6, Jan 2024
Abhishek Soni and Sheilah Jepkorir win the Freshworks Chennai Men’s and Women’s Full Marathon 2024
Chennai, Saturday, January 6, 2024: Abhishek Soni from Madhya Pradesh, won the Men’s full marathon and Sheilah Jepkorir won the women’s full marathon at the 12th edition of the event here today. The Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024 powered by Chennai Runners saw over 20,000 enthusiastic runners participating across categories. This sea of runners were cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd that had gathered at various points along the route of the marathon early this morning from 3.30 am onwards.

The full marathon and twenty miler both started from Napier bridge today morning at 4 am and was flagged off by Dr. Jayanth Murali IPS (Retd) The Commissioner of Police, Greater Chennai, Mr. Sandeep Rai Rathore, IPS flagged off the 10 km run. Dr C Sylendra Babu IPS, flagged off the 10 k, Wheelchair runners. Mrs C Latha, Secretary Tamil Athletic Association, Joint Secretary Athletics Federation of India was also present.
A total of Rs. 20,00,000/- (Twenty Lakhs Only) was distributed as prize money this year to the winners in various categories. The 12th edition of the marathon comprised of runners who were professionals, passionate runners, teams from various corporates across Chennai, several important dignitaries from the corporate world and citizens participating for the first time ever. This year the Freshworks Chennai Marathon saw participation of over 35% women runners. The marathon also had runners who were visually impaired, blade runners, and wheelchair runners.

The Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024 powered by Chennai Runners, was certified by AIMS (The Association of International Marathons and Distance Races), a worldwide association of the organizers of long-distance road running races. Chennai Marathon 2024 is also recognized by Abbott World Marathon Majors as a qualifier event.
In its 12th edition, the Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024, powered by Chennai Runners, the largest running event in Chennai and the second-largest marathon in India, comprised of four events for men and women including, a Full Marathon (42.195 Km) – the flagship race of the event, the Perfect 20 Miler (32.186 Km), the Half Marathon (21.097 Km) and the 10 Km Run.

Like the previous edition, this year the Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024 powered by Chennai Runners focused on increasing awareness of Type 1 diabetics and on raising funds for people with insulin needs.
Abhishek Soni, winner of the Mens Full marathon said, “I love running marathons. This is my 6th marathon. I came to Chennai only to run for this event. I am thrilled to win here today. I am very happy with the Chennai marathon. The facilities are good, we had a very good guide every step of the way. The volunteers were very nice and helped me. There were enough of water points and the weather was also very nice. I was motivated to run well and winning here is a dream for me.”
Partners
Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024 powered by Chennai Runners brought together a host of Chennai-based brands as partners. Baashyaam as Lifestyle Partner, Sundaram Finance Group as Silver Partner, Chennai Metro Rail Corporation as Metro Partner, Apollo Hospitals as Medical Partner, CR Volunteers were the First Responders, Limca Sportz is the Hydration Partner and Unived is the Marathon Fueling partner. Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024 was a zero-waste marathon with Urbaser Sumeet as a partner for recycling and waste audits.

Results
Winners
Full Marathon – Men’s
- Abhishek Soni – 02:34:11
- Sakthivel D – 02:36:23
- Vinoth – 02:38:44
Full Marathon – Ladies
- Sheilah Jepkorir – 02:59:58
- Brigid Jerono Kimitiwai – 03:02:09
- Bijoya Barman – 03:30:12
Half Marathon – Men
- Ramavath Ramesh Chandra – 01:12:10
- Balasubiramanian S – 01:12:41
- Monu Singh – 01:12:49
Half Marathon – Ladies
- Kavitha Yadav – 01:27:33
- Kirutika S – 01:28:55
- Lithanyasree S – 01:30:58
32Km (20 miler) – Men’s
- Simion Kiplagat Too – 01:56:57
- Nanjundappa M – 01:57:18
- Sivanantham S – 01:58:36
32Mm (20 miler) – Ladies
- Aasa TP – 02:22:03
- Pavithra Pavithraiyyappan – 02:27:26
- Geetha Visweetha – 02:35:11
10Kms – Male
- Asif – 00:31:12
- Ritesh Kumar – 00:32:19
- Sathish Kumar – 00: 33:52
10Kms – Ladies
- Priyanka C Chandrashekar – 00:38:53
- Anupriya M – 00:39:29
- Sowmya Selvan – 00:40:01
- 0
- By Rabindra
6, Jan 2024
Indian Dental Association (IDA) and CoverYou Enters into a Strategic Partnership
Mumbai / New Delhi, 06th Jan. 2024: CoverYou, as one of India’s most trusted, fastest-growing, leading providers of comprehensive insurance solutions, a licensed insurance broker authorized by the IRDAI today has entered into a partnership with Indian Dental Association (IDA), an independent and recognized voice of dental professionals in India.
As a testament to CoverYou’s commitment to providing unparalleled insurance services, this collaboration aims to cater to the specific needs of the dental community. The partnership allows IDA members to access a wide range of insurance products designed to safeguard their professional and personal well-being.
Key Highlights of the Partnership:
Professional Indemnity Insurance: CoverYou will offer tailor-made professional indemnity insurance solutions, addressing the unique risks faced by dental professionals in their practice.
Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans will be available, ensuring IDA members and their families receive top-notch healthcare coverage and financial protection.
Motor Insurance: CoverYou’s extensive range of motor insurance products will provide IDA members with options that align with their preferences and needs.
Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Deepanker Mahajan, Co-Founder & CEO, CoverYou said, “We are delighted to join forces with the Indian Dental Association, an esteemed organization dedicated to the advancement of dental professionals. This partnership underscores our commitment to delivering top-notch insurance solutions that cater to the unique needs of the dental community. We look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship, ensuring the peace of mind and security of Indian Dental Association’s members.”
Dr. Ashok Dhoble, Hon. Secretary General, Indian Dental Association, shared their enthusiasm and said, “The collaboration with CoverYou is a significant step in ensuring our members receive comprehensive insurance coverage. This strategic partnership aligns with our commitment to creating awareness as well as supporting the well-being of dental professionals, allowing them to focus on providing optimal oral health for all.”
6, Jan 2024
*Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra by Hon’ble Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman in Chennai*
Chennai, 06.01.2024: Hon’ble Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman graced the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra at West Mambalam, Chennai. The gathering, marked by enthusiastic beneficiaries of diverse government-sponsored schemes, witnessed crucial activities such as awareness campaigns, enrollment drives, and disbursements for beneficiaries under schemes including PM SVANidhi for Street Vendors, MUDRA, Standup India, PMFME, PMEGP for MSMEs, PMAY for housing, Aadhaar enrollment, Ujjwala scheme for LPG beneficiaries, and more, amounting to Rs. 34.42 crores distributed to 373 beneficiaries.
During the event, beneficiaries engaged with the Hon’ble Finance Minister, pledging their commitment under Hamara Sankalp Viksit Bharat to propel India into a developed nation by 2047.
Shri Ajay Kumar Shrivastava, MD & CEO of Indian Overseas Bank, joined the event alongside other dignitaries. As the Lead Bank in Chennai, Indian Overseas Bank orchestrated the successful execution of the program. The participation of various Banks, Oil Marketing Companies, and Health Departments contributed to making the event a resounding success.
5, Jan 2024
M3M Foundation celebrated Late Shri Lal Chand Bansal ji’s birthday
Gurugram, 2023: In a unique New Year celebration, Gurugram witnessed joyous moments as M3M Foundation, in commemoration of Late Shri Lal Chand Bansal Ji’s birthday (Founder of M3M Foundation), extended happiness to the elderly, orphans, and mentally ill individuals. Over 600 people were provided with meals, and warm clothing was distributed at an event held in collaboration with The Earth Savior Foundation at his ashram in Sohna, Gurugram.

This heartfelt initiative, following the distribution of warm clothes to over 12,000 individuals last month, received appreciation from attendees who expressed gratitude to M3M Foundation. Anika Bansal and Piyush Bansal from M3M Group, Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, President of M3M Foundation, along with members of the Foundation team, were present at the event.
Reflecting on the experience, Anika Bansal shared that spending time with the elderly, orphans, and mentally ill people marked a meaningful start to the new year.

On this occasion, Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee of M3M Foundation, expressed, “Though Dada ji is no longer with us, his blessings resonate among us. Finding joy in helping others, especially during challenging times, is truly fulfilling. Today, we take pride in being a pillar of support for those without companionship, the elderly, and those facing mental health challenges. The ‘Share for Care’ initiative, integral to our Duty program, is a significant stride in spreading happiness by aiding those in need.”
The “Share for Care” initiative is part of M3M Foundation’s broader ‘Kartavya’ program, dedicated to alleviating suffering and assisting communities during crises. Originating from the vision of Late Lal Chand Bansal Ji, the initiative has been a consistent effort to spread happiness and support those in need for many years.
5, Jan 2024
Tata Power and ICICI Foundation join hands to launch GhanVan tree plantation programme
Bengaluru, 05 January 2024— With the belief that Sustainable Is Attainable, Tata Power, One of India’s largest integrated power companies, joined hands with ICICI Foundation, the CSR arm of ICICI Bank and its Group Companies, to launch ‘Project GhanVan’ – a visionary tree plantation programme aimed at fostering environmental conservation.
The formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed as a part of the collaboration by senior officials of both the organisations. Over the next three years, the project plans to plant 2.5 lakh indigenous trees across 75 acres of fertile regions in the catchment areas of Tata Power Hydro locations at Bhivpuri, Khopoli and Bhira in Maharashtra, which is part of Western Ghats. This signifies a pivotal step towards a greener and more sustainable future.
As a part of the project, ICICI Foundation will support the initiative by executing plantation activity, installing solar water pumps with drip irrigation facility and maintaining them for a period of three years. It will also undertake special measures like trenching to help protect trees from forest fires. This collaborative effort unfolds in three phases which involves planting 50,000 local indigenous species, including Babul, Tok phal, Kinai, Reshim dhavada, Lakuch, Apta, Pivla Kanchan, Kadilimb, Undi, Kumbha, Bherli mahd, Bhokar selected based on climatic and topography conditions, to be planted on 15 acres.
Project GhanVan prioritizes regional biodiversity preservation, leading to habitat conservation for native avifauna diversity. The project employs advanced methods, including using healthy 2-3-year-old saplings, drip irrigation, and rigorous monitoring until viability is established. Special measures are in place to protect against collateral damage such as grazing and forest fires, aiming for an impressive 90% survival rate. Beyond environmental impact, the project also creates employment opportunities for local communities for maintenance of the plantation sites, fostering sustainable development.

Dr. Praveer Sinha, MD & CEO at Tata Power, highlighted the company’s focus on sustainability, asserting, “Our ‘Sustainable Is Attainable’ movement epitomizes our steadfast commitment towards sustainable development. Our century old efforts have made substantial contributions to the conservation of native biodiversity in the Western Ghats. The partnership with the ICICI Foundation for Project GhanVan is a testament to our ongoing commitment to endorse impactful green initiatives, ensuring a positive influence on both the environment and local communities, paving the way for a sustainable future.”
Sanjay Datta, President, ICICI Foundation, said, “We are delighted to collaborate with Tata Power to launch ‘Project GhanVan’, a tree plantation programme, that embodies our collective commitment to a sustainable green future. Over the years, ICICI Foundation, through its various afforestation initiatives, has planted nearly 26 lakh trees across the country. ICICI Foundation is poised to take forward ‘Project GhanVan’ on the back of its experience from large afforestation and ecological projects in 52 forests and national parks across the country.”
Project GhanVan resonates with Tata Power’s ‘Tree Mittra’ programme, a flagship virtual volunteering initiative by Tata Power, which encourages individuals to adopt, plant, and nurture trees, fostering environmental sustainability. This nationwide plantation drive has garnered participation from employees, families, customers, and stakeholders, resulting in the planting of 6 lakh native trees as part of the afforestation drive as of FY23.
Tata Power is dedicated to conserving biodiversity through multiple approaches that involve safeguarding wildlife and vegetation, as well as raising awareness among employees and local communities. By building waterholes for grassland creatures, studying the biodiversity potential of solar plants, and hosting webinars with specialist groups on subjects like elephant conservation, and river ecology, the organisation is devoted to minimising their environmental impact while also preserving biodiversity. Recently the company also received the prestigious UNDP Mahatma Gandhi Award for Biodiversity which underscores its commitment to sustainability through specific actions and initiatives in biodiversity conservation.
ICICI Foundation is committed to protect and nurture the environment to ensure sustenance of future generations. The Foundation’s key focus is towards activities for environment and ecology, healthcare, societal development and supporting sustainable livelihoods. It has been implementing several environment projects in the areas of tree plantation, sustainable forests, watershed management, and rainwater harvesting. ICICI Foundation has planted over 26 lakh trees till date. It has carried out interventions in 52 forest reserves by way of creating water bodies, habitat restoration, weed removal and protecting biodiversity.
5, Jan 2024
Relive Sibling Bonds with Mera Bhai, streaming exclusively on Amazon miniTV
Mumbai, 5 January 2024: Amazon miniTV – Amazon’s free video streaming service recently released its comedy-drama series Mera Bhai. Revolving around the story of two brothers Bittu and Sittu, the series highlights the ups and downs of their lives, capturing the essence of a brotherly bond. With different personalities, the brothers stand at opposite ends in every situation yet stay together and stronger. Along with its heartwarming storyline, and relatable characters, the series is a roller-coaster ride of emotions. Here are the top reasons why Mera Bhai must be on your binge-watch list.

● Relatable narrative, brimming with emotions: Mera Bhai is a wholesome blend of emotions, comedy, and realism. Each character, including Bittu and Sittu, not only depicts their struggles but also holds significance in mirroring stories that resonate with our daily lives. The narrative strongly holds the honesty and sentiments of their bond. The brothers stick together and emerge stronger and closer than before despite unexpected events and circumstances at every turn.
● An ode to the bond of siblings: Bittu and Sittu’s unusual yet relatable bond binds the story together. While they may not always agree with each other and engage in occasional arguments or fights, their love for each other deepens with each passing episode. The series gracefully depicts the struggle and sacrifices of the elder sibling along with the crazy and mischievous nature of the younger brother. They are each other’s strongest supporters, standing for one another when in need. The series reminds us of the value of our siblings and their love.
● Nostalgic ride of heart-warming memories: With heart-touching moments, and deep-rooted characters, Mera Bhai transports us back to childhood memories of our siblings, leaving us with many emotions. The constant fights, leg-pulling, sharing secrets, lots of laughter and love, the series perfectly captures the nitty-gritty of a sibling bond. Focusing on the strength of their bond and highlighting how they stand together through thick and thin; the series is a trip down memory lane for all of us.
● Skillful ensemble of the cast: The series boasts an ensemble of a talented cast featuring the famous Chinmay Chandraunshuh and Badri Chavan in pivotal roles. Their honest approach towards their character will leave a lasting impact on the viewers. With an immersive experience filled with laughter, tears, flashbacks of memories, and hard-hitting emotions, their on-screen presence feels like a breath of fresh air amidst warm sunlight.
● Watch for Free: Explore the journey of two siblings and how their relationship evolves, facing the hardships of life for free. There is no need for any subscription to watch this heartening delight. Mere Bhai is streaming for free on Amazon miniTV and Fire TV, as well as on the Amazon Shopping App and the Google Play Store.
5, Jan 2024
Meet the wildcard entries of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa Season 11!
This weekend, Sony Entertainment Television’s celebrity dance reality show, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, will see the celebrities deliver breath-taking performances, bringing their A-game to the dance floor. In this week’s unique challenge – ‘Chaar Ka Vaar’, two celebrity contestants along with their choreographers must compete as a team of 4 to impress the FAM trio – Farah Khan, Arshad Warsi, and Malaika Arora. And, in an interesting twist to the show, the show will introduce 6 exciting wild card entries – Awez Darbar with choreographer Vaishnavi Patil, Dhanashree Verma with choreographer Sagar Anjaya Bora, Manisha Rani with choreographer Ashutosh Pawar, Sagar Parekh with choreographer Shivani Patel, RJ Glenn Saldanha with choreographer Arundhati Garnaik and Nikhita Gandhi with choreographer Vipul Kandpal. The talented wild card entries are all set to shake things up and bring an added layer of excitement to the already fierce competition.
Witness the ultimate showdown as Awez Darbar sets the stage on fire with a face-off against Adrija Sinha on the electrifying beats of ‘Mera Wala Dance’. Meanwhile, Nikhita Gandhi and Sreerama Chandra will transform the stage into a rocking concert with their performance on ‘Lat Lag Gayee’. Manisha Rani will turn up the heat as she joins Malaika and Farah for an iconic rendition of ‘Munni Badnaam’, while Dhanashree will captivate the audience with details about Yuzvendra Chahal and their love story. RJ Glenn will take you on a nostalgic trip, channeling the famous characters of ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’ – Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, and Abhay Deol. And last but not least, television fame, Sagar Parekh will prove that he’s truly a mamma’s boy just like his onscreen avatar.
This episode truly promises’ a night filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable performances, and here’s what the new entrants had to say about being a part of the show.
Awez Darbar, known for his infectious energy and mesmerizing dance moves, is ready to take the stage by storm. His unique style and passion for dance are sure to set the bar high for the other contestants. Talking about his entry on the show, Awez says, “I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, and I am beyond excited for the journey that lies ahead. This show has always been on my bucket list, and I am elated to finally get an opportunity to be here. This wild card entry is not just a chance for me to showcase my dance skills, but also an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with some of the most talented individuals in the industry. I am ready to give it my all, push my limits, and leave a lasting impression on the judges, and my fans, who are my biggest strength.”

Dhanashree Verma, a renowned dancer whose graceful moves have garnered her a massive fan following, is ready to make a triumphant return to the dance floor that promises to be nothing short of spectacular. Her determination to excel despite her injury is a testimony to her unwavering spirit and love for dance. Talking about her entry in the show, Dhanashree says, “Entering Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa as a wild card contestant is going to be an exhilarating journey filled with dance and passion for me. I have worked relentlessly on honing my skills as a dancer, and now it’s time to put them to the test. My injury was a setback, but it taught me resilience and the importance of never giving up and this will be the ultimate test for me as I step into the spotlight once again. I am aware that this journey might be physically and mentally demanding, but I am prepared to face it head-on. I have a wonderful support system and coupled with my passion for dance, it will help me make the most of this coveted platform.”
Nikhita Gandhi, with her soulful voice and magnetic persona, is set to showcase her versatility on the stage. Her ability to mesmerize audiences with her singing talent is sure to add a new dimension to the competition. Talking about her entry into the show, Nikhita says, “I am absolutely buzzing with excitement! Dance has always been a passion of mine, and this show gives me the perfect opportunity to combine my love for both singing and dancing. I am eagerly looking forward to challenging myself and pushing my boundaries on the stage. I want to break the mold and show the world that singing and dancing go hand in hand, allowing an artist to express their creativity in different ways. I am passionate about both art forms, and through Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, I aim to showcase my true potential as a performer. It’s not just about proving a point; it’s about exploring uncharted territories and giving my all to this wonderful opportunity.”

Manisha Rani, a rising star, is poised to make her mark on the show with her exceptional talent. Talking about her entry into the show, Manisha Rani says, “My excitement and anticipation are beyond words. This journey is going to be a rollercoaster ride of emotions, challenges, and growth. My goal is to enjoy every moment, make the most of this experience, and create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. I’m ready to dance my way into the hearts of the audiences and show them a side of me they’ve never seen before.”
Glenn Saldanha aka RJ Glenn is no stranger to the airwaves, but now he’s ready to make waves on the dance floor with his unique style. Talking about his entry in the show, Glenn says, “I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa as a wild card contestant! This journey holds a special place in my heart as it is a personal voyage of rediscovery and self-expression. Dancing has been a passion of mine since childhood, and it has always been a part of who I am. However, as life unfolded, I set aside my dancing dreams for a while. But now, after a hiatus of 18 long years, I am reclaiming my passion for dance and pursuing it once again. It’s a chance to reconnect with my true self. This journey is not just about dancing but about embracing the joy, the challenges, and the triumphs that come with pursuing one’s dreams. I am ready to dance like nobody’s watching and I hope to inspire others to do the same!”

Sagar Parekh’s acting skills are well-known, but now, he’s stepping into a new role as a dance sensation, ready to steal the show with his charisma. Talking about his entry in the show, Sagar says, “I am beyond ecstatic to step into the magnificent world of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa as a wildcard contestant! This is a momentous opportunity for me, and I cannot contain my excitement at being part of this prestigious dance show. My excitement isn’t just for myself; it’s also the fulfillment of a dream my mom always had for me. She wished to see me shine on stage, and I’m here to make her dreams come true and make her immensely proud. My mom’s dreams and aspirations have become the driving force of my life, and the love and support I’ve received from my fans have pushed me toward achieving greatness. I’m determined to give my best and leave no stone unturned.”
To watch this thrilling dance battle, tune into Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa this weekend at 9:30 pm only on Sony Entertainment Television!
5, Jan 2024
GIC Re Announces Dividend Payout of Rs 1083.60 Crore for FY 2022-23

Photo caption: Dividend Cheque for FY 2022-23 of Rs.1083.60 crore was handed over to Hon’ble Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman by Shri N. Ramaswamy, Chairman-cum-Managing Director, GIC Re, in the presence of Dr M P Tangirala, Additional Secretary (Ministry of Finance, Dept of Financial Services) standing extreme left and, Shri Hitesh Joshi, General Manager, GIC Re, standing extreme right.
5, Jan 2024
Infiniti Mall, Malad to host an art exhibition – ‘Art Aura’
Mumbai’s leading shopping, entertainment and food destination, Infiniti Mall (a division of K Raheja Realty) and L.S. Raheja School of Art welcomes visitors for ‘Art Aura’ – an art exhibition celebrating 70 glorious years of Arts & Crafts Education Society.
The exhibition will feature engaging activities such as block print workshop, printmaking workshop, stencils workshop and more. Visitors are also given an opportunity to browse through an illuminating lineup of artwork such as paintings, sculptures, paper quilling art and craft, 3D artworks and much more. Students, faculty members and alumni of L.S. Raheja School of Art will also be seen participating in the exhibition.
Details:
Date – 8th to 14th January 2024
Time – 11 am to 9.30 pm
Venue – Infiniti Mall Malad, Malad, Mindspace, Malad West, Mumbai
Chief Guest: Mr. Prabhakar Wairkar, an eminent painter, cartoonist, caricaturist and illustrator will inaugurate the art exhibition on 9th January at 4 pm. He has featured in the ‘Eminent Cartoonist of India’ documentary and also illustrated the autobiography of Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam.
|
Date |
Time |
Program Schedule |
|
8th January 2024 |
11 am onwards |
Display of artwork and art installation |
|
9th January 2014 |
4 to 6 pm |
Inauguration by Chief Guest Mr. Prabhakar Wairkar, an eminent painter, cartoonist, caricaturist and illustrator |
|
10th January 2024 |
11 am to 9.30 pm |
Exhibition on view |
|
4 to 6 pm |
Block print workshop |
|
|
11th January 2024 |
11 am to 9.30 pm |
Exhibition on view |
|
4 to 6 pm |
Printmaking workshop |
|
|
12th January 2024 |
11 am to 9.30 pm |
Exhibition on view |
|
4 to 6 pm |
Stencils workshop |
|
|
13th January 2024 |
11 am to 9.30 pm |
Exhibition on view |
|
4 to 6 pm |
Calligraphy workshop |
|
|
14th January 2024 |
11 am to 9 pm |
Exhibition on view |
|
4 to 6 pm |
Paper quilling workshop |
