Category Archives: Business

How to Host a 2025-Era Diwali: Products to Simplify Your Celebration

India,14th oct 2025: As the festive lights shimmer and the air fills with the scent of sweets, it’s time to welcome the joy and togetherness that Diwali brings. This Diwali, go beyond the diyas and sweets, make your celebrations smarter, sustainable, and effortlessly elegant. Whether you are hosting a family dinner, a card night, or just decking up your home, here are four products that add a modern touch to your festive hosting.

1. Voltas Beko 25L Convection Microwave Oven  For Effortless Festive Feast

With its 10 auto-cook programs, digital display, and Active Defrost technology, this sleek microwave helps you whip up quick snacks and reheat festive delicacies perfectly. From crispy samosas to soft gulab jamuns everything’s ready in minutes, letting you focus on your guests, not the cooking.

2. Polycab Vigaro Clear LED Gate Light  For Lighting That Welcomes Prosperity

Your guests’ first impression starts at the door  and nothing says “Diwali-ready” like a beautifully lit entrance. The Polycab Vigaro Clear LED Gate Light brings a warm white glow that instantly adds charm to balconies, gardens, or pathways. Elegant yet durable, it’s the perfect way to set a festive mood while keeping your home eco-friendly. 

3. Dyson Purifier Cool Gen1  For Fresh Air and Clear Celebrations

With festive lights come firecrackers and sometimes, unwanted pollution. The Dyson Purifier Cool Gen1 ensures your guests breathe easy this Diwali. It removes dust, smoke, and allergens while keeping your space cool and comfortable. A sleek blend of innovation and wellness, it’s the ultimate addition to a modern Indian home during the festive season. 

4. Philips Smart Wi-Fi LED Bulbs  For Mood Lighting That Matches Every Moment 

Transform your home into a light show of your own with Philips Smart Wi-Fi Bulbs. Control brightness, switch between colours, and set ambient tones  all through your smartphone or voice commands. Whether it’s a bright, lively card night or a warm family dinner, your lights can match the vibe instantly. 

This Diwali, blend tradition with technology from smart lighting to quick cooking and eco-conscious décor and host your most modern, meaningful celebration yet. 

Bowlers Teams Up with Shubman Gill to Champion Pet Parenting in India with New Campaign Film

Kolkata, 13th October 2025: Bowlers, India’s trusted dog nutrition brand from Allana Pet Solutions (APS), the pet food division of Allana Consumer Products Ltd. (ACPL), celebrates the bond between pets and their parents with cricket icon Shubman Gill as brand ambassador. The campaign draws a heartfelt parallel between cricket and pet parenting. Just as every Batsman needs a bowler to win, every pet needs a caring parent to provide the right nutrition, companionship, and love. Bowlers aims to ensure every pet receives the nutrition they deserve to thrive.

The campaign features Shubman Gill in an unexpected role, not as a batsman but as a bowler, symbolizing how pets are “bowled over” by the love and care of their parents. Drawing on cricket’s timeless partnership between bowler and batsman, the film uses this bond as a metaphor for the relationship between dogs and their families. Just as every bowler needs a batsman to complete the game, every dog relies on its parent for the right nutrition, care, and companionship to live their healthiest, happiest lives.

This partnership with Shubman Gill kicks off an exciting series of campaigns rolling out over the coming months through to the new year. Pet parents across India can look forward to immersive digital experiences, vibrant regional outreach programs and engaging contests offering exclusive signed merchandise from Shubman Gill. This partnership with him kicks off an exciting series of films within this campaign rolling out over the coming months through to the new year.

The campaign will also feature extensive presence across OOH, radio collaborations, sampling with RWAs (Resident Welfare Association), cricket tournaments and cinema advertisements creating awareness around balanced nutrition because every pet deserves the right nutrition, and every pet parent deserves trusted guidance.

Nitin Kulkarni, Business Head, Allana Pet Solutions, ACPL, said, ” Our partnership with Shubman Gill marks an exciting milestone in Bowlers’ journey to make quality pet nutrition synonymous with pet care across India. With pet ownership rising across metros and expanding into tier 2 and 3 cities, Shubman’s influence and aspirational connect align seamlessly with our vision of making premium, science-backed nutrition accessible and affordable to pet parents nationwide. His values of discipline, performance, and excellence mirror what we stand for at Bowlers, and every product reflects our commitment to quality, safety, and the well-being of dogs nationwide.”

Shubman Gill embodies the aspirations of India’s new generation of pet parents, Gen Z and Millennials who prioritize health, lifestyle, and informed choices for their pets. His partnership with Bowlers reinforces the brand’s journey to make premium nutrition synonymous with pet care and to expand the pet food category across India, making it accessible to every Indian household.

Shubman Gill, Skipper, Indian Test Cricket Team, said, “Just like athletes rely on optimal nutrition for peak performance, our pets deserve balanced, science-backed food to live healthier, happier lives. I am thrilled to partner with Bowlers to inspire a new era of mindful pet parenting across India.”

Bowlers offers a range of dry and wet food tailored for puppies, adults, and large breeds, alongside care and treat offerings like high-protein jerky treats and meat bars. Every recipe is developed with veterinary nutritionists, tailored to India’s climate and pet needs, and crafted with end-to-end quality control from sourcing to packaging. All products are manufactured at Asia’s largest automated pet food plant in Zaheerabad, Telangana.

Boomburger Expands Its Menu with a Global Line Up of Wraps

Mumbai, 13th October 2025: In a bold leap from its cult-favorite gourmet burgers to an all-new handheld format, Boomburger has unveiled its latest innovation, a global range of wraps that promises to redefine the category. Curated by Chef Harsh Garg, Founder and Head Chef at Boomburger, the new lineup brings together bold, international flavours in a convenient format, flavour-forward, and unmistakably “Boom.” “Most wraps are functional but forgettable,” says Chef Garg. “We wanted to reverse that – each wrap is a complete flavour journey, not just a convenience.”

The menu features both vegetarian and non-vegetarian creations inspired by global cuisines, from the Falafel Shawarma Wrap with house-made hummus and feta to the Korean Paneer Wrap layered with gochujang, sriracha mayo, and Boom’s signature kimchi slaw. Other highlights include the Pesto Paneer Wrap with caramelised onions and eggplant, the fiery Spicy Buffalo Chicken Wrap, and the indulgent Buffalo Cheeseburger Wrap, which brings together crumbled buffalo patties, Boom sauce, and burger pickles for a wrap experience that’s all flavour, no compromise.

Boomburger’s latest launch reflects its continued commitment to flavour innovation and culinary storytelling. Founded in 2022 by Harsh Garg, a finance professional turned chef, Boomburger began as a pandemic-era experiment and quickly evolved into a phenomenon for food lovers. After years in the corporate world, Garg traded spreadsheets for spatulas, determined to build a brand that challenged the monotony of fast food. From its first cloud kitchen in Mumbai, Boomburger won over audiences with its unconventional take on comfort food, think Boeuf Bourguignon in a bun, Thai Green Curry burgers, and now, wraps that deliver the same innovation in a portable form.

“Great flavour should surprise you, elevate you, and stay with you, even in the most portable formats,” Garg adds. “With these wraps, we wanted to prove that you don’t have to trade depth for convenience. Each one is meant to make you pause mid-bite and think, ‘Wait! how is this happening in a wrap?’”

From the fiery Korean Buff Bulgogi Wrap to the rich Pesto Chicken Wrap, every bite carries Boomburger’s signature balance of texture, spice, and depth. These are not just wraps; they’re culinary passports – global, gutsy, and crafted for the Indian appetite. Designed for both on-the-go indulgence and sit-down satisfaction, the range underscores Boomburger’s evolution from a burger joint into a full-blown “flavour lab” redefining comfort food, one bite at a time.

Glen India Introduces the Next Generation of Hobs with Direct Flame Venturi System (DFVS)

New Delhi, 13th October 2025: Glen India, one of the country’s leading kitchen appliance brands, has unveiled its latest innovation – the DFVS Hob Series. This next-generation range redefines how Indian households cook – ensuring faster results, superior heat control, and exceptional safety, all wrapped in a sleek, modern design.

At the core of this innovation lies the Direct Flame Venturi System, where the injector is vertically mounted to release LPG through a specially engineered flame spreader with a Venturi. This unique design ensures uniform combustion, precise blue flames, and even heat distribution, resulting in quicker cooking and optimized fuel use.

“Indian cooking demands versatility – from intense heat for tadka to slow simmering for curries, especially with the ongoing festive season. Through DFVS, we’ve engineered a system that delivers both performance and control, while being fuel-efficient and durable,” said Rintu Dasgupta, COO, Glen Appliances.

Key Highlights of the Glen DFVS Hob Series

• Maximum Flame Efficiency: Direct flame transfer for optimal heat and reduced cooking time.
• Fuel Savings: Uniform combustion minimizes LPG wastage.
• Even Heat Distribution: Perfect for the variety and intensity of Indian cooking styles.
• Modern Aesthetics: Sleek design with premium alloy knobs and 8 mm toughened glass top.
• Built to Last: Forged brass burners, vitreous enameled supports, and 5-year glass warranty ensure durability and safety.

The DFVS collection includes models such as BH 1063 DF HT TR, BH 1073 DF HT MTR 70, BH 1094 XL DF HT 2TR, these are available in 3 & 4 burner configurations. Each model offers flexibility to be used as a built-in hob or hob top, and features multi-spark auto ignition, vitreous enameled pan supports and sleek, functional design. The series is priced between INR23,995 – INR41,995, catering to a wide range of kitchen layouts and cooking needs. These hobs are available across all Glen Galleries, leading retail stores, and online platforms.

FETOMAT 2025: Intl. Maternal-Fetal Medicine Conference Kicks Off in Thiruvananthapuram

FETOMAT 2025: Two-Day International conference on advancements in Maternal-Fetal Medicine begins in Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram, October 13, 2025: The two-day international conference of maternal-fetal medicine specialists, ‘FETOMAT 2025’, commenced in Thiruvananthapuram. The conference, jointly organized by the Departments of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, and Obstetrics and Gynecology, KIMSHEALTH, in association with the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), UK, was inaugurated by Dr. M.I. Sahadulla, Chairman and Managing Director, KIMSHEALTH. Over 250 medical professionals from all over the world are participating.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Sahadulla expressed happiness over Kerala’s significant progress in perinatal care and the opportunity to host an international conference that brings together leading experts from across the globe. He emphasized that the insights and ideas discussed at the event should be implemented on a global scale to enhance maternal and fetal health outcomes.

Even as Kerala maintains exemplary perinatal care standards, the rising rate of suicides contributing to maternal mortality was a key topic of discussion. Focusing on the mental well-being of expectant mothers, the state’s first comprehensive private-sector Perinatal Mental Health Clinic at KIMSHEALTH, ‘Manasi’, was inaugurated during the conference by Dr. Uma Ram, All India Chair of RCOG (AICC). The clinic will provide holistic emotional and psychological support for pregnant and postpartum women.

Dr. Vidyalekshmy R, Senior Consultant, Department of High-Risk Pregnancy and Perinatology, and Organising Secretary of FETOMAT-2025, delivered the welcome address. Dr. Sajith Mohan R., Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, KIMSHEALTH, proposed the vote of thanks.

Dr. John Smoleniec, Conjoint Professor, Maternal Fetal Medicine, Liverpool Hospital,  New South Wales, Australia, and Dr. Suresh S, Director of Mediscan, Chennai, were also part of the event.

The conference featuring over 50 expert sessions focusing on current challenges and recent advancements in maternal-fetal medicine, will conclude on Sunday, October 12.

Tripura Shines as Northeast’s Innovation Hub at Tamil Nadu Startup Summit 2025

Mumbai / Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, Oct 13, 2025: The Tamil Nadu Global Startup Summit 2025, held at the CODISSIA Trade Fair Complex, Coimbatore, concluded with remarkable outcomes of INR 100 crore in investment commitments, participation from 20+ global startup stakeholders and speakers, and a record 71,000  visitors.

Organised by StartupTN, the summit served as a vibrant platform for global investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to collaborate and chart the future of India’s innovation economy. Amid the stellar participation, Tripura emerged as a standout performer, showcasing how a small Northeastern state is building sustained momentum, inclusivity, and impact in the national startup landscape.

Delivering an inspiring address at the summit, Shri Jeya Ragul Geshan B., IFS, Director, IT, Government of Tripura, highlighted Tripura’s rapid evolution as a regional startup leader driven by vision, policy innovation, and measurable outcomes.

“Tripura stands at an important inflexion point. In alignment with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of a $5 trillion economy by 2028 & achieving Vikshit Bharat by 2047, we are determined to play a strategic role in India’s innovation-led growth story under the leadership of our Hon’ble Chief Minister, Prof. (Dr) Manik Saha,” said Shri Geshan.

“Our vision is clear: to build an Unnato and Shreshtho Tripura, where entrepreneurship is not a privilege but a pathway to prosperity. Each state may be at a different stage of its startup journey, but our common goal is to democratize innovation and take opportunity to every corner of India, including smaller and border states like ours.”

As per the December 2024 Startup India report ‘Prabhaav: Startup India 9-Year Factbook’, Tripura has maintained an impressive 66% average growth rate in startup recognitions over the past five years. We also lead in two crucial categories: top-performing Tier 2/3 districts and the highest number of women-led startups in the Northeast. These results are proof that consistency, clarity, and collaboration can transform intent into impact.”

Tripura: From Policy Pioneer to Performance Leader

Tripura was among the first Northeastern states to adopt a Startup Policy/Scheme (2019), establishing a robust foundation for structured entrepreneurial development. It was recognized as a Category B – Leader in the Startup India State Ranking 2022. The Tripura Startup Policy 2024 builds on this success with a dedicated INR 50 crore around fund for aspiring entrepreneurs, startup grants for students and incubators, and patent support for innovators.

The State currently hosts over 80 recognised startups and 8 active incubators, including the ISRO-supported Space Tech Incubation Centre at NIT Agartala and the Tripura University Business Incubator, creating an institutional ecosystem that nurtures innovation from idea to scale.

A Strategic Gateway to Southeast Asia

With its approx. 41 lakh population, more than 94% literacy rate, and unique international connectivity, Tripura is positioning itself as the gateway to Southeast Asia, leveraging trade routes like the Agartala–Akhaura rail link and Integrated Check Posts to provide startups direct access to ASEAN markets.

Its startups are pioneering solutions in agri-tech, bamboo-based products, green packaging, eco-tourism, and fintech, aligning local strengths with global opportunities.

IT as the Core Driver of Growth

Tripura’s growing IT ecosystem, supported by India’s third-highest high-speed internet connectivity, the Tripura IT Incentive Scheme (2017), and the International Internet Gateway in Agartala, is enabling digital transformation beyond metros.

“Our goal is to blend IT with entrepreneurship, to empower every district with digital tools, startup resources, and market access,” said Shri Geshan. “Tripura is not waiting for change; we are continuously building momentum, adding capacity, and moving decisively on the path of progress.”

Collaboration as the Way Forward

Tripura emphasised its commitment to cross-state collaboration, proposing partnerships with Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Assam for deep-tech, agri-tech, and green innovation, as well as shared venture funding and joint innovation challenges.

“Tripura may be small, but our intent is always BIG. Tripura is proving that innovation does not need to be metro-centric  it needs to be mission-driven,” Shri Geshan concluded.

The Tamil Nadu Global Startup Summit 2025 thus became a defining platform showcasing how emerging innovation states like Tripura are adding fresh energy, resilience, and diversity to India’s global startup movement.

India to Host 8th Session of Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs in Guwahati

Guwahati, Assam| 13th Oct, 2025: India, the “Spice Bowl of the World,” is set to host the 8th Session of the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH8) from 13 to 17 October 2025 at Hotel Vivanta, Guwahati. Organized by the Spices Board, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, this global meeting reaffirms India’s leadership in setting international standards for spices and culinary herbs.

Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Hon’ble Governor of Assam will inaugurate the CCSCH 8 on 13th October 2025. The session will bring together international delegates, policymakers, scientists, and trade experts from Codex member countries to deliberate on global standards that ensure the safety, quality, and fair trade of spices and herbs. Around 140 delegates from 38 countries are expected to attend the session.

Hosting CCSCH8 in Guwahati highlights India’s commitment to strengthening Codex initiatives and promoting spice diversity from the North-eastern region—home to unique indigenous varieties. Assam, known for its breathtaking landscapes, world-renowned tea gardens, and rich cultural heritage, provides a fitting backdrop for this global gathering.

As the host, India continues to play a pivotal role in developing Codex standards for spices and culinary herbs, ensuring consumer protection and facilitating fair international trade.

V-Guard Launches ‘Edam’ Counselling Hub in Kochi for Women’s Mental Health

Kochi, October 10, 2025: As part of its ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, V-Guard Industries Ltd. has launched Edam, a free counselling centre for women in Kochi, in collaboration with Welfare Services Ernakulam (Sahrudaya). The centre was inaugurated on World Mental Health Day, underscoring the need for accessible mental health care tailored for women. The inaugural ceremony was held in Kochi, with Hibi Eden, MP, formally inaugurating the initiative, and Dr. Reenaa Mithun Chittilappilly presiding over the event.

National and international health studies have consistently shown that women are disproportionately affected by stress, depression, and anxiety. Recognising this urgent need, Edam aims to provide a safe and supportive space where women can seek professional counselling, emotional support, and guidance — completely free of charge.

“Along with development in society, the mental health of its people is equally important. However, many are still unwilling to open up about the mental difficulties they experience. Even today, there remains a stigma around us. In this context, the initiative ‘Edam’ launched by V-Guard Industries Limited in collaboration with Sahrudaya is indeed a significant step forward,” said Hibi Eden, MP, while speaking at the inauguration.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Reenaa Mithun Chittilappilly said, “Through Edam, we want to break the silence around mental health and ensure that women have access to the care and support they deserve. This initiative is an extension of V-Guard’s commitment to fostering healthier and more resilient communities. Women often carry invisible burdens while balancing roles at home, at work, and in society. With Edam, we want to give them a safe space to pause, reflect, and heal. This centre is not just about counselling — it’s about empowering women with resilience and hope.”

The initiative ‘Edam’ will operate from the Ponnurunni Welfare Services (Sahrudaya) campus.

For free counselling services, you may contact 9847610707. Services are available Monday to Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

At the heart of Edam is its free, confidential one-on-one counselling service, designed especially for women in need. Highly trained counsellors will provide personalised mental health support in a private and empathetic environment.

Other planned activities during its first phase include:

• Awareness Sessions & Community Outreach: Regular workshops in schools, colleges, and community centres to improve mental health literacy and encourage open conversations around women’s mental well-being.
• Mental Health Screenings & Camps: Community-level assessments to identify early signs of distress and connect women with timely professional support.

By March 2026, Edam aims to directly reach 750+ women in Kochi through awareness and counselling services, with over 350 women expected to benefit from individual counselling sessions.

With this initiative, V-Guard Industries Ltd. reiterates its dedication to building mentally healthy communities and breaking barriers to care ensuring that every woman, regardless of background, has access to confidential, compassionate, and professional mental health support.

Sreekumar A., Vice President, V-Guard Industries Ltd; Saneesh K., Chief Officer – CSR, V-Guard Industries Ltd.; Fr. Joseph Koluthuvallil, Executive Director, Sahrudaya; Fr. Sibin Thomas, Assistant Executive Director; John Joshy K. J., District Social Justice Officer, Ernakulam and Drusya A., Assistant Professor, Bharata Mata College, Thrikkakkara were also present at the inaugural event.

ET Brand Equity Brings Marketing Summit to Chennai, Highlights Southern Ad Market Potential

ET Brand Equity Takes Its Flagship Marketing Summit to Chennai, Spotlights India’s INR 50,000 Crore Southern Ad Market

Hyderabad, 09 October 2025- The Economic Times Brand Equity will launch Brand World Summit – South on December 5, 2025, in Chennai, marking the first regional chapter of its marquee marketing conclave. The inaugural summit brings together India’s leading Chief Marketing Officers, media planners, and brand custodians to address a strategic gap: how to unlock South India’s Rs 50,000 crore advertising market, which operates on fundamentally different consumer behaviours and media consumption patterns than the rest of the country.

The expansion recognizes South India as a market contributing an estimated Rs 50,000 crore to India’s total advertising expenditure of Rs 1,64,137 crore. Despite representing nearly one-third of the national advertising market, the region’s unique consumption patterns have remained underserved by industry platforms.

“Over seven successful editions of Brand World Summit, we have witnessed marketing evolve by leaps and bounds. However, having a ringside view of the industry also revealed distinct differences in media planning and buying in South India,” said Amit Kumar Gupta, Business Head, Economic Times B2B Vertical. “The propensity to pay in the southern market is high and television and cinema consumption behaviours are different, making a dedicated focus crucial.”

Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam television channels command approximately 30% of India’s TV advertising spend, with Tamil and Telugu genres registering annual growth of 9 to 12% compared to slower national Hindi programming. South India also leads in Connected TV penetration, with over 50 million CTV households nationally and significant concentration in Southern cities, making it the fastest-growing market for CTV monetization.

The regional content boom reinforces this trend. Nearly 48% of all OTT content produced in 2024 was in regional languages, with Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam productions seeing viewership across India and globally. Films like RRR, Pushpa, and Baahubali have demonstrated South Indian content’s ability to dominate international streaming charts.

Cultural intelligence has become critical. South Indian festivals including Onam, Pongal, Ugadi, and Kannada Rajyotsava drive advertising spikes comparable to Diwali, yet many national brands lack frameworks to capitalize on these opportunities. FMCG, automotive, real estate, BFSI, and telecom brands are shifting budgets to regional media buys as one-size-fits-all campaigns underperform.

The economic profile adds depth. Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Telangana contribute disproportionately to India’s IT and startup ecosystem, creating affluent, digitally native audiences. Over 25% of India’s SME digital advertisers operate from South India. Surprisingly, while print struggles nationally, Tamil and Kannada dailies remain stable or growing, underscoring dual strength in traditional and digital media.

Lotus Electronics Unveils the Much-Awaited ‘Lotus Deal Festival’ Lotus Ki Diwali, 6 Faydo Wali!

Central India,09 October 2025: Lotus Electronics, Central India’s largest and most trusted electronics retail chain, announces the Lotus Deal Festival 2025, its biggest sales event of the year. Running until 2 November 2025, the festival coincides with festive occasions like Karwa Chauth and Diwali, offering customers unmatched savings, rewards, and conveniences across its product portfolio.

The festival features 120+ leading global and domestic brands in categories including home entertainment, kitchen appliances, personal computing, mobile technology, audio systems, and more. Celebrating 25 years of customer trust, the event also includes expert in-store guidance, express delivery, easy exchange and EMI options, extended warranties, and after-sales support.

Gaurav Pahwa, Lotus Electronics, said:
“Diwali is a time for lifestyle upgrades. The Lotus Deal Festival allows us to celebrate our customers’ trust by making technology accessible through deep discounts, attractive cashback schemes, and exciting rewards. Our offers, combined with recent GST rate cuts, ensure that festive shopping becomes truly joyful.”

Highlights of the festival include:

• Televisions, air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines with significant discounts, cashback, and exchange benefits.

• Laptops and smartphones at attractive savings with added cashback and exchange options.

• Audio systems, kitchen appliances, and smartwatches with special offers tailored for diverse customer needs.

• Financial offers through major banks, including instant discounts and cashback options, along with flexible EMI plans.

Every purchase is backed by Lotus Electronics’ Express Delivery and a nationwide service network, ensuring swift doorstep delivery and seamless post-sale service.