Author: Rabindra

Cleo County’s Durga Puja: A Heartfelt Homecoming Amidst the Festivities

Noida, 14thOctober, 2024: Cleo County’s Durga Puja has a way of tugging at your heartstrings, especially for those who’ve grown up with the sound of dhaak and the smell of fresh shiuli flowers marking the beginning of autumn. It’s not a grand pandal with lavish decorations like some of the others you find across Delhi. Instead, it’s a humble gathering of Bengali families who come together to create a Puja that feels like home—intimate, familiar, and filled with love.

 “When I first moved to Delhi, I used to visit the bigger pandals in CR Park and Kashmere Gate,” says, a resident, but the one here at Cleo County is different. It’s not about the show—it’s about the community. We don’t just attend; we participate in everything, from making the flower garlands to preparing the bhog. It takes me right back to my childhood, where everyone had a role, and Puja wasn’t something you watched; it was something you lived.”

 What sets Cleo County’s Durga Puja apart is the feeling that everyone’s involved, whether it’s reciting the pushpanjali prayers, organizing the cultural programs, or serving the traditional khichuri bhog. You won’t find the glitz of the CR Park pandals here, but you’ll find the warmth of shared memories, laughter, and stories that make this Puja unforgettable.

 “I remember, last year, after the sandhi puja, we all sat down for dinner together. Someone’s grandmother told us tales of how they celebrated back in their village, and it was like the entire room was transported back to Bengal,” recalls Mrs Sen. That’s what makes this Puja different—you don’t just celebrate, you reminisce.”

 Even Runki Goswami, the well-known classical singer who resides in Cleo County, is deeply immersed in the spirit of this Puja. Despite her public life, Durga Puja here is a time for her to reconnect with her roots. “Every year, I look forward to this Puja,” she shares. “It reminds me of home, the simplicity of our family gatherings, and the pure devotion that made our puja special. Cleo County brings that same feeling, where everyone knows everyone, and it feels like one big family coming together.”

 While other pandals in Delhi may boast celebrity performances and elaborate decorations, Cleo County’s Puja is special for its heartfelt simplicity. It’s a place where you’re not just a spectator, but a part of the tradition. The mothers chat in the kitchen while stirring the payesh, the children rehearse for their play in the evening, and the men debate over cricket after the aarti.

 “This Puja feels like a bridge between where we come from and where we are now,” says another resident. “No matter where life takes us, Cleo County’s Puja brings us home.”

 The other cherished highlight of the Puja here is the dhunuchi dance. As the evening aarti begins and the rhythmic beats of the dhaak intensify, men and women alike gather with dhunuchis in hand, swaying to the beats in perfect harmony. It’s not just the women in their elegant taant sarees who take part—here, the men join in just as enthusiastically, clad in their crisp dhotis and kurta, performing the energetic dance that is equal parts prayer and celebration.

 “I’ve seen dhunuchi naach at other pandals across Delhi, but here it feels so personal,” says Mr. Mukherjee, when I see the men step forward, lifting the dhunuchi and moving with such grace, it reminds me of my father and uncles back home, and who always led the dance with pride.”

 In a city where many Durga Pujas have become more about spectacle, Cleo County’s Puja stands out for the way it holds on to the roots. It’s where traditions are not outsourced, but cherished, where the rituals are performed by the very people who gather to celebrate, and where the festival is not just observed but lived.

SLCM Partners with Punjab National Bank and Bandhan Bank to offer Unified Collateral Management Solutions

India, 14 Oct 2024: Sohan Lal Commodity Management (SLCM), India’s largest post-harvest logistics and Agri-solutions Company, proudly announces its strategic partnership with Punjab National Bank (PNB) and Bandhan Bank. The collaboration aims to offer ‘Unified Collateral Management Solutions’ to support farmers and Agri-stakeholders in procuring post-harvest credits at competitive rates across the nation.

For these partnerships, SLCM will leverage its patented and industry-proven technology ‘Agri Reach’ and support these banks by offering more efficient post-harvest credit and advanced storage services to its stakeholders. Agri Reach has significantly reduced post-harvest losses from 10% to just 0.5% (acknowledged by FICCI Report), benefiting millions of farmers and stakeholders in the entire supply chain.

Having market leadership with 15+ years of experience, the SLCM Group has built strong relationships and trust with 23+ leading banking institutions across India and Myanmar. The company has been continuously working with multiple banks as their Collateral Managers for Warehouse Receipt Financing and offering field-tested and scalable ‘Unified Collateral Management Solutions’ comprising digitized warehouse management platform, quality & quantity commodity management, risk management, and security services to name a few.

On the announcement of the new partnerships, Sandeep Sabharwal, Group CEO of SLCM, expressed, stating “Our partnerships with 16 banks in India have established us as a “preferred partner” for financial institutions across the industry. Our latest tie-ups with Punjab National Bank and Bandhan Bank are a testament to their invested faith in our innovative and scientific approach to post-harvest management platform. By leveraging our Phygital infrastructure and cutting-edge Agri Reach technology, we are enabling our banking partners to provide farmers with efficient and secure loans, reducing the risk of default and ensuring better financial access for the entire agricultural ecosystem.”

The partnership promises to give farmers and agribusinesses with a seamless experience by fusing the financial expertise of Bandhan Bank and Punjab National Bank with the innovative collateral management and warehousing solutions offered by SLCM, therefore ensuring that farmers can store their harvests securely while accessing much-needed financial support.

With a network spanning 19 Indian states, SLCM operates over 16,742 warehouses and 36 cold storages, offering end-to-end post-harvest solutions for more than 1,080 commodities (as of 30 September, 24). These partnerships will facilitate comprehensive finance and collateral management services for commodities like cotton, pulses, maize, spices, and mentha oil.

India’s Marketing Minds Unite to Launch CMO Fellowship Program for Aspiring Marketing Leaders

Bangalore, 14th October: Some of India’s seasoned marketing leaders have come together to launch the CMO Fellowship, an advanced marketing program focused on training mid-senior professionals to become better marketing leaders. The fellowship is led by Shahbaaz, Head of Marketing at Cult, alongside Sindhu Biswal and Sushant Sadamate from Buzzlab, a content-led growth consulting firm. For the program, they have partnered with Shawrya, Rajan, and Ayush from Metvy, a platform known for its immersive, mentor-led educational experiences such as the VC Fellowship by HireVC.

The fellowship is a 3-month program taught by marketing leaders from Cult, Ajio, PayTm, Landmark, Unacademy, and other major companies. Its mission is to help mid-senior marketing professionals become future-ready and excel in leadership roles. Unlike traditional theory-heavy courses, the CMO Fellowship emphasizes practical, real-world skills. One of the highlights of the program is the proprietary ZETA framework developed by Sindhu Biswal, Chief Mentor of the fellowship, which has successfully grown brands such as Filter Copy, Finance with Sharan, and the Raj Shamani Podcast.

Metvy Founders Shawrya and Rajan shared, “We at Metvy believe that people should get to learn from people they aspire to be like through high quality fellowships. Imagine getting to learn Marketing from multiple CMOs with personalised guidance. Sindhu, Shahbaaz and Sushant understood this vision well as top marketing leaders – and we are excited to partner with them for this.”

Shahbaaz, Head of Marketing at Cult, emphasized, “All marketing is supposed to perform, build the brand and deliver to business goals. Marketers today run the risk of becoming irrelevant if they don’t learn to apply this principle. Unfortunately currently there are too many outdated or fragmented approaches to this, and it’s a pleasure to solve for this”

Sindhu and Sushant, co-founders of Buzzlab, added, “Marketing taught through recorded video courses is outdated. You can’t teach someone marketing in 1hr or 1 day or 1 week. Hence, we are doing what is right for people.”

The CMO Fellowship is designed to equip aspiring marketing leaders with the skills, knowledge, and network needed to excel in today’s marketing field. The program offers gamified mentorship sessions, live projects, and direct mentorship from top CMOs, preparing fellows to tackle the challenges of modern marketing leadership and distinguishing them from their peers.

VOC Automotive Launches First Store in Pune, Targeting 100+ stores across western India this year

India – October 14, 2024 – VOC Automotive, the pioneering leader in multi-brand two-wheeler services, proudly announces the grand opening of its first outlet in Pune. Located at Dhayari Phata Rd, Garmal, Dhayari Phata, this new store marks a significant milestone in VOC Automotive’s ambitious expansion into the western region of India. After the success across South India, this launch further strengthens VOC’s mission to offer reliable, top-tier services for two-wheeler owners across the country.

Why Pune?

Pune, often referred to as the “Queen of Deccan” and the “Cultural Capital of Maharashtra,” is a vibrant and growing city known for its industrial and IT growth. With numerous tech hubs and a booming automotive market, Pune holds a commanding market share in western India. In fact, approximately 30 to 35 out of every 100 vehicles sold in India are purchased in Pune, making it one of the largest automotive markets in the region. This growth, combined with Pune’s reputation for quality service and timely delivery, makes it an ideal location for VOC Automotive to expand its footprint. Furthermore, Pune’s demand for convenience and quick services aligns perfectly with VOC’s specialization in providing seamless and hassle-free two-wheeler maintenance, meeting the needs of a fast-paced, tech-driven environment.

Expansion Plans

This Pune store is part of VOC Automotive’s larger vision to open over 100 stores across India by the end of this year. However, the company has already signed 162 locations in South India and is actively working towards expanding its network to over stores in western India. Overall, VOC currently operates across locations nationwide, within the southern region. With growing demand for dependable two-wheeler maintenance and repairs, VOC Automotive’s expansion reflects its commitment to providing quality, convenient services tailored to meet the specific needs of each market. The Pune store is equipped with cutting-edge facilities and a team of highly skilled, certified technicians offering services ranging from routine maintenance to exclusive service plans. Customers can expect quick, efficient, and reliable service designed to deliver the best possible experience.

Lokesh S, Director of VOC Automotive, expressed his excitement about the Pune launch:“We are thrilled to bring our trusted two-wheeler services to Pune. This new outlet represents our commitment to expanding our footprint and making VOC’s services accessible to riders across the country. Pune is a strategic location for us, and we look forward to building strong connections with the local community.”

Venkatesh BM, CEO of VOC Automotive, added “The launch of our Pune outlet is a significant step in our journey towards opening stores across India. We are confident that our focus on customer satisfaction, combined with our state-of-the-art technology and skilled workforce, will help us continue to redefine the two-wheeler service industry. This expansion is only the beginning, and we’re excited for what lies ahead.”

Experience Rajasthan and Haryana’s Folk Culture at Reach 3Roads, Gurugram

Reach 3Roads is excited to host “Raag Rang Utsav”, a two-day extravaganza celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of Rajasthan and Haryana, on 12 and 13 October 2024. The vibrant festival will showcase the best of Rajasthani and Haryanvi folk culture through captivating performances, authentic cuisine, and festive stalls. Visitors can come across the mesmerising rhythms of traditional music, witness the grace of folk dances, and indulge in the flavours of regional delicacies.

The festival promises an array of activities that beautifully highlight the unique cultural heritage of Rajasthan and Haryana. Attendees can look forward to live performances featuring traditional music, dance, and storytelling by esteemed folk artists from both states, providing a captivating glimpse into their cultural narratives. Visitors will also have the opportunity to savor a delectable selection of Rajasthani and Haryanvi dishes, including spicy curries, tangy chutneys, sweet delicacies, and refreshing beverages that reflect the culinary richness of these regions.

Prakriti Kundaliya, AVP, Marketing, Reach Group, said, “We are excited to bring the diverse cultural heritage of Rajasthan and Haryana through Raag Rang Utsav. Both states are popularly known for their vibrant culture. The festival is a unique opportunity for people to connect with these vibrant traditions, celebrate our shared roots and create lasting memories that honor the essence of Indian culture.”

Visitors can browse a diverse selection of handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional items at various stalls, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of local artisans. Attendees can also participate in interactive workshops and activities designed to celebrate and educate them about the rich heritage of Rajasthan and Haryana, offering a hands-on experience of their cultural traditions. With its vibrant atmosphere, captivating performances, and delicious food, Raag Rang Utsav is a must-visit for anyone interested in Indian culture.

The Mall of Faridabad Announces the Store Opening of Blackberrys new flagship store

The Mall of Faridabad is proud to announce the successful launch of Blackberrys new flagship store at the mall precincts. The store’s opening on the first floor adds to the mall’s diverse fashion offerings, providing shoppers with an exceptional blend of business and lifestyle apparel. Blackberrys is known for its premium formal and casual wear. It brings its contemporary and stylish collection to the city’s premier shopping destination.

Commenting on the store launch, Mr. Abhishek Bansal, Executive Director, Pacific Group, said, “We are delighted to have Blackberrys as part of our expanding retail family. Their commitment to quality and style aligns seamlessly with our vision to offer an elevated shopping experience. We believe this new addition will enrich our visitors’ choices and further enhance The Mall of Faridabad’s position as a leading shopping destination.”

Located in the heart of Faridabad, the Mall continues to attract fashion-conscious shoppers from across the region. With the addition of Blackberrys, visitors now have access to the brand’s latest collections, from elegant formal attire to trendy casual wear, making it a go-to spot for style enthusiasts.

Ganga Realty Celebrates Navratri with Dandiya Nights Extravaganza

Gurugram, October 10, 2024 – Ganga Realty, one of Gurugram’s leading real estate developers, hosted an unforgettable evening of culture, celebration, and community on the auspicious occasion of Navratri. The Dandiya Night, held on October 10, 2024, at Anubhava Experience Centre, Sector 84 Gurugram, saw enthusiastic participation from over 200 esteemed guests, including channel partners, influencers, and community representatives.

The event, designed to combine traditional Navratri festivities with modern flair, began with an exclusive product and event shoot. Key influencers and channel partners participated in the shoot to capture the vibrant decor, unique experiences, and special moments from the event. The shoot also focused on highlighting the latest offerings of Ganga Realty, with a spotlight on the brand’s USP and the exciting VR experience of the upcoming project.

Around 6:00 pm, guests began arriving and were greeted with the customary warmth and tradition, as they registered and received their event kits, including Dandiya sticks, costumes, and more. The opening ceremony was marked by a heartfelt welcome from the event host, followed by a Pooja to invoke blessings for prosperity and success. Key representatives from Ganga Realty addressed the gathering, sharing their vision and commitment to developing iconic luxury residential spaces in Gurugram.

Mr. Vikas Garg, Joint Managing Director of Ganga Realty, shared his thoughts on the occasion, stating, “At Ganga Realty, we believe in building more than just homes, we strive to create vibrant communities where people can come together and celebrate traditions that unite us all. Our Navratri Dandiya Night was a reflection of this vision – blending cultural pride with modern engagement, as we continue our journey of delivering not just exceptional living spaces, but also unforgettable experiences for our partners and clients.”

A professional Dandiya performance ignited the festive spirit, followed by guests joining in the vibrant Dandiya Raas. A live DJ kept the energy high with a mix of Garba and Bollywood hits, ensuring everyone stayed on their feet. The evening featured “Best Dressed” and “Best Dancer” contests, with stylish and energetic guests winning exciting prizes. Attendees enjoyed a delicious buffet blending traditional and fusion dishes to cater to all tastes. The night concluded with a final round of Dandiya Raas, followed by a networking session where guests mingled with Ganga Realty’s leadership and industry professionals. The event showcased Ganga Realty’s dedication to not just building homes but creating meaningful experiences and fostering community spirit.

A New Season of ‘Tour D’ Royale’ Spotlights the Magical Charms of India’s Historic Palaces and Forts

An extraordinary journey through the opulent world of India’s palaces, heritage hotels and forts awaits audiences, as History TV18’s captivating series Tour D’ Royale returns for a new season. Hosted by charismatic street-style magician, Neel Madhav, this 10-part series distinctively blends history and magic, giving viewers never-before-seen access to the rich heritage and culture of ancient kingdoms, and inviting them to explore these stunning locations alongside members of the royal households. The series is set to premiere on 14th October, every Monday – Tuesday at 8PM, on History TV18.

Tour D’ Royale offers an intimate look into the affluence and influence of these eminent families. The combination of history and magic creates a unique blend of entertainment that not only educates, but also immerses audiences in the royal way of life – from enjoying sumptuous feasts and tea with queens, to showcasing the King’s personal railway saloon. Traveling through majestic landscapes, Neel conjures up moments of connection, wonder and amazement, pulling out unexpected tricks that will leave viewers spellbound. The series offers captivating storytelling, mesmerizing magic, and engaging interactions with locals and royalty alike.

The second season takes us to the palaces and forts of Baroda, Gondal, Muli, Maheshwar, Dhenkanal, Kalahandi, Jodhpur, Bundi, Nawalgarh, and Bhopal. Each location is bound to leave viewers enthralled when they see it through the prism of magic. Stories held tightly within the ramparts of thick walls and behind gilded doors, come alive. Neel explores the vivid past of these monuments – how a formidable fortress was once a protector of its rural people, how palaces were built as symbols of power and prestige, and how regal hospitality and care continue today as guests are welcomed into these spaces turned into heritage hotels. Esteemed hosts like Maharani Radhika Raje, Rajmata Kumud ji Sinh Jadeja, Maharaja Gaj Singh Ji and Yuvrani Meenal Singh Deo unveil the splendour behind them, from the luxurious Lakshmi Vilas Palace to the majestic Mehrangarh Fort.

The stories emphasize art, architecture and design that have been passed down generations and upheld by modern-day royalty – from vintage artifacts and curated collections, including artwork by legends like Raja Ravi Verma, to intricate carvings and exquisite frescoes. The show offers a fresh look at the vibrant cultures of different kingdoms across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Odisha and Madhya Pradesh. The opportunity for viewers to witness unique living traditions like the Gangaur festival, explore the natural beauty of the Little Rann of Kutch, and learn about the revival of Chanderi Sarees, through the eyes of a magician, adds a touch of surprise and excitement to the historical narrative. With each episode, Tour D’ Royale peels back layers of history, revealing fascinating stories and hidden treasures that celebrate India’s regal past.

Space Kidz India launches global satellite mission ShakthiSAT to empower 12,000 young girls across 108 nations

Space Kidz India announces the launch of its groundbreaking global initiative, “ShakthiSAT,” a mission that aims to inspire and empower 12,000 young girls from 108 countries through space exploration. The mission’s name was officially revealed at an event held at New Maharashtra Sadan in New Delhi, marking a pivotal moment in the global movement to foster STEM education for young women.

The ShakthiSAT announcement was graced by Smt. Savitri Thakur (Union Minister of State for Women and Child Development), Ms. Ganga Nidhi Agarwal (Officer on Special Duty, Ministry of External Affairs and Air Force Officer), Ms. Jaya Tare (Retd. IAF Wing Commander, CEO & Founder of Newrizon Space), Ms. Meetu Puri (National Board COWE India, Co-founder of TENOTT), Dr. Alka Kapur (Principal of Modern Public School, Delhi), Mr. K L Ganju (High Commissioner of the Republic of Union of the Comoro), His Excellency Mr. Thabang Linus (Deputy High Commissioner of Lesotho), and Mr. Sarbjit Singh (Additional Inspector General, Chandigarh). Their participation underscores the global importance of ShakthiSAT and highlights the collective dedication to empowering girls through education, mentorship, and opportunities in STEM.

Besides, the event was attended by many distinguished women leaders and dignitaries from across the globe, including 50 influential women representing various nations. In the next three weeks, the Honourable President of India will unveil the official poster of ShakthiSAT, an iconic milestone for the mission that further symbolizes the pride and prestige of this revolutionary project.

By engaging 108 students from each participating country, the mission seeks to nurture talent, foster international collaboration, and ignite interest in the vast possibilities of space science, ultimately creating a ripple effect that inspires millions of young girls worldwide.

On this occasion, Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Mission Lead of ShakthiSAT, delivered a powerful message, she stated, “As I share the vision behind Mission ShakthiSAT, I would like to emphasize a sentiment deeply embedded in the spirit of this initiative—the incredible strength of women. Throughout history, women have faced numerous challenges and adversities. Yet, time and again, they have shown resilience, determination, and an unshakable ability to rise above the toughest of circumstances.”

“I am extremely happy to have conceived this idea, and I am confident that this initiative has the potential to benefit not only our country but the entire world. Our goal is to inspire and empower young women, providing them with opportunities that have the power to transform lives and unite us globally through the awe-inspiring domain of space exploration,” Dr. Kesan added.