Fiserv, Inc. (NASDAQ: FISV), a leading global provider of payments and financial services technology, today announced the appointment of Pratip Banerji as General Manager for India and South Asia. In this expanded role, Pratip will lead the Fiserv client franchise in India and across South Asia, driving growth and advancing the delivery of innovative banking, financial solutions and payments solutions to financial institutions and fintech players.
Pratip brings more than 35 years of leadership experience across banking, payments and technology. For over the past eight years, he has led—and will continue to lead—Fiserv’s Financial Solutions business in India and Sri Lanka, where the company is a market leader in issuer processing. Under his leadership, Fiserv supports nine of the top twelve banks in India with a unified, enterprise account-processing platform spanning payment cards, loans, prepaid products, and commercial card solutions.
“Pratip brings deep market insights, proven leadership and a strong focus on client partnerships, qualities that are critical as we continue to scale our business across India and South Asia,” said Andrew Gelb, Chief Operating Officer of Financial Solutions at Fiserv. “This region remains a key growth area for Fiserv, and Pratip’s leadership will further accelerate innovation while strengthening our presence across the products, solutions and services we offer in an all-important India market.”
About Fiserv: Fiserv, Inc. (NASDAQ: FISV), a Fortune 500™ company, moves more than money. As a global leader in payments and financial technology, the company helps clients achieve best-in-class results through a commitment to innovation and excellence in areas including account processing and digital banking solutions; card issuer processing and network services; payments; e-commerce; merchant acquiring and processing; and Clover®, the world’s smartest point-of-sale system and business management platform. Fiserv is a member of the S&P 500® Index and one of TIME Magazine’s Most Influential Companies™. Visit fiserv.com and follow on social media for more information and the latest company news.
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Tuesday, June 23, 2026
Interio By Godrej Reports INR 4,000 Crore Revenue In FY26; Targets 25% Growth In FY27
* Expansion across 100 new cities and strong growth in online business drive FY26 performance
* Launches the Tubular Range as its entry into the Outdoor Furniture category; expands portfolio with Gaming Furniture
Interio by Godrej, a leading furniture brand from the Godrej Enterprises Group, reported revenue of INR 4,000 crore for FY26, registering a year-on-year growth of 12% over FY25. The business expanded its presence across 100 new cities during the year, while New Product Introduction (NPI) sales contributed 22% to the overall business.
Interio plans to grow revenue by 25% in FY27, supported by continued retail expansion, deeper market penetration, growth in online sales and the introduction of new furniture categories. The company also plans to add 102 new stores during FY27, with a focus on strengthening its presence across North and East India.
Speaking on the performance and outlook, Swapneel Nagarkar, Business Head and Executive Vice President, Interio by Godrej said, “The Indian furniture industry is entering a new phase of evolution where consumer expectations are moving beyond functionality towards design, flexibility, technology integration and overall living experiences. The Indian furniture market is expected to grow from to USD 45.52 billion by 2031.[1] Modern Indian homes today are becoming more adaptive, multifunctional and expressive of personal lifestyles. This is influencing how consumers evaluate furniture across aesthetics, usability, durability and convenience.”
He further added, “The sector is witnessing increasing formalisation through evolving quality and compliance standards, which is strengthening consumer trust and creating long-term opportunities for organised brands. We believe the next phase of growth in the industry will be driven by brands that can combine scale, design, manufacturing strength, technology integration and strong physical retail experiences. As homes continue to evolve, consumers are also reimagining balconies, terraces and outdoor spaces as extensions of their living environments. This has guided the development of our Outdoor Furniture category with the Tubular Range, alongside our Gaming Furniture portfolio, creating furniture solutions that are functional, contemporary and aligned with the way India lives today.”
Over the last three years, Interio’s e-commerce business has grown 14 times and now contributes 15% to the overall furniture business During FY26, the company expanded its delivery and installation network from 1,200 pin codes to more than 20,000 pin codes across the country and introduced 24-hour delivery and installation services across all state capital cities.
As part of its New Product Innovation strategy, Interio has entered the Outdoor Furniture category with the launch of its new Tubular Range, while also expanding its portfolio with a dedicated Gaming Furniture range. The Tubular Range has been designed to respond to the growing preference for balconies, terraces and outdoor spaces as extensions of modern Indian homes. Inspired by the timeless design language of tubular steel, the collection combines lightweight aluminium construction, weather-resistant materials and ergonomic design to create furniture that is durable, functional and aesthetically suited for outdoor living. This range is aimed at customers looking for furniture solutions that support hosting, outdoor living, multifunctional usage and contemporary design preferences.
Interio continued to strengthen its omnichannel capabilities during FY26 through supply chain transformation, technology upgrades, and digital-first customer engagement initiatives. This included a complete overhaul of its technology stack, refreshed UI and UX under its rebranding initiative and the introduction of AI-based product recommendation systems that offer tailored furniture suggestions based on browsing behaviour, customer interactions, sales patterns and offers.
Interio also expanded affordability initiatives for consumers through Zero Cost EMI options for up to 12 months, exchange programs for old furniture, extended warranty offerings, online-exclusive product ranges, and special offers through leading banking partners. To support expansion in price-sensitive markets, Interio continues to strengthen its portfolio of Eco products targeted at Tier 2 and Tier 3 consumers.
About Interio by Godrej
Interio by Godrej is India’s leading furniture and design brand for homes and workspaces, from the Godrej Enterprises Group, offering products and solutions that combine style, functionality and durability. It offers a wide-ranging portfolio that spans residential interiors (furniture, soft furnishings, and services) and commercial and institutional environments including offices, schools, hospitals, laboratories, and turnkey AV solutions.
Today, Interio by Godrej enjoys the largest retail footprint across the country with 1000+ retail stores and serves customers both online and offline. It operates five state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities across Mumbai, Khalapur, Haridwar, Shirwal, and Bhagwanpur.
Driven by a passion for innovative and sustainable design, the brand has been recognised with 75+ design awards and has secured 900+ registered designs.
* Launches the Tubular Range as its entry into the Outdoor Furniture category; expands portfolio with Gaming Furniture
Interio by Godrej, a leading furniture brand from the Godrej Enterprises Group, reported revenue of INR 4,000 crore for FY26, registering a year-on-year growth of 12% over FY25. The business expanded its presence across 100 new cities during the year, while New Product Introduction (NPI) sales contributed 22% to the overall business.
Interio plans to grow revenue by 25% in FY27, supported by continued retail expansion, deeper market penetration, growth in online sales and the introduction of new furniture categories. The company also plans to add 102 new stores during FY27, with a focus on strengthening its presence across North and East India.
Speaking on the performance and outlook, Swapneel Nagarkar, Business Head and Executive Vice President, Interio by Godrej said, “The Indian furniture industry is entering a new phase of evolution where consumer expectations are moving beyond functionality towards design, flexibility, technology integration and overall living experiences. The Indian furniture market is expected to grow from to USD 45.52 billion by 2031.[1] Modern Indian homes today are becoming more adaptive, multifunctional and expressive of personal lifestyles. This is influencing how consumers evaluate furniture across aesthetics, usability, durability and convenience.”
He further added, “The sector is witnessing increasing formalisation through evolving quality and compliance standards, which is strengthening consumer trust and creating long-term opportunities for organised brands. We believe the next phase of growth in the industry will be driven by brands that can combine scale, design, manufacturing strength, technology integration and strong physical retail experiences. As homes continue to evolve, consumers are also reimagining balconies, terraces and outdoor spaces as extensions of their living environments. This has guided the development of our Outdoor Furniture category with the Tubular Range, alongside our Gaming Furniture portfolio, creating furniture solutions that are functional, contemporary and aligned with the way India lives today.”
Over the last three years, Interio’s e-commerce business has grown 14 times and now contributes 15% to the overall furniture business During FY26, the company expanded its delivery and installation network from 1,200 pin codes to more than 20,000 pin codes across the country and introduced 24-hour delivery and installation services across all state capital cities.
As part of its New Product Innovation strategy, Interio has entered the Outdoor Furniture category with the launch of its new Tubular Range, while also expanding its portfolio with a dedicated Gaming Furniture range. The Tubular Range has been designed to respond to the growing preference for balconies, terraces and outdoor spaces as extensions of modern Indian homes. Inspired by the timeless design language of tubular steel, the collection combines lightweight aluminium construction, weather-resistant materials and ergonomic design to create furniture that is durable, functional and aesthetically suited for outdoor living. This range is aimed at customers looking for furniture solutions that support hosting, outdoor living, multifunctional usage and contemporary design preferences.
Interio continued to strengthen its omnichannel capabilities during FY26 through supply chain transformation, technology upgrades, and digital-first customer engagement initiatives. This included a complete overhaul of its technology stack, refreshed UI and UX under its rebranding initiative and the introduction of AI-based product recommendation systems that offer tailored furniture suggestions based on browsing behaviour, customer interactions, sales patterns and offers.
Interio also expanded affordability initiatives for consumers through Zero Cost EMI options for up to 12 months, exchange programs for old furniture, extended warranty offerings, online-exclusive product ranges, and special offers through leading banking partners. To support expansion in price-sensitive markets, Interio continues to strengthen its portfolio of Eco products targeted at Tier 2 and Tier 3 consumers.
About Interio by Godrej
Interio by Godrej is India’s leading furniture and design brand for homes and workspaces, from the Godrej Enterprises Group, offering products and solutions that combine style, functionality and durability. It offers a wide-ranging portfolio that spans residential interiors (furniture, soft furnishings, and services) and commercial and institutional environments including offices, schools, hospitals, laboratories, and turnkey AV solutions.
Today, Interio by Godrej enjoys the largest retail footprint across the country with 1000+ retail stores and serves customers both online and offline. It operates five state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities across Mumbai, Khalapur, Haridwar, Shirwal, and Bhagwanpur.
Driven by a passion for innovative and sustainable design, the brand has been recognised with 75+ design awards and has secured 900+ registered designs.
Veeam Warns Indian Enterprises Face AI Accountability Gap Ahead Of Data Law Deadline
VeeamON Tour India 2026 continues in Bengaluru as enterprises face converging pressure: a fast-scaling digital economy, tightening data protection regulation, and a measurable gap between AI confidence and AI accountability.
Veeam® Software, the Data and AI Trust Company, brought VeeamON Tour India 2026 to Bengaluru, convening enterprise technology leaders, government and Public Sector Undertaking stakeholders, partners and customers to address one of the most pressing challenges facing Indian organizations: how to govern, protect and trust data as AI adoption accelerates and regulatory obligations tighten.
India's digital economy accounts for approximately 13% of GDP and is growing at roughly twice the pace of overall economic growth, according to MeitY. At the same time, the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act moves toward full enforcement in May 2027, with penalties for non-compliance reaching up to INR 250 crore per breach. For enterprises scaling AI against this backdrop, the question is no longer whether to act — it is whether they can demonstrate readiness when required.
In tandem, a recent Veeam research points to the scale of the challenge: while 80% of senior leaders are confident, they can scale AI safely, fewer than one in three can produce comprehensive audit evidence on demand. Nearly half acknowledge that confidence is based more on intuition than proof — a gap that DPDP's accountability requirements will directly expose.
"As organizations move from AI experimentation to enterprise-scale deployment, the conversation is no longer just about data protection, it is about establishing trust across data, identity and AI systems," said Sandeep Bhambure, Vice President and Managing Director, India & SAARC, Veeam Software. "The rise of agentic AI is reshaping how enterprises operate, but it also raises new questions around accountability, governance, access control and resilience. Organizations need the ability to prove trust, recover confidently and govern AI-driven environments with the same rigor they apply to their critical data assets."
Sessions at the Bengaluru event covered DPDP compliance readiness, data localization, ransomware preparedness, sovereign-ready infrastructure and AI governance. Veeam showcased the DataAI Command Platform, Veeam Data Platform v13.1 preview, the Data and AI Trust Maturity Model, and Veeam Intelligence ResOps for Microsoft 365 — innovations first announced at VeeamON 2026 in New York and now being introduced to Indian enterprise audiences.
At the Bengaluru stop of VeeamON Tour India 2026, discussions focused on securing the intersection of data, identity and agentic AI, AI governance, DPDP compliance readiness, cyber resilience, ransomware preparedness and data access security. In his keynote, Sandeep Bhambure highlighted the emergence of a new "center of gravity" for enterprises, where trusted data, secure identities and AI systems must work together to enable responsible innovation at scale. Veeam also showcased the DataAI Command Platform, Veeam Data Platform v13.1 preview, the Data and AI Trust Maturity Model, and Veeam Intelligence ResOps for Microsoft 365, innovations first unveiled at VeeamON 2026 in New York and now being introduced to Indian enterprise audiences.
The event also highlighted Bharat CyberSuraksha, Veeam's initiative to strengthen India's cybersecurity talent pipeline, with plans for 100 Centres of Excellence across universities and colleges, 100,000 certifications, and industry partnerships supporting 25,000 job pathways into enterprise security and resilience roles.
Register for VeeamON Sydney on July 30 (or attend virtually). For more information on Veeam, visit https://www.veeam.com.
Veeam® Software, the Data and AI Trust Company, brought VeeamON Tour India 2026 to Bengaluru, convening enterprise technology leaders, government and Public Sector Undertaking stakeholders, partners and customers to address one of the most pressing challenges facing Indian organizations: how to govern, protect and trust data as AI adoption accelerates and regulatory obligations tighten.
India's digital economy accounts for approximately 13% of GDP and is growing at roughly twice the pace of overall economic growth, according to MeitY. At the same time, the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act moves toward full enforcement in May 2027, with penalties for non-compliance reaching up to INR 250 crore per breach. For enterprises scaling AI against this backdrop, the question is no longer whether to act — it is whether they can demonstrate readiness when required.
In tandem, a recent Veeam research points to the scale of the challenge: while 80% of senior leaders are confident, they can scale AI safely, fewer than one in three can produce comprehensive audit evidence on demand. Nearly half acknowledge that confidence is based more on intuition than proof — a gap that DPDP's accountability requirements will directly expose.
"As organizations move from AI experimentation to enterprise-scale deployment, the conversation is no longer just about data protection, it is about establishing trust across data, identity and AI systems," said Sandeep Bhambure, Vice President and Managing Director, India & SAARC, Veeam Software. "The rise of agentic AI is reshaping how enterprises operate, but it also raises new questions around accountability, governance, access control and resilience. Organizations need the ability to prove trust, recover confidently and govern AI-driven environments with the same rigor they apply to their critical data assets."
Sessions at the Bengaluru event covered DPDP compliance readiness, data localization, ransomware preparedness, sovereign-ready infrastructure and AI governance. Veeam showcased the DataAI Command Platform, Veeam Data Platform v13.1 preview, the Data and AI Trust Maturity Model, and Veeam Intelligence ResOps for Microsoft 365 — innovations first announced at VeeamON 2026 in New York and now being introduced to Indian enterprise audiences.
At the Bengaluru stop of VeeamON Tour India 2026, discussions focused on securing the intersection of data, identity and agentic AI, AI governance, DPDP compliance readiness, cyber resilience, ransomware preparedness and data access security. In his keynote, Sandeep Bhambure highlighted the emergence of a new "center of gravity" for enterprises, where trusted data, secure identities and AI systems must work together to enable responsible innovation at scale. Veeam also showcased the DataAI Command Platform, Veeam Data Platform v13.1 preview, the Data and AI Trust Maturity Model, and Veeam Intelligence ResOps for Microsoft 365, innovations first unveiled at VeeamON 2026 in New York and now being introduced to Indian enterprise audiences.
The event also highlighted Bharat CyberSuraksha, Veeam's initiative to strengthen India's cybersecurity talent pipeline, with plans for 100 Centres of Excellence across universities and colleges, 100,000 certifications, and industry partnerships supporting 25,000 job pathways into enterprise security and resilience roles.
Register for VeeamON Sydney on July 30 (or attend virtually). For more information on Veeam, visit https://www.veeam.com.
Two-thirds Of Indians (66%) Have Encountered A Health Or Wellness Scam: McAfee Health & Wellness Research*
* From fake pharmacies to fraudulent wellness offers, online health scams are becoming harder to spot. McAfee helps people stay safer from suspicious links, messages, and websites.
As health and wellness content continues to dominate online conversations, new research from McAfee reveals a growing wave of scams, misinformation, and AI-generated deception targeting Indian consumers. The findings highlight how scammers are increasingly exploiting trust in influencers, wellness trends, and emerging AI technologies to spread misleading health advice and fraudulent schemes.
McAfee research* reveals that 71% of India especially young adults are being targeted by health scams which are increasingly engineered to exploit urgency, trust, and everyday online behavior. Nearly one-third of Indians surveyed reported being pushed to take immediate action through tactics such as visiting a website promoted in an ad (31%), clicking links shared via social media or messaging apps (31%), downloading an app or file (26%), or scanning a QR code (23%).
The scams themselves are becoming increasingly sophisticated and wide-ranging — from fake weight-loss or fitness products (23%) and misleading information about diseases or medical products (20%), to fake supplements or vitamins (18%) and fraudulent medical treatments or “cures” (18%). Consumers are also encountering impersonation scams involving healthcare providers or pharmacies (13%) and even government health agencies (10%), underscoring how cybercriminals are blending health misinformation with social engineering tactics to make scams appear more credible, urgent, and difficult to detect.
“Health and wellness have become a bigger part of people’s daily lives online, but so have the risks,” said Pratim Mukherjee, Senior Director of Engineering, McAfee India. “Scammers are getting better at making fake health advice, products, and offers look credible, especially as AI makes these scams easier to create and harder to spot. That’s why it’s so important for Consumers to pause, verify information through trusted sources, and think twice before clicking suspicious links or offers.”
Social Media Remains the Epicenter of Health Advice and Health Scams
Health scams are no longer confined to suspicious websites or spam emails. They are increasingly appearing across social media feeds, messaging apps, online advertisements, and influencer-led content.
64% of Indians surveyed encounter health or wellness advice on social media at least weekly
More than one-third (34%) of people surveyed encounter health advice daily or multiple times per day on social media
Social media is also the #1 place people surveyed encounter health scams (53%), followed by messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram (37%), phone calls (33%), websites or online ads (30%), email (26%), online marketplaces (24%), text messages (23%), and in-person interactions (19%)
Influencers Continue to Shape Health Decisions
Misinformation is increasingly exploiting the trust consumers place in celebrities and influencers, making manipulated health content appear more credible and authentic. In fact, 55% of Indians say celebrity or influencer endorsements impact their likelihood to trust health advice, highlighting how scammers are leveraging emotional trust, credibility, and social influence to make misleading wellness claims appear authentic and believable.
More than half of Indians surveyed (54%) say they have seen health or wellness content that appeared to be endorsed by a celebrity or public figure and was later revealed or suspected to be fake, misleading, or AI-generated
Among those who have encountered celebrity or influencer-endorsed health content, the leading platforms are YouTube (68%), Instagram (67%), Facebook (43%), social media advertisements (42%), online ads or sponsored posts (30%), X/Twitter (25%), messaging apps (22%), websites or blogs (19%), Snapchat (18%), traditional media (16%), email (15%), and text messages (13%)
66% of 25–34-year-olds have seen fake or suspicious celebrity-linked health content
How to Protect Yourself from Health & Wellness Scams
McAfee helps consumers fight back by combining digital education with proactive AI protection. Its technology scans text, QR codes, and websites to flag phishing and scams before they cause harm-helping consumers verify what's real before they click, share, or buy.
McAfee's Top Tips to Stay Safe Online:
Protect Your Privacy: Limit how much personal data you share.
Automate Safety: Use AI-powered scam protection tools to block threats before they reach you.
Keep Funds Secure: Never send money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency to someone you haven't met in person.
Flag Red Flags: Avoid sudden requests involving QR codes, instant payments, or verification codes.
*Consumer Research Methodology
A McAfee survey focused on online scams and their impact on consumers, was conducted online in January 2026. A total of 7,000 adults globally participated, including 1,000 adults age 18+ in India.
About McAfee
McAfee Corp. is a global leader in online protection for consumers. Focused on protecting people in an always-online world, McAfee’s solutions adapt to user needs, empowering individuals and families with secure, intuitive tools. For more information, visit www.mcafee.com.
As health and wellness content continues to dominate online conversations, new research from McAfee reveals a growing wave of scams, misinformation, and AI-generated deception targeting Indian consumers. The findings highlight how scammers are increasingly exploiting trust in influencers, wellness trends, and emerging AI technologies to spread misleading health advice and fraudulent schemes.
McAfee research* reveals that 71% of India especially young adults are being targeted by health scams which are increasingly engineered to exploit urgency, trust, and everyday online behavior. Nearly one-third of Indians surveyed reported being pushed to take immediate action through tactics such as visiting a website promoted in an ad (31%), clicking links shared via social media or messaging apps (31%), downloading an app or file (26%), or scanning a QR code (23%).
The scams themselves are becoming increasingly sophisticated and wide-ranging — from fake weight-loss or fitness products (23%) and misleading information about diseases or medical products (20%), to fake supplements or vitamins (18%) and fraudulent medical treatments or “cures” (18%). Consumers are also encountering impersonation scams involving healthcare providers or pharmacies (13%) and even government health agencies (10%), underscoring how cybercriminals are blending health misinformation with social engineering tactics to make scams appear more credible, urgent, and difficult to detect.
“Health and wellness have become a bigger part of people’s daily lives online, but so have the risks,” said Pratim Mukherjee, Senior Director of Engineering, McAfee India. “Scammers are getting better at making fake health advice, products, and offers look credible, especially as AI makes these scams easier to create and harder to spot. That’s why it’s so important for Consumers to pause, verify information through trusted sources, and think twice before clicking suspicious links or offers.”
Social Media Remains the Epicenter of Health Advice and Health Scams
Health scams are no longer confined to suspicious websites or spam emails. They are increasingly appearing across social media feeds, messaging apps, online advertisements, and influencer-led content.
64% of Indians surveyed encounter health or wellness advice on social media at least weekly
More than one-third (34%) of people surveyed encounter health advice daily or multiple times per day on social media
Social media is also the #1 place people surveyed encounter health scams (53%), followed by messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram (37%), phone calls (33%), websites or online ads (30%), email (26%), online marketplaces (24%), text messages (23%), and in-person interactions (19%)
Influencers Continue to Shape Health Decisions
Misinformation is increasingly exploiting the trust consumers place in celebrities and influencers, making manipulated health content appear more credible and authentic. In fact, 55% of Indians say celebrity or influencer endorsements impact their likelihood to trust health advice, highlighting how scammers are leveraging emotional trust, credibility, and social influence to make misleading wellness claims appear authentic and believable.
More than half of Indians surveyed (54%) say they have seen health or wellness content that appeared to be endorsed by a celebrity or public figure and was later revealed or suspected to be fake, misleading, or AI-generated
Among those who have encountered celebrity or influencer-endorsed health content, the leading platforms are YouTube (68%), Instagram (67%), Facebook (43%), social media advertisements (42%), online ads or sponsored posts (30%), X/Twitter (25%), messaging apps (22%), websites or blogs (19%), Snapchat (18%), traditional media (16%), email (15%), and text messages (13%)
66% of 25–34-year-olds have seen fake or suspicious celebrity-linked health content
How to Protect Yourself from Health & Wellness Scams
McAfee helps consumers fight back by combining digital education with proactive AI protection. Its technology scans text, QR codes, and websites to flag phishing and scams before they cause harm-helping consumers verify what's real before they click, share, or buy.
McAfee's Top Tips to Stay Safe Online:
Protect Your Privacy: Limit how much personal data you share.
Automate Safety: Use AI-powered scam protection tools to block threats before they reach you.
Keep Funds Secure: Never send money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency to someone you haven't met in person.
Flag Red Flags: Avoid sudden requests involving QR codes, instant payments, or verification codes.
*Consumer Research Methodology
A McAfee survey focused on online scams and their impact on consumers, was conducted online in January 2026. A total of 7,000 adults globally participated, including 1,000 adults age 18+ in India.
About McAfee
McAfee Corp. is a global leader in online protection for consumers. Focused on protecting people in an always-online world, McAfee’s solutions adapt to user needs, empowering individuals and families with secure, intuitive tools. For more information, visit www.mcafee.com.
A Decade Of Defying Limits: Hero Motorsports Team Rally Celebrates 10 Years Of Global Rally Racing Excellence
* Extends Its Partnership with Amaury Sports Organization For 5 Years And Launches India’s Next Dakar Hero Program
* Renewed its partnership with Amaury Sport Organization (ASO), organizers of the iconic Dakar Rally, to secure long-term collaboration.
* Launched 'India's Next Dakar Hero' Program (INDH) to discover, develop, and champion the next generation of Indian rally-raid talent.
* Inducted 18-year-old Shlok Ghorpade, one of India's rising off-road motorcycle racers, into Hero MotoSports Team Rally.
Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, celebrated the 10th anniversary of Hero MotoSports Team Rally at its Centre for Innovation and Technology (CIT), Jaipur, marking a decade of India’s rise on the global rally racing stage. This milestone celebration brought together top racing stars including, 2024 FIM World Rally-Raid Champion (W2RC) Ross Branch, South America's Nacho Cornejo, South African rally-raid and motocross rider Michael Docherty, and India’s motocross and supercross rider Shlok Ghorpade, alongside India's pioneering professional women bikers Somyya “Moksha’ Chaudhary.
The event was attended by key team architects of Hero MotoSports Team Rally including its Head of MotoSports and Team Manager, Wolfgang (Waffi) Fischer, and Spanish rally expert AND Head of National MotoSports, Jordi Grau, along dealers, partners and MotoSports fraternity.
As Hero MotoSports Team Rally enters its second decade, the Company has announced three strategic initiatives that will shape the future of its rally racing journey. First, the Company renewed its partnership with Amaury Sport Organization organizers of the iconic Dakar Rally and the FIM World Rally-Raid Championship. Marking the milestone occasion, Dr. Pawan Munjal, Executive Chairman, Hero MotoCorp announced ‘India’s Next Dakar Hero’ (INDH) – a first-of-its-kind program designed to identify and develop India’s next-generation of rally - raid talent. Concluding the announcements, the team formally welcomed rising Indian off-road racer Shlok Ghorpade into the Hero MotoSports Team.
Hosted at the Company’s state-of-the-art Research and Development facility, at Jaipur, the event also featured an exclusive showcase of Hero MotoSports Team Rally’s Dakar machines and riders. This included a special off-road performance by the team’s stars, offering guests a thrilling glimpse into the relentless skill, endurance, and spirit that have defined Hero MotoSports’ legendary decade on the world’s toughest rally stages.
Speaking on this milestone, Dr. Pawan Munjal, Executive Chairman, Hero MotoCorp, said, “Over the past decade, Hero MotoSports Team Rally has evolved from a bold ambition into a globally respected rally racing team, proudly representing India on the world stage. This milestone celebrates our past achievements while firmly defining our vision for the future.
The renewal of our partnership with ASO strengthens our long-term commitment to global rally racing. Furthermore, the India’s Next Dakar Hero program reflects our deep belief that India possesses immense untapped motosports talent waiting to be discovered and nurtured. By welcoming Shlok Ghorpade to the team, we aim to build a sustainable pathway for homegrown Indian riders to compete and excel at the highest levels of the sport. Together, these initiatives represent the next chapter in our journey to create a lasting rally-raid legacy for India.”
Established in 2016, Hero MotoSports Team Rally was founded by Hero MotoCorp to test its cutting -edge technology on the world's toughest terrains and to elevate India’s presence in the international rally circuit. The team has since established itself as one of the world’s leading rally-raid outfits, competing at the highest levels of international motorsport, including the Dakar Rally and the FIM World Rally-Raid Championship. Over the past decade, the team has delivered multiple podium finishes and landmark victories, firmly cementing India’s position on the global rally racing map.
Strengthening a Long-Term Global Partnership
As part of its commitment to the future of rally-raid racing, Hero MotoCorp announced the extension of its partnership with ASO (Amaury Sport Organization) for 5 years. The renewed association reflects the shared commitment of Hero MotoSports Team Rally and ASO towards advancing the sport globally, while creating greater opportunities for emerging rally talent.
Launch of ‘India’s Next Dakar Hero’ (INDH)
Building on a decade of rally-raid expertise and Hero MotoCorp’s successful national racing programs, Hero MotoSports Team Rally launched ‘India’s Next Dakar Hero’ (INDH). The program is focused on identifying, training and nurturing India’s top young off-road racing talent through a structured journey from national racing to the international rally-raid stage. Participants will undergo a rigorous two-to-three-year development program focused on riding technique, navigation, physical conditioning and endurance training required to compete at the highest level of international rally racing.
This initiative builds upon Hero MotoSports Team Rally’s existing rider development ecosystem, leveraging the team’s decade of global rally experience to nurture and train the next generation of champions. The first milestone of this journey was achieved in September 2025, when national racing ace Arun Thayappa made his international rally-raid debut at the Cierzo Rally in Spain. Competing aboard the Hero 450 Rally prototype, his debut marked a landmark moment for Indian motorsport.
Shlok Ghorpade Joins Hero MotoSports Team Rally
As a significant step in its long-term talent development strategy, Hero MotoSports has signed 18-year-old Shlok Ghorpade from Satara, Maharashtra. Shlok has completely swept the National India Supercross circuit, claiming every major title available to him and finishing as the fastest national racer in the India Supercross League. As part of his development program, Shlok has already begun training alongside FIM World Rally-Raid Champion Ross Branch and the core Hero MotoSports Team Rally riders. He is also scheduled to participate in an intensive race simulation program in Morocco as part of a dedicated pathway to Dakar Rally.
As Hero MotoSports Team Rally embarks on its second decade, these initiatives collectively reinforce Hero MotoCorp’s commitment to advancing Indian motorsport, strengthening its global rally presence and building future generations of Indian riders to compete among the world’s best.
About Hero MotoCorp
Hero MotoCorp, headquartered in New Delhi, India, is the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters for 25 consecutive years with ~$5 billion revenue. The Company’s global footprint spans 52 countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, Central and Latin America with a customer base of over 130 million. The Company operates eight manufacturing facilities - six in India and one each in Colombia and Bangladesh - along with two Research and Development centres: Centre for Innovation and Technology (CIT) in India and Tech Centre Germany (TCG).
Hero MotoCorp is driving the transition to electric mobility through VIDA, powered by Hero. Strategic alliances with Harley-Davidson and Zero Motorcycles support the design and development of premium and electric motorcycles, respectively. Further demonstrating its commitment to the EV future, the Company has made strategic investments in two- and three-wheeler EV manufacturers, Ather Energy and Euler Motors. Hero MotoCorp is the only Indian two-wheeler manufacturer listed on the prestigious Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI).
Hero MotoCorp’s Executive Chairman, Dr. Pawan Munjal, was named to the 2025 TIME100 Climate List of the 100 most influential leaders driving business climate action.
Beyond mobility, Hero MotoCorp is a major global promoter of sports, including golf, football, field hockey, and cricket. Hero MotoSports Team Rally is India's flag bearer in global rally racing.
* Renewed its partnership with Amaury Sport Organization (ASO), organizers of the iconic Dakar Rally, to secure long-term collaboration.
* Launched 'India's Next Dakar Hero' Program (INDH) to discover, develop, and champion the next generation of Indian rally-raid talent.
* Inducted 18-year-old Shlok Ghorpade, one of India's rising off-road motorcycle racers, into Hero MotoSports Team Rally.
Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, celebrated the 10th anniversary of Hero MotoSports Team Rally at its Centre for Innovation and Technology (CIT), Jaipur, marking a decade of India’s rise on the global rally racing stage. This milestone celebration brought together top racing stars including, 2024 FIM World Rally-Raid Champion (W2RC) Ross Branch, South America's Nacho Cornejo, South African rally-raid and motocross rider Michael Docherty, and India’s motocross and supercross rider Shlok Ghorpade, alongside India's pioneering professional women bikers Somyya “Moksha’ Chaudhary.
The event was attended by key team architects of Hero MotoSports Team Rally including its Head of MotoSports and Team Manager, Wolfgang (Waffi) Fischer, and Spanish rally expert AND Head of National MotoSports, Jordi Grau, along dealers, partners and MotoSports fraternity.
As Hero MotoSports Team Rally enters its second decade, the Company has announced three strategic initiatives that will shape the future of its rally racing journey. First, the Company renewed its partnership with Amaury Sport Organization organizers of the iconic Dakar Rally and the FIM World Rally-Raid Championship. Marking the milestone occasion, Dr. Pawan Munjal, Executive Chairman, Hero MotoCorp announced ‘India’s Next Dakar Hero’ (INDH) – a first-of-its-kind program designed to identify and develop India’s next-generation of rally - raid talent. Concluding the announcements, the team formally welcomed rising Indian off-road racer Shlok Ghorpade into the Hero MotoSports Team.
Hosted at the Company’s state-of-the-art Research and Development facility, at Jaipur, the event also featured an exclusive showcase of Hero MotoSports Team Rally’s Dakar machines and riders. This included a special off-road performance by the team’s stars, offering guests a thrilling glimpse into the relentless skill, endurance, and spirit that have defined Hero MotoSports’ legendary decade on the world’s toughest rally stages.
Speaking on this milestone, Dr. Pawan Munjal, Executive Chairman, Hero MotoCorp, said, “Over the past decade, Hero MotoSports Team Rally has evolved from a bold ambition into a globally respected rally racing team, proudly representing India on the world stage. This milestone celebrates our past achievements while firmly defining our vision for the future.
The renewal of our partnership with ASO strengthens our long-term commitment to global rally racing. Furthermore, the India’s Next Dakar Hero program reflects our deep belief that India possesses immense untapped motosports talent waiting to be discovered and nurtured. By welcoming Shlok Ghorpade to the team, we aim to build a sustainable pathway for homegrown Indian riders to compete and excel at the highest levels of the sport. Together, these initiatives represent the next chapter in our journey to create a lasting rally-raid legacy for India.”
Established in 2016, Hero MotoSports Team Rally was founded by Hero MotoCorp to test its cutting -edge technology on the world's toughest terrains and to elevate India’s presence in the international rally circuit. The team has since established itself as one of the world’s leading rally-raid outfits, competing at the highest levels of international motorsport, including the Dakar Rally and the FIM World Rally-Raid Championship. Over the past decade, the team has delivered multiple podium finishes and landmark victories, firmly cementing India’s position on the global rally racing map.
Strengthening a Long-Term Global Partnership
As part of its commitment to the future of rally-raid racing, Hero MotoCorp announced the extension of its partnership with ASO (Amaury Sport Organization) for 5 years. The renewed association reflects the shared commitment of Hero MotoSports Team Rally and ASO towards advancing the sport globally, while creating greater opportunities for emerging rally talent.
Launch of ‘India’s Next Dakar Hero’ (INDH)
Building on a decade of rally-raid expertise and Hero MotoCorp’s successful national racing programs, Hero MotoSports Team Rally launched ‘India’s Next Dakar Hero’ (INDH). The program is focused on identifying, training and nurturing India’s top young off-road racing talent through a structured journey from national racing to the international rally-raid stage. Participants will undergo a rigorous two-to-three-year development program focused on riding technique, navigation, physical conditioning and endurance training required to compete at the highest level of international rally racing.
This initiative builds upon Hero MotoSports Team Rally’s existing rider development ecosystem, leveraging the team’s decade of global rally experience to nurture and train the next generation of champions. The first milestone of this journey was achieved in September 2025, when national racing ace Arun Thayappa made his international rally-raid debut at the Cierzo Rally in Spain. Competing aboard the Hero 450 Rally prototype, his debut marked a landmark moment for Indian motorsport.
Shlok Ghorpade Joins Hero MotoSports Team Rally
As a significant step in its long-term talent development strategy, Hero MotoSports has signed 18-year-old Shlok Ghorpade from Satara, Maharashtra. Shlok has completely swept the National India Supercross circuit, claiming every major title available to him and finishing as the fastest national racer in the India Supercross League. As part of his development program, Shlok has already begun training alongside FIM World Rally-Raid Champion Ross Branch and the core Hero MotoSports Team Rally riders. He is also scheduled to participate in an intensive race simulation program in Morocco as part of a dedicated pathway to Dakar Rally.
As Hero MotoSports Team Rally embarks on its second decade, these initiatives collectively reinforce Hero MotoCorp’s commitment to advancing Indian motorsport, strengthening its global rally presence and building future generations of Indian riders to compete among the world’s best.
About Hero MotoCorp
Hero MotoCorp, headquartered in New Delhi, India, is the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters for 25 consecutive years with ~$5 billion revenue. The Company’s global footprint spans 52 countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, Central and Latin America with a customer base of over 130 million. The Company operates eight manufacturing facilities - six in India and one each in Colombia and Bangladesh - along with two Research and Development centres: Centre for Innovation and Technology (CIT) in India and Tech Centre Germany (TCG).
Hero MotoCorp is driving the transition to electric mobility through VIDA, powered by Hero. Strategic alliances with Harley-Davidson and Zero Motorcycles support the design and development of premium and electric motorcycles, respectively. Further demonstrating its commitment to the EV future, the Company has made strategic investments in two- and three-wheeler EV manufacturers, Ather Energy and Euler Motors. Hero MotoCorp is the only Indian two-wheeler manufacturer listed on the prestigious Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI).
Hero MotoCorp’s Executive Chairman, Dr. Pawan Munjal, was named to the 2025 TIME100 Climate List of the 100 most influential leaders driving business climate action.
Beyond mobility, Hero MotoCorp is a major global promoter of sports, including golf, football, field hockey, and cricket. Hero MotoSports Team Rally is India's flag bearer in global rally racing.
Elevated for the Season: Emporio Armani Introduces Its Summer 2026 Watch Collection
This season, summer style takes on a polished and refined mood through luminous metallic finishes, sculpted silhouettes and elevated detailing designed to move seamlessly from daytime sophistication to evening glamour. Inspired by warm golden light, contemporary architecture and understated Italian elegance, the season embraces accessories that feel timeless yet distinctly modern, balancing versatility with statement appeal.
Reflecting this spirit, Emporio Armani introduces its Summer 2026 watch collection featuring a sophisticated selection of timepieces for both men and women. The collection brings together contemporary designs, elegant rose gold finishes, refined bracelet silhouettes, versatile everyday styles, and a thoughtfully curated gift set. Crafted with distinctive detailing, versatile construction, and contemporary finishes, each timepiece captures the brand’s signature approach to modern luxury and effortless wearability.
FOR HIM
World Explorer
Defined by solar-powered innovation and contemporary design, these versatile silhouettes are crafted for life in motion.
AR11784
Framed in a 43mm black stainless steel case, this watch features a sleek black sunray dial and a matching stainless steel bracelet. Powered by a solar movement with a five-month power reserve on a full charge, it combines everyday functionality with a clean, contemporary aesthetic. Finished with a sapphire crystal and 100m water resistance, it is a versatile piece that transitions effortlessly from daily wear to travel and weekend outings.
AR11785
Bringing a fresh burst of colour to the wrist, this 42mm World Explorer watch pairs a vibrant blue sunray dial with a matching silicone strap and bioplastic bezel. Powered by a Japanese solar movement, it delivers up to four months of runtime on a full charge, offering effortless reliability for everyday wear. Its sporty design and lightweight construction make it an easy companion for everything from weekend outings to active days on the go.
FOR HER
Elegance in a New Shape
A modern evolution of form and proportion, where sculpted square cases meet luminous dials and refined metallic finishes for elevated everyday elegance.
AR11743
With its 26.5 x 35mm square stainless steel case and lustrous mother-of-pearl dial, this timepiece is paired with a rose gold-tone stainless steel bracelet that enhances its refined appeal. The warm finish adds a touch of elegance to the design, creating a sophisticated and versatile silhouette that transitions effortlessly from day to evening.
AR11745
This 26.5 x 35mm watch combines a glossy mother-of-pearl dial with a two-tone stainless steel bracelet and butterfly deployant clasp. The mix of silver and gold tones makes it a versatile piece that works effortlessly across different styles and occasions.
ROSE GOLD EXPRESSIONS
Warm rose gold accents bring a softer, elevated character through refined detailing and jewellery-inspired bracelet craftsmanship.
AR11762
Blending refined design with everyday versatility, this 32mm timepiece features a mother-of-pearl dial framed by a fluted rose gold-tone bezel and matching stainless steel bracelet. The warm metallic finish and elegant detailing make it an effortless accessory for both daytime sophistication and evening dressing.
AR11767
The AR11767 captures a romantic summer mood through its soft pink sunray dial accented with crystal detailing and rose gold-tone roman numeral markers. Finished with an intricately designed bracelet and polished case construction, the watch blends jewellery-inspired elegance with contemporary sophistication for elevated seasonal styling.
AR11775
Refined with a distinctive oval silhouette, this Sinfonia watch features a 26 x 34mm case highlighting a white mother-of-pearl dial with roman numeral indexes. Set on an intricate multi-link polished rose gold-tone stainless steel bracelet, it brings a graceful balance of elegance and modern femininity, making it an effortless dress accessory.
GIFTING SET FOR HER
AR80086SET
Blending elegance with jewellery-inspired detailing, this 32mm watch features a white mother-of-pearl dial accented by a crystal inlay along the outer rim. Roman numeral indexes enhance its classic appeal, set within a gold-tone stainless steel case and finished with a refined two-tone bracelet. Completing the gift set is a delicate gold-tone bracelet adorned with an eagle logo charm, mother-of-pearl accents, and a crystal ring for a polished, coordinated finish.
ABOUT EMPORIO ARMANI
Launched by Giorgio Armani as a pioneer line in 1981, Emporio Armani is specifically intended for the younger generations. Today the world-renowned brand has a strong experimental and metropolitan style, reflecting all of the characteristics of elegance typical of the Armani aesthetics, depicted in a current and incisive language. The iconic logo –the stylised eagle– continues to be a symbol of belonging and sharing, a meeting point that leaves room for freedom of expression. The brand –into which the Armani Collezioni and Armani Jeans lines were merged as of the Spring/Summer 2018 season– upholds its original identity: a “container” that offers a wide range of pieces and accessories for every function and occasion, from sportswear to formal to elegant, addressing various clientele targets with a widespread message. The brand stands out with an avant-garde style, capable of identifying and anticipating fashion and communication trends. The same spirit carries over to the accessories, with a vast selection for both men and women: footwear, bags, small leather goods and soft accessories.
An Exquisite Royal Thai Culinary Residency Comes To Blue Ginger At Taj West End, Bengaluru
This June, Blue Ginger at Taj West End, Bengaluru presents an extraordinary celebration of Royal Thai cuisine as the acclaimed Thai Pavilion from Taj City Centre Gurugram arrives for a limited-period culinary showcase. A refined ode to Thailand’s rich culinary heritage, the experience brings together the elegance of Royal Thai cuisine, immersive craftsmanship, and the evocative flavours of Southeast Asia in an intimate and sophisticated setting.
Helmed by acclaimed Thai Master Chef Prajuab Shoosridam, fondly known as Chef Juab, the experience unveils an elegant tapestry of Thailand’s rich culinary heritage, where every dish is crafted in harmonious balance with the five quintessential Thai flavours spicy, sour, sweet, salty, and bitter.
The menu further journeys through refined regional expressions with creations such as Yum Som Ao Mamuang, a refreshing pomelo and mango salad finished with chilli coriander dressing; Rak Bua Phad Namphung, crisp lotus root glazed with honey chilli in true Thai style; and Koong Thord Kratiem Prik Thai, stir-fried prawns infused with garlic and pepper. Signature mains including Kai Phad Med Mamuang, wok-tossed chicken with cashew nuts and bell peppers, Phad Kai Bai Kraprao, fragrant basil-flavoured ground chicken, and Tohu Phad Tao See, silken tofu in a delicate black bean and makroot sauce, further showcase the richness, depth, and artistry of Thai gastronomy.
Details:
Dates: 25th June to 28th June 2026
Venue: Blue Ginger, Taj West End, Bengaluru
Lunch: 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM
Dinner: 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Menu: À la carte
Set against the enchanting ambience of Blue Ginger and the timeless luxury of Taj West End, Bengaluru, this exclusive showcase promises an immersive dining experience that captures the warmth, elegance, and soulful flavours of Thailand through every thoughtfully curated creation.
For reservations, call 080 6660 5660 | +91 74836 38902.
Helmed by acclaimed Thai Master Chef Prajuab Shoosridam, fondly known as Chef Juab, the experience unveils an elegant tapestry of Thailand’s rich culinary heritage, where every dish is crafted in harmonious balance with the five quintessential Thai flavours spicy, sour, sweet, salty, and bitter.
The menu further journeys through refined regional expressions with creations such as Yum Som Ao Mamuang, a refreshing pomelo and mango salad finished with chilli coriander dressing; Rak Bua Phad Namphung, crisp lotus root glazed with honey chilli in true Thai style; and Koong Thord Kratiem Prik Thai, stir-fried prawns infused with garlic and pepper. Signature mains including Kai Phad Med Mamuang, wok-tossed chicken with cashew nuts and bell peppers, Phad Kai Bai Kraprao, fragrant basil-flavoured ground chicken, and Tohu Phad Tao See, silken tofu in a delicate black bean and makroot sauce, further showcase the richness, depth, and artistry of Thai gastronomy.
Details:
Dates: 25th June to 28th June 2026
Venue: Blue Ginger, Taj West End, Bengaluru
Lunch: 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM
Dinner: 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Menu: À la carte
Set against the enchanting ambience of Blue Ginger and the timeless luxury of Taj West End, Bengaluru, this exclusive showcase promises an immersive dining experience that captures the warmth, elegance, and soulful flavours of Thailand through every thoughtfully curated creation.
For reservations, call 080 6660 5660 | +91 74836 38902.
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