29, Jan 2026
Kauvery Hospital Treats Rare Pancreatic Tumour Using Advanced Technology After Patient Presents with Giddiness
Chennai, Jan 29: Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani, successfully diagnosed a rare and elusive pancreatic tumour known as an insulinoma in a 60-year-old woman, causing persistently low blood sugar and frequent loss of consciousness.
The hospital followed a stepwise diagnostic approach. Initial imaging studies, including a contrast CT scan and a specialised PET scan, did not clearly identify the cause. The breakthrough came with specialised blood tests measuring insulin and C-peptide levels, followed by a targeted endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), which ultimately helped locate the tumour.
The tumour’s small size and challenging location added a further layer of complexity. Measuring just 1.3 cm, it was located at the neck of the pancreas and surrounded by vital structures. The surgical team therefore opted for a robotic-assisted approach, using robotic intraoperative ultrasound (RIOUS) to accurately localise and safely remove the tumour.
The surgery was successful, with the patient’s blood sugar levels started normalising immediately after the procedure. She made a rapid recovery and was able to return to normal activity the very next day.
The diagnostic team was led by Dr. P. Basumani, Senior Consultant and Director, Kauvery Institute of Digestive Sciences, Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani, while the robotic procedure was performed by Dr. Swaminathan Sambandam, Senior Consultant and Lead, Multi-Organ Transplant (Liver, Kidney, Pancreas and Small Intestine), Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani.
In his comments Dr. Basumani said,
“Insulinomas are extremely difficult to locate, especially when they are very small. In this case, even advanced imaging did not give us clear answers. Specialised blood tests combined with focused Endoscopic Ultrasound Evaluation helped us precisely identify the tumour.”
Dr. Swaminathan Sambandam said,
“This was a technically demanding surgery. Tumours of this size and location are extremely challenging to operate on through conventional methods. Robotic surgery, supported by intraoperative ultrasound, gave us unmatched precision and control. Very few hospitals in the country have access to this level of technology.”
In his comments, Dr Aravindan Selvaraj, Co-founder and Executive Director, Kauvery Group of Hospitals, said,
“This case reflects the strength of clinical teamwork, perseverance in diagnosis, and the role of advanced technology in handling rare pancreatic and endocrine tumours. It reinforces Kauvery Hospital’s commitment to clinical excellence, advanced diagnostics and state-of-the-art robotic surgery”.
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- By Neel Achary
29, Jan 2026
Shweta Mahadik to Host Clay Bird Workshop at Kala Ghoda Arts Festival
Mumbai, Jan 29: Actor and celebrated DIY creator Shweta Mahadik will host a Clay Bird Making Workshop at the YWCA International Centre, Kala Ghoda, on Sunday, 1st February 2026, from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm, as part of Asia’s largest street art festival, the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival.
The 90-minute hands-on workshop invites participants to reconnect with the joy of working with their hands. Guided step by step, attendees will shape clay into charming birds that can later be transformed into paperweights, wind chimes, or decorative table centrepieces. Designed for an intimate group of 25–30 participants, the session includes all materials and is open to beginners as well as craft enthusiasts.
More than a craft activity, the workshop celebrates mindful making, sustainability, and the beauty of imperfection, values that resonate with the spirit of Kala Ghoda.
Speaking about the initiative, Brinda Miller, Chairperson of the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, said:
“Kala Ghoda has always been a space where art becomes something you can experience, not just observe. Workshops like this bring people closer to the creative process and remind us that art can be simple, tactile, and deeply personal.”
Shweta Mahadik first gained national attention during the COVID-19 lockdown with her imaginative DIY recreations blending fashion, sustainability, and accessibility. Her recreation inspired by the Sabyasachi Mukherjee x H&M collaboration went viral in the Indian fashion community. She later received international recognition when handpicked by American Eagle for a sustainability-focused campaign, with one of her upcycled garments showcased at an exhibition in London.
Reflecting on the workshop, Shweta Mahadik said:
“Working with clay feels grounding in a way that very few things do. These little birds are symbols of freedom and imagination, and I love the idea of people taking home something they created with their own hands. Art doesn’t have to be complicated; sometimes it just begins with touching the earth.”
Set within the vibrant Kala Ghoda precinct, the workshop promises to be more than an activity—it offers a shared moment of creativity, calm, and community amidst the city’s bustling rhythm.
For media enquiries, interviews, or further information, Shweta Mahadik is available for conversations and feature stories.
29, Jan 2026
Union Budget 2026 can strengthen private credit and finance for sustainable growth
From a private credit and alternative investment standpoint, we expect the Budget to focus on improving capital access for mid-market developers, enabling last-mile funding for stalled projects, and accelerating redevelopment-led urban renewal. Greater regulatory clarity for Category II AIFs, improved tax pass-through visibility, and wider participation from domestic institutional capital would further deepen India’s alternative investment ecosystem.
Continued emphasis on urban infrastructure, transit-oriented development, and redevelopment, particularly in high-density markets, along with faster approvals and predictable tax treatment, can meaningfully improve risk-adjusted returns for investors while strengthening long-term financial stability across the sector.
29, Jan 2026
Metro Brands Launches FILA’s First-Ever New-Concept Store at Mall of Asia, Bengaluru
Metro Brands Limited, has unveiled FILA’s first-ever new-concept store in India at Mall of Asia, Bengaluru (Ground Floor), marking a defining moment in the brand’s retail evolution in the country. Spanning ~1000 sq ft., the store introduces a globally inspired, design-led format that redefines how consumers experience FILA in a modern retail environment.
Rooted in FILA’s iconic Italian heritage, the new store blends refined European design cues with a contemporary, fluid layout to create an engaging retail experience. Designed as more than just a shopping destination, the store functions as a lifestyle showcase bringing together performance, streetwear and athleisure. The museum-inspired Library Wall at the core of the store is an exclusive space to limited-edition drops, premium collections and new launches.
To mark the launch, FILA hosted an exclusive store unveiling on 28th January, bringing together prominent lifestyle influencers, fashion creators and key media representatives. The evening featured curated walkthroughs of the store, new product drops including Anna, the Motorsport Collection – Replica, and global collections such as Echappe and SuperBubble, along with immersive brand moments that celebrated FILA’s evolving global identity and its growing presence in India’s premium sneaker and athleisure landscape.
Commenting on the launch, Alisha Rafique Malik, President, Metro Brands Limited, said:
“The new store marks an exciting new chapter for FILA in India—one that brings renewed energy, sharper expression, and a more dynamic connection with today’s consumer. We have created an environment that blends thoughtful design and curated product storytelling, while remaining deeply relevant to the Indian market.”
With this launch, Metro Brands continues to strengthen its commitment to introducing globally benchmarked retail formats that blend design, storytelling and consumer experience, reinforcing their domination in building the sport and athleisure experience in India
29, Jan 2026
Life n Colors x Shabnam Gupta Reveal the ‘Neelvana’ Collection: A World of Monochromatic Forest Lore
New Delhi, India, Jan 29: Somewhere in the soft haze between memory and imagination lies a forest that is at once quiet, layered, and deeply immersive. This is the world of Neelvana, the latest panoramic wallpapers collection by Life n Colors, India’s premier design house, co-created with the acclaimed interior designer, Shabnam Gupta.
Neelvana is born from a long-standing creative kinship between the two, across numerous high-profile residential and commercial projects, which reflects a shared approach towards ‘intentionally styled’ living. As its name suggests, Neelvana is a journey through an imaginary forest with illustrated landscapes and rich flora that breathe a sculptural depth into modern interiors. Through graceful arches and glimpses of architectural facades, the collection draws attention to the peace found within natural landscapes. It is a soulful reminder of the world’s vanishing greenery and a tribute to the quiet beauty we must never take for granted.
Speaking about the collaboration, Apourva, co-founder, Life n Colors, says,
“The idea of Neelvan felt natural, not as a theme, but as a state of mind. The palette in this collection mirrors the shifting soul of the forest throughout the day: the fresh Moss Green of morning, the warm Sepia of high noon, the ethereal Blue of dusk, and a Charcoal Grey that captures the mystery of the deep woods. Neelvana does not merely decorate a wall; it allows a room to breathe through the four distinct temperaments of a single day.”
Speaking on the design approach, Shabnam Gupta shares,
“The intention was to reinterpret the forest as a surface system; introducing a fresh sense of shade, scale, and layering without visual excess. These deep forests exist as an abstracted sanctuary rather than a direct reference. Working with Life n Colors brought this vision to life through their profound understanding of surfaces, scale, and the way high-end design lives within a home.”
Central to the collection are designs like Monochrome Ascents, which capture vertical vitality through stylised tree forms. In contrast, Monsoon Arches pairs the structure of architectural silhouettes with softened foliage – perfectly reflecting the signature balance of order and natural ease that defines the aesthetics of Life n Colors. Across the collection, surfaces are treated with intent: murals anchor the room’s narrative, while intricate borders provide architectural framing. Ceilings offer an unexpected depth to the room, and when extended to wardrobes and panels, the visual language integrates seamlessly into the rhythm of everyday life.
Parallel to its design narrative, Neelvana carries a quiet acknowledgment of the Aravali forests, which are slowly losing their density. This sensitivity extends into Life n Colors’ approach to making, where creation is guided by care and restraint, alongside conscious efforts to offset environmental impact. Over the past year, the brand has offset approximately 95,000 kg of CO₂ emissions.
This collection is now available through both Peacock Life & Life n Colors experience centre in Gurgaon, Mumbai, and their official website. It invites homeowners and designers alike to step out of the mundane and into a forest of their own making. An invitation to bring this soulful greenery into a space, the collection starts at INR 12,000 per 30 sqm.
29, Jan 2026
Raffles Hotels & Resorts Strengthens Its Legacy in Rajasthan with the 2026 Raffles Sirmour Cup
Jaipur, India, Jan 29: Raffles Hotels & Resorts is pleased to reaffirm its association with the prestigious Rajasthan Polo Club through the continued sponsorship of the Raffles Sirmour Cup (14 goals)—one of the marquee tournaments of the Jaipur Polo Season. In 2026, Raffles Jaipur and Raffles Udaipur come together as co-sponsors, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to heritage-led experiences in India and its enduring belief in preserving and celebrating cultural traditions.
The Raffles Sirmour Cup 2026 will be held from 9–15 February 2026, bringing together distinguished players, patrons and polo enthusiasts to celebrate the rich and storied legacy of the sport in the Pink City.
Founded under the patronage of the Royal Family of Jaipur, the Rajasthan Polo Club remains a proud custodian of Rajasthan’s equestrian heritage. Its historic grounds have, over the decades, welcomed global dignitaries including His Royal Highness Prince Philip and Her Majesty the Queen of England, HRH Prince Charles and the late Lady Diana, and former United States First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, among others. Today, the Club continues to attract exceptional polo talent from India and abroad, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary sporting excellence.
For Raffles, supporting the Sirmour Cup reflects a deep respect for the cultural fabric of Rajasthan. Polo, in this context, represents lineage, craftsmanship, camaraderie and pride—values that align closely with the brand’s philosophy. By championing the tournament, Raffles contributes to preserving this living legacy while offering guests an authentic window into a tradition that continues to define the region.
Commenting on the association, Rajat Sethi, Cluster General Manager, Raffles and Fairmont Jaipur, said,
“The Jaipur Polo Season is one of the city’s most defining winter traditions, and the Raffles Sirmour Cup holds a special place in that calendar. For Raffles Jaipur, this partnership allows us to deepen our role as a cultural partner—connecting guests with Jaipur’s heritage while celebrating the elegance, excellence and spirit of the sport.”
Gurnoor Bindra, General Manager, Raffles Udaipur, added,
“At Raffles Udaipur, our philosophy is rooted in thoughtful hospitality that honours India’s rich cultural heritage. Supporting the Raffles Sirmour Cup strengthens our commitment to preserving tradition and celebrating a sport deeply interwoven with Rajasthan’s identity. We look forward to contributing to a season that brings together legacy, sport and distinguished company.”
Through this continued partnership, Raffles Jaipur and Raffles Udaipur honour a cherished sporting tradition while offering guests a refined and immersive glimpse into Jaipur’s most iconic winter moments where heritage, community and the unmistakable charm of Raffles converge on and beyond the polo field.
29, Jan 2026
Australia Deepens Karnataka Engagement; University of New South Wales to Establish Bengaluru Campus
Bengaluru, Jan 29: Australia is set to significantly deepen its engagement with Karnataka, positioning the state as a strategic hub for bilateral collaboration across education, technology and business.
Addressing delegates at an interactive session on Tariff-Free Access for Indian Exporters under the India–Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), Mr. Vik Singh, Consul (Commercial) and Trade & Investment Commissioner, South Asia, Australian Trade and Investment Commission, highlighted the growing momentum in Australia–India relations, with Karnataka emerging as a central pillar of this expanding partnership. The session was organised by the Bangalore Chamber of Industry & Commerce (BCIC) under the aegis of its International Business Expert Committee, in association with World Trade Center Bengaluru.
Education and technology remain priority sectors in the bilateral relationship. In a major development, the University of New South Wales (UNSW) has announced plans to establish a branch campus in Bengaluru, with discussions already underway with the Government of Karnataka. The campus is expected to become operational next year.
“As one of the world’s leading universities, UNSW’s decision to establish a presence in Bengaluru reflects the confidence Australian institutions have in Karnataka’s talent ecosystem and innovation potential,” said Mr. Singh. “The campus will play a key role in strengthening academic collaboration, research partnerships and technology exchange between Australia and India.”
Ranked among the world’s top universities, UNSW’s proposed Bengaluru campus is expected to contribute significantly to advanced education, joint research initiatives and industry-linked innovation, further reinforcing Karnataka’s position as a global education and knowledge hub. The initiative marks an important milestone in Australia’s long-term engagement with India and underscores Karnataka’s growing stature as a preferred destination for international universities and global investors.
“Karnataka has emerged as one of Australia’s most important partners in India, driven by strong synergies in education, innovation and enterprise,” Mr. Singh added. “This is reflected not only in growing trade and investment flows, but also in Australia’s decision to establish one of its largest consular presences in India here, second only to the High Commission in New Delhi.”
India–Australia ECTA: A Landmark Development
Highlighting the trade dimension, Mr. K Ravi, Senior Vice President, BCIC, said, “The implementation of tariff-free access for Indian exporters under the India–Australia ECTA is a landmark development that will significantly enhance India’s export competitiveness. With 100 percent of Australian tariff lines moving to zero duty from January 1, 2026, this historic step unlocks new opportunities across key sectors such as textiles, engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, gems and jewellery, and agriculture—accelerating MSME-led growth, boosting employment and expanding India’s export footprint.”
He added that BCIC will play a key role in supporting exporters by driving industry preparedness, facilitating buyer–seller engagements and ensuring that MSMEs are well-equipped to leverage the agreement, further strengthening bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
The deepening relationship is further underscored by the launch of a direct Sydney–Bengaluru flight by Qantas, significantly improving connectivity and accelerating business, academic and people-to-people exchanges between the two regions.
Mr. Singh also outlined the major sectors poised to benefit from deeper Australia–India engagement. Clean energy stands out, supported by Australia’s net-zero targets and rising renewable investments. Education and skills development continue to enable greater student mobility, academic collaboration and joint research. Agribusiness is gaining momentum through improved market access, food processing opportunities and agri-technology cooperation, while tourism is emerging as a high-growth sector driven by rising outbound travel from India. Overall, the services sector—particularly IT, professional services and education—is expected to be the most significant long-term beneficiary of the partnership.
29, Jan 2026
The Gypsy Travel Festival Returns to Mumbai with Its Most Ambitious Edition Yet Wander. Discover. Dream.
Mumbai, Jan 29: Travel is no longer aesthetic-only. It’s time to swap screens for stories, hashtags for handshakes, and curated feeds for lived experiences. This February, Mumbai becomes the epicentre of global discovery as The Gypsy Travel Festival (TGTF), India’s premier consumer travel showcase, returns with its 4th edition on 7th & 8th February 2026 at Jio World Drive, BKC. Running from 3 PM to 10 PM, TGTF brings together destinations, travel brands, industry experts, and experience-led audiences under one dynamic roof, redefining how Indian travellers discover and plan their holidays.
“TGTF was created as a space where travel conversations could move beyond brochures and algorithms,” says Lubaina Sheerazi, Co-founder, The Gypsy Travel Network. “Over the years, we’ve seen Indian travellers become more curious, more informed, and far more intentional. This edition reflects that shift, bringing together destinations and brands that offer depth, authenticity, and experiences people genuinely want to engage with before they travel.”
Bringing the World to Mumbai
As India’s appetite for immersive, experience-led travel continues to surge, TGTF has evolved into a platform that brings global cultures, conversations, and journeys directly to Indian audiences.
This year’s edition features powerful destination-led storytelling and immersive showcases, including:
- Amazing Thailand, presented in partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, spotlighting culture-rich cities, island escapes, wellness journeys, festivals, and emerging sustainable routes.
- Visit Sapporo, Japan’s northern wonderland, Hokkaido, offering a window into snow-laden landscapes, world-class produce, hot springs, and seasonal adventures that redefine experiential travel.
- Magical Kenya, unveiling vibrant coastline, bustling cities, and experiences beyond iconic safaris and unforgettable wildlife encounters that continue to top global bucket lists.
June Chepkemei, CEO, Kenya Tourism Board, said,
“Kenya and India share a natural affinity rooted in connectivity, cultural appreciation, and a mutual understanding of quality travel experiences.” Chepkemei also stated. “Our presence in Mumbai allows us to meet Indian travellers where they are making crucial decisions about their next international journey, presenting Kenya’s full spectrum of offerings in ways that inspire genuine interest and action.”
TGTF 2026 also features a curated selection of lifestyle and hospitality partners like Club Med, CGH Earth, HomeExchange, and Rare India whose offerings reflect contemporary travel sensibilities, where design, storytelling, and utility come together in ways best experienced on the ground. The event will also feature many local and global culinary experiences, fireside chats with food voices we love and trust, and conversations with TV’s favourite Chef Vicky Ratnani and the trusted authority on India’s street food, Rocky Singh.
Across two high-energy evenings, attendees can:
- Tune into Travel Talks led by industry insiders and seasoned travellers
- Participate in hands-on workshops covering itinerary design, smart planning, and real-world travel hacks
- Explore immersive installations and destination-led experiences
- Sample global flavours, unlock festival-exclusive deals, and connect with a community that truly gets travel
Whether you’re planning your next big escape, looking for fresh inspiration, or simply craving discovery beyond the algorithm, The Gypsy Travel Festival is where travel stops being a scroll and starts becoming a story.
29, Jan 2026
Farhana Bodi Exudes Major Boss Energy at Rahul Mishra Paris Couture Show
Mumbai, Jan 29: Global fashion entrepreneur Farhana Bodi turned heads at Rahul Mishra’s Paris Haute Couture Week show, emerging as one of the evening’s most striking presences. Against the grandeur of couture’s most prestigious stage, her appearance was a seamless blend of power, precision, and poetic glamour, perfectly reflecting Mishra’s artistic vision. Among a constellation of global fashion leaders, editors, and tastemakers, Farhana didn’t just attend she defined the moment, cementing her role as a compelling voice on the international fashion stage.
Farhana’s ensemble was a masterclass in couture power dressing. She wore a structured longline coat-gown in deep black, combining sharp tailoring with dramatic couture flair. The piece featured dense embroidery, sequins, and intricate beadwork, giving it a rich, dimensional texture that came alive with movement. Sculpted shoulders, voluminous sleeves, a sharp lapel, and a cinched waist created an architectural yet fluid silhouette, blurring the line between dress and overcoat a hallmark of Rahul Mishra’s signature artistry. Her luminous, understated makeup and sleek updo complemented the outfit, letting the couture itself command attention.
Reflecting on the experience, Farhana shared:
“Being at Rahul Mishra’s Paris show is always deeply inspiring. His Alchemy collection felt transcendent, where heritage, handcraft, and innovation merged poetically. Every creation told a story of transformation and meticulous artistry. Witnessing Indian couture shine on the global stage, surrounded by visionary creatives, is truly a top-of-the-world moment and a celebration of craftsmanship at its finest.”
With this appearance, Farhana Bodi reaffirmed her growing influence across global fashion capitals. More than a front-row attendee, she continues to act as a cultural connector—championing designers who merge heritage with contemporary luxury and bringing a distinctly modern presence to the world’s most elite fashion stages.
29, Jan 2026
Fynd’s Republic Day Report 2026 reveals New Shopping Patterns in Fashion E-commerce
Mumbai, Jan 29: Fynd, AI native retail technology company backed by Reliance Retail Ventures Limited, today released its Republic Day Report 2026, offering a data-led view into how India’s e-commerce landscape is evolving during one of the country’s most significant national sale events.
The Republic Day sale period in 2026 recorded 157.4K orders with a gross sales value of ₹298.2 million. While overall volumes were slightly moderated compared to 2025, the data indicates a more measured, value-conscious consumer mindset, signalling a shift away from impulse-led discount shopping toward trust, relevance, and convenience-driven purchases.
Drawing insights from leading marketplaces including Myntra, Flipkart, Amazon, AJIO, and Nykaa, the report analyses shopping behaviour across apparel, footwear, and ethnic wear categories, revealing a maturing e-commerce market where how and when India shops is changing as meaningfully as what it buys.
Key Insights:
- Marketplace leadership holds: Myntra led Republic Day shopping with over 45% of marketplace order share, followed by Flipkart and Amazon, reaffirming marketplaces as the default discovery channel
- Prepaid trust strengthens: Digital payments crossed 53% of total transactions during the sale period, signalling rising consumer confidence in prepaid modes even during high-volume events
- Discounting stays aggressive, but segmented: Fashion-led platforms offered average discounts of 50–60%, while premium and luxury platforms maintained tighter discount strategies under 40%
- Monday outperformed weekends: Contrary to conventional sales patterns, Monday recorded the highest order volumes during the Republic Day sale period
- Late evenings dominate: Order activity peaked around 10 PM, highlighting post-work, leisure-driven browsing as the primary conversion window
- Omnichannel fulfilment balances out: Store-based fulfilment matched warehouse dispatches in 2026, with store leading 50.8% compared to 49.2% by warehouse, reflecting improved store readiness and smarter inventory routing
- Clear category platform affinities: Casual wear category was led by Myntra and Flipkart, ethnic wear was overwhelmingly Myntra-led, while footwear demand was distributed across multiple marketplaces
- Non-metro demand leads: Tier 2 and 3 cities together accounted for over 60% of total Republic Day orders, reinforcing the continued expansion of e-commerce beyond metro.
“This Republic Day, Indian ecommerce proved it’s evolving not just in scale, but in intelligence. Brands are no longer just participating in sales; they are optimizing them. From using stores to fulfill more orders to narrowing discount bands and engaging late-night shoppers, we are seeing a smarter, more agile playbook emerge. With deep omnichannel expertise, Fynd’s platform enables brands to seamlessly unify online and offline operations, bringing data, inventory, and customer experiences together in one intelligent layer,” said Ragini Varma, Chief Business Officer, India, Fynd”, said Ragini Varma, Chief Business Officer – India, Fynd.
While Republic Day is a shorter shopping window compared to festive seasons, the findings mirror broader structural shifts in Indian e-commerce from weekday-led demand and prepaid trust to omnichannel readiness and tighter platform-category alignment, signalling a market that is growing smarter, not just larger.
