcase our latest collections. We look forward to welcoming Chandigarh’s fashion enthusiasts to explore our range of watches, accessories, and leather goods.”

The store is designed to reflect Fossil’s distinctive blend of modern aesthetics and heritage craftsmanship, creating an inviting and interactive retail space. Customers will have access to an exclusive selection of timepieces, handbags, jewellery and lifestyle accessories, curated to complement their unique style preferences.

This launch marks another significant milestone in Fossil’s journey of expansion across India, reaffirming its commitment to delivering high-quality products and exceptional retail experiences. By establishing a presence in Chandigarh, Fossil aims to engage with local customers through a thoughtfully designed retail environment that showcases the brand’s dedication to innovation and quality craftsmanship.

About Fossil:

FOSSIL

Fossil is a leading global lifestyle accessories brand inspired by creativity and ingenuity, dedicated to connecting people to what matters most: time. Fossil takes pride in creating timeless and exceptionally crafted watches, leather goods and jewelry—designed to accompany you on every journey life presents. As a trailblazer in the industry, Fossil brings innovation and style to its accessories, while also working diligently to Make Time For Good™, a platform created to enact positive change for the brand’s people and communities.

“Sprite Cools Down The Summer With A Refreshing ‘Thand Rakh’ Vibe”

Campaign Film ft. Vedang Raina: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGWuuglYJFA

Campaign Film ft. Sharvari: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lH9yerLunaE

Sprite, the iconic lemon & lime beverage, goes live with it’s legendary ‘Thand Rakh’ campaign with a fresh spin. The all-new films showcase Sharvari and Varun Tej making their debut, while the ever-chill Vedang Raina and Dev Adhikari return, bringing their effortless cool back to the summer. No matter what challenges life throws your way, Sprite’s crisp, fizzy magic serves as a simple reminder to sip, relax, and take it easy.

This campaign puts a unique spin on every day, high-temp situations that happen on the go, capturing the essence of how today’s youth tackle these challenges with wit, humor, and a refreshing bottle of Sprite. It perfectly embodies the spirit of staying cool and refreshed in a fast-paced world.

Sumeli Chatterjee, Senior Category Director, Sparkling Flavours, Coca-Cola India and South-West Asia, shared, “For decades, Sprite has been the go-to youth brand, known for its edgy and authentic communication. This summer, the iconic 'Thand Rakh' campaign brings to life how Sprite is a perfectly refreshing ally for teens, always on the go. Launching with a 360 approach – the campaign features all-new films with India’s most loved teen icons. We’re excited to bring this chill philosophy to life and provide the refreshment our young audiences crave.”

In line with this partnership, Sharvari added, “Sprite has always had its finger on the pulse of youth culture. The ‘Thand Rakh’ campaign is no different; it’s witty, fun, and reminds all of us to take it easy and go with the flow. It’s the perfect blend of humor and chill vibes, promising to be exactly what we need when life gives you lemons!”

Varun Tej Adds, "Sprite’s ‘Thand Rakh’ is the ultimate life hack—keep it cool, keep it fun, and let nothing faze you. I love how this campaign brings humor into everyday moments, making sure that no matter what, you always have a sip of chill to fall back on."

Talking about his association, Vedang Raina said, “It’s always a pleasure to be associated with Sprite. ‘Thand Rakh’ is something that I personally relate to because finding your chill in life’s situations is the key to joy. This campaign is sure to match the vibe of audiences who are looking for that one moment of refreshment.”

Dev Adhikari shared, "The ‘Thand Rakh’ vibe is something we all need—whether you’re stuck in a situation or just dealing with everyday chaos. Working with Sprite on this campaign was the right kind of chill, and I can’t wait for everyone to see the fun we had bringing this to life.”

The 360-degree campaign will be amplified across television, and digital touchpoints, bringing Sprite’s zesty punch and playful vibe to the audiences, ensuring that whatever life brings—Thand Rakh, sip Sprite, and stay effortlessly cool!

Sukesh Nayak, Chief Creative Officer, Ogilvy, remarked ‘With this Sprite ‘Thand Rakh’ campaign we really wanted to bring back the Sprite persona in a way that was refreshing, while staying true to the cool, witty, effortless world of Sprite. We chose on-the-go and outdoor summer moments when things are at their most heated to show people how to keep their ‘thand’ and enjoy the Sprite side of life.’

In the quintessential Sprite fashion, this summer – “Sprite Gatak, Thand Rakh”

About Coca-Cola India

Coca-Cola in India is one of the country’s leading beverage companies, offering a range of high-quality and refreshing beverage options to consumers. The company, in line with its vision of ‘Beverages For Life’ offers a wide portfolio of products which includes hydration, sports, sparkling, coffee, tea, nutrition, juice and dairy based products. In India its beverage range includes Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, Thums Up, Charged by Thums Up, Fanta, Limca, Sprite, Maaza, Minute Maid range of juices and Honest Tea. The Company also offers hydration beverages including Limca GlucoCharge, Smartwater, Kinley, Dasani and Bonaqua packaged drinking water and Kinley Club Soda. Premium products constitute Schweppes and Smartwater. In addition, it offers a Costa Coffee range of tea and coffee. The Company is constantly transforming its portfolio, from reducing sugar in its drinks to bringing innovative new products to market.

The Company along with its owned bottling operations and franchise bottling partners has a strong network of close to 4 million retail outlets through which it refreshes millions of consumers across the country. It seeks to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable agriculture initiatives and carbon emission reductions across its value chain.

Globally together with its bottling partners, The Coca-Cola Company employs more than 700,000 people, helping to bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.cocacolacompany.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Kenstar Launches “BLDC Maxx: A Revolutionary Cooling Solution”

~Ramya Krishnan Leading a Futuristic Campaign for Smarter Summers~

~The pioneer of branded air coolers in India is set for another record-breaking summer~

Kenstar, a pioneer in the Indian air cooler market, announces the launch of its revolutionary cooling solution, the “Kenstar BLDC Maxx”. This cutting-edge innovation, integrated across its newly launched range of air coolers, delivers superior efficiency, longer lifespan, and enhanced reliability for Indian households.

As part of its launch, Kenstar is rolling out an impactful campaign led by Ramya Krishnan, a celebrated actress known for her iconic roles in Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada cinema alongside Techie Boy, an anime-inspired character representing futuristic approach, waste-hating and efficiency. The campaign highlights the brand’s commitment to smarter, cooler summers with its eco-friendly and cost-effective technology, while also reinforcing the brand’s deep connection with the South Indian audience.

With the introduction of BLDC (Brushless Direct Current) technology, the BLDC Maxx delivers up to 60% electricity savings, making it an environmentally friendly and cost-effective choice for Indian consumers. They also provide effective humidity control, ensuring optimal comfort in all seasons, and feature ultra-quiet operation, making them ideal for homes and offices. With a best-in-class 5-year motor warranty and a 3-year pump warranty, the coolers guarantee extended durability and consistent performance, even in extreme summer conditions.

"Kenstar is all about fulfilling the rapidly evolving aspirations of today's consumers," said Sunil Jain, CEO of Kenstar. "Customers today seek not just high functionality but also advanced aesthetics and technology. The Kenstar badge represents superior quality, attractive design, and long-term durability. Our new BLDC Maxx-powered air coolers are a giant leap forward—both for the industry and for our customers."

Neha Khullar, Head Marketing of Kenstar added, “Techie Boy, along with our brand ambassador Ramya Krishnan, will make this range of coolers more attractive for prospects, reinforcing our brand’s innovative approach. With his forward-thinking mindset, Techie Boy makes advanced cooling technology relatable, helping consumers understand how Kenstar’s latest innovation keeps them cool while keeping electricity bills in check.”

With BLDC Maxx at its core, Kenstar offers a comprehensive range of air coolers, including Tall Boy, TallDe, Arc 3D, and more to redefine cooling, reduce energy consumption, and elevate comfort. This summer, Kenstar, is offering 50+ SKUs of coolers covering Maha Desert, Desert, Personal, Tower, and Window coolers, ensuring that there is a perfect cooling solution for every home and business.

Kenstar is further solidifying its position in the home appliances market with the launch of its new range of Air Conditioners. This strategic move underscores the brand’s commitment to delivering high-performance, stylish, and durable products across a diverse portfolio, including refrigerators, washing machines, water heaters, room heaters, and lifestyle appliances.

Herbalife India Partners With Rising Cricket Star Yashasvi Jaiswal

Herbalife India, a premier health and wellness company, community, and platform, proudly announces its partnership with rising cricket star Yashasvi Jaiswal. This collaboration amplifies Herbalife India’s commitment to enhancing athletic performance through premium sports nutrition in India.

Over the years, Herbalife has been a steadfast supporter of top athletes, providing them with the nutritional tools necessary to achieve remarkable success. The partnership with Jaiswal highlights Herbalife's belief in the power of sports to promote health and community engagement.

Jaiswal's inspiring journey from a small town in Uttar Pradesh to the Indian national cricket team is a testament to his resilience and dedication. Starting his cricketing career at just ten years old, he has faced numerous challenges, making him a role model for aspiring athletes. This partnership reflects a shared vision of using sports to encourage well-being and inspire positive change.

Ajay Khanna, Managing Director, Herbalife India, said, “We are excited to partner with Yashasvi Jaiswal, who truly represents hard work and excellence. His journey shows the determination we value at Herbalife. As we celebrate our 25th anniversary in India, this journey reflects our growth and success in empowering athletes through proper nutrition. We believe that our science-backed products and expert support are essential for athletes to perform at their best. Together with Yashasvi, we aim to inspire young athletes across India to pursue their dreams and prioritize their health.”

Yashasvi Jaiswal said, " I am excited to be part of Herbalife's nutrition and wellness journey. Access to proper nutrition is key for helping athletes maintain peak performance and endurance, and I am thrilled to partner with Herbalife. They not only provide nutritional support but also promote overall well-being.

Herbalife sponsors over 150 athletes, teams, and leagues across the globe, supporting them with quality sports nutrition products at all stages of their training and competing. In India, Herbalife continues to support cricket and non-cricket athletes like Smriti Mandhana, Lakshya Sen, Manika Batra, Mary Kom and Palak Kohli. Herbalife has supported major teams and sporting events, including the Official Nutrition Partnership with Team India for the Summer Olympics in 2016, 2021, and 2024, the Commonwealth Games in 2022, and Special Olympics Bharat in 2023. Additionally, Herbalife was the Official Nutrition Partner for 7 Pro Kabaddi Teams in Season 8 and has been the Official Presenting Sponsor of IRONMAN 70.3 Goa since 2022, among other partnerships.

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 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 

MIT-World Peace University Study Traces Changes In Dragonfly Populations Over Time

In a groundbreaking study, researchers at MIT-WPU, Pune, revealed the population dynamics  of dragonfly species in Pune based on historical and contemporary data. Researchers found that eight species previously recorded in historical data are now absent, suggesting possible local extinctions due to unplanned urbanization, increased water pollution, and shifting weather patterns. The study also records addition of twenty-seven species compared to historical data, a significant number achieved due to citizen science and increased awareness regarding documentation of insect diversity. The study identifies shifts in dragonfly populations caused by factors such as changing land use, rapid urbanization, and data gaps.

The study also recorded the presence of five endemic species from the Western Ghats, reinforcing Pune’s ecological significance for Odonata studies. This first-of-its-kind study examines the long-term temporal distribution of odonates (dragonflies and damselflies) in the Pune district, shedding light on species losses and gains over nearly two centuries.

The research, led by Dr. Pankaj Koparde (Faculty, Department of Environmental Studies, MIT-WPU Pune), along with Arajush Payra (PhD Scholar) and Ameya Deshpande (Alumnus), presents a comprehensive analysis of historical and contemporary records. Primary data was collected between 2019 and 2022 across 52 localities in the Pune district, while historical records from the mid-19th century were reviewed through 25 published articles and citizen science data.

Researchers from MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU) have published this groundbreaking study, titled “Odonata Diversity in the Timescape of Pune District Adjoining the Western Ghats Biodiversity Hotspot,” in the International Journal of Tropical Insect Science (Springer Nature Publishing).

“Dragonflies are crucial insect predators that help regulate mosquito and pest populations in urban areas. Their role is comparable to that of tigers in a forest ecosystem. Monitoring their populations is essential for assessing environmental health,” said Dr. Pankaj Koparde, lead researcher of the study.

Compared to historical records, researchers today have access to advanced data collection techniques, citizen science initiatives, and increased awareness, allowing for a more refined understanding of biodiversity trends. The study also identifies Warje and Vetal Hills, along with Pashan Lake, as the most species-rich locations within the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) limits.

Building on these findings, MIT-WPU researchers are currently studying the impact of urbanization and water pollution on dragonflies along the Mula River. They are also establishing long-term monitoring projects to track diversity changes over time.

“We need to prioritize the conservation of urban green and blue spaces such as hills, grasslands, rivers, and lakes. Sustainable development planning is crucial to preserving natural ecosystems amid rapid urban expansion,” stated Arajush Payra, co-researcher on the study.

This study is part of a larger research initiative on dragonfly diversity across the Western Ghats, funded by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India. The researchers hope their findings will inspire more studies on biodiversity shifts across various taxa and encourage the establishment of long-term monitoring projects to aid conservation efforts.

"The Z Connect Festival: A Month Of Music, Dance, And Unforgettable Moments At The Galleria Mall!"

The Galleria Mall was abuzz with energy as it hosted the Ultimate Z Connect Festival, a high-octane celebration of Gen Z brands, creativity, music, dance, and non-stop fun! From 7th to 23rd February 2025, the mall transformed into a vibrant hub where youthful, energetic crowds gathered to explore and engage with their favorite Gen Z brands like Snitch, Neeman’s, Zouk, Bewakoof, Kica Active, Derma Co., Aqualogica and more, all under one roof. This event offered an unparalleled space for self-expression, where attendees could celebrate life and discover the latest trends across fashion, tech, entertainment, and lifestyle.

Each weekend brought something new and exciting, making it impossible for anyone to miss out! The festival kicked off with electrifying performances like the iconic Black Ice Crew dance show on February 7th, followed by a throwback Vinyl Night Out on February 8th, featuring top DJs spinning nostalgic beats. On February 9th, art lovers got creative at the Sip & Paint event, bringing their passion to life on canvas. Whether it was Fuzz’s Bring Your Dog to the Mall Day (Feb 11), or the Style under 3000 challenges with Bewakoof and Snitch (Feb 12), there was something for every trendsetter.

Trivia lovers tested their knowledge at the Pop Quiz Night on February 13th, while Valentine’s Salsa Night on February 14th got hearts racing with rhythm and romance. The high-energy Epic DJ Nights on February 15th kept the crowd partying until the last beat. Those seeking a moment of Zen could unwind at Pawasana Yoga with Puppies on February 16th, blending relaxation and adorable puppies for the perfect balance.

Throughout the festival, Neeman’s photo ops on February 19th allowed attendees to model the latest trends, while fierce competition sparked at the Dance Battle Qualifiers on February 21st. The grand finale on February 23rd saw the best dancers clash in the Dance Battle Finals, with the ultimate crown up for grabs.

The Z Connect Festival proved to be the ultimate destination for anyone craving fun, creativity, and unforgettable moments. People marked their calendars, brought their friends, and celebrated music, dance, and culture in full force at The Galleria Mall. The Z Connect Festival was undeniably the event of the season!

Javed Akhtar On Modern Masculinity: “Anger Must Challenge Power, Not Oppress The Weak” At Alliance Literature Festival

* Javed Akhtar captivated the audience at the Alliance Literary Festival with his thought-provoking views on modern masculinity, emphasizing that true anger should challenge systemic power, not oppress the vulnerable.

* The fourth edition of the festival, hosted by Alliance University, Bengaluru, featured over 120 speakers from 25 countries, including notable personalities such as Javed Akhtar, Asako Yuzuki, Anil Kumble, and Sanjay Patel, celebrating Asian culture, literature, and art under the theme The Asian Century.

The fourth edition of the Alliance Literary Festival emerged as a premier platform for intellectual discourse, celebrating the rich literary, artistic, and cultural landscape of Asia. Hosted by Alliance University from February 13-15, the festival revolved around the theme "The Asian Century," emphasizing Asia's evolving influence on global narratives.

The festival brought together over 120 thought leaders from 25 countries, including distinguished figures such as Sanjay Patel, Nandan Kamath, Urvashi Butalia, Prayaag Akbar, Arun Yogiraj, Don Palathara, Ravikumar Kashi, Shiv Aroor, Asako Yuzuki, and Rajdeep Sardesai. Discussions spanned Asia’s economic rise, the impact of migration, environmental challenges, the ascent of Asian athletes, and the continent’s role in education, sports, and innovation. This dynamic convergence of minds fostered intellectual exchange, cultural preservation, and meaningful societal transformation.

Among the festival’s standout moments was an electrifying discourse by the celebrated poet, lyricist, and screenwriter Javed Akhtar, who explored the evolving paradigms of masculinity and the role of anger in societal transformation. He emphasized that righteous indignation should challenge systemic injustices rather than be wielded against the vulnerable. Reflecting on the archetype of the Angry Young Man in cinema, he noted that this figure, often misunderstood, symbolized disillusionment with entrenched inequalities rather than oppression.

“Anyone who is angry with the weaker, the dispossessed that is not anger. That person is a bully, masking insecurities. True anger should be directed toward the powerful, those benefiting from unjust structures. Anger toward the weak is nothing more than cowardly tantrums,” remarked Javed Akhtar. He further examined the shifting portrayals of masculinity in contemporary cinema, warning against entitlement and misplaced aggression replacing genuine struggles. He underscored the role of parenting in shaping gender attitudes and called for a cultural shift that encourages individuals to embrace vulnerability alongside strength.

While addressing the younger generation, Akhtar highlighted the importance of staying relevant in an evolving world: “Relevance is not about rigidly holding onto past wisdom but about embracing evolving perspectives. Openness, curiosity, and adaptability are key. The youth today have a sharper moral and aesthetic compass than we did.”

The festival was inaugurated by Mani Shankar Aiyar, Former Panchayati Raj Minister, who emphasized the indispensable role of dialogue in shaping the 21st century. Sporting legends Anil Kumble and Dr. Anju Bobby George inspired audiences with their compelling narratives of resilience and perseverance.

Blending literary discourse with cultural vibrancy, the festival featured a Chhau dance performance, a semi-classical martial and folk tradition from West Bengal, alongside a Kathak recital by the celebrated artist -Hari. Comedy infused the atmosphere as stand-up artist Shraddha Jain, popularly known as 'Aiyyo Shraddha', brought laughter with her witty and engaging act.

Reflecting on the festival’s profound influence, Dr. Anirudh Sridhar, Dean of Thought Leadership at Alliance University, remarked:

“As this dynamic three-day literary confluence draws to a close, we take pride in cultivating a space where diverse voices converge, ideas flourish, and the transformative power of literature ignites minds. The enthusiasm from students and the literary fraternity has been truly heartening, reaffirming the necessity of such platforms in shaping perspectives and fostering creativity.”

Adding to its legacy, the festival also witnessed the launch of "Suburbian," an avant-garde magazine by Alliance University's MA (Creative Writing) department, introduced by eminent Japanese authors Asako Yuzuki, Kanako Nishi, and Erika Kobayashi.

With its fusion of literature, culture, and intellect, the Alliance Literary Festival 2025 reaffirmed its standing as a beacon of thought and creativity, championing discourse that shapes the future of Asian identity and global dialogue.