11, Jul 2025
The Real Price of Living Abroad (Versus Staying in India)
By – Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces
The recent fake news about (relatively) cheap permanent residency in the UAE has thrown up all the old questions about our fascination for leaving India and settling abroad. This phenomenon is largely a hangover, albeit a real and persistent one, from earlier decades. What does it mean to be an Indian in India today, and what does it really mean to settle down abroad? Let’s examine this.
Yes, India’s economy is by far the fastest-growing one in the world today. This year alone, the Indian job market is expected to grow by 9%; our booming manufacturing and automobile sectors will be increasing hiring by 25% and 20% just in 2025 and the IT sector, our ‘crown jewel’ industry, also forecasts a 15–20% growth in employment in 2025.
So yes, when it comes to opportunity, India has everything that other countries have, if not much more. But let’s examine the nuts and bolts of an Indian living abroad instead.
Cost of Living – Getting the Most for Your Money
The big gap in cost between India and other countries is a very strong reasons to remain here. The cost of living in India is well over 200% lower than in the US (not including rent). Coming to housing – on an average, renting a home is 700% lower in India than in the US. And since homeownership is close to every Indian’s heart, let’s compare property prices in New York City to, say, Pune – they are over 13 times higher in NYC. The average upper-mid-range home price in Pune is approximately Rs. 8,000 per sq. ft, which converts to about USD 1,037 per sq. meter. In New York City, the median price per square meter is about USD 15,174.
This is by no means a perfect example, but it highlights the vast disparity between major US and Indian cities in terms of real estate costs.
The discrepancies are huge at every level, especially if we look at some other expense groups. In the US, restaurants cost 320% more than in India, while basic supplies cost 220% more. In India, a simple lunch at a cheap restaurant costs Rs. 250, whereas in the US it costs Rs. 1,712 when converted from USD – a difference of 623%. Even the cost of getting around is lower in India. A monthly pass for public transit is Rs. 850 in India and Rs. 5,563 in the US.
For professionals in India who make good money, this cost advantage lets them live a life that would need a lot more money to live overseas. In India, a middle-class professional may afford to hire help around the house, live in a nice place, and go out for fun on a regular basis for a lot less than they would in other countries.
The Cultural Advantage
Living and working in India gives you access to family support networks that are unlike any other and greatly improve your quality of life. This is a fact that is rudely driven home to Indians who emigrate abroad, unfortunately too late. In India, we value working together, and coworkers frequently become like family. The focus on making decisions based on family and working together to achieve goals makes the Indian workplace a very supportive place.
There are always exceptions, of course, but our culture is all about treating coworkers and clients well. The Indian company model focuses on relationships, builds professional networks that last, and help people rise in their careers. We have 22 official languages and therefore also different regional influences. The Indian workplace tends to have a vibrant professional atmosphere that values differences and encourages open-minded thinking.
If we take the US as an example again – companies were beginning to realize how important diversity and inclusion are, until a recent major political shift caused a massive reversal on that front. Meanwhile in India, more women are becoming leaders, and companies are putting rules in place to make sure everyone has the same chances.
Work-Life Balance
I’ll agree that we’re a little behind some other countries on this front, though not nearly as behind as others like Japan and South Korea. India does have a reputation for long working hours, but the work culture is quickly changing to allow for a better balance between work and life. The Covid-19 pandemic introduced the hybrid work model which has proved to be remarkably sticky.
Today, 60% of modern Indian enterprises have adopted hybrid models, which allow for flexible work arrangements. This change shows that more people are becoming aware of how important personal time and employee well-being are.
Policies that encourage a healthier separation between work and home are replacing the ‘always-on’ lifestyle. Indian businesses are putting more money into programs for employee health and wellness, mental health, and flexible scheduling to develop work environments that last longer. This change makes India a more appealing place for professionals who want to advance in their careers and find personal fulfillment.
India – The Strategic Choice for Indians
More than ever before, being an Indian citizen in India makes so much more sense than being an immigrant abroad. We’re on our way to becoming a major player in the global economy. The ‘advanced’ economies take us very seriously now, at every level. And in the mean time, these countries are becoming increasingly hostile towards foreigners.
We are in a great position to take advantage of our country’s growth while also enjoying the unique benefits of working in one of the most exciting and opportunity-rich places in the world – our home. It has never been a better time to be an Indian in India.
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- By Neel Achary
11, Jul 2025
This French Fries Day, Don’t Just Eat. Devour
July 11, 2025: What’s better than a plate of hot, crispy fries? A whole menu of it. Burgrill brings the heat this French Fries Day with bold seasonings, melty cheese, spicy sauces, and a crunch that hits just right. It’s the one day where calories don’t count because it’s National French Fries Day!
African Peri Peri Fries
Brace yourself for a full-blown flavour volcano with the African Peri Peri Fries. These golden, crinkle-cut beauties are smothered in bold chilli mayo and rich, velvety cheese sauce that brings the perfect balance of heat and creaminess. The flavour of peri peri spices lingers on your palate, making every bite a fiery indulgence. It’s the ultimate combo of crispy, saucy, and spicy — a true Burgrill signature.
Portuguese Fries
Crinkle-cut and crisped to perfection, the Portuguese Fries are anything but basic. Tossed in Burgrill’s signature in-house peri peri rub, they deliver a smoky and mildly spicy hit that keeps your taste buds exploding. The robust seasoning gets to every groove, making each fry burst with personality. Simple, addictive, and full of character, these are your new go-to savoury snack.
Smoky BBQ Fries
Craving that smoky, cheesy comfort? We have got you covered. The crinkle-cut Smoky BBQ Fries are generously wrapped in a rich, tangy BBQ seasoning that brings the slow-smoked flavour straight to your plate. A smooth, cheesy drizzle ties it all together, delivering a creamy kick in every crunchy bite. It’s the ideal choice for BBQ lovers.
Classic Salted Fries
Timeless and universally loved, the Classic Salted Fries are golden, crinkle-cut, and perfectly seasoned for that nostalgic fry experience. Lightly salted to enhance the potato flavour, these fries hit the sweet spot between crispiness and fluffiness. Whether you’re dipping or munching solo, they’re a comforting, no-fuss treat that never disappoints. Simplicity at its absolute best.
COMING SOON: THE KOREAN FIRE RANGE
Korean Fire Fries
Bold, blazing, and packed with umami — these Korean Fire Fries are not for the faint-hearted. Crinkle-cut fries are tossed in a spicy Korean fire sauce that brings a thrilling kick of heat. A smooth, cooling ranch drizzle is layered on top to balance the spice, while black & white sesame seeds add texture and a nutty note. It’s an irresistible rollercoaster of flavour in every bite.
Chicken Korean Fire Fries
Meet the ultimate upgrade: Chicken Korean Fire Fries. This loaded indulgence features a bed of golden, crinkle-cut fries topped with crispy fried chicken slices, drenched in our bold Korean fire sauce. A cooling ranch drizzle mellows the heat, while black & white sesame seeds offer that final touch of crunch and character. Spicy, savoury, and satisfying — this one’s a meal in itself.
With this, we’d request you to consider featuring these delicious Burgrill offerings for the upcoming National French Fries Day for the stories you might be working on.
11, Jul 2025
Fire and Industrial Safety a Key Focus for UP Government: Minister Rakesh Sachan
“Fire & Industrial Safety is one of the priority sectors of UP Govt”, says Shri Rakesh Sachan, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister, Micro Small and Medium Enterprises, Khadi and Villages Industries, Sericulture Industries, Handloom and Textile, Govt. of UP.
UP Government considers Fire and Industrial Safety as key sectors for the prevention of accidents in the industrial as well as residential sector. Setting up disaster management units in every district, providing information through e-portals, spreading awareness among MSME workers, ensuring compliance with fire safety norms, and conducting regular checks of fire safety equipment are the key focus areas of our government said, Shri Rakesh Sachan, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister, Micro Small and Medium Enterprises, Khadi and Villages Industries, Sericulture Industries, Handloom and Textile at PHDCCI’s 4th edition of UFSEC held today, from 10th & 11th July 2025, at India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida.
UP is the largest state in the country, and under the leadership of Hon’ble PM Modi and Hon’ble CM Yogi, the state has worked on strengthening its infrastructure. Earlier, many entrepreneurs were hesitant to invest here. But during the UP Global Investors Summit 2023, over 19,000 MoUs were signed, reflecting investment intents worth approximately ₹33.5 lakh crore, He discussed that this is a very important topic today at this conference many views have been shared regarding the country’s preparedness for such situation.
He further appreciated PHDCCI for working hand in hand with the government for the past 120 years and said that the UP government is consistently working towards the goal of becoming a $1 trillion economy. After agriculture, the MSME sector is the second-largest contributor to India’s economy in terms of employment generation and GDP contribution. Nearly 1.75 crore people have gained employment through MSMEs, and it plays a very significant role in the GSDP of UP.
Uttar Pradesh is moving ahead as a growth engine, the government has recently allotted a sizeable land for a textile manufacturing park in Kanpur and I further urge investors to invest in UP and participate in the state’s vision.
Shri Rajendra Singh, Member & HOD, National Disaster Management Authority, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India discussed that while disasters don’t announce themselves, unpreparedness always does. He added, each life lost and every economic setback is a reminder that preparedness is not just essential but non-negotiable.
He further informed that NDMA has developed comprehensive protocols on chemical and industrial safety and shared that in the past two years, the focus has been on mock drills to enhance real-time preparedness. He informed that Last year, the Hon’ble Home Minister highlighted the need for action in industrial businesses. The 15th Finance Commission allocated ₹5,000 crore to states for expansion and modernisation of fire services, with ₹700 crore allocated to Uttar Pradesh.
Mr Singh deliberated that the success of these initiatives depends on partnership and cooperation, and it is up to the states to utilise the funds. Out of the ₹2.28 lakh crore allocated, 40% has been utilised to provide relief, 30% for rebuilding, 20% for mitigation, and 10% for capacity building. He also advised everyone to take this seriously, learn from past incidents, and be prepared for the future.
Shri Shashank Chaudhary, IAS, ACEO, Invest UP, highlighted upon the investment opportunities in UP. He said UP is the only state with 13 expressways (6 operational and 7 upcoming), the highest number of international airports, and one of the largest numbers of domestic airports. It also has a rapid transport system, enabling sustainable transportation.
He informed that the current GSDP of the state is around $350 billion and that 56% of the total population is in the working age group. Further, UP has an ecosystem of 3,000+ Industrial Training Institutes. On the industrial ecosystem, he stated that the state has the highest number of MSMEs in India (9.6 million), with a 15% YoY growth in the manufacturing sector, contributing 11% to the state’s GSDP. He also mentioned the presence of district-wise export clusters for 75 unique One-District One-Product (ODOP) items and said the government is actively focusing on investment.
He concluded that the state has a favourable business environment, currently ranked 2nd in the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) rankings. To attract foreign investment, the state government has launched the UP FDI-FCI policy. He also discussed platforms like Nivesh Mitra and Nivesh Sarathi, along with the Online Incentive Management System, which reflect the government’s commitment to investor facilitation through digital governance.
Shri Sunil Kumar Jha, IPS, Director General Fire Services, Civil Defence & Home Guards, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India discussed how North India especially the Delhi-NCR region is an important industrial corridor, but it also poses various disaster risks. He noted the aging infrastructure and inadequate fire safety equipment in many industries. He highlighted the need for proper fire and disaster preparedness, especially for small-scale industries.
Mr. Jha also noted that climate-induced heat waves further increase the complexity of disaster response. The central government has introduced the Fire Safety Bill to bring about uniformity which has been implemented in Uttar Pradesh. Various campaigns are being promoted across educational institutions through the department’s portal, time-to-time advisories are issued. He informed that BIS issues the National Building Code and that a new version will be released by 2025.
Further he called upon all stakeholders to collaborate and focus on smart fire-fighting technologies, AI, robust training for first responders, and investment in fire research and development making fire safety not just a compliance requirement, but a corporate necessity, responsibility, and priority.
Shri Hemant Sapra, Co–Chair, UP State Chapter, PHDCCI, spoke about PHDCCI providing such a platform where stronger policies and environments can be created, as the life of every individual and worker is important. He informed that PHDCCI has been working for the safety issues for the past 30–35 years. Fortunately, the government has created policies and infrastructure that ensure safety and implementation.
He added that BIS has also upgraded the standards of safety products. He also emphasised that 100% implementation must be ensured and that a conscious effort is needed to maintain safety both personally and in one’s surroundings.
Shri Vivek Agarwala, Co– Chair, UP State Chapter, PHDCCI, discussed on how this conference on industrial safety, fire safety, and disaster response is aligned with PM’s vision of Viksit Bharat. He said that PHDCCI is celebrating its 120th anniversary this year, and aligning with the government’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, both for the country and Uttar Pradesh is the chamber’s goal.
This 4th edition of UFSEC is a step in that direction, focusing on deliberations on such vital issues. There should be One Nation, One Policy, One System, as currently every state has a different policy. We want one unified policy for better resource utilisation, added Mr. Agarwala.
Dr. Ranjeet Mehta CEO and Secretary General, PHDCCI discussed that Safety is one of the most important aspects of our lives. Today, there is a need to be aware and prepared. It begins with each citizen understanding its importance and even one act of negligence can cost millions of lives. In a rapidly changing world, awareness of safety at every phase is essential. This expo and conference is a platform to discuss these critical issues and we are truly honoured to have such luminaries here to deliberate on this crucial topic.
He added, nothing is more powerful than protected and well-lived lives. If safety becomes a habit and health is prioritised, then success follows naturally.
Dr. SP Garg, Conference Convenor & Former Executive Director, GAIL (HSE) India Ltd spoke on the theme of the 4th edition of UFSEC and said the conference is critical, as 4% of the world’s GDP is lost due to such incidents. Therefore, we need to seriously discuss and strategise ways to create safer work environments both on and off campus.
Shri Mahesh Kudav, President, Safety Appliances Manufacturers Association and Shri Rajendra Sankhe, Chief Operating Officer, Indorama India Pvt. Ltd. also deliberated on various aspects of safety in the industry. The conference witnessed over 100 exhibitors participated, underscoring the global relevance of industrial safety, fire prevention, and disaster preparedness. The participation of both national and international stakeholders reflects a shared commitment towards building resilient industrial ecosystems and fostering cross-border collaboration on safety standards and technologies. Revolving around the theme “Building a Safe, Sustainable, and Resilient Tomorrow,” UFSEC 2025 aims to foster co-learning through knowledge sharing, promote meaningful interactions among stakeholders, and establish new partnerships and networks.
11, Jul 2025
Acuity Knowledge Partners Launches RFP Pulse to Help Asset Managers Win New Mandates
Bengaluru, India, July 11, 2025 – Acuity Knowledge Partners’ RFP Pulse, a managed digital solution is designed to transform how asset and wealth managers respond to RFPs (Requests for Proposals) and DDQs (Due Diligence Questionnaires). Already live with multiple clients, RFP Pulse is delivering measurable results, including 25-30% efficiency gains, reduced manual effort, and improved response quality.
Built specifically for financial services workflows, RFP Pulse combines generative AI, semantic search, and a structured content repository with Acuity’s deep domain expertise and service layer. This format-agnostic solution automates and accelerates document ingestion, content retrieval, draft generation, and formatting across Word, Excel, and digital DDQ tools – dramatically reducing time and effort for client teams.
“We are extremely pleased with the developments achieved through RFP Pulse, an innovative tool that integrates Generative AI with human expertise to enhance productivity and collaboration,” said Sailaja Devireddy, Global Head of Financial Marketing Services at Acuity Knowledge Partners. “We have drawn on Acuity’s extensive experience supporting over 70 financial institutions and 250+ RFP specialists, whose insights have been crucial in developing the transformative capabilities offered by RFP Pulse.”
“RFP Pulse is the result of our strong delivery capabilities and domain expertise in asset management,” said Chanakya Dissanayake, Head of Delivery Strategic Initiatives (Asset Management) at Acuity Knowledge Partners. “By automating every stage of the RFP and DDQ process, we’re helping firms enhance productivity and maintain top-tier quality.”
RFP Pulse has already demonstrated significant impact in live client deployments, including a 70% reduction in time to retrieve responses and over 80-85% accuracy in initial drafts. Clients are experiencing measurable efficiency gains and bandwidth savings, making it a trusted solution for top-tier global asset managers.
“With RFP Pulse, we’re redefining what efficiency and quality look like for asset and wealth managers,” said Jon O’Donnell, Chief Operating Officer of Acuity Knowledge Partners. “It’s a key step forward in our mission to deliver scalable, intelligent solutions that help financial services firms work smarter and stay ahead of the curve.”
11, Jul 2025
How FLAME University Students Are Rewriting India’s Cultural Map with the Discover India Program
Pune, July 11, 2025: What if a university assignment didn’t just teach you but actually transformed you? What if learning meant going beyond the classroom into living stories—between cities and villages, memory and myth, tradition and culture? What if it could carry you from tracing the sacred waters of a Narmada ghat to documenting disappearing dialects in Jharkhand, into fishermen’s kitchens in Raigad, or inside a craftsman’s quiet workshop in Maheshwar? At FLAME University, the Discover India Program (DIP) offers a deep dive into the soul of the country. Here, every journey becomes a chapter in a growing digital archive—one that documents India not just through facts and figures, but as lived, felt, and remembered by its people. Here, you don’t just study India. You walk it and hear it— and along the way, stitch together a cultural atlas of voices, histories, and traditions.
In an age of surface-level scrolling and vanishing reels, the students of FLAME University are building something quietly radical—a living, breathing, digital tapestry of India. And it’s open to all curious travelers, armchair historians, academics, educators, even policy thinkers, and anyone seeking the India that doesn’t always make it to guidebooks or glossy textbooks. Since inception, DIP has evolved into one of India’s most authentic experiential learning journeys. It invites second-year undergraduate students to leave the classroom behind and step into real communities, real traditions, and real tensions. Through the 10-day field immersions backed by months of interdisciplinary research, students become storytellers, documentarians, and cultural archivists.
Speaking on the significance of DIP at FLAME, Prof. Dishan Kamdar, Vice Chancellor, FLAME University, said, “The Discover India Program (DIP) is a one-of-a-kind experiential learning opportunity for our students with a rich legacy of more than 300 diverse and engaging projects curated by over 3,000 students, guided by faculty mentors. The DIP gives our students first-hand experience and a close understanding of the socio-economic, cultural, linguistic, and regional diversity of our country and greatly enhances the students’ real-world understanding. The experience helps students to conduct research with humility, interview with empathy, and record with responsibility. It prepares them not just for academic rigor but for a lifetime of civic thinking. In discovering India, they often discover themselves.”
He further added, “The DIP archives are well-designed, vibrant with rich, meaningful content. Visitors can browse by state, theme, or community. From exploring the intersection of music and migration in Rajasthan to how women in Tamil Nadu sustain local economies… DIP has it all, mapped with photos, videos, and on-the-ground stories.”
With over 300 projects, DIP serves as a virtual map of India, built through the eyes and voices of its youth. Not mere academic works, these are raw, real, and first-person narratives of transformation and resilience. These stories emerge from categories as vast as India itself. These include faith, food, urban change, tribal folklore, music, memory, and myth. Housed on the FLAME DIP portal, not as cold research but as warm repositories of lived experience, they are available for everyone to explore.
Prof. Poonam Gandhi, Assistant Dean, Experiential Programs at FLAME, shared, “The latest projects of DIP that speak to my soul include ‘Jal Jangal Zameen’ (a student journey into Mumbai’s Aarey forest, mapping the ecological and emotional landscape of a contested green lung), ‘Ab Hamara Daur Hai, Yeh Naya Indore Hai’ (tracking how Indore’s waste workers are becoming digital citizens in a smart city revolution), ‘Ahilya Bai ki Kahani, Maheshwar ki Zubaani’ (a tribute to oral memory and legacy, through the lens of Maheshwar’s residents), An Exploration of Elephant Rehabilitation in Kottoor, Kerala and Maati Jo Mel, Kutch Ji Kala (a legacy of tradition and resilience in pottery, Kutch, Gujarat), among others.”
As the NEP 2020 emphasizes anchoring in Indian knowledge systems, FLAME University’s Discover India Program is already several steps ahead, quietly laying down the tracks of a pedagogy built on encounter and not just instruction.
11, Jul 2025
Study, Stay, Succeed: Post-Study Work Policies Are Driving STEM Applications
11th July 2025: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) remains the top choice for international students who want to build strong careers in today’s fast-changing world. For years, countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany have led the way in offering world-class STEM education. But now, new countries are gaining attention.
Canada, Australia, Ireland, and the Netherlands are quickly becoming popular with students from all over the world. These countries offer high-quality education, strong job opportunities after graduation, and helpful visa rules for international students.
“We are witnessing a new era in international STEM education, where access and opportunity are expanding beyond traditional borders,” said Sonal Kapoor, Global Chief Business Officer at Prodigy Finance. “Today, students need more choices than ever before, with countries like France, Germany, and the UK seeing record increases in study abroad demand, up 150% and 50% respectively. Amid growing uncertainty around U.S. study visas, students are turning to institutions like the Technical University of Munich, Macquarie University, and Imperial College London. At Prodigy Finance, we’re proud to support future leaders in AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity, and Renewable Energy as they pursue world-class education without financial barriers.”
Government policies in these countries have played a crucial role in shaping this trend. For example, Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international graduates to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies, helping them gain valuable experience and transition to permanent residency. Australia’s Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) offers similar opportunities, with recent policy enhancements further extending post-study work rights for graduates in high-demand sectors. The United Kingdom’s Graduate visa allows international students to remain and work for at least two years after graduation, and Germany provides an 18-month residence permit for job-seeking graduates. The United States continues to attract STEM talent through its Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT Extension, which together allow up to three years of work experience in a student’s field.
The most recent Open Doors reports confirm that STEM fields are the most popular among international students in the United States. For the 2023/2024 academic year, 56% of international students in the US were enrolled in STEM fields, with Computer Science, Engineering, and Data Analytics among the most popular majors. In the 2021/22 academic year, 54% of all international students studied in STEM fields, and Math & Computer Science was the single largest field of study for international students. The Open Doors data also highlights that, while the US remains the top destination, students are increasingly exploring alternative countries for their studies.
As students and families compare their options, the most attractive countries for STEM education are those that combine strong academics with clear, practical pathways to employment and long-term success.
As study abroad destinations broaden, access to trusted, globally available education financing is becoming a key enabler. Platforms like Prodigy Finance, which support students through flexible, no-collateral loans, are helping make international STEM degrees more attainable for students from a wide range of socioeconomic backgrounds.
For many, pursuing a STEM degree abroad is no longer just a dream; it’s a realistic and rewarding path to a global career.
11, Jul 2025
SALT Unveils ‘Monsoon Mocktails’ with a Modern Indian Twist
SALT Indian Restaurant Unveils ‘Monsoon Mocktails’: A Seasonal Tribute to Indian Flavours with a Contemporary Twist
11th July 2025 – This monsoon, SALT Indian Restaurant brings the rains to life with a refreshing new menu: ‘Monsoon Mocktails,’ a limited-time collection of non-alcoholic beverages crafted with bold ingredients, seasonal inspirations, and SALT’s signature Indian twist. Now available at Pune, Hyderabad, B-City, Miraya Rose, Shantiniketan, Kalyan Nagar, Koramangala, Chennai, VR Mall, and UB City.
Rooted in the fine-dine ethos that defines SALT, the ‘Monsoon Mocktails’ showcase reflects the brand’s distinctive culinary philosophy where traditional Indian ingredients meet modern mixology. Each drink is thoughtfully designed to spotlight homegrown flavours, indigenous spices, and regional fruits, while delivering a clean, contemporary experience in both taste and presentation.
At the heart of this seasonal collection is a lineup of inventive, spice-forward mocktails that capture the mood and magic of the monsoons. Fantasy Burst is a playful blend of pineapple juice and strawberry purée topped with whipped cream, offering a vibrant, tropical kick. Smoked Guava Shikanji layers tangy guava with smoked salt and chaat masala for a fizzy, nostalgic twist on a street-side classic. For something more herbaceous, Basil Lychee Blast brings together muddled basil, lychee juice, lime, and elderflower syrup in a delicate yet refreshing mix. The Golden Warmer, served warm, offers deep comfort with jasmine tea, fresh rosemary, honey, and a touch of ginger, which is perfect for rainy evenings. Rounding off the menu is Drizzling Day, a light and uplifting blend of fresh watermelon, orange juice, basil leaves, and soda that sparkles with seasonal freshness.
At SALT, mocktails are more than just alternatives; they are crafted with the same attention to balance, depth, and finesse as any signature dish and designed to complement the restaurant’s modern Indian dining experience. By fusing traditional flavours with thoughtful techniques, SALT redefines what non-alcoholic drinks can be: expressive, aromatic, and every bit as memorable.
“Our mocktails are an extension of who we are as a brand. They’re rich in tradition, elevated with technique, and infused with the flavours that make Indian cuisine so unique. The monsoon collection is our way of celebrating the season with bold, clean flavours that speak for themselves.”
Crafted for those who appreciate the finer details, the Monsoon Mocktails menu is now available for a limited time. Visit SALT this season and experience the rains, not just outside, but in every sip.
11, Jul 2025
Third Wave Coffee Brings New Twist to Bobbles – Introduces 9 New Variants
Mumbai, 11th July, 2025: Third Wave Coffee, India’s beloved premium coffee and beverage chain, has officially launched Bobbles – its range of Bubble Tea, marking an exciting evolution in their existing Boba inspired category. Now available across all locations, Bobbles is up for taste across nine bold and refreshing flavours, where patrons can experience both popping boba to chewy boba depending on their vibe for the day. The new launch also marks yet another milestone in the larger food and beverage innovation journey of the brand.
What began as a seasonal experiment with classic Bobbles quickly became a customer favourite, sparking demand for a more diverse offering. As millennial and Gen Z consumers increasingly seek global flavours and socially driven choices, the Bubble Tea category is expected to more than double by 2033, redefining what indulgence means. Third Wave Coffee’s entry into this space reinforces its mission to be an inclusive, beverage-first café destination celebrating variety, experience, and personal choice.
“The response has been phenomenal,” said Anirudh Sharma, Co-founder of Third Wave Coffee. “While coffee is at our core, we’ve always seen ourselves as a beverage-forward brand. Our goal is to stay relevant to all kinds of consumers in our community, whether they start their day with a strong brew or prefer something playful in the evening. The same guest who walks in for their morning coffee might come back later for a different kind of indulgence. The love and enthusiasm from our community pushed us to explore this category further. With our new range, we’re introducing exciting flavours and chewy boba — adding more texture, more fun, and more indulgence to every cup. This launch is another step in our ongoing journey to innovate and craft memorable beverage experiences”
Designed to complement every palate and moment, the new range of Bobbles features two categories:
Fruit Bobbles bring bright, juicy flavours to life with vibrant citrus and berry notes. Flavours like Peach Grapefruit, Grapefruit Strawberry, Grapefruit Orange, and Orange Strawberry feature popping boba that burst with fruity goodness, making every sip a fun and refreshing experience.
Milk Bobbles offer a richer, more indulgent experience. Crafted with silky milk base and paired with chewy boba, these include Thai Bobbles, with bold tea, spices and sweet cream; Vanilla Matcha Bobbles, a smooth fusion of earthy matcha and vanilla; the Original Bobbles a classic favourite with creamy, comforting tea notes; the Vanilla Bobbles—a luscious blend of creamy tea and smooth vanilla with chewy boba and the visually striking Taro Bobbles, a sweet and creamy purple drink that brings both flavour and flair.
With this new launch, Third Wave Coffee is setting a new benchmark for bubble tea culture in India offering something for every preference, from light, fruity refreshers to bold, textured indulgences.
11, Jul 2025
The House of Rare Launches Largest Store in Chhattisgarh at Raipur’s Currency Tower
Raipur, India: The House of Rare, India’s leading contemporary fashion house, proudly announces the opening of its third store in Raipur, marking a significant step in the brand’s mission to democratize premium fashion across the country. Located at the iconic Currency Tower on GE VIP Road, the new store is a testament to the brand’s expansion into emerging high-potential markets and is poised to become a style destination in Chhattisgarh’s capital.
Spread across 3,200 square feet and rising two levels high, the new The House of Rare store in Current Tower is a breathtaking celebration of fashion, design, and immersive retail. The ground floor is home to Rareism, where chic, effortless womenswear takes center stage, celebrating the power of the Indian woman and Rare Ones by Rare Rabbit, a vibrant and expressive space tailored for boys aged 4 to 16. The first floor unfolds into Rare Rabbit, where progressive menswear meets timeless sophistication. Ascend to the first floor and step into the bold, street-smart world of Rare’Z by Rare Rabbit, a new-age expression of footwear and fashion for the design-forward consumer. With a massive expanse and two levels, the store offers a fully immersive experience to the customers.
This store launch signals The House of Rare’s continued commitment to aggressively grow its presence in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, tapping into a growing base of fashion-aware consumers seeking premium yet accessible design. With a stronghold in metro markets already established, the brand is now focused on creating lifestyle-driven experiences in cities like Raipur that are seeing a rapid evolution in retail sensibilities.
“As we enter Raipur, we do so with the belief that great fashion should be for everyone, not just the metros,” said Lavish Soni, Chief Business Officer, Retail, The House of Rare. “This store is a bridge between our design ethos and Raipur’s rising fashion appetite. It’s about creating spaces that reflect aspiration, individuality, and excellence.”
The store debuts its latest collection, anchored by breathable fabrics and bold detailing. Standouts include:
- The Ruby Collection by Rareism and Linen Men by Rare Rabbit – Both offer season-ready linen ensembles that blend structure with comfort.
- Rare’Z by Rare Rabbit introduces its open-footwear collection, crafted for comfort and elevated by contemporary styling, with suede, metallics, and graphic color blocking for a fashion-forward finish.
Designed with a modern, minimalist aesthetic, the Raipur store offers a warm, serene palette of beige tones and soft lighting. Plush, carpeted trial rooms, sleek black drapery, and a signature oval mirror add touches of luxury, while the layout ensures smooth navigation across menswear, womenswear, and kidswear sections. The overall ambiance speaks to the brand’s core philosophy, where simplicity, style, and substance converge.
Strategically located in Currency Tower, a premium lifestyle and shopping destination, the store is positioned to cater to a discerning clientele seeking quality, trend-conscious fashion in a refined retail environment.
11, Jul 2025
Malaka Spice Kharadi to Host a Rib-Tickling Comedy Night
Malaka Spice, Kharadi, in collaboration with Orange Comedy Club and Teacher’s Glasses, is set to light up Friday night with an unforgettable comedy evening on 11th July 2025. The event promises a vibrant mix of laughter, delectable food, and upbeat energy, making it the perfect plan to unwind and kickstart the weekend.
Guests can look forward to an entertaining lineup of stand-up comedians delivering sharp punchlines and relatable humour in a warm, laid-back setting. With an inviting ambience and curated menu, Malaka Spice will ensure the evening is as flavourful as it is funny. Bites and beverages will be served starting 8:00 PM, followed by the opening act at 8:30 PM.
“We’re excited to host a night that brings people together over food, laughter, and shared experiences,” said Ilvika Chandawarkar, Research and Business Development, Malaka Spice. “It’s all about good vibes and great memories.”
Entry is by reservation only, and limited seating is available. So, what you waiting for reserve your seats now and head to Malaka Spice Kharadi for a fun evening.
