Author: Rabindra

Novotel Pune Hosts Lebanese Food Festival Featuring Renowned Chef Jameela Ghani

Novotel Pune is delighted to announce a Lebanese Food Festival from May 24th to June 2nd, featuring the celebrated Chef Jameela Ghani. With 27 years of experience in Syrian, Lebanese, and Middle Eastern cuisine, Chef Jameela will bring her culinary expertise to this vibrant event. Chef Jameela’s illustrious career has taken her to various prestigious hotels and restaurants, where she has honed her skills and introduced traditional Middle Eastern flavors to a diverse audience.

The festival, themed “Taste of Lebanon: A Culinary Odyssey,” celebrates the rich tapestry of Lebanese cuisine. Guests will be treated to a specialized menu featuring authentic dishes such as mezze platters, grilled meats, traditional stews, and flavorful vegetarian options.

Chef Jameela’s signature dishes, Qouzi (stuffed baby lamb) and Kunafa (baked vermicelli-like cheese pastry), showcase her dedication to quality, taste, and culinary creativity. She emphasizes the use of fresh Arabian ingredients sourced from the finest local suppliers, ensuring a feast that satisfies every palate.

Join us at Novotel Pune for an unforgettable celebration of Lebanese cuisine.

What: Lebanese Food Festival
Where: The Square, Novotel Pune
When: May 24 – June 02, 2024, 19:30 to 23:00

Spydra’s No-Code Asset Tokenization: Simplifying Investment for All

The advent of Spydra’s innovative low-code asset tokenization platform marks a paradigm shift, simplifying a traditionally complex process. It caters to the needs of both tech-savvy investors and those new to the investment sphere. This strategic use of no-code technology fosters a more inclusive financial ecosystem, where participation is encouraged and barriers are dismantled.

The introduction of Spydra’s no-code asset tokenization platform heralds a significant departure from the conventional, cumbersome methods. It not only simplifies the investment process but also embraces inclusivity by enabling both tech-savvy and novice investors to engage seamlessly.

What is Asset Tokenization?

Asset tokenization is like turning something valuable, such as real estate or artwork, into digital building blocks that can be easily bought or sold online. Imagine your valuable asset, like a piece of art, being transformed into smaller, digital tokens. These tokens represent ownership or shares in the original asset.

For example, think of a pizza. If you tokenize it, you’re breaking it into slices. Each slice (token) represents a portion of the whole pizza (asset). You can buy or sell these slices (tokens) without needing to buy the entire pizza (full asset). This process makes investing in valuable assets more accessible. You don’t need a huge amount of money to invest; you can buy as many slices (tokens) as you can afford. It’s like owning a piece of something big, even if you can’t afford the whole thing.

The cool part? These digital tokens are stored securely on a computer system called the blockchain. This makes transactions safe, transparent, and easy to track, ensuring everyone knows who owns what. It’s a modern way to make investing simpler and open up exciting opportunities for everyone, whether you’re a tech whiz or just starting your investment journey.

Spydra and Hyperledger Fabric: Quick Overview

Hyperledger Fabric is an open-source enterprise-grade blockchain framework hosted by the Linux Foundation. It provides a foundation for developing blockchain applications with a focus on modularity, scalability, and security. Unlike public blockchains like Bitcoin or Ethereum, Hyperledger Fabric is designed for permissioned networks, where participants are known and trusted.

Spydra leverages the power of Hyperledger Fabric to provide its users with a secure, efficient, and customizable blockchain solution. By integrating Hyperledger Fabric’s features, Spydra ensures that its platform is built on a foundation of advanced security and scalability, crucial for real-world enterprise applications.

Spydra’s No-Code Tokenization Platform Comes into the Picture

This approach simplifies the complexities of investment and enhances the inclusivity of the financial ecosystem. Spydra’s groundbreaking Low/No-Code platform is a game-changer in the world of technology and software development. It empowers individuals, regardless of their technical expertise, to create applications, automate workflows, and innovate without the need for extensive coding knowledge.

Imagine having the ability to build & deploy powerful decentralized applications or Hyperledger Fabric projects using a simple, user-friendly interface. Spydra’s Low/No-Code platform allows just that. It’s akin to constructing a digital masterpiece with Lego-like blocks, where you can piece together functionalities and features effortlessly.

For tech-savvy individuals, this platform offers a rapid way to bring their ideas to life, significantly reducing the development cycle. They can fine-tune the intricacies and dive into the code if desired, giving them the flexibility they need. On the other hand, for those new to the tech arena, our platform is an entry point into the world of software creation. It eliminates the intimidation factor of coding, making it accessible and inviting. You can build, customize, and launch applications without needing to be an expert coder.

Key Advantages of Spydra’s No-Code Asset Tokenization

Spydra’s No-Code Asset Tokenization platform offers a multitude of advantages tailored for mid to large enterprises, streamlining the process of transforming assets into digital tokens without requiring intricate coding expertise:

Simplicity and Speed: Mid to large enterprises can rapidly tokenize their assets without the need for extensive coding. The intuitive no-code platform allows for a swift transition from traditional assets to digital tokens, saving valuable time and resources.

Cost-Effective Solution: Implementing asset tokenization through a no-code approach significantly reduces development costs. Enterprises can allocate resources more efficiently, directing funds towards growth and expansion initiatives rather than hefty development expenses.

Enhanced Accessibility and Inclusivity: Our no-code platform democratizes asset tokenization by making it accessible to a broader range of team members within the enterprise. Employees from diverse backgrounds can actively participate in the tokenization process, promoting inclusivity and collaboration.

Customization to Suit Unique Needs: Enterprises have the freedom to tailor the tokenization process to their specific requirements and asset types. Our no-code platform offers customizable options, ensuring that the tokenization aligns seamlessly with the enterprise’s business goals and asset portfolios.

Security and Compliance Assurance: Spydra’s no-code platform adheres to stringent security measures and compliance standards. Enterprises can tokenize assets with confidence, knowing that the platform maintains robust security protocols, safeguarding sensitive data and transactions.

Efficient Resource Allocation: By simplifying the tokenization process, mid to large enterprises can allocate their skilled workforce more efficiently. Technical experts can focus on strategic initiatives, while non-technical personnel can actively participate in asset tokenization using the no-code platform.

Scalability for Future Growth: The no-code platform is designed to scale with the enterprise as it grows and diversifies its asset portfolio. Enterprises can tokenize additional assets seamlessly as their business expands, ensuring a scalable solution that grows with their needs.

Looking Ahead

Spydra’s foray into low/no-code asset tokenization is a game-changer, revolutionizing the investment landscape and setting a new standard for accessibility and inclusivity. By breaking down the barriers to entry and simplifying the investment process, we’re empowering a new generation of investors, unlocking the potential for substantial market growth.

Incofin India Progress Fund, Maj Invest Financial Inclusion Fund III Invest USD13M in SAVE Group

23rd  May 2024: International asset management companies Incofin and Maj Invest collectively invest USD 13 million in India’s leading rural financial services conglomerate, SAVE Group. The funding comes from Incofin India Progress Fund and Maj Invest Financial Inclusion Fund III K/s.

Established in 2009, SAVE has emerged as a trailblazer in India’s Banking Business Correspondent (BC) Network, serving over 25 million customers nationwide. Under the leadership of Ajeet Kumar Singh, Pankaj Kumar and Ajay Kumar Sinha, SAVE has diversified into a robust rural financial services conglomerate, extending its reach deep into rural communities.

Leveraging its extensive network, SAVE plans to expand its lending verticals through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, providing Microfinance Loans, Secured MSME Loans, and Affordable Housing Loans.

Maj Invest Financial Inclusion Fund III K/s previously infused approximately USD 3 million into SAVE Solutions, the Holding Company of SAVE Group in March 2024. Now, IPF’s investment of USD 10 million comes into SaGgraha Management Services, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SAVE specializing in Microfinance Loans through the BC model sharing the commitment to empowering rural communities through improving financial access.

Ajeet Kumar Singh, Co-Founder and Director of SAVE Solutions Private Limited, expressed enthusiasm stating: “We are delighted to partner with Incofin IPF and grateful for Maj Invest’s continuous support. Beyond strengthening our ability to expand our loan book, this infusion emboldens our pursuit of delivering high quality financial services in the rural underserved segment. We will benefit immensely from Incofin’s and Maj Invest’s global experience and value creation and eagerly anticipate our collaboration with them!”.

Siva Vadivelazhagan, Director at Maj Invest, comments “We are excited about the opportunity to invest in SAVE Solutions and recognize their potential to revolutionize rural finance on a large scale. Together, we aim to amplify the impact of financial inclusion initiatives, empowering communities nationwide.”

Aditya Bhandari, Partner & Regional Director, Asia Equity, Incofin, emphasised the strategic alignment between the SAVE mission and Incofin core values. “SAVE & SaGgraha’s commitment to providing accessible financial services to underserved populations resonates deeply with Incofin’s ethos. We are quite impressed with SAVEs diversified product offerings. It’s one of its kinds in India. We are excited to partner with the group in its mission of inclusive finance to rural masses.”.

DS Group’s Confectionery Business Marks ₹1,000 Crore Milestone

New Delhi,23rd May 2024 – Dharampal Satyapal Foods Ltd. (DSFL), the confectionery arm of DS Group, has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing ₹1,000 crores in annual sales turnover in FY 2023-24. DS Group is the second largest confectionery player in the non-chocolate category and amongst the largest, fastest-growing Indian confectionery players in the industry commanding a leadership position in the Hard Boiled Candy (HBC) and Indian ethnic confectionery (IEC) segments. The confectionery division of DS Group has grown by over 20 percent CAGR in the last three years while the industry has grown at 9 percent and plans to accelerate business with a CAGR of approx. 30 pc over the next 5 years through organic and inorganic growth.

With one of the largest distribution networks in the country today, DS Group’s confectionery products are available in over 26 lakh retail outlets, directly and indirectly, and its market share dominates the closest competitor in Hard-Boiled Candy (HBC) and Indian ethnic confectionery (IEC) segment. Innovation and the route-to-market strategy with an omni-channel presence including modern retail, e-commerce, and quick commerce, have been the key growth drivers. Building upon its strong foundation and leveraging the strength of its understanding of flavors and fragrances and consumer taste buds, the confectionery arm of DS Group aims to achieve a sales turnover of ₹5,000 crores over the next five years. This ambitious goal will be achieved through organic and inorganic growth. Currently, the company holds a dominant position in North and East India and is strategically expanding its presence in South and West India.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman of DS Group, said, “We are thrilled to announce the ₹1000 crore sales turnover of the confectionery arm of DS Group in the financial year 2023-24. This achievement is a result of our strategic focus on enhancing indigenization, expanding our product portfolio, and having one of the largest distribution networks in the country. Looking ahead, we aim to grow our presence in the chocolate segment while strategically expanding our leadership position in the Indian ethnic confectionery category with innovative products.”

Championing sustainability efforts, a robust fleet of 800+ electric vehicles is deployed in the distribution of confectionery products, thereby contributing to a cleaner environment. The Group is driven towards responsible expansion with intense investments planned in the ESG space. The aim is to govern DS Group through the highest professional and ethical standards lead with integrity, and deliver impact responsibly while maintaining the trust of partners, colleagues, and society.

DS Group’s culture of innovation and commitment to quality is evident across all segments of DSFL’s business. The company has crafted compelling brand narratives and distinct consumer propositions for its key brands like Pulse, Pass Pass, Rajnigandha Pearls, Chingles, Pulse Natkaare, and the recently acquired LuvIt. Despite the competitive nature of the hard-boiled candy market, DSFL’s brand “Pulse” has maintained its position as the market leader for the past 8 years. In the competitive Indian Ethnic Confectionery segment, DSFL stands out with its diverse offerings. The “Pass Pass” blend caters to those who enjoy a mix of flavors, while “Rajnigandha Pearls” offers a single-ingredient experience.

Through continuous innovation, DSFL has successfully transformed the Indian Ethnic Confectionery category into a branded and organized market, providing consumers with unique options to suit their preferences. Leveraging its innate understanding of the flavors and tastes of modern India, the company is strategically contemporizing its ethnic product portfolio while focusing on Gen Z habits, strengthening modern trade channels, capitalizing on influencer marketing, and harnessing new-age technologies to amplify product reach. This accentuates the corporate ideology of ‘Create What is Worth Creating’.

apna.co and Rubicon partner to enable 50,000+ job opportunities in FY25

Mumbai, 23rd May 2024: In the dynamic job landscape where 90% of organizations are predicted to face skills gaps by 2026, contributing to significant unemployment and economic loss, apna – India’s leading jobs and professional networking platform – has partnered with Rubicon to empower 50,000 job seekers by providing them with essential skills and job opportunities. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between talent and industry demands via customized training and development programs, enabling jobs across BFSI, IT & ITES, Retail, HR and the various sectors.

The platform has already facilitated job applications for more than 5,000 job seekers and plans to add another 100,000 users by the end of FY2025. Recording active participation from women in the workforce, the initiative has drawn 60% of job applications from women.

The collaboration between Apna and Rubicon is set to make a significant impact across India, targeting a wide range of cities to maximize reach and effectiveness. In Tier 1 cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, the partnership aims to create 20,000 job opportunities. Meanwhile, in Tier 2 and 3 cities like Jaipur, Surat, Lucknow, and Bhubaneswar, the focus is even greater, with 30,000 job posts planned. This strategic distribution ensures that job seekers from various regions and cities have access to the opportunities they need to advance their careers, reflecting a deep commitment to tapping into the potential of India’s diverse workforce.

Nirmit Parikh, Founder & CEO, apna.co, commented, “In today’s dynamic job landscape, we remain dedicated to shaping India’s future by equipping its youth to thrive both nationally and globally. Our partnership with Rubicon aims to address the significant challenges young individuals face in securing employment through skill development initiatives. This move aligns perfectly with our mission of bridging the employment gap and revolutionizing the hiring process while connecting candidates with the right job opportunities.”

Dhanya Narayanan, COO, Rubicon commented, “We are thrilled to join forces with apna.co, an innovative job opportunities platform, in our shared mission to empower individuals with the skills and resources needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market. By combining our experience and expertise in skilling and training with apna’s cutting-edge recruitment solutions, we are confident to make a meaningful impact in bridging the gap between education and employment of the 2 million job seekers we plan to support by 2030”

Through this collaboration, apna.co’s mission is to leverage Rubicon’s expertise in skill development and complement its extensive job placement network. This synergy enhances apna.co’s capacity to empower individuals via comprehensive training, augmenting employability, streamlining recruitment processes and creating meaningful job opportunities. Leveraging Rubicon’s skill development expertise, apna.co plans to streamline recruitment processes, diminish hiring timelines and achieve a 70% increase in job placements within the inaugural year.

Fix My Curls Secures Seed Funding Round led by Amazon Smbhav Venture Fund

New Delhi, 23rd May 2024 – Fix My Curls, a leading curly, & wavy hair-focused haircare brand, today announced that it has secured a seed funding round led by Amazon Smbhav Venture Fund. Other investors in this round include India Quotient & DSG Consumer Partners. This latest round of funding is intended to help Fix My Curls’ efforts in accelerating new product development, advancing innovations in hair care, and enhancing leadership & branding initiatives. It is also intended to help Fix My Curls reach more consumers in Tier 2 cities across India who are looking for effective solutions for their textured hair.

Founded by Anshita Mehrotra, Fix My Curls was born from her realization of the glaring neglect of curly hair in India’s beauty and salon industry. To bridge this gap, Anshita launched her homegrown brand, Fix My Curls, offering a comprehensive range of hair care products including shampoo, conditioner, accessories, styling products, and more.

Sharing her thoughts on the funding, Anshita Mehrotra, the founder of Fix My Curls, commented, “Through the strands of innovation and power of inclusivity, Fix My Curls is not just redefining haircare, but with time, it has become a symbol of representation and acceptance in the Indian beauty landscape. We are excited to welcome Amazon Smbhav Venture Fund into our investor group and get the backing of consumer-focused VCs like India Quotient & DSG Consumer Partners. We believe we can grow this category, educate consumers as well as our community of all textured-haired people who share their common experiences and struggles with embracing their natural hair in India.”

Abhijeet Muzumdar, VP Corporate Development, Amazon & Head of Amazon Smbhav Venture Fund said, “Our vision with the $250MM Amazon Smbhav Venture Fund is to empower the next generation of innovative startups led by strong founders. Anshita and her team at Fix My Curls are bringing a comprehensive range of products for textured hair and we are excited to partner with them for the next phase of their growth.”

Sahil Makkar, VP India Quotient also said “Anshita, along with her team have created highly differentiated and innovative products that resonate positively with those having curly, wavy, and textured hair. Drawing from her own experiences, she possesses profound customer insights, positioning her to build a large-scale, impactful brand in this niche market. We believe that this segment has long been underserved within the haircare industry and are excited to partner with FixMyCurls.”

Since its inception, the brand has expanded its presence across various marketplaces, including Amazon.in, Nykaa, BlinkIt, and its website. With a customer base of 1.2 lakh individuals, Fix My Curls has also entered the global arena, with products distributed to a total of 11 countries, including Germany, Romania, and Malaysia, among others.

Experience the Flavors of Punjabi Cuisine by Home Chef Shanna Oberoi at ‘pind Di Rasoi’ at Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel

Here’s your chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of Punjabi cuisine at Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel’s 10-day food festival – ‘Pind Di Rasoi’, showcasing the culinary mastery of visiting home chef Shanna Oberoi. From 21st to 30th May, ‘Pind Di Rasoi’ will offer guests an opportunity to savor a delectable array of traditional dishes such as Pindi Chole with Kulcha, Keema Mattar, Chicken Patiala, Paneer Alubukhara Kofta and more. With her profound knowledge and passion for authentic Punjabi cooking, Shanna Oberoi brings to the table an array of recipes that have been cherished and handed down over generations. From the robust flavors of Butter Chicken to the perfectly seasoned Chole Bhature, every dish is a celebration of Punjab’s bountiful agriculture and vibrant cultural history.

Punjabi cuisine is not just about food; it’s about a rich culinary heritage and a sense of community. Guests can look forward to an immersive dining experience filled with tantalizing aromas, vibrant flavors, and warm hospitality. Don’t miss this opportunity to embark on a culinary journey to Punjab at the Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel and indulge in an unforgettable dining experience.

Location: Feast, Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel
Dates: Until 30th May 2024
Timings: Lunch from 12:30 PM to 03:00 PM and Dinner from 07:00 PM to 11:00 PM

Aashirvaad launches ‘Himalayan Pink Salt’ with No Added Colours

Hyderabad 23rd May 2024: ITC Aashirvaad Salt today announced the launch of its new Himalayan Pink Salt. Also, known as Sendha Namak or Saindhava Lavana in India, pink salt is considered to be natural as it is sourced from the Himalayan salt mines.

To address apprehension in the minds of consumers regarding unscrupulous practices being adopted, where artificial colors are added to make the salt appear pinkish; Aashirvaad Himalayan PinkSalt comes with the assurance of “No added colors”. It is naturally deeper pink due to the high quality of salt Aashirvaad sources compared to other pink salts available in the market. This is one of the key differentiators and further testifies to Aashirvaad’s commitment towards providing quality and safe products to its discerning consumers.

Aashirvaad Himalayan Pink salt also contains essential minerals like calcium and magnesium. With minimal processing, the new offering enhances the flavor of meals and also assures taste of purity. Further, the multi-layer packaging retains the freshness of the product which consumers can assess instantly through the transparent strip.

Mr. Anuj Kumar Rustagi, COO, Staples and Adjacenciessays,“Our consumers study indicated that they are increasingly adopting pink salt due to its perceived health benefits. This encouraged us to launch the Himalayan Pink Salt. It comes with the quality assurance of Aashirvaad and we look forward to the positive response from our consumers.”

Aashirvaad Pink Salt will be available in Modern Trade/ISS stores across all major metros including Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad & Kolkata, and e-commerce/quick com platforms. The 1kg pack is priced at ₹120.

Huella Services Supercharges Leadership with Top Industry Talent to Drive Regional Growth

Mumbai, India, 23rd May 2024: Huella Services, a powerhouse in digital ad sales monetization, is announcing a dynamic revamp of its leadership team with the induction of three industry veterans as Regional Directors. This bold move will amplify regional accountability and deliver a cutting-edge, integrated approach to maximizing market share for brands and advertisers.

Kush Kapoor steps in as the Regional Director for North India. With over 12 years of robust sales experience, Kush has remarkably transitioned from hospitality to digital ad sales. His tenure at Ventes Avenues, where he spearheaded brand monetization, positions him as a formidable asset to Huella.

Kalyan Chakraborty, or KC, takes the helm as Regional Director for South India. KC brings an impressive 12-year track record in digital ad sales, enriched by his tenure with publishing giants like Times Internet and Indian Express. Known for his innovative, solution-driven strategies, KC is poised to lead Huella’s southern operations to new heights.

Ketaki Hardikar joins as the Regional Director for West India. A luminary in TV sales within the news genre, Ketaki has worked with industry leaders like CNBC and Republic TV. Although she is new to digital, her deep expertise in the BFSI sector and direct client engagement will bring fresh, powerful perspectives to Huella.

Mayura Nayak, CRO of Huella Services, expressed her excitement about the new additions, saying, “We’re thrilled to welcome Kush, Kalyan, and Ketaki to our leadership team. Their exceptional backgrounds and industry insights will be pivotal in turbocharging our regional strategies and delivering unparalleled value to our clients and partners.”