12, Jan 2026
Kotak Mahindra Bank strengthens Leadership Team with appointment of Anup Kumar Saha as Whole-time Director
Bengaluru, Jan
12: Kotak Mahindra Bank (“Kotak”) announced the appointment of Anup Kumar Saha as Whole-time Director, subject to regulatory approvals. Till such time, Anup will act as Whole-time Director (Designate) and will be a part of Senior Management from January 12, 2026.
Anup most recently served as Managing Director at Bajaj Finance, where over eight years he played a pivotal role in transforming the company into one of India’s leading and most profitable NBFCs in consumer finance. He led business transformation, digital innovation and customer-focused strategies, expanding the customer base to 100 million and diversifying the product portfolio.
Anup previously spent 14 years at ICICI Bank in senior leadership roles, building deep expertise in consumer and retail banking, data analytics and digital transformation.
At Kotak, Anup will oversee Consumer Banking, Marketing and Data Analytics functions, reinforcing Kotak’s leadership depth and driving customer-centric transformation, digital innovation and data-led strategies.
Welcoming him, CS Rajan, Chairman of the Board, Kotak Mahindra Bank said, “We are delighted to welcome Anup to Kotak’s Board. His leadership in scaling businesses, driving digital transformation and building customer-centric organizations will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our position in the financial sector.”
Ashok Vaswani, MD & CEO, Kotak Mahindra Bank added, “Anup’s appointment underscores Kotak’s commitment to building a market-leading financial services business and a strong bench of experienced leaders. His extensive understanding of retail finance, data-driven growth and innovation will help us accelerate our strategy and deliver even greater value to our customers.”
“I am excited and honored to join Kotak, one of India’s most trusted financial services conglomerate. I look forward to working with the leadership team to build on this strong foundation, drive innovation, deepen customer relationships and create value for all stakeholders,” said Anup Kumar Saha.
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- By Neel Achary
12, Jan 2026
Haier India Expands Its Entertainment Footprint as Official Appliance Partner of Telugu Blockbuster Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu
India, Jan 12: Haier Appliances India, the No.1 global major appliances brand for 17 consecutive years, marks another shining presence on the Telugu big screen as the Official Appliance Partner of the upcoming blockbuster Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu. Building on its growing presence in the entertainment ecosystem, this association reflects Haier’s long-term brand strategy of becoming an integral part of culturally significant moments that resonate deeply with Indian audiences.
Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu brings together a stellar ensemble cast featuring Megastar Chiranjeevi, Nayanthara and Venkatesh Daggubati is slated for a grand theatrical release on January 12, 2026. Haier’s branding takes centre stage from the very first consumer touchpoint, with a prominent presence in the trailer unveiled on January 4, ensuring strong visibility and reinforcing the brand’s seamless integration into this much-anticipated cinematic experience.
As the Official Appliance Partner, Haier brings its Lumiere refrigerator and Mini LED television to life on the Telugu big screen, seamlessly integrated into the film’s narrative and reinforcing the brand’s presence in home settings that audiences naturally relate to. These appearances do more than showcase products; they capture the rhythm of modern Indian living, where innovation, comfort and style coexist effortlessly. By becoming part of the narrative, Haier moves beyond visibility to meaningful connection, allowing viewers to experience the brand as a reflection of contemporary lifestyles and aspirations.
This collaboration marks a new milestone in Haier India’s brand journey. By partnering with high-impact regional cinema that commands massive fan engagement and cross-generational appeal, Haier strengthens its cultural relevance in South India while reinforcing its pan-India presence. Through its growing presence in the film ecosystem, Haier India is redefining brand engagement, moving beyond functional leadership to become an integral part of the stories, aspirations and everyday moments that matter most to consumers.
12, Jan 2026
Women Apprentices Surge 58percent in Three Years to 197,000: TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship Report
Jan 12: TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship, in collaboration with the GAN Global (a global multi‑sector apprenticeship alliance) and the India Employer Forum, has released its latest report, Her Path, Her Power: Revolutionizing Women’s Careers Through Apprenticeship. The report shows that women apprentices have increased from 124,000 in 2021–22 to 196,914 in 2023–24. This steady growth highlights how structured apprenticeship programmes are bridging gender gaps, expanding access to skills, and driving inclusive workforce participation across India.
Women currently contribute only 18% to India’s GDP, despite their critical role in the economy, and a significant portion remains outside the formal workforce, with 60% of working-age women not participating. The Female Labour Force Participation Rate stands at 29% for ages 15-29, 45% for ages 15-59, and 31.7% overall, among the lowest globally. Projections indicate that India’s female workforce may reach 255 million by 2047, achieving 45% participation, yet leaving 145 million women absent from the workforce needed to meet national growth ambitions. This gap is reflected in sectoral numbers: in 2021, 1.38 million women were employable against a demand of 3.35 million, leaving a gap of 1.97 million. By 2027, employable women are expected to reach 2.01 million, still below the 3.82 million required, leaving a persistent deficit of 1.81 million.
The gap is especially stark in rural areas, where 70% of women are expected to remain outside the labour force by 2047. While 30% of urban and peri-urban women, though better educated, face job-role mismatches, wage disparities, and undervaluation of domestic work. Closing this gap could boost India’s GDP by 27%, improving household incomes, living standards, and productivity. But despite rising female enrolment in higher education, many women still do not transition into the workforce. Between 2014–15 and 2021–22, enrolment increased by 32%, yet gaps persist, especially in STEM. Women make up 42–43% of undergraduate enrolments, but only 28–30% in engineering and technology, mainly in computer science, IT, and electronics. Representation in core engineering disciplines remains below 20%, and workforce participation in STEM roles is just 14–16%, constrained by workplace bias, lack of mentorship, and socio-cultural expectations. Degree Apprenticeships that combine academic learning with hands-on experience are emerging as a critical pathway to help women upskill, reskill, and move into meaningful employment.
Structured apprenticeships are translating this potential into tangible workforce participation, with rising engagement across IT and BPM, retail, automotive, electronics, BFSI, tourism and hospitality, food processing, life sciences, logistics, and healthcare. Hyderabad leads with 42% women apprentices in 2024, while Kolkata and Chennai show steady gains. Yet, challenges remain: 38% of organisations report having no female apprentices, 26% indicate women make up just 1–10% of their apprentice pool, and only 2% achieve over 50% representation, highlighting the need for sustained focus on inclusion and targeted interventions.
The report also provides targeted recommendations to enhance women’s participation in apprenticeships. Government initiatives should scale programmes in high-growth sectors and strengthen schemes such as NAPS and NATS. They should implement recognition of prior learning frameworks to acknowledge existing skills. Enabling infrastructure, including childcare, safe transport, and housing, should be provided to support women apprentices. Public-private partnerships can establish women-centric skilling hubs, Centres of Excellence, and state-specific financial incentives.
Employers should integrate women into core apprenticeship strategies through flexible and hybrid models, mentorship programmes, inclusive work environments, and anti-discrimination policies. Training providers should deliver industry-relevant, women-focused programmes, use hybrid learning to overcome mobility constraints, and ensure clear pathways to employment. Civil society and NGOs can raise awareness, shift mindsets, support underserved women, and advocate for policy inclusion.
Dr. Nipun Sharma, CEO, TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship, said, “Expanding women’s participation through apprenticeships represents a significant opportunity for India’s workforce. Female enrolment has grown by nearly 58 percent over the last three years, yet women continue to account for less than one-fifth of the total apprentice base, indicating substantial untapped potential. At the same time, sectors such as manufacturing, electric mobility, and telecom face skill gaps of 40–50 percent, while high-growth industries including IT, automotive, and healthcare require job-ready talent. Structured, sector-aligned apprenticeship programmes enable women to gain real work experience, strengthen practical skills, and improve employability. For employers, this approach supports a broader, reliable, and more diverse talent pool. When designed around real workplace exposure, apprenticeships help improve workforce participation, productivity, and long-term career outcomes.”
Kathryn Rowan, Executive Director, GAN Global, said, “Empowering women through apprenticeships is not just a matter of equity—it is an economic imperative. This report underscores how structured, work-based learning can dismantle systemic barriers, open doors to high-growth sectors, and create pathways for women to thrive as leaders and innovators. At GAN, we believe that when businesses invest in inclusive apprenticeship programs, it’s a triple win for women, communities, and companies, building a more resilient, adaptable, and diverse talent pipeline.”
Her Path, Her Power underscores that structured apprenticeships can unlock India’s untapped female workforce. These programmes bridge skills gaps and create inclusive opportunities across regions and sectors. They drive career growth for women and generate substantial economic gains, contributing to India’s Vision 2047 target of a $30 trillion economy, of which $18 trillion will be contributed by women.
12, Jan 2026
IIT Roorkee and Masai Launch Technology Programmes to Build Job-Ready Digital Talent
Roorkee, Uttarakhand Jan 12: The Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee), through its Electronics & ICT Academy (E&ICT Academy), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Masai to jointly launch a set of online certification programmes aimed at addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in emerging AI-driven and digital technology domains.
Under this collaboration, the programmes are designed and delivered through the E&ICT Academy, IIT Roorkee, with a focus on providing industry-relevant, application-oriented training in areas such as Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (DS-AI), Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI-ML), Software Engineering with AI, and Prompt Engineering. The programmes emphasise the development of practical, job-ready competencies aligned with evolving workforce requirements.
As India’s digital and AI-enabled economy continues to expand, organisations increasingly seek professionals with a sound understanding of core programming concepts, responsible use of AI and ML tools, workflow automation, and the ability to build production-ready applications. The programmes offered under this initiative aim to support both entry-level learners and working professionals, including those from non-technical backgrounds, through a structured blend of live instructional sessions and hands-on learning.
Each programme will culminate in a capstone project, enabling participants to develop a portfolio that demonstrates their ability to apply technology and AI solutions to real-world business problem statements.
Speaking on the initiative, Prof. Sanjeev Manhas, Chief Investigator, E&ICT Academy, IIT Roorkee, said, “The digital ecosystem today requires professionals who can apply AI, ML, and software development skills to address real-world challenges. Through the E&ICT Academy, IIT Roorkee seeks to strengthen the academic–industry interface by enabling learners not only to understand emerging technologies, but to apply them responsibly. These programmes are structured to support India’s future workforce needs in priority technology domains.”
Prof. K. K. Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee, said, “IIT Roorkee places strong emphasis on capacity building in emerging digital and AI-driven technologies as part of its national responsibility in higher education and skill development. Through the E&ICT Academy, the Institute continues to strengthen industry-aligned training initiatives that combine academic rigour with practical application. Such collaborations are intended to support the development of job-ready digital talent in alignment with national digital and innovation priorities.”
Prateek Shukla, CEO and Co-Founder of Masai, said, “This collaboration with IIT Roorkee enables the delivery of programmes that combine academic depth with practical learning. The initiative aims to help learners build meaningful portfolios and enhance their preparedness for technology roles in an increasingly AI-driven job market.”
Participants who successfully complete the coursework and assessments will receive a certificate from the E&ICT Academy, IIT Roorkee. In addition to the online modules, learners will have the option to participate in a two- to three-day campus immersion programme at IIT Roorkee, including project presentations and certificate and grade sheet distribution
10, Jan 2026
Residential Sales Hold Momentum in 2025; Over 348,000 Units Sold: Knight Frank India
Mumbai, Jan 10: Knight Frank India’s flagship report, India Real Estate: Office and Residential Market July to December 2025 (H2 2025), highlights that the country’s residential real estate market maintained steady momentum in 2025, closing the year with approximately 348,247 units sold across India’s top eight cities a marginal 1% decline year-on-year (YoY).
H2 2025 Performance:
The second half of 2025 saw 178,406 units sold, marking the highest H2 performance since 2013. Despite rising unsold inventory, the quarters-to-sell (QTS) ratio remained stable at 5.8, indicating healthy market absorption.
City-wise Highlights:
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Mumbai retained its leadership with 97,188 units sold, up 1% YoY.
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NCR sales declined 9% YoY to 52,452 units due to selective market activity and elevated base effects.
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Chennai and Hyderabad posted robust growth, with sales up 12% and 4% YoY, respectively.
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Bengaluru remained broadly stable, while Pune saw a 3% YoY contraction.
Residential Price Trends:
Prices continued to rise across major markets, led by NCR with 19% YoY growth, followed by Hyderabad (13%), Bengaluru (12%), and Mumbai (7%). Price appreciation was driven by the launch of higher-value properties, rising construction and land costs, and growing demand for premium homes.
Shift Toward Higher-Value Housing:
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Homes priced above INR 1 crore accounted for 50% of total sales in 2025, totaling 175,091 units—a 14% YoY increase.
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Mid-segment homes (INR 50 lakh–1 crore) declined 8% YoY.
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Affordable housing (under INR 50 lakh) recorded a sharp 17% decline, reflecting structural constraints, limited availability, and selective buyer demand.
This trend indicates a polarization in the market, with end-users increasingly opting for higher-quality, higher-value homes, while lower-ticket segments face subdued activity.
Inventory and Market Health:
Supply remained active, with new launches outpacing sales in most cities. Despite this, market health remained stable, supported by manageable inventory levels and efficient absorption. Key metrics:
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Mumbai: 155,604 units unsold (-6% YoY), QTS 6.4
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NCR: 104,969 units unsold (-2% YoY), QTS 7.6
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Bengaluru: 67,518 units unsold (+25% YoY), QTS 4.9
Expert Insights:
Shishir Baijal, International Partner, Chairman & MD, Knight Frank India, said,
“India’s residential market in 2025 has entered a phase of consolidation at elevated levels. Sales reflect genuine end-user demand rather than episodic spikes. While the affordable segment faces pressure, stable inventory levels and low quarters-to-sell indicate a structurally balanced market moving into 2026.”
Gulam Zia, International Partner and Senior Executive Director, Knight Frank India, added,
“Growth appears to be peaking, with premium homes now dominating sales. Cities like Chennai and Hyderabad are growing rapidly, while larger markets like Mumbai and Bengaluru continue absorbing supply steadily. Overall, the sector remains active, disciplined, and structurally sound.”
Outlook for 2026:
While rapid volume expansion may be limited after two years of peak sales, selective price appreciation, stable absorption, and disciplined supply additions are expected to define residential market activity in 2026. Premium segments are likely to continue supporting overall volumes, even as affordable housing segments remain under pressure.
10, Jan 2026
A Cultural Pause on the Travel Calendar: Thomas Cook India & SOTC Travel on Harvest Journeys
As India enters its annual harvest-festival season, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel observe that this period presents travellers with a unique opportunity for short, culturally immersive journeys. Rooted in gratitude, seasonality, and community, these celebrations unfold not in stadiums or auditoriums, but in homes, village squares, rooftops, and riverbanks—making mid-January an especially meaningful time to explore India at a slower, more intimate pace.
1. Tamil Nadu — Where Mornings Begin with Pongal
In Tamil Nadu, the harvest season begins with quiet, early-morning rituals—intricate kolams drawn at doorsteps, rice simmering in earthen pots, and temple bells echoing through neighbourhoods. Travellers visiting destinations such as Madurai and Thanjavur often find that the essence of the celebration lies in observing everyday traditions, from dawn temple visits to shared festive meals and heritage walks through historic streets.
2. Ahmedabad — When the City Looks Up
Uttarayan brings a visible transformation to Ahmedabad’s skyline, as rooftops turn into vibrant gathering spaces. Kite flying, conversations across terraces, and simple festive fare define the celebration. Beyond the rooftops, travellers often explore the old city, stepwells, and riverfronts, creating a well-rounded urban escape shaped by local culture.
3. Punjab — Lohri by Firelight
As winter evenings deepen, Lohri celebrations draw communities together around glowing bonfires. In cities like Amritsar and the countryside around Chandigarh, travellers experience folk songs, traditional dances, and shared meals in warm, intimate settings. The festival pairs naturally with daytime explorations of Punjabi cuisine, cultural landmarks, and rural life.
4. Assam — Magh Bihu Along the River
Magh Bihu in Assam is marked by community feasts, traditional games, and open-air gatherings. Travellers often combine the festival with Brahmaputra river journeys, visits to tea estates, and time near wildlife reserves, where celebrations remain closely tied to nature and the agricultural calendar.
5. Prayagraj — Along the Sangam at the Magh Mela
During the harvest-festival phase, the Sangam in Prayagraj becomes the focal point of the Magh Mela, often described as a smaller yet deeply significant counterpart to the Kumbh. Travellers encounter ritual bathing, spiritual discourses, and cultural performances across temporary riverbank settlements—offering an immersive view of faith, community, and tradition converging.
6. Gangasagar — Where the River Meets the Sea
At Gangasagar, where the Ganga meets the Bay of Bengal, pilgrims gather for ritual dips and prayers amid elemental contrasts of water, wind, and devotion. Travellers visiting during this time experience a deeply atmospheric journey, often pairing it with time in Kolkata or coastal explorations, making it a reflective addition to mid-January travel.
7. Rajasthan — Kites Against Heritage Backdrops
Across Rajasthan, harvest festivities unfold against dramatic backdrops of forts, palaces, and bustling bazaars. Kite-filled skies, temple visits, and seasonal delicacies add a festive layer to destinations such as Jaipur and Jodhpur, allowing travellers to blend heritage exploration with local celebrations.
According to Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel, the mid-January harvest-festival period is particularly well-suited for short, experience-led travel. Defined by simple, authentic moments—shared rooftops, riverside gatherings, and evening bonfires—these journeys invite travellers to connect with India’s living traditions while exploring the country at an unhurried, meaningful pace.
10, Jan 2026
NAVIG8 Returns with Its Second Edition: Redefining India’s Built Environment Dialogue
Hyderabad, Jan 10: Following a highly successful debut in Bengaluru, NAVIG8 returns with its Second Edition, reaffirming its position as one of India’s most curated and influential platforms for the architecture, design, real estate, hospitality, and building materials ecosystem. Designed as a focused industry forum rather than a conventional exhibition, the two-day event will bring together 500+ eminent architects, interior designers, builders, developers, industry leaders, global experts, and top decision-makers from across the country. NAVIG8 creates a high-impact environment for collaboration, innovation, and meaningful business exchange across the built environment value chain.
“NAVIG8 was conceived as a curated ecosystem rather than a conventional exhibition,” said Sandhya Warrior- chief Visionary Strategist, NAVIG8. “The Hyderabad edition reflects the evolution of India’s building materials and construction landscape—where meaningful conversations, global perspectives, and decision-makers come together to create long-term value for the industry.”
Strong Industry & Institutional Support
The second edition of NAVIG8 is supported by leading national and regional industry bodies, underscoring its credibility and relevance within the sector. These include:
- Indian Institute of Architects (IIA)
- Indian Society of Landscape Architects (ISOLA)
- Malabar Association of Architects & Allied Professionals (MALABAR A2Z)
- Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India – Telangana (CREDAI Telangana)
- National Real Estate Development Council – Telangana (NAREDCO Telangana)
- Association of Consulting Civil Engineers (India) – ACCE (I)
- Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI)
- Telangana Valuers Association (TVA)
- Indian Association of Structural Engineers (IASTRUCTE)
- Forum of Civil Engineering Organizations & Users Committee (FOCUS)
- Indian Concrete Institute (ICI), along with several other prominent professional associations.
NAVIG8 is also strengthened by government participation, reinforcing its role as a credible, future-facing forum shaping conversations around India’s built environment.
Global Voices & National Visionaries
Adding a strong international perspective, NAVIG8 will host distinguished global speakers including:
- Ar. Kasun C. Perera – Sri Lanka
- Parpis Lee – Thailand
- Darryl Custer – Dubai
- Kimberly Tryba – New York
- Nadia Ibrahim – Surbana Jurong, Dubai
These voices will be joined by 50+ leading visionaries from across India, creating a powerful exchange of global insight and local expertise.
A Curated Platform for Decision Makers
NAVIG8 attracts a highly targeted and influential audience comprising:
- Leading Architects & Interior Designers
- Top Builders & Developers
- Valuers & Procurement Consultants
- Engineers & Project Management Experts
- Hospitality Leaders & Hotel Chains
- Policymakers, regulators, and institutional representatives
- Educational institutions, colleges, students, and faculty members
The platform is curated to ensure direct engagement between brands and stakeholders who influence specification, procurement, and project execution.
Knowledge, Dialogue & Innovation
The second edition of NAVIG8 will feature:
- High-impact keynote addresses and panel discussions
- Participation from international speakers and global design voices
- Insight-led conversations on architecture, materials, technology, and evolving market dynamics
- Association-led sessions fostering professional exchange and collaboration
- A dedicated College Installation Program, showcasing student innovation, creativity, and emerging design thinking
A Growing Industry Movement
With an overwhelming response from industry-leading brands, professional bodies, and practitioners, NAVIG8 continues to evolve as a purpose-driven industry movement—bridging design intent, material innovation, and real-world execution.The Second Edition of NAVIG8 promises a more refined, focused, and influential experience, setting new benchmarks for installations, knowledge exchange, and industry engagement in India’s built environment landscape.
10, Jan 2026
Hansraj College Clinches Mahatma Hansraj Memorial T20 Title with Dominant Victory
NEW DELHI – Hansraj College delivered a clinical performance today to lift the Mahatma Hansraj Memorial T20 Cricket Tournament trophy, defeating Miranda House by a massive 127 runs in a one-sided final.
Tarun’s Century Powers Hansraj to 225
Electing to bat first, Hansraj College set the stage on fire by posting a daunting total of 225 runs. The highlight of the innings was a sensational century by Tarun, who dismantled the opposition bowling attack. He smashed 130 runs off just 57 deliveries, a knock decorated with 19 boundaries and 6 towering sixes.
Supporting the onslaught, Mohit Tyagi contributed a solid 41 runs, while Captain Satish Pathak added a crucial 20 runs to ensure the team reached a formidable score.
Miranda House Collapses Under Pressure
Faced with a mountain to climb, the Miranda House batting lineup crumbled early. They failed to find any momentum and were eventually bowled out for 98 runs in 19 overs. Captain Sonu Giri was the top scorer for the side, though he managed only 13 runs as wickets fell at regular intervals.
Award Ceremony
The match concluded with a grand presentation ceremony. The Chief Guest, Professor Vijay Lakshmi, Principal of Miranda House, lauded the spirit of the game and presented the championship trophy to the winning captain, Satish Pathak.
9, Jan 2026
Javaphile Café Opens in Worli, Bringing Specialty Coffee Rituals to Mumbai’s Vibrant Neighbourhood
Mumbai, Jan 09: Mumbai’s beloved neighbourhood café, Javaphile Café, has opened its latest flagship outlet in Worli a dynamic locale that seamlessly blends legacy charm with modern living and a creative pulse. Renowned for its rich coffee culture, comforting all-day menu, and welcoming spaces, the Worli café offers a retreat for those seeking moments of pause amid the city’s fast pace.
A Thoughtful Expansion
More than just a new outlet, the Worli café represents Javaphile’s intentional expansion into a neighbourhood where mornings start early, workdays run long, and coffee breaks are cherished. The space embodies the brand’s signature warmth cozy, unpretentious, and inviting—ideal for solo visits, informal meetings, relaxed brunches, or extended work sessions.
Coffee, Always at the Core
True to its roots, Javaphile continues to champion coffee craftsmanship. The Worli café serves a full spectrum of brews, from classic espressos, cappuccinos, and flat whites to signature creations like Sea Salt Mocha, Spiced Latte, and Java Chip Frappe. Cold brew enthusiasts can explore inventive options such as Citrus, Elderflower, Sweet Lime, and Cucumber & Cream Cold Brews, while purists can enjoy manual brewing methods including Chemex, AeroPress, Origami Pour Over, and French Press.
Comfort-Led, Elevated Food
The menu complements the coffee experience while standing strong on its own. Guests can enjoy breakfast classics like Akuri Scramble on Toast, Shakshuka, Eggs Benedict, and Turkish Eggs. For wholesome meals, options include Mediterranean and Asian Peanut Grain Bowls, Chicken Makhani and Mexican Fajita Bowls, vegan chia bowls, gourmet tartines, hearty sandwiches, and protein-rich wraps. Desserts are a highlight, featuring French Toast in flavors like Tiramisu, Raspberry Cream Cheese, Banana Chocolate, and Blueberry—perfect for leisurely brunches or mid-day indulgences.
A Familiar Neighbourhood Space
Designed to feel effortlessly familiar, Javaphile Café in Worli combines approachable service with a premium menu, creating a refined yet relaxed experience. Guests can enjoy everyday luxury without formality, making the café a natural part of their daily routines.
Founder’s Note
Suren Joshi, Founder of Javaphile Café, said,
“Javaphile has always been about creating spaces where people can slow down, even if just for a cup of coffee. Worli felt like a natural next step—a neighbourhood that values quality, routine, and good food. This café is designed to be familiar, dependable, and welcoming, whether you’re stepping in for five minutes or staying for hours.”
With its Worli opening, Javaphile Café continues to strengthen its presence across Mumbai, staying true to its philosophy of great coffee, honest food, and inviting spaces—quietly becoming part of the city’s everyday rhythm.
9, Jan 2026
Audible Celebrates World Hindi Day with Stories by Bestselling Authors
On World Hindi Day, the spotlight turns to a language that has always carried stories across generations, now finding renewed resonance in how India listens. As audio becomes an increasingly intimate way to consume stories, Hindi is emerging as a powerful bridge between global stories and the audiences here. From epic Indian histories to internationally loved classics on purpose, ambition and self-growth, familiar stories are taking on fresh depth when heard in Hindi. Reflecting this shift, Audible expanded its Hindi catalogue over the past year, bringing together bestselling Indian and international authors across genres mythology, fiction, leadership and self-help so that stories don’t just travel across borders, but land closer to home. We’ve picked some, for you to experience and commemorate this World Hindi Day!
The Naga Warriors: Battle of Gokul Vol. 1
Author: Akshat Gupta
The Naga Warriors chronicles the epic tale of the Naga sadhus, warriors and monks, who dedicated their lives solely to defending their faith and people. Set against the backdrop of 1757, the fiction piece follows a small band of 111 Nagas who stand their ground in Gokul against a massive invasive Afghan force. Led by the fierce Ajaa, their fight is not about victory or survival but about honour, belief and standing up for what they hold sacred. Combining elements of mythology, history and emotion, this story shows how devotion can turn ordinary men into legends. The Hindi audiobook is narrated by Ashish Vidyarthi, whose commanding voice adds weight, density and intensity into the soul of warriors and their sacrifice.
Bharat ka Rakshak Maharaja Suheldev
Author: Amish Tripathi
Bharat ka Rakshak Maharaja Suheldev tells the remarkable life of India’s unsung king, Maharaja Suheldev, who resisted foreign invasions in 1025 AD when much of North India was under threat. The audiobook traces how Sueldev, despite ruling a small kingdom, gathers courage and strength to project his land, people and secret sites, choosing strength over surrender. Rooted in history and brought alive through dramatic storytelling, this book highlights themes of bravery, sacrifice and duty, especially during the Battle of Bahraich, where Suheldev emerges as a symbol of hope, patriotism and resilience in the face of adversity. The Hindi audiobook narrated by Neha Gargava, captures the heroic history of India with a clear and emotive voice.
Kane & Abel
Author: Jeffrey Archer
Kane & Abel is a deeply engaging saga about two men born on the same day but into opposite worlds. With one living a life of wealth and privilege, the other is grinding out of poverty and struggle. In this must-read, William “Kane” Kane is raised as a Boston banking heir with money, status and expectations while Abel Rosnovski is born as an impoverished Polish immigrant who fought to stay alive while creating something out of nothing. Though their paths rarely cross, their ambitions, pride and rivalry draw them into a fierce clash for power, fortune and legacy that spans decades and shapes the course of both their lives. This story is not about business or wealth but the twists of fate, heartbreak, war, betrayal and the unexpected connections across generations.
The Alchemist
Author: Paulo Coelho
The Alchemist, is a gentle yet powerful story about Santiago, a young shepherd who leaves his familiar life to follow a recurring dream about hidden treasure near the Egyptian pyramids. Santiago’s journey takes him through deserts and other unfamiliar lands, but on the way he develops self-belief, patience and gains the courage to meet his goal. During his journey, he meets mentors and strangers who team him to trust his instinct, read the signs of life places in front of him and realize that his fear is the greatest obstacle to happiness. At its heart, the book reminds us that pursuing our dreams gives life meaning, and that the real reward often lies in chasing them. In this Hindi edition, the narrator, Babla Kochhar enhances the story’s meditative tone with his calm and reflective voice, providing an opportunity for listeners to find peace and introspect through this work.
Atomic Habits
Author: James Clear
Atomic Habits is a practical, self-improvement audiobook that shows how tiny, every day changes can lead to significant life-changing results by reshaping your behaviour and environment to support better routines and break old, unhelpful ones. Rather than relying on willpower or big goals, the author explains how small efforts compound over time, offering clear strategies for building good habits, eliminating bad-ones and designing systems that help you get 1% better every day, backed by psychology and real world examples.
Leader in You
Author: Dale Carnegie
Leader In You is a practical leadership and self-development audiobook that teaches listeners how to unlock the leader within themselves by strengthening their confidence, communication, decision-making and influence over other people. The author uses the principles of human behaviour and leadership psychology to demonstrate how successful leaders think and communicate their ideas in a way that creates a positive impact on the people around them. The author also stresses on how leadership has nothing to do with a person’s job title but a set of everyday skills that anyone can develop. The audiobook is narrated in Hindi by Anil Datt, who advises listeners how to develop themselves professionally and personally, with a clear and motivating voice.
Ikigai
Author: Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles
The Ikigai Journey offers a practical and uplifting guide to discovering deeper purpose, balance and joy in life. The book offers solutions on how to turn philosophical insights into everyday actions. Through 35 mindful stations and exercises, the author helps you reflect on your past decisions, clarify your future goals and live more in the present, while strengthening your sense of well-being and being. The Hindi audiobook is narrated by Abhishek Sharma, whose clear and thoughtful delivery makes these life-enriching lessons accessible and relatable as listeners explore how their passions, values, experiences and daily choices can shape a purposeful and happier life.
