26, Sep 2025
Valvoline Cummins India Launches Nation’s First Full Synthetic CK4 Engine Oil for Next-Gen Diesel CVs
Hyderabad, September 2025: For more than 150 years, Valvoline has built a reputation as a pioneer in engine lubrication, from creating the world’s first trademarked engine oil brand to setting new performance benchmarks for fleets worldwide. Carrying forward this spirit of originality, Valvoline Cummins India has announced the launch of All Fleet Full Synthetic CK4, India’s first full synthetic CK4 engine oil in the Heavy Duty Engine Oil space. This industry-first innovation underscores Valvoline’s legacy of delivering cutting-edge, category-defining and industry first solutions that support the evolving demands of India’s commercial vehicle sector.
Cleaner Engines, Breakthrough Wear Protection
Specially engineered for modern heavy-duty diesel engines, the new oil provides 60% cleaner piston and 60% better wear protection compared to a market-standard oil meeting CK-4 specifications. It is suitable for all commercial vehicles meeting BSVI emission statndards and is backward compatible with BSIV, a huge relief for fleet operators enabling them to use India’s first full Synthetic oil for all engines platforms.
It’s high viscosity index ensures that the oil retains its optimal thickness even at extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, enabling smooth flow and reduced wear across a wide operating range. It’s better oxidation control ensures that the engine is protected from oxidation under extreme operating temperatures. These are essential for commercial vehicles operating in India’s harsh and varied driving conditions. With excellent low-temperature properties, the oil rapidly reaches every component of the engine, even in cold start conditions, minimizing metal-to-metal contact and providing vital protection from the moment the engine fires up. This ensures reduced friction, lower startup wear, and improved reliability during cold engine starts, a common challenge for fleets operating in North India’s colder regions.
Cost Effectiveness Meets Longevity
The lower volatity of the product resulting in reduced evaporation losses hence lower oil consumption, combined with its strong oxidation stability makes it a cost-effective and long-lasting choice for fleet operators. The robust formulation also helps the oil resist degradation over extended service intervals, ensuring long-term engine protection and cleaner engine internals.
Innovation for Modern Diesel Engines
Valvoline’s CK4 Full Synthetic is also fully compatible with modern after-treatment systems such as EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter), SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction), and DOC (Diesel Oxidation Catalyst), thanks to its low SAPS (Sulfated Ash, Phosphorus, Sulfur) formulation. It helps prevent filter blockage, maintains emissions compliance, and supports peak engine performance across new-generation and legacy commercial vehicles.
Speaking on the launch, Mr. Sandeep Kalia, Managing Director, Valvoline Cummins Pvt. Ltd., said “India is a key market for Valvoline, and we remain focused on bringing advanced, reliable solutions that support its evolving commercial vehicle landscape. The launch of Valvoline CK-4 Full Synthetic, the first of its kind in the country underscores our commitment to innovation built around real-world performance. Designed for demanding operating conditions, this product offers cleaner engines, longer drain intervals, and stronger wear protection, ultimately helping fleets reduce downtime and improve overall efficiency.”
Valvoline’s Full Synthetic CK-4 is now available through Valvoline Cummins India’s nationwide distribution network, including authorized dealers, fleet workshops, and commercial vehicle service centres.
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- By Neel Achary
26, Sep 2025
Summit Hotels and Resorts Makes Luxury Debut with The Summit in Siliguri
Siliguri, September 26, 2025: Summit Hotels & Resorts, Eastern India’s largest hospitality chain, announced its formal entry into the luxury hotel market with the launch of its flagship brand, The Summit, in Siliguri. Scheduled to open in May 2027, this landmark property signals a bold strategic expansion for the brand, long known for its mountain-based portfolio, into the high-end urban hospitality space.
Located in the heart of Siliguri, the critical gateway to Darjeeling, Sikkim, and Bhutan, Rhe Summit is conceived as Eastern India’s first true urban luxury resort. The 100-room property, with each room featuring a private balcony, will offer an elevated combination of city convenience and resort indulgence. Designed by Vivek Singh Rathore, Partner at Salient and a Forbes India “Bold Club” honoree, the resort will integrate contemporary global design standards with Eastern India’s cultural and natural heritage, making it both an architectural landmark and the brand’s corporate headquarters.
Setting a new benchmark for tier-2 hospitality, The Summit will position Siliguri as a premier destination for luxury weddings, large-scale corporate events, and high-end leisure travel. The property will feature the largest banquet facilities in Eastern India, capable of hosting up to 2,000 guests and managing 10 simultaneous events. A complete wedding ecosystem, with multiple indoor and outdoor venues, accommodation for large parties, and dedicated planning services will meet the growing demand in the region’s lucrative ₹1 crore-plus wedding market, which draws families from Bihar and Bengal. In the MICE segment, state-of-the-art conference technology will cater to the increasing corporate presence in Siliguri, offering premium meeting and event solutions previously unavailable in the city.
The lifestyle offering at The Summit will further differentiate it from existing hospitality options in the region. Guests will enjoy a diverse culinary programme spanning regional Himalayan specialties, international cuisine, rooftop dining with views of the city and mountains, and poolside grills. A dedicated wellness sanctuary will provide both traditional Himalayan therapies and contemporary beauty treatments, while a comprehensive recreational complex will introduce pickleball and squash courts, a multi-sport ground, indoor gaming zones, and a fully equipped fitness centre. Adding to Siliguri’s nightlife, the resort will house the city’s first 40-foot-high nightclub and lounge, offering panoramic views, international DJs, live entertainment, and premium mixology.
True to Summit’s commitment to responsible tourism, The Summit is targeting green building certifications, will create over 300 local jobs, and will work with local artisans and suppliers to bring authentic regional elements into its design and guest experience. The resort will also integrate water conservation measures and renewable energy solutions, ensuring that sustainability is embedded alongside luxury.
“This resort is our love letter to Siliguri and the entire region,” said Sumit Mitruka, CEO & Founder, Summit Hotels & Resorts. “For 15 years, we’ve welcomed guests to our mountain properties. Now, we’re bringing that same warmth and world-class hospitality to the city that’s been our home. The Summit is our bold step into the luxury market, a destination that will set new benchmarks for Eastern India and put Siliguri firmly on the national hospitality map.”
Industry observers have already noted the transformation of Siliguri into a sought-after wedding and events hub, with leading hotel brands eyeing entry into the market. While others are still in the planning stages, The Summit is already under development, making Summit Hotels & Resorts the first mover in addressing the critical gap for large, luxury event venues in Eastern India. The hotel represents the group’s largest single investment to date and forms a cornerstone of its vision to expand to 50 properties by 2030.
26, Sep 2025
PM Modi Lays Foundation Stone for Avaada Group’s 2500 MWh India’s Largest Storage Project
Rajasthan, September 26, 2025: Avaada Group, a diversified energy conglomerate, today marked a defining moment in the nation’s clean energy journey. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji laid the foundation stone of Avaada’s 1560 MWp Solar plus 2500 MWh Storage (BESS) project at Pugal and also inaugurated Avaada’s 200 MW (282 MWp) solar power project at Shri Dungargarh, Bikaner, Rajasthan.
Together, these two projects represent a combined investment of more than INR9,200 crore in Rajasthan’s renewable energy sector, reinforcing the State’s leadership as the hub of India’s green energy revolution.
Project Details
The 200 MW (282 MWp) Shri Dungargarh Solar Project spread over 777 acres in Bikaner will supply power to Rajasthan discoms thereby ensuring availability of cleaner and affordable power supply to the people of the State. It will be powered by Avaada Electro’s ALMM-certified, Make in India TOPCon N-Type bifacial solar PV modules, reflecting a strong emphasis on domestic manufacturing and technological innovation.
The 1560 MWp Solar plus 2500 MWh BESS Project at Pugal in the Bikaner district of Rajasthan, spread over 4000 acres in Pugal. The project, once complete, will aid in delivering solar power beyond solar hours by storing it in the Battery Energy Storage (BESS). It will enhance grid reliability and deliver firm green power. The plant will host BESS capacity installation with the state-of-the-art technology to be powered by Avaada Electro’s ALMM certified, Make in India TOPCon N-Type bifacial solar PV modules.
Both the projects are estimated to generate over 1600 green jobs in the State. The projects will cut down more than 20 lakh tons of CO₂ emissions annually and help conserve approximately 600 lakh litres of water annually through robotic cleaning.
On the occasion, Shri Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of New & Renewable Energy, Government of India said, “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, India has emerged as a global frontrunner in clean energy transition. The foundation stone of Avaada Group’s 1,560 MWp Solar Project integrated with a 2,500 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Bikaner marks a historic milestone in this journey. This project, the largest BESS in India till date, will deliver round-the-clock green power, enhance grid resilience, and set new benchmarks for the nation’s energy security.”
Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma ji, said, “I am delighted to see the MoU signed during Rising Rajasthan being converted into an operational project in less than a year. Many more projects of Avaada Group are moving into construction. We thank Avaada for investing in Rajasthan and creating jobs for our people.”
Mr. Vineet Mittal, Chairman of Avaada Group, said: “It is an honour to have the Hon’ble Prime Minister bless the foundation stone laying and inauguration of Avaada’s renewable energy projects. These projects are more than investments in megawatts – they are investments in India’s green future. Rajasthan is the beating heart of Avaada’s journey, and we are committed to empowering communities, creating livelihoods, and shaping a sustainable, self-reliant nation.”
Avaada has already commissioned 2.2 GW of renewable capacity in Rajasthan. The company’s operational portfolio stands at approximately 5.7 GWp across India.
These projects embody Avaada’s commitment to India’s goals of energy independence, decarbonisation, and sustainable growth, while delivering tangible socio-economic benefits for the people of Rajasthan.
26, Sep 2025
Zydus Foundation and GMC Partner to Transform Urban Spaces with Zydus GMC Garden at Khoraj
Zydus Foundation and Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation (GMC) sign MoU for transformation of urban public spaces, the Zydus GMC Garden at Khoraj
Gandhinagar, September 25, 2025: In a joint effort to boost sustainable urban development and community wellness, Zydus Foundation and Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation (GMC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the transformation and maintenance of the Khoraj public park at Gandhinagar – Zydus GMC Garden. The park covers an area of 55,000 sq. m.
The MoU was formally signed by Commissioner Shri J. N. Vaghela (IAS), GMC and Ms. Meha Patel, Vice Chairperson of Zydus Foundation. The event was graced by Shrimati Miraben Patel, Mayor, GMC. Shri Gaurangbhai Vyas, Standing Committee Chairman, GMC, Shri Anilsinh Vaghela, Garden Samiti Chairman Shrimati Sonaliben Patel, and Shri B.R, Ahir, Deputy Municipal Commissioner, GMC were also present on the occasion.
Mayor, Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation, Shrimati Miraben Patel commended Zydus and GMC for their collaborative initiative in promoting holistic wellness and a greener urban future and wished them all success in this endeavour.
The Municipal Commissioner, Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation, Shri J. N. Vaghela appreciated Zydus’ involvement in the project and also lauded their attention to specific details in ensuring that the park is equipped with amenities that support both health and environmental goals.
Speaking on the new initiative, Ms. Meha Patel, Vice Chairperson, Zydus Foundation, said, “Zydus is dedicated to life and an important part of this is community wellness. Together with GMC we are re-creating a space that nurtures wellness, strengthens community bonds, and reaffirms our commitment to building healthier and happier communities. The space has been designed with a lot of unique features like the first dedicated cycling track within a public park. Additional amenities include age-specific play areas, a yoga deck for meditation, and sculptures created by local artists to promote regional talent.”
Shri Gaurang Vyas, Chairman of the Standing Committee, Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation, expressed confidence in the initiative’s impact, describing it as both highly effective and innovative. He added that it would stand as a model Public–Private Partnership (PPP) for the Gandhinagar region.
Under this MoU, Zydus Foundation through Zydus CSR initiatives, will undertake the transformation and maintenance of the park for seven years, transforming it into a vibrant, ecofriendly and inclusive space that supports community wellness and promotes greener urban spaces.
26, Sep 2025
Solo Art Exhibition – Mishran : A Medley of Mediums
New Delhi, 26th September 2025: Artist Prenita Dutt will present her 18th solo exhibition, “Mishran: A Medley of Mediums,” at the Visual Art Gallery, India Habitat Centre, from October 1–5, 2025, from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.
“Mishran: A Medley of Mediums,” meaning a harmonious blend, brings together an evocative body of Prenita’s masterful exploration of paintings, ceramics and sculptures in fiberglass, bronze, and stone. Guided by her deep connection to nature, the exhibition transforms organic forms—seeds, branches, flowers, and stones—into a meditative dialogue between the ephemeral and the enduring. Each piece reflects the artist’s philosophy, transforming seeds, branches, flowers, clay, and stone into artworks that reflect memory, fragility, and resilience.
Describing the diversity of art forms on display Prenita Dutt explains “Nature is my constant. Whether on Paper, Canvas, Clay, or Stone, its shapes, textures, and rhythms guide my work. Each medium is a doorway to the same truth—that creation is a conversation between self and universe.”
The exhibition invites viewers to reflect on memory, healing, and the universal patterns of the natural world.
26, Sep 2025
Taiwan Excellence Pavilion Boosts Tech Ties to Power India’s Growth
Taiwan Excellence Pavillion Strengthens Technology and Innovation Partnerships to Power India’s Growth
New Delhi, September 26, 2025: Taiwan Excellence (TE), an initiative of Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), commenced its much-anticipated showcase today with the grand opening of the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion at Taiwan Expo India 2025, taking place from September 25–27, 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
The Taiwan Excellence Pavilion was inaugurated by Mr. James C.F. Huang, Chairman of Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), H.E. Dr. Mumin Chen, Representative – Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC), Mr. Sujeet Kumar, Member of Rajya Sabha, Mr. Rahul Kaswan, Member of Lok Sabha as part of their special tour of the pavilion and other dignitaries. Popular Delhi Born, Bollywood actress Esha Gupta who boasts a massive social media following of over 18 million+ also joined the opening ceremony as a special guest.
The presence of these dignitaries set the tone for a vibrant three-day showcase, highlighting Taiwan’s innovations and strengthening bilateral trade and technology ties with India. The cutting-edge Taiwan Excellence products captivated guests and attendees, leaving a lasting impression on all.
The Taiwan Excellence Pavilion is more than just an exhibition; it is a bridge of innovation and partnership. It not only showcases Taiwan’s leading technologies while deepening Taiwan’s engagement with India’s fast-growing economy. Taiwan is looking at collaboration in ICT, Smart Living, Healthcare, Advanced Gadgets, and Industrial Solutions in India.
Taiwan Excellence has actively supported India’s growth initiatives, including the Digital India and Make in India mission, by bringing cutting-edge innovations and technology to sectors ranging from consumer products to manufacturing and healthcare. Over the years, Taiwanese brands have steadily expanded their presence in India, reflecting strong interest from Indian businesses and consumers.
This year Taiwan Excellence Pavilion 2025 brings together 22 award-winning Taiwanese brands, including Advantech, AMA FANS, AVer, BeanBon, CHIMEI MOTOR, Cypress, IBASE, IPEVO, KENDA, LORRIC, MacroHi, MECOM, MicroBase, MSI, Phison, Proscend, TEAMGROUP, TOYO, Transcend, Vinxper, Z-COM, and Zyxel, with several making their India debut. Covering key sectors such as ICT, Smart Living, Intelligent Healthcare, Advanced Gadgets, and Industrial Applications, the pavilion underlines Taiwan’s commitment to creating sustainable and connected futures.
Among the highlights are Advantech’s EI-52 Edge Intelligence System powered by Intel 11th Gen processors with built-in AI, Aver’s 4K Dual Lens Video Bar and Auto Tracking Camera for next-gen conferencing, and CHIMEI MOTOR’s AI-driven vehicle safety systems for collision prevention and driver monitoring. In the wellness category, MacroHi introduces eco-certified scalp care products, while MSI showcases the Raider 18 HX AI Gaming Laptop, setting new benchmarks in high-performance gaming. Adding to the variety, Proscend presents its Industrial 8-Port PoE Long Reach Switch for AIoT connectivity, and Vinxper makes a global statement as the world’s first adjustable electric wine aerator, delivering precision decanting for an elevated wine experience.
A report by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) highlights that India is emerging as a prime destination for Taiwanese Investments, with the potential to attract $15 billion in sectors such as electronic components, and electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. It also notes that India’s rapid growth in areas like electronics manufacturing, green energy, EVs, smart cities, and ICT aligns strongly with Taiwan’s expertise and priorities. Platforms such as Taiwan Expo demonstrate Taiwan’s role in strengthening partnerships and supporting India’s growth journey.
Experience the complete Taiwan Excellence showcase on 26th September, featuring the grand product launch session and the record-setting “Give Me Five” activity at Taiwan Expo 2025.
26, Sep 2025
ARAPL Clears Fund Infusion for Subsidiary Humro to Tap Global Robotics Opportunity
Pune, 26 September 2025 – Affordable Robotic & Automation Ltd (ARAPL), (BSE: 541402 | NSE: AFFORDABLE), India’s first listed robotics company, has cleared a fresh round of fund infusion into its subsidiary Humro (formerly ARAPL RaaS), as it looks to scale operations and deepen its presence in overseas markets.
At a board meeting held on 18 September 2025, the company cleared an interest-free loan of Rs 25 crore from promoter and managing director Milind Padole, with a provision to convert the amount into equity or warrants at a later date. The board also approved raising an additional Rs 50–60 crore via a preferential issue, the proceeds of which will be reinvested into Humro and subsequently converted into equity, subject to regulatory approvals.
The move follows an earlier announcement this month of an USD 8–10 million investment plan into Humro, formerly known as ARAPL RaaS, through a mix of promoter contribution, preferential issue and debt. Of this, Padole has committed USD 3 million in his personal capacity by diluting part of his shareholding in ARAPL. The balance is expected to be raised from institutional investors and debt markets.
The fresh capital will be deployed towards capex, order book execution and working capital requirements as Humro looks to scale up its operations. The Pune-based subsidiary has built a strong order pipeline of around Rs 32 crore, expected to start translating into revenues by FY26. It has also secured in-principle technology approvals from global clients in the United States and Europe, a step seen as critical for scaling its export business.
“Humro has built a robust product portfolio and secured validations from leading global clients, which is a significant endorsement for an Indian robotics company operating in such a competitive space,” said Mr. Milind Padole, Chairman and Managing Director, ARAPL.
“Over the past four years, we have steadily invested in R&D, intellectual property, and software-led automation platforms, giving us the confidence to compete with established global players. This fresh round of funding will allow us to accelerate our growth trajectory by scaling production, deepening customer engagements, and investing in our talent base. Importantly, it positions us to strengthen our US presence at a time when supply chain diversification and tariff-led cost dynamics are opening up new opportunities for Indian companies in advanced automation. Our focus will be on leveraging India’s cost advantage while continuing to deliver high-quality, reliable solutions that meet global benchmarks,” added Mr Padole.
Founded in 2005, ARAPL has emerged as a significant player in India’s automation landscape. The company has deployed more than 7,500 robots and 14,000 automated car parking systems, employs over 400 professionals, and operates a 350,000 sq. ft. facility on the outskirts of Pune. Its intellectual property portfolio includes nine patents and three proprietary software platforms.
The capital raising comes at a time when Indian automation firms are benefitting from global supply chain realignments and rising tariffs on Chinese imports into the US. With its mix of cost competitiveness and proprietary technology, ARAPL is seeking to position Humro as a serious contender in the fast-growing robotics-as-a-service (RaaS) and autonomous mobile robotics market, where demand is being driven by warehousing, logistics and advanced manufacturing sectors.
Currently, the global robotics market is dominated by Japanese, European and American majors, Indian players like ARAPL are beginning to carve out a niche by offering affordability and faster deployment cycles. The latest infusion underscores the company’s ambition to tap this opening and emerge as a credible global challenger.
25, Sep 2025
Rise and Fall Basement Banter Turns Explosive: Anaya Bangar Refuses to Play the Victim Card
MUMBAI, India–September 25, 2025: The tower of Rise and Fall is shaking with scandals, shifting loyalties, and fiery confrontations. At the center of it all is Anaya Bangar, who’s making it clear she won’t play the “victim card.”
Down in the basement, Arbaz Patel seems quite excited about living the struggling life, turning the so-called struggle zone into a gossip adda. But today, the real spice came when Arbaz spilled the beans about Kubbra Sait’s off-camera game plan, accusing her of nudging him to target Aarush. When confronted, Kubbra broke down in tears, but Arbaz wasn’t having any of it. His blunt one-liner? “Tower mein koi kisi ke liye khada nahi hoga, even if you stand for them.”
Pointing straight at Anaya, he recalled: “Arey, kal main upar se iske liye bol raha hoon, toh yeh niche se bol rahi hai mujhe kuch bolna hi nahi hai.” Anaya put her foot down, making it clear to Arbaz that she would speak when the time comes — during the elimination. The conversation didn’t end there. When Arbaz pushed her to highlight her struggles for sympathy, Anaya cut him off with a strong statement, “Mujhe woh victim card nahi use karna hai.” No tears, no drama — just unapologetic clarity.
Meanwhile, the house is split in its weekly battle: Arbaz Patel, Bali, Aahana, Anaya, Aarush, and Akriti and Arjun Bijlani are grinding it out as Workers, while Dhanashree Verma, Aaditya Narayan, Aahana Kumra, Kiku Sharda, Nayandeep Rakshit, and Kubbra Sait enjoy their reign as Rulers. But with trust cracking and alliances breaking faster than ever, this masala reality show promises twists that no one sees coming. Catch the chaos, the gossip, and the ultimate game of power on Rise and Fall streaming daily at 12 PM on Amazon MX Player and airing at 10:30 PM on Sony Entertainment Television.
25, Sep 2025
DPS Hinjawadi’s ‘Padhte Raho’ Initiative Spreads the Gift of Knowledge
Pune, 25th September 2025: Delhi Public School, Hinjawadi, is expanding its “Padhte Raho” program, which focuses on nurturing a love for reading. The school established a library and donated over 450 books to the Primary Zilla Parishad School in Nande village.
This is the second successful library set up by DPS Hinjawadi, demonstrating the school’s commitment to fostering learning beyond its own campus. The first successful library was established at the PHC Mangaon health center. The initiative reflects the school’s motto of
“Seva Bhaav,” or “spreading the light of education and compassion”.
The celebration brought students from both schools together for shared reading, lively discussions, and the joy of building new friendships through books. This event highlights the school’s belief in extending resources to the wider community
Delhi Public School Hinjawadi. Pune
Delhi Public School (DPS) Hinjawadi, under the aegis of the Delhi Public School Society, East of Kailash, New Delhi, has a rich legacy of over 75 years. With more than 200 schools worldwide, DPS provides good holistic education. The Hinjawadi branch was opened on June 10, 2024, becoming a new milestone in Pune’s educational landscape.
25, Sep 2025
The Estee Lauder Companies, Nykaa, & Startup India Announce Finalists for BEAUTY&YOU India 2025
India’s most promising beauty entrepreneurs will present their bold, category-defining ideas for a chance to win financial, distribution, and strategic support
NEW YORK, U.S. & MUMBAI, INDIA – September 25, 2025 – The Estée Lauder Companies Inc.’s (NYSE: EL) New Incubation Ventures, with lead partner Nykaa and the support of Startup India, are proud to announce the finalists for BEAUTY&YOU India 2025. Now in its fourth year, the program continues its mission to discover and support the next generation of India-focused entrepreneurs shaping the future of beauty in India.
Under the 2025 theme of Beauty Frontiers, 13 finalists have been selected representing some of the most promising talent and ideas across skin care, makeup, hair care, and fragrance. Blending creativity, technology, cultural insight, and innovation, they reflect the diversity and dynamism of India’s beauty ecosystem, with concepts spanning Ayurvedic science, microbiome innovation, inclusive beauty solutions, sustainability, and novel delivery formats.
Finalists were selected across three award categories: IMAGINE (best pre-launch beauty concepts), GROW (best in-market beauty brands), and BREAKTHROUGH (leading innovations in product, technology, or business model). Finalists will pitch their brands and concepts to an esteemed panel of industry leaders in Mumbai on October 7. Winners will be announced that evening at a special event with leaders across India’s beauty, startup, creative, and innovation ecosystems.
As the program continues to grow each year, women entrepreneurs are the ones leading the charge. Over 80% of this year’s applicants included at least one woman founder. For the first time, BEAUTY&YOU India will debut the Visionary Women’s Award, a new jury prize presented with Startup India, the Government of India’s initiative to strengthen the nation’s innovation ecosystem and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs. Inspired by The Estée Lauder Companies’ legacy as a beauty company founded by a trailblazing woman, the award will recognize the innovation and impact of an outstanding woman entrepreneur, with the winner announced during the final event.
All winners will receive mentorship from global beauty leaders and gain access to a broad network of strategic support. They will also receive financial support from a prize pool of up to $500,000, national visibility through Startup India, as well as brand-building and distribution support through Nykaa’s powerful ecosystem—spanning discovery, consumer insights, digital amplification, omnichannel presence, and access to its extensive network.
The 2025 BEAUTY&YOU India finalists are:
IMAGINE
Best pre-launch beauty concepts
Atypiical – Milli Patel, CEO: ATYPIICAL creates hybrid suncare that blends SPF, skin care, and makeup and is engineered for the modern Indian woman’s climate, skin tone, and beauty routine.
DRENCH – Srishti Kumar, Founder: DRENCH is an ingredient-first luxury body care brand that aims to make body care as effective as skin care, with clinically powered, sensorially indulgent products.
Skiom Pvt. Ltd. – Dr. Gautam Banerjee, Cofounder & CEO and Balaknath Datta, Cofounder & COO: Skiom is an Indian skin care brand that believes microbiome is the foundation of healthy skin, offering science-driven solutions that are tested on Indian skin.
Mimiq – Harsha Soundararajan, Founder: Mimiq is a complexion-focused makeup brand, creating inclusive, high-performance, long-lasting products for people with visible skin differences, such as vitiligo.
Allyv – Surabhi Sundarka, Founder & CEO: Allyv aims to bring the joy back into skin care by offering multi-functional, effective, and highly sensorial products.
GROW
Best in-market beauty brands
Antinorm – Aparna Saxena, Founder & CEO: Antinorm simplifies beauty with high-performance, climate-tailored, and multitasking products that replace multi-step routines.
Dermis Oracle – Ankit Tripathi, Founder & CEO and Kaksha Patel, Cofounder & Head of Product: Dermis Oracle is a pharmaceutical company offering clinically proven solutions to address specific skin concerns through its family of brands, including Seekcaus (suncare) and Anable (hair care).
Justhuman – Roshini Sanah Jaiswal, Founder & CEO and Nitin Chawla, Cofounder & Head of Strategy and Compliance: Justhuman offers neurocosmetics that make people look and feel good by harnessing the skin-brain connection to support both skin health and emotional well-being.
Project Qaafi – Aahan Chatterjee, Founder: Qaafi is a contemporary expression of Indian skin care, blending Ayurveda, botanicals, and science-backed actives with a design-first approach that’s culturally nuanced and crafted for today’s discerning consumer.
BREAKTHROUGH
Leading innovations in product, technology, or business model
Atmiya Innovations Foundation – Dr. Mousumi Das, Founder & Assistant Professor: Dr. Das has created CYALIP, an advanced lipcare product that utilizes stabilization technology to offer vibrant, pH-resistant, and light-stable coloration while preserving the pigment’s bioactive properties.
Cosmos Bio Private Limited – Dr. Bharat Somireddy, Cofounder & CEO and Sowjanya Venkata, Cofounder: Cosmos Bio is an industrial biotech company pioneering sustainable, cruelty-free bioactives for beauty and personal care.
Hitech Formulations – Jaspreet Singh Gulati, Founder & Director: Hitech Formulations created Lipocell™, a breakthrough encapsulation technology that stabilizes retinoids and other unstable actives without solvents—delivering safer, more effective formulations for pigmentation, anti-aging, and antioxidant-driven skin care.
Nanospin Technologies LLP – Naman H. Barot, Founder: Nanospin Technology LLP is changing skin care at the speed of sustainability with a quick-dissolve face sheet mask that delivers deep moisture and glow-boosting ingredients in seconds.
This year’s jury panel is composed of experts across The Estée Lauder Companies (“ELC”) and industry leaders including Akhil Shrivastava (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, ELC), Michelle Freyre (Global Brand President, Clinique and Dermatological Brands, ELC), Sumit Bhasin (Senior Vice President, Global R&D and Innovation for Fragrance, Makeup, and External Partnerships, ELC), Aïda Moudachirou-Rébois (Senior Vice President & Global General Manager, MAC Cosmetics), Rohan Vaziralli (General Manager, The ELC India), Anchit Nayar (Executive Director & CEO, Nykaa Beauty), Nivruti Rai (Head of Invest India), Katrina Kaif (Actor and Co-Founder, Kay Beauty), Gianandrea Ferrari (Chief Commercial Officer, Intercos Group), Dr. Jaishree Sharad (Celebrated Cosmetic Dermatologist, Author, and TEDX Speaker), Aabha Bakaya (Founder & CEO, Ladies Who Lead), and Gaurav Gupta (Couturier, Artist, and Designer).
