Category Archives: Business

L&T Finance Ltd. unveils TV commercial ‘Just Zoom Two-wheeler Loans’ with Jasprit Bumrah

Mumbai, September 12, 2025: L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF), one of the leading retail financiers in the country, has introduced its latest TV commercial (TVC), ‘Just Zoom Two-wheeler Loans’, featuring its brand ambassador, Jasprit Bumrah. The campaign tagline ‘Bumrah Ki Speed Par’, cleverly draws parallels between Bumrah’s speed and precision with LTF’s swift and seamless Two-wheeler financing. 

The TVC was strategically launched during the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 for maximum impact and reach. L&T Finance is the Associate Sponsor for the Asia Cup 2025 on Sony TV Broadcast Network across 13 channels. The TVC highlights the key features of LTF’s Two-wheeler Loans – instant approval, maximum loan eligibility, and a competitive EMI starting at Rs. 2,199 per lakh. This speed of underwriting is driven by LTF’s proprietary Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning three-dimensional credit risk assessment engine, ‘Project Cyclops’, which assesses creditworthiness in real-time to deliver on the promise of instant approvals and a seamless customer experience.

The TVC is set in a two-wheeler showroom where customer expresses doubt about the speed of the loan process. The narrative cleverly contrasts the customer’s loan journey with a live cricket match featuring Jasprit Bumrah on a screen. As Bumrah begins his powerful run-up and delivers the ball, the LTF representative completes the entire digital loan application in parallel – from document upload to final approval. The loan approval matches with the climactic moment Bumrah dismisses the batsman, visually reinforcing the campaign’s promise of speed and efficiency to life. 

Ms. Kavita Jagtiani, Chief Marketing Officer at LTF, said, “Our vision for this film was clear: sharp, direct, and maximum impact. It is a reflection of our Two-wheeler loan proposition itself. We strategically leveraged Bumrah’s image to showcase our commitment to delivering a swift loan process, ensuring our customers that their wait time will be as short and decisive as his run-up to the crease. Over and above this, we are also using artificial intelligence to create exciting and highly personalized customer experiences at every touchpoint with Bumrah.” 

An Integrated Marketing Campaign (IMC) leveraging a mix of media buyouts for increased exposure and resonance will be launched across 13 cities – Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Bhubaneshwar, Chennai, Coimbatore, Cuttack, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Patna, Pune, Varanasi, and Guwahati. This includes outdoors with hoardings, airport branding in Mumbai, ads in inflight magazines, metro branding, WhatsApp Bot for Two-wheeler, and ads for user engagement on social media. The Company will also launch an AI-powered ‘Bowl like Bumrah’ contest. Users can match Bumrah’s bowling style and speed for a chance to win exciting prizes. In addition, the Company is conducting several initiatives like Bumrah signed gloves for consumer promotion and influencer campaign. The TV commercial will be aired on Sony Sports (English, Hindi, Tamil, and Malayalam), Sony PIX, Sony Max, and Sony Wah TV. This includes their respective HD channels.

EdCIL and British Council Launch Programme to Boost Internationalisation in North Indian Universities

EdCIL and British Council Unveils Capacity Building Programme to Strengthen Internationalisation in Universities in North India

12 September 2025, New Delhi: Educational Consultants India Limited (EdCIL), the only Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the British Council, the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities, launched the Capacity Building for International Officers programme in North India. With this support, 32 participants from 21 public and private universities across North India have participated in the workshop, which is designed to strengthen internationalisation initiatives within Indian higher education institutions.

This initiative aims to enhance the capacity of Indian universities to engage in internationalisation efforts while leveraging UK’s expertise in this area. Aligned with the goals of India’s (NEP) 2020, the programme aspires to position India as a global hub of education by fostering cross-border collaborations and promoting excellence in higher education. 

The programme will also offer modules to develop the skills and effectiveness of international officers, promoting knowledge sharing and practical outcomes to support the overall internationalisation agenda of participating institutions. 

Dr B Chandrasekar, Executive Director, EdCIL (India) Limited talks about the “Study In India Programme which is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Education, aimed at enhancing student mobility and attracting talented international learners, in line with the vision of NEP 2020. International collaboration efforts provide an opportunity to understand diverse learner perspectives at a global level. This capacity-building programme with the British Council is designed to provide valuable insights to international officers of HEIs, including professional services staff and faculty. It will strengthen their ability to identify and disseminate best practices in teaching and learning, thereby enhancing the global profile of Indian institutions. The diversity brought into the classroom by the international students enriches the learning ecosystem with inclusivity and global appeal. Aligned with NEP 2020, the SII programme will foster trust, credibility, and stronger global partnerships for Indian Higher Education Institutions.

Rittika Chanda Parruck, Director Education India, British Council says, “This programme reflects our long-term commitment to building sustainable collaborations between the UK and India in higher education. By sharing global best practices on internationalisation, we aim to enable Indian higher education institutions to strengthen their s expertise in internationalisation in line with the vision of NEP 2020. Together with EdCIL, we are working to seed the skills, knowledge, and partnerships that will help position India as a leading global hub of education.”

In the past, the Capacity Building for International Officers programme was successfully implemented with the Governments of Karnataka and Maharashtra. In Karnataka, supported by the State Higher Education Council, 58 participants from 28 universities went through the capacity building programme and were certified through a dedicated workshop, strengthening the role of international offices in fostering research collaborations and enriching student experiences. Similarly, in Maharashtra, with support from the Department of Higher and Technical Education, 34 participants from 19 universities took part in the initiative, aimed at building institutional capacity for internationalisation and advancing India–UK partnerships in higher education.

A Sneaker, Dressed Up: Metro Shoes Upgrades Men’s Footwear

Mumbai, 12TH September 2025- Metro Shoes, India’s leading footwear destination, announces the launch of METRO CROSSOVER, a first-of-its-kind menswear collection that creates a new space between sneakers and formals. Designed for the modern Indian man who is always on the move, METRO CROSSOVER becomes a symbol of self-assurance and confidence, standing tall in spaces traditionally reserved for formal attire.

With “A Sneaker. Dressed Up.” as its statement, the collection makes one clear promise: men no longer must compromise. CROSSOVER blends ease with polish, giving every step the comfort of a sneaker and the confidence of a dressed-up shoe.

This is footwear engineered for modern life. Each style fuses premium materials with sneaker-inspired innovation to deliver what today’s man values most:

• All-Day Comfort: Strobel construction and ultra-cushioning that adapts to your foot.
• Lightweight Ease: EVA soles that keep every step effortless.
• Performance Durability: High-traction TPR outsoles for grip and movement.
• Climate Control: Breathable knits and moisture management for India’s conditions.
• Refined Craft: Premium leather and trims, balancing polish with ease.

The collection spans loafer-sneaker hybrids, knit slip-ons, knit lace-ups, and elevated sneakers- a shoe for every occasion, without compromise.

And without compromise clarity of vision comes. Speaking on the launch, Alisha Malik, President, Metro Brands, said:

“At Metro, we’ve always believed that footwear should evolve with the way people live. With CROSSOVER, we are not just launching a new line, we are redefining an entire category. The modern Indian man no longer separates boardroom from after-hours and CROSSOVER is built exactly for that fluid lifestyle. By combining sneaker-level comfort with the refinement of formal design, we’ve created a shoe that adapts as seamlessly as our customers do. For over seven decades, Metro has been synonymous with quality and innovation, and CROSSOVER is the next step in that journey- setting new benchmarks in how India walks with style and confidence.”

The METRO CROSSOVER collection is now available across Metro Shoes stores nationwide, and online https://www.metroshoes.com/crossover

Step into CROSSOVER and experience the future of men’s footwear.

Ganga Fashions Opens Its First Concept Store in Surat

September 12, 2025, Surat – Ganga Fashions, a textile brand with over two decades of legacy, has launched its first-ever concept store, at Nomads, on Dumas Road, Surat. Established in 1990 as an export house with a presence across London, Indonesia, and Dubai, the brand entered the Indian market in 2007. Known for seamlessly blending India’s cultural richness with contemporary design, Ganga has consistently championed innovation, craftsmanship, and comfort.

Spread across 2,000 sq. ft., the store captures the essence of Ganga, anchored in tradition yet contemporary in its expression. Conceived as more than just a retail destination, it offers an immersive space of discovery where design, culture, and nature come together in harmony. Surrounded by tranquil greenery and serene ponds, the layout unfolds like a narrative, inviting visitors to journey through moods and stories rather than simply browsing racks and aisles. Every detail, from lighting to material finishes, has been thoughtfully curated to embody Ganga’s philosophy of balance, refinement, and craftsmanship.

Beyond its signature womenswear, the store also introduces menswear, home linens, accessories, and skincare essentials, with kidswear soon to follow. This carefully curated mix positions the store as a true lifestyle destination, offering something meaningful for every member of the family.  

“The launch of our first concept store marks an important milestone in Ganga’s journey,” said Sanjay Gangwani, Owner of Ganga Fashions. “For over two decades, our endeavor has been to bring together culture, comfort, and contemporary style in every creation. This new space is more than just a store, it is an immersive experience that embodies the essence of Ganga, where each detail has been thoughtfully designed to celebrate our craft, connect with our community, and carry forward our culture.”

With this launch, Ganga Fashions strengthens its commitment to reimagining Indian textiles for today’s world, creating experiences that are as enduring as they are contemporary.

GD Goenka University launches a new course in Aerospace in collaboration with Redbird Flight Training

Gurugram, September 12th, 2025: GD Goenka University, one of India’s leading institutions for higher education, announced the launch of a unique, first-of-its-kind aviation program under its Center for Aerospace and Energy Studies, in collaboration with Redbird Flight Training, India’s largest and most advanced Flight Training Organization (FTO).

This groundbreaking initiative combines academic degree studies with professional pilot training creating a new pathway for India’s aviation professionals. Unlike conventional programs, students will graduate with both a university degree and a pilot’s license, empowering them to pursue careers not only in India but also across global aviation markets, where upcoming regulations increasingly mandate academic qualifications alongside flight certifications.

The partnership brings together the academic excellence of GD Goenka University, a trusted name in higher education, with the unparalleled infrastructure of Redbird Flight Training, which operates multiple airfields and training facilities across the nation. It is also significant that the program is coordinated by the Center for Aerospace and Energy Studies, the same department that pioneered India’s first Pathway to Pilot Program for Aerospace Engineers in 2023.

Dr. Ugur Guven, Director- Center of Aerospace & Energy Studies, GD Goenka University, said, “This initiative marks a milestone in our vision to build a strong aerospace ecosystem at GD Goenka University. By combining our academic expertise with Redbird’s industry-leading flight training, we are ensuring that our students graduate with both theoretical depth and hands-on skills essential for today’s aerospace industry.”

Mr. Nipun Goenka, Managing Director, GD Goenka Group, added, “The collaboration with Redbird Flight Training is another step towards our commitment to offering world-class, industry-integrated education. The aerospace sector is poised for tremendous growth, and this course will provide our students with a clear edge in pursuing high-value careers in aviation and beyond.“

Capt. Karan Mann, President of Redbird Flight Training, said, “At Redbird, we believe in shaping aviation education that is future-ready and globally competitive. This partnership with GD Goenka University is a step towards nurturing a generation of professionals who will lead India’s aerospace growth story with competence and confidence.”

With this strategic partnership, GD Goenka University and Redbird Flight Training are set to redefine aerospace education in India, shaping the next generation of skilled aviation professionals.

Force Motors Announces Revised Prices Reflecting Full GST Reduction Benefits

Pune, September 12, 2025: Force Motors Limited, a key automotive player and India’s largest van manufacturer, today announced revised prices across its entire range of vehicles including Traveller, Trax, Urbania, Monobus, and Gurkha, effective 22nd September 2025. Coinciding with the onset of the festive season, the company will be passing on the full benefit of the revised 18% GST to its customers.

Making this announcement, Mr. Prasan Firodia, Managing Director of Force Motors Limited said, “The proposed GST rate rationalization is a landmark reform for the automotive industry and we at Force Motors welcome the reduction of GST rates from 28% to 18%, a move that will make a meaningful difference across critical mobility segments. Mass mobility solutions such as the Traveller, Urbania, and Trax will become more accessible, enabling safer and more reliable public transport, while ambulances too will benefit from the relaxation, easing the financial burden on healthcare providers and strengthening critical care infrastructure.

Moreover, the removal of Compensation Cess is a step in the right direction as it would help in bringing down the total incidence of GST taxation. This structural change is expected to further stimulate demand across the sector and provide a timely boost to festive season buying sentiment. The iconic Force Gurkha too stands to gain from the rate rationalization, making purpose-built, rugged mobility more attainable. Additionally, lower rates on engines, parts, and components will strengthen the supply chain and provide a strong impetus to the Government’s ‘Make-in-India’ vision”, he concluded. 

With demand rising in the festive period, customers are encouraged to confirm their bookings early to ensure on-time delivery of their vehicle.

K Formula Launches India’s First Molecular Haircare Brand with Peptide Technology

India, 2025: India’s beauty industry is about to experience a seismic shift with the launch of K Formula, the country’s first peptide-powered molecular haircare brand. Founded by entrepreneur Anoushka Adya, the brand introduces a science-driven, six-step repair ritual that promises visible transformation in as little as five minutes.

K Formula introduces a science-first, six-step ritual that doesn’t just coat hair but rebuilds it from within, at the molecular level. Powered by cutting-edge peptide technology, the range promises visible transformation in as little as five minutes. The brand’s bold claim? “New Hair in 5 Minutes.” For years, Indian haircare has been defined by oils, masks, and cosmetic quick-fixes. K Formula disrupts this narrative with what it calls the “Peptide Revolution”, reconnecting broken keratin chains to deliver lasting repair, resilience, and shine.

Anoushka Adya is an accomplished entrepreneur, the Founder of Relier Media Group. With a graduate degree in Marketing & Strategy from Warwick Business School, UK, Anoushka brings both academic rigor and creative flair to her ventures. She has built highly effective teams, driven innovation in content and design, and launched initiatives that merge purpose with impact. At the core of her mission is a desire to elevate Indian narratives while incorporating global standards.

“K Formula is deeply personal to me. For years, I searched for solutions that went beyond cosmetic quick fixes, and I knew Indian consumers deserved better. With peptides, we finally have the science to deliver true repair transformation you can see and feel in minutes. For me, this isn’t just about products; it’s about shifting the way we think about hair health in India,” says Anoushka Adya, Founder and CEO of K Formula.

Adding to its credibility, Delhi’s top celebrity hairstylist, Sahib Mongia, who has joined K Formula as the brand’s first official ambassador, calls it a game-changer: “As a stylist, I’ve tested every major global product on my clients over the years, but nothing has excited me like K Formula,” says Sahib Mongia, Hair Stylist, Ranked in Top 5 Best Hair Stylists and Founder of NOIR SALON. “The results are instant, visible, and lasting. This is the first Indian brand that genuinely competes with global science-backed products, and I believe it’s going to transform how Indians approach haircare.”

The brand makes its debut with a curated six-product collection, including a Peptide Hair Corrector (pre-shampoo), Peptide Shampoo, Peptide Conditioner, Molecular Leave-In Magic Mask, Molecular Repair Hair Oil, and a Peptide Dry Shampoo. Designed as a complete molecular repair system, each formula is vegan, sulphate-free, cruelty-free, and color-safe, priced between ₹700 and ₹1,500, making advanced peptide-powered haircare both premium and accessible.

In consumer trials, over 90% of participants reported that their hair felt softer, smoother, and healthier-looking after just one wash. The brand’s claim of “New Hair in 5 Minutes” is rooted in this data, reflecting its unique approach of molecular repair rather than cosmetic masking. Consumers today demand transparency, efficacy, and performance. With its science-first ethos and strong focus on education, K Formula is poised to lead this change. With a promise that’s both aspirational and accessible, K Formula positions itself as the brand India didn’t know it was waiting for. The first of its kind, it’s set to ignite conversations, spark a new wave in haircare, and put India at the forefront of the global peptide revolution.

This is the first Indian brand that genuinely competes with global science-backed products, and I believe it’s going to transform how Indians approach haircare.” Anoushka’s vision extends beyond bottles and boxes. “We’re not just selling formulas; we’re reimagining haircare for a new generation. It’s about creating a culture of hair health in India, where repair, strength, and longevity matter as much as beauty,” says Adya.

With a promise that’s both aspirational and accessible, K Formula positions itself as the brand India didn’t know it was waiting for. The first of its kind, it’s set to ignite conversations, spark a new wave in haircare, and put India at the forefront of the global peptide revolution. K Formula isn’t just another brand. It’s science. It’s culture. And it’s haircare, redefined.

K Formula Launches India’s First Molecular Haircare Brand with Peptide Technology

September 12, 2025: India’s beauty industry is about to experience a seismic shift with the launch of K Formula, the country’s first peptide-powered molecular haircare brand. Founded by entrepreneur Anoushka Adya, the brand introduces a science-driven, six-step repair ritual that promises visible transformation in as little as five minutes.

K Formula introduces a science-first, six-step ritual that doesn’t just coat hair but rebuilds it from within, at the molecular level. Powered by cutting-edge peptide technology, the range promises visible transformation in as little as five minutes. The brand’s bold claim? “New Hair in 5 Minutes.” For years, Indian haircare has been defined by oils, masks, and cosmetic quick-fixes. K Formula disrupts this narrative with what it calls the “Peptide Revolution”, reconnecting broken keratin chains to deliver lasting repair, resilience, and shine.

Anoushka Adya is an accomplished entrepreneur, the Founder of Relier Media Group. With a graduate degree in Marketing & Strategy from Warwick Business School, UK, Anoushka brings both academic rigor and creative flair to her ventures. She has built highly effective teams, driven innovation in content and design, and launched initiatives that merge purpose with impact. At the core of her mission is a desire to elevate Indian narratives while incorporating global standards.

“K Formula is deeply personal to me. For years, I searched for solutions that went beyond cosmetic quick fixes, and I knew Indian consumers deserved better. With peptides, we finally have the science to deliver true repair transformation you can see and feel in minutes. For me, this isn’t just about products; it’s about shifting the way we think about hair health in India,” says Anoushka Adya, Founder and CEO of K Formula.

Adding to its credibility, Delhi’s top celebrity hairstylist, Sahib Mongia, who has joined K Formula as the brand’s first official ambassador, calls it a game-changer: “As a stylist, I’ve tested every major global product on my clients over the years, but nothing has excited me like K Formula,” says Sahib Mongia, Hair Stylist, Ranked in Top 5 Best Hair Stylists and Founder of NOIR SALON. “The results are instant, visible, and lasting. This is the first Indian brand that genuinely competes with global science-backed products, and I believe it’s going to transform how Indians approach haircare.”

The brand makes its debut with a curated six-product collection, including a Peptide Hair Corrector (pre-shampoo), Peptide Shampoo, Peptide Conditioner, Molecular Leave-In Magic Mask, Molecular Repair Hair Oil, and a Peptide Dry Shampoo. Designed as a complete molecular repair system, each formula is vegan, sulphate-free, cruelty-free, and color-safe, priced between ₹700 and ₹1,500, making advanced peptide-powered haircare both premium and accessible.

In consumer trials, over 90% of participants reported that their hair felt softer, smoother, and healthier-looking after just one wash. The brand’s claim of “New Hair in 5 Minutes” is rooted in this data, reflecting its unique approach of molecular repair rather than cosmetic masking. Consumers today demand transparency, efficacy, and performance. With its science-first ethos and strong focus on education, K Formula is poised to lead this change. With a promise that’s both aspirational and accessible, K Formula positions itself as the brand India didn’t know it was waiting for. The first of its kind, it’s set to ignite conversations, spark a new wave in haircare, and put India at the forefront of the global peptide revolution.

This is the first Indian brand that genuinely competes with global science-backed products, and I believe it’s going to transform how Indians approach haircare.” Anoushka’s vision extends beyond bottles and boxes. “We’re not just selling formulas; we’re reimagining haircare for a new generation. It’s about creating a culture of hair health in India, where repair, strength, and longevity matter as much as beauty,” says Adya.

With a promise that’s both aspirational and accessible, K Formula positions itself as the brand India didn’t know it was waiting for. The first of its kind, it’s set to ignite conversations, spark a new wave in haircare, and put India at the forefront of the global peptide revolution. K Formula isn’t just another brand. It’s science. It’s culture. And it’s haircare, redefined.

St. Louis Men’s Group Against Cancer Hosts 54th Annual Fundraiser

Men’s Dinner event to feature keynote speaker Pro Football Hall of Famer Terry Bradshaw. 

(St. Louis, Mo., September 12, 2025) St. Louis Men’s Group Against Cancer (STLMGAC) – a leading nonprofit dedicated to funding cancer research, prevention, and care activities in the St. Louis region – will hold its 54^th annual Men’s Dinner on Thursday, November 20, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Ritz-Carlton located at 100 Carondelet Plaza in Clayton, Mo.

Tickets are $425 per person with proceeds directly benefiting local cancer-related organizations. The evening will feature an open cocktail bar, hors d’oeuvres, a gourmet dinner, and both live and silent auctions. This year’s keynote speaker will be Pro Football Hall of Famer and Emmy Award-winning broadcaster Terry Bradshaw.

Bradshaw is a four-time Super Bowl champion quarterback with the Pittsburgh Steelers, a two-time Super Bowl MVP, and a multi-Emmy and award-winning broadcaster for FOX NFL Sunday. An accomplished motivational speaker and New York Times bestselling author of five books, Bradshaw brings inspiration and recognition to the Men’s Dinner event.

St. Louis beneficiaries of this year’s STLMGAC fundraiser include the American Cancer Society-Hope Lodge, The Bennet Project, BJC Healthcare, The Breakfast Club, Camp Rainbow, The Cancer Support Community, The December 5^th Fund Friends of Kids with Cancer, Gateway to Hope, HavenHouse St. Louis, Make A Wish Foundation – Missouri, Mercy Cancer Center, Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis, SSM Health Foundation St. Louis, Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis Children’s Hospital Foundation, Valeda’s Hope, and Washington University School of Medicine.

Since its inception in 1969, STLMGAC has raised more than $6 million for over 40 charities serving the St. Louis cancer community. The independent nonprofit provides vital support to individuals facing a cancer diagnosis and is committed to advancing scientific research in the search for a cure.

For information about the Men’s Dinner sponsorship opportunities and purchasing tickets, call (314) 786-5950 or visit their website.

HCBS Developments Appoints KBE as Construction Partner for Twin Horizon in Gurugram

Gurugram, 11th September 2025: Gurugram’s leading realty player, HCBS Developments, announces its strategic partnership with Krishna Buildestates Private Limited (KBE) for the construction of its ultra-luxury residential project, Twin Horizon in Sector 102, Gurugram. This strategic alliance leverages HCBS’s commitment to timely delivering the project with the highest standards of quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability.

Spanning 5.2902 acres, Twin Horizon will feature two high-rise towers comprising 268 premium residences, alongside seven boutique commercial spaces. Designed by Architect Morphogenesis, the project embodies a blend of contemporary architecture, world-class amenities, and sustainable features, with construction planned for completion in four years.

With over 30 years of expertise, HCBS Developments is a leading name in real estate, delivering premium residential, commercial, and group housing projects across Gurugram. Known for timely delivery and quality construction, they create thoughtfully designed spaces that blend comfort, convenience, and innovation.

Saurab Saharan, Group Managing Director, HCBS Developments, said, “Our vision for Twin Horizon is about crafting a signature urban landmark that redefines luxury, design, and sustainability in Gurugram. By partnering with KBE, a construction firm with deep roots, technological prowess, and a reputation for precision, we are confident that Twin Horizon will set new industry benchmarks.”

Bharat Bahl, Director, Krishna Buildestates Private Limited (KBE), said, “KBE is truly honored to be entrusted with bringing Twin Horizon’s visionary concept to life. For decades, our unwavering commitment to quality, sustainable practices, and client-centric execution has defined who we are, and this project perfectly aligns with those values. By leveraging cutting-edge construction technologies, multi-disciplinary engineering expertise, and a relentless focus on building trust at every stage, we aim to craft Twin Horizon not just as a structural marvel, but as an elevated living experience. Each tower will embody our ethos of innovation, precision, and resident well-being, standing as a lasting testament to superior craftsmanship and forward-thinking design. Over the years, KBE has evolved into a trusted name in the industry, consistently delivering exemplary residential, commercial, and institutional landmarks that redefine modern living.”