Author: Rabindra

NCR Real Estate Sees Surge in New Launches, Decline in Sales

GURGAON: In the third quarter of 2024, the National Capital Region (NCR) witnessed a substantial 53% year-on-year (YoY) increase in new housing launches, with approximately 14,130 units entering the market. Despite this impressive yearly growth, the market saw a 17% decline in new launches compared to the second quarter of 2024. A significant portion of the new supply—64%—was concentrated in the ultra-luxury segment, priced above INR 2.5 crore, reflecting the growing demand for high-end living spaces.

On the sales front, NCR recorded the sale of approximately 15,570 units in Q3 2024, representing a slight 2% decrease from the same period last year. When compared to the previous quarter, sales dipped by 6%, suggesting a cooling off in buyer sentiment as interest rates and property prices continue to rise.

Developer Insights

Leading real estate developers in the region remain optimistic about the long-term prospects of the market, despite the short-term fluctuations.

Surinder Singh, Director at GLS Group, said, “The rise in new launches, especially in the luxury segment, indicates that there is a strong demand for premium properties in NCR. Homebuyers today are looking for larger spaces, better amenities, and prime locations, which is driving growth in this segment. We are confident that as the economy stabilizes, sales will pick up in the coming quarters.”

Homebuyer Sentiment

However, homebuyers have expressed mixed reactions to the current market trends. While the supply of high-end properties is increasing, affordability remains a concern for many.

Shalini Mehta, a prospective homebuyer, shared, “I’ve been looking for a new home for the past six months, but with prices constantly rising, it’s becoming difficult to find something within my budget. The focus on ultra-luxury properties seems to be leaving out middle-class buyers like me.”

Market Outlook

Experts believe that while the luxury segment will continue to grow, the market needs to strike a balance between premium and affordable housing options to cater to a wider audience.

“Farida Drip” marks FEROZI’s explosive debut, as MC SQUARE and his six-member collective announce their arrival

National, 27th September 2024: A new-era in Indian hip-hop is set to take center stage as FEROZI, a bold six-member collective is set to dominate with the release of its debut track Farida Drip. Headed by Lambardar MC SQUARE, along with MNDP, Gurjar HB, Mark Bhatia, SkyMeriJaan, and producer ZeroToOne, the group redefines Desi hip hop, carving out a unique space that combines street culture, storytelling, and unfiltered grit. Hailing from the streets of Faridabad, Haryana, these six fierce voices, bound by brotherhood, and driven by the hunger to make Desi hip-hop scream louder than ever before, symbolize a new wave of music that blends raw storytelling with street culture.

Alongside their official announcement, FEROZI’s debut single ‘Farida Drip’ from their upcoming album FEROZI: The Arrival is a powerful introduction, packed with energy and attitude, signaling their ferocious entry into the Indian music scene. The track opens with an intense, ominous chord, quickly transitioning into thunderous beats produced by ZeroToOne. Each member brings their distinct style, delivering electrifying vocals that demand attention. Farida Drip, with its swagger, confidence, and authenticity, boldly declares the collective’s intent to disrupt and change the hip-hop game.

Speaking on the formation of FEROZI and their debut single, MC SQUARE shared, “Being a FEROZI is like being part of a family united by a single vision – brotherhood. The six of us have come together to tell our stories in the rawest form. Our first single, Farida Drip, is our way of announcing that we’re here to make waves in the Indian hip-hop scene, and we’re doing it on our own terms. With FEROZI, we’re representing Faridabad, our roots, culture, and Desi hip-hop on a global level.”

“FEROZI is the start of something big, and Farida Drip is just the beginning. We’ve all faced our own battles growing up in Faridabad, and that struggle is what fuels our music. FEROZI is a raw reflection of our lives and the world around us. With this collective, we want to show the world the strength and versatility of Desi hip-hop, and we’re here to make sure our voices are heard,” said the collective FEROZI.

Each member brings their own unique voice and experience, making FEROZI bold, raw and unapologetically authentic. Fusing their Faridabad roots with a sound that India has yet to witness, the group challenges conventional boundaries of Desi hip-hop, channeling their thoughts into a dynamic sound that is poised to resonate with fans across the globe. Keep an eye out for more groundbreaking music from this trailblazing collective as they continue to push boundaries and reshape the Indian hip-hop scene.

MONIN launches its third Indian experiential Studio in Mumbai

27th September, Mumbai: MONIN, the premium syrup brand celebrated for its mastery of nature’s flavors, is thrilled to announce the opening of its latest experiential studio in Mumbai. Following successful launches in Delhi and Bengaluru, this new studio further solidifies MONIN’s commitment to the Indian market. Situated in Juhu, a vibrant cultural hub, the Mumbai Studio will officially open its doors on 26th September 2024.

 Designed as a space for co-creativity, the MONIN Studio will serve as a gathering point for stakeholders to engage with the community and elevate their creative efforts. This environment will facilitate collaboration among HORECA professionals and industry leaders, fostering the development of innovative recipes.

 Mr. Germain Araud, Managing Director of MONIN India Pvt. Ltd, shared his enthusiasm for the Mumbai Studio: “The Indian FCB sector is thriving, and MONIN is well-positioned to introduce new creations to the beverage scene. This studio is set to become a hub of inspiration, driving beverage and culinary innovations led by industry experts. As part of our ‘Make in India’ initiative, we have an ambitious expansion plan, including a factory expected to begin operations in late 2025. Additionally, our new Research and Development center in Hyderabad will focus on creating localized flavors and tailored-made solutions for our key accounts, engaging communities at every level.”

 Housed in a beautifully renovated bungalow on a tranquil plot adjacent to Juhu Tara Road— the “Beverly Hills of Bollywood”—the MONIN Center aims to elevate hospitality. Its open layout and modern equipment are designed to encourage the flow of ideas and creativity, resulting in impactful innovations. Committed to local adaptation, the studio’s design features elements such as terracotta jaali, clay roof tiles, and Waarli art, thoughtfully integrated to reflect the rich cultural heritage of the area.

 With three experiential studios now operational across India, MONIN emphasizes its dedication to local engagement and sustainability, embodying the belief that life is a creative journey.

Grab Blaupunkt Smart TVs with 3-Month Free OTT Play This Flipkart Big Billion Days Sale!

New Delhi, Sep 2024 – Blaupunkt, a brand with a 100-year legacy in the audio-visual industry, is set to participate in the much-anticipated Flipkart Big Billion Days 2024 Sale. This major shopping event will commence on September 26 for Flipkart Plus members, with full access for all customers starting on September 27. During the sale, Blaupunkt will be offering substantial discounts on its entire lineup of televisions.

Blaupunkt televisions, with a variety of payment options, including no-cost EMI plans, UPI offers, and exchange deals. HDFC Bank customers can avail instant discounts on HDFC cards and EMI transactions, while Flipkart Pay Later offers flexible payment solutions. Flipkart Plus members will also benefit from exclusive SuperCoins offers for additional saving. Customers will also receive a free 3-month OTT play subscription to SonyLIV, ZEE5, and 25 other original apps exclusively on Android TVs.

Blaupunkt’s QLED TVs bring exceptional picture quality with 4K Ultra HD resolution and HDR10+ support, displaying over 1.1 billion colors for a vibrant and immersive experience. The QLED technology enhances every detail, while stereo box speakers with DTS TruSurround ensure crystal-clear sound. With built-in Google TV, accessing your favorite apps and content is seamless. Featuring a sleek, bezel-less design and slim profile, Blaupunkt QLED TVs combine cutting-edge performance with modern aesthetics, making them a standout choice during the Flipkart Big Billion Days sale.

Smart TVs are designed to redefine your viewing experience. Get an upgraded experience with a range of options, including the sleek and smart 32-inch LED Smart TV, 32CSG7111,or the 40-inch LED Smart TV, 40CSG7112, featuring the CyberSound G2 series. For larger screens, explore the 43-inch LED Smart TV, 43CSG7105,or the 43-inch QLED TV, 43QD7050.

Elevate your entertainment setup with the 50-inch Ultra HD 4K Smart LED TV, 50CSGT7022,the 50-inch QLED TV, 50QD7010. For a premium experience, indulge in the 55-inch LED Smart TV, 55CSGT7023,or the 55-inch QLED TV, 55QD7020.

Larger options include the 65-inch Ultra HD 4K Smart LED TV, 65CSGT7024, or the 65-inch QLED TV, 65QD7030. For a true cinematic experience, immerse yourself with the 75-inch QLED TV, 75QD7040.

Avneet Singh Marwah, CEO of Super Plastronics Pvt. Ltd., the exclusive brand licensee for Blaupunkt TVs in India, shared his excitement about the sale: “The Flipkart Big Billion Days Sale provides a tremendous opportunity for consumers to upgrade their home entertainment systems. We are thrilled to offer a range of discounts, banking partnerships, and payment options that cater to the diverse needs of our customers. Our goal is to enhance their viewing experience with quality products that are accessible and affordable during the festive season.”

Blaupunkt’s television range is built on a foundation of high performance and reliability, backed by the brand’s century-long commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. With a focus on delivering advanced technology at competitive prices, Blaupunkt continues to be a trusted choice for consumers seeking exceptional home entertainment solutions.

Turkish Technic to provide Component Support Services for Garuda Indonesia

Bengaluru, September 27th, 2024: Turkish Technic, a leading provider of aircraft and component maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services worldwide, has recently signed a multi-year Component Support Agreement with Garuda Indonesia, the flag carrier airline of Indonesia, at the MRO Asia-Pacific event held in Singapore.

This new agreement covers the Airbus A330 and Boeing 777 fleets of Garuda Indonesia, allowing the operator to benefit from Turkish Technic’s vast inventory of components and comprehensive solution services. This agreement ensures operational excellence with complete component support for Garuda’s fleet, building on the strong foundation of this new partnership.

Regarding the agreement Mikail Akbulut, CEO and Board Member of Turkish Technic, remarked: ‘‘We are excited to expand our collaboration with Garuda Indonesia, reaffirming the strength of our partnership. Our expertise in component support services has been pivotal in securing this agreement. With our warehouses located on 4 continents, we are ready to deploy critical components swiftly, ensuring minimal downtime for Garuda’s fleet. This agreement not only reinforces our global reach but also reflects our unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of service quality and operational excellence for our partners. We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with Garuda Indonesia.”

Commenting on the continuation of the partnership, Irfan Setiaputra, President & CEO of Garuda Indonesia, expressed: “We are pleased to strengthen the partnership with Turkish Technic, as it marks our long-standing commitment to deliver enhanced operations excellence through a seamless maintenance process, especially for our Airbus A330 and Boeing 777 fleets with the immense support from the expertise of Turkish Technic in component support services. As Garuda Indonesia shows a significant growth demand recently aligning with our extensive network plans, our focus solemnly refers to maintaining the highest safety standard in our fleets. Thus, the reliable services provided by Turkish Technic are believed to bolster the excellence of our flight operations preparations without any hassle.”

Operating as a one-stop MRO company with high-quality support, competitive turnaround times, and comprehensive in-house capabilities at its state-of-the-art hangars, Turkish Technic provides maintenance, repair, overhaul, engineering, modification, tailor-made component support, and reconfiguration to many domestic and international customers at five locations.

ZEE5 celebrates 100 million streaming minutes with stunning poster reveal of ‘Nunakkhuzhi’

In a landmark moment for the Malayalam entertainment industry, ZEE5 has unveiled the largest and most spectacular poster for the blockbuster film ‘Nunakkhuzhi’, celebrating a staggering milestone of 100 million streaming minutes. The success poster unveiling of Nunakkhuzi, which took place in the presence of the esteemed Minister of Education & Labour of Kerala, V Shivankutty, during a sports event, was a radiant tribute to the film’s phenomenal success and widespread acclaim across the streaming platform. Directed by the renowned Jeethu Joseph and featuring standout performances by Basil Joseph and Grace Antony, ‘Nunakkhuzhi’ has captivated audiences with its engaging blend of comedy and drama, continuing to impress viewers across ZEE5 following its successful theatrical run.

‘Nunakuzhi’ is a witty comedy-drama centered on Eby (Basil Joseph), a carefree man-child who, after his father’s death, struggles to manage the family business while obsessing over his newlywed wife. When a private video of them is seized during an Income Tax raid, Eby’s frantic attempts to retrieve it entangle him in a series of chaotic and comedic misadventures with a diverse cast of quirky characters.

Director Jeethu Joseph expressed, “The success of Nunakkhuzhi on ZEE5 has been great, and unveiling this grand poster is truly a surreal moment for us. We are absolutely over the moon, about reaching 100 million streaming minutes, a milestone we hadn’t anticipated. Having the Minister of Education & Labour of Kerala, V Shivankutty to witness this celebration makes it even more special. This achievement reflects the hard work and passion of our incredible team, and I am thrilled that Nunakkhuzhi continues to connect with ZEE5’s audiences in such a meaningful way.”

Actor Basil Joseph mentioned, “The journey of Nunakuzhi has been nothing short of extraordinary. From its successful theatrical run to its phenomenal success on ZEE5, this film has been a true labor of love for all of us. Striking 100 million streaming minutes on ZEE5 is like a dream come true and I am immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished and grateful to ZEE5’s audience for embracing Nunakkhuzhi and Eby’s character with such enthusiasm and love. This milestone reflects the efforts and dedication of the entire team, and I am ecstatic to celebrate this success with all of you.”

Sapno ki udaan.. ab sab ke liye! Watch Akshay Kumar starrer Sarfira on Disney+ Hotstar on 11th October,2024

Mumbai, 27th September, 2024: One man, One dream and a billion lives! Get ready to fly as Disney+ Hotstar brings to you Sarfira – an inspiring and heartwarming story of a man daring to dream big for the people of India. Traveling in flights is luxury for some and a dream for the rest, when Vir Mahtre (Akshay Kumar) devises a business plan to make flights accessible to the common people of the nation, he starts a revolution in hindsight.

The striking story stars the ever-empowering Akshay Kumar along with the iconic Paresh Rawal and the gorgeous Radhikka Madan in pivotal roles. So, prepare for take-off as this inspiring tale – Sarfira will release on 11th October, 2024 exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar.

Elaborating on the film, Akshay Kumar said, “Sarfira is a film about a Sarfira insaan who dared to dream big and work for it tirelessly. I’m a firm believer that when a dream transforms into ambition, nothing can stop it from coming true and that’s what I respected about Vir’s dream; it became a passion-driven cause that brought about a change for the common people. I like to be a part of stories that inspire and amount to a bigger picture, Sarfira is one such story where I saw my inner beliefs being a part of the script. Sarfira is releasing on 11th October, 2024 on Disney+ Hotstar and I’m looking forward to seeing the power of a dream that inspires the world!”

Talking about the film, Radhikka Madan said,”Sarfira is a powerful story of determination and the courage to chase your dreams. Playing Rani, a character full of confidence and strength, was a deeply personal experience for me. I’m so grateful for the audience’s warm reception of my performance. Akshay sir’s portrayal brought incredible energy to the film. With Disney+ Hotstar, I’m excited for even more viewers to connect with our journey and the important message behind it.”

How After-School Programs Offer a Holistic Approach to Learning Beyond the Classroom

By-Sanamdeep Chadha Director and Promoter of Genesis Global School

How After-School Programs Offer a Holistic Approach to Learning Beyond the Classroom

In today’s digitally savvy world, education is no longer confined to the classroom, new forms of

devices are taking over and students are becoming dependent on them. After-school programs are recognized as an integral part of a child’s development, offering a holistic approach that complements formal learning. These programs are designed to foster personal growth, creativity, and collaboration, all while providing structure and support beyond regular school hours. Let’s explore how after-school programs promote learning beyond the classroom in multifaceted ways.

Engaging Platform to Learn a New Skill
After-school programs offer a dynamic environment for students to explore new interests and hone different skills in both sports and Performing arts. Whether it’s music, art, shooting, basketball or horse riding. These programs provide a space for children to engage in hands-on learning experiences that may not be part of the traditional school curriculum. This is particularly beneficial as it helps students discover their passions and strengths, potentially igniting lifelong interests. The flexibility to choose an area of interest ensures that learning is both engaging and enjoyable.

Productive Engagement Away from Screens
With the increasing reliance on digital devices, screen time is a major concern for parents and educators alike. After-school programs offer a constructive alternative, allowing children to be actively engaged in real-world activities. This helps reduce the hours spent in front of screens while encouraging physical activity, creativity, and collaboration. These programs promote healthier habits and allow children to interact with their environment in a more meaningful way.

Building Social Connections
One of the biggest benefits of after-school programs is the opportunity they provide for building social connections. Students get to interact with peers from different classes and age groups, helping them develop social skills and forge friendships. Teamwork, communication, and collaboration are often key components of these programs, which foster a sense of community and belonging. Such interactions build emotional intelligence and prepare students for future social and professional environments.

Helpful Program for Working Professional Parents
For working parents, after-school programs provide a sense of relief, knowing that their children are in a safe and productive environment. These programs extend the supervision and care beyond the regular school hours, ensuring that students remain engaged in activities rather than being left alone or spending excessive time in front of digital screens. Parents can focus on their work without worrying, knowing that their children are participating in structured and enriching activities.

Opportunity to Be a Part of the School Team
Many after-school programs are designed to foster teamwork through sports, debate clubs, and creative groups. By participating in these programs, students often get the chance to be a part of the school’s teams, be it in athletics, music bands, drama troupes, or other groups. These team-based activities not only teach discipline and teamwork but also boost students’ confidence by giving them a sense of accomplishment as they contribute to the success of their school.

Representation of School at Competition Level
Participation in after-school programs can also open doors for students to represent their school in local, regional, or even national competitions. This provides a unique platform for students to showcase their talents and compete at higher levels, fostering a spirit of excellence and friendly rivalry. The opportunity to represent the school in competitions builds pride, resilience, and a commitment to hard work and practice.

After-school programs go beyond academic support to offer a rich, multidimensional approach to learning and development. These programs help students build essential life skills, foster creativity, and ensure productive use of time, all while providing a structured environment for socialization and personal growth. For parents and students alike, the benefits of after-school programs are invaluable, making them an integral part of holistic education.

Soap Up Smarter: The Dos and Don’ts of Using Bar Soaps for Optimal Hygiene and Skin Health

By-Dr. Rishabh Raj Sharma, Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences College & Hospital (NIIMS)

When it comes to cleansing, bar soaps are a staple in many households. However, improper use and selection can compromise their effectiveness and even harm skin health. To get the most out of your bar soap, follow these simple guidelines.

The Correct Way to Use Bar Soaps

To maximize the benefits of bar soaps, follow these steps:

1. Wet your skin to create a receptive surface.
2. Lather up the soap to distribute its cleansing agents.
3. Gently apply the lather to your skin.
4. Rinse well to remove any soap residue.
5. Pat dry with a towel to prevent moisture loss.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Despite their simplicity, bar soaps can be misused, leading to reduced hygiene and effectiveness. Steer clear of these common mistakes:

– Using hot water, which can strip skin of natural oils.
– Failing to rinse properly, leaving soap residue to clog pores.
– Sharing soap, transferring bacteria and germs.
– Storing soap in wet areas, promoting bacterial growth.
– Using harsh soaps with irritating chemicals.

Targeting Specific Skin Concerns

Choose the right bar soap to address your skin type or concerns:

– For dry skin, opt for moisturizing soaps with glycerin, shea butter, or natural oils.
– For oily or acne-prone skin, select soaps with salicylic acid or tea tree oil.
– For sensitive skin, choose fragrance-free and hypoallergenic soaps with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.
– For eczema or psoriasis, use medicated soaps with colloidal oatmeal or hydrocortisone, as recommended by a dermatologist.

By following these guidelines and selecting the right bar soap, you can enjoy cleaner, healthier skin.

Arena Animation Baroda concludes power packed “New Age Careers for New India: PERSPECTIVES Tour 2024’

Baroda, September 26, 2024: Arena Animation, one of India’s leading animation institute in the country, is delighted to announce the successful conclusion of “New Age Careers for New India: PERSPECTIVE Tour 2024’ for the youth in Baroda. The seminar was held on September 25th & 26th, 2024, at Sayaji hotels, Baroda. This vibrant platform drew together luminaries from the media and entertainment industry to share their invaluable experiences and insights into the creation of captivating creative works. The event was attended by an over 400+ young aspirants and professionals across the city eager to learn and grow in this creative field, sparking an engaging exchange of ideas.

 ‘Perspectives’ provides a unique opportunity for participants to gain an insider’s view of the industry, marking a crucial moment for aspiring students. The event, known for attracting passionate participants year after year, hosted numerous students this year as well, who were interested in exploring careers in animation, VFX, multimedia, gaming and web design. Attendees were offered a series of thought-provoking sessions led by distinguished key opinion leaders alongside an insightful dive into the intricate processes behind top-tier animation, visual effects and filmmaking.

 Distinguished industry experts, including Mr. Raghavendra Rai, Founder Director, Identical Brains Studios and Mr. Deepesh Chourasiya, Head of Production, Whiteclap Studios inspired attendees with their invaluable industry insights and in-depth technical knowledge.

 Mr. Raghavendra Rai, Founder Director, Identical Brains Studios delivered a compelling session on “The Art of Seamless Integration in VFX: From Concept to Final Composite” welcoming the aspirants to the world of VFX.

 Mr. Deepesh Chourasiya, Head of Production, Whiteclap Studios offered an intriguing perspective on the production pipeline in Visual Effects and Movie making.

 The event received an overwhelming response from the attendees, who praised the depth and relevance of the presentations. The discussions highlighted the transformative impact of emerging technologies and offered actionable insights for students and young professionals.

 Mr. Sandip Weling, Chief Business Officer – Retail Business, Aptech Limited. “We are thrilled with the success of ‘New Age Careers for New India: PERSPECTIVES Tour 2024’. The event has truly set a benchmark on how we engage and envision the future of careers in India. I trust that the participation of key opinion leaders and the thought-provoking discussions and insights has immensely benefitted the aspirants keen to pursue new-age careers. Arena Animation is committed to equipping students with new-age skillsets and we urge the young aspirants/ prospects to walk-in to our centres to explore their talent and unleash their creative potential.”

 As the consumer increasingly gravitates towards superheroes and formidable creatures, India’s AVGC sector has witnessed unparalleled growth rates in recent years. According to the 24th annual Global Entertainment & Media Outlook 2023-2027 by PWC across 13 sectors in 53 territories, India’s Media & Entertainment industry is projected to grow at a 9.7% CAGR, reaching US$73.6 billion by 2027. This surge has attracted numerous international players seeking to tap into India’s talent pool for offshore service delivery.

 With a legacy spanning over 25 years, Arena Animation stands as a testament to excellence, fortified by strategic alliances, stellar faculty, and cutting-edge technological tools. The mission remains clear – to equip youth with industry-relevant skills and hone their creativity, build resilience, and encourage teamwork, enabling them to succeed in the workplace where they will have to meet deadlines, deliver presentations, and network with industry peers. Arena Animations remains committed in cultivating a pool of highly employable and successful professionals, ready to make their mark in the dynamic world of media and entertainment.