Category Archives: Business

Resilience Amid Market Swings: Powered by Strong, Diverse Revenue and Profit Gains

Chandigarh, April 30, 2025: KFin Technologies Limited announced its financial results for the quarter and year ended 31st March 2025 today.

Financial Highlights – Q4FY25
− Revenue from operations stood at ₹ 2,827.0 million, up 23.8% y-o-y

− International and other investor solutions revenue up by 16.3% y-o-y; VAS revenue up by 57.1% y-o-y

− EBITDA stood at ₹ 1,222.5 million, up 16.9% y-o-y, EBITDA margin at 43.2%

− PAT at ₹ 850.5 million, up 14.2% y-o-y, PAT margin at 30.1%

− Diluted EPS stood at ₹ 4.91, up 13.6% y-o-y

Financial Highlights – FY25
− Revenue from operations stood at ₹ 10,907.5 million, up 30.2% y-o-y

− International and other investor solutions revenue up 26.2% y-o-y; VAS revenue up by 53.2% y-o-y

− EBITDA stood at ₹ 4,790.0 million, up 30.7% y-o-y, EBITDA margin at 43.9%

− PAT at ₹ 3,326.3 million, up 35.2% y-o-y, PAT margin at 30.5%

− Diluted EPS stood at ₹ 19.27, up 34.3% y-o-y

− Cash and cash equivalents at ₹ 6,595.7 million as on March 31, 2025

− Dividend of ₹ 7.50 per share proposed and declared by the board, subject to shareholders’ approval

− Non-domestic mutual fund revenue share in overall revenue is at 29% in FY25

Business Highlights
− Entered into a definitive agreement5 to acquire controlling 51% stake in Ascent Fund Services (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. to expand global fund administration business with a defined path to 100% ownership over the next five years

− Overall AAUM1 growth at 25.9% y-o-y vs. 24.6% for the industry, market share1 at 32.4%

− Equity AAUM1 growth at 26.4% y-o-y vs. 27.6% for the industry, market share1 at 33.3%

− Won contracts from two AMCs for development of digital assets and development of interactive SOA respectively

− Added 9442 new corporate clients and 8 million2 investor folios under issuer solutions; Market share3 in NSE500 companies at 49.6%

− Number of international clients increased to 764; Overall AAUM4 grew 33.5% y-o-y to ₹0.8 trillion; Won a multi-year FA

platform deal from a large Trustee5, a fully managed FA service deal from an AMC and a full service DTA deal from a financial intermediary in Malaysia; Won a full-service TA deal from an AMC in Philippines

− No of alternate funds at 5694; Market share4 at 36.8%; AAUM grew 47.2% y-o-y to ₹ 1.5 trillion4; Won 34 new AIF funds;

Won two deals for the wealth platform

− NPS subscriber base4 grew to 1.62 million, up by 32.4% y-o-y vs. 12.2% y-o-y growth for the industry; Market share4 in overall subscribers’ base at 9.8% as on March 31, 2025, up from 8.3% as on March 31, 2024

Commenting on the company’s performance, Sreekanth Nadella, Managing Director and CEO, KFin Technologies Limited said, “It’s been an incredible year for KFintech. Our focus on strong execution continues to deliver all round performance in terms of strong growth in revenue, profitability, and cashflows across our diversified business model. Our businesses in India and Southeast Asia continues to demonstrate strong momentum with new client wins and market share gains. We are excited to have orchestrated our transformational and the largest acquisition of Ascent Fund Services having multi-jurisdiction presence, diversified set of clients, well-experienced team, and strong growth. By combining Ascent’s client acquisition capabilities with KFintech’s technological expertise and our strategic partnership with BlackRock’s Aladdin Provider Network, we are well-positioned to drive growth and market leadership and create long-term value for all stakeholders.”

Shoppers Stop Q4 Revenue at Rs 1022 Cr, FY24 Revenue Rises 5 Percent to Rs 4436 Cr

Mumbai, April 30, 2025: Shoppers Stop Ltd., a leading department store with premier fashion and beauty brands, has declared its results for the quarter ended 31st March 2025.

Key financial highlights for Q4 FY25:

(In Rs Cr)

*GAAP sales lower by Rs 41 Cr due to reclassification of few vendors from ROR to SOR, save this, growth +6%

Financial highlights for FY25:

(In Rs Cr)

*GAAP sales lower by Rs 41 Cr due to reclassification of few vendors from ROR to SOR, save this, growth +6%

Management Comments:

Commenting on the Q4 performance, Mr. Kavindra Mishra, MD and CEO of Shoppers Stop Ltd, he said, “Shoppers Stop delivered consistent performance despite continued softness in demand and a challenging macro environment. We achieved 4% revenue growth with 3% Like-for-Like growth (Non-GAAP), marking the second consecutive quarter of LFL growth. Our two campaigns “India Weds with Shoppers Stop” a comprehensive wedding shopping experience, offering a wide array of wedding-related products and services and “Gifts of Love” an initiative featuring a range of products designed to be given as gifts, celebrating love in various forms are successful.

Our strategy of premiumization continues to yield strong results, with premium brands contributing 65% of total sales, +7% YoY. This emphasizes our position as a destination of choice for modern Indian consumers seeking aspirational and world-class experiences. Our First Citizen loyalty program continues to be a cornerstone of our success, driving 82% of sales with growing repeat engagement.

Despite the gradual demand recovery, we are optimistic due to structural changes like premiumization, customer engagement campaigns, and India’s rising affluence and evolving consumer aspirations. We will continue to build strong momentum in premiumization, Beauty and value fashion INTUNE and focus on experiential retail, digital personalization, expansion to drive sustainable growth in FY26 and beyond.”

Performance of strategic pillars in Q4FY25:

• First Citizen –First Citizen Members contributed 82% to our sales, of which 69% were repeat and the balance 13% from new members. Our Premium Black Card members contributed 16% to our sales,

+38% YoY. Our customer engagement activities continued with round the clock programs and campaigns. The AI personalized video led to 2X increase in conversion.

• Beauty – Beauty delivered Sales of Rs 209 Cr, (6% YoY) excluding distribution business and Rs 264 Cr

+3% YoY including distribution. Our customer engagement continues with 60K+ makeovers, 115+ Master Classes and 10 beauty Soirée events. We opened First “PRADA” boutique during the quarter, further enhancing our luxury beauty portfolio.

• Beauty Distribution – Global SS Beauty Brands Limited, our 100% subsidiary continues to outperform with sales of Rs 67 Cr during the quarter +61% YoY growth and year to date Sales of Rs 236 Cr with profitable growth. We expanded our network to 25 Retailers/460+ POS and strengthened our distribution by partnering Zepto in Quick commerce and Wellness Forever in the Pharmacy segment.
• Private Brands –With a continued focus on profitability, Private Brands sales were at Rs 145 Cr, contributing 11% to overall sales and 16% in the Apparel segment, with improved productivity and higher intake margin. This was supported by the usage of digital prints, natural and sustainable fabrics.
• INTUNE –Added 15 new stores during the quarter and 52 during the year. As at Q4 end, we have 71 Intune stores across 30 cities. INTUNE generated sales of Rs 54 Cr in Q4 and year to date Rs 192 Cr. The focus remained on productivity improvement for the current portfolio.
• Store Expansion – We launched 21 stores in this quarter, including 5 Department, 15 INTUNE, 1 Beauty stores. The total capex investment was Rs 52 Cr in Q4 and Rs. 192 Cr in FY25.

Studio Monkey Shoulder Makes a Comeback in India for Year Two

Gurugram, India, 30th April 2025: Studio Monkey Shoulder is once again inviting grassroots music communities from India to apply for a £10,000 grant (₹ 11 Lakh approx.) which will go towards a music project that will spotlight their scene on a global scale.

Last year, Studio Monkey Shoulder supported DJ Delhi Sultanate to transport the BFR Sound System across the country and host Big Bang Festival – a 2 day boutique music & culture festival in the remote Indian jungles of Assam. This year, Studio Monkey Shoulder is back in India to discover empower the grassroots music communities who are innovating in their scenes – from independent record stores to DIY music venues, online radio stations, and beyond, the spaces where people connect, create and discover music are critical to a thriving music ecosystem.

Monkey Shoulder brand will once again join forces with globally acclaimed partners; online radio station, Worldwide FM, as well as its esteemed founder, DJ and broadcaster, Gilles Peterson, to award one India community the fund to bring an original project to life this summer. As well as funding, that community will get to tell their story through a series of films and radio broadcasts produced by Worldwide FM.

“The Studio Monkey Shoulder initiative with Worldwide FM and Monkey Shoulder allowed us to think audaciously and go all out on how we’d like a musical and cultural gathering to be. To be able to bring the sound system of a 5-day journey from Delhi to the tribal village of Nanadisa and hold a massive reggae dance in the jungle where in the end everyone let loose and joined in is stuff dreams are made of” says last year’s India fund recipients, Delhi Sultanate (BFR Soundsystem)

“I’m thrilled to see Studio Monkey Shoulder grow in its second year in partnership with Worldwide FM. It’s been a privilege to work with the communities we supported in 2024, seeing their projects thrive and come to life. I’m excited to uncover more amazing community-driven projects in India and witness the talent that comes with it as the project evolves in year two” says Gilles Peterson.

Choice Consultancy Services Pvt Ltd Secures New Projects Worth 66.83 Crores

Mumbai, April 30, 2025: Choice Consultancy Services Pvt Ltd, a leading consulting firm and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Choice International Ltd, has announced the award of prestigious new contracts totalling approximately ₹67 crores, further strengthening its leadership in driving rural and digital transformation initiatives across India.

The company has been awarded an additional work order worth ₹46.34 crores (Inclusive of GST) by the Office of the Registrar, Cooperative Societies, Bihar, for the computerization of 3576 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS). Building upon its strong performance during the first phase of the project, Choice Consultancy Services will continue to serve as the System Integrator, leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency, transparency, and service delivery within PACS across the state. Choice team is currently working to digitize more than 9000 PACS across India and more than 4000 PACS in Bihar.

In Karnataka, Choice Consultancy Services has been awarded a work order valued at ₹10.23 crores (Inclusive of GST) by the Office of the Registrar, Cooperative Societies, Karnataka, for the computerization of 878 PACS. As part of this engagement, the company will undertake data digitization, migration, handholding, and support services across grassroots institutions, ensuring seamless digital transformation across rural communities.

Additionally, Choice Consultancy Services has been appointed as the Project Monitoring Unit (PMU) by ITI Limited and Tera Software Limited for the implementation of the Amended BharatNet Program across West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh and the North Eastern region. Valued at ₹10.26 crores (Inclusive of GST), the three-year assignment encompasses project monitoring, evaluation, vendor coordination, progress reporting, and strategic support to strengthen broadband connectivity in some of the remotest regions of the country.

Commenting on these developments, Arun Poddar, CEO of Choice International Ltd, said, “We are proud to deepen our engagement with public sector partners through these important assignments. Our commitment to advancing rural infrastructure and digital connectivity is unwavering, and we remain focused on delivering impact-driven, technology-enabled solutions that empower communities and contribute to India’s long-term growth. These project wins further validate our strategic direction and reinforce our positioning as a trusted execution partner in high-value public sector initiatives.”

These initiatives align closely with the Government of India’s vision to modernize rural institutions, expand digital access, and foster inclusive economic growth. The company’s involvement in these projects reinforces its position as a trusted partner in executing high-impact programs across the nation.

The PACS computerization projects in Bihar and Karnataka are expected to be completed over the next 24 to 30 months, digitally empowering thousands of farmers and rural communities by enhancing access to financial services. The BharatNet PMU engagement will be executed over a period of 3 years, focusing on strengthening rural broadband infrastructure across critical geographies. With these significant assignments, Choice Consultancy Services continues to cement its position as a catalyst for India’s rural digital transformation and remains committed to delivering impact-driven solutions that enable inclusive growth and sustainable development.

Celebrate Akshaya Tritiya with a Click: Instamart to Deliver Precious Coins via Kalyan Jewellers

Chandigarh, April 30 2025: Instamart, India’s pioneering quick commerce platform, has partnered with Kalyan Jewellers, one of India’s most trusted and iconic jewellery brands, marking the jewellery brand’s debut in the quick commerce space. Just in time for Akshay Tritiya, customers can now order certified gold and silver coins directly on Instamart and have them delivered to their doorsteps in minutes. Instamart users can avail the service across all 100 cities including top metros.

Starting April 25, consumers across cities can shop a certified assortment of gold and silver coins on Instamart, making last-minute festive shopping more seamless and stress-free than ever before. The exclusive range includes:

● Gold Coins: 0.5g and 1g (24 Karat, BIS Hallmarked) featuring motifs like the Flower, Ayodhya, Lord Ganesh, Swastik and Goddess Lakshmi

● Silver Coins: 5g, 10g, and 20g (999 pure silver, certified) adorned with auspicious motifs such as Ganpati, Laxmi, Ganesh Laxmi and more.

Whether it’s for gifting, spiritual rituals, or personal investment, these coins are a symbol of prosperity and auspicious beginnings, perfectly aligned with the spirit of Akshaya Tritiya. But what makes this launch truly special is that it’s not just a festive addition. Post Akshaya Tritiya, Kalyan Jewellers’ gold and silver coins will continue to be available on Instamart as part of their regular assortment, giving consumers year-round access to trusted, quality-assured precious metals with just a few taps.

Amitesh Jha, CEO of Instamart said, “We’re excited to welcome Kalyan Jewellers to our platform ahead of Akshaya Tritiya. With more customers embracing the convenience of quick commerce for festive and traditional purchases, this partnership is both timely and relevant. Our goal is to ensure that customers can access trusted, certified products like gold and silver coins with the same ease as they would groceries or other household purchases.”

With this latest offering, Instamart is reaffirming its position as the go-to destination for not just groceries, but moments of joy, celebration, and tradition, delivered instantly.

Speaking about the partnership, Mr Ramesh Kalyanaraman, Executive Director, Kalyan Jewellers said, “Akshaya Tritiya is a time-honoured tradition, and purchasing gold or silver on this day is considered especially auspicious. Through our collaboration with Swiggy’s Quick Commerce platform, Instamart, we are making it easier than ever to buy Kalyan gold and silver coins. Our offering includes 0.5g and 1g gold coins, along with 5g, 10g, and 20g silver coins – delivered straight to your doorstep in minutes. This provides customers with the flexibility to choose according to their needs, budgets, and convenience. This partnership allows us to integrate the auspiciousness of tradition with the ease and speed of modern living, ensuring the spirit of the festival remains.”

To celebrate this golden partnership, Instamart launched a striking on-ground activation named InstaGold. In Hyderabad, a high-footfall location was transformed with an eye-catching installation, completely covered in chocolate coins wrapped in identical gold foil. But here’s the twist: hidden among them were 5 real gold coins, indistinguishable from the rest. Each participant had just one chance to pick a coin and try their luck. This exciting, interactive experience captured the spirit of Akshaya Tritiya, bringing together tradition, surprise, and a dash of golden fortune in the most delightful way.

IDEMITSU Honda Racing India Riders Begin 2025 FIM Asia Road Racing with Strong Round 1 Showing

Mumbai / Chang International Circuit, Buriram (Thailand), 29 April 2025: The riders of IDEMITSU Honda Racing India team took on the challenge of Round 1 of the 2025 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship, held at the legendary Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand. Today marked the conclusion of Round 1, bringing an intense and action-packed weekend to a close.

The Indian duo, Kavin Quintal and Johann Reeves, completed today’s race with determination and consistency in the fiercely competitive Asia Production 250cc (AP250) class.

Kavin Quintal, the 19-year-old rider started the 10-lap race from the 23^rd grid position for race 1. He finished at 19^th position with a total time of 19:06.659. In race 2, he fought back stronger and despite the tough competition, Kavin showed resilience and strategic race craft, managing to maintain his position. He finished at 13^th position after a hard-fought race today, crossing the chequered flag with a total time of 19:07.972 and his fastest lap was recorded at 1:53.676.

Meanwhile, Johann Reeves started from 29^th on the grid in his debut season at the ARRC. In race 1, he put an intense fight, maintaining consistent lap times and gaining valuable experience on the demanding circuit. Johann finished at 15^th position in the race 1 with a total time of 19:05.726. In race 2, Reeves held his ground and finished the race at 18^th place with a total time of 19:11.232 and his fastest lap was 1:53.861.

Kavin earned 3 points in race 2 while Johann bagged 1 point in race 1, bringing their cumulative team total to 4 points for this season in the Asia Production 250cc (AP250) class.

Sharing his thoughts, Kavin Quintal said “Today’s race at Chang Circuit was tough right from the start. The technical layout demanded full concentration. I knew it wouldn’t be easy. I managed to fight my way up to 13^th. While there’s still a lot to learn, I am proud of the progress. This wraps up Round 1, and I am more motivated than ever to come back stronger for the next one.

 Johann Reeves added, “Today’s race at Chang Circuit was a real test. Starting 29^th, I gave it everything and finished at 19^th. I am glad to garner some points for the team in the race 1. The competition is tough and the track unforgiving, but there’s a lot to take forward. Round 1 is done and I am feeling motivated and ready to push even harder in the next one”

Joykumari Nongthombam joins Ronil Goa – A JdV by Hyatt Hotel, as Front Office Manager

Ronil Goa – a JdV by Hyatt Hotel – announces the appointment of Joykumari Nongthombam as Front Office Manager. Located on the lively Calangute-Baga Road in North Goa, JdV by Hyatt, Goa is a boutique resort that celebrates the joy of life through laid-back stays stays, vibrant social spaces, and feel-good experiences. As the first five-star hotel on this buzzing stretch, the hotel brings together the best bits of Goa – sun-drenched days by the pool, flavour-packed comfort food, creative cocktails, and the warm, free-spirited energy of Goa.

 Joykumari brings with her eight years of rich and diverse hospitality experience, having worked across renowned global brands including Hyatt, Shangri-La, Accor, Hilton, and Marriott in India. Her journey with Hyatt began at Park Hyatt as Assistant Front Office Manager and most recently, she was with Hyatt Regency Ludhiana before taking on this new chapter in Goa.

 Known for her commitment, warmth, and people-first approach, Joy is a passionate leader who embodies the Hyatt purpose – “We care for people so they can be their best.” In her new role at Ronil Goa, she will lead the dynamic and free-spirited Front Office team, playing a pivotal role in curating joyful guest experiences and creating a welcoming environment that reflects the spirit of JdV by Hyatt.

 Joy lives by the mantra: “Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift – that’s why it’s called the present.”

Primebook Secures Two Million Dollars in Pre-Series A Funding to Boost Affordable Tech Access in India

New Delhi, India – April 29, 2025 – Primebook- a first-of-its-kind Android laptop brand, today announced a successful Pre-Series A fundraise of USD 2 million in a mix of equity and debt. The round saw participation from Inflection Point Ventures, Auxano Capital, and NexG Devices, along with high-net-worth individual investors such as Rikant Pittie,  CEO and Co-founder, EaseMyTrip and Bhavesh Gupta, Ex COO, Paytm.

Built in India, for Young India, Primebook is on a mission to democratize computing for students and digital-first learners. Founded by Chitranshu Mahant and Aman Verma, the brand combines hardware innovation with software intelligence to deliver smart, affordable, and student-centric laptops powered by its proprietary Android-based operating system, PrimeOS.

In just two years, Primebook has carved out a 5% market share in the under ₹20,000 laptop segment, showing a YoY growth of 2x. The capital raised in this funding round will be strategically deployed across multiple verticals:

R&D and Product innovation:

• Strengthening Primebook’s proprietary Android-based OS (PrimeOS) with enhanced multitasking capabilities, robust features like AI and Cloud PC, and cross-platform integrations.
• Improving device efficiency, speed, and battery performance while maintaining affordability.

Brand Development & Awareness:

• Revamping Primebook’s visual identity and messaging to align with Gen Z sensibilities — bold, minimal, and rooted in purpose.
• Launching a full-funnel digital campaign combining brand storytelling with performance marketing to drive both awareness and conversions.
• Platform-specific creative strategy across Instagram, YouTube, Google, Flipkart, and Amazon to cater to different audience mindsets and behaviours.
• Always-on performance marketing engine with data-backed experimentation on creatives, keywords, audiences, and formats to optimize CAC and ROAS.
• Build a creator-led content ecosystem by collaborating with tech influencers, student vloggers, and edu-creators to generate authentic product stories.
• PR & influencer strategy focused on showcasing the impact of Primebook in real student lives, blending credibility with relatability.
• Establishing Kiosks across various locations in PAN India and hosting various Tech events.

Business Growth:

• Expanding institutional sales channels and enhancing after-sales service infrastructure.
• New product launches.

Speaking about the investment, Mr. Chitranshu Mahant, CEO of Primebook, said, ”We’re excited about the new chapter in our journey, and we are extremely thankful to our investors for their faith and backing. Furthermore, this investment enables us to put more resources toward product development, scale our operations, and reach millions more households in India. Thanks to our proprietary blend of affordable innovation and advanced technology, Primebook is on its way to becoming the preferred brand for students, professionals, and families.’’

Being one of the investors, Ankur Mittal, Co-Founder, IPV, says, “As of 2025, India still faces challenges like limited access to affordable laptops, poor connectivity in remote areas, and the need for localised, student-friendly tech. Primebook addresses these issues with low-cost devices offering 4G connectivity, an Android-based user-friendly desktop interface, and features like parental controls. The devices are assembled in India by PLI-approved manufacturers. Primebook is focused on empowering the next generation of students, especially those from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, creating a huge market for itself.”

Harmeet Bindra, CEO & Founder, Leixer Resources, adds up, “To me, the success of the venture lies in the enormity of the problem we are trying to solve and the capability of the founders to address it. In Chitranshu & Aman, I found the clarity to make a true difference in the experience for the customers of Primebook and founders who knew that if they came up with a stumbling block that was hard to cross, they would find a way around it. I am confident that the Primebook team will be a winner.”

“Investing in a founder is all about what value adds & difference one is making in the ecosystem. The Primebook team has been at the forefront of making a difference over the past years. The resilience, never-say-die attitude, hustle, and more importantly, the ability & willingness to hear have been consistent. The business & team is poised to go to the next level of growth.” – Auxano Capital.

The presence of prominent investors such as Rikant Pittie and Bhavesh Gupta further supports the increasing faith in Primebook’s capacity to change the dynamic of affordable technology in the country. To this, Bhavesh Gupta,  Ex-COO, Paytm, states – “Investing in Primebook meant investing in the ever-expanding personal computing industry that’s certain to turn hybrid over the next ten years, where consumers would use advanced applications and software on cost-effective hardware via the cloud. Primebook’s continuous innovation in this regard and the founders’ resilience are what drove the funding decision. I am confident that the Primebook India team would reach its heights.”

Sheraton Grand Palace Indore Unveils “The Royal Indian Cuisine” Feast

Indore, April 29, 2025 – Sheraton Grand Palace Indore proudly announces The Royal Indian Cuisine, an exclusive food festival that revives the grandeur and sophistication of India’s royal dining heritage. Scheduled from 25th April to 4th May 2025, this regal celebration will be hosted every evening at Araana, the hotel’s signature dining restaurant, from 7:00 PM onwards.

The festival brings together an opulent selection of dishes inspired by royal courts across India—from the kitchens of the Nawabi to the palaces of Rajasthan, Awadh and beyond. Each dish is an ode to timeless traditions, reimagined with authenticity and artistry. Dishes like Mahekti Rajmahal Shami, Darbaar –e- Kathal Kebab, Paneer Kundan Kaliyan, Makhmali Dal Tadka will be served in the food festival.

The highlight of this year’s festival is the presence of Chef Pranav, who has travelled all the way from Rajasthan to curate this experience. Renowned for his mastery in Indian Royal Cuisine, Chef Pranav brings with him generations-old recipes and culinary techniques passed down through royal households. His dishes, crafted with handpicked spices and traditional slow-cooking methods, promise an unforgettable journey into the heart of India’s regal past.

Executive Chef Karam Dogra added, “Our culinary team has passionately recreated dishes using traditional methods like dum cooking, clay pot roasting, and hand-ground masalas. Each bite at Araana during this festival is crafted to take you back to the royal courts of India.”

Chef Pranav shared his thoughts: “It is an honour to bring the legacy of Rajasthani royal kitchens to Indore. The menu is a tribute to the slow, soulful cooking traditions I grew up learning from palace chefs in my region. This festival is my way of sharing their stories—through taste.”

“The Royal Indian Cuisine is more than just a festival—it is a sensory voyage into history, heritage and hospitality,” says Neil James, General Manager, Sheraton Grand Palace Indore. “We are delighted to announce that going forward, Araana will feature a dedicated Royal Indian Cuisine segment on its menu, making these timeless flavours a permanent part of our culinary identity.”

Gurpreet Singh Sodhi, Director of Food & Beverage, stated, “This festival is a proud showcase of our commitment to celebrating India’s diverse culinary roots. At Araana, we invite our guests to dine like royalty — where every detail, from plate to palate, echoes tradition, passion, and indulgence.”

Set against the majestic backdrop of Sheraton’s palace-inspired architecture, the festival offers:

• A specially curated royal buffet each evening
• Live cooking stations recreating palace-style preparations
• An immersive dining ambiance with regal décor and classical melodies

Open to hotel guests, corporate diners and the Indore community, the festival also welcomes group bookings and private celebrations.

Sheraton Grand Palace Indore invites patrons to indulge in this rare opportunity to taste dishes once served in royal banquets—where every flavour tells a story, and every detail reflects perfection.

Fashion Landmark: ICONIC Debuts Its Biggest Central India Store in Raipur

Raipur, it’s your time to shine—because Iconic has officially arrived! Iconic, one of India’s most loved lifestyle and fashion destinations, has just unveiled its grandest store yet in Central India. Nestled in the heart of the city at Zora The Mall, this sprawling 27,000 sq. ft. flagship is more than just a store—it’s a bold statement, a style revolution, and a celebration of global fashion, all rolled into one. The new store was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Vishnu Deo Sai and Deputy Minister Arun Sao, turning this launch into a landmark moment for Raipur! This prestigious event marks the arrival of Iconic as the city’s leading fashion destination, setting a new standard for style, luxury, and global fashion in Central India.

Designed as a complete fashion ecosystem, the new Iconic store offers dedicated sections for Men, Women, and Kids, bringing together an extraordinary selection that caters to every age, style, and mood. But what truly makes this destination a game-changer is its carefully curated portfolio of world-class brands that are loved across continents.

Step inside, and you’ll be instantly transported into the refined world of international fashion. From the polished elegance of GANT, the American brand known for its preppy classics, to the effortless edge of DKNY, born from the energy and spirit of New York City, every label tells a story. For the free spirited, denim lovers, True Religion offers new styles with its iconic styles & bold stitch detailing. Fashion-forward men will find their match in Antony Morato, the Italian powerhouse delivering contemporary silhouettes with a bold, confident flair, while Shantanu & Nikhil bring a touch of modern Indian couture that fuses tradition with high fashion.

For women, the collection is a dreamscape of global styles—Elle delivers Parisian poise with a modern edge, while DKNY channels the bold, urban spirit of New York. For those who appreciate timeless sophistication, GANT offers classic elegance with a contemporary twist. And of course, Iconic’s very own curated line stands out with trend-forward pieces designed to elevate every wardrobe. Whether it’s refined elegance or confident street style, there’s something here for every woman with an eye for international fashion.

According to Apoorv Sen, COO of Iconic, “Raipur represents more than just a new location; it symbolizes the next chapter in our expansion journey. As we grow across India, we are intentionally stepping into dynamic, fast-growing cities full of potential. Our entry into Chhattisgarh is a strategic move, and we’re confident this vibrant city will embrace the Iconic experience.”

More than just shopping, Iconic Raipur offers a fashion-forward experience that’s immersive, exciting, and elevated. With the largest lifestyle variety the city has ever seen—ranging from occasion wear and premium formals to trendy everyday essentials—this is where global style finally meets local vibes.

Vijay Jhanwar, owner of Zora The Mall stated, “The arrival of ‘Iconic’ at ZORA The Mall, Raipur, is a milestone for Chhattisgarh. With its standout brand mix and premium offerings, it’s set to raise the fashion bar in the region. Wishing the team great success on this exciting launch.”

Iconic Raipur is here to redefine the way the city shops. So come for the brands, stay for the experience, and leave with a wardrobe that turns heads.