10, May 2025
Mother’s Day quote by Mrs. Seema Vakharia, COO – Xpedeon

By- Mrs. Seema Vakharia, COO – Xpedeon
“As a mother of two girls, and in my role as COO and founder, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the quiet, persistent strength it takes to balance a career, a home, and the emotional needs of everyone in between. I know firsthand the invisible load that so many women carry—and this Mother’s Day, I honour every woman who rises to meet those challenges, day after day. To all the mothers navigating work, caregiving, and everything in between—you are superwomen in your own way. Today, let’s not just celebrate you, but truly see you.”
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- By Neel Achary
10, May 2025
L’Oréal Paris Marks 28 Years at Festival de Cannes with Alia Bhatt’s Debut
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
L’Oréal Paris, the No. 1 Beauty Brand in the World, proudly returns as the official beauty partner of the Festival de Cannes, taking place from 13th to 24th May 2025. This year marks the brand’s 28th consecutive year at the prestigious film festival, celebrating the theme “Lights, Beauty and Action”— a powerful philosophy rooted in confidence, self-worth, and the belief that everyone is inherently deserving.
This milestone year also heralds the debut of acclaimed Indian actor Alia Bhatt at the festival in her role as a Global Ambassador for L’Oréal Paris. She will join longstanding brand ambassador and global icon Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, reaffirming the growing influence of Indian cinema at the global stage. Their participation underscores the ongoing commitment of L’Oréal Paris to represent diverse voices and redefining beauty through inclusivity and empowerment.

Sharing her thoughts ahead of her Cannes debut, Indian Actor, Producer and Entrepreneur Alia Bhatt said, “There’s something absolutely special about firsts — and I’m so excited to make my Festival de Cannes debut this year, an iconic celebration of cinema and self-expression. It is such an honour to represent L’Oréal Paris at the Festival with this year’s theme, ‘Lights, Beauty and Action’.
To me, beauty is about celebrating individuality, confidence and self worth. It’s limitless, it’s unique. I’m proud to stand with a brand that celebrates every woman’s journey and empowers them to shine in their own light.”
Dario Zizzi, General Manager, L’Oréal Paris – India, elaborated on the significance of the event, “The Festival de Cannes has always been a powerful platform for storytelling, creativity, and cultural dialogue—values that deeply resonate with L’Oréal Paris. As we mark 28 years as the Official Makeup Partner, we are especially proud to welcome Alia Bhatt to the global stage alongside Aishwarya Rai Bachchan whose presence we’ve cherished for over two decades. Alia’s debut not only reflects the rising influence of Indian cinema but also our brand’s enduring commitment to celebrating diverse beauty and empowering women across the world.”
As part of a strategic collaboration, L’Oréal Paris has partnered with the Indian beauty e-commerce platform Nykaa as its “Beauty Partner” in India this year. Through this partnership, Nykaa is bringing the glamour of Cannes to the Indian consumers by offering exclusive access to iconic Cannes red carpet looks. The viral L’Oréal Paris Plump Ambition Lip Oil exclusively available on Nykaa from 1st May, during the entire Cannes film festival.
Anchit Nayar, Executive Director and CEO, Nykaa Beauty, said, “For nearly 30 years, L’Oréal Paris at Cannes has celebrated beauty on a global stage. As their Official Beauty Partner in India, Nykaa is proud to bring this collaboration closer to its 40+ million consumers and 200+ stores—honouring Indian beauty’s global rise and championing every individual who believes they are worth it.”
In addition to its strong Indian representation, L’Oréal Paris will be joined on the red carpet by a distinguished roster of global ambassadors including Eva Longoria, Viola Davis, Jane Fonda, Aja Naomi King, Andie MacDowell, Simone Ashley, Elle Fanning, Bebe Vio, and Yseult, all of whom embody the brand’s commitment to celebrating, authentic beauty.
Reinforcing its dedication to advancing women in film, L’Oréal Paris will once again present the Lights On Women’s Worth Award, an initiative designed to spotlight and support promising female filmmakers. This award continues to serve as a platform to amplify women’s voices and accelerate their professional journeys within the cinematic industry.
Throughout the festival, the brand will unveil the latest season of beauty at Cannes, led by Harold James, L’Oréal Paris’ newly appointed Global Makeup Creative Director. Alongside a team of 30 internationally renowned beauty artists, James will introduce cutting-edge trends and innovations that define the future of beauty on this global stage.
10, May 2025
Zeeba Basmati Celebrates Mother’s Day by Honouring Beautiful Relationships and Reliving the Magic of Summer Holidays
Mumbai , May 10, 2025:This Mother’s Day, Zeeba Basmati Rice, a premium basmati brand from the house of Supple Tek, takes a heartfelt detour from conventional storytelling to celebrate not just mothers—but every motherly bond that shaped our childhoods. In a nostalgia-soaked film conceptualised and executed by Maximus Collabs, Zeeba pays tribute to the beauty of intergenerational relationships—be it with mothers, grandmothers or the shared love that flowed through summer holidays at ancestral homes.
Set against the nostalgic backdrop of Indian summer vacations, the film celebrates the warmth of togetherness through cherished food memories. With Zeeba Basmati Rice as the soulful enabler, it brings alive the emotions, traditions and connections built around every lovingly cooked meal.The film, built on the insight that food is not just about feeding the stomach but about feeding the soul, highlights the importance of cooking in Indian homes as a form of emotional expression—an invisible thread that connects generations. And at the centre of it all is rice—India’s most loved and versatile grain.
From the comfort of dal chawal, the tang of lemon rice, to the sweet, indulgent notes of kheer, rice has been the foundation of countless meals and memories. Zeeba Basmati, with its signature aroma, long grains and unmatched purity, transforms these everyday dishes into extraordinary moments. It uplifts the entire culinary experience, enhancing taste while preserving tradition.
“We wanted to remind people that rice is not just a staple—it’s a storyteller,” said the Company Spokesperson. “Across India, every home has a memory associated with rice. Whether it’s a plate of hot khichdi served when you were unwell, your mother’s Sunday biryani, or grandmother’s kheer for every special occasion —rice is deeply personal and emotional. Zeeba wants to celebrate the beautiful India with its beautiful people and their beautiful preparations,” the spokesperson said.
Zeeba’s film celebrates the femininity of food in Indian homes—the quiet strength, patience and love that go into each dish. The film encourages audiences to not just celebrate their mothers, but the maternal love of daadis, naanis, maasis and more—women who turned simple meals into celebrations and food into memories.
“This campaign goes beyond just Mother’s Day. It’s a celebration of home, of heritage, and of the little details that make our childhoods so vivid,” said Manisha Singh , Director- Maximus Collabs. “With Zeeba, we’re not just serving rice—we’re serving memories, honouring the women who nurtured us, and celebrating everything that makes our lives truly beautiful. ”
As families prepare to celebrate Mother’s Day and plan for summer vacations , Zeeba invites everyone to revisit the magic of meals shared and memories created, with a warm plate of rice at the centre—because sometimes, love looks like a bowl of dal -chawal to some and to some its a humble bowl of kheer .
10, May 2025
Joy Business Center – A Dynamic New Commercial Hub at Celebration Bazaar, Khanna
Khanna, Punjab, India
AIPL proudly unveiled Joy Business Center at Celebration Bazaar, a dynamic new commercial hub comprising affordable office spaces. The project is aimed at empowering local entrepreneurs and accelerating business growth. AIPL team introduced a thoughtfully designed range of offices/shops, sized between 277 sq. ft. and 355 sq. ft., offered at attractive, affordable rates.
Joy Business Center is already drawing keen interest from immigration consultants, advocates, DSAs, and steel trading firms, positioning it as a rising hotspot for business in the region. With this new launch, AIPL continues its mission to build quality commercial infrastructure and nurture the entrepreneurial spirit of Khanna.

During this launch Mr. Dalbir Bedi, Business Head, AIPL shared that AIPL has over 1 million sq. ft. of commercial projects in Punjab with 800+ acres of residential and presence in 8cities in North India and has a rich legacy of 34 years with 60 + projects delivered. In Khanna, company has already delivered 2 projects successfully – Dream City Khanna and Celebration Bazaar Khanna.
Celebration Bazaar Khanna is the ideal social hub for families and group of friends to celebrate as the project has initiated ‘live singing’ for the visitors every Saturday and Sunday. The project would soon unveil a gaming/entertainment zone. The project is strategically located between two major industrial hubs of Punjab- Khanna, Asia’s largest grain distribution centre and Mandi-Gobindgarh, a major steel industrial hub. It is situated right on NH – 44 connecting Delhi & Amritsar and is part of 88 Acres AIPL DreamCity, Khanna, a world-class township by AIPL group.
10, May 2025
Shrimp-a-thon 2025 Puts Protein on the Map: Right to Protein and Skretting India Champion Shrimp as a Superfood in Bhimavaram

Bhimavaram, Andhra Pradesh, India
In a bid to promote the importance of protein-rich diets and sustainable aquaculture, Right to Protein (RTP) partnered with Skretting India as a knowledge partner for the first-ever ‘Shrimp-a-thon’ – #ShrimpForHealth, an awareness run focused on increasing domestic shrimp consumption and public understanding of shrimp as a high-quality protein. The event took place on 4th May 2025 at Vishnu College, Bhimavaram.
Organized by Skretting India, a Nutreco company and a leader in aquafeed solutions, ’Shrimp-a-thon’ brought together a diverse group of farmers, aquaculture experts, healthcare professionals, policy makers, chefs, and educators to raise awareness of shrimp’s nutritional benefits and its role in India’s protein story.
As a key engagement, Right to Protein (RTP) had set up an experiential Protein-O-Meter booth, where attendees assessed their protein intake and learned how shrimp fits into a balanced diet. The booth featured educational pamphlets and co-branded merchandise, all reinforcing the importance of daily protein consumption and food diversity.
“Shrimp-a-thon is a unique platform to drive home a critical message—shrimp is not only a vital part of India’s aquaculture economy, but also a rich and underutilized source of protein,” said Chandrasekar S – Head Aquaculture Utilization South Asia, USSEC. “We’re proud to support this initiative to inspire more Indians to understand their daily protein needs and make smarter, nutrition-first food choices.”
Speaking on the importance of shrimp in India’s economy, Saurabh Shekhar – General Manager – Nutreco said, “While India is one of the largest shrimp producers globally, we export 90% of our production. Given India’s protein deficiency and shrimp’s richness in protein, Omega-6, and Omega-3 fatty acids, this presents a great opportunity. Shrimp is not only vital to India’s aquaculture economy but can be a great source of protein for the nation. We’re thrilled to have Right to Protein join us on this journey of creating awareness and leading the cause of protein sufficiency.”
On the opportunities and growth of domestic shrimp consumption, Ravi Kumar Yellanki, President, All India Shrimp Hatcheries Association, said, “India has a vast population of 1.4 billion and a growing middle class, hence there’s immense potential for domestic consumption. Shrimp is an excellent protein source, rich in nutrients, and as health consciousness rises in India, we need to educate consumers about its benefits. By increasing awareness and availability, we can tap into this potential. Just like China, where shrimp consumption grew 25 times in 15 years, India can achieve similar growth by promoting domestic consumption.”
“Shrimp is a nutritional powerhouse—rich in 22% protein, essential micronutrients, and vital vitamins,” said Dr. Manoj Sharma, promoter of the Zhingalala brand. “As a strong advocate for domestic shrimp consumption since 2015, I believe it offers immense health benefits, especially in a country like India where protein deficiency is widespread. With our vast population, it’s crucial to embrace locally produced, high-quality protein sources. I fully support the Right to Protein campaign and firmly believe that non-vegetarians should make the most of this versatile and homegrown superfood.”
Over 500+ runners participated in the marathon which had a lively, educational atmosphere featuring a live Shrimp counter by Zhingalala, T-shirts, medals, certificates, and a lot more for attendees. The event also hosted KOLs and dignitaries, including Ravi Yellanki – President, All India Shrimp Hatcheries Association, Ramraj Dhamodar – Director, Padmanabha Labs/HiBreeds Aquatics, Dr. Manoj Sharma – Promoter of Zhingalala, Pravash Pradhan and more.
The ‘Shrimp-a-thon’ marks a meaningful step in the broader Right to Protein (RTP) campaign, spotlighting the intersection of nutrition education, sustainable aquaculture and community engagement.
10, May 2025
Pepperfry’s Mother’s Day Film Nails the Chaos and Charm of ‘Trying to Get It Right’
Mumbai, May 10th, 2025: Pepperfry, India’s leading e-commerce furniture and home decor company, has rolled out its latest campaign ‘Trying to Get It Right’ on the occasion of Mother’s Day. This Mother’s Day, Pepperfry celebrates the chaos behind every well-meaning plan to make Mom feel special.
The campaign spotlights a familiar scene in Indian households: kids and Dad trying (and sort of succeeding) to make Mother’s Day perfect. With a blend of humour and heart, the film follows a young boy as he confidently lays out “the plan” for the day—breakfast in bed (served with care on a stylish Pepperfry breakfast table), a strict no-mess afternoon, and a veggie-loaded dinner with zero drama. Between his little sister’s excitement and Dad’s forgetful tendencies, it’s a warm portrayal of the lovable imperfection in every family’s effort.
The ad subtly weaves in Pepperfry’s products—from elegant crockery to plush silk pillow covers—highlighting how thoughtful home pieces can elevate small moments into meaningful gestures. More than a gifting campaign, Pepperfry’s Mother’s Day story captures the relatable chaos, funny hiccups, and genuine love that make such days truly memorable. It’s not about getting it perfect—it’s about showing you care, beautifully.
10, May 2025
This Mother’s Day, Swiggy Serves a Story About Love That Lives Beyond Loss
National; May 10th, 2025: Sometimes, love finds its way back into our lives – not with grand gestures, but with flour, sugar, and two people quietly baking a cake in memory of the loved ones that have lost. Swiggy Limited , India’s pioneering on-demand convenience platform, presents a deeply moving digital film this Mother’s Day that steps away from the conventional and dives into the tender spaces of shared grief, memory, and healing. Swiggy has collaborated with Maroof Culman, a storyteller and heritage documentarian, for direction and production of this film.
At the center of the film, ideated by the in-house team, are two individuals who’ve not met before they experienced irreparable loss; a mother who lost her son, and a son who lost his mother. Both of them come together on Mother’s Day every year and bake the same cake they once made with their loved ones who are no longer in this world. No dramatic monologues. Just quiet conversations, hands working in rhythm while baking the cake, small smiles, shared silences, and the universal comfort of food.
Shot in a minimal, documentary style with focus on interview-led storytelling and observational cinematography. The film captures the textures of grief as much as it celebrates the joy of remembrance. It reiterates how food, especially baking, connects them to those they have lost. The film ends with both the people eating the cake together, sharing a laugh and silently honoring those they miss in life.
Mayur Hola, VP and Head of Brand, Swiggy, said “Mother’s Day is often framed through picture-perfect stories. But many live through the day with empty chairs, quiet kitchens, or memories. Through this film, we wanted to honor them and show that healing doesn’t always come in a straight line. Sometimes, it arrives in the form of gestures shared with someone who simply understands. This film is part of Swiggy’s continued endeavor to tell emotion-first, food-rooted stories that reflect the many relationships and rituals built around the kitchen table. It invites audiences to go beyond traditional greetings and instead, connect meaningfully, with those we’ve lost, and the new connections we have built to carry on our lives with.”
This story celebrates how love, food, and shared loss can create new relationships and heal old wounds. The characters in the film don’t share a blood relation, but they share something deeper, a quiet, mutual understanding of grief and memory. Whether it’s a phone call, a recipe made from memory, or a handwritten note, this Mother’s Day, this film is a reminder that sometimes, the smallest acts can carry the greatest love.
10, May 2025
Transforming real estate: GMDA’s arterial road set to propel Gurugram’s real estate growth
Gurugram: The Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) is poised to transform a key 2km arterial road connecting Naurangpur with Rampura Chowk on NH8. The 5.5 meter stretch which serves as a connecting points for residents in sectors 76, 78, 79, and 80, will improve commuting once this revamp is completed. The road has been a crucial connection for locals and commercial vehicles travelling to Tauru, Nuh, and different parts of Rajasthan. Its current condition has made regular commuting a challenge. The slated upgradation will feature an 84 meter right of way, which will involve a central verge and a six lane main carriageway.
This expansion will lead to easing traffic congestion in various sectors and micro – markets of Gurugram. Infrastructure development has always been a crucial factor for real estate growth. Similarly, this expansion will lead to infrastructure development in various parts of the city, leading to a growth in homebuyer’s base and demand for residential units.
The newly constructed arterial road will create a faster link between NH 8 and Southern Peripheral Road (SPR), which also interfaces with Golf Course Extension Road. SPR has witnessed remarkable prosperity over the last few years. The corridor’s surrounding areas have rapidly developed with real estate projects and urban dwelling. Similarly, Golf Course Extension Road (GCER) has attracted HNIs, NRIs, and senior working professionals. These two regions feature premium and ultra – luxury residential units which feature amenities like green spaces, modern designs, and high – tech features like weather control. The infrastructure development will make SPR and GCER magnets for homebuyers and investors seeking an affluent lifestyle.
Other sectors in Gurugram like 76, 78, 79, and 80 will also benefit from this development. Surrounded by the greenery of the Aravalli range, Sector 80 is a recently flourishing real estate market. Over the past few years, the sector has witnessed new launches of residential projects by reputed developers. Residents will benefit from an upcoming nearby interstate bus terminus at Sector 36A, which connects the RRTS corridor with a station at Kherki Daula. Sector 80 is also close to various social amenities, including healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and shopping complexes.
Mohit Agarwal, Business Head, Conscient Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd. said, “The upgradation of the Naurangpur–Rampura Chowk arterial road is a game-changer for Gurugram’s real estate landscape. With its expansion into a six-lane thoroughfare and an 84-metre right of way, GMDA is enhancing connectivity across key sectors like 76, 78, 79, and 80—further strengthening links to major corridors such as SPR and GCER. Sector 80 is fast emerging as a prime real estate hub, offering modern homebuyers a compelling mix of spacious residences, green living, and lifestyle-driven amenities. This infrastructure boost will reinforce long-term value for our customers in developments like PARQ and Elaira Residences, while paving the way for future residential, commercial, and mixed-use growth in the region.”
These factors enhance the sector’s liveability, ensuring vibrant entertainment experience and connectivity. With an expected infrastructure development, premium amenities, and a burgeoning residential market, sector 80 is going to be the next hub for modern urban living in Gurugram. The GMDA’s decision to transform the arterial road is highly beneficial for the city’s real estate landscape. It will contribute to the city’s already thriving real estate market.
A resident said, “The upgradation of the Narangpur – Rampura Chowk arterial road is a game – changer for Gurugram’s real estate landscape. By transforming a congested, narrow stretch into a six – lane thoroughfare with an 84 – metre right of way, GMDA is not only improving connectivity for different sectors, but also strengthening links to SPR and GCER. Sector 80 in Gurugram being an emerging realty hub is set to attract modern homebuyers, given to this development. The sector is a desirable place for homebuyers looking for luxury housing units. These properties suit different needs for residents, by offering recreational amenities, spacious living area, sustainable features, and vast green spaces.”
10, May 2025
Radisson Blu Guwahati presents Nawabi Feast and Mother’s Day delights
Guwahati; May 10, 2025: Radisson Blu Guwahati is all set to bring an exquisite culinary experience for its guests with the launch of the Nawabi Feast and special Mother’s Day celebrations. The hotel invites guests to indulge in royal flavours, heartwarming festivities, and unforgettable dining moments at Café B You and The Great Kabab Factory.

The Nawabi Feast at Café B You will take place every Friday throughout May, offering guests an opportunity to savour Lucknow’s rich, aromatic cuisine. With a specially curated Nawabi buffet featuring live counters, the event promises an authentic culinary journey. “The Nawabi Feast is our tribute to the royal kitchens of Lucknow, and we are excited to bring this regal experience to our guests,” said Ankur Mehrotra, General Manager of Radisson Blu Guwahati.
In addition to the Nawabi Feast, Radisson Blu Guwahati will host special Mother’s Day celebrations on May 11, 2025. Café B You will offer a heartwarming Mother’s Day Brunch from 12:30 PM onwards, featuring a specially crafted menu, live counters, live singing. The hotel will also provide an option for guests to cook for their mothers at the exclusive live counters. Additionally, on a table of four and above, mothers will enjoy their meal complimentary. The hotel will also present all mothers with a special gift hamper as a token of appreciation.
The Great Kabab Factory (TGKF) will offer a Mother’s Day Dinner from 7:00 PM onwards, showcasing a special Table d’Hôte (TDH) menu designed to celebrate mothers.
“We believe that every mother deserves to be celebrated, and our Mother’s Day offerings are crafted to provide a memorable experience for families,” added Ankur Mehrotra. “Whether it is the Nawabi Feast or the special brunch and dinner for mothers, our focus is on creating unforgettable culinary experiences.”
10, May 2025
“Powering Viksit Bharat: Building Sustainable Digital Infrastructure, Responsible IT, and Creative-Tech Talent for India’s Green AI Future”
This National Technology Day, we spotlight a transformative shift in India’s technology landscape—one led by sustainable innovation, AI infrastructure, deep-tech talent development, and the rise of the creative economy.
Here’s what industry leaders are saying this National Technology Day:
Sustainable Digital Infrastructure for Green AI
“On this National Technology Day, we honour the spirit of innovation that drives India toward a Viksit and Atmanirbhar Bharat. At RackBank, we believe that the backbone of this transformation lies in future-ready, sustainable digital infrastructure. Our AI-first, carbon-neutral datacenter initiatives are a testament to that belief—where high-density compute meets climate responsibility. By leveraging renewable energy, liquid cooling, and carbon removal strategies, we’re not just building datacenters—we’re enabling India’s green AI revolution. With strong policy support and India’s rising deep tech talent, RackBank is proud to power the India AI Mission, unlocking the potential of AI across critical sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and education. We are committed to building an intelligent, self-reliant, and sustainable digital India.”- Narendra Sen, Founder & CEO, RackBank
Responsible IT Services & AI-Cyber Talent for a Future-Ready Bharat
“On National Technology Day, we reflect on India’s journey of innovation and reaffirm our commitment to a sustainable, technology-driven future. At Orient Technologies, we empower businesses with agile, efficient IT lifecycle services that optimize assets from acquisition to disposal, ensuring long-term performance, cost-effectiveness, and environmental responsibility. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We invest in developing tech talent in AI and cybersecurity, preparing them to lead in building a more sustainable digital world. We are aligned with IndiaAI Mission and contributing to mission-critical infrastructure alongside MeitY. We proudly support India’s vision of a resilient, future-ready Bharat that leads in global tech.” – Ajay Sawant, Chairman and Managing Director, Orient Technologies Limited
Creative-Tech Skilling for the AVGC-XR Revolution
“On this National Technology Day, we honour the pulse of innovation powering India’s digital leap, especially in the fast-evolving AVGC-XR sector. At Aptech Ltd., we don’t just train students; we shape tomorrow’s creative technologists with cutting-edge skills in animation, VFX, virtual production, gaming, and digital content creation. Fuelled by landmark initiatives like the India AI Mission and future-focused skilling frameworks, the AVGC-XR industry in India is projected to grow further. The recent WAVES 2025 forum conducted in Mumbai, presided over by our Honourable Prime Minister is a testament to the commitment and potential of this industry. By spotlighting the 3 pillars of today’s Orange Economy through Content, Creativity, and Culture, the government and public are rallying behind this industry to make India’s Viksit Bharat vision a holistic success. With a powerful mix of policy push, infrastructure strength, and talent transformation, we’re building a creative economy that’s not only self-reliant but globally influential. Our journey has just started, and India is set to carve itself as the global hub for film production, digital content, gaming, fashion, music and live concerts.” – Mr. Abir Aich, Executive Vice President, Head Academics & New Technology, Aptech Limited