Category: business

Prime Video Announces Global Premiere of “I Want To Talk”

January 18, 2024— Prime Video, India’s most-loved entertainment destination, today announced the exclusive global streaming premiere of National Award-winning filmmaker Shoojit Sircar’s latest cinematic offering, I Want To Talk. Produced by Ronnie Lahiri and Sheel Kumar under the banner of Rising Sun Films, this heartfelt drama stars Abhishek Bachchan in the lead, along with Ahilya Bamroo, Jayant Kriplani, Johnny Lever, Pearle Dey, and Kristin Goddard in pivotal roles. The film is now streaming exclusively on Prime Video in 240 countries and territories worldwide.

A deeply emotional and thought-provoking drama about resilience, I Want to Talk follows the transformative journey of Arjun Sen, a chatty and shrewd Bengali man living the quintessential “American Dream.” Arjun’s life is upended when he learns he has only 100 days to live. Faced with his mortality, he is forced to reevaluate his priorities and reassess what truly matters in his life. His journey becomes a sincere quest to reconnect with his estranged seven-year-old daughter and to make every remaining moment count, making for an intrinsically true-to-life father-daughter story.

“I Want To Talk is a poignant reminder of the indomitable power of human connection and resilience. I’ve always been fascinated by the complexities of human relationships and how these can help one heal and transform. Through this film, I wanted to tell a story that would not only touch hearts but also spark meaningful conversations and inspire audiences to cherish every moment with their loved ones. This film would not have been possible without the incredibly talented cast and crew, who poured their hearts and souls into bringing this story to life. I’m delighted that audiences worldwide can now stream our labor of love, on Prime Video,” said director Shoojit Sircar.

Shri Murlidhar Mohol Inaugurates CREDAI-Pune Metro Property Expo 2025

18th January 2025: The CREDAI-Pune Metro’s 23rd edition of the annual property exhibition, the Pune Property Expo 2025, was inaugurated today by Shri Murlidhar Mohol, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation. The exhibition, held at the Agriculture College Ground, Pune, will run until 19th January 2025. The exhibition aims to provide a platform for homebuyers and investors to explore a wide range of real estate options, including affordable to luxury housing, NA plots to premium villas, commercial properties to pre-leased assets. The event will bring together over 55 trusted developers, showcasing more than 400 RERA-registered projects from Pune, PCMC and PMRDA regions.

During the launch, Honorable Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation of India Shri Murlidhar Ji Mohol, said “I am delighted to be a part of the CREDAI-Pune Metro Property Expo 2025. This platform is crucial for discussing the steps being taken towards Pune’s development. I greatly value the suggestions shared by the President of CREDAI and firmly believe that organizations like CREDAI-Pune Metro contribute significantly to the development and betterment of Pune as a city. Pune currently has a thriving population of 70 lakh, which is expected to grow in the coming years. As proud Punekars, we must work together and actively contribute to the city’s development. By collaborating and supporting positive initiatives, we can address challenges like traffic congestion and infrastructure improvement, ensuring a brighter future for Pune. Our current priorities include constructing new roads and infrastructure, reducing traffic congestion, and advancing airport development. With one lakh new houses being built annually, increasing urbanisation is putting significant pressure on the city’s infrastructure. To address the water supply challenges, we are working on installing 1,800 km of new water pipelines and water meters.”

Mr. Ranjit Naiknavare, President, CREDAI- Pune Metro, said “CREDAI Pune Metro is proud to work hand in hand with the Government and the policymakers. We had a productive conversation with Union Minister Mohol where we discussed various issues for the betterment of the city and infrastructure for the citizens at large related to environment, fast track Metro Expansion, reforms in cooperative housing sector laws and construction of an international convention centre in Pune.”

Also present on the occasion were Vice Presidents Manish Jain, Arvind Jain and managing committee members Kapil Gandhi, Punit Oswal and Anup Jhamtani.

Visitors can look forward to several highlights, including special offers, spot loan assistance from leading financial institutions and entertainment activities. On 19th January, the expo will host customer-focused seminars featuring notable experts. Key sessions include:

· The Essentials of Redevelopment for Homeowners, a panel discussion featuring prominent speakers such as Mr. Gautam Chaterjee (Ex-Chairman, Maha RERA), Mr. Suhas Patwardhan (Chairman, Maharashtra Co-Operative Housing Federation) and Mr. Vikram Karandikar (M.D. Chaphalkar Karandikar), moderated by Mr. Sanjay Deshpande (CMD, Sanjeevani Developers).

· The Hidden Checklist Every Homebuyer Needs by Mr. Rahul Ajmera, Partner, Vasupujya Corporation.

· Role of Homebuyers in Eco-Friendly Practices by Mr. Sandeep Sonigra, M.D., Orange County Group.

Lodha Genius Programme Invites Applications for Fully-Funded Education

18th January, 2024: Lodha Genius Programme, the flagship education initiative of the recently endowed Lodha Foundation, in partnership with Ashoka University, calls for applications from the brightest minds from Grades 9 – 12 to join its fully funded multi-year educational programme. The application window is open from December 01, 2024 to January 15, 2025. This announcement comes close on the heels of the recent endowment to the Lodha Foundation by Abhishek Lodha and his family.

The Lodha Genius Programme is a multi-year initiative that includes an annual four-week campus experience at Ashoka University, paired with year-round continued learning. It is designed to complement all major examination boards, helping students deepen their studies and explore various career paths in their chosen fields. The programme offers a unique combination of immersive science and mathematics courses, practical life skills, continuous mentorship, and exclusive internship opportunities. The programme identifies and supports students from middle school through to their first job, collaborating with distinguished academics, including Nobel Laureates. It also provides scholarship opportunities for select students to study in the US or attend prestigious international STEM events.

Commenting on the Programme, Mahika Shishodia, Head of Education, Lodha Foundation, said, “The Lodha Genius Programme is the flagship education initiative of the newly endowed Lodha Foundation. The focus of the Programme is to enhance the quality of education, especially for gifted children, irrespective of income background, from all over India. The children are assessed through an entrance exam that focuses on scientific reasoning, mathematics, and logic, rather than a specific curriculum. We then select students based on their problem-solving abilities and conduct interviews to identify the brightest minds—whom we define as ‘geniuses’. In its third year, the programme will offer these geniuses access to people, opportunities and ideas that will help propel them forward. The Lodha Genius Programme aims to shape tomorrow’s changemakers, leaders and philanthropists; children who will lead India towards a sustainable future and give back to the nation and society.

“The Lodha Genius Programme represents a groundbreaking initiative that combines the best of rigorous academic learning, mentorship, and real-world exposure. We are proud to collaborate with the Lodha Foundation in nurturing exceptional young talent and to take this initiative further this year, making meaningful contributions to the education industry and society. Since last year, we have witnessed extensive participation from India’s exceptional students. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to shaping India’s future through education,” Somak Raychaudhury, Vice Chancellor, Ashoka University said.

Prof. K. VijayRaghvan, Chair, Science Advisory Council, Ashoka University commented “The Lodha Genius Programme is a comprehensive and innovative educational initiative that goes far beyond a typical summer program. In addition to an engaging summer experience at Ashoka, it offers year-round immersive learning, mentorship, and development opportunities. The collaboration between Ashoka University and the Lodha Foundation is a testament to our shared commitment to empowering India’s future leaders and changemakers through education.”

Anand & Gukesh Dommaraju Bring FWD Edge to GenZ Chess

18 January 2025: FWD by Myntra, one of India’s leading GenZ fashion and lifestyle destinations, has unveiled a witty and entertaining campaign featuring chess grandmasters Vishwanathan Anand and Gukesh Dommaraju, showcasing the latest GenZ collection on Myntra’s FWD platform. Designed to resonate with the bold and trendy preferences of GenZ shoppers, this campaign blends humor, style, and pop culture in an innovative ad film.

The core message of the campaign unfolds as Anand, in his quest to connect with GenZ, seeks Gukesh’s help in mastering their lingo. From hilariously mispronouncing “skibidi” as “kabaddi” to performing an offbeat Michael Jackson move, Anand’s attempts at pop culture highlight the generational gap. Gukesh humorously suggests that while mastering GenZ lingo may be a tall order, donning GenZ outfits from FWD by Myntra can be the perfect way to bridge the gap.

Set against a vibrant and stylish backdrop, the campaign video brings together two generations of chess excellence. It kicks off with Gukesh, sporting a cutting-edge FWD outfit complete with trendy glasses, a sleek jacket, and bold accessories, as Vishwanathan Anand playfully inquires how it feels to be the world chess champion. The duo’s lighthearted banter begins, with Gukesh humorously flaunting his trophy and Anand one-upping him with a subtle flex of his own: “Touch? I have five of them. Do you want to touch four more?” Gukesh’s amused response—“Nice flex, sir”—ties in seamlessly with the GenZ obsession with ‘flexing’ in style.

When Gukesh suggests everyone ink their iconic moments, Anand humorously notes he’d run out of space with his achievements. The campaign wraps up with Anand asking if it’s ‘Forward’ or ‘FWD,’ and Gukesh cheekily replied, “Depends on who’s talking—Vishy or Vishwanathan Anand.” Anand’s closing line, “Vishy, sir,” seals the moment with charm. The video ends with Anand confidently embracing his new FWD look, sporting trendy GenZ-inspired attire and joining Gukesh in getting a tattoo.

Creative credits –

Agency: Braindad

Writer & Director: Vishal Dayama

Producer: Devarsh Thaker

On the launch of the ad film, Sunder Balasubramanian, CMO, of Myntra, said, “With this campaign we intended to tap into the incredible surge of interest in chess, especially among Gen Z, fueled by popular streamers, comedians, and the impressive achievements of young players like Gukesh – one of the youngest to achieve grandmaster status. We also know that Viswanathan Anand’s influence resonates strongly with younger audiences. This campaign brings these two iconic chessmasters generations together to highlight how FWD by Myntra helps you look your freshest and best. FWD is all about keeping Gen Z ahead of the curve in fashion, and what better way to showcase that than by partnering with icons who embody both timeless appeal.”

FWD by Myntra has rapidly become a dominant force in the GenZ fashion market, surpassing a major milestone by more than doubling its customer base to 16 million in just over a year. The platform offers a wide range of over 1 lakh styles, featuring 75,000+ trend-first designs with 2,500 new drops weekly, ensuring young shoppers always have access to fresh, on-trend items. From oversized tees and cargo pants to co-ord sets, bold accessories, and partywear, FWD caters to every mood and occasion, offering trendy, affordable options that empower budget-conscious Gen Z consumers to experiment fearlessly with fashion and make bold, unforgettable style statements.

Apollo Hospitals Introduces Health Check Package in Hyderabad

18th January 2025: To a healthier Hyderabad: Dr. Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals, launches the exclusive Healthy Hyderabad Health Check initiative as part of Apollo’s continuous effort to combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by encouraging people to avail preventive health checks early on. The digital launch took place on January 15 at Apollo Health City, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad in the presence of Shri Satish Kumar Jaju (Business Cell Convenor, BJP), Shri Ramesh Kumar Bung (Chairman, Mahesh Bank), Shri Pramod Kumar Kedia (Sr. Counsel and Chairman, Agrasen Co-Operative Urban Bank Ltd.), and other eminent personalities of Hyderabad.

The Healthy Hyderabad Health Check has been launched to increase awareness about preventive health checks among the people of Hyderabad. This is part of Apollo Hospitals‘ continuous effort to combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by improving the adoption of health checks. The Healthy Hyderabad Health Check is an exclusive package that offers a full body checkup to individuals through blood and urine work. X-ray and ultrasonography are also part of the package. The exclusive package for women will include cervical screening as well.

Isuzu Motors India to showcase concept D-MAX BEV at Bharat Mobility Expo 2025

18 Jan 2025: Isuzu Motors India will showcase its electric mobility concept pickup with the unveiling of its Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) prototype, D-MAX BEV at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025. The vehicle was first unveiled in Thailand, earlier this year. The D-MAX BEV has been developed to meet a broad range of commercial and passenger vehicle needs while retaining the tough underlying performance expected of pickup trucks. This marks a significant step in Isuzu’s journey toward sustainable innovation, underscoring its commitment to developing future-ready solutions.

The concept vehicle is equipped with a full-time 4WD system with newly developed e-Axles in front and rear, offering excellent performance on rough roads and linear acceleration. With high towing capacity along with a robust frame and body design, the D-MAX BEV will perform just as well as existing diesel models.

In addition to the D-MAX BEV, Isuzu will also showcase the accessorized version of the D-MAX S-CAB Z. The vehicle is a testament to the brand’s legacy of delivering robust, reliable, and versatile vehicles. Renowned for its durability and efficiency, the D-MAX S-CAB Z continues to be a preferred choice for commercial operations, offering exceptional performance and functionality. Both these vehicles align with the company’s Bharat Mobility theme of ‘Now… and Forever.’

Isuzu Motors India made notable achievements in its portfolio in the year 2024. This includes the production milestone of one lakh vehicles at its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility at Sri City, Andhra Pradesh. The landmark milestone was achieved with the rollout of the popular Isuzu D-MAX model that has consistently garnered trust and recognition for its durability and reliability. Isuzu Motors India also strengthened its position as a leading exporter of commercial vehicles from India further reiterating Isuzu’s ‘Make-in-India’ commitment.

In addition to ramping up production, Isuzu Motors India has significantly expanded its reach across the country. Going forward, the company is looking at strategically increasing its touch points for taking the brand much closer to its customers. The company is also making strides in workforce diversity, with 22% of its production line workforce comprising talented women—a reflection of its commitment to inclusivity and empowerment.

As Isuzu continues to deliver vehicles built on a foundation of quality, reliability, and innovation, the brand’s philosophy of “Never Stop” remains at the heart of its operations, inspiring every step toward creating meaningful mobility solutions.

ANKITA REMAINS ON COURSE FOR FIRST ITF DOUBLES TITLE IN 9 MONTHS

JANUARY 17, 2025: India’s top singles player Ankita Raina put herself in title contention in the doubles event of the ITF W50 event on Friday along with British partner Naiktha Bains after pipping an all-Indian team of Riya Bhatia and Vaidehi Chaudhary at DLTA Complex .

Ankita, who made a first-round exit in the singles, and Naiktha prevailed 6-2 6-4 over their rivals in the semifinals.

Ankita and Naikhta had last played a final together in November 2024 in Caloundra, Australia, where they ended as runners-up at the ITF W50 event.

If Ankita wins on Saturday, it will be her first doubles title of the 2025 season and first since her triumph at the Kashiwa event in Japan in April, last year when she had partnered Taipei’s Chia Yi Tsao.

In the singles event, Latvian top-seeded Darja Semenistaja and seventh-seeded Tatiana Prozorova set up the top-half semifinal with easy victories.

Darja outplayed Anastasia Tikhonova 6-1 6-3 in the quarterfinal, while Tatiana ended the impressive run of qualifier Maria Kozyreva 6-1 6-1 in her match.

From the bottom half, Hungary’s second seed Panna Udvardy used all her experience to overcome very talented Laura Samson 4-6 6-1 6-4 in a close quarterfinal.

She will now fight out for a place in the final with British fourth seed Yuriko Lilly Miyazaki, who ousted sixth seed Slovanian Dalila Jakupovic 6-1 6-3 in her quarterfinal.

Anytime Fitness Opens Mumbai Office to Expand Franchises

Mumbai: Anytime Fitness, the world’s largest and fastest-growing gym chain, announced today the launch of its regional corporate office in Mumbai. This office, located at Office No. 904, 9th Floor, 93 East, Mahakali Caves Road, Shanti Nagar, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra—400093, will act as a strategic hub to strengthen franchise sales and operations and drive growth in Mumbai, Pune, Nasik, Nagpur, and the other western regions of India.

The new regional office is another milestone for Anytime Fitness, which meets the world-class fitness solutions as well as presenting an opportunity to upcoming entrepreneurs in a very strategic way. Amongst India’s dynamic cities, Mumbai holds potential and Anytime Fitness is the growing trustworthy brand on its way towards satisfying the increasingly needed premium health and wellness facilities to the people.

Vikas Jain, Managing Director, of Anytime Fitness, said, “We feel happy to set up our presence in Mumbai with a dedicated regional office. This is part of our vision to expand the Anytime Fitness franchise network in Mumbai and other parts of the western region. Also, we look to build this new office to deliver greater support, training, and resources to our franchise partners in the development of spaces that inspire healthier lifestyles.”

With more than 140 gyms operating across India, Anytime Fitness is committed to growing its presence across the nation with its mission “Let’s make healthy Happen” for its members and communities.

The status of the fitness industry in India is constantly changing, and more and more people are looking towards health and wellness. Anytime Fitness, with its 24/7 accessibility, personalized coaching, and community-driven approach, is well poised to address this growing demand. The new Mumbai office will play a vital role in accelerating franchise growth and ensuring seamless operations in the western region

United Way Bengaluru Partners with GE India to Support Women’s Livelihoods through e-Autos

January 17, 2025: In a significant move towards empowering marginalized women, United Way Bengaluru with financial support from GE India Industrial Pvt Ltd (GEIIPL), a world-leading provider of jet and turboprop engines, as well as integrated systems for aviation aircraft, has distributed six e-autos, each equipped with a smartphone, to distressed women from marginalized communities.

The announcement was made through an event that took place at the Office of the Commissioner of Police in the presence of Bengaluru’s Police Commissioner, Shri B. Dayananda, IPS, along with Sanjeev Jha, India Volunteering Leader, GE Aerospace and Rajesh Krishnan, CEO of United Way Bengaluru.

Supported by Parihar, an initiative from the Bengaluru City Commissioner’s Office, this program is dedicated to creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for women from vulnerable communities. It offers training to equip these women with the skills needed to operate e-auto and partner with cab aggregators. Each e-auto is fitted with a smartphone to efficiently manage ride requests through aggregator apps. The eco-friendly transport helps to reduce air pollution, lower carbon emissions, and decrease noise levels in Bengaluru’s urban areas.

“Our long-standing collaboration with GE has been instrumental, and this is yet another program we are privileged to partner with. The E-auto program will empower women to take charge of their lives and earn a livelihood for themselves,” – said Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru.

“At GE Aerospace, we are committed to supporting community initiatives that bring meaningful change for the society. The E-auto program in partnership with the Bengaluru City Commissioner’s Office and United Way Bengaluru is a significant stride towards livelihood generation for women with dignity and respect,” said Sanjeev Jha from GE Aerospace.

This initiative showcases the strength of Public-Private Partnerships in creating meaningful change. By empowering marginalized women with the support of GEIIPL through United Way Bengaluru, and promoting eco-friendly mobility, we are driving both social and environmental progress for a better Bengaluru.” said Sri B. Dayananda, IPS, Police Commissioner, Bengaluru