Author: Neel Achary

‘Sea Hubs’ can boost economy, tourism and inspire creative professionals: Experts

Panaji, June 2023– Creating ‘Sea Hubs’, coastal co-working spaces along Goa’s shoreline not only has the potential to revitalise the state’s bouquet of tourism offerings, but can also provide a shot in the arm for the state’s economy and attract promising talent to the state.

At last week’s StartUp20 Engagement Group meeting, Goa’s IT Minister Rohan Khaunte had said that the state government was in the process of setting up 12 co-working spaces or ‘Sea Hubs’ along the shoreline which would be fashioned as creative hubs where young professionals could work in the lap of natural beauty.

According to V Padhmanabhan, Associate Professor, Organisational Behaviour and Human Resources at the Goa Institute of Management (GIM), setting up work hubs in a natural setting such as beaches could boost creativity, lessen stress and promote general health, while also boosting output and job satisfaction.

“The move can attract good talent, who can happily include leisure and relaxation into their everyday routines thanks to the existence of working spaces in these locations. For a better work-life balance, employees can take breaks or leave work early to engage in outdoor activities. People can remove or greatly minimise their need for long, stressful commutes by working in such settings,” Padmanabhan said.

Goa, Padmanabhan said, would greatly benefit from such co-working spaces which could potentially draw a variety of people, including national, international talent and experts from different fields.

“The presence of co-working zones in these areas can foster networking, teamwork and knowledge sharing,” he also said.

Young professionals, especially those in the creative and technology sectors in the recent past — during and after the pandemic — had made a beeline for Goa at a time when remote working was in vogue. Goa also witnessed a spurt of co-working spaces, where professionals, instead of hiring individual office spaces, could work in co-working spaces, thereby reducing establishment costs.

Creation of Sea Hubs, according to Aaron Fernandez, founder of Kilowott, a Goa-based technology company, would push the co-working space envelope further by creating a more empowering eco-system.

“This would elevate Goa’s status on the business map and also create an empowering ecosystem where young, emerging professionals can harness their creativity and talents while maintaining a harmonious work-life balance,” Fernandez said.

Fernandez also said that the Goa government’s plans to create a ‘Design Village’ and a ‘Creative Hub’ for artists, innovators and fin-tech, fashion-tech VFX and augmented reality and virtual reality professionals respectively would provide a nurturing environment to push the boundaries of creativity further.

Rohan Warty, secretary of the Goa Technology Association, says that the move to create Sea Hubs would also create more jobs in the state, while also aiding the advancement of talent and technology in Goa.

“We have seen co-working spaces on a small scale already existing informally in Goa post the pandemic. However, now with government support, it will provide a more structured opportunity for professionals across the globe. Increased presence of businesses will directly contribute to the economy. Hopefully, this initiative will attract big companies by showing them the scope for scalability in Goa,” he said.

‘Sea Hubs’ according to Nilesh Shah, president of the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa, would create a symbiotic relationship between work and leisure, which he says, holds the key to reviving tourism in the state, which is a vital pillar of the state’s economy.

“In the wake of Covid, a new phenomenon emerged: the work-cation, bringing together professionals from diverse backgrounds to work remotely. Hotels seized this opportunity, introducing the concept of workation. It presents a golden chance for nomadic employees and those craving a home office experience. With its breath-taking landscapes, Goa stands as the perfect destination for these intrepid explorers,” Shah said.

Veet promises professional self-waxing results with Veet Professional® Wax strips

New Delhi, June 12, 2023: Veet®, the world leader in depilatory products, will provide consumers professional waxing like results with Veet Professional® wax strips. Brand ambassador Katrina Kaif in a new 360-degree campaign, ‘Professional Waxing made easy #VeetItToBelieveIt’, focuses on a superior, effective, and convenient hair removal solution that can help achieve professional waxing like results.

The Veet Professional® ready-to-use full-body wax strips offers smooth skin for up to 28 days* by removing the shortest* of hair. The new product pack comes with a unique QR code that directs the consumers to how-to-use videos, to educate and guide consumers who are trying to learn the right way to wax themselves at home.

Speaking about the campaign, Dilen Gandhi, Regional Marketing Director, South Asia – Health & Nutrition, Reckitt, said, “Effective and quick self-grooming solutions at home are a growing choice for consumers today and Veet is consistently working towards offering a superior and seamless experience, ensuring remarkable results within minutes. Our latest campaign ‘Professional Waxing made easy #VeetItToBelieveIt’ with brand ambassador Katrina Kaif takes self-waxing to the next level with professional waxing like results that can be achieved by consumers themselves. Veet is proud to be able to deliver this experience to millions across India.”

Anupama Ramaswamy, Chief Creative Officer Havas Worldwide India said, “Veet Professional® wax strips puts back the power of waxing in every woman’s hands. Not just the professional waxing like results, but the ease of using it is also bound to surprise everyone. Therefore, the TVC’s story demanded a surprise element. So, while the latest campaign highlights the professional waxing like results one can achieve with Veet Professional®, it also uses the brand ambassador Katrina Kaif in a surprising manner.”

The new ‘Professional Waxing made easy #VeetItToBelieveIt’ campaign engages young women of today who are constantly in search of professional yet convenient solutions for everyday tasks. The new TVC features a young woman who is getting ready for work and manages to wax in minutes using Veet Professional® wax strips which provides her the confidence and ease to wear what she wants and begin her day leaving her friends shocked. The TVC also features brand ambassador Katrina Kaif highlighting Veet Professional® wax strips as a quick, easy and reliable solution to get professional waxing like results by yourself, anywhere and anytime.

The Veet Professional® wax strips are available in retail stores across India and e-commerce websites at a starting price of INR 109 for Half Body Wax Strips (8 Strips).

TVC Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcVVYOSqjh4

Director: Punit Malhotra

Production House: Little Lamb Films

Creative Agency: Havas Worldwide India

Experience the best of Korean cuisine as Conrad Seoul flies to Conrad at the Garden City – Bengaluru

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Korea and India, Conrad Bengaluru commemorates the occasion through a unique festival. Graced by The Embassy of the Republic of Korea and The Korea Tourism Organization, the curated vision celebrates the two nations through its rich culture, tradition and heritage.

Offering a tantalizing array of vibrant and exquisite flavours of Korea at Conrad Bengaluru, prepare to be swept away by a meticulously curated menu, masterfully crafted by renowned chefs from Conrad Seoul – Chef Lee and Chef Kim, along with the culinary genius Chef Indra, Conrad Bengaluru. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey showcasing the sizzle of Korean delicacies, making this feast an extraordinary event that truly must be bookmarked!

The exclusive food festival will showcase a tantalizing selection of traditional Korean dishes, crafted by the esteemed team of chefs of Conrad.

The menu will feature an array of iconic delicacies, Daeha Muchim– Prawn Salad with Pine Nut Sauce, Maekom Bulgogi Kimbap – Spicy Beef Rice Roll, Ganjang Lobsterjang – Soy marinated Lobster, Bulgogi Burger – Soy marinated Beef Slider with Ginseng Soy Sauce, Yanggogi Jorim – Braised Lamb with Soy Sauce, Chamchi-Hwae Dupbap – Mixed Rice with Tuna Sashimi, Vinegar Gochujang, Hwangjae Haemool Ramyun – Spicy Ramen with Lobster, Crab and Scallop and Yak Gwa – Deep-fried Korean Pastry with Traditional Syrup to name a few.

Paired alongside the national drink of Korea, the traditionally crafted beverage made from part rice and part vodka is best enjoyed when chilled and neat. Available in flavours such as strawberry, blueberry and classic, Soju is indeed a refreshing delight all the way from the 14th century.

“We are elated to be associating with the talented team from Conrad Seoul showcasing a display of vibrant and exquisite flavors of the Korean cuisine. Further embracing and fostering the relationship of two very diverse cultures and traditions, it brings us great pleasure to join hands with a nation such as Korea, denoting rich heritage and history similar to India. We seek to continue inspiring and create bonds of absolute friendship, and we are truly thrilled to bring the magic of Korea to Bengaluru”, said Mr. Srijan Vadhera, General Manager, Conrad Bengaluru.

“It gives us great pleasure to commemorate the ties of two very strong and diverse nations, India & Korea. Embracing the cultural partnership, we are delighted to celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Korea and India at Conrad Bengaluru, a splendid display of culture, tradition and food, a collaborative yet significant association between Conrad Seoul & Conrad Bengaluru”, said His Excellency Chang Jae-bok, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to India.

Chef Prasad Metrani, Director of Culinary, Conrad Bengaluru adds “This Korean Food Festival is a testament to our commitment to providing our guests with unforgettable dining experiences that highlight culinary diversity. We are confident that the combination of our talented chefs from Conrad Seoul and Conrad Bengaluru will create an extraordinary culinary event of relishing & delectable flavours.”

Chef Kim, Conrad Seoul adds, “I am thrilled to be part of the Korean Food Festival at Conrad Bengaluru. It is an incredible opportunity to showcase the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Korean cuisine to the discerning diners in Bengaluru. I look forward to creating a memorable culinary experience and sharing the authentic flavours and recipes of Korea”.

Get ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other with Conrad Bengaluru’s latest addition to their menu – authentic Korean cuisine! This scrumptious offering is guaranteed to leave food lovers in the city wanting more, while also being a game changer for enthusiasts of Korean culture.

Don’t miss out on this must-visit dining experience that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the heart of Korea.

Food promotion from: 16th June to 26th June 2023 at MIKUSU, Conrad Bengaluru | INR 3000 plus taxes onwards, for two (à la carte)

For Reservations: +9188844 00194 | +9180221 44352

Eternal Glamour: Navrathan Jewellers Exquisite Diamond Jewellery

Diamonds are a symbol of luxury, timelessness, sophistication, strength and romance. Because of its exceptional qualities, it’s one of the most sought-after gems for jewellery today. For centuries, diamond jewellery has symbolised the strength of love and marriage, and it has become a classic choice for commitment. Modern women around the world now wear diamond jewellery to express themselves, and symbolise and commemorate significant moments including milestones in their lives. Despite popular belief, diamonds come in many different shapes, colours, and sizes, and there is a diamond out there for every woman and every budget. Navrathan Jewellers offers a stunning selection of diamond jewellery, providing a wide range of choices to suit every individual’s taste and style. Their collection showcases exquisite craftsmanship and intricate designs, making it easy for customers to find the perfect piece that reflects their unique personality and adds a touch of luxury to any ensemble.

Similarly, a diamond necklace is a must-have for every woman’s jewellery box. It’s a widely accepted fact that diamonds are a girl’s best friend. Navrathan Jewellers necklaces featuring diamonds come in an array of styles, from the classic diamond solitaire pendant to a unique and intricate necklace featuring multiple diamonds. Navrathan Jewellers diamond necklace, weighing approximately 68 grams with 18kt gold, is adorned with stunning diamonds weighing approximately 7.5 ct. With a price of approximately Rs. 11.25L, this diamond necklace is a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and timeless beauty of Navrathan Jewellers designs.

Navrathan Jewellers diamond necklace is not only a stunning piece of jewellery but also a significant investment that will be treasured for a lifetime if properly cared for. It is an accessory that exudes sophistication and glamour, making a lasting impression no matter the occasion. Whether it’s a diamond bangle, a diamond necklace, or any other diamond jewellery piece, Navrathan Jewellers exquisite designs are sure to add a touch of elegance and allure to any look.

Ginni Filaments Ltd., the Leader sets a milestone with the first-ever 99.9% ‘paaniwipes’ for babies, manufactured in India

New Delhi, June 12, 2023: Ginni Filaments Ltd has launched ultra-pure water wipes, a first-of-its-kind in India, in the baby care segment. The pioneering product, containing 99.9% water, is the most pure and gentle wipe with minimal ingredients, developed understanding the unique properties of baby and infant skin.

Marketed and registered as ‘paaniwipes’ under the brand name ‘Adore Baby’, these high-water content wipes gently cleanse babies’ skin, providing a soothing and refreshing experience for babies including infants during clean-up sessions. These wipes are made up of incredibly soft, skin-friendly, and breathable nonwoven spunlace fabric, which protects babies’ silky-smooth skin from rashes and redness. Additionally, the wipes contain aloe vera, which helps to hydrate the skin and reduce inflammation.

With no added alcohol, parabens, chlorine, SLS, SLES, sulfates, or fragrances, these wet wipes are among the gentlest available in the market. Meticulously manufactured and adhering to the highest safety standards, the product has undergone dermatological testing and is FDA approved.

Commenting on the product, Yash Jaipuria, the Chief Executive of Ginni Filaments Ltd. said, “The gentle skin of babies is prone to irritation and inflammation from the chemicals used in normal wet wipes. Keeping their distinct needs in mind, we have carefully created this product that is high in water content and is loaded with the benefits of aloe vera. This is the first type of wet wipe manufactured in India that contains 99.9% water and is free from any kind of chemicals and artificial fragrance. Going forward, we plan to produce more such products for our other partners.”

Ginni Filaments has started producing this pioneering product for Rondeyvoo Eurasia, under the brand name ‘Adore Baby Wipes’. They are the purest wet wipes on the planet for the purest souls.

Kotak Life signs MoU with Directorate General Resettlement (DGR) to Provide Employment Opportunities for Ex-Servicemen

New Delhi, 12th June 2023: Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Company Limited (Kotak Life) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Directorate General Resettlement (DGR), an Inter Service organization functioning directly under the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare (Ministry of Defense) to offer employment opportunities to Ex-Servicemen of the Defence Services.

As per the MoU, Kotak Life will recruit Ex-Servicemen for various roles in the company and its affiliates by offering jobs across multiple distribution channels. This initiative aligns with Kotak Life’s recruitment strategy to foster diversity and tap into the immense potential of the disciplined, hardworking, and resilient individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting our nation.

Major General Sharad Kapur, YSM, SM, Director General Resettlement said, “Our partnership with Kotak Life increases the visibility of our ex-servicemen in the corporate sector and helps in achieving the objectives of providing skilled manpower and giving them a dignified second career.”

Mahesh Balasubramanian, Managing Director, Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Company said, “Through this initiative, it is our sincere endeavour to acknowledge the service of our ex-servicemen bravehearts who have served and protected our nation. The partnership aims to leverage the skills and dedication of our armed force personnel by offering to continue serving the nation through life insurance coverage.

The collaboration will enable retired Ex-Servicemen to maintain a work-life balance while staying close to their families in their hometowns.”

eye square to offer brands understand meaningful attention through its “Live in Context” tool

12th June 2023: eye square, an innovative market research company, has launched Live in Context, a unique tool to help brands measure the useful attention of their customers. Instead of only using self-reported data, the tool watches how users act in real-world situations. This complete way to measure attention gives businesses answers to important questions to devise impactful marketing strategies.

The tool/software offers aid to brands in assessing the performance of new products within a competitive market, gauging their success. It provides valuable insights to find pack images that foster increased customer interaction. Moreover, it assists in evaluating the impact of pricing and promotions on conversion rates, enhancing decision-making. By improving product image galleries, it enhances the visual appeal and engagement of potential customers. Additionally, it helps to determine the efficacy of investing in A+ content, enabling informed decisions. In the end, these findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of ROI and enable the refinement of marketing strategies for enhanced effectiveness.

Volga Benjamin Fernandez, Director (India), eye square, said, “Paying attention that truly matters goes beyond mere time spent or superficial interest. It requires creating impactful experiences that leave a lasting impression. By using perception research methods like eye square‘s “Live in Context” tool, companies can gain valuable insights into user behavior, enhancing their marketing strategies. Understanding attention‘s nonlinear nature and the key determining factors unlocks digital campaigns’ full potential, leading to exceptional results in today’s dynamic digital landscape.”

“Instead of just looking at the amount of time spent on an ad, it’s better to test its effectiveness based on the purchasing power of its target group.” – Jeff Bander- President, eye square INC

Furthermore, according to eye square‘s research, longer ad viewing does not guarantee improved recall or recognition. Comparative analysis across platforms offers deeper insights. Differentiating between image ads and performance ads is crucial. While branding ads capture attention, performance ads drive higher sales. Thus, examining factors determining attention‘s impact on engagement is essential. Evaluating effectiveness based on target audience purchasing behavior yields superior results. Understanding attention nuances and tailoring strategies can empower businesses to resonate with their audience and make informed decisions.

SAYA Gold Avenue’s Family Grows Bigger With 1001 Families

SAYA Group, NCR’s renowned real estate developer, delightfully announces the expansion of the SAYA Gold Avenue family with the inclusion of 1001 new families. SAYA Gold Avenue, a one-of-a-kind residential project, has established itself as a symbol of luxury and elevated living, and the addition of these families further enhances the project’s stature.

SAYA Gold Avenue perfectly blends modernity, luxury, comfort, and affordability. The exceptionally high towers are a testament to upscale and trendy architecture. Every aspect of the project has been meticulously designed to cater to the discerning taste of the residents. Located in the heart of Indirapuram and close to NH-24, it offers unparalleled connectivity for a truly comfortable living experience. Residents enjoy easy access to various amenities and recreational facilities, ensuring a convenient and enriching lifestyle.

Mr. Vikas Bhasin, Managing Director, SAYA Group, said, “We are thrilled to hit the mark of hosting 1001 families in the SAYA Gold Avenue community. The overwhelming response to our project is a testament to our commitment to excellence and our dedication to creating homes that truly elevate the residents’ lifestyles. We sincerely appreciate the faith our buyers have shown in us and strive to provide them with the best-in-class living experience. SAYA Gold Avenue is more than just a residential project; it is a testament to our vision of creating spaces that combine luxury, comfort, and affordability.”

The SAYA Group remains committed to delivering projects that exceed expectations and redefine modern living standards. With the inclusion of 1001 families, SAYA Gold Avenue continues to establish itself as a landmark project that sets new benchmarks in residential development.