Fern Hotels & Resorts Powers Significant Expansion Of ‘Series By Marriott’

The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, is proud to announce strong response to its newest venture ‘Series by Marriott’ an exclusive brand collaboration with Marriott International. Since its launch, the strategic collaboration has witnessed an exceptional response from the Indian hospitality sector, with more than ten new independent hotel owners signing Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) in the first month alone. 

In addition to the new signings, most of the hotel owners have expressed their confidence in the brand’s vision and are working towards transitioning their current properties and affiliating to the Series by Marriott brand.  This rapid uptake signals strong faith in the combined strength of The Fern’s sustainability-driven ethos and Marriott’s world-class standards of excellence.

The brand’s momentum was further reinforced at The Fern Day, celebrated during the prestigious Global Design & Development Confluence 2025, hosted by Marriott International in collaboration with Hotelier India. A major highlight of the event was the reveal of the Mock-Up Room, a model room showcasing The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Series by Marriott design philosophy. With a focus on sustainability and eco-conscious design elements, the room received overwhelming appreciation from developers, hoteliers and industry leaders alike.

 

Sharing his thoughts on this significant achievement Rajeev Menon – President, Asia Pacific Excluding China, Marriott International said- “With most of the Fern Hotels across India set to join Marriott International’s portfolio, it is a powerful testament to the trust in Marriott’s brand strength, distribution network, and world-class standards.  This also marks a significant leap for our company’s growth story in India, a nation that is set to be Marriott’s third largest market globally. Series by Marriott’s launch across India will underscore our growth strategy outside getaway cities and further highlight our ability to deliver value to owners and exceptional experiences to guests. Our collaboration with The Fern Hotels & Resorts is off to a fabulous start, and we are excited about the opportunities this will unlock in the years ahead”

 

Adding his thoughts, Mr Rahul Chaudhary - Managing Director & CEO, CG Corp Global and CG Hospitality Holdings said – “Our vision is to expand to 500 hotels in the next 5 years and we are already seeing strong momentum towards that goal after our collaboration with Marriott International.  This alliance brings together the best of global hospitality, excellence and The Fern’s deep rooted sustainability focus, creating a growth platform that benefits our guests, partners and communities”

 

Mr. Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, said, “The response we’ve received for The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Series by Marriott has surpassed all expectations. It is heartening to see such alignment between our commitment to sustainable hospitality and the industry's growing appetite for innovation, comfort and responsible design. We’re excited to grow this collaboration and expand our footprint across India.”

 

With a surge in interest and a pipeline of new collaborations already in motion, The Fern Hotels & Resorts is optimistic about the future as more hotels carry The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Series by Marriott flag. As the brand moves forward, it remains committed to delivering exceptional experiences.

NueGo Completes 3 Years In India; Leads The Country’s Electric Intercity Segment

• India’s Largest Intercity Electric Bus Brand with a Fleet of 300+ Buses, Operational Across 120+ Cities

• Covered 2,765 million km, avoiding 261 million kg CO₂ emissions – equal to planting 3.53 million trees

•  24x7 women’s helpline, CCTV, GPS tracking, AI-enabled driver monitoring, and “Pink Seats” for women passengers

NueGo, India’s leading intercity electric bus brand by GreenCell Mobility, has completed three successful years of operations, cementing its position as the market leader in sustainable intercity travel. With a fleet of over 300 electric buses operating across more than 120 cities and clocking over 600 daily departures, NueGo has redefined the way India travels between cities—setting new benchmarks in comfort, safety, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility. 

In three years, NueGo’s coaches have covered an impressive 2,765 million kilometres, preventing over 261 million kilograms of CO₂ emissions—the environmental equivalent of planting more than 3.53 million trees. The company has also created significant employment opportunities, employing a total workforce of 5000+ people, of these, 150+ women and 10+ transgender individuals are part of various operations, reflecting NueGo’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Furthermore, to ensure operational efficiency and minimal downtime, NueGo has also established a network of over 100 high-performance superchargers, with capacities of 180 kW and 240 kW, capable of fully charging a bus in just two hours.

Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Devndra Chawla, MD & CEO, GreenCell Mobility & NueGo, stated, “Three years ago, we set out to prove that clean, safe, and inclusive intercity travel wasn’t a distant dream—it could be today’s reality. Every kilometre we drive without emissions is a kilometre towards a greener India, and every woman who travels with confidence is a step towards a more inclusive society. Our next chapter is about scaling this vision so that sustainable and safe travel becomes the norm, not the exception, across every city and town in the country.”

Likewise, NueGo has been at the forefront of promoting women’s safety and empowerment in intercity travel. The company employs women as coach captains and cabin hosts to create a secure, relatable travel environment for female passengers. It also made history by launching India’s first all-women intercity bus service, with both guests and crew being women. Its safety measures include a 24x7 women’s helpline (1800 267 3366), high-definition CCTV surveillance, real-time GPS tracking, mandatory driver breathalyzer tests, and an AI-enabled Driver Monitoring System. Reserved “Pink Seats” ensure women are seated next to other women, complemented by clean and hygienic mid-point stops, all under constant monitoring by a 24x7 Command Control Centre.

With its continued focus on sustainability, innovation, and passenger comfort, NueGo remains committed to setting new benchmarks in India’s electric intercity bus segment, offering travellers a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive way to journey between cities.

Young Content Creators From Around The World Bring Experience Abu Dhabi's Kids' Recommended Itinerary To Life

Experience Abu Dhabi has launched the next chapter of the Kids Recommended campaign, bringing together a diverse lineup of young international content creators to explore the city through a kid-designed itinerary packed with adventure, culture and discovery. 

Shaped by what children genuinely want from a holiday, the campaign began with global research involving more than 7,000 children and their parents across nine countries. Their insights inspired the co-creation of a seven-day itinerary designed by kids, for kids—blending imagination, exploration and family connection.

 

Now, that itinerary comes to life on the ground in Abu Dhabi, as young creators from Italy, India, China, the United States, Russia and Saudi Arabia take viewers along for the ride. From theme parks to museums, the film captures the city through the eyes of the very audience it was made for: children.

Starring Stefano & Ilary, Aakriti Sharma, Zhen Zhen, Joory Almothana with her kids, Helena Sazhina along with her twins and The London Family, the campaign brings together a diverse cast of content creators to explore the emirate through the lens of what children truly want from a holiday.

The creators filmed their experiences at major family attractions across Abu Dhabi, including the Ferrari World Yas Island, Yas Marina Circuit, Emirates Park Zoo and Resort and the newly opened teamLab Phenomena. The result is an immersive film that shows the emirate through a child’s eyes, full of joy, energy and discovery.

Backed by research and built around a kid-created itinerary, the Kids Recommended campaign is part of Experience Abu Dhabi’s broader summer platform, Totally Recommended. The film content captures what today’s young travellers are truly looking for - connection, creativity and the chance to step into the stories they love. With 90% of kids saying they want to make new friends on holiday, and nearly as many wanting to live out their favourite games and fantasy worlds, Abu Dhabi delivers a family experience that is imaginative, inclusive and entirely kid-approved.

The campaign content is centred on a hero film launching on YouTube, capturing the kids’ adventures across Abu Dhabi. This will be supported by a wider rollout of social-first content including carousels, reels and short-form videos across Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and X.

 

To watch the young creators, take on Abu Dhabi, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yiLDK4dYYo0

 

To download the Kids Recommended itinerary, visit: https://issuu.com/visitabudhabi/docs/kids_totally_recommended_itinerary_-_english?fr=sYjE1ZTgzNTM3NDI

 

About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi:

 

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors and its creative industries, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions.

 

By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture and tourism industries.

 

DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.

For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the destination, please visit: dct.gov.ae and visitabudhabi.ae/

VeeamON 2025 Tour India Ignites Bengaluru: Unveils Ransomware Readiness Blueprint To Power Data Resilience

Veeam commits to Bharat CyberSuraksha – Saksham Bharat MoI to advance India’s cyber resilience through skilling, partnerships, and AI-enabled strategies and expanding job opportunities

Veeam® Software, the #1 global leader by market share in data resilience, opened the India leg of its flagship VeeamON 2025 Tour in Bengaluru, unveiling its India-specific whitepaper “Strategies to Counter the Ransomware Threat in India”, and the debut of the Veeam Data Resilience Maturity Model (DRMM) designed to arm Indian organizations with a powerful new framework to assess and elevate their data resilience.

 

The opening event united top tech minds, government leaders, and industry innovators, including Veeam leaders Sandeep Bhambure, Vice President & Managing Director, India & SAARC; David Allott, Field CISO, APJ; and Keith SNG, Field CTO, APJ. Discussions centered on the importance of data resilience to unleash the power of AI, fostering cross-sector partnerships, and building a robust talent pipeline to combat the surging ransomware wave threatening Indian enterprises.

 

Key revelations from Veeam’s new study:

·         Ransomware remains a top threat for enterprises in India, with nearly 70% of affected organizations hit multiple times in just 12 months.

·         A staggering 90% of victims faced attempts to compromise their backups.

·         The whitepaper provides a roadmap to compliance with the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act and upcoming Digital India Act, highlighting actionable strategies to boost ransomware preparedness and safeguard data.

 

In a landmark move, Veeam signed a Memorandum of Intent (MoI) under the Bharat CyberSuraksha – Saksham Bharat initiative. This three-year commitment aims to skill over 1,00,000 professionals in data protection, ransomware recovery, and AI-powered security, launch 100+ Centers of Excellence, and create over 25,000 high-value cybersecurity and DevSecOps jobs nationwide.

 

Alongside this initiative, Veeam is driving what it calls the “6 Ps” of a cyber-resilient India: focusing on Partnerships, People, Platforms, Policy, Progress, and Purpose. Veeam has committed to building strong partnerships across industry, academia, and government; empowering people through skills and certifications; delivering secure, AI-powered platforms; aligning with policy frameworks like DPDP; ensuring measurable progress through DRMM benchmarks; and anchoring all efforts in a shared purpose of safeguarding data as a critical business asset.

 

Speaking at the event, Sandeep Bhambure, Vice President & Managing Director, India & SAARC, Veeam Software, said: “Data resilience is now mission-critical for every Indian business. The Veeam DRMM provides a vendor agnostic model, built on insights from a range of industry leaders, which enables Indian enterprises to understand how resilient their data is today and the steps they need to take to improve it.  In a world where data powers the entire business and is the fuel for AI leaders must treat data resilience with the same urgency as revenue, employees, customers, and brand. It's the foundation for AI – drive growth and innovation, compliance, and long-term competitive advantage – creating a future-ready India.”

 

VeeamON Tour: Building Data Resilience Nationwide

VeeamON Tour is the definitive global forum for data resilience, innovation, and collaboration. After Bengaluru, the India tour heads to New Delhi (August 21) and Mumbai (September 9), advancing the national conversation on securing India’s data-driven future. Register for the events here: https://www.veeam.com/resources/events.html.

 

About Veeam Software

Veeam®, the #1 global market leader in data resilience, believes every business should be able to bounce forward after a disruption with the confidence and control of all their data whenever and wherever they need it.  Veeam calls this radical resilience, and we’re obsessed with creating innovative ways to help our customers achieve it.

Veeam solutions are purpose-built for powering data resilience by providing data backup, data recovery, data portability, data security, and data intelligence.  With Veeam, IT and security leaders rest easy knowing that their apps and data are protected and always available across their cloud, virtual, physical, SaaS, and Kubernetes environments.

Headquartered in Seattle with offices in more than 30 countries, Veeam protects over 550,000 customers worldwide, including 67% of the Global 2000, that trust Veeam to keep their businesses running.  Radical resilience starts with Veeam. Learn more at www.veeam.com or follow Veeam on LinkedIn @veeam-software and X @veeam.

Echoes Of The Nation: Indian Military Bands Live At Phoenix Mall Of Asia This Independence Day

Experience the grandeur of patriotic music with the Army Brass Band, Pipe Band, and Jazz Band in an unforgettable celebration of India’s 79th Independence Day 

This Independence Day, Phoenix Mall of Asia will transform into a grand stage of pride, unity, and music as the Indian Military Bands, with the Army Brass Band, Pipe Band, and Jazz Band, perform live at Fan Park, 2nd Floor from 11:00 AM onwards. The event is open to all, inviting citizens to gather in a shared celebration of freedom.

 

With roots dating back to the 19th century, Indian Military Bands have evolved into a proud tradition that blends Indian melodies with the precision and grandeur of military music. Guests will be treated to a stirring performance lineup ranging from timeless patriotic anthems like Maa Tujhe Salaam and Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon to ceremonial marches, soulful jazz arrangements, and the resonant sounds of traditional pipe music. The repertoire will honour both the solemnity and joy of Independence Day, creating a moment where every note becomes a salute to the nation.

 

The Indian Military Bands have long been a symbol of national pride, performing at the country’s most prestigious occasions including the Republic Day parade, state visits, and international military music festivals across Europe and Asia. Known for their precision, artistry, and commanding stage presence, these ensembles embody the unity, tradition, and diversity of the Indian Armed Forces.

 

This Independence Day, immerse yourself in the grandeur of military music, celebrate the spirit of freedom, and be part of a gathering where every note pays tribute to the nation.

 

Event Details:

Event: Indian Military Band Performance on Independence Day

Date: 15th August 2025
Time: 11:00 AM onwards
Venue: Fan Park, 2nd Floor, Phoenix Mall of Asia
Tickets: Open for all

Odysse Electric Launches High-Speed scooter “Odysse SUN” With Aviation-Grade Cushioned Seat And Plus-Size Comfort

• Comes equipped with a 2500-watt peak motor and a top speed of 70 km/h

• Two battery options – 1.95 Kwh (~85 km range) & 2.90 Kwh (~130 km range)

• Priced at ₹81,000 (1.95 Kwh) and ₹91,000 (2.90 Kwh) ex-showrooms

• Premium comfort with an aviation-grade cushioned plus sized comfort seat and 32 litres of storage 

Odysse Electric Vehicles, India’s fastest-growing premium electric vehicle manufacturer announced the launch of its latest high-speed electric scooter – “Odysse SUN”. Built for the modern rider who seeks performance, comfort, and smart features in daily commuting, the Odysse SUN comes with a powerful lithium-ion battery configuration, cutting-edge features, and a refined yet sporty design.

 

The Odysse SUN delivers a top speed of 70 km/h and offers a range of approximately 85 km (1.95 Kwh) and 130 km (2.90 Kwh) on a single charge. The scooter’s batteries are AIS 156 approved and can be fully charged in just 4 to 4.5 hours, ensuring reliability and quick turnaround for daily use.

 

The Odysse SUN is powered by a 2500W peak motor and features three transmission modes- Drive, Parking, and Reverse – making it versatile for urban traffic conditions. The scooter also includes telescopic front suspension, Front and Rear Disc brakes, Digital meter, and hydraulic multi-level adjustable shock absorbers for superior comfort. Riders benefit from a spacious 32-litre under-seat storage compartment, keyless start-stop, LED lighting system, and a double flash reverse light for enhanced safety.

 

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Nemin Vora, CEO, Odysse Electric Vehicles Pvt. Ltd., said, “Odysse SUN is built for the modern rider who wants more power, more comfort, and a smarter electric ride. This launch is part of our larger vision to accelerate the adoption of high-speed EVs across India. SUN represents not just our technological progress but our commitment to making electric mobility both aspirational and accessible.”

 

With its aviation-grade seating, plus-size ergonomic design, and segment-leading storage, SUN is engineered to offer unmatched ride comfort for daily commutes and long city hauls. We have combined luxury-inspired styling with robust engineering to create a scooter that stands apart in both performance and aesthetics. Our goal is to ensure that riders experience the perfect blend of style, practicality, and sustainability every time they choose Odysse SUN, Mr. Vora added.

 

Available in four attractive colour options – Patina Green, Gunmetal Grey, Phantom Black, and Ice Blue – the Odysse SUN’s styling matches its dynamic performance priced at ₹81,000 (1.95 Kwh) and ₹91,000 (2.90 Kwh) ex-showrooms, The Odysse SUN is available for booking online and across the company’s dealership network. With its combination of performance, range, and premium features, it sets a new benchmark in the high-speed electric scooter segment.

Established in 2020, Odysse Electric is at the forefront of reshaping India's electric vehicle landscape. Odysse Electric offers one of the largest product portfolios, comprising 7 models which include 2 low-speed scooters, 2 high-speed scooters, a delivery scooter targeted to the B2B segment, an EV sports bike, and a commuter bike for daily users. The product range includes: -

 

• Latest addition of High-Speed Sun 70 kmph (compliant with high-speed EV regulations up to 130kms on a single charge)

• Low speed scooter HyFy 25 kmph (compliant with low-speed EV regulations with Up to 90 km on a single charge)

• Low Speed – Racer Neo, E2Go Lite, E2go+ and E2GO Graphene (electric scooter with portable battery, USB charging, digital speedometer and keyless entry)

• Low speed electric scooter V2 Graphene and V2 Lite  (waterproof motor, huge boot space and led lights)

• High-Speed Electric scooter SNAP (AIS 156 approved smart Portable Battery, waterproof motor, Distance to Empty & CAN enabled display also available in BaaS Option)

• High Speed Electric scooter HAWK Li (India’s first electric scooter with cruise control & Music system along with portable battery)

• Electric scooter TROT 2.0 for last-mile delivery (Loading capacity of 250 kgs and IoT)

• Electric bike EVOQIS & Evoqis Lite (with four drive modes, keyless entry, anti-theft lock, and motor cut-off switch)

• Electric motorcycle Vader (with 7” Touchscreen Android Display, AIS-156 approved battery, five drive modes, 18-liters storage space, Robust build)

Nikon India Expands Footprint In South India With New Experience Zone In Mysuru At BHOLA’S

·         Nikon India strengthens its regional presence with a state-of-the-art Experience Zone in Mysuru.

·         Brings immersive product demos, expert-led workshops, and Nikon’s full imaging portfolio under one roof.

 

Nikon India Private Ltd., a 100% subsidiary of Nikon Corporation, is proud to announce the launch of its new Experience Zone in Mysuru, Karnataka. The Nikon Experience Zone, located at the BHOLA’S, Ground Floor, Maharaja Shopping Complex, Bengaluru-Nilgiri Road, Opp. KSRTC Bus Stand, Lashkar Mohalla, Nazarbad, Mysuru – 570001, will officially open on August 11, 2025.

This launch is part of Nikon India’s ongoing efforts to deepen customer engagement and enhance the on-ground presence of its imaging and optical technology products across the country. With this new addition in Mysuru, Nikon aims to bring its innovative product range and immersive experience closer to photography enthusiasts, content creators, and professionals in southern India.

Speaking on the upcoming launch, Mr. Sajjan Kumar, Managing Director, Nikon India Pvt. Ltd., said, "At Nikon India, we continuously strive to stay connected with our growing community of creators and photography professionals. The launch of our new Experience Zone in Mysuru reflects our commitment to bringing world-class imaging solutions and customer experiences to newer markets. This center will not only showcase our cutting-edge camera gear and accessories but also serve as a hub for hands-on trials, workshops, and expert consultation."

The Experience Zone will feature Nikon’s extensive portfolio of DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, NIKKOR lenses, and sports optics, along with the latest imaging innovations. It is designed to provide customers with a first-hand experience of Nikon's advanced technology, helping them make informed decisions about their photography needs.

Customers can also look forward to in-store demonstrations, interactive training sessions, exclusive Nikon School workshops, and technical assistance from certified Nikon professionals.