29, Jan 2026
Archies Partners with Shark Tank–Backed Sudathi to Launch ‘TereSangForever’ Valentine’s Campaign
New Delhi, Jan 29: Archies, India’s iconic gifting brand renowned for helping people express emotions and celebrate relationships, has partnered with Sudathi, one of India’s most affordable saree brands, to launch a special Valentine’s Day cross-collaboration campaign titled “TereSangForever”. Rooted in nostalgia and the warmth of cherished memories, the campaign brings together Archies’ legacy of heartfelt gifting and Sudathi’s elegant ethnic fashion to celebrate renewed love, enduring companionship, and meaningful connections that stand the test of time.
The “TereSangForever” campaign is rooted in emotional storytelling and nostalgia, focusing on relationships that grow stronger over time. Through co-created digital content, curated gifting moments, and interactive giveaways, the collaboration positions the saree as a renewed symbol of love and commitment, paired with Archies’ timeless expressions of affection.
Sudathi will spotlight a thoughtfully curated range of sarees from Banarasi, Kanchipuram, and Paithani silks to cotton, chiffon, and georgette, crafted for celebrations, festive occasions, and everyday elegance. Complementing this, Archies will showcase its signature gifting portfolio, reinforcing how thoughtful gestures continue to play a meaningful role in modern relationships. A key highlight of the collaboration is a co-branded Valentine’s Day giveaway, offering prizes that pair a Sudathi saree with an Archies gift, encouraging deeper engagement and cross-brand discovery. Exclusive discount codes from both brands further enhance consumer participation.
Commenting on the collaboration, Hanisha Gandhi and Varun Moolchandani, Executive Directors, Archies, said,
“At Archies, love and emotions have always been at the core of our brand. With TereSangForever, we wanted to move beyond fleeting celebrations and bring the focus back to relationships that truly last. Partnering with Sudathi allows us to blend thoughtful gifting with timeless ethnic fashion, creating a Valentine’s Day narrative rooted in nostalgia, commitment, and meaningful expression.”
Sharing his thoughts, Viren Lathiya, Co-Founder, Sudathi, said,
“Sarees have always symbolised grace, emotion, and enduring bonds. Through TereSangForever, we are delighted to collaborate with Archies to reimagine the saree as a renewed expression of love this Valentine’s Day. This partnership beautifully blends tradition with modern relevance, making high-quality sarees more accessible and meaningful for today’s evolving relationships.”
Archies and Sudathi aim to redefine Valentine’s Day celebrations by blending gifting and fashion into a powerful expression of love that truly stands the test of time.
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- By Neel Achary
29, Jan 2026
EKA Mobility Signs Strategic MoU With HPCL to Develop Green Mobility Infrastructure at HPCL Retail Outlets
New Delhi, Jan 29: EKA Mobility and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on advancing sustainable mobility solutions and green energy initiatives across the country.
The partnership brings together EKA’s expertise in electric commercial vehicles and HPCL’s extensive nationwide energy and retail infrastructure to jointly develop, pilot, and scale innovative solutions across electric mobility, charging infrastructure, battery swapping, green hydrogen, and sustainable logistics
As part of the collaboration, EKA and HPCL will work towards leveraging HPCL’s extensive fuel retail network to develop charging infrastructure for commercial electric vehicles, including battery swapping stations where required.
HPCL is one of India’s largest state-owned oil and gas corporations, operating over 24,400 Retail Outlets nationwide and running over 5,300 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations under HP e-Charge brand.
The MoU holds strategic significance as India accelerates its transition toward green transportation. HPCL’s existing Retail Outlet footprint provides a strong platform for accelerated EV charging infrastructure deployment and seamless nationwide expansion.
The cooperation with HPCL represents the next step in the collective efforts of Eka Mobility, a leading Indian electric commercial vehicle manufacturer, to build a comprehensive EV ecosystem encompassing manufacturing, charging infrastructure, after-sales services, green hydrogen and sustainable logistics. This is regarded as an important foundation for realizing the goal of widespread electric vehicle adoption and promoting sustainable transportation in the world’s third largest automotive market.
29, Jan 2026
MediBuddy Strengthens Presence with New Indore Office
MediBuddy Expands National Footprint with New Indore Office; City Emerges as Company’s Second-Largest Hub
Jan 29: MediBuddy, India’s leading digital healthcare company, has expanded its national footprint with the launch of another new office in Indore, further strengthening its presence across key growth markets beyond metro cities. Located at the Brilliant Summit building in the Vijaya nagar area & managed by IndiQube, the new office marks an important milestone in MediBuddy’s expansion strategy, underlining its focus on decentralised growth, regional talent development, and operational scale. MediBuddy serves over 30 million users across India for their healthcare needs like Doctor consultations, Lab tests, Medicines, visioncare, second opinion and concierge services for surgery, home healthcare and many other services.
Indore’s rapid emergence as a technology and talent hub in central India made it a strategic choice for MediBuddy’s next phase of growth. The company began building its presence in the city just eight months ago, and the launch of this office reflects the pace and confidence with which MediBuddy is expanding in the region. Today, the Indore office is home to 400+ employees, expanding teams across technology, operations, and customer experience—enabling delivery of healthcare services across the country for users across the country.
The IndiQube workspace has been designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and a growth-oriented environment. With this addition, MediBuddy now operates at 10 locations across India, with Indore emerging as its second-largest office after Bengaluru—a testament to the company’s long-term commitment to the city and its talent ecosystem. The Indore office will support the company’s innovation roadmap and strengthen its ability to deliver accessible, and seamless healthcare at scale.
Commenting on the expansion, Satish Kannan, Co-founder and CEO, MediBuddy, said,
“As we continue to scale our healthcare ecosystem, expanding our capability centers in an emerging city like Indore is a key part of our long-term strategy. This office strengthens our operational capabilities while allowing us to tap into a strong talent pool that can contribute meaningfully to our growth journey .”
Adding to this, Enba, Co-founder & CTO, MediBuddy, said,
“Our expansion in Indore reflects MediBuddy’s
commitment to building a distributed, future-ready workforce. By investing in regional ecosystems, we are not only creating employment opportunities but also ensuring that innovation and decision-making happen closer to where our users are.”
Over the years, MediBuddy has evolved into one of India’s most widely used digital healthcare platforms, serving millions of users annually. Its end-to-end services—from consultations and diagnostics to medicine delivery and post-care support— are enabled by a nationwide network of 140,000+ doctors, alongside hospitals, diagnostic centres, and pharmacies, delivering coverage across more than 99% of India’s PIN codes.
With this latest expansion, MediBuddy continues to deepen its regional presence, reinforce its operational strength, and reaffirm its commitment to building inclusive, sustainable growth opportunities across India.
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”.
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.
