Category Archives: Business

Samsung Expands Care to Cover Home Appliances in India

Samsung Expands Samsung Care+ Service to Include Warranty Plans for Home Appliances in India

Kochi, 20th October 2025: Samsung, India’s leading consumer electronics brand, today announced the expansion of its Samsung Care+ service to include Extended Warranty plans for home appliances including Refrigerators, Washing Machines, Air Conditioners, Microwave ovens, and Smart TVs. As celebrations fill homes across the country, Samsung aims to make this festive period even more rewarding by offering consumers greater peace of mind through enhanced protection and convenience. Customers can now choose from plans that range from 1-4 years, offering comprehensive protection and convenience, with prices starting as low as INR 2 per day.

The upgraded Samsung Care+ service also introduce industry-first coverage for software updates and screen malfunctions (with no physical damage). This ensures that customers have complete peace of mind, not only for hardware issues but also for software performance and display concerns, making Samsung Care+ the most comprehensive appliance protection programme in the industry.

“We are committed to enhancing the customer experience, elevating home appliances ownership with unique benefits such as software updates and screen malfunction coverage, while expanding availability of Samsung Care+ Extended Warranty plans across all channels,” said Ghufran Alam, Vice President, Digital Appliances, Samsung India.

Built on the pillars of Expertise, Reach, Reliability, Speed, Smart Service, Protection, and Sustainability, Samsung Care+ provides consumers access to over 13,000 Samsung-certified engineers, 2,500+ service centres, and 100% genuine Samsung parts, guaranteeing timely, high-quality service. Customers will get multi-lingual support in nine languages, while the Samsung app allows customers to track services and receive timely reminders for scheduled maintenance.

Celebrating India’s Entrepreneurial Spirit The 10th Edition of the ASCENT Conclave 2025

Mumbai, 18th October 2025: ASCENT Foundation, the peer-to-peer entrepreneurial learning platform founded and managed by Harsh Mariwala, Chairman of Marico Limited, proudly hosted the 10th Edition of its flagship event, the ASCENT Conclave, on Saturday, 11 October 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.

Since its inception in 2012, ASCENT Foundation has grown into one of India’s most trusted and vibrant platforms for entrepreneurial learning and collaboration. Today, it brings together over 1,000 entrepreneurs from more than 40 cities across India. These leaders who collectively represent a turnover exceeding INR 1,28,000 crore and employ more than 1,00,000 people, building a powerful ecosystem of shared growth and collective impact.

The ASCENT Conclave, over the past decade, has evolved into a celebration of India’s entrepreneurial energy, serving as a space where founders exchange ideas, share experiences and inspire one another to scale higher. The 10th edition was the largest yet, uniting more than 700 entrepreneurs for thought-provoking sessions, authentic storytelling and real-world insights on navigating the rapidly evolving business landscape.

Fostering Growth Through Shared Learning

At the heart of ASCENT lies a simple yet powerful belief  entrepreneurs grow stronger when they learn from one another. Through its peer group format, ASCENT has created a safe, non-competitive environment where business leaders openly share challenges and successes without fear or judgment. Beyond professional growth, ASCENT has also helped its members evolve personally  building self-awareness, resilience, and empathy, helping them become not just better entrepreneurs but better individuals.

“ASCENT was born out of the understanding that entrepreneurship can often be a lonely journey,” said Harsh Mariwala, Chairman, Marico Limited and Founder, ASCENT Foundation. “Through a robust network of trust and mutual learning, ASCENT has become a platform where entrepreneurs can share freely, collaborate meaningfully, and grow collectively. The 10th Edition of the Conclave is not just a milestone, but a reflection of how far Indian entrepreneurs have come  and how much further we can go together in building a Viksit Bharat.”

Adding to this, Priyanjali Mariwala, Lead Director, ASCENT Foundation, said, “Over the years, ASCENT has nurtured a community that thrives on authenticity and collaboration. It is a space where diverse entrepreneurs spanning across sectors and scales  come together to exchange ideas, challenge perspectives, and co-create solutions. The Conclave represents that spirit of collective learning and transformation.”

A Decade of Impact and Vision for 2047

The ASCENT community’s success stories reflect the multiplier effect of its model where one entrepreneur’s growth fuels opportunities for many others. By empowering 10 entrepreneurs who can in turn empower 10 more, ASCENT aims to build a cascading network of impact that strengthens India’s entrepreneurial backbone and contributes meaningfully to the nation’s $5 trillion economic aspiration.

As India proudly marches towards Viksit Bharat 2047, ASCENT continues to play a pivotal role in enabling entrepreneurs to capitalise on the “Indian opportunity”  fostering innovation, creating jobs, and driving sustainable growth.

A Platform for Ideas and Collaboration

The ASCENT Conclave 2025, in collaboration with Ideabaaz, a TV show that will serve as a national stage for Indian startups looking for support beyond fundraise, will amplify this spirit by providing a forum for founders to pitch, collaborate, and co-create innovative solutions. This unique partnership will encourage entrepreneurs to exchange ideas that could potentially reshape industries and contribute to India’s growth story.

Inspiring Voices, Transformative Conversations

This year’s Conclave featured inspiring voices such as Naseeruddin Shah, Veteran Actor and Theatre Artist; Pratik Gandhi, Actor and Host of Ideabaaz; Kapil Chopra, Founder of The Postcard Hotel and EazyDiner; Mithun Sacheti, Founder of CaratLane; and Pawan Kumar Chandana, Co-founder and CEO of Skyroot Aerospace, among others. They shared their experiences on discipline, innovation, and resilience, key ethos that mirror the entrepreneurial journey. Their stories reinforced the idea that whether in business, art, or sports, success stems from passion, perseverance and a constant pursuit of excellence.

As ASCENT marks a decade of fostering entrepreneurial learning, collaboration, and impact, the 10th ASCENT Conclave 2025 stands as a testament to India’s collective spirit of enterprise  a movement of founders helping founders, and a community that continues to power India’s growth story toward Viksit Bharat 2047.

Thomas Cook India Expands Senior Travel Segment with New Products and Partnerships

Thomas Cook India strengthens its position on high potential Senior’s Travel Segment through Product Innovation and Strategic Tie-ups 

Mumbai, October 18th, 2025: While a lot has been said about India’s young demographic, the country’s senior population is also witnessing unprecedented growth, with those aged 60 and above projected to reach 347 million by 2050, accounting for 21% of the total population (PwC-ASLI Senior Care Report 2024 and UNFPA 2023). Recognizing this significant demographic shift and the rising aspirations of the 55+ community, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s leading omnichannel travel services company, is strengthening its focus on this high-potential segment. 

India’s senior travellers today have the time and financial resources to travel. The overall growth in the economy has driven increased spending power, and the rise in nuclear families has resulted in seniors having more free time and accumulated income. This has led to a surge in demand for travel among the 55+ segment, which is now increasingly aspirational, adventurous, and experience-seeking.

In line with this growing demand, Thomas Cook India has partnered with Gen S Life, a leading lifestyle and community platform for the 55+ demographic. As part of this collaboration, the two brands will host an educational webinar, “Making Pilgrimage Travel Easy & Enjoyable for 55+” on Zoom on Wednesday, 29th October at 11 am. The free webinar is aimed at empowering senior travellers by addressing their unique travel needs through expert guidance. The session will feature renowned choreographer and traveller Sandip Soparrkar, along with Thomas Cook’s expert tour managers, offering practical travel tips, destination insights, and health advice tailored for senior travellers. 

Drawing from Thomas Cook’s extensive spiritual circuits across India and its subcontinent, including Varanasi, Prayagraj, Ayodhya, Mathura, Vrindavan, Bodh Gaya, Pokhara in Nepal and South India’s Madurai, Tirupati, Rameswaram and Kanyakumari — the experts will highlight how convenience and premium comfort are built into every journey: from guided tours and VIP darshans to AC vehicle transfers; aerial Char Dham helicopter journeys that allow seniors to complete the pilgrimage in just 4 days, significantly reducing travel fatigue compared to the traditional 10-day road trip. The company’s Pilgrimage Plus portfolio transforms spiritual travel into a holistic holiday experience, blending darshans with immersive local exploration such as sunset views from the ghats, boating on the Ganges, visits to weavers’ villages in Varanasi, and curated cuisine and cultural trails led by local experts. 

Attendees will also receive exclusive access to customized pilgrimage packages and special senior group offers.

To cater to the Seniors segment, Thomas Cook India will also be launching specialized Group Tours with itineraries which offer support for special dietary needs, handpicked elder friendly hotels with porterage, experienced tour managers accompaniment, entertainment evenings and high quality easy access vehicles to popular international destinations across Europe. 

Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head, Holidays, MICE, Visa  Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “In India, the silver economy is expanding rapidly in response to rising longevity, digital inclusion, and higher discretionary income. Seniors are no longer passive travellers; they are curious, confident, eager to explore and have both the means and the time to travel without compromise. 

Our holidays are designed to meet their evolving needs, offering comfort, safety, and enriching experiences. Whether it’s a spiritual journey or a leisure escape, our aim is to make travel seamless and enjoyable for the 55+ community. Our partnership with Gen S Life is a natural extension of this vision, combining our travel expertise with their deep understanding of senior lifestyles to create truly inclusive and empowering travel experiences.”

Ms. Meenakshi Menon, Founder of Gen S Life, said, “For many seniors, a pilgrimage is a deeply personal and significant journey, but the logistics can often be a deterrent. Our partnership with Thomas Cook brings together safety, convenience, and community, allowing seniors to travel without hesitation. This initiative embodies our commitment to helping our community embrace new experiences with enthusiasm and ease. Through this webinar, we aim to spark the confidence in seniors to continue exploring the world, one spiritual destination at a time”.

Gen S Life is an app that offers a comprehensive ecosystem of curated services for the 55+ across health, wellness, finance, travel, safety, support, events, community and more. With over 40K downloads and 15000+ registered users, the platform is committed to empower seniors to lead healthier, safer, more connected, and fulfilling lives. An early believer in the Gen S Life vision, Thomas Cook continues to bring our members exceptional travel experiences at exclusive rates.

Uttarakhand Hosts Pre-Summit to India–AI Impact Summit 2026, focusing on Responsible and Inclusive AI Growth

Dehradun, October 18, 2025: The Department of IT, Government of Uttarakhand, in collaboration with the India AI Mission, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India organised the Uttarakhand AI Impact Summit 2025 on October 17, 2025, at Hotel Ramada, Dehradun. This is an official pre-summit event of the India – AI Impact Summit 2026, scheduled to take place on February 19 – 20, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

Jointly hosted by the Department of IT, Government of Uttarakhand, the IndiaAI Mission, MeitY, the summit was inaugurated by Shri Jitin Prasada, Hon’ble Minister of State (MoS), MeitY, and was held in presence of Shri Nitesh Kumar Jha, Secretary, Information Technology, Government of Uttarakhand; Shri Mohammed Y. Safirulla, Director, IndiaAI Mission, MeitY; Dr. Durgesh Pant, Director General, UCOST; Prof. Ram Sharma, Vice Chancellor, UPES, Dehradun; Shri Sanjay Gupta, SIO, NIC; and Smt. Sharmishta Das, DDG & HOG, AI Division, NIC HQ.

Speaking at the event, Shri Jitin Prasada, Hon’ble MoS, MeitY & Commerce and Industry, said, “What nuclear technology once was to the last century, AI is to this one but this time, India is ensuring the opportunity belongs to everyone. We are making world-class computing power accessible at less than a dollar an hour, enabling research, innovation, and disruption for good. From managing the Kumbh with AI to transforming governance and education, Bharat is showing what was once unimaginable is now possible. This is the New Bharat – confident, capable, and leading the world in using technology for impact.”

Adding to this, Shri Nitesh Kumar Jha, Secretary, IT, Government of Uttarakhand, said, “ We are using AI regularly but the larger objective of the Government of India and our state is not just to use AI, but to create AI. Let us become creators of AI. We have established a Centre of Excellence and also set up the first Drone Applications Centre, where we are integrating AI into drone technology. For this, we have already received a national award this year from the Hon’ble Prime Minister.”

The pre-summit event brought together premier institutions, including IIT Roorkee, IIM Kashipur, the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, UPES, and STPI Dehradun. It featured presentations by AI-led startups supported by IIM Kashipur and STPI Dehradun, highlighting practical applications of AI in governance, entrepreneurship, and social impact.

A panel discussion moderated by Mr. Vivek Agrawal, Country Director, Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, featured Smt. Sharmishta Das, DDG & HOG, AI Division, NIC HQ; Dr. Safal Batra, CEO, FIED, IIM Kashipur; Dr. Durgesh Pant, Director General, UCOST, GoUK, Prof. Ram Sharma, Vice Chancellor, UPES, Dehradun and Dr. Azam Ali, CEO, TIDES, IIT Roorkee. The session explored the evolving landscape of AI, emphasizing the need to foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving among youth. It highlighted the importance of encouraging students to go on the ground, understand root causes, and design ideas that create real social impact. The discussion also called for deeper collaboration between academia, startups, and policymakers to strengthen responsible and efficient AI adoption for public good in Uttarakhand.`

The Uttarakhand AI Impact Summit 2025 set the stage for the India – AI Impact Summit 2026, the first global AI forum to be hosted in the Global South. Reflecting on India’s growing leadership in shaping the global AI agenda, the summit is anchored in the nation’s vision of “AI for All.” It seeks to harness the power of AI to drive social inclusion, innovation, and improved public service delivery, reinforcing India’s position as a global advocate for equitable, sustainable, and people-centric AI development.

About India – AI Impact Summit 2026

Hosted by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, the India – AI Impact Summit 2026 will be held on February 19-20, 2026, in New Delhi. The global platform is set to showcase the transformative role of AI in enabling inclusive development, sustainability, and fostering equitable progress. The Summit charts a path where AI serves humanity, advances inclusive growth, fosters social development, and promotes innovations that protect the planet.

The Three Sutras

The Summit will be anchored on three guiding principles or Sutras:

● People: AI must serve humanity in all its diversity, respecting cultural identities, preserving dignity, and ensuring no one is left behind. Focus areas include human development in an AI-enabled world, multilingual and accessible systems, and safe and trusted deployment.
● Planet: AI development and deployment must be resource-efficient while also accelerating climate resilience, environmental protection, and scientific discoveries. AI must align with planetary stewardship and global sustainability goals.
● Progress: Ensure equitable distribution of AI’s benefits, democratize access to datasets, compute, and models, and apply AI to healthcare, education, governance, and agriculture.

The Seven Chakras

The Sutras are translated into action through seven Chakras, areas of multilateral cooperation designed to deliver tangible outcomes:

1. Human Capital—Address employment, skilling, and workforce transformation. Develop global frameworks for literacy, reskilling, and equitable access to future skills.
2. Inclusion for Social Empowerment—Foster AI that reflects languages, cultures, and identities; ensure accessibility for persons with disabilities; prevent gender and data biases.
3. Safe and Trusted AI – Provide democratized access to safety testing, transparency, and auditing tools; build interoperable governance and assurance mechanisms.
4. Resilience, Innovation, and Efficiency—Promote resource-efficient AI, lightweight and adaptable to local realities, reducing disparities and environmental costs.
5. Science—Expand responsible use of AI to accelerate research and discovery; strengthen ecosystems and partnerships in the Global South; promote open, interdisciplinary research.
6. Democratizing AI Resources—Forge pathways for equitable access to data, compute, models, and critical infrastructure, enabling diverse AI solutions that reflect global realities.
7. AI for Economic Development & Social Good—Identify and scale AI applications in public interest sectors; create platforms for knowledge and resource sharing; enable cross-border collaboration.

As AI adoption increases around the world, the AI Impact Summit charts a discourse around the measurable impact of AI, highlighting India’s role as a global convener for the Global South and beyond. Bringing together world leaders, innovators, policymakers, and industry pioneers, the Summit will shape a shared vision for AI that truly serves the many, not just the few.

The Art of Festive Season Styling with Ishita Mangal

A Diamond Is Forever celebrates India’s modern festive spirit through timeless style and self-expression

New Delhi, 17 September 2025: It’s that magical time of year again with homes aglow with diyas, the air scented with marigolds and laughter echoing from one festive gathering to the next. But as the celebrations begin, one question stands out: what will you wear this season?

This year, A Diamond Is Forever — the new digital platform celebrating timeless beauty and modern individuality — partners with fashion designer and content creator Ishita Mangal to decode 2025’s festive style. Using social media data to uncover what India is really wearing now, Ishita has styled two full looks according to what trends have endured over the past five years and what trends are emerging in 2025.

“Festive fashion today is about finding that sweet spot between nostalgia and novelty,” Ishita, who boasts almost 2 million followers across her social platforms, shares. “It’s less about following trends and more about wearing your story with confidence.”

“This festive season, style isn’t about choosing between tradition and modernity, it’s about celebrating both,” says Nishita Fiji, Editor at A Diamond Is Forever. “Ishita captures the spirit of today’s generation: confident, expressive, and deeply connected to cultural roots.”

Decoding 2025’s Festive Fashion Trends

Diwali Dressing: Maximalist or Minimalist?

Gold and metallic tones continue to dominate Diwali wardrobes — searches for “gold dress” and “sequin outfit” have spiked 2–3× every October–November since 2020, while smoky and cat-eye makeup looks are up 50% YoY for five years running. Velvet blouses, meanwhile, have seen 2× higher search interest each festive season since 2022.

At the same time, new trends are reshaping the sparkle. Searches for “recycled fabric Diwali outfits” have surged 80% over the past two years, and “crop top saree” queries are up 120% YoY, led by Instagram Reels.

“Diwali fashion has always been about drama and light,” Ishita says. “Now, people want that impact — but with intention. A mix of statement pieces and sustainability.”

Her first look embodies classic glamour: a shimmering gold-sequined saree, layered with gold and diamond necklaces. The second, a red brocade ensemble, channels conscious opulence through recycled fabrics and dramatic makeup — “proof,” Ishita laughs, “that maximalism can be mindful.”

Navratri Styling: The Gen Z Way

Chaniya cholis continue their reign, with styling searches up 20–25% YoY every September, while “oxidised silver earrings” record 2–3× spikes in Gujarat and Maharashtra. But younger audiences are giving tradition a remix. “Sneakers with lehenga” searches are up 90% YoY, and “neon makeup palettes” are up 150%, reflecting how Gen Z is fusing comfort with creativity.

“Navratri is where tradition gets playful,” Ishita shares. “It’s colourful, expressive, and totally individual — from mirrorwork sets to kamarbandhs paired with sneakers.”
Her first look embraces the vibrancy of Gujarat’s Garba culture: rich patchwork, mirrorwork, and oxidised silver jewellery. Her second channels the mix-and-match fusion movement: a vibrant chaniya choli worn with sneakers and a statement kamarbandh, the traditional waist accessory making a major comeback this year.

Karva Chauth: The Power of Red, Reinvented

Some things never fade. Every October, searches for “red saree” and “Karva Chauth outfit” rise 3–4×, while “Karva Chauth mehendi” and “gold mangalsutra” remain among India’s top festive queries.

But new interpretations are emerging fast — “Karva Chauth gowns” are up 110% YoY, and “bracelet-style mangalsutras” have risen 70% in 18 months, signalling a shift toward modern minimalism.

“There’s something deeply emotional about red — it’s timeless,” Ishita reflects. “But women are reimagining it. The red lehenga and the diamond mangalsutra now coexist — both symbols of celebration, both full of meaning.”

Her first look celebrates the classic: a red lehenga with gold embroidery and Kundan pearls. The second offers a contemporary twist — a crimson gown with a diamond-accented mangalsutra, soft makeup, and clean sindoor line — for a look that’s as rooted as it is refined.

The Future of Festive Fashion

Across festivals, one theme stands out: India’s growing love for blending old and new. Enduring styles such as sequins, silks, and red lehengas remain beloved, but sustainable fabrics, minimal diamonds, and fusion silhouettes are redefining how people express festive joy.

“Fashion is no longer about following a trend,” Ishita says. “It’s about creating one that feels true to you.”

Explore the full campaign and all six festive looks at here.

American Tourister: Made in Nashik. For the World

Mumbai, October, 2025: American Tourister has rolled out its new campaign, “Made in Nashik. For the World,” a film that profiles the city behind the brand’s global journey. At Nashik the brands largest factory in the world craftsmanship and skill come alive. This campaign is a tribute to the pride, scale, and people who power American Tourister’s journey as a global travel icon.

The TVC portrayed through the worker’s lens at the Nashik plant where the precision of manufacturing craft blends seamlessly with the vibrant craft and culture of Nashik  from riverbanks to bazaars, from the beat of the dhol to the beauty of Paithani the campaign captures the heart of Nashik in every detail. This narrative captures how the city’s deep-rooted tradition of craftsmanship flows through the factory each day, personified by the perseverance of people who drive the brand forward.

Each worker brings expertise, skill, and passion to their craft, creating products that journey to millions of customers worldwide. With 25,000 families connected to the brand, the film highlights how an entire community puts its heart and soul into building luggage that represents India on the global stage.

“Scale here is more than numbers it’s a symbol of pride. Nashik is home to American Tourister’s largest manufacturing facility, where over 60 lakh units take shape every year. This factory also shapes Samsonite’s other iconic brands, making Nashik a place where local craftsmanship meets global travel dreams.”  Every piece of luggage that leaves Nashik is both a testament to its people’s heritage and proof of the city’s role as a powerhouse of modern manufacturing.

 “Our aim is to make every Indian swell with pride upon seeing an American Tourister. This is not luggage this is Nashik’s skill, fuelling global travel,” says Anushree Tainwala, Executive Director – Marketing, Samsonite South Asia. “The campaign reflects our deep gratitude to the thousands of hands and hearts in Nashik whose dedication has helped American Tourister earn the trust of travelers across the world. By showcasing their stories and celebrating their heritage, we want every consumer to know that behind every journey stands the spirit of Nashik,” she adds.

Nashik has long been celebrated for its temples, its music, and its cinema legends. Today, it also powers the world’s travel. Every bag that rolls out of the Nashik plant is a story of skill, tradition, and community a symbol that says: When Nashik moves, the world moves with it.

Cumin Co. Launches Festive Campaign ‘Aayna’, Celebrating Gifts That Reflect Who We Are

New Delhi, 17th October 2025: This festive and wedding season, Cumin Co. unveils ‘Aayna’, a heartfelt campaign that reimagines gifting as a reflection of who we are — our traditions, emotions, and stories. With thoughtfully curated cookware and limited-edition bundles, Aayna celebrates gifts that carry meaning, memory, and legacy.

In Hindi, Aayna means “mirror”, and Cumin Co. brings this idea to life by turning every gift into a reflection of the giver’s thoughtfulness and the receiver’s warmth. Each piece — from enamelled cast iron cookware to timeless tableware — draws from India’s rich culinary heritage while being perfectly suited to modern homes.

“At Cumin Co., we believe gifting should endure — it’s not just about what you give, but what it stands for,” said Udit Lekhi, Co-Founder of Cumin Co. “Through Aayna, we’re celebrating gifts that outlast trends — heirloom-worthy pieces that can be passed down, much like the memories they’re part of.”

Niharika Joshi, Co-Founder of Cumin Co., added, “Aayna is especially close to our hearts this season — it’s for festive gatherings, for weddings, for every table that brings people together. Each product is crafted with warmth and care, making every gift a token of love that reflects the giver’s emotion.”

From intimate wedding favours to grand festive hampers, the campaign offers curated gifting bundles that blend tradition with contemporary design. Select collections include a Silver Coin by GIVA, symbolizing prosperity and timeless value, perfect for festive and wedding gifting alike.

With weddings becoming more personal and meaningful, Cumin Co. offers couples and families a way to celebrate love through gifts that last, thoughtful keepsakes that mirror shared traditions and new beginnings. Each piece is designed to be both beautiful and purposeful; crafted from Cumin Co.’s signature triple-patented, truly non-toxic enamel cast iron that’s built to last generations.

Engineered for modern kitchens yet rooted in Indian craftsmanship, Cumin Co.’s products combine timeless design with health-conscious innovation; cookware that’s as safe as it is stunning. With its elegant packaging and artisanal detailing, Aayna transforms cookware into keepsakes — embodying care, celebration, and connection.

The Aayna Gifting Campaign by Cumin Co. is now available for both personal and corporate gifting is a meaningful way to celebrate the season of togetherness, from Diwali to weddings and beyond.

Green Business Certification Inc. Celebrates the 2025 Class of LEED Fellows

India, 16th october 2025: Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), the premier organization independently recognizing excellence in green business industry performance and practice globally, has announced the 2025 class of LEED Fellows. Twenty-three professionals from around the world are being recognized for their mastery of LEED, the world’s most widely used green building rating system, and exceptional work in advancing green building practices. 

This year’s class includes professionals in the built environment representing 10 countries and territories from Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and North America. They include consultants, architects, real estate developers, and professionals in construction. The LEED Fellow distinction is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated expert-level technical knowledge and a history of exemplary leadership, commitment and service over a minimum of 10 years as a LEED professional. 

“LEED Fellows are distinguished and accomplished green building professionals who have demonstrated a commitment to LEED and green building,” said Peter Templeton, president and CEO, GBCI and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). “The 23 LEED Fellows who will be recognized at this year’s Greenbuild are distinguished leaders whose work is shaping a more sustainable built environment for communities across the globe.”

LEED credentials enable professionals to learn the principles of the LEED rating system and their applicability to projects. They also provide opportunities for continued education on new technologies, innovative solutions and evolving demands. With more than 203,000 LEED credential holders worldwide, the program creates a large international network of professionals to share best practices and opportunities. 

Candidates for LEED Fellow are nominated by their peers and undergo an extensive review by a committee comprised of current LEED Fellows, which recommends finalists to the GBCI Board of Directors. Candidates must demonstrate expert-level technical proficiency, as well as exceptional impact in education and mentoring, leadership, commitment and service, and advocacy over a minimum of 10 years as a LEED professional. 

The 2025 LEED Fellows will be recognized in Los Angeles on Wednesday, Nov. 5, at the USGBC Leadership Awards Celebration held in conjunction with the annual Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, the largest gathering of green building industry leaders and experts. To explore further opportunities for professional credentials in green building, visit the LEED Professional Credentials page. 

Marseli Opens Café & Patisserie in HSR Layout

Marseli Debuts in HSR Layout  A Café & Patisserie Born as a Heartfelt Tribute to a Mentor

Bangalore, India 16th 2025 : Bangalore’s café culture welcomes a unique new entrant with the launch of Marseli Café & Patisserie in HSR Layout. More than just another café, Marseli represents a deeply personal journey: it is a living tribute by Chef Suresh Kumar M, a seasoned chef and entrepreneur, to his late mentor, Chef Marseli.

Having spent 17 years working in London’s (United Kingdom) kitchens, training in Italian, French, Moroccan, and Middle Eastern cuisines, and later co-founding Leon’s Burgers and Wings — one of Bangalore’s most loved QSR brands — Chef Suresh now brings a slower, more artisanal vision to life with Marseli. The café embodies the ethos instilled in him by Chef Marseli: food made with honesty, respect for ingredients, and an unwavering pursuit of authenticity.

“Marseli is more than a café – it’s a tribute, a legacy, and a promise. A tribute to my mentor, a legacy of authentic European cooking, and a promise to our customers that everything we serve is made with honesty and craft,” says Chef Suresh, Founder, Marseli.

Supporting this vision is Co-Founder Uday Rao P, an entrepreneur, passionate foodie, and avid traveller who successfully ran three Leon’s franchises. With keen business insight and a hands-on approach, Uday strengthens Marseli’s ability to balance artisanal craft with operational excellence.

At the heart of Marseli is its expansive menu  more than 300 offerings that bring the spirit of European café culture to Bangalore in a way never seen before. Unlike most cafés that depend on frozen imports or pre-prepared bases, Marseli’s philosophy is rooted in making everything in-house, from scratch, every single day.

Breads are the foundation of the menu, slow-fermented and baked fresh each morning. Guests will find a complete repertoire, from rustic sourdoughs and classic baguettes to buttery brioche, ciabatta, and focaccia. The same commitment carries into Marseli’s handmade pastas and pizzas, where fresh doughs and sauces form the backbone of simple, authentic dishes.

The patisserie counter showcases the jewel-like artistry of the kitchen — macarons, tarts, cheesecakes, danishes, meringues, and the signature babka are arranged like edible art, each reflecting the precision and patience of European training. They also offer a selection of decadent  gelatos. For those seeking heartier fare, the café offers an all-day dining experience that spans French toast, crepes, smoothie bowls, sandwiches, soups, salads, and even full English breakfast platters. With this range, Marseli is as much a destination for an indulgent dessert as it is for a wholesome meal.

Every dish on the menu embodies the same principle: respect for craft, time, and ingredients. In doing so, Marseli introduces Bangalore to a style of artisanal dining that is as accessible as it is authentic.

Beverage  From Espresso Rituals to Modern Indulgences

The beverage program is designed to complement the food with equal attention to detail. Coffee lovers can choose from classic espressos, cappuccinos, and pour-overs, while those seeking variety will find matcha, teas, hot chocolate, fresh juices, indulgent milkshakes, and inventive mocktails. Each beverage is treated as part of the overall experience, crafted with the same philosophy of precision and care that defines the menu.

Design  Where Food is the Hero

Marseli’s interiors were conceived as a “slice of Europe in Bangalore.” The design is minimal and timeless, with a warm neutral palette, natural textures, and soft lighting that make the food the centerpiece. The patisserie counter, inspired by Parisian and Milanese cafés, acts as a focal point — an edible art gallery where pastries and desserts gleam like jewels. Seating zones offer versatility: intimate nooks for quiet conversations, airy communal spaces for gatherings, and inviting corners for solo work. A curated soundscape of soft jazz and acoustic notes rounds out the European café atmosphere.

Chef Suresh’s entrepreneurial journey began with Leon’s Burgers, a brand that scaled quickly and became synonymous with Bangalore’s fast-food culture. Marseli represents a counterpoint: where Leon’s taught him the importance of speed, consistency, and operational excellence, Marseli allows him to return to craft, patience, and heritage. Together, these experiences shape a café that is at once artisanal and efficiently run.

Building a Legacy of Authenticity

Marseli Café & Patisserie launches its flagship in HSR Layout — a vibrant hub for startups and young professionals, chosen for its dynamic, aspirational community. The vision extends well beyond one outlet: Chef Suresh envisions Marseli as India’s benchmark for artisanal cafés, expanding across Bangalore and into key metros while staying rooted in its core philosophy of authenticity.

Building Consumer Confidence: How Responsible Brands Protect Buyers from False Advertising

💡 Introduction: Why Authenticity Matters More Than Ever

In the modern wellness market, credibility isn’t optional — it’s essential. With so many new brands entering the space, consumers have learned to look beyond trendy packaging and focus on authenticity, accuracy, and transparency.

That’s why reputable brands like Deja Vu Dream Bar stand out. Their approach to honest marketing, clear labeling, and verified quality demonstrates that real trust comes from putting consumer safety first.

🧾 How Brands Uphold Truth in Labeling and Marketing

Every responsible company follows a few key principles to maintain transparency and protect their customers:

• ✅ Accurate Product Representation – Every label and description must reflect the true contents and intended purpose.
• 🧪 Verifiable Quality Standards – Brands that test and validate their ingredients offer greater assurance of safety and consistency.
• 📦 Legitimate Packaging – Secure seals, batch tracking, and clear expiration dates ensure that each product is authentic.
• 🛒 Authorized Sellers Only – Purchasing from official sites or approved retailers prevents exposure to fraudulent or low-quality imitations.

When brands communicate clearly and back their claims with real data, customers can shop with confidence — knowing they’re supporting integrity over hype.

⚖️ The Legal Side: Protecting Consumers from Deceptive Practices

False or misleading advertising doesn’t just damage trust — it can lead to serious legal consequences. A California Consumer Protection Attorney helps brands understand and comply with marketing laws while giving consumers a framework to hold dishonest sellers accountable.

These legal experts help enforce:

• Truth-in-advertising and labeling regulations
• Consumer-rights protections against fraud
• Online-sales and e-commerce transparency requirements
• Fair refund and dispute-resolution policies

Compliance not only protects the brand — it protects every customer who expects honesty from the companies they support.

🌿 Deja Vu Dream Bar: A Case Study in Transparency

The Deja Vu Dream Bar embodies what modern wellness consumers are looking for — responsible branding, transparent communication, and a commitment to verified quality. Each product is crafted to meet rigorous safety and labeling standards, reflecting a culture of integrity that defines the new era of wellness.

By investing in quality assurance and consumer education, brands like Deja Vu Dream Bar ensure their customers always know exactly what they’re getting — and why it matters.

💬 Final Thoughts

Trust isn’t built overnight. It’s earned through consistent honesty, strong compliance practices, and open communication with consumers.

Responsible wellness brands prove that when transparency meets quality, everyone benefits — the brand grows, and the customer feels safe and informed.