Author: Neel Achary

Superkicks Unveils New Flagship Store in Mumbai

Superkicks Unveils New Flagship Store in Mumbai: Where Streetwear Meets Culture, Community & Creativity

Mumbai, 14th August 2025 — Seven years after Superkicks first disrupted India’s streetwear scene with its debut store in Khar, the brand returns to its roots with a bold new chapter: the launch of its largest and most ambitious Mumbai flagship yet. Located at the bustling junction of Swami Vivekanand Road and Ram Krishna Mission Road in Santacruz West, this space is more than just a store; it’s an immersive destination where product, passion, and purpose collide.

Designed in collaboration with Restore Design, the flagship captures the heartbeat of Mumbai, merging Bandra’s colonial heritage with the kinetic energy of global street culture. Spread across 2,800 sq. ft., the “Fusion Lab” interiors take cues from the city’s seas, streets, and storied architecture. Mosaic tiles, arched windows, a sweeping grand staircase, and gothic-style fixtures evoke nostalgia, while monochrome blue accents add a contemporary pulse. Soon, a mural by a local artist and sculptural installations will further root the space in Mumbai’s vibrant creative fabric.

Superkicks’ curated universe comes alive here, uniting global sneaker heavyweights, Nike, Adidas, Puma, New Balance, Asics, with cult streetwear labels like Carhartt, Aries, Represent, FDMTL, and homegrown disruptors such as Jaywalking, Farak, Thaely, and Almost Gods. The brand’s own apparel line takes pride of place, alongside exclusive collaborations with Budweiser, Zomaland, and other cultural icons.

But the flagship is more than retail—it’s a cultural hub. Expect live music sessions, brand-led events, limited drops, and community activations designed to spark conversation and fuel expression. “Mumbai was our first home turf, and this store is an ode to the city and its creative heartbeat,” says Nisha Lulla, CMO & Co-founder. Sangeet Paryani, CEO & Co-founder, adds, “We’ve built a space that celebrates the process of creation and the community that inspires it. This is where streetwear meets storytelling.”

Enhancing the in-store journey is The Wholesome Pantry café by I Am Wholesome India, founded by sisters Manpreet Dhody and Anupreet Dhody. Known for their artful approach to food, they’ve curated a menu where flavour, design, and storytelling converge—making it the perfect spot to pause, connect, and soak in the Superkicks experience.

As Superkicks opens this flagship, it reinforces its position as a pioneer of India’s streetwear culture—inviting everyone to step inside, explore, and be part of a movement that celebrates creativity without compromise. The next era of Indian street fashion starts here.

Tamarind Restaurant Celebrates Independence Day with Limited-Edition Tri Colour Thali Menu

14th August 2025: Tamarind Restaurant, a cherished destination for authentic South Indian cuisine, is celebrating the spirit of freedom and flavour with the launch of a specially curated Tri Colour Thali, available for one day only on 15th August 2025. In honour of India’s 79th Independence Day, the restaurant presents two elaborate thalis, Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian, each designed to reflect the richness of India’s culinary traditions and the festive essence of this national occasion.

The Non-Veg Tri Colour Thali begins with a welcome drink of classic buttermilk, followed by an appetising trio of starters: Tawa Fish (Bhetki), Chicken Malai Kebab, and Murg Hariyali Kebab. The main course is a hearty celebration of regional flavours, featuring Mutton Bhuna Gosht, Prawn Seegdi Vella Korma, and Chicken Kothmiri Kodi, offering a rich and robust mix of spice and texture. These mains are accompanied by Mangalorean-style Mixed Vegetables and Ambat Dal, served with fragrant coriander rice. Bread offerings include soft Kulcha and delicate Appam, complemented by green salad, crunchy papad, and tangy pickle.

The Veg Tri Colour Thali offers an equally indulgent journey, beginning with a chilled glass of buttermilk to open the palate. Starters include crispy Baby Corn 65, creamy Makhmali Paneer, and zesty Coriander Chili Potato. The main course highlights comforting favourites like Paneer Makhni, wholesome Veg Stew, and Corn Palak, cooked with seasonal produce and signature Tamarind spices. These are served with Mangalorean Mixed Vegetables, Ambat Dal, and coriander-infused rice. Accompaniments include Appam and Kulcha, paired with fresh green salad, papad, and pickle.

The two thali concludes with two traditional desserts, Double Ka Meetha and Coconut Payasam.

With this Independence Day special, Tamarind seamlessly blends festive tradition with culinary innovation, inviting guests to come together and celebrate the nation’s diversity through food. The Tri Colour Thali is not just a tribute to India’s tricolour, but also a celebration of unity in flavour. Available for dine-in only on 15th August 2025, it promises a memorable and patriotic culinary experience that’s both comforting and grand.

Corporate Funding for Smart Grid Companies Totaled $1.4 Billion in 1H 2025, Reports Mercom Capital Group

August 14, 2025 – Mercom Capital Group, a global clean energy communications and consulting firm, released its report on funding and merger& acquisition (M&A) activity for the global Smart Grid sector for the second quarter (Q2) and first half (1H) of 2025.

Corporate funding for Smart Grid companies in 1H 2025 totaled $1.4 billion in 48 deals, 13% lower year-over-year (YoY) compared to $1.6 billion raised in 36 deals in 1H 2024.

Boosted by investments in Smart Charging companies, VC funding across all Smart Grid companies in 1H 2025 totaled $1.1 billion in 41 deals, 8% lower YoY than the $1.2 billion raised in 29 deals in 1H 2024.

The Top 5 Smart Grid VC funding deals in 1H 2025 were: Believ ($410 million), Connected Kerb ($81 million), Smart Wires ($65 million), Utilidata ($60 million), and GreenWay ($54 million).

Announced debt and public market financing for Smart Grid technology companies totaled $300 million in seven deals in 1H 2025, compared to seven deals worth $321 million in 1H 2024.

In 1H 2025, there were four Smart Grid M&A transactions (one disclosed) compared to three transactions (all undisclosed) in 1H 2024.

Annual Inflation rate on WPI softens further, to boost domestic demand: PHDCCI

New Delhi | August 14, 2025:The provisional annual inflation rate on the All India Wholesale Price Index (WPI), softened to(-) 0.58% for July 2025 compared to July 2024, driven by a reduction in the prices of food articles and Crude Petroleum . This will boost domestic demand, despite the volatile international landscape, said Mr. Hemant Jain, President, PHDCCI, in a press statement issued here today.

The prices of food articles have been continuously softening since February 2025. The prices have declined from 3.43% in February to (-) 6.29% in July 2025. Additionally, the fall in prices of crude petroleum from 12.31% in June to (-) 14.86% in July 2025, are major contributors to declining WPI inflation, said Mr Jain.

Going forward, the moderation in prices of food articles and  a favourable progress in the southwest monsoon will bolster agricultural activity boosting economic growth, he said.

Effortless Style Meets Everyday Comfort — Introducing the Sterling Drivers by LANGUAGE®

LANGUAGE®, a brand known for its superior craftsmanship and contemporary design, proudly unveils its latest footwear innovation — The Sterling Drivers. Designed for the discerning modern man, this elegant new style blends classic design with the comfort and functionality demanded by today’s fast-paced lifestyle.

Crafted with a premium leather upper and a soft leather lining, The Sterling Drivers are designed to deliver durability, breathability, and long-lasting comfort. The slip-on style allows for effortless wear, while the cushioned, leather-lined footbed provides reliable support throughout the day. Whether you’re navigating a busy schedule or winding down, these shoes offer ease without compromising on elegance.

Finished with a sturdy TPR sole for flexibility and dependable grip, The Sterling Drivers are ideal for a wide range of occasions — from casual strolls to smart-casual gatherings. Their understated design pairs effortlessly with everything from denim to tailored chinos, making them a dependable go-to in any wardrobe.

Available in five elegant shades — Forest Green, Grey, Navy, Black, and Brown — the Sterling Drivers offer options for every mood and outfit.

The Sterling Drivers are available at LANGUAGE® exclusive stores in Chennai, Hyderabad, Chandigarh, Indore, Ludhiana, Patiala, Bathinda, and Sangrur as well as at over 250 premium multi-brand retail outlets across India. Customers can also explore the collection online at languageshoes.com, Amazon.in, and Tatacliq.com.

Samira Gupta’s Book Executive Presence Successfully Launches in New Delhi

New Delhi, August 14, 2025: Acclaimed leadership coach, keynote speaker and author Samira Gupta unveiled her book, “Executive Presence: Build Gravitas with the 3Ps – Poise, Power & Performance”. The event took place at the prestigious Defence Services Officers’ Institute (DSOI), Dhaula Kuan, drawing a distinguished crowd of business leaders, professionals, and changemakers.

The evening unfolded with a ceremonial unveiling of the book, followed by a deeply engaging address by Samira Gupta, who shared reflections from her transformative three-decade-long journey. A spirited book-signing session and an elegant networking dinner added warmth and camaraderie to the celebration.

Addressing the gathering, Samira Gupta said, “I am truly overwhelmed by the support and energy in the room. This book is a reflection of my passion and mission to help empower individuals and professionals to lead with authenticity, confidence, and strategic presence. Executive presence goes beyond image – it’s about creating lasting impact, empowering one to influence outcomes effectively, and guiding their team toward success with unwavering assurance.”

The book offers a practical framework that combines actionable strategies with real-world insights, equipping professionals to elevate their presence and influence through 3Ps – Poise, Power & Performance.

The event concluded on a high note, with energizing conversations and connections, leaving attendees inspired to cultivate their gravitas in the workplace and beyond.

GreenPro Summit 2025 Inaugurates with Strong Industry and Global Commitments Towards Low Carbon Innovation

Chennai, 14 August 2025 – The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) inaugurated the 8^th edition of GreenPro Summit 2025 at the ITC Grand Chola, Chennai, under the theme “Advancing Towards Net Zero Through Low Carbon Products, Materials and Technologies.” The two-day summit began with a high-powered inaugural session that brought together industry stalwarts, global ecolabeling leaders, and policymakers who collectively called for accelerated adoption of low-carbon products, sustainable materials, and innovative technologies to achieve Net Zero targets.

During the summit, GreenPro announced the milestone of surpassing 11,500 certified green products in India, a significant leap in the nation’s journey towards sustainable adoption. This achievement signals to manufacturers that ecolabelling is rapidly becoming a driver of competitiveness and innovation. From the construction sector to manufacturing hubs, the adoption of green practices is gaining unprecedented momentum. Each new certification brings India closer to its vision of net zero and builds a future where sustainability is the standard, and the country positions itself as a global leader in low carbon production.

A landmark moment of the inaugural session was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CII GreenPro and the Singapore Environment Council (SEC). The MoU aims to foster collaboration on ecolabeling, encourage mutual recognition of certified products, and advance sustainable procurement in the Asia Pacific region. By aligning India’s green product certification framework with global best practices, the partnership is expected to create new market opportunities for eco-friendly products and services across borders.

The inaugural was graced by Thiru A R Rahul Nadh, IAS, Director, Department of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Tamil Nadu; and Ms Isabella Huang-Loh, Chairman, Singapore Environment Council in the presence of Mr. Unnikrishnan, Chairman, Green Products and Services Council; Mr. K S Venkatagiri, Executive Director, CII GBC; and Mr. S Karthikeyan, Deputy Executive Director, CII GreenPro.

At the inaugural, the Chief Guest Thiru AR Rahul Nadh, IAS, Director – Department of Environment and Climate Change, Govt. of Tamil Nadu said, “Climate science tells us that the decisions we take in this decade will shape the future of the planet for decades to come. While governments worldwide are strengthening climate policies, it is the collective power of industries, innovators, and consumers that will turn these policies into reality. The GreenPro Summit stands as a shining example of how we can accelerate this transformation. GreenPro continues to provide credible certification for projects and products that meet rigorous environmental criteria. It empowers consumers to make informed, sustainable choices and motivates manufacturers to innovate responsibly. This is not just about products, it is about building a new culture of production and consumption. The most important thing you can do to fight climate change is talk about it; the next crucial step is to act on it.

Net Zero is a complete system transformation. To achieve this, we need policy alignment between government, industry, and civil society; investment in green research and development; and consumer awareness that lets demand drive the market for low-carbon products. The journey to Net Zero is a shared responsibility. The GreenPro Summit is a platform to forge partnerships, share solutions, and commit to tangible targets. Let us make a renewed commitment to adopt and advocate for ecolabelled products, invest in technologies that put the planet first, and make low carbon living the norm, turning Net Zero into a reality for Tamil Nadu, India, and the world.”

Mr. Unnikrishnan, Chairman, Green Products and Services Council proudly expressed how “GreenPro’s journey over the years reflects India’s growing commitment to sustainable consumption and production. With over 11,500 certified products from 450+ companies across 39 categories, the ecolabel has already helped reduce 7.5 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions, save 175 billion liters of water, and conserve 6,500 GWh of energy. Our expansion into sectors like heavy mobility vehicles, consumer appliances, and facility services demonstrates our ability to adapt and lead in emerging areas of sustainability. By integrating verified carbon footprint data into all certifications and forging global collaborations, GreenPro is not only greening India’s supply chains but also setting the stage for a low-carbon, resource-efficient future.”

Ms. Isabella Huang Loh, Vice Chair, Global Ecolabelling Network and ESG Advisor, highlighted the importance of international cooperation and harmonized ecolabeling standards to build trust and scale green markets globally.

As a part of the inaugural, John Deere India was bestowed with Leadership award for “Excellence in Green Supply Chain,” which was received by Mr Sri Krishna Kulkarni, Commodity Lead, Global Strategic Sourcing, John Deere India and Rane (Madras) Ltd., was awarded with “Green Champion in Supply Chain” which was received by Mr. Lakshmanan, Vice President, Rane (Madras) Ltd.

The inaugural was followed by an insightful Session on Sustainable Procurement for Enabling Net Zero – moderated by Mr. Karthikeyan. Panelists included Mr. Aun Abdullah, Head ESG, Lodha Group; Mr. Nirbhay Lumde, Senior Vice President – ESG, Prestige Group; Mr. Jayasankar Kentinkara, Senior Vice President (Technical & Customer Solutions), Ultratech Cement Limited; Mr. Sanjay Kumar, Founder & CEO, NEXGEN Procurement Solutions; and Mr. Sachin Joshi, Sustainability and ESG Advisor. The discussion explored how procurement policies can influence supply chains, spur demand for low-carbon materials, and catalyze a shift towards circular and resource-efficient products.

The day’s proceedings also featured a Master Speaker session by Mr. Sumit Bhatia, Vice President, ARS Steel, who spoke on the pivotal role of low-carbon steel in achieving Net Zero building goals. A fireside chat between Mr. K S Venkatagiri and Ms. Isabella Huang Loh offered a global perspective on ecolabeling trends and their potential to reshape procurement standards.

In the afternoon, delegates engaged in sessions that delved into practical strategies for selecting low-carbon products and sustainable materials, with case studies from LEAD Consultancy, Godrej Enterprises Group, and L&T Construction. Technical deep dives explored emerging materials such as Net Zero cement and concrete, zero-carbon glazing, and innovative sustainable surfaces. The day concluded with an international dialogue on green trade in the Asia Pacific, featuring UNEP, Thailand Environment Institute, SIRIM, and the Global Ecolabelling Network, reiterating the summit’s commitment to fostering cross-border partnerships for climate action.

The day concluded with a session on Accelerate Green Trade (Asia Pacific) – Challenges, Opportunities and Way Forward moderated by Mr. Unnikrishnan A R, Green Products and Services Council, where Dr. Chuttree Phurat, Director, Thailand Environment Institute, provided insights into integrating low-carbon standards into trade and policy frameworks in the Asia Pacific. Adding further international perspectives, Mr. Gareth, Secretariat, Global Ecolabelling Network (GEN), highlighted the critical role of cross-country ecolabel alignment. Mr. Kamarul Arieffin Bin Rosli, Group Leader, SIRIM (Malaysia), spoke on creating robust certification pathways to strengthen green trade in the region, Ms. Bruna Tiussu, Ecolabel and Consumer Information Expert, Consumption & Production Unit, Industry & Economy Division, UNEP spoke on how leveraging the region’s economic growth and growing consumer demand for sustainable products will drive the adoption of eco-friendly practices though ecolabels.

TNAU Signs MoU with VST Tillers Tractors to Promote Small Farm Mechanization in Tamil Nadu

Coimbatore, 14 August 2025: Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with VST Tillers Tractors Ltd., a leading manufacturer of compact agricultural machinery in India, to promote greater awareness and training on small farm mechanization across Tamil Nadu.

This strategic collaboration aims to develop small farm machinery along with advanced technological, agronomic, and educational solutions to support sustainable food production locally and globally.

The MoU focuses on key areas including frontier research in the area of small farm machinery, Training students in the latest innovations and modern farm technologies, creating awareness among both students and farmers on small farm mechanization, testing and evaluating VST’s farm machinery under local conditions, supporting students on future research on technological evolutions, providing project opportunities for TNAU students in the area of farm mechanization, offering internships for TNAU students with VST Tillers Tractors Ltd for on ground contribution.

Antony Cherukara, CEO, VST Tillers Tractors Ltd. and Dr. R.Thamizh Vendan, Registrar, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University signed and exchanged the MOU in presence of Dr. A Raviraj, Dean, Agriculture Engineering College and Research Institute, TNAU; Dr. R Tyagarajan, Associate Professor, Department of Farm Machinery; Dr. R Kavitha, Professor and Raja Chidambaram, DGM, SFM, VST Tillers Tractors.

Speaking at the MoU signing, representatives from TNAU and VST emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical agricultural solutions, especially in the context of small and marginal farmers.

According to Mr. Antony Cherukara, CEO, VST Tillers Tractors Ltd “we are delighted to collaborate with Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, a premier institution in agricultural education and research. “This MoU aligns with our vision to empower small and marginal farmers through innovative research and affordable mechanization solutions. By working closely with TNAU’s faculties and talented students, we aim to develop practical, field-ready technologies that can transform agricultural practices and improve farmer livelihoods across the state. Through this collaboration, talented university students will also have the opportunity to engage at our upcoming Global Technology Development Centre in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, to develop cost-efficient, benchmark solutions that blend innovative technology with the needs of India’s small and marginal farmers.

Dr. R.Thamizh Vendan, Registrar, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) said “this partnership with VST Tillers Tractors Ltd. marks a significant step towards enhancing the practical exposure of our students and bridging the gap between research and real-world application. Through this collaboration, we aim to bring the benefits of small farm mechanization to the grassroots level, ensuring that farmers across Tamil Nadu can access and adopt modern, efficient farming technologies.”

Dr. A Raviraj, Dean, Agriculture Engineering College and Research Institute, TNAU, said “This collaboration is expected to empower the next generation of agri-tech professionals and enhance productivity through farm mechanization suited to the diverse agricultural landscape of Tamil Nadu”.

The Oberoi Group Announces Second Edition of The Oberoi Group Scholarship Program

The Oberoi Group Announces Second Edition of The Oberoi Group Scholarship Program Following Resounding Success of Inaugural Year

New Delhi, 14 August, 2025 – Building on the success of its inaugural year, The Oberoi Group is delighted to announce the second edition of The Oberoi Group Scholarship Program. This pioneering initiative honours the legacy of Rai Bahadur Mohan Singh Oberoi and Mr. Prithvi Raj Singh Oberoi as it creates the next generation of hospitality leaders through world-class education and international exposure.

Launched in 2024, the program received exceptional interest from hospitality professionals across India, reaffirming the Group’s position as a global icon in luxury hospitality. Inspired by the vision of Rai Bahadur Mohan Singh Oberoi, the father of the Indian hotel industry, and Mr. Prithvi Raj Singh Oberoi, who elevated Indian luxury hospitality to global acclaim, the program is designed to foster leadership in the industry and excellence in hospitality.

The Oberoi Group will once again offer two prestigious scholarships:

Rai Bahadur Mohan Singh Oberoi – ‘Dare to Dream’ Scholarship: Open to hotel operations executives from hotels outside The Oberoi Group in India, this scholarship encourages hospitality professionals to aim high and pursue excellence in their careers, embodying Rai Bahadur’s belief in ambition and perseverance.

Mr. Prithvi Raj Singh Oberoi – ‘Be the Best’ Scholarship: Available for hotel operations executives from The Oberoi Group in India and overseas, this scholarship inspires recipients to set new benchmarks in luxury and service, reflecting Mr. Prithvi Raj Singh Oberoi’s commitment to perfection in guest experiences.

Each scholarship recipient will pursue a Master of Business Administration in Hospitality at École Hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL), Switzerland – one of the world’s most prestigious hospitality management schools. The two-year MBA combines virtual learning with a three-week immersive experience at the EHL campus in Lausanne each year, complemented by a Best Practice Tour at some of the world’s finest hotels.

First Edition Highlights

The inaugural edition in 2024 saw two outstanding hospitality professionals earn these coveted scholarships after a seven-stage selection process involving interviews, psychometric assessments, and personality evaluations.

Dare to Dream Scholarship: Ms. Kritika Sharma, Executive Housekeeper, Taj Westend, Bangalore
Be the Best Scholarship: Ms. Alisha Rampal, Hotel Manager, Trident, Bandra Kurla, Mumbai

Both recipients are currently enrolled in the EHL MBA program, embarking on an extraordinary learning journey that combines academic excellence with international exposure.

Ms. Kritika Sharma, Taj West End, Bengaluru recipient of the Rai Bahadur Mohan Singh Oberoi – ‘Dare to Dream’ Scholarship, said: “This has been a life-changing opportunity. It has given me the confidence to dream bigger and the tools to turn those dreams into reality. The program at École Hôtelière de Lausanne is not only expanding my knowledge of hospitality management but also broadening my perspective on global best practices. I am deeply grateful to The Oberoi group for investing in the growth of hospitality professionals across the industry.”

Ms. Alisha Rampal, Director – Food & Beverage, Trident, Bandra Kurla, Mumbai, and recipient of the Mr. Prithvi Raj Singh Oberoi – ‘Be the Best’ Scholarship, said, “The Oberoi Group Scholarship has been an inspiring journey of learning and self-discovery. The exposure to world-class education at École Hôtelière de Lausanne, coupled with the opportunity to engage with some of the finest minds in hospitality, has strengthened my resolve to deliver excellence in every aspect of guest experience. I am honoured to carry forward the values and vision of The Oberoi Group and am committed to applying this learning to elevate our industry’s standards.”

Mr. K.B. Kachru, President – Hotels Association of India, said, “ The Oberoi Group Scholarship Program is a transformative step towards shaping the future of hospitality in India. By empowering young talent with world-class education, The Oberoi Group is fostering innovation and excellence that will resonate across the industry. The Hotels Association of India fully endorses this inspiring initiative.”

Mr. Arjun Oberoi, Executive Chairman, The Oberoi Group, commented, “The inaugural edition of the Scholarship Program reinforced our belief in the importance of nurturing talent for the future of hospitality. We are proud to launch its second edition, carrying forward the legacy of our founders by supporting exceptional individuals to become world-class hoteliers.”

Mr. Vikram Oberoi, CEO – The Oberoi Group, further added, “Our founders believed in the transformative power of continuous learning and mentorship. Building on the success of the first edition, inspires us to continue investing in people who will shape the future of hospitality with a deep understanding of our business, innovation, leadership, and a commitment to exceptional guest experiences.”

The Oberoi Group Scholarship Program remains a testament to the Group’s unwavering commitment to excellence in hospitality and its vision to cultivate leaders who will continue to raise the standards of hospitality worldwide.