Artificial Limbs Provided Help To Restore Mobility For The Needy In Bengaluru

The Karnataka Marwari Samaj, Bengaluru, successfully organized a Free Artificial Limb Distribution Camp. Under this service initiative, more than 124 needy beneficiaries were provided with artificial limbs, helping restore mobility, confidence, and a sense of self-reliance in their lives.

The program commenced with a welcome address by the Samaj Secretary, Mr. Mohit Tulsyan, followed by the ceremonial lamp lighting and Ganesh Vandana, formally marking the beginning of the event.

On this occasion, Mr. Umesh Kumar, IPS, Director General of Police (DGP), Karnataka, graced the event as the Chief Guest.The event was further honored by the presence of Senior BJP Leader Mr. N. R. Ramesh and renowned ENT Surgeon Dr. Alok Banka as Guests of Honour.

The program was smoothly conducted jointly by Mrs. Sushma Chandgothia, President of the Women’s Wing, and Mrs. Vandana Tulsyan, Vice President of the Women’s Wing. They expressed gratitude to all the guests, donors, volunteers, and supporting organizations for their valuable contributions.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Praveen Tulsyan, President of Karnataka Marwari Samaj, stated that “this artificial limb camp, continuously organized for the past 17 years, is one of the Samaj’s most significant service initiatives and a true reflection of its commitment to humanity.”

At the conclusion of the event, volunteers who played a key role in making the camp successful were felicitated.

Finally, Mr. Rakesh Jindal, Treasurer of the Samaj, delivered the vote of thanks, marking the formal conclusion of the program

IPRS Cracks Down On Music Licensing Non-Compliance In Bengaluru, Delhi And Calcutta

As Bengaluru prepares to celebrate the year end with music, lights and shared moments, Indian Performing Right Society (IPRS) has reaffirmed a simple yet vital principle: music thrives when creators are respected. IPRS, India’s only registered copyright society dedicated to safeguarding the rights of creators and publishers of music, had initiated legal proceedings against V&RO Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., a hospitality company operating and/or managing popular food and beverages outlets across Bengaluru, namely, Mirage, Badmaash, Hangover, Taki Taki, Holy Doh, Tycoons, Plan B, Café Noir and Nevermind, following its reluctance to secure the mandatory music licences for its upcoming Christmas and New Year events being organised across its multiple outlets in Bengaluru. Acting on IPRS’s plea, the Hon’ble Court has granted an ex-parte ad Interim Order Of Temporary Injunction, restraining the defendants and those acting on their behalf from publicly performing or communicating IPRS’s repertoire, or that of its sister copyright societies, essentially reinforcing that celebration cannot come at the cost of creators rights.

This position has found resonance beyond Bengaluru. In a separate matter instituted before the Hon’ble Delhi High Court on December 23, 2025, IPRS initiated legal proceedings against MJ Bizcrafts LLP, the entity responsible for operating and/or managing one of the most popular nightclub in the capital city, namely Privee, at Shangrila Hotel, New Delhi. By way of Order dated December 23, 2025, MJ Bizcrafts has been directed to deposit the royalty amount to IPRS prior to hosting the New Year’s Celebratory event scheduled for December 31, 2025, failing which an injunction restraining the event would come into effect.

IPRS’s rights have been further affirmed by the Hon’ble Calcutta High Court, where IPRS has secured another favourable order on December 24, 2025, against Chocolate Hotels Private Limited, the entity responsible for managing and/or operating the well renowned Park Prime Hotel in Calcutta. Chocolate Hotels Pvt. Ltd. have been restrained from organising any upcoming events involving the use of music without procuring a prior licence from IPRS.

As the festive season reaches its peak, IPRS reminds everyone that enjoying music also means respecting the people who create it. Restaurants, bars, hotels, cafes and event organizers planning Christmas or New Year celebrations that involve playing music must ensure that the necessary licenses are in place.

This New Year, celebrate responsibly. Let the music play, let the parties shine, and let the creators behind the music be fairly recognized and rewarded.

67% Of Rural Shoppers Still Prefer In-Store Experience; Star Localmart Survey Reveals Enduring Power Of Offline Retail Amid E-Comm Boom

60% cite product trust and instant access as key reasons for choosing supermarkets over online shopping, highlighting critical gaps in India’s e-commerce industry.

India’s e-commerce sector is experiencing unprecedented momentum, with a study estimating that the e-commerce market will soar to a remarkable $345 billion by 2030, ultimately reaching $550 billion by 2035. This robust expansion is driven by rapid digitization, increased smartphone penetration, and shifting shopping habits among Indian consumers. Yet, even as online retail accelerates, the estimates suggest a significant drop in mall vacancy rates to 8.1% in 2024, underscoring a strong resurgence in demand for brick-and-mortar retail. This trend underscores the enduring importance of physical stores in the retail landscape, as they continue to provide unique experiences and foster community connections that online platforms have yet to replicate.

A survey by India’s largest rural retail chain, Star Localmart, shows that offline shopping remains the preferred choice for a majority of rural consumers. The survey, conducted among 5,000 consumers from five cities, including Kolhapur, Mumbai, Pune, Karnataka, and Delhi, found that 67% of respondents choose to shop at their local retail supermarkets, with just 35% relying exclusively on online platforms.

This compelling insight comes at a time when digital commerce is often hailed as the future of retail. However, Star Localmart’s findings reveal that rural shoppers still value the tangible, trustworthy experience that only supermarkets can provide.

Most notably, 60% of shoppers say they trust the quality of goods more after seeing them in person and appreciate immediate access to products, which is a significant gap in current e-commerce offerings. Personalized service and staff assistance also play a crucial role, with 61% of respondents citing these factors as reasons for favoring supermarkets over online platforms. Concerns with online shopping remain prevalent: 54% have faced problems such as delivery delays, product damage, and complicated returns, which reinforce scepticism about digital purchases.

The local supermarket’s role extends beyond shopping, too; 59% believe these stores support local jobs, strengthen social bonds, and ensure a reliable and fresh supply benefits that are vital to rural communities. Persistent gaps in the e-commerce experience include uncertainty about product quality, delivery issues, lack of personalized assistance, and technical barriers such as limited internet access. While online shopping offers advantages like home delivery and a wider product range, these are often outweighed by rural consumers’ desire for trust, immediacy, and community connection.

Star Localmart’s survey demonstrates that supermarkets are more than just retail hubs; they are anchors of rural economic and social life.

Shrenik Ghodawat, Managing Director, Sanjay Ghodawat Group, said, “This survey proves that the human touch, trust, and reliability of retail supermarkets are irreplaceable in rural India. While e-commerce is expanding rapidly, it still cannot bridge the gaps that matter most to our communities. Our stores are not just retail outlets; they are gathering places where relationships are built and local livelihoods are supported. As we move forward, our commitment is to blend innovation with tradition, ensuring that rural shoppers enjoy both the convenience of modern retail and the warmth of personal service.”

When rural consumers were asked how supermarkets could better serve their needs, the top suggestions included a greater selection of local products, enhanced in-store services, and more flexible payment options. These insights reflect a clear demand for continued innovation and responsiveness in the offline retail sector.

Additionally, more than 58% of respondents said they would actively recommend shopping at retail supermarkets to their friends and family over choosing online platforms. Their reasons: better value for money, higher satisfaction, and a stronger sense of social connection. As India’s retail landscape transforms, Star Localmart reaffirms its commitment to being a trusted partner in rural communities, dedicated to ensuring consumers have access to both the convenience of modern retail and the enduring advantages of the in-store experience.

About Star Localmart:

Star Localmart, the retail arm of Sanjay Ghodawat Group (SGG), commenced its operations in 2020 with a mission to bring “Modern Retail Experience” to smaller towns of India. It is revolutionizing the retail landscape by building a chain of neighbourhood grocery stores that are multi-brand outlets offering 3000+ SKUs in compact 1300–2000 sq. ft. format. There are more than 170 stores operational in Maharashtra and Karnataka. The Group envisions becoming India’s largest rural retail chain by opening 3000 stores in the next 5 years.

Website: www.starlocalmart.com

About Sanjay Ghodawat Group:

Sanjay Ghodawat Group (SGG) is a diversified conglomerate with operations spanning various high-value business verticals such as Aviation, Consumer Products, Education, Energy, Realty, and Retail. Since its founding in 1993, SGG has witnessed impressive growth under the splendid stewardship of its Founder and Chairman, Mr. Sanjay Ghodawat. It has a strong base of millions of customers globally, with an employee strength of over 11,000 and a student base of over 21,000. SGG is moving ahead with great vigour and bringing significant changes in people's lives with its wide range of high-quality products and services.

Website: www.ghodawat.com

A Countdown Written In Celebration – New Year’s Eve At Taj West End, Bengaluru

Ring in the New Year amidst the heritage gardens of Taj West End, Bengaluru, where gracious hospitality, curated menus, and celebratory energy set the tone for a memorable night.

At Machan

A lavish New Year’s Eve buffet with carving stations featuring Butterball stuffed turkey, Belgian roast pork, and Dumba, complemented by immersive live counters—from The Heavenly Hundred dessert showcase and Thermidor Temptation seafood station to Arabic grills and nostalgic ice gola with Turkish ice cream.

Price: INR 14,000 + taxes (Couple) | INR 7,500 + taxes (Single) | INR 4,000 + taxes (Child)

At Blue Ginger

An indulgent Asian celebration with live band, DJ, and dance floor, featuring Burmese khow suey, Italian pasta selections, five-spice whole duck, and expansive Asian and Indian buffet highlights.

Price: INR 18,500 + taxes (Couple) | INR 9,500 + taxes (Single) | INR 5,000 + taxes (Child)

(Children permitted only at Blue Ginger.)

At The Blue Bar

Celebrate with select beverages and chef-crafted small plates, live grills, Asian dim sum, and Indian tandoori favourites in a lively setting.

Price: INR 18,500 + taxes (Couple) | INR 9,500 + taxes (Single) | INR 5,000 + taxes (Child)

Details

· Date: 31 December 2025

· Time: From 7:30 PM

· For Reservations: 080-66605660

A night of flavour, festivity, and fine cheer awaits.

Medtronic Launches A Mobile Surgi-skill Lab To Democratize Access To Advanced Skill Development For Young Surgeons Across India

Medtronic, a global leader in healthcare technology, today announced the launch of its pioneering Mobile Surgi-skill Lab- a state-of-the-art platform designed to equip healthcare professionals across India's underserved tier 2 cities with critical competencies in minimally invasive surgery (MIS). This initiative underscores Medtronic’s unwavering commitment to fostering clinical excellence and advancing surgical care standards beyond metropolitan centers.

Medtronic Mobile Surgi-skill Lab represents a transformative approach to medical education, bringing world-class training directly to hospitals and clinics in cities where access to specialized surgical training has historically been limited. Equipped with cutting-edge simulation technology and hands-on learning modules, the surgical lab will serve as a Mobile center of excellence, enabling surgeons and healthcare professionals to develop and refine their minimally invasive surgical skills without disrupting their clinical responsibilities.

"This initiative embodies our vision of equitable healthcare advancement across India," said Mandeep Singh Kumar, managing director & vice president, Medtronic India, "By bringing surgical training to the doorstep of medical colleges in tier 2,3 cities, we're creating a far reaching influence that elevates surgical standards, improves patient outcomes, and strengthens the entire healthcare ecosystem in underserved regions."

Key Features of the Mobile Surgi-skill Lab:

The lab features state-of-the-art simulations equipped with realistic training models, video-assisted surgical instruments, and interactive learning platforms. The comprehensive curriculum covers fundamental and advanced MIS techniques, offering specialized training tracks tailored to the evolving needs of regional healthcare facilities. Each engagement includes hands-on practice sessions, mentorship from expert faculty, and post-training support to ensure sustained skill development.

Bridging the Skill Gap

Access to specialized surgical training has long remained concentrated in metropolitan hubs, creating disparities in clinical capabilities across regions. The Mobile Surgi-skill Lab directly addresses this gap, ensuring that young surgeons and resident doctors in medical colleges in tier 2,3 cities can access the same quality training as their counterparts in larger centers. This democratization of medical education is expected to significantly enhance surgical safety, reduce complication rates, and foster adoption of minimally invasive techniques across regional healthcare systems.

Commitment to Clinical Excellence

"We believe that skill excellence is not a privilege—it's a necessity," added Mandeep Singh Kumar. "This mobile training initiative reflects our deep commitment to empowering every healthcare professional, regardless of geographic location, with the knowledge and practical experience needed to deliver exceptional patient care."

The organization has already secured partnerships with leading healthcare institutions and regional medical associations to ensure the Mobile Surgi-skill Lab reaches the communities that need it most. The initial roadmap encompasses visits to 10 tier 2 cities over the next 12 months, with expansion planned based on feedback and demand.

About Medtronic

Bold thinking. Bolder actions. We are Medtronic. Medtronic plc, headquartered in Galway, Ireland, is the leading global healthcare technology company that boldly attacks the most challenging health problems facing humanity by searching out and finding solutions. Our Mission — to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life — unites a global team of 95,000+ passionate people across more than 150 countries. Our technologies and therapies treat 70 health conditions and include cardiac devices, surgical robotics, insulin pumps, surgical tools, patient monitoring systems, and more. Powered by our diverse knowledge, insatiable curiosity, and desire to help all those who need it, we deliver innovative technologies that transform the lives of two people every second, every hour, every day. Expect more from us as we empower insight-driven care, experiences that put people first, and better outcomes for our world. In everything we do, we are engineering the extraordinary. For more information on Medtronic, visit www.Medtronic.com and follow Medtronic on LinkedIn.

Ishaara Brings Its Unique Sign-And-Dine Experience To Church Street, Bengaluru, Strengthening Its Philosophy Of Giving Back

~Bellona Hospitality of Phoenix Mills Ltd Expands Its Footprint with Ishaara, Ushering in a New Era of Purpose-Led Dining~

Ishaara by Bellona Hospitality makes its standalone debut on Church Street, Bengaluru, guided by a clear purpose-led vision. The brand continues to shape meaningful hospitality experiences, championing inclusion, celebrating ingredient-forward cuisine, and creating spaces that resonate beyond the plate. Rooted in people and the philosophy of giving back, Ishaara empowers communities through opportunity and representation. True to its name, meaning “gesture,” the space is designed around connection, where communication unfolds through expression, presence and intent rather than words.

Ishaara is helmed by a dedicated team of hearing and speech-impaired service professionals for whom gestures are not only a concept, but a language. Every interaction is guided by clarity and warmth, shaping every dining experience that feels truly welcoming. Grounded in purpose and giving back, Ishaara continues to champion excellence through empathy, making Bengaluru, with its openness and curiosity, a natural next chapter for the brand.

Speaking on this expansion, Mr. Prashant Issar, Managing Director, Bellona Hospitality, says, “This marks not just growth, but the beginning of a powerful new era for the brand. Our aim is to create moments of connection through food, emotion and human kindness. His words echo Ishaara’s core belief: that hospitality is, above all, deeply personal.”

A Space Designed to Feel Honest

At Ishaara, nature-led design sets the tone for a space that feels both raw and refined, envisioned by Mumbai-based studio Minnie Bhatt Design, known for its refined, experience-driven interiors. The 3,000 sq. ft. indoor–outdoor restaurant blends concrete, warm wood, brass and faux leather into a tactile, inviting environment softened by flowing greens. Its 700 sq. ft. verandah, with its striking ceiling height, transforms from a sunlit daytime corner to a relaxed evening bar. The design philosophy is rooted in simplicity, tactile, grounded and deeply human.

Factsheet:

Name: Ishaara

Concept: Sign-and-Dine Elevated Dining Experience

Location: 1 Sobha, Church Street, Bengaluru - 1

Timing: 12 pm to 12 am

Seating Capacity: 112

Meal for two: Price 1800

Reservation: +91 84228 86196 | +91 84228 98011

No. of staff part of the inclusion model - 25

Expansion pipeline (other cities, number of outlets) - 9 cities | 5 cities current, expansion – Ongoing

Impact metrics (e.g., how many hearing-impaired staff trained since inception) – 225+

Virohan’s 65 Crores ($7.5M) Ongoing Series B, Led By Mynavi Corporation, Japan And Blume Ventures

Virohan, India’s pioneering leader in healthcare education, has raised INR 65 crores ($7.5 million) as part of its ongoing Series B funding round, led by Mynavi Corporation. The round also saw participation from Virohan’s existing investors including Blume Ventures, Bharat Inclusive Technologies Seed Fund, and Rebright Partners.

The funding will accelerate Virohan’s path to profitability through product innovation, operational efficiencies, and strategic talent expansion.

Virohan enables leading universities such as UPES (Dehradun), BBD University (Lucknow), CMR University (Bengaluru), Assam Don Bosco University (Guwahati), MIT University (Shillong), G.H. Raisoni University (Nagpur and Pune), Silver Oak University (Ahmedabad), and more to deliver best-in-class undergraduate programs in allied healthcare, nursing, and healthcare management. On the industry side, it works closely with top healthcare organizations including Lenskart, Medanta, Healthians, Dr. Lal PathLabs, and many more, creating a robust education-to-employment pipeline for its learners.

Since its inception in 2018, Virohan’s model has delivered strong outcomes — partnering with over 20 higher education institutions as an industry partner, preparing more than 13,000 aspiring healthcare professionals, and collaborating with over 2,000 healthcare employers to ensure graduates are career-ready from day one.

Speaking on the announcement, Kunaal Dudeja, CEO of Virohan, said:

“The healthcare system runs on the strength of skilled professionals, yet millions of roles remain unfilled due to broken pathways between education and employment. At Virohan, our mission is to close this gap at scale as an industry partner to higher education institutions. This support of new and returning investors allows us to double down on technology, expand our partnerships, and unlock career opportunities for students. By 2030, we aim to impact one million learners and become the backbone of the allied healthcare workforce, in India and abroad.”

Hidekazu Ito, Managing Director at Mynavi India, added:

“The demand for skilled healthcare professionals in India and across the globe is growing at an unprecedented pace and Virohan’s model - bringing together technology, industry-aligned education and strong institutional partnerships - has the potential to redefine how healthcare education is delivered at scale.

We at Mynavi have grown with a purpose-driven culture, supporting people’s turning points and career transitions through our human resources businesses in the Japanese market. In the Indian context, we are focusing on addressing critical challenges in the human resource and education sectors.

We strongly believe that Virohan’s sustained growth will create meaningful social impact and help solve these key issues.”

With this milestone, Virohan is poised to shape the next decade of healthcare education and workforce development in India — creating a stronger bridge between classrooms and careers.

About Virohan: Founded in 2018, Virohan is an education-to-industry partner, shaping the future of healthcare education. It enables India's top higher education institutions to deliver best-in-class undergraduate programs such as Optometry, Medical Lab Technology, Operation Theatre Technology, Physiotherapy, Radiology, and more. Combining cutting-edge technology, learner-centric innovations, and strong industry partnerships, Virohan equips students with skills that go beyond degrees, preparing them for meaningful careers in healthcare with an industry-first perspective. By 2030, Virohan aims to impact a million aspiring healthcare professionals and collaborate with over 100 universities across India to transform education and strengthen healthcare.