Category Archives: Business

K Raheja Corp Launches ‘I-Lead’ to Develop Early Managers into Effective People Leaders Across its Group Companies

Mumbai, July 23, 2025: K Raheja Corp, one of India’s leading real estate conglomerates, has launched ‘I-Lead’, a focused managerial development initiative aimed at enhancing people management capabilities of early-career managers across its businesses of Mindspace Business Parks REIT, Chalet Hotels, Inorbit Mall, and K Raheja Corp Homes. With over 100 managers participating in the first cohort, the programme is part of a broader effort to build stronger managerial foundations across the organisation.

‘I-Lead’ is designed for professionals in the Manager to Assistant General Manager grades, a talent segment that plays a pivotal role in team performance, daily execution, and cross-functional collaboration. The programme focuses on strengthening core managerial competencies such as driving team accountability, fostering trust, setting goals, delegating effectively, and navigating feedback conversations – skills that are central to creating high-performing, people-centric teams.

With the first batch successfully hosted, the initiative blends structured learning with practical application, ensuring that managers are not only exposed to management frameworks, but are also equipped to apply them meaningfully in real-world situations. The experience is designed to create tangible behavioural shifts rather than just theoretical understanding.

A program co-created between K Raheja Corp’s in-house L&D team and Basil Tree Consulting, it is delivered by experienced facilitators offering participants expert-led insights. It includes classroom sessions, reflection-led discussions, workplace application, and follow-up interventions such as assessments and feedback mechanisms to support continued learning and growth.

Speaking on the initiative, Urvi Aradhya, CHRO, K Raheja Corp, said, “Managers form the operational backbone of our businesses. They directly influence how teams align, collaborate, and deliver. With ‘I-Lead’, we are investing in helping our managers build the right mindset and skills to lead teams with greater clarity, empathy and executional strength. This program is designed to support their transition into confident, capable people managers.”

All eligible managers across Group companies will undergo the ‘I-Lead’ journey over the coming months. By focusing on practical capability-building at the managerial level, K Raheja Corp is reinforcing its commitment to developing a strong internal talent pool that can support the organisation’s growth and operational excellence.

K Raheja Corp’s people-first culture is reflected in a suite of progressive programmes, from Anchal for expectant mothers and Pride Side for LGBTQ+ inclusion, to Reach Out for mental well-being, Relaunch for career re-entry, Future-Forward Leadership program for CXO’s, Shikhar for managerial growth, and Sheroes for advancing women leaders and many more. Together, these initiatives nurture talent at every stage and prepare employees to excel.

Venture Capital firm Auxano Capital Scores Nearly 7x Return From WIOM Exit

National, July 23rd, 2025: Auxano, a leading early-stage investment firm, today announced a successful secondary exit from its portfolio company Wiom, a fast-growing internet infrastructure platform focused on affordable broadband access for India’s underserved population. The exit delivered an impressive 7x return, underscoring Auxano’s strategic acumen in backing category-creating businesses.

The exit, executed via a secondary sale, marks Auxano’s second full exit among a total of four to date (two full and two partial) across its various investment vehicles.

Notably, this exit was made through Auxano’s pre-fund Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), which was established prior to the launch of its first official fund in 2019.

Wiom operates an asset-light, technology-led platform that integrates with India’s existing internet infrastructure ecosystem. Leveraging the Government of India’s PM-WANI (Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) framework, Wiom functions as the country’s largest licensed Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA). The company partners with local internet operators to extend broadband access to communities where traditional connectivity models are often economically unviable. Auxano had initially invested in Wiom through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) in 2017, followed by a subsequent round in 2021.

“Touching the lives of 500 million people & being committed to the vision & mission is important. Being one of our earliest investments, we are grateful to our LP’s, who had patience in this journey & the resilience & adaptability powers of the founding team. Phoenix- it is. Identifying emerging megatrends/disruption & investing in category creators transforming to market leaders – Wiom it is,” said Brijesh Damodaran, Co-founder and Partner, Auxano.

During the investment period, Auxano played an active role in supporting Wiom, both operationally and strategically, acting as a trusted sounding board for the founding team and aligning closely with the company through multiple pivots.

“Working with Auxano has been one of the best decisions for Wiom. They truly embody a ‘Founder First’ philosophy, standing steadfast through highs and lows without a hint of doubt. In tricky moments, they never imposed but always asked, ‘What would you like to do? ‘- and then backed me without hesitation. Their unwavering conviction and genuinely good nature make them more than just investors – they’re true partners. If you’re an early-stage founder, trust me: take their money blindly. You won’t regret it,” said Satyam Darmora, Co-founder of Wiom.

Auxano’s investment strategy focuses on identifying disruptive startups across core sectors such as fintech, healthtech, sustainability, Industry 4.0, and consumer internet. The firm remains committed to supporting visionary founders and transformative business models that can unlock the next wave of innovation from India to the world.

Toscano Celebrates World Lasagna Day with Two Timeless Italian Classics

India, 23 July 2025: On this World Lasagna Day, Toscano raises a toast to one of Italy’s most beloved culinary icons: Lasagna. Rich, layered, and baked to perfection, lasagna at Toscano isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration of heritage, flavor, and comfort.

With a nod to tradition and a flair for fine ingredients, Toscano highlights two signature lasagna creations that bring the spirit of Italian home cooking to every table.

Lasagna Vegetariana

A vegetarian masterpiece, this lasagna brings together roasted vegetables, creamy béchamel, and zesty tomato-basil sauce, layered between delicate pasta sheets and crowned with bubbling mozzarella and parmesan. It’s hearty, wholesome, and bursting with garden-fresh flavor, proof that comfort food doesn’t need meat to be indulgent.

Lasagna di Pollo (Chicken Lasagna)

Crafted for those who crave rich, savory depth, Toscano’s chicken lasagna features tender chicken cooked with vegetables and layered in béchamel and tomato sauce. Melted cheese tops it off for a golden finish that’s both familiar and unforgettable.

Each dish is served with Toscano’s signature garlic bread and crisp salad—turning every lasagna into a complete and comforting Italian meal.

“Lasagna holds a special place in Italian culture; it’s a dish that brings people together,” says Toscano’s Head Chef.

Whether you’re a loyal Toscano diner or a first-time guest, World Lasagna Day is the perfect reason to revisit the classics and celebrate the timeless joy of Italian cooking.

From Comfort to Care: Himalaya BabyCare’s Journey to 500 Breastfeeding Facilities Across India

Hyderabad, July 23, 2025: As part of its ongoing commitment to nurturing healthy beginnings for mothers and children, Himalaya BabyCare proudly announces the successful installation of over 500 breastfeeding rooms across India, offering clean and private spaces for mothers to feed their babies with dignity and comfort. This milestone reflects the brand’s continued efforts to support mothers with clean and thoughtful infrastructure at a time when public awareness around maternal well-being is increasingly vital.

The breastfeeding rooms are located in 27 airports, including major transit hubs like Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Goa. At 33 railway stations, including key locations across Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh. In addition, 268 rooms in 141 hospitals and other high-footfall areas across metro cities and regional centres in India.

The total number of operational feeding rooms stands at 502 as of June 2025. Based on the survey conducted by the brand, on an average, each feeding room is used by approximately 30 mothers every day, highlighting the consistent need for such facilities. This translates to more than 5.5 million mothers annually who benefit from Himalaya BabyCare’s thoughtfully designed, mother-friendly spaces, ensuring they have access to private and hygienic feeding areas across the country.

Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Chakravarthi N V, Director – BabyCare, Himalaya Wellness Company, said, “At Himalaya BabyCare, babies and moms are always at the heart of what we do. Our breastfeeding facility initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting mothers with care and thoughtfulness wherever they are. These rooms are a step forward in offering mothers the privacy they seek, without compromising on their mobility or comfort.”

This initiative reflects Himalaya’s mission of ensuring ‘Happy Beginnings’ for every mother and child, while also creating a subtle yet meaningful social shift by recognising and addressing the everyday realities faced by parents in urban and semi-urban India. By combining its Corporate Social Responsibility efforts with a strong brand purpose, Himalaya BabyCare is paving the way for a future where maternal comfort and care are not just supported but prioritized.

Phoenix Palladium Unveils Gourmet Village: South Mumbai’s Landmark for Global Flavors

Mumbai, 22nd July 2025: Phoenix Palladium, Mumbai’s premier luxury lifestyle destination, announces the launch of Gourmet Village at its West Zone, an all-new, thoughtfully curated culinary zone that redefines elevated dining in the heart of South Mumbai. Spreading across two expansive levels on the 3rd and 4th floors of the West Zone, Gourmet Village brings together a collection of 20+ distinctive restaurants cuisines & entertainment.

At its core, Gourmet Village is envisioned as a design-forward dining enclave, a place where food, leisure, and culture blend seamlessly. The space is designed to balance organic charm and refined luxury in a thoughtfully crafted space where natural textures and soothing ambiance come together to give a warm and unique experience

The exclusive culinary lineup at Gourmet Village features a handpicked selection of renowned eateries – each bringing something distinctive to the table:

1. Burma Burma
Celebrated for its vegetarian Asian fare, Burma Burma offers a soulful, spice-forward menu rooted in Burmese culinary traditions.
2. Robata Kuuraku
This Japanese hotspot serves up casual authenticity with its signature robatayaki-style grilled dishes and warm izakaya vibe.
3. Kitchen Garden by Suzette
A wholesome, plant-forward café that champions clean eating with vibrant salads, grain bowls, and cold-pressed juices.
4. Foo
Known for its inventive Asian tapas and energetic bar atmosphere, Foo delivers bold flavors in a chic, contemporary setting — complete with a breezy al fresco section.
5. Andrea’s Brasserie
Making its Mumbai debut, this much-loved Delhi brand offers global comfort food classics in a stylish indoor-outdoor space perfect for relaxed gatherings.
6. Le Pain Quotidien
A European café offering artisanal breads, hearty tartines, and freshly brewed coffee in a warm, rustic setting.
7. Cream Centre
A family-favorite destination for iconic North Indian and fusion dishes, with cult favorites like Chole Bhature and Sizzlers.
8. Fountain Sizzlers
Known for its indulgent sizzler platters and hearty mains, this spot adds comfort and nostalgia to the dining mix.
9. The Silver Train
A transport-themed diner experience that serves a diverse global menu with a side of playful nostalgia.
10. Harley’s Fine Baking
A dessert destination for handcrafted cakes, pastries, and baked delights made with the finest ingredients.
11. Ice Cream Works Gold
Premium ice creams and indulgent sundaes that promise a decadent finish to your meal.
12. Earth Café
A contemporary café with a health-conscious twist, serving up smoothies, superfood bowls, and global café staples.
13. Game Palacio
Rounding off the experience is this luxe gaming and entertainment lounge — perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to play after they dine.

Commenting on the launch, Rashmi Sen, CEO – Malls, said, “At Phoenix, we believe that the future of retail lies in creating immersive, high-quality experiences — and food & beverage is central to that vision. With the launch of this dedicated F&B wing at Phoenix Palladium, we’re proud to bring together some of the finest international names and regional culinary gems under one roof. Curated in close partnership with our exceptional F&B partners, this vibrant new destination — ‘Gourmet Village’ — has been thoughtfully planned to offer a balanced and diverse mix of cuisines, ensuring there’s something for every discerning palate. It is our invitation to the city of Mumbai to dine, discover, and celebrate the joy of exceptional food”.

Gourmet Village is more than a dining space – it’s an elevated lifestyle destination where food, art, and culture come together in perfect harmony. As the new epicenter of community gatherings and personal milestones, and operational till late hours, it offers the perfect setting to host a corporate party, celebrate a birthday in style, or throw a memorable soiree with friends.

BPTP Awards Rs. 910 Crore Civil Works Contract for Gaia Residences & Verti Greens to BL Kashyap & Sons Ltd

Gurugram, July 22, 2025: BPTP, one of North India’s leading real estate developers pleased to announce the award of the civil works construction contract for its landmark residential developments GAIA Residences and Verti Greens on Sector 102 Dwarka Expressway, Gurugram to BL Kashyap & Sons Ltd. (BLK), one of India’s most trusted construction companies.

 Manik Malik, CEO, BPTP said that “BPTP is pleased to announce the awarding of the civil works contract for the construction of Gaia Residences and Verti Greens, together spanning over an approximate 4.2 million square feet Built Up area  of premium residential development on Dwarka Expressway, to BL Kashyap & Sons Ltd. The total contract is valued at approximately Rs.910 crores, underscoring the scale and ambition of this marquee project in Gurugram.

Gaia Residences and Verti Greens are integral to BPTP’s flagship Amstoria community, envisioned to set new benchmarks in design excellence, sustainability, and aspirational living in the NCR region. The projects also brings together world-class design partners  like  DP Architects (Singapore), Aedas (Singapore), Grant Associates, Blink Singapore, Whitby Wood, , Geocon, Nulty Dubai and Sanelac, among others. Multiple additional construction related packages including MEP, façade, interiors, landscaping, and others will also be awarded in due course, amounting to approximately Rs.1000 crore.

With BL Kashyap & Sons Ltd. spearheading the construction and an internationally acclaimed team shaping the vision, BPTP is confident that Gaia Residences and Verti Greens will redefine urban residential living, delivering thoughtfully crafted spaces that offer enduring value to our future residents.”

Acer Unveils New Predator Helios Neo 16 AI and 16S AI Laptops in India

Mumbai/Bangalore, July 22^nd, 2025 – Acer, one of the world’s leading technology brands, today launched the latest additions to its acclaimed Predator gaming portfolio in India — the Predator Helios Neo 16 AI and the Predator Helios Neo 16S AI. Designed for gamers, creators, and professionals who demand high-end performance with cutting-edge AI features, these laptops blend powerful internals, vivid displays, and premium design into a next-gen gaming experience. While the Helios Neo 16 AI delivers desktop-class performance in a traditional chassis, the Helios Neo 16S AI redefines portable gaming as the slimmest Predator laptop ever, with a profile under 18.9mm.

Both models are equipped with up to Intel Core Ultra 9 processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPUs, offering best-in-class performance and intelligent responsiveness. With AI-optimized computing via integrated NPUs, users can offload tasks like background blur, audio enhancement, and image generation for uninterrupted multitasking, streaming, and gaming. The laptops also support NVIDIA DLSS 4, 4th Gen Ray Tracing, and Reflex 2, ensuring sharp visuals and ultra-smooth, responsive gameplay.

The Helios Neo 16 AI comes with a stunning 16-inch WQXGA IPS display with a 240Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, 500 nits brightness, and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut. On the other hand, the Helios Neo 16S AI boasts a WQXGA OLED display, delivering true blacks, enhanced contrast, and lifelike visuals in a lightweight chassis with over 90% screen-to-body ratio. Both models support up to 64 GB DDR5 RAM and 2TB PCIe Gen4 SSD, making them ideal for gamers and creators who need powerful performance on the move.

Acer’s advanced cooling system featuring 5th Gen AeroBlade™ 3D fan, liquid metal thermal grease, and vector heat pipes ensures the laptops stay cool under pressure. Users can personalize their setup with dynamic 4-zone RGB keyboard lighting and customizable RGB cover logo illumination, all easily controlled through PredatorSense™. This utility hub also provides access to system health, AI features, and overclocking tools via a dedicated Copilot key for convenience.

Speaking about the launch, Sudhir Goel, Chief Business Officer at Acer India, said, “With the Predator Helios Neo 16 AI and 16S AI, we are redefining what it means to be mobile and powerful. This is more than just performance — it’s a vision of where gaming and AI computing converge. We are committed to delivering immersive, high-performance machines that empower users to work, create, and game without limits. As India embraces AI-led productivity and digital lifestyles, this launch represents our commitment to enabling that future with innovation at its core.”

With robust connectivity including Thunderbolt™ 4, HDMI 2.1, Killer DoubleShot Pro (Wi-Fi 6E + Ethernet), and USB Type-C, users can expect seamless peripheral integration and ultra-fast networking. Whether you choose the raw power of the Helios Neo 16 AI or the ultra-portable brilliance of the Helios Neo 16S AI, Acer’s newest gaming laptops deliver an exceptional fusion of AI performance, visual immersion, and sleek design.

Meet the Stylish and Convenient Savio Mirror Built-in Microwave by Hindware Smart Appliances

Experience a new level of culinary convenience and precision with the Savio Mirror Built-in Microwave by Hindware Smart Appliances. This ultimate kitchen companion simplifies daily meal prep with its smart, intuitive features. Enjoy effortless control thanks to responsive touch controls and a precise cooking timer, ensuring perfect results every time. Its convenient defrost function provides quick and even thawing, saving you valuable time and effort.

 Beyond its outstanding performance, the Savio is a true design statement. Its premium mirror finish instantly adds a touch of modern elegance to your kitchen interiors, proving that healthy cooking can indeed look this good.

Hassle-Free Cooking with AutoCook Menus

With four versatile cooking modes—Convection, Grill, Combination, and Microwave—it offers flexibility for a variety of recipes, from crispy grilled delights to perfectly baked dishes. For hassle-free cooking, the microwave comes with six AutoCook menus. With the touch of a button, you can prepare Rice, Potato, Pizza, Fish, Chicken, and Meat effortlessly. These smart pre-set programs take the guesswork out of meal preparation, ensuring consistent results while saving time and effort.

Designed with Your Family in Mind

For added safety, the built-in Child Lock provides peace of mind, making it an excellent choice for families with young children. Its smooth interface allows easy navigation, while even heat distribution guarantees perfectly cooked dishes every time.

Seamless Integration, Lasting Quality

The built-in Microwave seamlessly integrates into modular kitchens with a built-in dimension of 566x550x370mm and an overall size of 592x455x390mm. Designed for up to 27L capacity, with stainless steel cavity, and multiple cooking modes, it ensures efficient meal prep. The stainless steel cavity ensures long-lasting durability and hygiene, while a 2-year comprehensive warranty guarantees reliability. 

Priced at INR 47,990, the microwave is available to purchase at Hindware Smart Appliances retail stores across India.

Primebook Champions Internal Mobility to Drive Career Growth and Cross-Functional Learning

New Delhi, India – July 22nd, 2025 – In a strategic move to deepen its commitment to people-first growth and cross-functional innovation, Primebook India, a pioneering Android-based full-stack laptop brand, is spotlighting the success of its internal mobility framework. At Primebook, talent isn’t confined to roles; it’s empowered to evolve.

At the heart of this policy lies a belief that when employees grow, companies thrive. Primebook’s structured yet flexible approach to internal mobility enables team members to explore new domains, take ownership of their interests, and shape their own career trajectories within the organisation.

Take the journey of MD. Dadu, who joined Primebook India two years ago as a Customer Success Representative. His growing curiosity about backend operations and supply chain logistics led him to explore beyond his original role. Supported by the leadership, Dadu transitioned into a new function as a Supply Chain Specialist. Today, he coordinates with vendors and manages logistics that directly shape the customer experience, a shift he initiated and drove.

“I joined Primebook in September 2023 as a Customer Success Executive, and by January 2025, I had transitioned into the role of Logistics Supervisor,” shared Dadu. “The journey has been full of learning and trust. Primebook recognised my curiosity and gave me the space to explore, and that’s what turned my potential into progress.”

Then there’s Raj Bhadra, who came onboard as a UI/UX Designer. Over time, his keen eye for user behaviour paired with his growing interest in product direction led him to contribute beyond design. His evolution into Product Manager reflects the value Primebook places on initiative and multidimensional growth. Today, Raj leads the product team in shaping the future of PrimeOS and the broader Primebook ecosystem.

“I started here as a UI/UX Designer. Today, I’m also leading our product team,” added Raj. “This wasn’t just a promotion, it was a shift from execution to ownership. Primebook is the kind of place where curiosity is noticed, and ambition gets room to build.”

To this, Chitranshu Mahant, Co-founder and CEO, adds, “At Primebook, we don’t believe in static roles. When someone shows initiative, we make space for it. That’s how a company evolves by letting its people lead the change. He also says, “Some of our best product and after-sales service decisions have come from people who started in completely different roles. When you remove rigid hierarchies and allow curiosity to lead, innovation becomes a team-wide habit, not a department’s responsibility.”

These stories reflect Primebook’s broader philosophy: to not just create India’s most accessible computing devices, but also to foster one of the most progressive tech workplaces. By investing in in-house capabilities and enabling lateral movement, Primebook is developing a team that’s agile, self-driven, and equipped to power India’s youth with purpose-built technology.

Philip Morris International’s India Affiliate Recognized by The EQUAL-SALARY Foundation

IPM India receives global certification acknowledging fair pay and commitment to equal growth opportunities for its global workforce

 July 21, 2025: Philip Morris International Inc.’s (PMI) India affiliate IPM India has received a global certification for its achievements in fostering a culture of fairness in the workplace – placing the company among the top organizations globally providing equal pay and growth opportunities for employees. The EQUAL-SALARY Foundation recognized PMI for paying all employees equally for equal work everywhere it operates. This marks the third time that IPM India has been awarded for its equal pay policies since 2019.

The certification demonstrates that IPM India champions equal pay and has established robust and transparent policies that empower every employee to excel and seize equal opportunities for growth and success.

This year, in addition to recognizing fair pay, the certification acknowledges IPM India’s enduring commitment to equal opportunities that enable employees to thrive, grow, and drive change, creating a culture that attracts the best talent.

Commenting on the recognition, Navaneel Kar, Managing Director, IPM India said, “We are honoured to receive the recognition from EQUAL-SALARY Foundation. The certification is a testament to our dedication to equality and fairness- fostering a collaborative and employee centric workplace. We believe organizations with diverse teams and equitable cultures enable innovation & meaningful transformation. We are committed to providing an environment, where our people are rewarded fairly and empowered to reach their full potential, connecting to their purpose, driving positive change.”

“Providing fair and equal remuneration to men and women is our top priority”, added Kingshuk Das, Director, People & Culture, IPM India. “Building talent is fundamental to business success and we are committed to providing the right tools and equal opportunities that supports employees to cocreate their own path. At IPM India, we are constantly adopting best practices where personal situations are understood, differences have value and all people are treated with equity and respect.”

Lisa Rubli, co-CEO of the EQUAL-SALARY Foundation, commented, “PMI’s third global EQUAL-SALARY certification is a landmark achievement. It represents more than a commitment to equal pay for equal work between women and men. It reflects a deep, ongoing effort to build fairness and equal opportunity into every stage of the employee experience. Through rigorous salary analysis and qualitative audits, PMI has demonstrated a culture of openness, accountability, and continuous improvement. This recertification is not only a recognition of what has been achieved for over 83,000 PMI employees around the world, it is a call to the business world to do more.”

Valid for three years, the Equal Pay and Opportunities certification provides independent, third-party verification that IPM India pays all employees fairly and objectively for the same job or a job of equal value. The EQUAL-SALARY Foundation has certified companies in 90 countries, involving almost half a million employees.

PMI has been featured among top 10 companies in the WSJ Management Top 250 Annual Company Ranking. In addition to being recognized by the EQUAL-SALARY Foundation, IPM India has received Great Place to Work certification for four consecutive years and Top Employer recognition for five consecutive years.