Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Four Seasons Strong: Coke Studio Bharat Announces Its Season 4 Artist Line-Up


'The List' features Rekha Bhardwaj, Aditya Rikhari, Kutle Khan, Qaiser Nizami, Arslan Nizami, Swarit Shukla and more.

After three seasons of reshaping India’s streaming landscape, Coke Studio Bharat returns with Season 4. Known for bringing together artists from across India to reimagine regional sounds and traditions, the platform begins the new season with ‘The List,’ revealing the artists who will take part this year.

If Season 3 gave audiences Arz Kiya Hai, a modern-day interpretation of India’s poetry culture that topped the Indian music charts, and festival-ready tracks like Holi Aayi Re, Season 4 moves the conversation deeper into India’s local terrains.

This year’s line-up features Aditya Rikhari, Kulte Khan, Ravator, Faheem Abdullah, Arsalan Nizami, Madhur Sharma, Ashok Maskeen, Vaibhav Pani, Mohammad Faiz, Mame Khan, Khwaab, Utpal Udit and Rekha Bhardwaj, a powerful cross-section of artists who represent very different corners of the country, different musical inheritances, and very different audiences.

What defines this season is range. Without revealing what’s to come, Season 4 moves across personal storytelling, devotion, longing, memory and reinterpretation, drawing deeply from India’s living cultural traditions and musical practices, from Rajasthani folk traditions, Kashmiri narrative forms, Banaras-rooted accounts, Sufi lineage from Punjab, and a contemporary lens on modern love. Distinct voices. Unexpected pairings. Stories shaped by culture, place and memory but not confined by it.

Rekha Bhardwaj said, “Every generation rediscovers its roots in its own way. Coke Studio Bharat provides a space where that rediscovery happens through collaboration. Season 4 is about preserving the spirit of tradition while allowing it to breathe in a new context.”

Aditya Rikhari said, “My music has always been personal and emotional. With Coke Studio Bharat, the heart of the song stays intact, even as the sound grows around it. Season 4 feels like that, intimate in its writing, but expansive in how it’s heard.”

Faheem Abdullah said, “Music carries memory, identity and emotion. The song comes from the imagination of a poet from Kashmir who has a story to tell and being a part of Coke Studio Bharat gives me the chance to bring that world of storytelling on a national platform. This season that I am a part of, has enabled me to fuse my roots with the Coke Rock I grew up listening to.”

The details will unfold track by track. The focus remains on creating a space where diverse voices can come together while staying true to their origins.

Shantanu Gangane, IMX (Integrated Marketing Experience) Lead, Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia, said, “Coke Studio Bharat brings together India’s folk traditions and contemporary voices, creating a platform where the old and the new evolve together. Over the last three seasons, we’ve seen a powerful narrative of regional languages, traditional instruments and untold stories being presented at scale. Season 4 accelerates that approach and showcases culture and music from the heartlands at a national and global stage.”

Devraj Sanyal, Chairman & CEO, India & South Asia, & Senior Vice President of Strategy for Asia, Middle East and Africa, ( AMeA), Universal Music Group shares, “Coke Studio Bharat embodies the kind of creative ecosystem India’s music industry needs — one that honours the depth of our regional heritage while translating it into a contemporary, globally resonant sound. Over the past three seasons, we have shown the power of authentic storytelling and cross-cultural collaboration at scale. As we enter Season 4, our focus is clear to ensure that creativity continues to be our greatest competitive advantage.

In today’s world, the consumer is no longer a passive listener but an active participant by way of being a superfan shaping culture alongside us. That makes our prime directive simple — to build the most compelling music with the most exceptional artists, and in doing so, help shape culture here in India and beyond.”

Coke Studio Bharat has always placed the local at the centre. Built for a digital-first audience, it brings regional languages, folk stories, traditional instruments and contemporary artists onto one stage. Over the years, artists from across the country have featured on the platform. The format encourages unique pairings while preserving each artist’s authenticity and style.

Season 4 brings together experience and experimentation in equal measure. With the first track set to drop, Coke Studio Bharat once again steps into the moment, ready to soundtrack what comes next.  

Jos Alukkas Introduces Augmented Reality Feature “Virtual Try-On” Experience On Online Store


Jos Alukkas, a trusted name in quality, innovation, and trendy jewellery in India, has announced the launch of Augmented Reality (AR) experience on its website, developed in partnership with mirrAR, allowing customers to virtually try on jewellery from their smart devices.

The new AR feature enables customers to view and try necklaces, earrings, bangles, and rings, etc using the device camera and bringing in an added layer of confidence to online jewellery shopping. By blending advanced AR technology with traditional jewellery craftsmanship, the brand aims to redefine the online shopping experience for customers across India and globally.

“Jewellery is deeply personal, and customers often want to see how a piece looks on them before making a purchase. With this new AR feature, we are bringing the showroom experience directly to our customers’ screens. It reflects our continued efforts to align traditional retail strengths with evolving digital expectations”, said John Alukkas, Managing Director, Jos Alukkas.

Customers can visit the brand’s website https://www.josalukkasonline.com/ and select on a desired jewellery and choose the ‘Virtual Try-On’ option and see the jewellery appear on them through their device camera. The feature works seamlessly across most modern smartphones and desktops without requiring any additional downloads.

AR not only offers a convenient online shopping experience, it allows customers to feel confident with their purchase decisions, ultimately increasing conversion rates while reducing returns. The feature also appeals to younger, tech-oriented customers further reinforcing the brand’s efforts to expand its reach to a wider and more digitally connected audience.

“We are excited to collaborate with Jos Alukkas to bring cutting-edge AR technology to the jewellery industry. This solution bridges the gap between physical and digital retail, helping customers shop with confidence online,” said Meghna Saraogi, Founder and CEO, mirrAR.

The introduction of AR comes as part of Jos Alukkas’ broader digital transformation strategy aimed at enhancing customer engagement, improving online conversions, and delivering a premium omnichannel experience.

Customers can explore the new feature made available on www.josalukkasonline.com.

Celebrate Ugadi With Karnataka’s Culinary Heritage At Karunadu Swada

Karunadu Swada – Ugadi Special Edition: A Celebration of Karnataka’s Culinary Heritage

Step into the vibrant world of Karnataka’s food and culture as MTR Foods presents Karunadu Swada–Ugadi Special Edition, a one-day culinary festival celebrating the rich flavours, traditions, and stories that define Karnataka’s diverse cuisine. Taking place on 21 March 2026 at Sahakar Nagar Ground, the festival invites guests to explore an immersive journey through Karnataka’s regional food heritage.

Curated especially for the festive spirit of Ugadi, Karunadu Swada offers an immersive journey through Karnataka’s regional food heritage. The festival features 40+ authentic dishes and traditional sweets, showcasing culinary traditions from North Karnataka, South Karnataka, and Kodagu.

From the bold, rustic taste of North Karnataka to the refined and the rich flavours of coastal Karnataka to the royalty-inspired classics of Old Mysore, each dish reflects the depth and diversity of the region’s culinary legacy. Adding to the experience, guests can also enjoy iconic MTR signature favourites, including the legendary Rava Idli, celebrating MTR’s enduring role in Karnataka’s food story.

Designed as a vibrant festive gathering, Karunadu Swada brings together food lovers, families, and culture enthusiasts in a lively community setting—where authentic regional cuisine, age-old traditions, and the joyous spirit of Ugadi come together for a truly memorable experience.

Date: 21 March 2026
Venue: Sahakar Nagar Ground
Highlights: 40+ regional dishes and sweets across North Karnataka, South Karnataka & Kodagu, along with MTR’s iconic Masala Dosa and Rava Idli
Time Slots: 12:00 PM | 1:00 PM | 2:00 PM | 7:30 PM | 8:30 PM | 9:30 PM
Tickets: Available via the District by Zomato platform (https://link.district.in/DSTRKT/7q68fgi8)

Celebrate Ugadi with the flavours of Karnataka—where tradition, culture, and community come together at a single festive table.

Raptee .HV Receives ₹25 Crore Backing From Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation


The board of the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) has approved an investment of about ₹25 crore in Raptee Energy under the TIDCO Startup Investment Policy 2025. These investments mark the first deployments under the policy and signal the Government of Tamil Nadu’s decision to directly support high-potential startups emerging from the State’s deep-tech and advanced manufacturing ecosystem.

Approval letters were handed over by TRB Rajaa, Minister for Industries, to Dinesh Arjun, CEO and Co- Founder of Raptee Energy. This investment represents a broader institutional shift led by the Department of Industries to strengthen Tamil Nadu’s startup financing ecosystem. It also reflects the State’s focus on supporting innovative companies in frontier sectors such as electric mobility and advanced technologies.

Dinesh Arjun, CEO & Co-Founder, Raptee Energy

“Having TIDCO as a direct investor is a historic first for any state in the country, and it provides Raptee with the institutional credibility to compete on a global stage. This milestone would not have been possible without the forward-thinking leadership of the Honourable Chief Minister Thiru MK Stalin and the hands-on encouragement of the Industries Minister Dr. TRB Rajaa. From our early days to this significant backing, the Minister has personally championed our mission, providing the guidance and ecosystem support necessary for a deep-tech startup to thrive. We are proud to be building world-class electric motorcycles in Tamil Nadu, fueled by a government that truly believes in the power of homegrown innovation.”

TRB Rajaa, Minister for Industries

“Since 2024, we have been working on reimagining TIDCO’s role in the Department of Industries. Making Tamil Nadu a ‘Product Nation’ has been the ambition of the Honourable Chief Minister, and my personal target, for two years. To lay the foundation for that target, we rebranded TIDCO as a ‘Venture Catalyst’ - the first step towards reforming the organisation into a robust investment arm of the government that helps secure the state’s future in sunrise sectors. With these investments, we have opened a brand new chapter

in TIDCO’s journey with the ambition to recreate the success of our early investments, like the one in TITAN, across many more promising startups.”

Arun Roy, Secretary, Department of Industries

“Under this policy, TIDCO has been authorised to invest up to ₹25 crore in eligible startups across sunrise sectors such as electric vehicles, renewable energy, aerospace and defence, semiconductors, medical electronics, advanced technologies including artificial intelligence, blockchain and quantum computing, agro and food processing, technical textiles and speciality chemicals. The policy enables investments across the startup lifecycle, from early-stage innovation to scale and expansion, ensuring that high-growth Tamil Nadu companies have access to patient capital within the State.”

About Raptee.HV

Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Chennai, Raptee.HV is an Indian electric motorcycle startup with a mission to bring the best of global electric technology to motorcycles. The company has developed its technology entirely in- house, delivering superior performance, reliability, and charging convenience. Its motorcycles are the only two- wheelers equipped with the CCS2 car-charging standard, enabling compatibility with the rapidly expanding electric car charging infrastructure. With 7 years of deep-tech , R&D-driven innovation, and a strong focus on engineering-led product development , Raptee.HV is poised to redefine the performance electric motorcycle segment.

EBG Group Partners With Hard Rock International To Launch Premium Coffee Machines & Small Kitchen Appliances In India


• The partnership plans to drive brand-led growth in India’s premium home appliance market by combining global equity with lifestyle-driven product innovation

• Products will roll out through top retail and digital channels, catering to urban consumers seeking performance with lifestyle appeal

EBG Group, a progressive player in innovative consumer and lifestyle solutions under the EBG Group umbrella, has announced a strategic brand licensing partnership with Hard Rock International to introduce a premium range of Hard Rock–branded coffee machines and small kitchen appliances in India. As part of its India market entry strategy, the partnership is backed by a planned investment of 100 Cr, with a projected revenue target of 500 Cr over 5 years. The collaboration aims to capitalise on India’s rapidly expanding premium home appliance segment, currently valued at 29,000 Cr and growing at an estimated 9% CAGR.

Globally, Hard Rock spans hospitality, entertainment, retail, and licensed lifestyle categories, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s most recognisable music-led brands. The collaboration marks Hard Rock’s entry into India’s premium home appliance segment, bringing its distinctive design language and cultural identity into modern kitchens. The companies aim to capture approximately 5% market share within the first few years of operations.

Under the licensing agreement, EBG Group will design, develop, manufacture, and distribute a curated portfolio of products aligned with Hard Rock’s bold and contemporary brand ethos. The first phase of launch will be across key metropolitan markets, followed by a phased expansion into other major cities.

Commenting on the partnership, Dr. Irfan Khan, Founder and CEO of EBG Group said, “Partnering with Hard Rock is a significant milestone for us. Hard Rock represents energy, authenticity, and a globally aspirational lifestyle. Through this licensing collaboration, we aim to bring a differentiated portfolio of premium coffee machines and small kitchen appliances to Indian consumers who value both performance and brand experience. Our focus is on creating products that are emotionally resonant while delivering world-class quality and reliability.”

The upcoming range will combine distinctive Hard Rock aesthetics with high-performance technology, premium materials, and a contemporary, music-inspired lifestyle appeal. The products are expected to be launched through leading retail chains, major e-commerce platforms, and select premium distribution channels, targeting aspirational urban consumers seeking performance-driven appliances with strong lifestyle positioning.

About EBG Group

EBG Group is a diversified Indian enterprise with interests spanning mobility, health, realty, lifestyle, food, services, technology, and education. Known for its innovation-led approach and strategic brand-building capabilities, the Group continues to build scalable platforms for global partnerships and emerging consumer categories.

About Hard Rock

Founded in 1971, Hard Rock International is one of the world’s most globally recognised brands, celebrated for its music heritage and vibrant culture. With cafes, hotels, casinos, live music venues, and retail outlets across more than 70 countries, Hard Rock continues to extend its iconic brand into carefully curated lifestyle categories that reflect its bold and distinctive identity.

Loyalty Made Easy: Marriott Bonvoy Members Stand A Chance To Win 10,00,000 Marriott Bonvoy Points At Loyal-Tea Pop Up In Mumbai


Marriott Bonvoy brings the ease of its loyalty programme to life with pop-up experience in Mumbai featuring limited-edition tea created by Dilmah

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel programme, is redefining what a loyalty programme should feel like - effortless and easy to enjoy, just like a cup of tea. To bring this to life, Marriott Bonvoy has partnered with renowned Sri Lankan family tea brand Dilmah to launch Loyal-Tea by Marriott Bonvoy, a limited-edition collaboration featuring a special India-exclusive tea blend. Inspired by the idea that loyalty should feel as effortless and habitual as a daily cup of tea, the India special blend will be available in a public pop-up experience in Mumbai on 21–22 March, where Marriott Bonvoy members stand a chance to win ten lakhs Marriott Bonvoy points.

For many travellers, loyalty programmes still feel complicated, effort-heavy and reserved for frequent flyers. Marriott Bonvoy is setting out to change that. Through its latest regional campaign “Loyalty, Just That Easy,” the programme is reframing loyalty as intuitive, effortless and rewarding for everyone,whether you travel often or occasionally.

The ‘Loyal-Tea’ Takeaway: Win the Golden Cup in Mumbai

Bringing the regional campaign to life in India, Loyal-Tea by Marriott Bonvoy will debut through a high-energy public pop-up at Phoenix Palladium Courtyard in Mumbai on 21–22 March. Visitors can sign up for Marriott Bonvoy on the spot and participate in a fast-paced game for the chance to win one of 300 exclusive Loyal-Tea blind boxes, each containing a collectible tea tumbler and an India-exclusive tea blend created in partnership with Dilmah.

Hidden among them is one Golden Tumbler, the prize that will award one million Marriott Bonvoy points to one lucky member. The winner will have the flexibility to redeem the points as they wish, be it for stays or meals across 10,000 Marriott Bonvoy locations worldwide. As an illustration of how points could be redeemed, one million Marriott Bonvoy points may translate to approximately two weeks’ stay at The St. Regis Mumbai, a month’s stay at The Westin Resort & Spa Cam Ranh, or two months’ stay at Moxy Kuala Lumpur Chinatown*.

Redefining Loyalty in India

The Loyal-Tea campaign is the latest in a series of recent extensive Marriott Bonvoy milestones in India. Just a few weeks ago, Marriott Bonvoy fulfilled the dreams of more than 500 members by giving them exclusive access to the International Cricket Council’s T20 Men’s World Cup. It has also added notable market leaders in the everyday earn space as strategic partners, allowing members to earn points when they shop on Swiggy and Flipkart.

Commenting on Marriott Bonvoy’s many enhancements, Khushnooma Kapadia, Vice President – Marketing, South Asia, Marriott International, “Hospitality led loyalty is no longer just about points. Today, it is about relevance, accessibility and everyday engagements – meeting travelers where they are present and at their passion points. We are focussed on building this complete ecosystem of simple, rewarding pathways with an ambition to make Marriott Bonvoy programme second nature for travellers, easy and effortless to engage - something that fits seamlessly into their journeys, whether they are staying, dining or seeking new experiences.”

Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and redeem points across more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 destinations worldwide, not only through stays but also while dining, visiting the spa, or unlocking experiences across music, sports, art and culture through Marriott Bonvoy Moments™. With five elite tiers — Silver, Gold, Platinum, Titanium and Ambassador Elite — membership unlocks benefits ranging from free night stays and room upgrade to dining discounts, bonus points and exclusive experiences, all through free enrolment.

About Marriott Bonvoy®

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International's award-winning travel platform, connects travelers to the people, places, and passions they love through an extraordinary collection of hotels and experiences worldwide. The platform features over 30 hotel brands and 10,000 destinations, including the largest collection of luxury offerings, distinctive boutique properties, premium home rentals, and more, providing renowned hospitality across the globe. With unrivaled access to the best in entertainment, culinary, sports, outdoor adventure, arts, culture, and more, Marriott Bonvoy offers transformative travel experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Marriott Bonvoy membership is free and unlocks unique benefits including the ability to earn points through travel and everyday activities, like purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for free stays, experiences and more. Visit marriottbonvoy.com for more information and download the Marriott Bonvoy app here. Travelers can connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook.

Hyatt Announces Signing Of Agreement For Hyatt Place Ahmedabad Nikol, Expanding Its Essentials Portfolio In India

* New 140-Key Signing Reinforces Hyatt’s Commitment to High-Growth Urban Markets in India

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced the signing of an agreement for Hyatt Place Ahmedabad Nikol, marking a significant milestone in Hyatt's continued expansion in India. In development by Golden Buildcon, this 140-key hotel will offer a unique blend of comfort, style, and modern amenities, further strengthening Hyatt’s brand presence in Ahmedabad, Gujarat’s administrative and commercial hub.

The hotel will feature a range of dining options offering a variety of culinary experiences, including a main restaurant and grab-and-go market. The hotel will also include a 3,455-square-foot (321-square-meter) ballroom, along with several conference rooms and a boardroom, providing ample space for meetings and events. Guests will also enjoy a fitness center and swimming pool, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers.

“Ahmedabad continues to demonstrate strong economic growth, driven by infrastructure development, manufacturing, financial services, and entrepreneurship,” said Dhruva Rathore, Vice President, Real Estate & Development for India & Southwest Asia at Hyatt. “This signing reflects our confidence in the city’s expanding hospitality landscape and reinforces our commitment to strengthening Hyatt’s portfolio in high-growth markets across India. We look forward to delivering thoughtfully designed hospitality experiences that cater to the evolving needs of business and leisure travelers in Ahmedabad.”

Hyatt Place hotels combine style, innovation, and 24/7 conveniences to create an easy and comfortable stay experience. Designed for multitasking travelers, the brand offers modern guestrooms, flexible meeting spaces, and thoughtfully curated amenities.

The signing of this deal for Hyatt Place Ahmedabad Nikol is a testament to Hyatt’s commitment to continued growth in India, where Hyatt remains focused on expanding its brand portfolio across key gateway cities and emerging markets.

The term “Hyatt” is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates.

About Hyatt Place

Hyatt Place hotels combine style, innovation and 24/7 conveniences to create an easy to navigate experience for today’s multi-tasking traveler. Guests can enjoy thoughtfully designed guestrooms featuring distinct zones for sleep, work and play, and free flowing social spaces that offer seamless transitions from work to relaxation. With more than 450 locations globally, Hyatt Place hotels offer freshly prepared food around the clock, efficient service and differentiated experiences for World of Hyatt members. For more information, please visit hyattplace.com. Join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram, and tag photos with #HyattPlace.

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose – to care for people so they can be their best. As of December 31, 2025, the Company's portfolio included more than 1,500 hotels and all-inclusive properties in 83 countries across six continents. The Company's offering includes brands in the Luxury Portfolio, including Park Hyatt®, Alila®, Miraval®, Impression by Secrets, and The Unbound Collection by Hyatt®; the Lifestyle Portfolio, including Andaz®, Thompson Hotels®, The Standard®, Dream® Hotels, The StandardX®, Breathless Resorts & Spas®, JdV by Hyatt®, Bunkhouse® Hotels, and Me and All Hotels; the Inclusive Collection, including Zoëtry® Wellness & Spa Resorts, Hyatt Ziva®, Hyatt Zilara®, Secrets® Resorts & Spas, Dreams® Resorts & Spas, Hyatt Vivid® Hotels & Resorts, Bahia Principle Hotels & Resorts, Alua Hotels & Resorts®, and Sunscape® Resorts & Spas; the Classics Portfolio, including Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Destination by Hyatt®, Hyatt Centric®, Hyatt Vacation Club®, and Hyatt®; and the Essentials Portfolio, including Caption by Hyatt®, Unscripted by Hyatt, Hyatt Place®, Hyatt House®, Hyatt Studios®, Hyatt Select, and UrCove. Subsidiaries of the Company operate the World of Hyatt® loyalty program, ALG Vacations®, Mr & Mrs Smith, Unlimited Vacation Club®, Amstar® DMC destination management services, and Trisept Solutions® technology services. For more information, please visit www.hyatt.com.

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