20, Aug 2025
The Art of Not Shouting: Dressing with Intention

The Art of Not Shouting: Dressing with Intention

How Pleyne Redefines Presence in the Age of Excess

In a market driven by volume and visibility, Pleyne makes space for something rarer: the power of presence without performance.

Jaipur – Before you are seen, you are felt. Pleyne begins there—in the pause before the room turns, in the quiet confidence that does not seek validation. In a world that thrives on spectacle, Pleyne offers stillness. It does not compete. It does not declare. It endures.

This is not fashion for the moment—it is dressing for the man you already are, and who you are still becoming.

Clarity, Cut to Form

At Pleyne, restraint is not the absence of design—it is the result of discipline. Every line is considered. Every detail, refined. Logos are deliberately absent. Noise has no seat at the table. The garments do not ask to be seen; they wait to be noticed.

“We’re not interested in noise,” says Chirag Sogani, the founder of Pleyne. “We are interested in the pause. The way fabric follows you. The way the right sleeve placement can say more than any label. That is where the value is—in the quiet details.”

A collar that rests clean against the neck. A shoulder seam that falls with precision, not pressure. These subtleties anchor the presence of every garment.

Tailored with Intention

Each Pleyne piece is produced in limited numbers. Fabrics are selected not for trends, but for time—for how they feel after twenty wears, how they breathe in heat, how they soften to the rhythm of the body.

Silhouettes are inspired by clarity in Tokyo, structure in Milan, and flow in India. The result: clothing that moves with ease, without ever losing shape or substance.

A Space to Breathe

Pleyne offers an invitation to slow down. To reconnect with your own pace. Here, there are no chaotic collections or racks of redundancy. There is light, space, and quiet. Garments are placed, not packed. Time is given, not taken.

“This is for people who know themselves,” says Sogani. “Our clients are not trying to impress anyone. They have done the work. Now they want their wardrobe to reflect that.”

Built to Stay

Pleyne does not follow fashion calendars. It does not offer ‘newness’ for the sake of it. Instead, it presents carefully timed releases—pieces designed to remain relevant not just for seasons, but for years. They are made to live with you, not replace themselves.

“We aren’t in the business of replacement,” Sogani says. “We are here to offer clothing that becomes part of your rhythm. Something you reach for without hesitation. And feel more like yourself when you do.”

The Statement Is the Stillness

Pleyne is for those who understand that presence does not require volume. That attention earned in silence carries the most weight. These are not clothes built to impress others. They are made to reflect something more enduring: self-assurance.

They do not wear you. They reveal you.

20, Aug 2025
Paytm Founder to Appear on The Great Indian Kapil Show After Making Company Fully Indian and Profitable

Mumbai, 20th August 2025: Paytm founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma will feature on The Great Indian Kapil Show on Netflix, with the episode airing on 23rd August. The trailer for the episode dropped today as part of the latest telecast, confirming Sharma’s first-ever Netflix appearance.

Kapil sharma

The appearance comes shortly after Paytm transitioned to full Indian ownership and returned to profitability, a development that industry watchers describe as a defining moment for the fintech major.

This milestone follows Paytm Payments Services Ltd. (PPSL) receiving in-principle approval from the Reserve Bank of India to operate as a Payment Aggregator, a key regulatory nod for the company’s long-term growth.

Market observers note that Paytm remains India’s largest merchant payments platform for enterprises and MSMEs, with leadership in QR code payments, soundbox devices, and card machines, supported by a vast merchant network. Analysts widely credit Sharma with pioneering mobile payments in India, enabling millions of small businesses, street vendors, and large enterprises to accept digital transactions seamlessly.

Earlier this year, Sharma voluntarily surrendered shares worth approximately ₹492 crore to SEBI as part of a settlement, a move that underscored his commitment to resolving regulatory matters and ensuring compliance-first operations.

Sources tracking Paytm say the company’s recent turnaround reflects Sharma’s resilience and sharpened focus on compliance while driving innovation in payment solutions.

Industry analysts summed it up: “This is a symbolic moment — the founder who taught India how to make mobile payments is now celebrating the company’s revival and future growth on a platform that reaches millions of Indians.”

The Netflix episode is expected to highlight Sharma’s entrepreneurial journey and Paytm’s pivotal role in shaping India’s digital payments landscape. Observers say the timing underscores the brand’s renewed growth cycle, projecting confidence and reinforcing Paytm’s deep connection with its core audience.

20, Aug 2025
Building a Self-Reliant India Through Lithium Technology: Transforming Residential and Commercial Power Backup

chirag

By Chirag Chawla, Founder & CEO, Electrent Energy

India’s journey toward energy self-reliance is gaining momentum, with lithium-based technologies playing a pivotal role. Frequent power outages, voltage fluctuations, and growing electricity demand have highlighted the need for reliable backup systems across both homes and commercial spaces. As a result, lithium-ion batteries are increasingly being adopted for their efficiency, durability, and compatibility with clean energy sources.

While traditionally associated with electric vehicles, lithium batteries are now making inroads into residential and commercial power storage—offering an alternative to conventional lead-acid systems. This transition supports broader national goals of sustainability, energy independence, and local innovation.

The Shift from Traditional to Modern Backup Systems
Lead-acid batteries have long been the standard for inverter-based power backup in Indian households and businesses. However, they come with several limitations—shorter lifespan, larger size and weight, slower charging times, and regular maintenance requirements.

In contrast, lithium-ion batteries offer:

• Longer life cycles
• Higher energy density, resulting in smaller and lighter systems
• Faster charging capabilities
• Better thermal stability and overall safety
• Greater efficiency, with charge-discharge rates more than 95%

For homes, these advantages mean less space is needed for backup systems, and appliances can run longer during outages. In commercial environments, this translates to reduced downtime, lower maintenance, and improved operational reliability.

Market Trends and Growing Demand

India’s demand for lithium-ion batteries is growing at a rapid pace. According to market research, the domestic lithium-ion battery market was valued at $5.78 billion in 2025, and it is projected to exceed $16 billion by 2030, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 22%.

While the electric vehicle (EV) sector is a major consumer, the stationary energy storage segment which includes inverter backup systems for homes and businesses is also expanding. Increasing awareness, unreliable grid conditions, and the popularity of solar power are driving this growth in non-automotive applications.

Another forecast suggests that by 2030, India’s total lithium-ion battery demand could reach 115 GWh, with around 14% CAGR projected for stationary use cases. This includes power backup in residences, offices, shops, hospitals, and small-scale industries.

Policy Support and Domestic Manufacturing

India’s government has introduced several initiatives to boost domestic battery production and reduce dependence on imports. Among them, the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme stands out as a key driver, incentivizing large-scale manufacturing of advanced chemistry cells, including lithium-ion batteries.

In addition to incentives, the government has also rationalized import duties on battery components and supported the development of battery parks and R&D facilities. These steps are expected to reduce production costs, increase availability, and improve supply chain resilience over time.

Cost and Accessibility

One of the biggest concerns about lithium-ion technology has been its cost. However, prices have dropped significantly in recent years due to technological improvements, economies of scale, and increased competition.

Today, lithium battery backup systems cost nearly the same as lead-acid batteries, and in some cases, even less while still offering a far lower total cost of ownership This is due to:

• Reduced maintenance
• Longer product life
• Higher efficiency
• Lower replacement frequency

As domestic manufacturing scales up and competition increases, lithium-based solutions are becoming more accessible to both urban and rural users. Households benefit from consistent lighting and appliance use, while businesses gain more dependable operational continuity.

Environmental Benefits and Recycling Efforts

In addition to reliability and efficiency, lithium technology supports India’s environmental goals. These batteries:

• Do not contain toxic metals like lead or cadmium
• Are more energy-efficient, reducing greenhouse gas emissions
• Have smaller environmental footprints due to longer lifespan and compact design

Furthermore, battery recycling is an emerging area of focus. Recycling not only helps recover valuable materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel but also reduces the environmental impact of battery disposal.
Industry experts estimate that India’s lithium-ion battery recycling market could quadruple by 2030, supported by government policies and industry partnerships. These developments could reduce raw material imports and enhance India’s resource independence.

Integration with Renewable Energy
Lithium batteries are highly compatible with solar energy systems. Across India, more homes and commercial units are installing rooftop solar panels paired with lithium storage. This integration allows users to store solar power during the day and use it during power cuts or at night.
Such systems not only reduce electricity bills but also lessen dependence on the central grid, contributing to national renewable energy targets. Moreover, in regions with frequent outages or no grid access, solar-plus-storage setups offer an efficient alternative to diesel generators.

Challenges Ahead

Despite promising growth, the lithium battery sector in India still faces several challenges:

• Limited domestic reserves of lithium mean raw materials must be imported.
• High upfront costs may deter low-income users.
• Recycling infrastructure, while growing, is still in its early stages.

Addressing these issues will require continued investment, policy clarity, and innovation. Public-private collaborations, research into alternative battery chemistries, and improvements in collection and recycling logistics will be crucial in overcoming these hurdles.

Lithium battery technology is steadily transforming how power is stored and used in India. From homes to businesses, these systems are helping address longstanding issues related to power reliability, cost, and sustainability.

As India strives to become more energy independent, lithium-based backup systems—supported by strong policy frameworks, growing local manufacturing, and expanding recycling networks—are expected to play a vital role.

By enabling reliable, cleaner, and smarter energy solutions, lithium technology is not just reshaping the power backup landscape—it is also contributing meaningfully to India’s broader goals of self-reliance and environmental responsibility.

20, Aug 2025
Mindful Warriors: Challenges of Teaching Yoga for Armed Force

By – Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Author, Columnist, Founder – Akshar Yoga Kendraa
Work – Yoga and Spiritual Leader

yoga2

In an age where warfare has extended beyond physical battlefields into mental and emotional terrains, yoga has emerged as a powerful tool for resilience. Around the world, military institutions are increasingly embracing yogic practices to build physical endurance, mental clarity, emotional regulation, and spiritual calm. However, while the benefits are widely acknowledged, integrating yoga into the rigid frameworks of armed forces is far from seamless. The journey of teaching yoga to soldiers is paved with unique challenges—ranging from cultural resistance and logistical constraints to psychological readiness and institutional mindset.

A Warrior’s Paradox: Strength vs. Stillness

At the heart of the challenge lies a fundamental paradox. Armed forces are built on action, discipline, aggression, and combat-readiness. Yoga, in contrast, is rooted in stillness, surrender, breath control, and inner awareness. This dichotomy can lead to skepticism among military personnel who may initially perceive yoga as too “soft” or passive to fit the demands of a high-intensity combat environment.

Convincing soldiers—trained to respond to external threats with force—to engage in introspective practices like meditation or pranayama (breath control) often requires cultural reorientation. The language used by yoga instructors needs to be adapted: terms like “vital capacity,” “neuromuscular coordination,” and “mental agility” resonate better than “chakra balancing” or “emotional release.”

Breaking the Stigma

Another major hurdle is stigma. In many military cultures, particularly those dominated by traditional notions of masculinity, admitting to stress, trauma, or anxiety is taboo. Yoga, often linked with healing and emotional expression, may be associated with vulnerability—something not easily embraced in uniform.

Moreover, when yoga is introduced as a “therapy,” it can subtly imply weakness or injury, deterring otherwise healthy soldiers from participation. Progressive instructors now frame yoga not as a corrective but as a performance enhancer—a way to optimize alertness, reduce recovery time, and sharpen decision-making under pressure.

Structural and Logistical Constraints

The rigid schedules of military life leave little room for sustained wellness programs. Unlike civilians who may attend hour-long yoga classes in serene studios, soldiers operate in high-intensity, time-constrained environments. Designing short, effective modules that can be integrated into existing routines is a necessity.
Additionally, in deployment zones or remote outposts, access to trained yoga instructors and suitable spaces is severely limited. Noise, weather, terrain, and operational unpredictability make it difficult to maintain consistency. In such cases, mobile yoga kits, audio-guided practices, or peer-led sessions have shown promise.

Psychological Readiness and Trauma Sensitivity

Military personnel often carry deep psychological scars—from PTSD to survivor’s guilt. Yoga, especially meditation and breathwork, can stir repressed emotions to the surface. Without trauma-sensitive approaches, such experiences can overwhelm rather than heal.

Instructors must be trained not only in asana but also in military psychology and trauma-informed methods. Practices like Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep), which foster deep relaxation without intense emotional excavation, are proving to be particularly effective in such contexts.

Cultural Adaptation and Global Perspectives

Different countries have embraced yoga in diverse ways. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs supports yoga as part of integrative therapy for PTSD. In India, the Armed Forces Medical Services has officially included yoga in rehabilitation protocols. Israel, Australia, and parts of Europe are experimenting with mindfulness-based interventions in military bootcamps.

Each cultural context brings unique sensitivities—religious perceptions of yoga, gender dynamics, or secular mandates in state-run defense institutions. A one-size-fits-all approach does not work.

Breathing Into the Battlefield

Teaching yoga to soldiers is not about making warriors soft—it is about making them smarter, more adaptable, and more humane. It is about giving them tools not just to survive external wars, but to navigate internal ones with grace. While the challenges are many, the transformation yoga offers—when delivered with cultural intelligence, psychological sensitivity, and strategic design—is nothing short of revolutionary.

In the words of a decorated officer turned yoga ambassador, “We train to win wars. But yoga teaches us how to win peace within.”

20, Aug 2025
IIT Roorkee Launches India’s First GenAI-Powered Cybersecurity Program for Modern Defenders

National, August 20th 2025: In a landmark move to future-proof India’s cybersecurity talent, the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee), in collaboration with Futurense, has launched the PG Certificate in AI/GenAI Powered Cybersecurity, India’s first cybersecurity program purpose-built for GenAI-powered threat landscapes.

This 9-month hybrid program, starting October 18, 2025, addresses the growing AI threat vector in cybersecurity. As deepfakes, AI-authored phishing, LLM exploits, and SOC automation redefine the industry, defenders must now fight intelligence with intelligence.

“Cybersecurity today is no longer about protecting networks; it’s more about defending algorithms, AI systems, and cloud pipelines. This program is designed to prepare professionals for exactly that,” said Dr. Gaurav Nayak, Assistant Professor at the Mehta Family School of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, IIT Roorkee.

“As GenAI reshapes every layer of the digital stack, the need for security professionals who can govern, simulate, and secure AI-native systems is critical. We built this program to close that gap,” added Dr. Raghavendra Rohit, Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at IIT Roorkee

“AI is already rewriting the rules of cybersecurity. This program is built to ensure Indian professionals aren’t just reacting; they’re leading the charge,” said Raghav Gupta, Founder & CEO of Futurense. “With IIT Roorkee’s academic rigor and Futurense Leadership Council’s industry mentorship, we’re creating defenders who can secure the future, not just chase it.”

20, Aug 2025
Telangana Emerges as Global Life Sciences Hub with INR 54,000 Cr Investment

Telangana Emerging as Global Life Sciences Powerhouse with an investment of over ₹ 54,000 Crore since 2024

TELENGANA

Hyderabad, India August 20th 2025: Telangana has reaffirmed its global leadership in life sciences, with investments surpassing ₹54,000 Crore in the past year alone, and the city is now ranked among the top 7 life sciences clusters globally (only Indian city). Backed by robust policy support, industry-friendly infrastructure, and strategic partnerships, the state has attracted over ₹54,000 Crore in cumulative investments across pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, cell and gene therapy, medical devices, vaccines, and digital health since formation of the new Government. These investments will result in potential employment generation of more than 2 lakh jobs by leading global and Indian enterprises in areas such as sterile injectables, biosimilars, biologics, AI/ML and advanced healthcare services. Driven by a vision to position itself as the life sciences capital of Asia the state has been a catalyst of growth by providing the best intellectual and infrastructure support to corporates looking for strategic investment in India.

These progress of the life sciences sector was formally reviewed at the Board Meeting of Telangana Life Sciences held today under the chairmanship of Shri D. Sridhar Babu, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Industries & Commerce, Electronics & Communications, and Legislative Affairs. Special Chief Secretary Mr. Sanjay Kumar IAS, VC&MD TGIIC Mr. Shashanka IAS, CEO of Telangana Lifesciences Mr. Shakthi M. Nagappan, Chairman of DRL Mr. Satish Reddy, Chairman of Laurus Labs Mr. Satya Chava, among others attended the meeting.

According to Mr. D Sridhar Babu, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, Industries & Commerce and Legislative Affairs in the state of Telangana. “Telangana has emerged as a global epicentre for innovation-led life sciences and is now home to over 2000 Life Sciences Companies. The progress made in the last year reflects our strategic commitment to creating a future-ready, knowledge-driven ecosystem. Hyderabad’s emergence as one of the Top 7 global life sciences clusters is a direct outcome of Telangana’s progressive policies, robust infrastructure, and talent-rich ecosystem. This is a result of our focussed efforts and I take this opportunity to congratulate our team on the significant growth”.

During the review, the Hon’ble Minister also directed that the proposed Life Sciences University be developed in a world-class manner as the Telangana School of Life Sciences, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. This initiative is envisioned to become a premier institution fostering cutting-edge research, innovation, and talent development, thereby strengthening Telangana’s position as a global leader in life sciences.

Telangana life sciences ecosystem is valued at over $ 80 billion and it is the only region in the world to host more than 250 USFDA approved sites. The city has over 20+ Life Sciences and MedTech Incubators fostering R&D and innovation in next generation technologies. Hyderabad offers world class talent for Research, Manufacturing and Innovation supported by best-in-class industry infrastructure. It has been the Government’s endeavour to facilitate strategic investments in the state by laying down favourable government policies and incentives for both National and International corporations. Telangana also offers the right bandwidth of talent with over 40 National Research and Academic Institutions providing the required resources to fuel the sectors growth.

Mr. Shakthi Nagappan, CEO, Telangana Lifesciences said” Hyderabad has now become home to 8 of the top 10 big pharma companies, and we are well on the way to making it 10 out 10 under the leadership of Hon’ble CM and Hon’ble Minister (I&C). As part of the board meeting, Hon’ble Minister reviewed the plans for upgradation of Genome Valley and medtech park, etc. The Board assessed the sharp rise in investments, the growth of Hyderabad’s global standing, and the state’s progress toward becoming a $250 billion life sciences economy by 2030. Board also reviewed the draft of the upcoming Telangana Life Sciences Policy, which aims to catalyze sectoral expansion through incentives, talent development, infrastructure, and sustainability initiatives.

19, Aug 2025
KC GlobEd Partners with Aptech Limited to Scale Global Finance Education Across India and Beyond

New Delhi 19th August: KC GlobEd, one of India’s most trusted platforms for international finance education, has entered into a strategic partnership with Aptech Limited, a publicly listed EdTech leader. The two organisations formalised their collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a significant milestone for the edtech veterans to make global finance education more accessible, structured, and outcome-driven.

KC GlobEd has built a reputation for its integrated approach to finance education. Its model combines AI-powered learning, real-time analytics, expert-led classes, and structured mentorship to ensure learners are both exam-ready and industry-prepared. The platform’s curated study plans, updated content aligned with global exam blueprints, mock tests, doubt-clearing sessions, and personalised academic guidance have already supported thousands of aspirants worldwide. Through this partnership, these strengths will now be amplified by Aptech’s expansive network and institutional presence. With Aptech’s reach across IT, aviation, preschool, media, and education, KC GlobEd’s learner-first approach gains the distribution power to serve students and professionals at scale, both nationally and internationally.

Through this partnership, KC GlobEd will extend the reach of its preparatory programs for globally respected certifications including US CPA, US CMA, US EA, and UK ACCA by leveraging Aptech’s expansive network of over 500 franchise centers in India and abroad. The collaboration also creates new pathways for KC GlobEd’s offerings to be considered in government tendering, corporate training initiatives, and institutional tie-ups. In doing so, KC GlobEd’s learner-first, tech-enabled approach takes center stage, while Aptech provides the scale and distribution support to bring it to students and professionals who have traditionally lacked access.

Mr. Kamal Chhabra, Founder and CEO of KC GlobEd, shared, “This collaboration is a meeting of strengths. KC GlobEd has always focused on making finance education structured, accessible, and globally relevant, while Aptech has built unmatched scale and trust in vocational training. Together, we bring both depth and reach. For us, this is not confined to expansion alone. It is about shaping the future of finance education with purpose. Right from a student in a Tier 2 city or a professional preparing for international certifications, our combined vision ensures that quality education and global opportunities are within their reach. This partnership is built on shared values and relentless emphasis to transform learning outcomes in finance at scale.”

The MoU was supported by Mr. Neerajh Malikk, Whole-Time Director and Board Member of Aptech Limited, and Mr. Gaaurav ARORA, Vice President at Aptech. Their shared belief in accessible, high-quality education played a crucial role in bringing both organisations together.

Mr. Neerajh Malikk, Whole-Time Director & Board Member of Aptech Limited, laid forward the values of the partnership with KC GlobEd, stating, “At Aptech, our mission has always been to deliver meaningful, future-ready education that transforms careers. This partnership with KC GlobEd brings a powerful alignment of vision and purpose. Together, we’re creating a bridge between global finance credentials and learners across India, no matter where they are – urban centres or smaller towns. We believe that high-quality, globally aligned learning should be within reach for every aspiring professional, and this collaboration is a step in that direction.”

With over 15,000 learners across 122 countries, KC GlobEd continues to grow its presence through franchise partnerships, corporate collaborations, and institutional tie-ups. The MoU with Aptech marks a significant step toward reaching underrepresented learners, enhancing skill development outcomes, and building stronger bridges between education and employability.

19, Aug 2025
SPJ True Realtyy Unveils “Vedatam,” a Prestigious Commercial Destination in Sector 14, Gurugram

SPJ True Realtyy, the real estate arm of the SPJ Group, unveils Vedatam, a high-street retail development in Sector 14, Gurugram. With an investment of approximately Rs. 500 Cr, the project is designed to redefine retail, leisure, and urban living, becoming the first organised commercial hub in this part of the city. The project’s total estimated sales realisation is expected to exceed ₹1,000 crore, funded through promoter equity and sales proceeds.

Spread across 4.15 acres, Vedatam will be developed in two phases over a three-year timeline. The development will feature over 400 premium commercial units and approximately 140 thoughtfully designed residences in (Phase- II), combining retail vibrancy with community living. Currently, the company has launched two floors in its retail segment offering spaces priced between ₹25,000 to ₹45,000 per sq. ft. on built-up area.

Centrally located to serve 11 adjoining sectors, including 8, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23 and Palam Vihar, Vedatam is designed around a curated retail, F&B, and entertainment mix. The retail segment spans three levels, Lower Ground, Upper Ground, and First Floor, ensuring high visibility for brands and seamless shopping experiences. The second floor is a culinary destination with fine dining, multi-cuisine outlets, a brewery, and a spacious food court, while the third-floor houses Sector 14’s only multiplex operated by PVR, alongside more F&B options.

Pankaj Jain, Founder and CMD, SPJ Group, said, “We believe that locations like Sector 14, densely populated yet untapped in organised retail, hold immense potential, and Vedatam is our answer to that opportunity. With this project, we are setting a new benchmark in neighbourhood retail and mixed-use development in Gurugram. Vedatam reflects our commitment to creating vibrant, sustainable ecosystems that blend lifestyle, leisure, and community living.”

With over 1,100 car parking spaces (including a unique three-level parking system), high-speed elevators and escalators, 100% power backup, advanced fire safety, and earthquake-resistant construction, Vedatam is engineered for operational ease and visitor comfort. Future phases will introduce premium residences and an exclusive clubhouse, fully realising the live-work-play vision.

Vedatam enjoys seamless access to NH-48, Old Delhi-Gurgaon Road, and the Dwarka Expressway, ensuring smooth mobility across NCR. It lies just 3 km from HUDA City Centre Metro Station and 5 km from MG Road Metro Station, while business districts like Cyber City, Udyog Vihar, and Golf Course Extension Road are all nearby. The IGI Airport is just a 20-minute drive away, making Vedatam a truly connected destination for modern urban living.

With a focus on innovation, quality construction, and strategic land positioning, SPJ True Realtyy aims to redefine the real estate narrative in NCR. Backed by the legacy and financial strength of the SPJ Group, Vedatam aligns with the company’s commitment to delivering projects that not only meet but exceed modern urban aspirations.

19, Aug 2025
Toyota Kirloskar Motor Launches Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle – Sprint Edition

Mumbai, 19 August 2025: Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd. (TKM) today launched the Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle – Sprint Edition, a sportier and more dynamic expression of its iconic luxury hybrid electric sedan. Featuring a striking dual-tone exterior, matte black enhancements, and an exclusive sports kit*, this new variant blends dynamic aesthetics with refined performance. The Camry Sprint Edition reflects an enthusiastic persona – designed for those who seek fun-to-drive experience wrapped in sporty sophistication.

Expressing his thoughts on Camry Sprint Edition, Mr. Varinder Wadhwa, Vice President – Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd., said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd., our customer-centricity continues to guide our evolution, in line with the changing aspirations of today’s consumers. The Camry Sprint Edition reflects this approach – with a refreshed sporty character, highlighted by eye-catching dual-tone styling, bold black matte alloy wheels, and an exclusive Sports Kit that lends the vehicle an agile stance and commanding road presence. With this new variant, we are confident that the Sprint Edition will resonate with modern consumers and fortify Toyota’s commitment to sustainable mobility.”

The Toyota Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle – Sprint Edition is equipped with advanced 5th Generation Hybrid Electric Technology, delivering a compelling blend of performance and fuel economy. The system produces a total output of 169 kW (230 PS), while offering best-in-class fuel efficiency of 25.49 km/l**. With drive modes such as Eco, Normal, and Sport, the vehicle adapts effortlessly to varied driving preferences.

Equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, the Camry Sprint Edition offers a comprehensive suite of features including Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with full-speed range, Lane Departure Alert, Lane Tracing Assist, and Automatic High Beam. Supporting these are 9 SRS airbags, Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Hill Start Assist Control, Electronic Parking Brake with Brake Hold, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, and a 360° Panoramic View Monitor for added visibility and confidence. Convenience features such as a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat with lumbar support and memory, ventilated front seats, paddle shifters, wireless charger, Heads-Up Display, and memory settings for the Outside Rear-View Mirror (ORVM) and tilt-telescopic steering column bring together performance, luxury, and user-friendly functionality.

Available in 5 dual tone sporty colours, Emotional Red & Matte Black, Platinum White Pearl & Matte Black, Cement Grey & Matte Black, Precious Metal & Matte Black, Dark Blue Metallic & Matte Black—the Camry Sprint Edition reimagines premium hybrid sedan with a bold new edge. Toyota offers an 8-year or 160,000 km warranty (whichever comes first) on the hybrid battery, providing long-term peace of mind.

19, Aug 2025
A Night at the Museum: SAPA Goes Dark

Dali & Gala’s ongoing IP, A Night at the Museum, returns, inviting chefs to abandon the familiar confines of their own kitchens and step onto a blank, edible canvas.
A deliberate act of creative provocation: If you gave a chef complete freedom, what would they dream up?

On the 20th of August, that canvas belongs to Dina Weber of  SAPA Bakery, synonymous with artisanal bakes and dishes, is defined by seasonal ingredients, and a deep respect for culinary craft.

SAPA’s bright mornings slip into the shadowy world of Dali & Gala. The space is a surrealist cocktail bar, the mood is nocturnal, and the menu is an homage to Catalonia, Dalí’s birthplace, stitched with elements from his legendary cookbook, Les Dîners de Gala.

In its pages, Dalí himself warns:“If you are a disciple of one of those calorie-counters who turn the joys of eating into a form of punishment, close this book at once; it is too lively, too aggressive, and far too impertinent for you.”

This is food as theatre, where roasted leeks in molten camembert meet saffron-almond squid, where jasmine honey and challah ice cream share the stage with cherry jelly layered over panna cotta. It’s intimate, excessive, and deliberate.

Think Spanish bread served with dill butter from a grand communal stack; The Salade du Dumas, a beetroot, celery, and potato salad with anchovy aioli and crisp fried spinach; Pollo a la Catalan roasted chicken leg in a slow-cooked prune and raisin sauce; Calcots, roasted leeks with romesco sauce and molten Camembert; Mandonguilles, meatballs braised with squid in a saffron almond tomato wine sauce. Add to this Paté of chicken liver with cognac cranberry jelly and hogaza toast; Mel I Mato, whipped goat cheese with forest honey, walnuts, and toasted hogaza bread; and to end with a whimsical finale, Cherry Panna Cotta, layered with lush cherry jelly.

A Night at the Museum is about reimagining the familiar at a performative, sensory level, where food, space, and story collide. With SAPA Goes Dark, the result is a surreal feast that feels like stepping inside a painting: rich, unexpected, and impossible to forget.