16, Dec 2024
3 new Indian consumer electronics brands that are revolutionising the space

With Innovation and originality as the core principles, India’s booming startup ecosystem is leading to the rise of numerous businesses irrespective of sector. These aspects are also becoming the catalyst for success and profitability in several industries, with the consumer electronics sector leading the charge. Coupled with the emergence of new-age technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud technologies and others, consumer electronics are transforming at a robust pace, adapting to shifting customer preferences and requirements as new developments surface.

Subsequently, as consumer electronics brands revolutionize the space by integrating innovation and new-age technologies, sectoral revenue is also witnessing an upward movement. A recent prominent report suggests that the revenue in the consumer electronics industry will be growing at an unprecedented 6.65% CAGR between 2024-2029, leading to an estimated market volume of over $9800 million at the end of the forecast period. Furthermore, total customers in the Indian consumer electronics market are expected to reach 235 million by 2029, achieving a user penetration rate of 16%, in contrast to a little over 12% presently. These aspects highlight the growing emphasis on inducting electronic appliances into the daily lives of Indian users, who are seeking premium yet affordable solutions that not only revolutionise how electronics are perceived currently but also raise the quality of their lives. Here are 3 consumer electronics businesses that successfully align with this paradigm shift, propelling innovatively towards reshaping the industry outlook.

1. OTEK

OTEK, a Bora Multicorp venture founded by Mr. Prashant Bora, MD and CEO, specialises in the design and manufacturing of innovative products, its products are designed in New York (USA). Driven by Mr. Bora’s visionary leadership, OTEK aims to expand its product portfolio and achieve a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 20-25% over the next decade. The company is equally committed to enhancing customer service and supporting its environmental responsibilities, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, innovative, and affordable products. These efforts are projected to contribute to a net revenue of INR 150 Cr by FY 2025-26. With a strong managerial framework and an expert boardroom, supported by a nationwide sales team, OTEK actively drives both offline and online sales channels.

The company’s goal is to enhance end-user productivity, creativity, and entertainment to ensure a healthier and happier life. Powered by innovative AI, sleek designs and intuitive interfaces, these Pune-based firm’s innovations combine user intuition and sustainability to create high-quality & affordable products — leading to a comprehensive change.

2. UBreathe

With worsening air pollution around the country, New Delhi-based startup UBreathe offers a unique perspective to Indians. This startup manufactures nature-based, responsibly sourced wood and recycled plastic to manufacture and assemble air purifiers. The products of UBreathe are tested and certified by IIT Ropar and use a unique breathing roots technology that amplifies air passability. Furthermore, UBreathe uses plants as an integral part of their air purifiers and places a special emphasis on maintaining the elegance of users’ homes irrespective of location. The UBreathe air purifiers are also equipped with an additional carbon filter and coco filter that offers extra filtration. UBreathe also provides additional accessories with its air purifier products, such as adapter and power cords, plant kit, water level indicator and others. This Indian brand’s air purifiers are not only affordable but offer a unique value proposition to first-time users in a bid that transforms the electronics space.

3. Punta India

This Kolkata-based computer peripherals and consumer electronics brand is rapidly becoming a trustworthy brand in India’s competitive electronics market. Originally a part of Punta Global, Punta India offers computer accessories like cabinets, keyboards, mouse, webcams, Motherboards, Adapters and many more. This brand also offers audio products such as headphones, earphones, subwoofers and trolley speakers. The brand’s primary objective is to offer users state-of-the-art products at affordable prices to enhance their digital experience. The brand greatly emphasises customer satisfaction, and experience and aligns promptly with their requirements, offering a significant after-sales service. Its products are designed with quality and durability in mind, and more importantly, actively integrate recycling as one of its foundational principles.

16, Dec 2024
Delhi’s women artists to take center stage at ‘Vama’ art exhibition

New Delhi, December 16, 2024: Sahitya Kala Parishad,Government of NCT, Delhi, announces the upcoming art exhibition Vama: Showcasing Women Artists from Delhi . This eight-day celebration will bring together 20 talented women artists from Delhi . The exhibition, curated to empower and showcase the artistic brilliance of women, will be inaugurated by Shri Saurabh Bharadwaj, Hon’ble Minister of Art, Culture & Languages, on 14th December 2024, at 6:00 p.m.

Featuring a stellar lineup of 20 eminent women artists, the exhibition includes the works of Annu Gupta, Dipa Potwray, Durga Kainthola, Kanchan Chander, Nilanjana Nandi, Pratibha Singh, Rashmi Chaudhary, Sakshi Bajaj, Seema Mohaley, Megha Madan, Neetu, Aditi Aggarwal, Kavita Nayyar, Rashmi Khurana, Richa Navani, Sushma Yadav, Shampa Sircar Das, Vandana Kumari, Vandana Rakesh, and Vasundhara Tewari Broota. Each artist brings a unique perspective and narrative, creating a captivating blend of tradition and contemporary styles.

The Vama platform aims to provide a space where women artists can display their unique perspectives,creativity, and artistic skills, fostering inclusivity and representation in the art world. With artworks ranging across various mediums, the event seeks to inspire conversations about women’s contributions to contemporary art.

The exhibition will be open to visitors daily from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m ., offering art lovers, critics, and patrons an opportunity to immerse themselves in the creative journey of these remarkable women.

16, Dec 2024
BEOX Professional Makes its Mark in India with Premium Hair care Products

BEOX Professional, a renowned Brazilian brand in the hair care industry, is thrilled to announce its launch in India, bringing its premium range of salon-quality products to one of the world’s most vibrant beauty markets. By seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with natural ingredients, BEOX Professional offers innovative solutions designed to meet the diverse requirements of various hair types, making it the preferred choice for hairstylists and beauty enthusiasts worldwide.

The debut in India highlights the cultural warmth and similarities between Brazil and India, such as shared values of celebration and beauty. Both nations boast rich traditions, diverse identities, and vibrant communities, making this launch a natural fit. BEOX sees this launch as an opportunity to build connections that foster mutual growth, reflecting the potential for collaboration between two flourishing markets.

The brand’s portfolio spans colouring, treatments, smoothening, curls, finishing, home care, and specialized products for blonde hair. Designed to address concerns like frizz control and nourishment, these solutions combine quality and sustainability to empower individuals with radiant, healthy hair.

Speaking about the launch, the head of Beox India, Mr. Huzaifa Mandsaurwala said “We are thrilled to bring BEOX Professional to India, a market that deeply values innovation and quality in hair care. As a brand recognized globally for its commitment to excellence, we are excited to offer Indian consumers and professionals access to our premium range of products. With solutions tailored to diverse hair needs, we look forward to empowering individuals across India to achieve healthier, more radiant hair while upholding sustainable practices.”

BEOX Professional not only addresses the needs of salon professionals but also provides individuals with eco-conscious, high-performance products. By prioritizing sustainable practices in product development and manufacturing, the brand aligns with the growing demand for environmentally responsible hair care solutions.

Experience the perfect harmony of innovation and nature with BEOX Professional, now available in India. Crafted for all hair types, these salon-quality products ensure flawless results every time, helping you embrace the confidence of healthy, radiant hair.

16, Dec 2024
IIT Mandi Celebrates Gita Jayanti with ‘Gitanushilanam 2024’

Mandi, December 16th, 2024; IIT Mandi hosted ‘Gitanushilanam 2024’ on the auspicious occasion of Gita Jayanti, commemorating the advent of the Bhagavad Gita, a timeless scripture that has inspired humanity for millennia. Organized by the IKSMHA Center (Indian Knowledge System and Mental Health Applications), this celebration aimed to highlight the relevance of the Gita in addressing contemporary challenges and fostering moral, cultural, and spiritual well-being.

The event embodied the spirit of ‘Gitanushilanam,’ derived from the Sanskrit words ‘Gita’ (Bhagavad Gita) and ‘Anushilanam’ (contemplation and practice). It emphasized integrating the Gita’s teachings into daily life by promoting adherence to Dharma, following the principles of Bhakti Yoga, and embracing the path of surrender to Lord Krishna as the ultimate means to attain harmony, purpose, and liberation.

The IKSMHA Center, dedicated to leveraging Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) for mental health and self-development, views the Gita as a beacon for cultivating resilience, emotional stability, and ethical leadership. By celebrating Gita Jayanti, the center aims to encourage a positive mindset and deeper connection to universal values rooted in Indian wisdom.

The program began with a soulful recitation of Chapter 15 of the Bhagavad Gita, followed by a lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing the dispelling of ignorance through the light of knowledge. Performances included the Gita Mahatmya recitation, celebrating the scripture’s unparalleled spiritual significance, along with melodious renditions, cultural dances, and yoga performances that creatively depicted the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. The event also featured a shadow drama, bringing the Gita’s philosophical essence to life through an interplay of light and darkness. The program also showcased a video presentation of Gitanushilanam 2024, highlighting how thousands of children participated enthusiastically in Bhagavad Gita-based contests over the past few weeks, showcasing their creativity and understanding of the Gita’s teachings.

IPS Soumya Sambasivan, the Chief Guest, lauded the initiative and its focus on blending culture with education. She remarked, “The Bhagavad Gita is a profound guide for mental well-being and self-discovery. Teachers play a pivotal role in inspiring students to shift their focus from life-threatening addictions to life-affirming principles of Krishna Consciousness. By sowing the seeds of Bhakti, they uphold moral and human values while imparting the essence of Dharma.”

She further highlighted the Gita’s enduring relevance, quoting its assurance in 9.31, ‘na me bhakta pranashyati’ (My devotee is never lost) and its ultimate teaching in 18.66, ‘sarva dharman parityajya,’ which emphasizes liberation through surrender. Drawing attention to the strength of women, she noted, “In Vibhuti Yoga (chapter 10), the Bhagavad Gita celebrates women as embodiments of divine energy, capable of transforming society through their adherence to Dharma.”

The celebration engaged over 2,000 schoolchildren from across the Mandi district in contests like the Bhagavad Gita Quiz, Shloka Recitation, Essay Writing, and Art Competition, with 700 students participating in today’s event. The following schools participated in the festivities: Mind Tree School, GSSS Baggi, Swami Vivekananda School, Boys School GSSS, Primary School, Girls School GSSS, SVM, KV School, DAV Khaliyar, ITI, Takshila School, Hillock School, DAV NerChowk, GSSS Kataula, GSSS Kamand, GSSS Kathindi, USV School, GSSS Tihri, GSSS Nissu, Genius School, and Indus Global School.

The day concluded with a heartfelt awards ceremony, recognizing the outstanding talent of young participants, and reflecting on the enduring relevance of Gita’s teachings in modern times.

16, Dec 2024
St. Joseph’s School Celebrates a Decade of Transformation & Impact with “La Feria” Carnival

Bengaluru, December 2024 – St. Joseph’s School, located at 23, Vittal Mallya Road, Bengaluru, is delighted to announce La Feria, a vibrant two-day celebration of diversity, art, and culture, taking place on 19th and 20th December 2024. This special event commemorates the Decennial year of the institution and aims to support meaningful initiatives in education, health, and community empowerment in North Karnataka.

La Feria promises a weekend of unforgettable experiences, combining global culture with noble causes.

Proceeds from La Feria will directly contribute to: Scholarships for underprivileged and HIV-affected students. Medical care for differently-abled children

Rev. Fr. Rohan D. Almeida, Principal of St. Joseph’s School, warmly invites you to join in this joyous celebration. He shares, “La Feria is not just a celebration of our achievements but also an opportunity to continue making a meaningful difference. Together, let us reflect on our journey and look ahead to an even brighter future.”

Join us at La Feria 2024 and be part of this remarkable event, blending entertainment, culture, and community impact.

16, Dec 2024
Celebrating 25 Years of Empowerment: The Laryngectomee Society Celebrates a Milestone of Resilience

Hyderabad, December 16, 2024: The Laryngectomee Society, a pioneering self-help rehabilitation group for throat cancer survivors, recently celebrated its 25th Anniversary with a heartfelt function at the Apollo Medical College Auditorium, today, Founded in 1999, the Society has grown into a beacon of hope, offering comprehensive rehabilitation for those who have undergone a laryngectomy—a life-altering surgery involving the removal of the larynx (voice box).

The event brought together laryngectomees and their families in a moving celebration of resilience and camaraderie. Stories of determination, recovery, and empowerment were shared, highlighting the Society’s transformative impact over the years.

Dr. Umanath Nayak, Senior Consultant Head & Neck Surgeon at Apollo Hospitals and founder of the Laryngectomee Society, reflected on the journey: “When we started this initiative 25 years ago, our aim was simple—create a platform where patients could find strength in community, regain their confidence, and rediscover their voices. Today, seeing how far we’ve come is immensely gratifying. This Society is not just a support group; it is a testament to the human spirit and the power of rehabilitation.”

Rehabilitation Through Compassion and Innovation
Dr. Nayak, along with his dedicated team, has worked tirelessly to ensure that patients regain more than just their voices—they reclaim their dignity and quality of life. The Society’s rehabilitation program emphasizes speech restoration, with an impressive success rate of providing nearly 90% of members with intelligible speech. Beyond this, the team addresses physical, social, psychological, and vocational needs, making the program one of the most holistic in the country.

The anniversary event paid tribute to the efforts of the multidisciplinary rehabilitation team, which includes speech therapists, counselors, oncologists, and volunteers who have been instrumental in supporting patients.

“This achievement is not just ours but belongs to every patient who had the courage to start afresh, every family member who offered unwavering support, and every member of our team who worked relentlessly to restore lives,” added Dr. Nayak.

The anniversary celebrations featured inspiring testimonials from laryngectomees, an overview of the Society’s journey, and a felicitation of the rehabilitation team. The event underscored the importance of initiatives like the Laryngectomee Society in providing a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to cancer rehabilitation.

16, Dec 2024
Happiest Health Empowers Families to Balance Tech and Togetherness at Get Set, Grow Summit 2024

Bengaluru, Saturday 16th December 2024: Happiest Health hosted the second edition of Get Set, Grow Summit 2024 with a special theme on ‘Digital Detox’ aimed at promoting gadget free moments for children in the age group of 5 to 12 years and drawing attention towards screen free family time to strengthen the bond. The event was packed with interactive workshops, expert talks, educational activities fun filled activities all aimed at helping families learn about nutrition, physical health, and mental wellness in a collaborative and engaging setting.

The Summit focused on ‘Digital Detox Edition’ which highlighted the importance of screen-free family time through interactive and fun sessions for children, providing practical tools to help families navigate the challenges of balancing technology use with quality, tech-free moments. 500 Participants discovered strategies for developing healthier habits, enhancing family bonds, and promoting overall well-being through series of engaging sessions tailored for kids.

Unveiling the second edition Get Set Grow, Mr Anindya Chowdhury, CEO of Happiest Health – Knowledge and Diagnostics “This summit has been a wonderful initiative to remind families of the joy and importance of being present for each other without digital distractions. Events like this not only foster stronger family connections but also equip us with valuable tools to prioritize health and well-being in an increasingly digital age. I hope this inspires many more families to take small, meaningful steps towards a balanced lifestyle. In today’s fast-paced world, it is crucial to carve out moments of togetherness that strengthen bonds and enrich lives. This summit has highlighted how simple, mindful changes can make a profound difference in creating harmony within families, encouraging us all to rethink our daily choices and commitments.”

Panel Discussion on “Digital Detox: Challenges and Way Forward -Featuring doctors and other experts with insightful discussions on limiting screen time & promoting family bonding was conducted.

Dr Santosh Kumar, Senior Consultant and Lead – Paediatrician & Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Bengaluru, said “ In the digital age, fostering strong parent-child communication is vital to counteract the effects of excessive screen time. Gadgets reduce children’s ability to read non-verbal cues, empathize, and engage in imaginative play—essential social and emotional development skills. Parents should model healthy behavior by setting aside devices and creating an environment rich in meaningful interactions. Activities like storytelling, arts, or family discussions build emotional resilience and motivation. Importantly, children imitate adults, so demonstrating balance and moderation is key. Effective communication and positive reinforcement can help children break screen dependency and focus on activities that nurture their well-being.”

Dr Arvind Shenoi-Clinical Director- Neonatology and Paediatric, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Bengaluru,“Today’s children are navigating three distinct worlds—the real, the dream, and the virtual. The cyber world, while offering opportunities, also disrupts critical areas of life by stealing time from real-world experiences and much-needed sleep. This imbalance leads to physical and emotional challenges, including sleep disturbances, obesity, and reduced parental authority. Parents must actively regulate screen time, ensuring children do not lose sight of essential real-world interactions. By fostering meaningful relationships and encouraging play outside the digital realm, parents can help their children grow into emotionally and physically healthier individuals in this tech-driven age.”

Dr Sowmya R, Senior Consultant, Department of Paediatric Ophthalmology, Strabismus & Neuro-ophthalmology at Sankara Eye Hospital, Bengaluru, “Prolonged screen exposure in children, especially under the age of three, poses serious risks to their eye health, including increased chances of developing myopia, accommodative issues, and eye strain. It’s critical to ensure a balanced approach by limiting screen time and encouraging activities that stimulate natural vision development, such as outdoor play. Early signs like squinting, headaches, or difficulty focusing should not be ignored. Parents must be vigilant about creating healthy screen habits and seeking timely medical advice to prevent long-term complications. Protecting your child’s eyes today will pave the way for a healthier, clearer vision tomorrow.”

16, Dec 2024
Dancer Geeta Chandran receives NRITYA CHOODAMANI title

Krishna Gana Sabha, Chennai’s premiere Cultural organization, conferred its most prestigious NRITYA CHOODAMANI honour on Delhi-based Bharatanatyam dancer, Vidushi (Padmashri) Geeta Chandran.

According to the Sabha, the NRITYA CHOODAMANI represents an apex honour bestowed upon an exemplary artist who has dedicated her life to the promotion of her chosen art form and has contributed significantly to the preservation and upliftment of the art and to society at large through her performances and sustained commitment.

The award was presented to Geeta Chandran on 13 December 2024 during the glittering inaugural ceremony of the 68th Marghazi Mela at the Krishna Gana Sabha’s auditorium in Chennai. Under the Presidentship of Shri Nalli Kuppuswamy, Chief Guest Dr. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals, conferred the honour on Geeta Chandran.

In her spirited felicitation, Dr. Anita Ratnam, noted artpreneur, warmly congratulated Geeta Chandran. Sabha luminaries Y. Prabhu and Saashwathi Prabhu also congratulated Geeta.

An enviable presence of noted Gurus, dancers, scholars and artists added glamour to the award ceremony.

Celebrated as one of the leading figures in Indian classical dance across the world today, Geeta Chandran is also a highly accomplished Dance Guru, Scholar, Choreographer, Media Personality and Carnatic Vocalist, and she harnesses all these energies to “endance” the universe with Bharatanatyam.

She is Founder-President of NATYA VRIKSHA, NEW DELHI, where since 1991, she has fostered art education, mentoring and development of young artists. Geeta’s holistic pedagogy integrates classical dance learning with other diverse disciplines and values.

She champions tradition, transcending linguistic barriers, and creating meaningful choreographies contributing to wider societal dialogue.

As an arts administrator, mentor and philanthropist, Geeta supports various causes, is greatly committed to arts education in formal curricula, and leads significant social campaigns.

Her dynamic performances reflect her vision of an interconnected, inclusive, and transformative cultural experience.

In October 2024, she marked 50 years of engagement with Bharatanatyam since her arangetram in 1974.

In her five-decade career committed to Dance, Geeta has been honoured with the Padmashri (2007); the Central Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2016); and the Tagore National Fellowship (2017-2018). The NRITYA CHOODAMANI is the latest honour in her enviable bouquet of awards and honours.

16, Dec 2024
Ananya Panday Shines on the December 2024 Cover of Grazia India, Reflects on Her Amazing Year

Ananya Panday is a Mumbai girl through and through, and it shows. Her quintessential Bombay vibe is thoroughly reflected in the cover interview and highlights her journey of resilience and accomplishment. Photographed at the historic David Sassoon Library, the cover shoot effortlessly captures the charm of its gothic architecture.

In a candid conversation, Ananya opens up about a year marked by both challenges and growth. She reflects on how she navigated the challenges she faced, and her honest revelations offer a glimpse into her evolving journey, one that is driven by authenticity and resolve.

Expressing her excitement over her recent success in the OTT space, she says, “With CTRL and Call Me Bae coming out, I feel that people are finally taking me a lot more seriously as an actor. I shot both the projects last year, so this year has been all about watching the fruits of my labour come to life.”

Reflecting on her journey, Ananya shares how 2024 has been a turning point for her career and personal growth, “I feel that I have now come into my own. I feel a lot more comfortable in my skin, and the year has been a homecoming of sorts.”

When asked about being featured on a fuljhadi (sparkler) packet, she quips, “I don’t want to say that seeing my face on the fuljhadi packet was the highest point of my year, but it’s right there at the top with the rest of the things.”

Redefining the idea of being a ‘star’ in 2024, Ananya emphasises, “People want you to be a star, but at the same time, they also want you to be relatable. So, I think everyone is stuck between finding the right balance between being who they are and being who the audience wants them to be.”

16, Dec 2024
FOSTIIMA Business School Hosts MARGDARSHAK 3.0, Celebrating HR Excellence with Dr. Shashi Tharoor

16 December, New Delhi: FOSTIIMA Business School, an AICTE-approved PGDM college in Delhi NCR, hosted the MARGDARSHAK 3.0 Awards for renowned HR professionals in honor of the founding faculty of IIM-Ahmedabad. Dr. Shashi Tharoor was invited as the chief guest of this memorable evening, along with the guests of honor, Mr. SY Siddiqui, Mr. Kiran Karik, Mr. Rajiv Dubey, and Mr. Dhruv Prakash.

The ceremony was attended by a distinguished advisory council, corporate luminaries, and senior professionals from organizations such as Makemytrip, KPMG, Blue Pi Consulting, and others whose extensive and varied experience made it a historic event. The MARGDARSHAK 3.0 Awards was a remarkable experience with winners in 11 categories where CHROs and senior HR professionals of renowned companies came together to be recognized and rewarded for their great work in their respective fields.

Addressing to all the guests & participants, Dr. Shashi Tharoor said, “I am thrilled to be part of the third edition of the FOSTIIMA Business School’s MARGDARSHAK Awards, established four years ago in honor of the founding faculty of the esteemed Indian Institute of Management. The core objective of an MBA degree remains to deepen the understanding of business dynamics across industries, market mechanisms, and the global economy. India, now emerging as a global hub for entrepreneurship, proudly holds the position of the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem. With over 140,000 startups and more than 140 unicorns in leading sectors like FinTech, e-commerce, and healthcare, their combined valuation exceeds $500 billion.”

MBA education is not just about acquiring knowledge—it’s about embracing the ethos of leadership, a quality emphasized by one of today’s awardees and central to FOSTIIMA’s mission. Today, MBA graduates have an abundance of career opportunities. Beyond seeking jobs, many are leaping to create jobs and drive innovation as entrepreneurs.” Dr. Tharoor added.

On the success of the MARGDARSHAK 3.0, Mr. Anil Somani, Chairman of FOSTIIMA Business School, Delhi, said, “It’s our honor to welcome all of you as our distinguished guests to this felicitation ceremony of the MARGDARSHAK 3.0. FOSTIIMA, an acronym for Friends of 73 and was founded by seven alumni of IIM Ahmedabad. The management of FOSTIIMA is also run by alumni of IIM-A. We started FOSTIIMA with the objective of giving back because we realized that we owe our success to our alma mater, i.e., the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, and the value of work by founding faculty. An institution is remembered by each alumni, but faculty is often forgotten. So as a mark of tribute to this faculty, we started the MARGDARSHAK Awards with this noble intent. The MARGDARSHAK Awards are unique in the sense that one institution is honoring the memory of the faculty of another parent institution, which makes these awards different. The jury deliberates over every candidate and makes it very certain that only the deserving candidates are given an award. Our advisory council is the senior and expert HR professionals who have guided us throughout the journey of the MARGDARSHAK Awards and also provided required inputs to the jury.”