29, Sep 2023
Grand Mercure Agra Fatehabad Road, in the historic city of Agra, opens its doors
AGRA, 29th September 2023 – Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, is pleased to announce the grand inauguration of Grand Mercure Agra—a sophisticated property comprising 168 meticulously designed rooms. Nestled in the heart of Agra, this unique gem offers an unrivalled vista of the Taj Mahal. Grand Mercure Agra stands as a testament to uncompromising excellence in hospitality, promising an unparalleled experience in one of the world’s most iconic destinations.
Strategically located on Fatehabad Road, Grand Mercure Agra lies within a brief, awe-inspiring drive from the Taj Mahal, enveloping guests in the rich tapestry of Agra’s cultural heritage. The hotel showcases a trio of exceptional dining venues: Lattice, an all-day dining establishment that tempts with a lavish buffet and à la carte culinary delights; Bello-Italiano, a haven for aficionados of authentic Italian cuisine; and Sky Grill, a rooftop sanctuary that grants an ethereal perspective of the Taj Mahal—an enchanting backdrop for indelible dining memories. Additionally, a Brew Café awaits to gratify discerning coffee connoisseurs.
For a variety of events and gatherings, the hotel boasts an array of banquet spaces, headlined by the Grand Crystal Ballroom, capable of accommodating up to 500 esteemed guests, complemented by two fully equipped meeting rooms. Guests can rejuvenate in the rooftop swimming pool, set against the Taj Mahal’s mesmerizing backdrop, pursue their wellness goals at the state-of-the-art fitness center, and partake in profound rejuvenation at Nirvana Spa. Grand Mercure Agra embodies the pinnacle of sophistication and hospitality, promising an unforgettable sojourn.
Mr. Puneet Dhawan, Senior Vice President of Accor India and South Asia, said, “Agra stands as a city steeped in profound historical significance, and it is with great pride that we unveil the Grand Mercure establishment within its borders. This momentous occasion reaffirms Accor’s unwavering dedication to providing unparalleled hospitality experiences while fortifying our foothold in the vibrant landscape of India.”
Mr. Vivek Mahajan, General Manager of Grand Mercure Agra, added, “Our hotel is more than just a destination; it’s a testament to exceptional service, and a gateway to discover the beauty of Agra. Every guest who walks through our doors will experience the essence of Agra’s rich history and vibrant culture, reimagined through the lens of unparalleled comfort and unmatched service. Grand Mercure Agra is a reflection of Accor’s dedication to providing contemporary travellers with premium comforts and cultural reconnections. It invites guests to experience the uniqueness of the local culture, from iconic dishes to cherished rituals.”
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- By Rabindra
29, Sep 2023
Canara Bank raises Rs 5000 crore in Long Term Infrastructure Bond, Series I Bonds 2023-24
Canara Bank in its maiden issuance of Long Term Infrastructure Bonds has raised Rs. 5,000 crore, at a coupon rate of 7.54% per annum. The issue received overwhelming response from investors, with bids for more than Rs. 14,180 crore against a base issue size of Rs 1,000 crore and green shoe option of Rs. 4,000 crore.
The Bank’s Long Term Infrastructure Bonds are rated as “AAA/Stable” by CARE Ratings Limited and India Ratings & Research Ltd.
29, Sep 2023
Ambassador, New Delhi-IHCL SeleQtions crafts a memorable experience for dogs of the Capital with ‘Pet Talks’
New Delhi, 29 September 2023: The picturesque setting of Lutyens’ Lawns at Ambassador, New Delhi-IHCL SeleQtions transformed into a canine paradise, where wagging tails and pet parents united for a truly memorable experience with the hotel’s latest edition of ‘Pet Talks’ in association with Doggie Bazaar followed by a ‘Sundowner Pool Party’ for the furry friends.
The ‘Pet Talks Session’ featured an enlightening panel discussion for the paw-parents hosted by esteemed experts in the field of pet care and behavior, including Dr. Narendra Gandhi, a distinguished veterinarian; Ms. Geeta Shedhmani, the Founder of Friendicoes; Mr. Adnan Khan, an acclaimed behaviorist and the Founder of K 9 School; and Mr. Sanjeev Kumar, a renowned groomer and the Founder of Scooby Scrub, took the stage. The session provided insights into various aspects of pet care, training and well-being while reinforcing the importance of responsible pet ownership.
Speaking on the occasion, Akshat Gupta, General Manager, Ambassador, New Delhi-IHCL SeleQtions said, “At Ambassador-IHCL SeleQtions, we believe that our guests come in all shapes and sizes, and some even have tails! It’s not just about being a pet-friendly hotel; it’s about our commitment to providing an inclusive and luxurious experience for all and this event is no exception. We are also happy to announce our latest initiative – ‘Outdoors at Yellow Brick Road’, a pet-friendly restaurant area. We look forward to welcoming all pets and pet parents.”
The lush lawns came alive with the joyous celebration of our four-legged companions as the dogs and their doting parents revelled in a day filled with exciting activities. The Doggie Pool Zone saw happy tails splashing and frolicking while the Doggie Play Area & Agility Zone became a hub of excitement, with dogs showcasing their agility and engaging in playful interactions. To cater to the needs of the pets, the event offered Free Doggie Grooming and Veterinary Checkup services, allowing pet parents to pamper their beloved companions while ensuring their health and well-being.
29, Sep 2023
University of Melbourne launches Global Alumni Ambassadors Program
Bengaluru , 29th September 2023: The University of Melbourne, Australia’s leading university and ranked 14th globally, has launched its Alumni Network and Melbourne Global Alumni Ambassadors Program in India as part of a week-long series of events to deepen engagement with students and stakeholders across the country.
The University’s Indian alumni cohort is one of the largest global alumni communities residing outside of Australia. The India Alumni Network and Ambassadors program will provide new opportunities for local alumni to connect with each other, expand their networks and grow community engagement initiatives across several cities within India.
The program was launched during the University’s senior academic engagement delegation to India in September, led by the University of Melbourne Provost, Professor Nicola Phillips. Professor Phillips, the standing deputy to the Vice-Chancellor and the Chief Academic Officer of the University, scheduled her first institutional visit to India as Provost to coincide with a number of important education partnership meetings and celebrations.
“The University of Melbourne takes great pride in the strong partnerships developed in India and it has been my privilege to see for myself the mutual benefit, capability build, and impact we are creating together,” said Professor Phillips.
During the launch of the Ambassadors Program and addressing a major cohort of India-based University alumni, Nick Blinco, Vice-President Advancement, Communications and Marketing noted the Australia-India connection is one of the most important international relationships for the University of Melbourne, which is committed to supporting India’s education agenda.
“We want to build a highly engaged and supportive Alumni community to share their wealth of knowledge and experience with Indian students and community stakeholders. The Global Ambassadors program will provide local alumni with new opportunities to connect with each other and for the University to have broader impact.” Mr Blinco said.
During the delegation, University alumni and academics have been meeting with prospective students at a series of events across Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore to provide opportunities to learn more about research and learning at the University. This senior Faculty cohort from the University has also been meeting with a number of research and higher education institutions to look at opportunities for capacity building and enablement across a number of industry sectors.
“With our multi-city event series, we are looking to showcase the distinctiveness of our unique curriculum and research expertise in collaboration with students, alumni and our higher education partner community in India,” said Mr Blinco.
The University of Melbourne has established many long-term partnerships with esteemed Indian varsities. The University’s ambition has been to partner across the learning lifecycle, and co-design and pilot programs that enable a scalable approach to provide as many Indian students as possible with education opportunities.
Earlier this year, the University launched a new Bachelor of Science Dual Degree program with four esteemed public and private university partners, SPPU, University of Madras, GITAM University and Shoolini University. The program enables students to complete their Bachelor of Science and a corresponding master’s degree, with the first two years spent at their home institution and then two years on campus in Melbourne.
The institution will also expand its presence in India next year, with the establishment of a Global Centre in Delhi to build on existing engagements in-country. The facility will enable the institution to showcase its full range of educational courses, research programs and host events such as lecture series, cultural performances and exhibitions.
29, Sep 2023
Locus Onboards SupplyChain Veteran Nagaraju KB As Advisor
Bengaluru, 29 September 2023: Locus, a market-leading dispatch management SaaS company, has announced the onboarding of Nagaraju KB (KBN), Ex-BigBasket’s Chief Customer Experience Officer, as a Strategic Advisor. KBN brings a wealth of experience and expertise in supply chain operations, logistics management, and customer engagement, which will further strengthen Locus’ commitment to delivering exceptional solutions to enterprises. In his role as an Advisor, Nagaraju will synergize with Locus’ product and strategy teams, infusing nuanced industry insights into the company’s offerings, thereby catalyzing its growth and reinforcing its market leadership.
Before joining Locus, KBN was part of the senior management team at Bigbasket for nearly a decade where he oversaw crucial customer-facing functions, including delivery operations and customer support, scaling the company with exceptional customer experience benchmarks. Earlier, he helmed TVS Logistics Services Ltd. as its Chief Operating Officer, orchestrating full-spectrum operations, driving business growth, and upholding customer satisfaction for their India sector. Before that, Nagaraju also held leadership roles at leading brands such as Lenovo India, HP India, DB Schenker, Wipro, etc.
“We are pleased to have KBN onboard. His steadfast support and guidance since our foundational partnership with BigBasket have been invaluable. As we strategize to amplify our industry footprint further globally, we foresee Nagaraju’s deep knowledge in logistics operations, and customer experience contributing significantly to our growth plans,” said Nishith Rastogi, Founder & CEO, Locus.
“My relationship with Locus has always been one of mutual growth and vision alignment. Now, as a Strategic Advisor, I’m eager to collaborate and combine my expertise with the Locus team to drive product innovation that elevates the entire logistics and supply chain ecosystem and also accelerates growth for Locus. The future holds immense potential, and I’m honored to be a part of it.”, said Nagaraju KB, Strategic Advisor.
29, Sep 2023
Chai Sutta Bar Expands its Footprint in Bengaluru with the Opening of Four New Outlets
New Delhi, 29th September 2023 – Chai Sutta Bar, the largest tea chain globally renowned for its unique concept and authentic tea experiences, is excited to announce the grand opening of four new outlets in the vibrant city of Bengaluru. The first outlet is located at Bangalore HSR Shop No 119/543, 7th cross, 24th Main Road, 1st Sector, HSR Layout, Agara, Bangalore – 560102 and the second one is Bangalore BTM Shop no 730,10th main 7th cross Mico layout, BTM Layout 2nd stage, Bangalore-560076.
The third outlet is situated at Shop No.4 Meadows East, Owners Court East, Kasavanahalli, Bengaluru – 560035, while the fourth outlet is located at No.67, CKB Layout, Kasavanahalli Village, Marathahalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560037. Chai Sutta Bar is gaining popularity in South India for its unique blend of tea and the warm inviting atmosphere it provides to its patrons. With the opening of these four new outlets in Bengaluru, the brand sets its sights on the vibrant South Indian market.
Anubhav Dubey, CEO of Chai Sutta Bar, expressed his enthusiasm about the brand’s expansion and said – “We are excited to bring the Chai Sutta Bar experience to Bengaluru and provide our customers with a taste of our delicious tea blends. South India is an important market for us because of its rich tea-drinking culture and diverse culinary traditions. We believe our brand can resonate with the people of Bengaluru, and we look forward to becoming a part of this vibrant community.”
Chai Sutta Bar would like to clarify that its name, although suggestive of smoking and a bar, does not promote the use of any harmful substances. The organization is committed to promoting a healthy lifestyle and works closely with local authorities in the areas where its outlets are situated to contribute positively to society.
Since its inception, Chai Sutta Bar has revolutionized the tea industry with its distinctive approach of serving tea in traditional kulhad cups, adding an authentic touch to the tea-drinking experience. Beyond its innovative concept, CSB’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has propelled its rapid expansion and contributed to its unparalleled success.
29, Sep 2023
SG Sports led by APL Apollo acquires Bengaluru Spartans ahead of Tennis Premier League 2023
New Delhi, 29th September 2023: In yet another venture into the sporting world, SG Sports led by APL Apollo has acquired ‘Bengaluru Spartans’, one of the eight teams that will be participating in the much-awaited Tennis Premier League- TPL 2023. With the ownership of this team with SG Sports Ventures now, it has been renamed as ‘Bengaluru SG Mavericks’ with ace tennis player Sania Mirza as its brand ambassador. A new logo of the team has also been launched. ‘Bengaluru SG Mavericks’ is a complete team with both men and women tennis players who will participate in the high-octane sporting event in December, in different formats like Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Mixed Doubles, and Men’s Doubles.
APL Apollo is a leading structural steel tubes brand with over 55% share in the domestic market. Its strategic arm, SG Sports, is committed to significantly impacting the sporting industry. Mr. Sanjay Gupta, Chief Managing Director (CMD), APL Apollo Tubes Ltd, has a huge passion for sports. This segment is dedicated to supporting and nourishing young sporting talent in India.
The fifth edition of the highly anticipated tournament is set to be held in December this year, with all the matches taking place at the Balewadi Stadium in Pune. The adrenaline-packed event is being organized under the auspices of All India Tennis Association (AITA) and Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association (MSLTA). The popularity of TPL can be gauged from the fact that many celebrities have been associated with it. Among them are Sonu Sood, Arjun Kapoor, Malaika Arora, Rakul Preet Singh, Leander Paes, and Sonali Bendre. Sania Mirza has been with the team for the last three years and this would be her fourth year supporting Bengaluru. Leander Paes also has been associated since the beginning of this league and makes sure he is there for all the matches.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the venture, Mr. Sanjay Gupta, CMD, APL Apollo Tubes Ltd. said, “This is a great opportunity for our company to associate with the spirit of sports that teaches us the most valuable lessons in life. We look forward to this association with Bengaluru Spartans which is Bengaluru SG Mavericks now and wish each player ahead of the trailblazing contest to be held in December this year. It is an also amazing start with this league sport that has been gaining more and more popularity in India. It will be great to witness that the new talent will rub shoulders with some of the most versatile tennis players in the world Overall, it is a great moment to associate the name of the brand with a sport that is popular worldwide.”
Tennis ace Sania Mirza, Brand Ambassador of Bengaluru SG Mavericks says, “I am thrilled to be a part of this exciting venture and obliged to SG Sports for choosing me as their brand ambassador. As a former tennis player and woman, I feel that India has a lot of potential in terms of sports and tennis has seen more and more interest from our young generation recently. Still, there are miles to go before we shine on the world stage in this sport and Tennis Premier League provides a brilliant opportunity for young and upcoming players to prove their mettle on the court. SG Sports is doing a great job in supporting such budding players and giving them an ideal platform where they can compete with top players and learn from their skills.”
The other participating teams in TPL 2023 include the Bengal Wizards, Mumbai Leon Army, Punjab Tigers, Pune Jaguars, Bengaluru Spartans, Delhi Binny’s Brigade, Hyderabad Strikers, and Gujarat Panthers. Pertinent to mention here that Indian tennis legend Leander Paes has recently announced his acquisition of a stake in the Bengal franchise.
As far as the TPL format is concerned, it has eight franchises that will play a total of five matches to qualify for the semi-final. Each match between two franchises will have a total of 4 games (Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Mixed Doubles and Men’s Doubles). Each match will be worth 20 points, thus there will be a total of 80 points at stake in each contest. Each team will play a total of 400 points (80 points x 5 matches) at the league stage. The top 4 teams in the points table will qualify for the semi-finals.
The Tennis Premier League (TPL), packages traditional tennis into a highly entertaining tournament to capture the imagination of fans. With an unorthodox format, it is set to be a tennis equivalent to the Indian Premier League and is returning for its fifth season this year. The league is poised to write yet another chapter in the annals of Indian tennis history, as fans eagerly await the start of TPL 2023. Sports outside of cricket are gaining more traction among Indian audiences. Tennis has a sizeable following in India, with close to 100 million viewers that watched the sport on TV last year.
29, Sep 2023
Dr. Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury launches book titled When Cure is Crime…
New Delhi, September 29, 2023: Hospitals and Institute of Integrated Medical Sciences (HIIMS) held a highly anticipated press conference at the LTG Auditorium in New Delhi on Thursday. The event marked the launch of book titled “When Cure is Crime,” authored by the renowned expert in integrated medical sciences, Dr. Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury.
The conference was honored by the presence of Shri Ashwini Upadhyay, Advocate, Supreme Court of India – ‘PIL Man of India,’ who shared his profound insights on the convergence of law and healthcare. Dr. Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury, a prominent figure in the realm of integrated medicine, shared with audience the remarkable case studies that showcased patients who have achieved freedom from Dialysis (CKD), Insulin (Diabetes Type 1), and Blood Transfusion (Thalassemia) through innovative and unconventional medical approaches. The event served as a platform for attendees to gain profound insights into revolutionary medical breakthroughs that challenge conventional healthcare norms.
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of Dr. Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury’s latest book, “When Cure is Crime.” This book promises to reshape our understanding of healthcare by shedding light on unconventional treatments that have successfully transformed the lives of patients. Dr. Chowdhury’s book offers a fresh perspective on the possibilities of medical science, challenging the status quo and inspiring a new wave of thought in the healthcare community.
Dr. Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury said, “Even though we got our freedom in 1947, we’re still too dependent on foreign medicines today. Medicines have become a big part of our lives, but it’s important to know that the laws about medicines, called the Drugs and Medicine Act, were made by the British a long time ago. Now, these laws are stopping us from using our own ancient Indian health methods, which can often work better than modern medicines. In my new book, I want to share this knowledge with all my patients who’ve gotten better using GRAD (Gravitational Resistance and Diet). In the book, you’ll find QR codes that you can scan to see detailed medical reports, proving that these methods really work. GRAD, which includes things like hot water treatments, has helped cure problems like chronic kidney disease and both types of diabetes. In the book, my patients, both young and old, share their stories of getting better, showing that true health freedom is possible.”
Acharya Manish Ji, founder of HIIMS, gathered attention over the importance of embracing traditional methods for treating various types of diabetes, citing a report that highlights the potential of such approaches. He also underscored the need for a transformative change in the education system, advocating for the compulsory inclusion of Ayurvedic studies in every school curriculum across India. He urged students to learn about Ayurveda, and he called upon the government to take action in making this vital knowledge accessible to all.
Shri Ashwini Upadhyay, Advocate, Supreme Court of India – ‘PIL Man of India,‘ echoed these sentiments, adding, “The existing Drugs and Magic Remedies Act of 1954 needs a thorough reevaluation. If the government doesn’t take the necessary steps, I am prepared to challenge it in court. Our healthcare system should embrace our traditional methods and provide them the recognition they deserve.”
He further emphasized, “Modern medicine, while effective in many ways, can sometimes be a destructive system. Naturopathy, with its focus on natural remedies and holistic approaches, should be promoted as the primary health treatment system.”
Dr. Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury made a compelling presentation, sharing his extensive research and the success stories of his patients who have experienced remarkable recoveries through unconventional medical methods. Attendees were provided with a unique opportunity to engage directly with the author during interviews and Q&A sessions, gaining a deeper understanding of his groundbreaking research and the transformative potential of integrated medicine.
29, Sep 2023
5K PET FRIENDLY RUN at Shriram Pristine Estates – Sat, 30th Sept 2023
Shriram Properties in association with The Bengaluru Marathon will be conducting a 5km ‘Tails & Trails’, a woof-friendly run ahead of the 10th Edition of the Bengaluru Marathon at Shriram Pristine Estates in Doddaballapura Main Road, Bengaluru on Saturday, September 30, 2023.
The Woof-Friendly Run is not just an event for passionate runners but also an open invitation to their beloved pets. It promises to be a heartwarming celebration of runners and their furry friends. This collective initiative aims to raise awareness about pet well-being, ensuring that every participant departs with a heart filled with knowledge and empathy.
29, Sep 2023
RAKEZ and ECI seminar equips exporters with strategies for international market success
Ras Al Khaimah, 29 September 2023: Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) teamed up with Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI), the UAE’s federal export credit company, to host an informative seminar on ‘Innovative Export Credit Solutions’. The partners aimed to equip businesses in the RAKEZ community, particularly those involved in export, with the strategies to navigate, evolve and succeed in the international marketplaces.
During the seminar, attendees were introduced to a wide range of topics from the mechanisms and drive global ambitions to safeguarding exports against uncertainties. The significance of export credit insurance solutions was also highlighted, with discussions around how businesses can unlock fresh avenues in the international trade spectrum. Additionally, the seminar featured the ECI experts showcasing their state-of-the-art solutions designed for export credit optimization and services for protection against non-payment.
The event’s main speaker Abdalla Al Hosani, Director of Commercial and Distribution at ECI, and his team delved into contemporary challenges – from the unpredictability of market conditions and geopolitical tensions to the hurdles presented by supply-chain disruptions and rapid technological evolutions. A central theme that resonated throughout was the importance of safeguarding a company’s cash flow, an asset that is simultaneously potent and vulnerable, but undeniably vital for ensuring business stability and fostering growth.
RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad said, “As a nurturing business powerhouse, our mission is to arm our community members with the acumen and resources they need to excel in today’s fast-evolving global economic setting. By joining forces with Etihad Credit Insurance to host engaging events, we are bolstering our commitment to uplift exporters and entrepreneurs in the RAKEZ ecosystem and backing them in their global endeavours.”
