Category Archives: News

Siddha Group Illuminates Siddha Sky In Tricolour To Celebrate Independence Day

Kolkata, 16h August, 2024: Siddha Group, a leading real estate player in Eastern India, commemorated the Independence Day by illuminating its flagship project, Siddha Sky, in the colors of the Indian flag. The illumination symbolized the group’s unwavering commitment to national pride and unity.

Siddha Sky’s iconic skyline was decked with vibrant shades of saffron, white, and green, reflecting the spirit of freedom and patriotism. This spectacular display was witnessed by the people of Kolkata, as we celebrated India’s 78th Independence Day.

“Independence Day is a time to honour the vision and sacrifices of our ancestors. By illuminating Siddha Sky, we not only celebrate our nation’s independence but also express our collective pride and commitment to India’s growth and prosperity”, said Mr. Aayushman Jain, Director, Siddha Group.

Fresh Bus Raises INR 87.5 Crore Series A to Expand Route Network and Scale Operations

Bengaluru August 16, 2024: All-electric, digital-first intercity bus startup Fresh Bus has raised INR 87.5 Crore ($10.5 million) through its Series A funding round. The Series A financing was led by international early-stage transportation-focused VC fund Maniv, with participation from Shell Ventures, Alteria Capital, and existing investor Riverwalk Holdings.

With its state-of-the-art fleet of 20 electric buses, Fresh Bus today provides seamless, convenient, affordable and eco-friendly travel on its current Bengaluru-Tirupati and Hyderabad-Vijayawada routes. Fresh Bus offers customers a digital-first customer experience, with best-in-class ticketing, real-time tracking of buses, a robust loyalty program, and more.

With this new injection of funding, Fresh Bus will expand its route network by adding 15 new routes and launching 150 e-buses soon. The new round will finance Fresh Bus’ fast-growing fleet. Fresh Bus will use the funds to scale its operations, enhance its technological capabilities, and strengthen its strategic team to drive growth. Fresh Bus was previously backed by notable industry leaders including Kunal Shah, Founder & CEO, CRED, Sudarshan Venu, MD, TVS Motors, and Deepak Garg, CEO & Founder, Rivigo. Earlier, Fresh Bus also secured 16 Cr as an investment from ixigo, a leading Indian OTA.

“Having served over 4 lakh passengers to date with an impeccable 95% OTP (On-Time Performance), an industry best, our goal is to establish a nationwide network and become the Indian market leader for intercity bussing in the upcoming years,” said Sudhakar Chirra, Founder & CEO of Fresh Bus: “We expect to scale to 1000 electric buses pan-India over the next four years, generate skilled employment opportunities for thousands of people and offer a green alternative for mass road transportation.”

Every day, over a hundred thousand bus services transport over 1 Cr Indians between the country’s cities, a market worth over INR 84,000 crore today. Since its inception, Fresh Bus has saved over 42 lakh liters of diesel, reducing nearly 15,000 tons of CO2 emissions – an impact equivalent to saving about 2.5 lakh trees.

“Fresh Bus is demonstrating that the wide-scale decarbonization of transportation is not a promissory burden but an already lucrative economic opportunity,” said Nate Jaret, partner at Maniv Mobility, a transportation-focused early-stage venture fund investing globally. “India’s intercity bus travel is ripe for disruption, and Sudhakar’s team is rapidly modernizing it through innovations in drivetrain, infrastructure, and customer experience.”

“Electrifying mobility in India offers a unique chance to improve air quality, cut emissions, and reduce costs. Fresh Bus leads in electric intercity travel, driven by a data-driven, customer-focused approach.”, said Robert Linck, Shell Ventures’ Chief Investment Officer.

“We are excited to double down on our investment and back the Freshbus team to create a sustainable and customer-first bus travel experience”, said Jai Sumer Singh, Partner at Riverwalk Holdings, an early-stage VC fund.

Bhai Parmanand Vidya Mandir Celebrates Independence Day with Pride

Delhi- Bhai Parmanand Vidya Mandir (BPVM), a top school in the region, proudly celebrated India’s 78th Independence Day with a grand event that emphasized the spirit of patriotism and unity among students, staff, and the community. The celebration commenced with the hoisting of the national flag by the Chief Guest, followed by the national anthem sung by the school choir, resonating a sense of pride and honor.

The event was graced by a series of cultural programs, including patriotic songs, dances, and skits performed by the students, reflecting India’s rich heritage and diversity. Another key highlight of the day was the Investiture Ceremony, where newly elected student leaders were sworn in, symbolizing responsibility and commitment towards their school and peers.

The day’s highlight was a thought-provoking speech by the Academic Director, Mrs. Pratibha Sharma, who inspired the audience with her words of wisdom. In her address, Mrs. Sharma said, “Independence Day is not just a reminder of our hard-earned freedom but also a call to action for each one of us to contribute positively to our nation. At BPVM, we are committed to nurturing future leaders who embody the values of integrity, responsibility, and patriotism. Our students are the torchbearers of tomorrow, and we have to equip them with the knowledge and skills to shape a better future for our country.”

The celebration concluded with a pledge taken by students and teachers to uphold the values of freedom and work towards the progress and prosperity of the nation. BPVM continues to strive for excellence in education while fostering a deep sense of national pride and responsibility among its students.

Insight Cosmetics Launches Campaign to Honor Soldiers’ Sisters on Independence Day and Raksha Bandhan

16th August 2024 New Delhi : Insight Cosmetics, a leading name in the cosmetic industry, celebrates Independence Day and Raksha Bandhan by paying tribute to the tireless spirits of the nation’s soldiers and their families. As a token of appreciation, the brand is sending exclusive gifts to the sisters of around 50 soldiers, symbolizing the bond of protection and the spirit of freedom.

This initiative not only embodies the spirit of Raksha Bandhan and Independence Day but also highlights Insight Cosmetics’ commitment to honoring and supporting the sisters of soldiers.
The brand demonstrates its commitment to honoring the distinctive contributions of soldiers and the unbreakable bond of protection and freedom by sending special gifts to their sisters.

Expressing thought on this heartfelt initiative, Mr. Mihir Jain the Sales and Marketing Director of Insight Cosmetics, says “As we celebrate India’s 78th Independence, we are reminded of the sacrifices made by countless soldiers and their families to protect our freedom. And this small gesture is our way of saying thank you to these incredible women who stand strong while their brothers serve our country.”

With this initiative, Insight Cosmetics continues to reinforce its commitment to celebrating the spirit of Indian festivals while the real heroes are protecting the country. The brand believes in the power of beauty to uplift and empower, making this Independence Day and Raksha Bandhan a memorable one for the sisters who receive these special gifts.

Future Generali India Life Insurance Company Ltd. Launches “Invest in Independence” campaign

Mumbai, August 16, 2024 – Future Generali India Life Insurance Company Ltd. has announced the launch of the “Invest in Independence” campaign featuring a video podcast series aimed at empowering Indians to achieve financial freedom and security through effective financial planning. The campaign, centered around the theme of Indian Independence Day, will be live throughout the month of August.

 The cornerstone of the campaign is a series of relatable films aimed at recognizing the contemporary challenges of balancing daily life with life’s aspirations such as early retirement, homeownership, leisure travel, and more. Through this campaign, Future Generali India Life Insurance is highlighting the importance of financial independence and demonstrating how life insurance plays a vital role in achieving it, guiding individuals on how they can aspire to attain financial freedom.

 Financial planning is essential for achieving life’s major milestones and securing financial freedom. The ‘Invest in Independence’ campaign emphasizes the value of life insurance to reach short, medium, and long-term financial goals. The campaign also highlights the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement, which encourages early retirement through strategic savings and investments, particularly resonating with the younger generations such as Gen Z and Millennials.

 The 360-degree campaign features a series of short-form, impactful films across various digital platforms. These engaging content pieces will reinforce the message that life insurance is not just a financial product but a pathway to financial empowerment and security.

 Commenting on the launch, Geetanjali Chugh Kothari, Chief Marketing Officer said, ” We believe that financial independence is a fundamental aspect of a fulfilling life. Through this campaign, we aim to equip individuals with the knowledge and tools to take control of their financial future. Life insurance is a crucial component of this journey, and we are committed to helping individuals achieve their aspirations.”

TECNO Named Official Global Supporter of AFC Club Competitions, Celebrating Asian Football’s Unstoppable Spirit

Kuala Lumpur – August 16th, 2024: Innovative technology brand TECNO announced today that it has become the Official Global Supporter of the Asian Football Confederation’s newly unveiled club competitions, the AFC Champions League Elite™, the AFC Champions League Two™, and the AFC Women’s Champions League™ for the 2024-2025 season. This strategic cooperation underscores TECNO’s dedication to enhancing its reach across its core markets in Asia, and to fostering a meaningful connection with every football fan that shares its “Stop at Nothing” spirit of progress and innovation.

The partnership was unveiled at an official signing ceremony in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where AFC representatives and TECNO executives expressed their enthusiasm and ambitions for the partnership.

“This partnership embodies the shared values of passion, excellence, and innovation between TECNO and the AFC. More than just a sponsorship, it is a milestone displaying the brand spirit of ‘Stop at Nothing’ and a celebration for both parties embarking on a new journey and creating more impactful experiences for fans across Asia” said Laury Bai, Chief Marketing Officer of TECNO.

“At TECNO, we always believe in the power of sports to unite communities and inspire progress. This collaboration allows us to not only empower every Asian football fan globally to have a more interactive and immersive experience at matches through our advanced technology, but to also build a deeper connection of shared passion between TECNO and football fans.”

Datuk Seri Windsor John, General Secretary of the AFC, said: “As the AFC enters into a new era of innovation and transformation, spearheaded and driven by the revamp of our club competitions, we are delighted to welcome an entity that shares common values in global innovative technology brand, TECNO.

“We thank TECNO for recognising the ever-increasing global appeal of the AFC’s world-class competitions, which are poised to herald unprecedented levels of growth in the coming years, and we look forward to working in close partnership with them to create more engaging moments with the passionate fans of Asian football.”

By tapping into the vast fan base of AFC club competitions, with global television viewership close to 1 billion, TECNO is poised to connect with huge sports communities, enhancing the joy and excitement of football and encouraging people to bring the passion of the game into their daily lives. As digital experiences have grown to become an indispensable part the football fan experience, and as the demand for smart technology continues to rise across Asia, TECNO aims to expand its brand presence in various markets across the continent through its partnership with the AFC. By making cutting-edge technology and products more accessible, TECNO hopes to bring unique, immersive digital experiences to football fans to enhance the way they experience football in their daily lives.

Furthermore, the partnership underscores TECNO’s enduring commitment to utilizing sports as a bridge to resonate with global consumers and create shared experiences amongst its audiences. The belief in the power of sports and technology to inspire individuals to make progress, chase dreams, and purse their passions is embedded in TECNO’s brand DNA, and the brand has been dedicated to bringing this belief to life by creating meaningful programs that motivate consumers to unlock their potential through sports.

In the past, through its sponsorship of the 34th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), TECNO created a lasting impact with a series of campaigns that made matches available to the entire football community in Africa by creating unique viewing experiences, in addition to making football accessible to more remote African communities by committing to renovating 100 football fields across Africa over the next five years. Through its partnership with AFC, TECNO will continue to elevate and innovate to deliver similar unforgettable experiences in Asia and inspire football fans to champion its “Stop at Nothing” spirit together to create more and build a better future together.

Audi India opens bookings for the new Audi Q8

Mumbai, August 16, 2024: Audi, the German luxury car manufacturer, today commenced bookings for the new Audi Q8 in India. This latest addition to the Q-range, the new Audi Q8 combines sophisticated design, advanced technology, and robust performance.

The new Audi Q8 can be booked with an initial amount of INR 5,00,000.

Mr. Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India said, “The Audi Q8 has always connected strongly with our customers who appreciate luxury and innovation, firmly establishing itself as a flagship offering and playing a significant role in driving our brand’s growth in the premium SUV segment. With its bold design, advanced technology, and unparalleled performance, we are confident that the new Audi Q8 will strongly resonate with our customers who demand nothing but the best.”

The new Audi Q8 is powered by a 3.0L TFSI engine delivering 340 hp and 500 Nm of torque, featuring BSVI-compliant technology and a 48V Mild Hybrid system for superior performance and efficiency. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h.

The new Audi Q8 will be available in eight exterior colours: Sakhir Gold, Waitomo Blue, Mythos Black, Samurai Gray, Glacier White, Satellite Silver, Tamarind Brown, and Vicuna Beige. The interior will be offered in four colour options: Okapi Brown, Saiga Beige, Black, and Pando Gray.

Simiran Kaur Dhadli returns with a bang: ‘Time Hai Ni’ is all set to dominate Punjabi Pop Music Scene

National; 16th August 2024: Known for her powerful voice and charismatic presence, Simiran Kaur Dhadli brings her signature style to her latest release “Time Hai Ni,” delivering an energetic performance that is sure to leave an impact. With its infectious beat and empowering message, this song is more than just a tune—it’s a celebration of self-worth and confidence.

It is a powerful anthem with a bold assertion that explores themes of personal empowerment, self-worth, and the rejection of superficial relationships. With its catchy hook and vibrant rhythm, the song reflects Simiran’s unique blend of traditional Punjabi sounds with a modern twist. The lyrics, written with sharp wit and emotional depth, will resonate with anyone who has ever felt undervalued or disrespected.

 Sharing her thoughts on the release, performer, lyricist, and composer Simiran Kaur Dhadli expresses, “This track ‘Time Hai Ni’, is a way of celebrating independence personally. It’s a reminder to every woman out there to prioritise their own time without being apologetic. I wanted to create a song that makes every woman feel strong and unstoppable. This track is my way of saying, ‘Your time is precious, and you deserve to own it’. I hope the audience experiences the same energy and power with ‘Time Hai Ni’.”

Produced by Desi Trap Music, ‘Time Hai Ni’ showcases a fusion of tradition and modernity. Blending powerful vocals with a contemporary edge, the track has created a beat that is impossible to resist.

Embark on an exciting journey with ‘PEPPA PIG’s Adventure’, brought to India by BookMyShow Live

National, August 16, 2024: Get ready to join everyone’s favourite little piggy, Peppa Pig, on an unforgettable adventure filled with laughter, friendship and fun! ‘PEPPA PIG’s Adventure’, a brand-new live stage show produced and promoted by BookMyShow Live, the live entertainment experiential division of BookMyShow, licensed from leading toy and game company, Hasbro, Inc. and presented by Kotak White Credit Card, promises to delight audiences of all ages.

Children’s favourite and one of the most charming, animated characters, Peppa Pig is coming to India for a third oink-tastic season, as she brings her friends and family on a trip, for a brand-new fun-filled season that promises a snout-standing spectacle complete with bucketful of surprises and fun.

Scheduled to go snorting out on laughter and learning across seven cities in India – Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Chennai and Ahmedabad, ‘PEPPA PIG’s Adventure’ will enamour each city with six shows per weekend from September 21, 2024 onwards and this time with a brand-new script specially crafted to tickle Indian audiences pink!

Exclusive Pre-Sale of tickets for Kotak credit card customers will begin on August 23, 2024 at 12 Noon (PM) IST on BookMyShow, offering first access to tickets for this high-demand show, with special offers available for Kotak White and White Reserve credit card holders. General On-Sale of tickets for PEPPA PIG’s Adventure’ will go live starting August 25, 2024 at 12 Noon (PM) IST, exclusively on BookMyShow, India’s leading entertainment destination. Tickets for both the Pre-Sale and General On-Sale will be available for the first leg of the live show across Mumbai, Pune and Delhi. This will be followed by a phased release of ticket sales throughout the season.

Commenting on the announcement, Owen Roncon, Chief of Business – Live Events, BookMyShow, said, “Peppa Pig has captured the hearts of children and families around the world and this live stage show is a fantastic opportunity for fans to experience Peppa’s world. Following the resounding success of two previous seasons, we’re thrilled to announce the return of everyone’s favourite character to India with PEPPA PIG’s Adventure’, introducing a fresh storyline that promises to captivate audiences. This latest instalment of the beloved theatrical production aligns with our commitment to offering engaging and immersive entertainment for all ages. Not only does it spark creativity and imagination, but it also imparts valuable life lessons to children. Our goal is to create magical and transcendental shared experiences for families, forging cherished memories that will endure over time. With the overwhelming success of past editions, we are confident that ‘PEPPA PIG’s Adventure’ will continue to delight children and families alike, fostering a sense of fun and togetherness with loved ones.”

Sharing the enthusiasm, Frederick Dsouza, Business Head – Credit Cards, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. said, “Kotak curates experiences for its credit card customers who appreciate premium live entertainment. Kotak is thrilled to present the globally adored PEPPA PIG’s Adventure live show to India, in partnership with BookMyShow Live. Peppa Pig is a beloved character not only for children but it also resonates with families, globally. Parents and kids can secure their tickets by booking their preferred seats during the pre-sale. We’re thrilled to create this unique offering for our credit card customers with the opportunity to have first access to tickets and we are confident the kids are in for a memorable, joyful evening.”

Following the tremendous success of previous PEPPA PIG live productions over two seasons of ‘PEPPA PIG Celebration!’ in India featuring 82 shows across 11 cities, ‘PEPPA PIG’s Adventure’ takes families on a magical journey they will not forget. Packed with interactive dialogues, charming songs and of course, plenty of muddy puddle jumping, this live show brings the beloved characters from the hit animated series to life in a whole new way.

Join Peppa, her little brother George, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig, Suzy Sheep, Pedro Pony, Gerald Giraffe and a whole cast of beloved characters as they set off on a thrilling camping trip full of surprises. With colourful sets, catchy music and plenty of audience participation, ‘PEPPA PIG’s Adventure’ is the perfect outing for families looking for a dose of entertainment.

The colourful world of Peppa will feature a never-seen-before theatrical guaranteeing giggles and snorts for all Peppa fans with catchy songs, wiggly dances, fun lessons and much more! This isn’t just any ordinary outing – it’s a day filled with laughter, surprises and unforgettable moments. With vibrant sets, lively music and interactive elements, ‘PEPPA PIG’s Adventure’ is a sensory feast whether you’re a die-hard Peppa fan or discovering the magic for the first time.

The Akshaya Patra Foundation Collaborates with Dr. Majeed Foundation to Empower Education Through Scholarships

Bengaluru, India – 16th August, 2024 – The Akshaya Patra Foundation, a leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to eradicating classroom hunger and malnutrition in India, is proud to announce its latest initiative in educational empowerment—the ‘Scholarship Program’, in association with Dr. Majeed Foundation. This year, the program has pledged an impressive total of Rs. 25 lakhs in scholarships, benefiting over 130 deserving students from government and government-aided schools.

Through this initiative, The Akshaya Patra Foundation aims to extend its mission beyond the successful Mid-Day Meal Scheme, now known as Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN). The scholarships will support 75 students graduating from 11th or 12th grade and 55 students completing their Bachelor’s degrees, covering their full academic fees and enabling them to pursue higher education without financial constraints.

The scholarship distribution event was held at MVT Hall, Iskcon Campus, Bangalore & was graced by Dr. Anju Majeed, Group Executive Chairperson of the Sami-Sabinsa Group; Mr. Shridhar Venkat, CEO, The Akshaya Patra Foundation and Sri Gunakara Rama Dasa, Regional President – Karnataka, The Akshaya Patra Foundation.

In her note, Dr. Anju Majeed, Group Executive Chairperson, Sami-Sabinsa Group, said, “The Dr. Majeed Foundation, since its inception, has provided academic and financial support to numerous needy students, eliminating dropouts. We are fortunate to have had the chance to assist The Akshaya Patra Foundation in its efforts by contributing Rs. 29 lakh towards student scholarships and helping the organization in their mid-day meal program. It is gratifying to note that our efforts will improve the students learning outcomes.” “In 2023, the Dr. Majeed Foundation has donated Rs. 50 lakh to The Akshaya Patra Foundation to provide nutritious meals for schoolchildren in the State,” she added.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Shridhar Venkat, CEO, The Akshaya Patra Foundation, expressed, “At The Akshaya Patra Foundation, we believe that education is the cornerstone of personal and societal growth. With this scholarship program, we are committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent talented young individuals from achieving their academic and professional dreams. Our goal is not just to feed the body but to nourish the mind, empowering a generation to rise above their circumstances and contribute meaningfully to our society.”

The foundation’s commitment to education extends beyond meal provision, aiming to cultivate a holistic educational environment that supports students from the classroom to their careers. This year, the foundation aims to support over 10,000 students, reinforcing its commitment to creating a future-ready workforce.

As we move forward, The Akshaya Patra Foundation remains dedicated to expanding its circles of care, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. With the support of our partners and the community, we continue to make strides towards a healthier, more educated society.