ABD Maestro unveils YELLO Designer Whisky, A Bold New Fusion Of Scotch And Indian Malts

Powerhouse Ranveer Singh and ABD Maestro quickly follow the launch of Rangeela Vodka with a Whisky custom-made for modern India.

ABD Maestro Pvt. Ltd., the super-premium and luxury spirits brand company and a subsidiary of Allied Blenders & Distillers (ABD), today announced the launch of YELLO Designer Whisky, a unique fusion of Scotch Malts and Indian Malt whiskies.

Following the launch of Rangeela Vodka from Ranveer Singh, Co-Founder and Creative Partner of ABD Maestro, the company’s YELLO Designer Whisky, introduces a breakthrough packaging that mirrors the pulse of modern India — expressive, youthful, and born to stand out. It grabs the spotlight for its colour, sleek lines, and the ‘whisky window’.

For the flamboyant whisky, YELLO fuses the best of Speyside and Highland Scotches with the richness of Indian Malts, which is making news globally. The result is an exceptional spirit that partners the distinctive characteristics of both worlds. The Scotch malts, matured in ex-bourbon oak, infuse YELLO with notes of vanilla caramel and gentle oak, while the Indian malts add warmth, richness, and a bold, lingering finish.

Bikram Basu, Managing Director of ABD Maestro Pvt. Ltd., commented, “YELLO is designed for an innovative, daring and youthful brand construct for product, packaging and communication. It’s born to stand out, with outstanding whisky sitting in the bottle. At ABD Maestro, we build with quality, creativity and consumers at its heart.”

As India rapidly progresses to a major global economy, the super-premium and luxury spirits segment is seeing strong growth. New-age consumers increasingly value self-expression and strong identity with the brands that they choose. YELLO Designer Whisky, bold in packaging, positioning and taste, talks to this new generation of confident, culture-forward consumers.

YELLO Designer Whisky has debuted in Maharashtra at a MRP of Rs. 2,700/- for a 750ML. Goa, West Bengal and markets of North India will follow in quick succession.

About ABD Maestro Private Limited

ABD Maestro Private Limited is a new super-premium and luxury spirits brand company and a subsidiary of ABD. The brands which ABD Maestro is marketing currently include Arthaus Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, Zoya Special Batch Gin and its flavours, Rangeela Contemporary Indian Vodka, Woodburns Contemporary Indian Malt Whisky, Pumori Small Batch Gin and Pink Gin, Segredo Aldeia Café and White Rums. Through its partnership with Roust Corporation, the company has introduced Russian Standard Vodka to India in three distinct segments: Original, Gold, and Platinum.

Nick Jonas And Priyanka Chopra Jonas Launch Beyond Type 1’s First Campaign In India - #TheBeyondType

A pathbreaking campaign redefining diabetes with real stories of people with

type 1 diabetes lived experience

YouTube link of campaign film - #TheBeyondType

Co-founder Nick Jonas, board member Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Beyond Type 1 today launch #TheBeyondType in India. Nick Jonas, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when he was 13 years old, co-founded the diabetes non-profit Beyond Type 1 10 years ago. #TheBeyondType is their first campaign in India. The campaign lifts up real lived experiences to challenge stigma and show that diabetes does not define those living with type 1 diabetes. It aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma and support grassroots organisations doing critical work on the ground.

India has more young people living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) than anywhere in the world, and the second highest number of people living with diabetes overall[1]. Yet awareness remains low and stigma persist.

The Beyond Type highlights incredible everyday people who are thriving with type 1 diabetes and following their dreams. They are the unstoppable type, the determined type, the relentless type, the inspiring type - they show that type 1 diabetes does not define you.

“India has extraordinary people living with Type 1 diabetes, yet their stories are rarely heard,” shared Priyanka Chopra Jonas. “I came to understand this community more deeply through my husband Nick, and I’ve witnessed firsthand the strength and determination that so many people living with T1D carry every single day. The Beyond Type brings a few of these stories forward, and shows that with proper care and access, diabetes does not define them or limit what they can achieve.”

“I know for myself how diabetes doesn’t have to limit you, but only when you have access to the right care, tools, and support,” says Nick Jonas. “That’s why we’re here in India, where awareness is low and stigma remains high, to help make that possible for everyone. Through my own family, I’ve come to love India deeply, and I’m proud of the progress already underway”.

#TheBeyondType launched on Instagram in a joint post from Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Nick Jonas and Beyond Type 1 who collectively have a combined reach of 135 million. The campaign captures individuals whose stories show that diabetes does not stop them from doing what they want to do: a triathlete Lt Col Kumar Gaurav; 13-year-old karate champion Mehrin Rana; pastry chef Nishant Amin; toy designer and entrepreneur Shreya Jain; dancer and actor Indu Thampy; and vegetable vendor and marathon runner Harichandran Ponnusamy. As Mehrin shares, “Diabetes is just a part of my life, not a limit. A person with type 1 can do everything in their life without any limits.”

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition, not something caused by lifestyle or age. Yet stigma keeps many families from recognising the early signs — excessive thirst, frequent urination, unusual fatigue and unexpected weight loss. When these signals are missed, diagnosis is delayed. By sharing real-life inspiring stories through #TheBeyondType, the campaign begins to break stigma and open the door to earlier awareness and understanding.

A recent study published in PLOS Global Public Health, Invisible Inequities in Type 1 Diabetes Care in India[2], reinforces the urgency of this work. Conducted in Karnataka with a small group, it found that many young people with T1D hide their diagnosis, some avoid or delay insulin injections in public to escape judgement, and families, especially girls, are pressured to stay silent due to marriage concerns. Healthcare providers reported that young people with T1D are frequently viewed as weak or treated differently in school and at work, showing how stigma shapes daily life and access to care.

The same commitment to lived experience that anchors #TheBeyondType also drives Beyond Type 1’s support for grassroots organisations working across high-need regions in India:

HRIDAY (Delhi–NCR): A youth-driven public health organisation strengthening school and community awareness about early signs and prevention.

Nityaasha Foundation (Pune, Maharashtra): Supporting children from underserved backgrounds living with T1D through education, guidance and medical assistance.

Gram Jyoti (Deoghar, Jharkhand): Bringing early health awareness into classrooms to help families better understand chronic conditions.

SAMATVAM Trust (Bangalore, Karnataka): Empowering girls with T1D through medical care, financial support and life skills training, helping them stay in school and build independent futures.

“At Beyond Type 1 we believe real change begins with the people closest to the work on the ground,” said Seema Srivastava, Beyond Type 1’s Director of Social Impact and Global Advocacy. “By partnering with grassroots organisations, we are helping families recognise early signs, reduce shame and misinformation, and access education, supplies and peer support.”

Learn more at BeyondType1.org/India

About Beyond Type 1

Beyond Type 1 is a global nonprofit changing what it means to live with diabetes, serving the world's largest digital diabetes community. Co-founded by Nick Jonas and Juliet de Baubigny in 2015, we provide tools, education, and support to help people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes survive, thrive, and drive innovation toward prevention and cures.

Visit BeyondType1.org to learn more.

Marriott International Celebrates 700th Hotel In Asia Pacific Excluding China With Opening Of Legacy Mekong, Can Tho In Vietnam

The milestone reinforces Marriott’s thoughtful growth strategy across the region as it expands beyond gateway cities into emerging destinations

Marriott International, Inc. today announced a landmark moment in its regional growth journey with the Legacy Mekong, Can Tho, Autograph Collection joining its portfolio, marking the company’s 700th property in Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC). The milestone underscores Marriott’s continued momentum across the region, reflecting its strategic focus on expanding thoughtfully into diverse destinations beyond traditional gateway cities.

Situated on a private islet along the Hau River, Legacy Mekong, Can Tho, Autograph Collection introduces the brand’s signature storytelling hospitality to the heart of Vietnam’s lush Mekong Delta. The property joins Vinpearl Landmark 81, Autograph Collection as the second Autograph Collection hotel in Vietnam. Each offers experiences that are “Exactly Like Nothing Else,” blending authentic cultural expression with distinctive design and heartfelt service.

“Introducing our 700th property in APEC is a proud moment that reflects the trust our owners, partners, and guests place in Marriott,” said Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. “Vietnam continues to be one of our most exciting growth markets, and the opening of the Legacy Mekong, Can Tho, Autograph Collection highlights our commitment to thoughtfully expanding our presence beyond major cities, introducing travelers to new destinations that are rich in culture, character, and opportunity.”

A Growing Presence Across Vietnam and the Region

With 30 open properties across Vietnam and a robust development pipeline of over 50 projects, Marriott continues to strengthen its presence across the country, spanning from major urban centers like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to emerging leisure destinations such as Cam Ranh, Phu Quoc and Ha Giang. Vietnam is rapidly becoming one of Asia’s most dynamic travel markets, welcoming over 17 million international visitors in the first 10 months of 2025, up more than 21% year on year, with strong inbound growth from key regional markets including China, South Korea, and ASEAN neighbors. This momentum positions Vietnam as a rising hub for both leisure and business travel within Asia Pacific.

This opening also marks another step in Marriott’s long-term growth strategy in APEC, where the company now operates 700 properties across 27 brands in 22 countries, with 400 more properties in the development pipeline. As part of the Marriott Bonvoy platform with nearly 260 million members globally, travelers can connect seamlessly to a world of rewards, experiences, and destinations across the region, underscoring Marriott’s commitment to offering more choice and deeper engagement in one of the fastest-growing travel regions in the world.

Introducing a Storied Outpost in the Heart of Mekong Delta

Surrounded by eight hectares of tropical gardens on Au Islet, Legacy Mekong, Can Tho immerses guests in the natural beauty and enduring rhythms of the Mekong Delta, known as the “Rice Basket of Vietnam, a three-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, the property captures the essence of riverside living through designs inspired by mangroves, banyan trees, and fruit orchards. Guests are welcomed with bracelets woven by palm leaves, herbal infusions, and traditional blessings before retreating to one of the 86 elegantly designed bungalows and private pool villas, each offering views of the river, lake, or garden.

Legacy Mekong, Can Tho spotlights an enchanting yet underexplored region of Vietnam, offering experience-seeking travelers authentic adventures, organic cuisine, and cultural traditions. Dining celebrates the Mekong’s rich culinary heritage, from locally sourced Vietnamese favorites to “Breakfast with a Story” - a dish paired with the tale of its origin.

Autograph Collection Hotels are inspired by a clear vision and story that makes each property individual, unique, and exactly like nothing else. Multi-sensory wellness offerings including a hydrotherapy spa, yoga and Pilates studio, and meditation pavilion offer indulgence for travelers while families will appreciate the engaging children’s club, while the courtyard pool, gong rituals, and herbal refreshments add to the sense of calm and connection. Keeping the storytelling alive, guests depart with a symbolic linen pouch of seeds and an invitation to “carry the Mekong home.”

For more information and reservations, visit: www.marriott.com/en-gb/hotels/vcalm-legacy-mekong-can-tho-autograph-collection-can-tho/overview.

Godrej Capital’s Aarohi Reaches ₹1,116 Crore In First-Year Bookings; Karnataka Emerges As The Largest Customer Market

· Aarohi has built an INR 552 crore asset base and onboarded over 1,600 customers within its first year, including 424 women from Karnataka, contributing 26% of the overall customer base.

· The Company is on track to on-board over 10,000 customers by 2028 under the initiative, strengthening women’s financial participation and empowerment.

Godrej Capital, a subsidiary of Godrej Industries, announced that its women-focused lending initiative, Aarohi, has crossed INR 1,116 crore in total loan bookings within its first year. Since launch in November 2024, Aarohi has built an INR 552 crore asset base and onboarded over 1,600 women customers across India. Karnataka has emerged as the largest contributor to Aarohi’s customer base, accounting for 26% of total onboarding, with 424 women borrowers across key cities including Bengaluru, Mangaluru, and Mysore.

According to National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog), only 3% of loans availed by women nationally are for business purposes, highlighting limited flow of credit towards their entrepreneurial needs. Aarohi, an initiative by Godrej Capital focuses on creating a more inclusive financial ecosystem for women through tailored credit offerings, skill-building initiatives, and opportunities for collaboration. By enabling women across the four C’s - as customers, channel partners, colleagues, and through CSR initiatives, Aarohi aims to deepen their participation and drive broader economic impact.

Speaking on this milestone, Manish Shah, MD and CEO, Godrej Capital, said “For India to unlock its full economic potential, our credit systems must be more inclusive, equitable, and intentionally designed for women. Despite their pivotal role in driving growth, women continue to face structural barriers across the financial ecosystem. Aarohi aims to bridge this gap by offering fair financial access, capability-building support, and a platform that strengthens their long-term economic participation. When women progress, businesses grow and communities thrive, Aarohi embodies our commitment to driving that momentum.”

Godrej Housing Finance Ltd (GHFL)., a subsidiary of Godrej Capital, contributed 56% of total bookings, driven by over INR 600 crore from Prime Home Loans, while Godrej Finance Ltd (GFL)., also a subsidiary, of Godrej Capital, accounted for the remaining 44%, supported by over INR 220 crore from Prime LAP.

Aarohi’s traction spans diverse customer profiles. Salaried customers under Prime Home Loans constitute 36% of the customer base and account for 50% of the booking value. Women entrepreneurs make up 55% of the portfolio across Business Loan and LAP products.

After Karnataka, Maharashtra emerges as the second largest contributors followed by Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana emerging as the next largest contributors.

Over the next two financial years, Godrej Capital aims to strengthen Aarohi’s impact by increasing penetration from 10% in FY26 to 16 % in FY27 and 22 % in FY28, with a target of onboarding more than 10,000 customers by FY28.

About Godrej Capital

Godrej Capital is the financial services arm of the Godrej Industries Group. It is a subsidiary of Godrej Industries and is the holding company for Godrej Housing Finance Limited & Godrej Finance Limited. Godrej Housing Finance Limited (GHFL) extends housing loans, and the Affordable Housing vertical is housed with GHFL. With a digital-first approach and a keen focus on customer-centric product innovation, both the subsidiaries of Godrej Capital offers Home Loans, Loans Against Property, and secured and unsecured Loans for Businesses. It is positioned to diversify into other customer segments and products.

GHFL and GFL collectively referred as “Company”. The Company is focused on building a long-term, sustainable retail financial services business in India, anchored on the Godrej Group's 128-year legacy of trust and excellence. Godrej Capital focuses on learning and development across its employee base and is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as a guiding principle. Godrej Capital has been certified as a Great Place to Work and was recognised by the Economic Times as the Best Organization for Women in 2023.

Godrej Capital currently has over 86 branches across Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.

Air India Express Takes Off From Nagpur With New Twice-Daily Services To Bengaluru

The new Nagpur–Bengaluru service enables access to the vast Air India Express network, offering convenient one-stop connectivity to around 30 domestic and seven international destinations.

Strengthening its presence further in Maharashtra, Air India Express, India’s first international value airline, inaugurated its operations from Nagpur. The airline now operates twice-daily flights between Nagpur and Bengaluru, its largest hub, enhancing connectivity and offering greater convenience to travellers.

The inaugural flight from Nagpur took off at 10:00 hrs and landed in Bengaluru at 12:05 hrs, while the first flight from Bengaluru to Nagpur departed at 07:25 hrs and arrived at 09:30 hrs. To commemorate the occasion, a special ceremony was held at Nagpur’s Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, where the first guests received a celebratory boarding pass.

Speaking about the launch, Aloke Singh, Managing Director, Air India Express, said, “With the commencement of our operations from Nagpur today, alongside our upcoming launch from the new Navi Mumbai International Airport, we are further strengthening our presence across Maharashtra. These additions reinforce our focus on enhancing connectivity between non-metro cities and our major hubs, particularly Bengaluru, which continues to grow as our key domestic hub. This expanded network enables guests to enjoy seamless one-stop access across India, the Gulf, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. As we scale our network, we look forward to welcoming more travellers to ‘Xplore More, and Xpress More’ with Air India Express.”

From Nagpur, the airline offers one-stop connectivity to 29 domestic destinations and seven international destinations. Across Maharashtra, Air India Express operates over 130 weekly direct flights from Mumbai and over 90 weekly direct flights from Pune. The airline will also begin direct flights from Navi Mumbai to Bengaluru and Delhi from 25th December 2025.

Bengaluru continues to serve as an important hub for the airline, with over 530 weekly direct flights, including services to recently launched destinations such as Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. The airline has also recently introduced direct flights from Bengaluru to Bangkok, Jeddah, Kuwait and Riyadh.

In addition to rapidly expanding its domestic network, Air India Express also announced a significant cultural milestone today - as the Official Travel Partner for the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, the airline is proud to be associated with one of India’s most iconic cultural events, which begins today and runs until 10 December 2025. To promote tourism to the region, the airline is offering a 15% discount on flights to and from Dimapur for travel until 15 December 2025, using the promo code HORNBILL on it’s website and mobile app. The airline has set up a Hornbill themed photobooth for travellers arriving at Dimapur Airport and a community art canvas inspired by traditional motifs at the Kisama Heritage Village festival site. Guests and social media fans and followers are invited to participate in a contest to win free flights by uploading destination photographs on Instagram, Facebook, or X, tagging @airindiax and using #XploreMore.

The airline recently unveiled its latest brand campaign ‘Xplore More, Xpress More’, encouraging travellers to immerse themselves in local culture and discover new experiences. The airline also unveiled the new cabin experience on its Boeing 737-8 aircraft recently. The upgraded cabin features seats with superior padding, wider armrests, and best-in-class legroom ranging from 29 to 38 inches. Each seat is equipped with in-seat USB charging ports, the cabins have ovens installed to serve hot ‘Gourmair’ meals, refreshed interiors with brand-new carpets, and advanced Boeing Sky Interior mood lighting, creating a modern, warm, and welcoming ambience that reflects the airline’s commitment to a comfortable and memorable flying experience.

The airline’s ‘Tales of India’ initiative celebrates the country’s artistic and cultural diversity through tail arts inspired by regional traditions and crafts. The initiative brings to life over 50 indigenous arts from 25 states, featuring on each of the airline’s new aircraft, including iconic Warli painting, exquisite Himroo and Paithani weaves from Maharashtra.

About Air India Express

Air India Express is A Tata Enterprise, operating over 500 daily flights that connect 45 domestic and 16 international destinations. The airline has a fleet of 115 modern aircraft, comprising 75 Boeing 737s and 40 Airbus A320s. As India’s most vibrant and inclusive airline, Air India Express embodies the spirit and confidence of India - warm, expressive, and proudly authentic. Encouraging travellers to ‘Xplore More, Xpress More’, the airline transforms flying into an experience that is personal and memorable.

With thoughtfully curated touches - from ‘Gourmair’ hot meals, comfortable seats, and refreshed interiors to exclusive loyalty benefits and seamless digital journeys - Air India Express blends smart technology with heartfelt Indian hospitality, helping guests travel their way and feel at home wherever they go.

International Conference On Integrative Approaches To Obesity And Metabolic Syndrome Held At IISc Bengaluru

International Conference on Integrative Approaches to Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome organized by CCRAS–Central Ayurveda Research Institute (CARI), Bengaluru, in collaboration with the IISc and NIMHANS was inaugurated on 1st December 2025 at IISc Bengaluru.

The event was organized to commemorate 57th foundation day of CCRAS. The conference brought together leading experts from Ayurveda, modern medicine, and allied scientific disciplines to deliberate on emerging challenges in the management of metabolic disorders. Renowned national and international speakers participated, reflecting the Government of India’s continued emphasis on evidence-based integrative healthcare. The programme was inaugurated by Dr.BN Gangadhar, Former Chairman, NMC & National Ayush Chair, Professor Emeritus Integrative Medicine, NIMHANS. Prof. Navakanta Bhat, Dean, CeNSE, IISc, and Dr.Koustubha Upadhyaya, Advisor (Ay.) Ministry of Ayush, were other Guests of honor. Dr. Rabinarayan Acharya, Director General, CCRAS, noted that the deliberations, to be continued on 1st and 2nd December 2025 are expected to provide insights into bridging traditional Ayurveda knowledge with contemporary biomedical research for strengthening future frameworks for integrative care and translational research. Dr.Srikanth .

N, Deputy Director General CCRAS gave a bird’s eye view of the conference and the journey of CCRAS. Dr.Sulochana Bhat, Organising Secretary & Incharge, CARI, expressed that scientific interactions, workshops, and discussions are expected to pave the way for new models of integrative care, translational research, and informed health policy. This event included the felicitation of former CCRAS employees, launching of Incubation centre at CARI, Bengaluru, launch of 10 books, one journal special issue and one scheme flyer, along with launch of Kulgeet which marks a significant milestone in journey of CCRAS.

This program includes Plenary Sessions by invited speakers along with Parallel sessions with the presentations from scientists, academicians and PG, PhD on 1 st -2 nd Dec 2025 , Symposium on “Translational Science and Integrative Medicine Approaches to Management of Type 2 Diabetes, Obesity and Dyslipidemia” and a Workshop on Nanotechnology & Molecular Biology on 2nd Dec. And a Pre Conference Virtual Scientific deliberations were held from 25 th to 27 th Nov 2025.

The event witnessed about 700 delegates. The deliberations include 2 keynote and 14 plenary session talks. About 267 oral scientific paper presentations and 95 virtual paper presentations, 55 poster presentations and 15 poster presentations.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Records 5.91 Lakh Unit Sales In November 2025

Registered 25% year-on-year growth in total sales over last year.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) reported total sales of 5,91,136 units in November 2025. This includes 5,33,645 units in domestic sales and 57,491 units in exports.

HMSI registered a 25% year-on-year (YOY) growth compared to November 2024.

For the Year-to-Date (YTD) period of FY26 (April–November 2025), HMSI recorded total sales of 42,32,748 units, comprising 38,12,096 units sold domestically and 4,20,652 units exported.

HMSI’s Key Highlights of November 2025:

Road Safety: HMSI continued its commitment towards road safety by organizing awareness campaigns across various cities nationwide including Nagpur, Nashik, Khammam, Dwarka, Bokaro, Haldwani, Karnal, Bahadurgarh, Bikaner, Cooch Behar, Shajapur, Theni and Belgaum. These campaigns encouraged responsible road behaviour through interactive learning.

HMSI also celebrated Children’s Month with a vibrant Kids Carnival across all its manufacturing facilities, 10 Traffic Training Parks (TTPs) and 6 Safety Driving Education Centers (SDECs). The initiative, themed “Safety Explorers: Journey Through Traffic Land,” aimed to make road safety learning engaging and fun for children while promoting safe habits from an early age.

Additionally, HMSI held a Road Safety Convention in Coimbatore and Varanasi encouraging principals and teachers to build road safety awareness among children from an early age.

Corporate Social Responsibility: Marking a significant step in advancing inclusive skill development, HIF announced the launch of Kaushal Vikas Kendra for Persons with Disabilities in partnership with Sarthak Educational Trust in Bengaluru, focussing on empowering Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) through structured vocational training and career-oriented interventions.

Honda India Foundation (HIF) announced the launch of a Career Progression Program for General Duty Assistants (GDAs) trained under its flagship CSR initiative, Project Pragati. It aims to help healthcare workers move into specialized technical roles through structured training and assured employment at Amrita Hospital.

HIF also announced the launch of Sports Talent Nurturing Program in collaboration with Manav Rachna Sports Academy (MRSA), Faridabad to identify and nurture young talent from underprivileged backgrounds by providing access to professional coaching, scientific training and exposure in Badminton and Table Tennis.