13, Jul 2026
Hilton Debuts Lifestyle Portfolio in India with Opening of Slohh by Roach Bengaluru, Curio Collection by Hilton
Shaped by distinctive design, and a strong music ethos, the hotel introduces a new expression of lifestyle hospitality in India, built on the spirit of a Malnad home
BENGALURU, India – July 13— Hilton (NYSE: HLT) today announced the opening of Slohh by Roach in Bengaluru, marking the debut of Curio Collection by Hilton and Hilton’s first lifestyle hotel in India. Located in Whitefield, one of Bengaluru’s key business and technology corridors, the 221-key hotel is developed in partnership with Roach Lifescapes, a Bengaluru-based boutique real estate brand. Slohh by Roach introduces a design-forward, locally rooted experience that blends culture, community, and contemporary living.
Part of Curio Collection, a global portfolio of individually remarkable hotels with one-of-a-kind experiences, Slohh by Roach draws inspiration from the coffee estates and residential heritage of the Malnad region in the Western Ghats. The hotel’s colour palette traces the life cycle of a coffee bean, beginning with soft whites and light browns, deepening into richer chocolate tones, and accented with hints of dusty pinks and rust in spaces that suggest spice and warmth. Natural materials, vernacular pitched roofs, and intricate carved details come together to create intimate, softly lit spaces that evoke nostalgia, and warmth of being welcomed into a home.
(Image on left): Slohh by Roach, Curio Collection by Hilton – Premium Suite Living Area (Image on right): Slohh by Roach, Curio Collection by Hilton – Deluxe King Room
Zubin Saxena, senior vice president and regional head, South Asia, Hilton, said, “Bengaluru continues to be a key market for Hilton in India, shaped by its strong business ecosystem and evolving travel demand. The debut of Curio Collection in South Asia, marking our first lifestyle offering in India, is a significant milestone as we expand our portfolio to meet growing demand for distinctive, experience-led hospitality. The opening of this hotel reflects our ambition to bring globally renowned brands to India in ways that feel deeply relevant to the local market, blending character, authenticity, and the exceptional hospitality that guests expect from Hilton.”
The 221-key hotel unfolds across seven room and suite categories, many with balconies overlooking Varthur lake and the city skyline. Suites, including the expansive Malnad Presidential Suite, offer separate living and dining spaces inspired by Malnad plantation homes.
For weddings and corporate events, the hotel features The Banyan, a pillarless ballroom spanning 5,000 sq. ft. with capacity of up to 600 guests, supported by a 3,000 sq. ft. pre-function area, multiple meeting rooms, and a boardroom, complemented by a beauty salon and dedicated bridal suite. Wellness seekers can indulge in a temperature-controlled outdoor pool, a 24-hour fitness centre, a hammam and full-service spa.
Tal Shefer, senior vice president, Brand Management, Asia Pacific, Hilton, said, “Each Curio Collection property is selected for its individual character and sense of place. As we bring the brand to India, Slohh by Roach reflects our focus on hotels that are shaped by their surroundings through thoughtful design, curated culinary experiences, and locally inspired programming.“
Nana’s, the all-day dining restaurant, presents a menu inspired by family recipes and techniques passed down through generations, regional flavours, and seasonal cooking traditions from Karnataka and the Malnad belt, complemented by a curated selection of comforting dishes from across India, as well as some global classics. An Executive Club Lounge, designed to cater to both residential and non-residential guests, further elevates the hotel’s dining and social experiences.
A strong sense of culture and community runs through the Slohh experience and extends itself to some unique guest offerings, including a Potter-in-Residence studio, to initiatives like Grandma’s Recipe, which brings personal stories and family traditions into the culinary programme. Music plays an integral role in shaping the guest experience at the hotel, with a curated, retro-inspired soundtrack of jazz, rhythm & blues (R&B) and timeless classics flowing through the hotel’s social spaces to create a warm, tranquil ambiance.
Christina Roach, Founder, Roach Lifescapes, said, “With Slohh by Roach, we wanted to create a hotel that feels deeply connected to the way people want to live, making it an experience that guests will remember. The vision has been shaped by our own upbringing and the way we have always experienced hospitality at home, where food was at the heart of every gathering and everyone felt naturally welcome. We wanted to bring that feeling into an urban hotel experience through thoughtful design, food which evokes nostalgia, and service that feels personal, intuitive, and genuinely caring. We are thrilled to partner with Hilton to bring this vision of ours to life through the first Curio Collection hotel in India. The hotel will mirror the spirit of Bengaluru in a way that feels authentic and contemporary, offering guests a stay defined by individuality, creativity and meaningful local connection.”
The hotel is part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s 27 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including flexible points and money payment options, exclusive member discounts and complimentary standard Wi-Fi. Members also enjoy popular digital tools available exclusively through the Hilton Honors mobile app, including digital check-in, room selection and Digital Key.
FAQ
1. What is Slohh by Roach Bengaluru?
Slohh by Roach is a design-forward lifestyle hotel in Bengaluru and the first Curio Collection by Hilton property in India and South Asia. It offers a locally inspired stay rooted in culture, community and contemporary design. It is the first Curio Collection by Hilton hotel in India and South Asia.
2. Where is the hotel located?
The hotel is located in Whitefield, one of Bengaluru’s key business and technology districts, with views overlooking Varthur Lake and the city skyline.
3. What makes this hotel unique?
Slohh by Roach draws inspiration from the Malnad region of Karnataka, combining elements like pitched roofs, natural materials and carved detailing with a strong music-led identity and community-driven experiences.
4. How many rooms and suites does the hotel have?
The hotel features 221 rooms and suites across seven categories, many with private, furnished balconies and views of the lake or city.
5. What dining options are available?
Guests can dine at Nana’s, the all-day restaurant serving regional and seasonal cuisine inspired by Karnataka and Malnad traditions, complemented by a curated selection of comforting dishes from across India, as well as some global classics.
6. What facilities does the hotel offer?
The hotel offers a ballroom and event spaces, wellness facilities including a pool, fitness centre and spa, and curated cultural experiences for guests.
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- By Neel Achary
13, Jul 2026
Auto Sector Accelerates Growth as Q2 Deals Reach Dollar 717 Million
New Delhi, July 13: India’s automotive sector witnessed significant investment activity in the second quarter, recording deals worth $717 million, according to a recent report, highlighting continued investor interest and confidence in the industry’s growth potential.
The strong deal activity reflects the sector’s ongoing transformation, driven by advancements in electric mobility, technology adoption, supply chain development, and evolving consumer demand. Automakers and related businesses are increasingly focusing on innovation and future-ready solutions to strengthen their market position.
Investment momentum has been supported by opportunities across various segments, including electric vehicles, automotive components, mobility solutions, and emerging technologies. The growing participation of investors underscores the importance of India’s automotive market in the global mobility ecosystem.
Industry experts believe that continued capital inflows will support expansion, technological advancements, and the development of a more competitive and sustainable automotive industry.
The latest investment trends reinforce India’s position as a key destination for automotive growth, with the sector playing an important role in driving manufacturing, innovation, and economic development.
13, Jul 2026
AI Asymmetry Emerges as a Key Risk for Financial Institutions, Experts Warn
New Delhi, July 13: Experts have identified AI asymmetry as one of the emerging risks facing financial institutions, highlighting the need for stronger governance, responsible technology adoption, and enhanced risk management frameworks.
As financial organisations increasingly integrate artificial intelligence into operations, concerns are growing over the unequal access to advanced AI capabilities, potential misuse of technology, and challenges related to transparency and decision-making.
Industry specialists noted that while AI offers significant opportunities in areas such as fraud detection, customer service, risk assessment, and operational efficiency, institutions must also address associated risks including data security, model reliability, and regulatory compliance.
The rapid evolution of AI technologies has made it essential for financial institutions to strengthen their digital infrastructure and develop robust oversight mechanisms. Experts emphasised the importance of responsible AI practices to ensure that technological advancements support financial stability and consumer trust.
Financial institutions are expected to focus on improving AI governance, enhancing employee capabilities, and adopting secure frameworks to manage emerging challenges while leveraging the benefits of artificial intelligence.
The growing discussion around AI asymmetry reflects the broader need for the financial sector to balance innovation with security, transparency, and responsible technology management.
13, Jul 2026
Rajasthan Boosts DISCOM Reforms and Renewable Energy Push
Jaipur, July 13: Rajasthan is taking significant steps to build a stronger and more sustainable power sector by improving the financial health of electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs) and accelerating the adoption of renewable energy solutions.
The state is focusing on enhancing the operational efficiency and financial stability of DISCOMs through improved management practices, better resource utilisation, and measures aimed at creating a more reliable electricity distribution network.
At the same time, Rajasthan is expanding its renewable energy footprint by leveraging its strong potential in solar and wind power. The push towards clean energy is aimed at meeting growing electricity demand while supporting environmental sustainability and reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.
The state’s initiatives are expected to strengthen energy security, improve power supply reliability, and support long-term economic growth. Modernising power infrastructure and promoting clean energy development remain key priorities as Rajasthan works towards building a resilient and future-ready energy ecosystem.
The combined focus on DISCOM reforms and renewable energy expansion reflects Rajasthan’s commitment to creating a balanced power sector that supports consumers, industries, and sustainable development goals.
13, Jul 2026
Rosmerta Technologies Joins ACMA–Maruti Suzuki Supplier Development Conference as Platinum Sponsor
Gurugram, July 13: Rosmerta Technologies Limited participated as the Platinum Sponsor at the ACMA–Maruti Suzuki Supplier Development Conference, held on July 10, 2026, at Crowne Plaza, Gurugram. The conference brought together Maruti Suzuki India, their component suppliers and technology partners to deliberate on the OEM’s expectations vis-à-vis challenges faced by Tier-1 and Tier-2 suppliers with special focus on Quality, Scalability and Safety. Various use cases were also presented by various suppliers on their experience overcoming such challenges through innovation, collaboration and supply chain excellence.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Karn Nagpal, President, Rosmerta Technologies Limited, said,
“The ACMA–Maruti Suzuki Supplier Development Conference provided an excellent platform to engage with key stakeholders from across India’s automotive value chain and exchange experience on challenges faced and solutions arrived. At Rosmerta Technologies, we remain committed to developing technology-driven solutions that strengthen regulatory compliance, enhance road safety and improve operational efficiency across the automotive ecosystem. Our participation as the Platinum Sponsor reflects our continued focus on fostering industry collaboration and supporting India’s journey towards a smarter, safer and more digitally connected mobility landscape.”
Rosmerta also presented the challenges faced in maintaining the quality of service in its connected car products and solutions arrived through “Atmanirbhar” technological intervention and necessary contribution at the policy level. The company’s participation reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the industry’s transformation through scalable, secure and technology-driven solutions that address the evolving needs of India’s mobility and automotive sector.
13, Jul 2026
AI Becomes a Major Factor in Smartphone Buying Decisions, Consumer Preferences Shift
New Delhi, July 13: Artificial intelligence (AI) features are increasingly influencing smartphone purchase decisions, with 68% of consumers considering AI capabilities an important factor when selecting their devices, according to a recent study.
The trend reflects changing consumer expectations, as users now look for smartphones that offer smarter and more personalised experiences beyond conventional features such as camera performance, battery life, and processing power.
AI-driven tools, including enhanced photography features, intelligent assistants, productivity solutions, and personalised recommendations, are gaining popularity as consumers seek devices that can better support their daily needs.
The growing preference for AI-enabled smartphones highlights the rapid evolution of the mobile technology landscape, with manufacturers investing in advanced innovations to deliver more intuitive and efficient user experiences.
Industry observers expect AI integration to remain a key growth driver in the smartphone market as consumers continue to embrace smarter, connected devices.
13, Jul 2026
AI Emerges as a Key Buying Factor for Smartphone Consumers
New Delhi, July 13: Artificial intelligence (AI) features are increasingly influencing smartphone purchase decisions, with 68% of consumers considering AI capabilities an important factor when selecting their devices, according to a recent study.
The trend reflects changing consumer expectations, as users now look for smartphones that offer smarter and more personalised experiences beyond conventional features such as camera performance, battery life, and processing power.
AI-driven tools, including enhanced photography features, intelligent assistants, productivity solutions, and personalised recommendations, are gaining popularity as consumers seek devices that can better support their daily needs.
The growing preference for AI-enabled smartphones highlights the rapid evolution of the mobile technology landscape, with manufacturers investing in advanced innovations to deliver more intuitive and efficient user experiences.
Industry observers expect AI integration to remain a key growth driver in the smartphone market as consumers continue to embrace smarter, connected devices.
13, Jul 2026
Delhi Launches Major Plantation Drive to Expand Green Cover; CM Urges Citizens to Join Effort
New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta participated in the city’s ambitious 70 lakh tree plantation campaign, calling on residents to actively support efforts aimed at increasing green cover and creating a healthier environment.
The large-scale initiative focuses on promoting urban greenery, improving environmental sustainability, and encouraging community participation in plantation activities across the national capital. Government departments, civic bodies, and citizens are joining hands to strengthen Delhi’s green infrastructure through widespread tree planting.
Highlighting the importance of collective action, the Chief Minister urged people to not only plant trees but also take responsibility for their care and maintenance to ensure long-term environmental benefits.
The plantation campaign is expected to contribute towards improving air quality, enhancing biodiversity, and creating more sustainable urban spaces. Authorities are identifying suitable locations for plantation while focusing on the survival and growth of newly planted trees.
The initiative reflects Delhi’s continued efforts to address environmental challenges and build a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable city for future generations.
13, Jul 2026
Raichur Revamps 48 Anganwadi Centres, Enhancing Facilities for 4,200 Children
Raichur, July 13: The District Administration of Raichur in collaboration with, GE HealthCare and United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), mark ten years of driving meaningful change in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) through the Born Learning Campaign (BLC), a flagship initiative of UWBe that has strengthened Anganwadi ecosystems and improved early learning outcomes across Karnataka.
Implemented in Raichur, one of Karnataka’s aspirational districts, the campaign has worked to transform Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) into vibrant, child-friendly spaces that support holistic development during the most critical years of a child’s life. Around 48 Anganwadi centers in Raichur have been refurbished, benefiting around 4200 children (0-6 years). The partnership has also extended to Bengaluru’s Whitefield, KR Puram, and Kadugodi to support early childhood care.
The success of the initiative in Raichur has been driven by the strong partnership between
GE HealthCare, United Way Bengaluru, the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, district and block-level departments, Anganwadi workers, local stakeholders, and communities. The partnership has focused on improving Anganwadi infrastructure, enhancing access to age-appropriate learning materials, strengthening the capacities of Anganwadi workers, and engaging parents and communities in early childhood development. The campaign aligns closely with the Government of India’s vision for Saksham Anganwadi and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which recognizes the importance of universal access to quality early childhood education.
Over the past decade, the partnership has demonstrated measurable improvements in children’s cognitive, language, social-emotional, and physical development, along with increased attendance and participation across supported centers. Through sustained collaboration with Anganwadi workers, the program has contributed to creating nurturing environments where young children can learn, play, and thrive.
“Investing in early childhood is investing in the future of our district. The Born Learning Campaign has not only improved Anganwadi infrastructure and learning environments but has also strengthened community participation and institutional capacity. We appreciate the sustained commitment of GE HealthCare and United Way Bengaluru in strengthening Anganwadi centers and supporting early childhood development in Raichur. These efforts are helping create a strong foundation for our children and contributing to the district’s long-term development” said Smt. Poovitha S., IAS, Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate, Raichur.
“For over ten years, our partnership with GE HealthCare has demonstrated the power of investing early in a child’s development. Together, we have strengthened Anganwadi Centres as community hubs that nurture learning, health, nutrition, and well-being. Long before ECCE became a national priority under NEP 2020, this partnership recognized the importance of the early years and invested in creating sustainable systems that support children, caregivers, and communities. We are proud of the impact achieved and remain committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive,” – Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru.
As the partnership enters its next decade, GE HealthCare and United Way Bengaluru remain committed to strengthening early childhood ecosystems and creating enabling environments where every child can learn, grow, and reach their full potential.
13, Jul 2026
IIMBue 2026 to Convene India’s Top Business Minds to ‘Change the Orbit’ of Leadership
Noel Naval Tata, Siddharth Sharma, G.V. Prasad, to address IIMBue 2026 Leadership Conclave
Bengaluru, July 13: As businesses confront unprecedented disruption driven by artificial intelligence, shifting geopolitics and rapidly evolving markets, IIMBue 2026 is set to bring together some of the country’s most influential minds to explore one compelling question: How do leaders change their orbit and that of the companies they run, instead of simply staying on course?
The 2026 edition will feature an impressive line-up of speakers, including Mr. Noel Naval Tata, Chairman, Tata Trusts, Mr. Siddharth Sharma, CEO, Tata Trusts; Mr. G.V. Prasad, Co-Chairman & Managing Director, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories; Mr. Anand Ramamoorthy, Founding Managing Director, Micron India; renowned diplomat Ambassador Deepak Vohra; acclaimed actors Mr. Boman Irani & Ms. Bhumi Pednekar, alongside several other distinguished leaders from industry, public policy and academia.
Organised by the IIM Bangalore Alumni Association (IIMBAA), the two-day leadership conclave will be held on August 1–2, 2026, at The Leela Bhartiya City, Bengaluru. Built around the theme “Changing the Orbit,” the event will bring together more than 1,500 delegates and an influential mix of innovators, policymakers, entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors, academicians and alumni from across the world to explore new pathways for growth, leadership and transformation.
Unlike conventional leadership conferences that focus on managing change, “Changing the Orbit” challenges leaders to rethink their trajectory altogether—to break free from incremental progress, embrace bold thinking and move to a higher orbit of innovation, impact and sustainable growth.
Recognised as one of India’s largest alumni-led leadership platforms, IIMBue has become a vibrant forum where leaders from business, government, healthcare, technology, finance, media, sports and the creative industries come together to exchange ideas that influence the future of enterprise and society.
This year’s programme will revolve around three defining themes:
- New Geometry of Power – Understanding the shifting global economic and geopolitical landscape.
- Redesigning Trajectory – How organisations can reinvent themselves to remain resilient and competitive.
- Tech for Future Orbits – Exploring how artificial intelligence, deep technology and digital innovation are reshaping industries and leadership.
The conclave will feature keynote addresses, fireside conversations, interactive panel discussions and networking sessions covering some of today’s most pressing issues, including:
- From Influence to Impact: Shaping Society for Tomorrow
- From Molecules to Markets: Scaling Healthcare Across Borders
- The Gravity Shift: Leadership in a Multipolar World
- Frontier Technologies Reshaping India’s Future
- Rewiring the System in the Era of AI
- Beyond the Screen: Stories, Stardom & the Art of Reinvention
- The New Architecture of Growth
- Beyond the Scoreboard: Sport’s Next Growth Orbit
Speaking about the event, Harish Mittal, President, IIM Bangalore Alumni Association, said: “The pace of change today demands leaders who are willing to rethink assumptions, challenge established models and create entirely new growth trajectories. IIMBue 2026 is designed to inspire exactly those conversations. With leaders from boardrooms, venture capital, private equity, entrepreneurship, academia and public policy coming together, the conclave offers a unique opportunity to understand emerging trends, identify new opportunities and shape the future of leadership.”
Adding to the experience, Venture Showcase will connect promising startups with investors, mentors and strategic partners, while the IIMB Alumni Authors’ Nook will showcase thought-provoking books written by alumni, creating opportunities for conversations beyond the conference stage.
Over the years, IIMBue has evolved into a sought-after platform for cross-sector dialogue, bringing together distinguished personalities from business, public policy, healthcare, sports, science and the arts. The 2026 edition promises to continue that tradition by creating conversations that are not just about responding to change—but about redefining the future.
As the world searches for new models of leadership, innovation and growth, IIMBue 2026 aims to provide the ideas, insights and connections that can help leaders move beyond today’s challenges—and into their next orbit.
