The three-day music and dance extravaganza, Ramayana Kalpavrksam begins

Hyderabad, 30th March 2024: The 3-day music and dance extravaganza, the signature festival, ‘Ramayana Kalpavrksam’, began today at the CCRT Campus, Hyderabad. Chief Guest Sri Sri Sri Tridandi Srimannarayana Ramanuja Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji, inaugurated the festival. Celebrated Classical dancer, scholar, speaker and writer, Ananda Shankar Jayant, IIRTS (Retd.), Padmashrii and SNA Awardee; in association with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, Shankarananda Kalakshetra Natyarambha and Brhat; is hosting the signature festival.

The festival presents a visual treat with a stellar lineup of events that include a galaxy of renowned artists and speakers from across the country, with something for all ages. It includes scintillating performances, ranging from the classical to the popular; thought provoking talks and discussions, immersive arts workshops in dance ideation, Sanskrit and digital arts, Book release, Artisans Corner, meet the Legend, and a plethora of other special features.

Sri Sri Sri Tridandi Srimannarayana Ramanuja Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji, said, that this year is really unique, as Lord Rama after several centuries came back to his abode, the whole world is celebrating this divine event. In Tretha yuga when Rama came back to his kingdom, people celebrated it. But his return this time is unique because no person had the courage to invite him to his own place, but our beloved Prime Minister, brought Rama back with favorable legal outcome and constructed a grand temple. Therefore this year is historic as its rejuvenating the Bharat atma and Bharat Culture. Now that Rama has returned, it’s our responsibility to know more, talk more about Rama, sing the glories of Rama and share all the virtues he valued and represented. Therefore performing Ramayana Kalpavrksam is so very apt today. Ramayana happened 1.7 million years ago as per our scriptures, but we still discuss Rama, because we never consider Rama to be someone else, we consider him someone dear to us. Rama was a real human being in his avatar, Valmiki never thought of Rama as a god, he was god prior to and after his avatar. He lived his life on earth as a human being and that is the reason we worship him even today. If we lead a life like a real human being we will be worshiped even by devatas. Rama didn’t ask for a temple for himself, we built it to gain the spirit and values he embodied. Rama is considered Adarsha Purshotama, and Rama and Ramayana are the personas we aspire to emulate.

Ananda Shankar Jayant speaking on the occasion said the three-day Ramayana Kalpavrksam festival has something for everyone and every age group. It activates the Sree Rama Chetana and an yearning to go back to our roots of knowledge and wisdom. Sree Rama and the story of the Ramayana is a story which transcends age and time. Sree rama has been precious to us for millennia. We are happiest telling and retelling the story of Ramayana, as story tellers, performers, listeners, and viewers. It continues to inspire scholars, artists across centuries. After the stupendous success of last year’s festival and popular demand, we are excited to bring back to you Ramayana Kalpavrksam, this year.

Chitra Visveswaran, Indian Bharata Natyam dancer & Chidambaram Academy of Performing Arts, Chennai; said, the Ramayana will ever remain green, may the next generation seek through it and receive through it the tenets of Bhakti which hold together the fabric of Bharatiya Sanskriti.

Ms Suchitra Yella, CEO, of Bharat Biotech, said, the music and art forms of India are very dear and close to my heart, thanks to my parents who instilled those value systems in us when we were very young.

On day one, today, the festival witnessed a dance choreographed by Ananda Shankar Jayant, Sri Rama Namam – Entha Ruchi Ra and A Civilisation rises again – Ayodhya, a Ground Report talk by Swati Goel Sharma.

The festival has a wide bouquet of performances talks and workshops with something for everyone, over the next two days. A Kala Grama – artisans market with rare cultural products will also be functional during the festival. Interested can register on www.ramayanakalpavrksam.com

Advertising Club of Madras Announces a Bigger and Brighter 42nd MADDYs 2024, Advertising Award

The Advertising Club of Madras, one of the oldest and active advertising clubs in the country is thrilled to announce the return of its highly anticipated flagship event – the 42nd MADDYs 2024.

This year’s MADDYs promises to be bigger and better. Recognizing the ever-evolving advertising landscape, the Ad Club Madras has expanded the award categories (146) to encompass the latest trends and innovations and to ensure a more inclusive platform that celebrates excellence across all facets of advertising.

What’s New?

MADDYs 2024 boasts a refreshed award segment structure which is simple. This simplified approach makes the entire process of entering easier and more efficient for agencies and individuals. Awards are categorised as Creative, Digital, Media, and Unpublished.

Creative Awards has been extensively opened up for multiple industry verticals

(FMCG, Consumer Durables, Automobiles, Retail, Health & Wellness, Hospitality, Banking & Insurance, Education, Online services, Telecom, Real Estate, Media & Entertainment, Public Services) and comprise of 98 categories under it. These categories would cover all types of media i.e, Print, Television, Radio, OOH & Digital. We have added Maddys Design, Maddys Craft, Video(for Production Houses), Radio, Best use of AI, Public Service, Regional(Tamil), and Integrated campaigns under the Creative Awards section this year.

Digital Awards comprise 20 categories that are relevant to the type and nature of campaigns Digital Agencies deliver for clients today and are broadly classified under Creative/Content, Mobile, Websites & Digital campaigns.

Media Awards have been extensively thought through and comprise of 22 categories under Media Innovation, Media Strategy, Events & Brand Activation, and Integrated campaigns.

Unpublished Awards comprised six categories to bring out passionate work that may not be commissioned by the client but recognized by the advertising fraternity.

We’re also introducing Digital Agency Of The Year & Client Of The Year along with our coveted Creative Agency Of The Year & Media Agency Of The Year.

Detailed information about the revamped categories and entry guidelines will be available on the official MADDYs

“In line with the evolving trends within our industry, we have introduced several new categories and revitalized existing segments, thus ensuring a more comprehensive scope. Our aim in making these adjustments is to broaden our reach and enhance accessibility for a diverse array of participants. Through these updates, we aspire to celebrate and acknowledge advertising talents across various domains,” remarked S Balasubramanian, President of Advertising Club Madras.

MADDYs remains one of the largest and most prestigious advertising awards shows in India. It serves as a coveted recognition for creative minds and agencies, media innovations & strategies showcasing the best of the region’s advertising talent. The awards ceremony is a highly anticipated industry event, bringing together the entire fraternity from advertising and marketing for a night of celebration and recognition.

For the 3rd consecutive time, the entire process of entries and judging is completely online using the International online award platform – Judgify.

“Embarking on our 42nd Maddys Advertising Awards journey, we’ve meticulously crafted 146 categories, a testament to our profound industry research and insightful conversations with both the advertising fraternity and clients. This extensive array truly encapsulates the breadth and depth of modern advertising and ensures that every agency, regardless of size, finds a platform to shine, with each work meticulously evaluated by our eminent jury. The Maddys 2024 promises to be a celebration of diversity, innovation, and excellence, setting new standards in the dynamic world of advertising.” said Surej Salim, Secretary of Advertising Club Madras

Vedanta debt to be divided among demerged firms in ratio of assets

Bangalore: Mining conglomerate Vedanta is on track for the demerger of its key businesses, including aluminium, into separate listed companies and allocation of debt across the demerged entities would be done in proportion to their assets, sources familiar with the matter said.

Vedanta is in advanced stages of engagement with its lenders on the issue, and the process has proceeded smoothly, they said.

There is clarity about the allocation of debt across entities after the demerger. “The debt will get divided amongst the resulting demerged entities in the ratio of assets getting allocated to them as per the prescribed rules and regulations,” a senior company official said at a recently concluded investor event.

Citing the example of Vedanta Aluminium, the official said the debt that would get allocated to the company would be in direct proportion to the book value of the assets held by it. This is to ensure that the transaction is tax-neutral.

Vedanta had in September last year announced the creation of a demerger of metals, power, aluminium, and oil and gas businesses to unlock potential value. After the exercise, six independent verticals – Vedanta Aluminium, Vedanta Oil & Gas, Vedanta Power, Vedanta Steel and Ferrous Materials, Vedanta Base Metals and Vedanta Limited – will be created. For every share of Vedanta, shareholders will receive one share of each of the five newly listed companies.

After the demerger, the businesses of Hindustan Zinc as well as the electronics business will remain with Vedanta Limited. Immediately after obtaining the NOCs, the application will be moved to NCLT.

SBICAPs has been onboard to represent lenders concerning debt allocation and they are hopeful to obtain the NOCs at the earliest, sources said. In parallel to the demerger, Vedanta is also undertaking a deleveraging programme to cut debt at the group level by $3 billion in the next three years, taking its net debt level below $9 billion.

The deleveraging is expected to be funded largely by robust internal cash flows, further supported by proceeds of strategic asset sales and potential equity partnerships.

“The demerger is expected to simplify the Group’s corporate structure with sector-focused independent businesses. Each of our businesses is at a global scale hence the board decided to go for a demerger. We intend to build a corporate structure with asset ownership and entrepreneurship mind-set, where each company would chart out its growth trajectory.

“The demerger will give global investors, including sovereign wealth funds, retail investors, and strategic investors, direct investment opportunities in dedicated pure-play companies. With listed equity and self-driven management teams, the demerger would also provide individual units a platform to pursue strategic agendas more freely and better align with customers, investment cycles, and end markets,” Vedanta had said in its demerger announcement.

Enigmatic Easter celebrations at Infiniti Mall

Mumbai’s premier food, shopping, and entertainment destination Infiniti Mall is gearing up to host patrons at their Andheri and Malad locations for an exciting Easter celebration featuring a line-up of engaging activities.

The activities are sure to entice children of all ages and make Easter a memorable occasion. Activities include a captivating magic show performance, a paper crafting workshop fueling the artistic inclination of children, a fun puppet show, and a face painting workshop to get some striking tattoos.

Details:

Date – 30th & 31st March, 2024

Venue – Infiniti Mall Andheri & Malad

Time – 4:30 pm onwards

Eaton’s Mobile Tech Day, an exclusive roadshow unveils state-of-the-art solutions across 11 States

PONDICHERRY, INDIA – Intelligent power management company Eaton showcased its Mobile Tech Day 2024 in Pondicherry this month. The roadshow aimed to exhibit Eaton’s state-of-the-art solutions in electrical, mobility, and aerospace technologies that are set to revolutionize industries. The 40-foot advanced trailer traveled the length and breadth of India, connecting Eaton’s industry experts with customers face-to-face.

This exciting journey began in April 2023, with a grand flag-off ceremony in Haryana. In Pondicherry, the trailer was stationed at Sedarpet, Thiruvandarkoil, Neyveli, Gothi Industrial Complex, and Nettapakkam Commune.

This unique initiative has already made its mark—covering 11 states and extending its reach to over 60 cities within a few months in the northern region.

Commenting on Eaton’s portfolio of Electrical solutions, Syed Sajjadh Ali, Managing Director, Electrical Sector, India, Eaton, said, “At Eaton, we recognize the enormous potential that India holds and are eager to explore opportunities to collaborate in the country’s infrastructure and commercial growth. As a leader in electrical products, systems, and services for power quality, distribution, control, and wiring, our electrical business offers technology-driven solutions that address the critical needs of diverse markets such as industrial, utility, commercial, residential, and information technology. This Mobile Tech Day campaign brings an exciting opportunity for Eaton to showcase our industry-leading technology solutions and product offerings to customers and end-users in the region.”

Commenting on Eaton‘s Mobility portfolio, Shailendra Shukla, Managing Director, Mobility Group, India, Eaton, said, “Eaton’s power management & eMobility solutions position us as an ideal partner for leading players and vehicle OEMs in India’s focused segments, enabling their growth and success. We are also the preferred choice for the aftermarket space, and we partner closely with our distributors, resellers, and users for our aftermarket products and solutions. We take pride in the fact that we engineer to meet the specific needs of each segment with industry best practices. By doing so, we help our customers manage power more safely, reliably, efficiently, and sustainably. Our eMobility business provides a robust portfolio of solutions by combining elements from our Mobility and Electrical businesses.”

The Tech Day highlighted Eaton’s innovative products spanning business sectors – Electrical, Mobility, and Aerospace. Within the exhibit, Eaton’s electrical division boasted diverse solutions tailored to meet individual customer needs. The electrical solutions included a comprehensive suite of medium voltage switchgear solutions. The products from Eaton’s electrical business, caters to a wide range of applications, offering both standardized and customized options to meet specific customer needs. The key solutions featured include medium voltage switchgear: Xiria, RVAC, Low voltage switchgear: ACB, MCB, MCCB, RCD, Fusegear: Bussmann range of HV/LV/EV fuses, Power Quality: 9PX and DXRT (1-ph online UPS), 93PR (3-ph UPS), EV Chargers: 22kW AC charger, and Software Solutions: Brightlayer.

In the mobility technology space, Eaton showcased Clutch Assemblies, Transmission: 9-speed and 4-speed (compatible with EVs), Traction control: MLD NoSpin Differential, and Air management: engine valves and valve actuation.

In Eaton’s aerospace solutions, the highlighted are complete aircraft electrical power solutions: circular and rectangular connectors, back-shells, signal and power contacts, fiber optic solutions, cable assemblies and conduits, power conversion, and hold-down and release actuators.

Wedding summit to be held in Jaipur on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Vision Wedding in India’

A press conference was organized by WV Connect at the Leela Ambience Gurugram to unveil the exciting fusion of technology and weddings set to be showcased at the WV Connect Tech Edition, Season 3 in Jaipur from April 4th to 6th. The event emphasized the summit’s crucial role in driving positive change and fostering technological growth within the wedding industry.

During the conference, insightful discussions took center stage, with experts sharing their wisdom on enhancing wedding experiences through innovative technological approaches. The agenda was carefully curated to shed light on the transformative impact of technology on future celebrations, aligning closely with the Wed In India campaign championed by Hon’ble PM Narendra Modi.

Speaking about the Tech edition of WV Connect 2024 Season 3, Dakshinaa Murthi N, CEO of WV Connect, emphasized “This event is not just another summit; it’s a beacon of innovation, empowerment, and collaboration within the wedding fraternity. This year’s theme, “Get Royally Teched,” underscores our commitment to driving positive change and fostering technological growth in the wedding industry”

The conference provided attendees with valuable insights into groundbreaking technological advancements within the wedding industry. From AI-powered services to immersive virtual reality experiences, the press conference served as a platform to showcase how these innovations are revolutionizing the landscape of weddings.

At WV Connect 2024, we are witnessing a significant paradigm shift in the wedding industry, driven by technology and innovation. The event provides a distinctive platform to explore the transformative potential of tech in weddings and set a course towards a more vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable future. Over the course of three days, attendees will have the privilege to engage with renowned international and national speakers such as Hannah Connolley, Tommaso Borioli, Aditya Motwane, Siddhartha Chaturvedi, Sorav Jain, Arturo De Noriega, Vijay Arora, Gideon Hermosa, and many more. The event promises multi-faceted, tech-based engaging panel discussions, insightful keynote addresses, and networking opportunities designed to inspire, educate, and empower” says Rajeev Jain, Director of Raashi Entertainment.

Furthermore, plans for the third edition of WV Awards were unveiled during the event, promising to celebrate visionaries who have redefined weddings. This initiative acknowledges both creative brilliance and the tireless efforts that shape unforgettable experiences. The attendees were introduced to a unique CSR Initiative – A Celebration of the Wedding Workforce. This initiative aims to highlight the invaluable contributions of the wedding industry workforce and express gratitude for their tireless efforts.

While discussing, Rituraj Khanna, President of WV Connect, said, “The WV Connect 2024 season 3, marks a pivotal moment in advancing wedding technology and tourism in India. It’s not just about showcasing the stunning beauty of a city; it’s about propelling an entire nation into the forefront of future-focused wedding technology. By bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers, the summit sparks collaboration and growth, amplifying Jaipur’s prominence and reinforcing the objectives of the Wed In India campaign to position India as the ultimate wedding destination”.

Other notable figures from the wedding and event industry were presented at the press conference, including Vijay Arora, Director of Touchwood Group; Jaideep Anand, VP & GM of Leela Ambience; Abhimanyu Singh, President of GDEC; Anshul Bargawa, Ananta Resorts & Spa, Rajnish Rathi, CEO Wedding Affair Magazine & many other esteemed guests in presence

Osho Dham Celebrates Mulla Nasruddin Day with Comedy Icon Surender Sharma

This year, on April 1st, Osho Dham urges one and all to step away from the usual April Fools’ Day pranks and celebrate the wisdom and wit of Mulla Nasruddin, the iconic Sufi sage known for his humorous anecdotes. Osho Dham, dedicated to the teachings of Osho, who deeply admired Nasruddin, is hosting a special event to mark Mulla Nasruddin Day at Osho Dham, Najafgarh, New Delhi on Sunday, March 31st, 2024 at 9 pm onwards.

To celebrate this day and the love Osho has for Mulla Nasruddin, Osho Dham invites Surender Sharma, an Indian poet, writer, and humorist for a laughter show. A Padma Shri awardee, Surender Sharma is known for his ability to weave humor with insightful observations on life.

Adding further significance to the day, the event will also witness the launch of a picture book dedicated to Swami Om Prakash Saraswati. A dedicated disciple and devotee of Osho since 1971, Swamiji attained enlightenment in 2001 and left his physical form in 2003. He established Osho Dham with Osho’s blessings and remained a pillar of guidance for the ashram. The book launch serves as a tribute to Swamiji’s unwavering dedication to Osho’s teachings and his efforts in introducing them to countless seekers.

In his discourses, Osho frequently shared Nasruddin’s tales in both Hindi and English, expressing a deep admiration for the character. He once said, “I have loved no one as I have loved Nasruddin. He is one of the men who has brought religion and laughter together; otherwise, they have always stood back to back. Nasruddin forced them to drop their old enmity and become friends, and when religion and laughter meet, when meditation laughs, and when laughter meditates, the miracle happens… the miracle of all miracles.”

Swami Amit Saraswati from Osho Dham says, “You are cordially invited to a laughter event at Osho Dham featuring renowned comedian Surender Sharma. Laughter, as Osho has often emphasized, is not just about humor; it is a profound tool for enhancing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Laughter has the power to reduce stress, boost the immune system, and uplift the spirit. Join us for an evening of joy and healing as we explore the transformative power of laughter.”

Surender Sharma says, “Osho’s teachings have deeply inspired me, especially his insistence on laughter for a joyous life. He says that laughter is not just a physical act but a spiritual one, a way to connect with the divine within us. I have visited Osho World Galleria in the past too for various events. Their love for laughter and lightness is what keeps bringing me back to this place and people.

I am delighted to invite you to a special laughter show at Osho Dham. As a comedian, I have always believed in the power of laughter to heal, and at Osho Dham, we will explore this together.”

Swami Ravindra Bharti says, “You are invited to a special event at Osho Dham featuring the well-known comedian Surender Sharma. Osho has talked about the transformative power of laughter and used it as a meditation technique. He even created the Mystic Rose therapy, where participants laugh for three hours every day for a week, experiencing the deep cleansing and rejuvenating effects of laughter. So get ready to be tickled and roll in laughter at Osho Dham.”

Osho Dham extends the invite to enjoy the book and have a belly full of laughter with Surender Sharma and reap benefits to improve your immune function by increasing the production of antibodies and activating immune cells.

Powerhouse of EV Scooters in India – 5 Picks

Electric scooters have revolutionized urban mobility with their eco-friendly design and impressive performance. As the demand for sustainable transportation continues to soar, manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of innovation to deliver electric scooters that excel in range, speed, and technology.

Here are the 5 best powerhouses of EV scooters.

1. Lectrix LXS 2.0:

One of the best options available in the two-wheeler scooter segment, Lectrix EV’s LXS 2.0 comes with a range of 98 km, at 2.3 KW battery, and unparalleled quality. It is available at an unbelievable price which is the lowest in the category.

LXS 2.0 is the only EV in the 2W category that solves the three major problems for consumers. It combines the right range, the right quality, and the right value for money, making it an ideal offer for those wanting to enter the EV category for the first time. It is the perfect balance of ‘value’ and ‘affordability’ without compromising on innovation or quality. It is the only available 2WEV in India with a 98 km range at a 2.3 KW battery

2. The Bajaj Chetak:

The Bajaj Chetak is a compelling option with great features. Equipped with a disc front brake and a drum rear brake, the Chetak provides a range of 113 km/charge with the 2.9 kWh battery and 126 km/charge with the 3.2 kWh battery. The key specifications include a top speed of 73 mph, a seat height of 760 mm, and a ground clearance of 160 mm.  With a trusted name and a retro-inspired design, the Bajaj Chetak emetic scooter offers both style and function.

3. The Ather 450X:

The Ather 450X, priced stands out as a prominent contender in India’s electric scooter market. It offers consumers a choice between two battery options: a 2.9 kWh and a 3.7 kWh variant. In terms of performance, the scooter boasts a top speed of 90 mph. Safety features include both a disc front brake and a disc rear brake, ensuring efficient braking capabilities. One of its standout features is its impressive range per charge, offering 111 km with the 2.9 kWh battery and extending up to 150 km with the 3.7 kWh battery.

4. The TVS iQube Electric:

 It has a 3.04 kWh battery and is available in two variants. The key specifications include a top speed of 78 kmph. The scooter is equipped with a disc front brake and a drum rear brake. In terms of design, it is elegant and sturdy.

5. Ola S1 Pro:

The Ola S1 Pro: Gen 1 is equipped with a 4kWh battery pack, requiring approximately 6.5 hours for a full charge. Transitioning to the S1 Pro Gen 2, Ola has incorporated a motor mounted on the frame, ramping up the peak power to 11 kW. The scooter has a claimed top speed of 120 mph and acceleration from zero to 40 kmph in just 2.6 seconds.

As technology continues to advance and infrastructure improves, electric scooters will play an increasingly vital role in shaping the urban landscape, providing commuters with a cleaner, greener, and more efficient way to travel. So whether you’re a city dweller looking to navigate through traffic or an eco-conscious consumer seeking an alternative to traditional transportation, these electric scooters are sure to exceed your expectations and pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow.

Minosha India Propels Gawade Enterprises to New Heights with Ricoh Production Printers

Minosha India Limited, the leading distributor of Ricoh products in India, is delighted to highlight the success story of Gawade Enterprises, operating under the name Sachin Digital, a printing business located in Pimpri Chinchwad, Pune. Over the past seven years, Gawade Enterprises has experienced substantial growth and enhanced operational efficiency through the strategic utilization of the Ricoh Production Printer, supplied and supported by Minosha India Limited.

Established 20 years ago by Mr. Somnath Gawade, Gawade Enterprises has been a trusted name in the production printing industry, catering to a diverse clientele in Pimpri Chinchwad and other areas in Pune. Seven years ago, recognizing the need for advanced printing solutions, Gawade Enterprises integrated Ricoh Production Printer into their workflow.

Gawade Enterprises specializes in a wide range of printing services, including photocopying, printing of visiting cards, brochures, pamphlets, and invitation cards. Its major market consists of walk-in customers seeking top-notch printing solutions. The business has a dedicated team of over 20 skilled professionals, equipped with the newly installed Ricoh Pro C7200x in special colors Gold and White, in addition to the existing Ricoh Production Printer.

Minosha India Limited provided comprehensive training to Gawade Enterprises’ staff members on how to operate Ricoh Production Printer effectively and on special color applications. Minosha continues to offer unparalleled support, both technical and otherwise, ensuring seamless operation and maximum uptime for Gawade Enterprises.

The superior quality and speed offered by Ricoh Production Printer have empowered Gawade Enterprises to stay ahead of competitors in the highly competitive printing industry. With the competitive cost per copy being similar to competitors, Gawade Enterprises has witnessed a significant enhancement in print quality, leading to increased customer satisfaction. In fact, customers now specifically request printing jobs to be done using Ricoh machines.

Since the installation of Ricoh machines, Gawade Enterprises has experienced a remarkable increase in customer base, resulting in high growth in their print volumes. The business is quite positive about future prospects, buoyed by the exceptional support provided by Minosha.

Minosha India Limited reaffirms its commitment to empowering businesses like Gawade Enterprises with innovative printing solutions, and the success of Gawade Enterprises serves as a testament to the transformative impact of Ricoh products in the Indian printing landscape.