Author: Rabindra

Veranda Learning elevates Aditya Malik to Group Chief Operating Officer

CHENNAI, 16th SEPTEMBER 2024: Veranda Learning Solutions, a listed enterprise offering end-to-end solutions in the education space, is pleased to announce the elevation of Mr. Aditya Malik to the role of Group Chief Operating Officer (COO). Mr. Malik, who currently serves as CEO of Veranda HigherEd, has been instrumental in driving the growth and success of Veranda’s higher education initiatives. His new role aligns with the company’s broader vision of scaling its operations and positioning itself as a leader in the education space.

Commenting on the elevation, Mr. Suresh Kalpathi, Executive Director and Chairman of Veranda Learning Solutions, said, “Aditya has been a key force in our journey towards excellence, particularly in the higher education segment. His strategic insights and leadership have been pivotal in shaping the future of Veranda HigherEd. His promotion to Group COO is not just a recognition of his contributions, but also a crucial step in realizing our broader vision for Veranda’s sustainable yet rapid growth.”

As part of Veranda’s long-term strategic vision, Aditya Malik’s elevation reflects the company’s commitment to fostering growth, driving synergies across its business units, and creating a sustainable roadmap for future success. His leadership will be integral in ensuring that Veranda continues to expand its offerings while maintaining its focus on innovation, operational excellence, and profitability.

Mr. Vivek Sapre, Chief Human Resources Officer, also shared his thoughts on this significant appointment, “Aditya’s elevation underscores our focus on developing internal talent and supporting our employees’ growth. We believe Aditya would bring his vast experience in bringing process-oriented solutions to our broad offerings.”

Expressing his commitment to Veranda, Mr. Aditya Malik said, “I am deeply honored by the trust and confidence that the management has placed in me. Leading Veranda HigherEd has been a rewarding experience, and I look forward to contributing to the broader goals of Veranda Learning Solutions as Group COO. I am excited to continue our journey of innovation and excellence working with our talented team.”

Before joining Veranda, Mr. Aditya Malik was the founder of Talentedge and served as a Senior Partner at Lumis Partners, a private equity fund. He has also held senior leadership roles at Bank of America, GE Consumer Finance, and GECIS, bringing with him a wealth of experience in business operations, strategy, and leadership.

Immersive Super Reality Dome Theatre at Orion Mall at Brigade Gateway

Bengaluru, 16 September 2024 – Orion Mall, in partnership with Epic Quest Entertainment Pvt Ltd, has announced the installation of an innovative 360 Degree Super Immersive Dome Theatre at Orion Mall at Brigade Gateway. This state-of-the-art theatre will offer visitors an unparalleled cinematic experience. The 8-meter dome, spanning 1000 square feet across a 30×30-foot outdoor space and standing at 16.5 feet tall, boasts a world-class projection and speaker system for unparalleled visual and auditory experiences. With a capacity of up to 15 people per session, the theatre will screen a variety of captivating films, including classic titles like Aladdin – The Bachelor Party, Moby Dick – Friends to the Rescue, and Aztec- Historical Survival. Each show will have a duration of approximately 10 minutes, and the theatre will be open from 11 AM to 9 PM.

“Orion Malls has always brought innovative experiences for our patrons through pioneering entertainment options and this initiative is bound to resonate with our visitors and we are positive that they will take home a captivating sensory experience. We believe that shopping should be more than just transactions; it should be an opportunity for families to relax and create lasting memories. The Super Reality Dome Theatre, will cater to all age groups, from fantasy and adventure to action, kids’ cartoons, and beyond.” said Sunil Munshi, Senior Vice President Retail, Brigade Group

“We’re thrilled to bring our 360 Degree Super Immersive Dome Theatre to the vibrant Orion Mall. This unique space will not only elevate the entertainment landscape in Bengaluru but also create a captivating ambience that attracts footfall and adds a new dimension to the shopping experience. We are confident that this innovative theatre will captivate patrons at the mall and redefine their expectations of entertainment.” said Rakesh Anjanappa, Director, Epic Quest Entertainment Pvt Ltd

Tickets for the Super Reality Dome Theatre range from Rs 200 on weekdays and Rs 300 on weekends and will be available at the mall.

Kolkata to Witness B Praak’s Mesmerizing Performance at ‘Kolkata Odyssey’ on October 20th

Kolkata, 16th September, 2024: The vibrant city of Kolkata is set to host an extraordinary musical event as renowned Indian music composer and singer B Praak takes the stage for a spectacular live concert, “Kolkata Odyssey,” on 20th October at Big Lawn Nicco Park, Kolkata. This grand event promises to deliver more than just a concert; it aims to offer a transformative musical journey into the next dimension of live performances.

Kolkata Odyssey is not merely an event but a grand festival dedicated to celebrating Kolkata’s rich cultural and musical heritage. Attendees can anticipate a mesmerizing fusion of breathtaking visuals and immersive soundscapes designed to elevate their concert experience. The festival is crafted to honor the vibrant spirit of Kolkata, offering an unforgettable night of music and celebration.

B Praak, a leading figure in the Indian music industry known for his distinctive voice and emotionally charged compositions, will take center stage. His recent work from the movie Animal, particularly the soul-stirring track Saari Duniya Jala Denge, has become a fan favorite. Alongside this latest sensation, B Praak will perform his chart-topping hits such as Teri Mitti, Zohrajabeen and Filhaal, which have deeply resonated with audiences. This performance will elevate his iconic songs to new heights, creating an emotionally powerful experience for all.

On this Occasion, Pranav Jaiswal, Organiser & MD of Bivita Events & Co. said, “We are thrilled to bring B Praak’s extraordinary talent to Kolkata with Kolkata Odyssey. This concert will transcend the traditional live music experience, offering a mesmerizing blend of stunning visuals and immersive sound. Join us for a night that promises to be unforgettable as we embark on this unique musical journey together. Our primary goal with Kolkata Odyssey is to provide a dedicated festival that celebrates and highlights the vibrant spirit of Kolkata.”

LIC appoints Infosys to build its NextGen Digital Platform

Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has undertaken a digital transformation programme named DIVE (Digital Innovation and Value Enhancement). Under DIVE, LIC aims to significantly boost its digital platform with an aim to provide superior experience to its customers, field force, partners and employees.

LIC has appointed Infosys to build its new state-of-art NextGen Digital Platform which will be an integrated end-to-end digital insurance solution to provide excellent Services to its customers, Business lifecycle management and operational activities for sales intermediaries and digital front-end platform for branch employees.

The NextGen Digital Platform will be modular, flexible, cloud-native, and have platform driven architecture which will be capable of quickly adopting innovative technologies, new products and features. This platform will form the foundation for building high value business applications such as the Customer & Sales Super Apps, Portals and Digital Branch for LIC.

Shri Siddhartha Mohanty, CEO & MD, LIC, said, “Our vision is to transform LIC into a technology enabled organisation providing life insurance solutions. We look forward to our partnership with Infosys in creating world class digital solutions and providing best-in-class experience for all our stakeholders including customers and sales intermediaries.”

Highlighting on the need for digital transformation, CEO & MD of LIC, Mr.Mohanty said, “Today we are living in a digitally connected era where customers expect their needs to be met instantly whether during on-boarding or post sales service. Technology can help us generate greater insights about our customers and by leveraging India’s advanced digital eco-system to help us serve better”.

Dive into the spirit of adventure with the VegNonVeg’s Overdyed Collection

Celebrating the thrill of exploration and the joy of discovery, VegNonVeg launches its brand-new Overdyed collection. This unique line captures the essence of summer’s untamed beauty, designed for the modern adventurer who seeks both style and functionality. Each piece in this collection is meticulously crafted to reflect the daring and dynamic nature of those who dare to venture beyond the ordinary.

From sun-washed sands and wind-swept mountains to lush rainforests and expansive big sky vistas, the Overdyed Collection captures the essence of these remarkable terrains. Each piece features a distinct overdyed finish, reflecting the rich palette of the Indian landscape. The collection’s experimental silhouettes are crafted with a focus on flowy, effortless design, offering a blend of style and comfort.

At the heart of the collection is the use of ripstop fabric. Known for its durability, ripstop ensures that these garments can withstand the rigors of any adventure without compromising on comfort or style. The fabric’s resilience makes these pieces perfect for transitioning seamlessly across seasons and settings.

Experience the perfect blend of style, comfort, and durability, and make every moment an adventure. Discover the Overdyed Collection at VegNonVeg and redefine your wardrobe.

The countdown ends! Call Me Bae’s ‘Yaara Tere Bin’ music video is here to steal hearts

National, 16th September 2024: The massive success of Call Me Bae, starring Ananya Panday, has taken over social media, with fans raving about the series and especially the soulful track “Yaara Tere Bin.” After an overwhelming demand for the music video, the wait is finally over as the much-anticipated visuals for the song have been dropped. With its deep emotion and unplugged beauty, the track hooked everyone, and the visuals now bring to life the raw emotions that fans eagerly awaited!

Composed and sung by the talented trio of RUUH, JOH, and Lisa Mishra, with poetic lyrics crafted by RUUH and Smriti Bhoker, “Yaara Tere Bin” is an acoustic ballad that captures the intense void left by a lost love. The lyrics echo the emptiness that comes from the absence of a beloved, while its evocative visuals and soulful melody pull at the heartstrings.

Lisa Mishra, who brings her signature soulful touch to the track, adds, “When I first sang ‘Yaara Tere Bin,’ it felt like my voice was carrying the weight of every unspoken emotion I’ve ever felt. I think we all have those memories of people who leave an imprint on our hearts. The song taps into that universal experience of missing someone and those emotions while letting them flow through the music. I am glad the music video is finally out now on popular demand and I hope fans will love it.”

RUUH, who not only composed but also lent his voice to the song, reflects on his connection to the song’s emotional depth, “I feel overwhelmed with the response and love that we are receiving for this track. This track is close to my heart as we’ve all experienced this kind of love that stays with you even when it’s gone. ‘Yaara Tere Bin’ is like a conversation with those memories that you can’t quite shake and I wanted the music to mirror that feeling, simple, bare, but powerful. I hope it resonates with anyone who’s experienced that aching emptiness.”

“To see how Yaara Tere Bin has connected to the listeners is a dream come true. Creating the track was a deeply personal journey. This song was meant to capture those quiet, intense moments of love and loss, and I’m beyond thrilled that it’s resonated so deeply. YI hope the music video adds another dimension to the story we’re telling”, adds composer JOH

Lyricist Smriti Bhoker shares, “‘Yaara Tere Bin’ is a reflection of my own emotional journey. The overwhelming response to the song has been incredibly touching, and it’s truly amazing to see how the audience has connected to the emotions behind the words.”

Dive into the captivating video of “Yaara Tere Bin” from Call Me Bae and immerse yourself in its heartfelt expression of love and loss. Whether you’re reliving your own moments of longing or simply enjoying a beautifully crafted piece of music, this is a must-watch!!

Call Me Bae is a Dharmatic Entertainment production, with Karan Johar, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra as executive producers. The series is created by Ishita Moitra, who has co-written it alongside Samina Motlekar, and Rohit Nair. Directed by Collin D’Cunha, Call me Bae is the story of Bae, who upon being downsized from heiress to hustler, discovers that her most valuable assets aren’t her diamonds, but her street smarts and style. Broke but refusing to be broken, she navigates the newsrooms of Mumbai, finding beaus, behens, and her better self. This 8-part series stars Ananya Panday in the lead role, and features an ensemble cast including Vir Das, Gurfateh Pirzada, Varun Sood, Vihaan Samat, Muskkaan Jaferi, Niharika Lyra Dutt, Lisa Mishra, and Mini Mathur. The series premiered exclusively on Prime Video on Sept 6 in India and 240 countries and territories worldwide.

Kosmoderma Clinic Debuts LPG Endermologie Cellu M6 Alliance in India: New Era in Body & Face Toning

Bengaluru, India – 16 September 2024, Sunday– Kosmoderma Clinic, a leader in advanced dermatology and aesthetic solutions, proudly announces the launch of the LPG Endermologie Cellu M6 Alliance in its Bengaluru branch. This cutting-edge technology offers non-invasive solutions for body contouring and facial skin rejuvenation, targeting stubborn fat, cellulite, and skin laxity. With its patented technology, LPG Endermologie stimulates natural collagen production, enhances skin firmness, and improves circulation, providing clients with visible and long-lasting results.

 Dr. Chytra Anand, founder & CEO of Kosmoderma Skin, Hair & Body Clinics, stated, “We are thrilled to introduce LPG Endermologie in India for the first time. This collaboration allows us to offer a game-changing solution for body toning, facial contouring, and post-workout healing. Our clients now have access to the same technology that celebrities worldwide use to achieve cellulite reduction, skin tightening, and a sculpted, youthful appearance. This technology allows us to deliver exceptional, visible results with no downtime, elevating the standards of aesthetic care in the country.”

 Tanuushka K Lal, Chief Operating Officer of Kosmoderma says, “We are proud to unveil and welcome LPG Endermologie to India, marking a significant milestone in our mission to offer the most advanced aesthetic treatments. This launch aligns with our business strategy to continually introduce state-of-the-art technologies that meet the growing demand for non-invasive, effective body and facial contouring solutions. By integrating LPG Endermologie into our offerings, we not only enhance our service portfolio but also reinforce Kosmoderma’s position as a leader in the aesthetic dermatology market.”

 “With Kosmoderma Healthcare as our partner, we are happy to launch LPG in India. Kosmoderma’s reputation for excellence in aesthetic medicine and their commitment to innovative, result-driven treatments align perfectly with LPG’s mission. Together, we aim to bring cutting-edge body contouring and skin health solutions to a wider audience in India, setting new benchmarks in beauty and wellness.” – Jeremy Chauver, Business Head of LPG.

 “Bringing this [LPG Endermologie] revolutionary technology to a growing market that values innovation and quality gives us immense pride. We congratulate Kosmoderma on their introduction of LPG’s advanced solutions for skin and body wellness that will set new standards in the Indian aesthetic industry.”– Alphonse Raja, Business Associate, LPG Endermologie, India.

 Endermologie is a top beauty favourite of fitness enthusiasts, athletes and Hollywood Celebrities. Stars like Gwyneth Paltrow and Victoria Beckham, swear by LPG Endermologie for its ability to aid muscle recovery, reduce soreness, and improve circulation after intense workouts. Jennifer Lopez is known to have used Endermologie treatments as part of her beauty regimen. She has incorporated this non-invasive treatment to help reduce cellulite and contouring the body, which aligns with her focus on maintaining a toned and youthful appearance. Endermologie is widely recognised for its effectiveness in promoting skin health and body contouring among celebrities.

 LPG Endermologie is a globally renowned technology that effectively targets stubborn fat, cellulite, and skin laxity, promoting natural collagen production and delivering visible, long-lasting results. Kosmoderma’s introduction of LPG Endermologie is set to transform the aesthetic and wellness landscape in India. For the face, this provides deep detoxification and hydration, revitalising the skin for a youthful glow. For the body, this targets stubborn fat, reduces cellulite, tones the body, and promotes detoxification, stimulating natural collagen production for firmer skin and improved circulation. It is also widely beneficial for fitness enthusiasts and athletes as it stimulates blood circulation, aids in muscle relaxation and helps to treat unwanted fat.

 Kosmoderma Skin, Hair & Body Clinics are renowned for offering world-class treatments and procedures, led by a team of expert dermatologists and cosmetologists. The introduction of the LPG Endermologie Cellu M6 Alliance further strengthens their commitment to providing the latest and most effective treatments in the field of aesthetic dermatology.

World Heart Day: How avocados can help you keep your heart healthy

Two servings of avocado per week can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD)
Several recent studies have demonstrated how avocados can help contribute to a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle. A 2022 study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, finds that those who ate at least two servings of avocado a week had a lower risk of CVD compared to people who rarely ate avocados. The study was carried out over a 30-year period, involving over 110,000 participants, and the authors concluded that replacing certain fat‐containing foods with avocado could lead to a lower risk of CVD.

Backing up these findings, another study published in the same journal has found that eating one avocado a day for six months could slightly lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. “There is a growing body of research which supports the idea that the inclusion of avocados in the diet can positively benefit your health. Avocados are low in sugar and salt, but high in a number of important nutrients for cardiovascular health including monounsaturated fats, plant sterols, potassium and fibre” says study co-author Dr Joan Sabaté MD, DrPH, Professor of Nutrition and Epidemiology at Loma Linda University School of Public Health.

Besides these two recent clinical trials, over the few years, other studies have demonstrated that avocado consumption can be associated with improved overall diet quality, nutrient intake, and reduced risk of metabolic syndrome (the medical term for a number of conditions that increase the risk of CVD and stroke).

How avocados can contribute to heart health:
Avocados are packed with vitamins, minerals and other nutrients, but what makes the fruit unique is the high quantity of healthy monounsaturated fats they contain (approximately 6.65 grams in half an avocado). Monounsaturated fats, like those found in avocados, can help reduce LDL cholesterol levels in the body while foods high in saturated fats, such as cheese and butter, can have the opposite effect.

According to data from the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), there are more than 6 million new cases of CVD in the EU every year with almost 49 million people living with the disease in total. Across ESC member countries, about one in seven people are living with high cholesterol levels (hypercholesterolaemia).

As well as monounsaturated fat, avocados are rich in other nutrients that can support heart health. These include potassium, which helps the body maintain a healthy blood pressure, and dietary fibre which can also play a beneficial role in lowering the risk of high blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol levels and CVD.

Swapping saturated fats for unsaturated fats can help improve heart health
Everyone needs some fat in their diet but experts recommend switching out saturated fat for smaller amounts of unsaturated fats. With this in mind, topping toast with a portion of avocado rather than butter, cheese or chocolate spread, could be a great way to incorporate more healthy fats into your daily routine.

Avocados are a fabulous heart-friendly fruit. They are loaded with health-promoting MUFA (Monounsaturated fatty acids) that are great for our heart, potassium, a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure, and even the elusive folate, which again is a wonderful heart health nutrient, by Ms. Kavita Devgan a leading Dietitian, holistic health consultant and an eminent writer.

Sampark Bharti emphasises on social development programmes at Sanatani Professionals Conclave held at Sonipat

Sampark Bharti, a global organization uniting the Sanatani Professional Diaspora from over 50 countries, successfully hosted the second Sanatani Professionals Conclave (SPC) Haryana 2024 at Hotel SK Park Blue, Sonipat. The conclave underscored Sampark Bharti’s unwavering commitment to social upliftment, community empowerment, and nurturing leadership among the next generation of Sanatanis, with a focus on fostering economic growth through MSMEs and startups.

With the theme “MSME / Startup,” the conclave highlighted the enormous potential of Sonipat as an emerging hub for small and medium enterprises and entrepreneurial ventures. Leaders from various industries, entrepreneurs, and professionals gathered to discuss opportunities, challenges, and actionable strategies that would not only boost local economies but also contribute to national progress.

A significant highlight of the event was the launch of the Bharat Knowledge Centre (BKC) in Sonipat—an ambitious initiative by Sampark Bharti. The BKC aims to empower the community with access to career development, entrepreneurial support, and social welfare programmes. By offering valuable resources, mentorship, and industry insights, the Bharat Knowledge Centre will be instrumental in helping aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals chart a course toward success. This centre embodies Sampark Bharti’s core mission of fostering meaningful, long-lasting change in society by empowering individuals.

The event saw the participation of esteemed dignitaries, including Chief Guest Prof. (Dr.) Archana Mishra, whose address inspired the audience. His Holiness Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni, a respected social reformer, and Mahant Balaknath Yogi were alsopresent as guests of honour. Their presence and perspectives enriched the discussions, reinforcing Sampark Bharti’s dedication to community-driven professional growth.

Key sessions such as “Sanatani Chamber of Commerce: Driving National Growth with Business Initiatives” and “Bharat Knowledge Centre: Strategic Role in Building India’s Future” emphasized Sampark Bharti’s nationalist approach to economic development. These sessions illustrated the organization’s focus on driving innovation, nurturing talent, and building a robust future for the nation through the collective efforts of Sanatani professionals.

Dr. Col. Tej Tikoo, a founding member of Sampark Bharti, articulated the organization’s vision, stating, “Sampark Bharti draws upon our rich Sanatani values to support our youth and contribute to the overall growth of our nation. By nurturing talent and entrepreneurial spirit, we can enact real social change. The Bharat Knowledge Centre is a key initiative to offer resources that will propel young professionals forward, helping them succeed while contributing to India’s prosperity.”

At its core, the conclave was a powerful demonstration of Sampark Bharti’s dedication to social change through collaborative efforts. By facilitating partnerships between voluntary and charitable organizations, the conclave amplified the need for community-driven development and laid the groundwork for continued success in future initiatives. Thought leaders from various sectors came together to explore how the Sanatani community can actively contribute to nation-building while ensuring social equity and professional growth.

Following the success of previous conclaves in Gurugram and Sonipat, Sampark Bharti will continue its SPC Haryana initiative with upcoming conferences in Rohtak, Hisar, Ambala, and Kurukshetra. These events will further strengthen Sampark Bharti’s mission to build a robust, collaborative network of Sanatani professionals dedicated to uplifting society and driving national growth.

This conclave is yet another testament to Sampark Bharti’s impactful role in shaping a prosperous future for India through concerted, community-driven efforts.

HID Signo Readers Line Expands to Further Meet Physical Access Control Needs

Bengaluru, September 16, 2024 – HID, a worldwide leader in trusted identity solutions, announces the expansion of its signature line of Signo™ Readers to include models that meet varying customer needs – from harsh conditions and stylistic preferences to streamlined, economical requirements.

The latest Signo models include:

● Signo Readers available in white – provide a very clean, minimalist, and modern look, offering architects, designers, and anyone looking to blend their access control readers into new environments with a bright and neutral aesthetic.

● Signo Mechanical Keypad Readers – provide a high-performance, reliable option for harsh environments, ideal for use cases where cold and wet weather conditions require gloved hands or when users may have low visibility. They also provide an option when there is a preference or specification for a traditional mechanical device.

● Signo Express – distills the essential capabilities from the Signo line to deliver a simplified and cost-effective solution for secure physical access control.

“Signo Readers are designed with versatility in mind to satisfy the increasing demand for customisation,” says Cristian Cotiga, VP of Product Management for Physical Access Control Systems at HID. “These latest models provide customers even more ways to meet their unique and evolving security needs.”

Helping Organisations Meet Dynamic Security Needs

HID Signo Readers feature a sleek, upscale design and deliver innovative features to help keep organisations secure, including:

● Highly versatile — Support for the widest range of credential technologies, including HID Mobile Access via native Bluetooth and near field communication (NFC) capability. Also features Apple’s Enhanced Contactless Polling (ECP) to support credentials in the Apple Wallet, and support for mobile credentials in Google Wallet.

● Enhanced performance — Secure storage, plus a surface detection feature that enables the reader to automatically recalibrate and optimize read range performance.

● Connected to the future — Out-of-the-box support for Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) for secure bidirectional communication. Each reader is also designed to be connected and managed remotely without “sneakernet” or the need to be physically touched.