14 February 2025: Powering Livelihoods is an initiative by the independent think tank Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) and Villgro, which is dedicated to advancing livelihoods through clean technology innovations that have the potential to impact 37 million livelihoods in India’s agriculture and textile sectors. This initiative is aimed at scaling commercial deployments of decentralised renewable energy (DRE) based livelihood technologies including cold-storage startups with sustainable, energy-efficient, and scalable technologies.

By helping startups scale innovative technologies and by facilitating commercial partnerships between entities like go-to-market partners, end-user financiers, etc, Powering Livelihoods seeks to improve large-scale commercial adoption of DRE livelihood technologies in rural areas. The large-scale adoption of these technologies would lead to improving opportunities for higher sustainable income, decrease in drudgery, increase in market access, reduction in food loss, and thus empower communities, all while promoting gender equity and environmental sustainability. The cold-storage solutions that the programme supports, particularly in regions where food waste and supply chain inefficiencies are widespread, have a variety of solutions designed for the prevention of food loss right from the farm gate to the last mile retailer node.

As the global demand for food security and sustainable agriculture practices continues to rise, the need for energy-efficient and environmentally responsible cold storage solutions has never been more urgent, especially in the scenario of climate change and rising heat affecting food loss more than ever. Cold storage systems are essential in extending the shelf life of agricultural produce, reducing waste, and ensuring that products reach markets without spoilage all while providing a better alternative to farmers against distress sale or throw-away of surplus produce. However, the existing cold storage infrastructure in many regions remains limited or outdated, often relying on conventional, energy-intensive methods that exacerbate climate change.

Key focus areas of the Powering Livelihoods initiative are:

• Commercial Scale-Up through Support to Startups: The initiative is committed to driving the growth of startups by providing tailored support, strategic guidance, and resources to scale their operations effectively in the market
• Awareness Generation through Demand Ignition: They focus on creating targeted awareness initiatives designed to stimulate demand, educate consumers and drive market engagement for innovative products and services
• Affordability through Affordable Financing Solutions: They further aim to enhance affordability by offering flexible and accessible financing options that empower consumers and businesses to access the products and services they need without financial strain
• Accessibility through Channel Partnerships: By fostering strategic channel partnerships, they enhance accessibility, ensuring that products and services are available to a wider audience through diverse and reliable distribution networks

Game-changing solutions in the cold storage sector: –

The Powering Livelihoods initiative highlights several key startups that are revolutionizing the cold storage sector with their sustainable and innovative solutions:

• Rukart – Subjee-Cooler (Cold Storage): Based on evaporative cooling, Rukart’s Subjee-Cooler is designed to extend the shelf life of leafy vegetables and fruits by 2-7 days. Ideal for retailers, the Subjee-Cooler preserves produce without the use of chemicals, preventing income loss due to spoilage. It also doubles as a ripening chamber, offering further versatility
• Temperate – Multi-Commodity Cold Storage: Temperate addresses India’s cold chain infrastructure gap with its low-power, cost-effective cold storage technology. Consuming 80% less power than traditional refrigeration systems, Temperate maintains optimal conditions for fruits and vegetables, increasing shelf life and reducing waste
• CoolCrop – Solar-Powered Farm-Gate Cold Storage: CoolCrop offers energy-efficient, portable, modular cold storage units powered by solar energy. Designed for farm-gate use, these units provide cooling services to farmers, cooperatives, and entrepreneurs, enabling them to store produce sustainably and make informed market decisions with predictive analytics
• Newleaf – Biomass-Based Refrigeration System: Newleaf’s patented refrigeration technology is powered by farm waste, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional cold storage. The system is versatile, supporting cold storage, pre-cooling, ripening, and even mushroom cultivation, helping farmers increase shelf life and negotiate better prices for their produce
• Saptkrishi – SabjiKothi (Vegetable storage for cart vendors): Sabjikothi is a highly affordable, weight and space-effective cooling box based on evaporative cooling technology, that cart vendors can use to sell their commodities without fear of it perishing. The cooling box keeps the commodities fresh for about 2 weeks with an anti-pathogen coating to keep them from perishing. Thus Fruits and Vegetables can also be procured in bulk at a negotiated price from wholesalers by the cart vendors

As cold-storage startups like Rukart, Temperate, Newleaf, CoolCrop and Saptkrishi continue to innovate, they are paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient cold chain system. The programme believes that the partnerships created between such technology providers, the go-to-market partners, and end-user financiers would create an ecosystem that would thrive on its own and subsequently create more such partnerships in the future, even without the support of a programme like PL.

By leveraging renewable energy, low-power technologies, and environmentally friendly solutions, these startups address the dual challenges of food waste and sustainability. With the support of the Powering Livelihoods programme, evidence of use cases where commercial viability of such technologies is being generated. This helps the ecosystem partners like market distributors, financiers, government entities, and the end users like farmers, micro-entrepreneurs, and food-producing companies to confidently embrace sustainable cold storage technologies for such use cases

New Delhi, 14th February 2025: Danube Properties, one of the largest private developers in Dubai, has unveiled its latest luxury project, setting a new standard of modern sophistication.

Nestled in the rapidly growing Dubai Silicon Oasis, TIMEZ by the Danube is an exceptional fusion of timeless design and contemporary luxury, offering a level of refinement unparalleled in the area.

What sets TIMEZ by Danube apart is its unique, flexible units designed to adapt to the evolving needs of buyers and residents. These homes are equipped with innovative features that cater to changing preferences over time.

Priced competitively starting at AED 800,000, the units provide an exceptional value proposition. Buyers can also take advantage of Danube Properties’ renowned 1% per month payment plan—an industry trend the developer pioneered.

The project offers a range of luxury apartments, including studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom options. Notably, the flexibility to convert studios into 1-bedroom apartments and 1-bedroom units into 2-bedroom ones offers added customization. For those seeking the utmost in luxury, some 2-bedroom apartments even come with private pools, while the largest 3-bedroom apartments provide expansive living spaces. Additionally, an ultra-luxurious Presidential Suite is available for those desiring exclusive opulence.

Mr. Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Properties, emphasized that TIMEZ by Danube offers UAE residents the opportunity to own their dream home in one of the most rapidly developing areas of Dubai. He highlighted the tremendous value and growth potential of Dubai Silicon Oasis, one of the city’s most desirable locations.

“Dubai Silicon Oasis is a thriving community situated along Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Road, offering excellent connectivity to key parts of Dubai’s modern infrastructure. The launch of TIMEZ by the Danube in this district is a reflection of our confidence in the future growth of this area,” said Mr. Sajan. “Silicon Oasis provides significant capital appreciation and rental yields due to its anticipated connectivity through the Dubai Metro’s Blue Line, which will serve as a game-changer for all communities along Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Road. Additionally, the relocation of Dubai International Airport to Al Maktoum Airport will further boost the area’s appeal.”

Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) is an innovative, tech-focused district that blends modern living with professional opportunities. Strategically located near key highways like the Al Ain – Dubai Highway and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Road, DSO offers seamless access to the rest of the city. This dynamic area is ideal for families and professionals who value an eco-friendly lifestyle, with green spaces, parks, cafes, schools, and retail outlets all within easy reach. As a technology-driven free zone, DSO offers 100% foreign ownership and tax-free benefits, making it a premier destination for both investment and innovation.

“Owning property at TIMEZ by the Danube presents an unparalleled opportunity to invest in one of Dubai’s most sought-after locations, with incredible potential for growth,” Mr. Sajan added.

The proximity of TIMEZ by the Danube to Academic City—home to 27 colleges and universities with around 30,000 students—adds further appeal, especially for students looking to purchase their own homes in this vibrant community.

The project is slated for handover in the third quarter of 2028, with excellent connectivity for residents commuting from Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, and Abu Dhabi.

Latest Campaign

Danube recently announced Bollywood superstar Kartik Aaryan as its brand ambassador. The campaign, “Danube Hai Na,” emphasizes Danube as the ultimate one-stop solution for all home needs—whether it’s building materials, home improvement, or real estate. With flexible payment plans, fully furnished apartments, and 40+ amenities, Danube supports homeowners at every stage—before, during, and after their real estate purchase.

According to Betterhomes, Danube ranked among the top three developers in the off-plan sector for January 2025, based on total sales value, alongside with Emaar and Sobha.

Bengaluru, 14th February 2025: ISHRAE (The Indian Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers) in collaboration with Informa Markets in India, proudly announces the 24th edition of ACREX India 2025, South Asia’s largest exhibition dedicated to air conditioning, heating, ventilation, and intelligent building technologies. Scheduled to take place from 20th to 22nd February 2025 at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC), Bengaluru, the three-day expo will spotlight the immense growth and innovation of India’s HVAC industry, projected to reach from $11.8 billion in 2024 to an impressive $29.4 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 16.3%. The HVAC & R Industry contributes immensely to the National Goal of Net Zero by 20270 since Air Conditioning consumes approximately 50-60 % of energy use in all commercial buildings in all vertical segments.

ACREX India 2025 is designed for professionals across the HVAC industry, including contractors (HVAC, refrigeration, plumbing, mechanical, building automation and controls), consulting and mechanical engineers, architects, wholesalers, distributors, importers, exporters, public utilities, government agencies, procurement teams, testing and certification bodies, R&D specialists, design-build firms, manufacturers’ representatives, and more. The event serves as a key platform for fostering valuable business opportunities and industry collaborations. The three-day expo will host over 500 and attract over 30,000 trade visitors. The expo will witness participation from both exhibitors and visitors from over 40 countries, including Belgium, China, the Czech Republic, Egypt, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, the Netherlands, the UAE, the UK, Ukraine, and the USA. Leading industry players, including Fujitsu General India Pvt Ltd, ABS, Daikin, Danfoss, Voltas Bluestar, Johnson Controls, Carrier, Luftek, Saint-Gobain, Edgetech, AAF, SystemAir, Paharpur, Honeywell, Grundfos, ABB, Thermax, Armstrong, Delta Controls and more, will showcase their latest innovations, providing a comprehensive insight into global HVAC trends and advancements.

This grand edition in Bengaluru stands as an apex in South Asia’s HVAC industry. With the theme ‘Unleashing India’s Potential for A Responsible Built Environment,’ it serves as a powerhouse of innovation, featuring cutting-edge technologies and sustainable solutions. The growing demand for HVAC solutions is driven by the increasing number of high-rise buildings, Commercial Buildings, Multi-use facilities, hypermarkets in Tier-II cities, Data Centres, Super specialty Healthcare facilities shopping complexes, and malls, where HVAC systems are an essential requirement. This growth is further bolstered by the government’s continued emphasis on ongoing smart city projects across the nation, creating new avenues for infrastructure development and technological advancements in the HVACR sector.

The show is amply supported by both domestic and international associations such as the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Trades Association (RATA), All India Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Association (ACRA), American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration (IIAR), Assocham India, Indian Plumbing Association, India Green Building Council (IGBC), FSAI, UN Environment Programme, International Copper Association India, Contamination Control Society of India (CCSI), Federation of European Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Associations (REHVA), IIFIIR, ISKID, Green Business Certification Institute (GBCI), among others.

Mr. Anoop Ballaney, Society President, ISHRAE said “The HVAC industry is advancing rapidly, driven by breakthrough innovations in energy efficiency, smart automation, and sustainable climate control solutions. At ISHRAE, we remain at the forefront of shaping industry standards, pioneering research, and fostering technical excellence in HVACR systems. ACREX India 2025 will be a crucial platform for industry professionals, engineers, and researchers to exchange insights on cutting-edge HVAC technologies, from advanced refrigerants and decarbonization strategies to AI-driven building automation and net-zero cooling solutions. Through our commitment to technical standardization and skill development, ISHRAE continues to play a pivotal role in guiding the industry toward global best practices and regulatory compliance. As India’s demand for climate-responsive infrastructure grows, it is imperative to drive the adoption of intelligent, high-performance HVAC solutions that prioritize efficiency, resilience, and sustainability. ACREX India will not only showcase the latest technological advancements but also reinforce the importance of technical collaboration in setting new benchmarks for the industry.”

Speaking on the announcement of ACREX India, Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India said, “The demand for HVAC systems in India is witnessing a steady rise, driven by rapid urbanisation, expanding infrastructure, and an increasing emphasis on energy efficiency and indoor air quality. Government initiatives such as the Energy Conservation and Sustainable Building Code (ECSBC), ‘Make in India,’ and Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes are accelerating the adoption of energy-efficient and smart HVAC technologies, aligning with India’s vision for carbon neutrality by 2070. As South Asia’s premier event for the HVAC industry, ACREX India 2025 will serve as a channel for innovation, collaboration, and knowledge exchange. With a focus on sustainable and intelligent building solutions, the event will bring together global leaders, policymakers, and industry professionals to drive the future of HVAC technology and position India as a key player in the global HVAC landscape.”

Celebrating Industry Excellence

Attendees at ACREX India 2025 can look forward to an exciting lineup of events celebrating excellence, innovation, and industry advancements. The prestigious ACREX Awards of Excellence will honor outstanding contributions and groundbreaking products in the HVAC sector. Adding to the prestige, the ACREX Hall of Fame will recognise industry icons whose visionary contributions continue to inspire building developers, architects, and designers. The expo will also feature dynamic zones such as the Startup Pavilion, Innovation Zone, and Demo Zone, providing a platform for emerging technologies and hands-on experiences. B2B Meetings and the Solution Center will facilitate valuable industry collaborations, while Technical Seminars & Workshops (delivered by distinguished speakers from across the globe), the Launch Pad, and Idea Presentations will showcase the latest trends, insights, and transformative solutions shaping the future of HVACR.

 

JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru is set to transform the city’s culinary scene with An Italian Soirée, an extraordinary dining event led by the acclaimed Chef Matteo Arvonio. Launching on 31st January 2025 and held every Friday at ALBA, the hotel’s celebrated Italian restaurant, this gastronomic experience promises a sophisticated journey into the heart of Italy’s rich culinary heritage.

Every week, Chef Matteo will unveil a meticulously curated six-course tasting menu, blending the finest and freshest ingredients with authentic Italian flavors and modern innovation. With each course crafted to perfection, the menu will highlight the timeless artistry of Italian cuisine, offering a harmonious balance of taste, texture, and presentation.

To further elevate the experience, each dish will be expertly paired with a handpicked selection of premium wines, chosen to complement the flavors and evoke the essence of the Mediterranean. From bold reds to crisp whites, these wine pairings will add a layer of sophistication, making every bite a celebration of culinary excellence.

With its intimate ambiance, exquisite food, and exceptional wine, An Italian Soirée is not just a dinner but an immersive journey into the heart of Italy. This exclusive event is designed to captivate the senses and provide an unforgettable fine-dining experience that reflects the essence of ALBA’s culinary philosophy.

Indulge in the artistry of Italian cuisine at ALBA, where Chef Matteo Arvonio redefines fine dining with elegance and passion.

Where: ALBA, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru
When: Starting 31st January 2025, Every Friday

14th February 2025: CRAZE by Swiss Beauty, one of India’s fastest-growing beauty and cosmetics brands, is turning up the volume with an AI-created rap anthem that celebrates self-love, confidence, and individuality. Blending music, technology, and beauty, this campaign makes every listener feel like the main character of their own story. Set to an infectious beat, the anthem features four distinct Gen Z personas—The Trendsetter, The Dreamer, The Rebel, and The Girl Next Door— ensuring that everyone can find a reflection of themselves within the CRAZE Tribe.

This catchy, confident lyric drives home the campaign’s key message—Swiss Beauty CRAZE isn’t just about following trends, it’s about creating and owning them. The anthem reflects the digital-first world that Gen Z thrives in, making it a natural extension of their identity.

Beyond the music, the campaign also highlights CRAZE by Swiss Beauty’s best-selling products, including the Eyeliner and Stamp Duo, Basic Multiface Palette, Duo Mascara, and Lip and Cheek Macaron. These multifunctional, high-performance beauty essentials empower young women to express themselves unapologetically, whether it’s through striking lip shades, bold eye looks, or effortless everyday glam.

Conceptualized by Hashtag Orange, a leading integrated marketing agency, the ad film captures the fearless energy of the CRAZE woman by introducing Queen C as the ultimate embodiment of self-expression and individuality. With every beat and every swipe of makeup, the campaign celebrates the bold, playful, and vibrant spirit of modern beauty.

Vidushi Goyal, CMO, of Swiss Beauty, said, “Beauty is evolving, and so are the ways we express ourselves. With CRAZE, we wanted to go beyond just makeup. It’s more about attitude, confidence, and owning your vibe. AI has transformed the way we interact with trends, and this campaign reflects that shift. We hope every young woman finds her rhythm in the CRAZE anthem and embraces the fearless, vibrant energy it represents.”

Gaurang Menon, Creative Head, Hashtag Orange, added, “With this film, we wanted to create an experience that feels as fresh and dynamic as the Gen Z audience it speaks to. We integrated AI-generated vocals with high-energy beats, to match the film’s bold visual storytelling. As the co-director of this film, it was truly exciting and enriching to craft something that fuses technology, rap, music, and beauty into a seamless, high-impact visual narrative.”

Whether it’s V-Day or D-Day, CRAZE by Swiss Beauty ensures that every moment is an opportunity to stand out. The campaign is now live across digital platforms, inviting young women everywhere to embrace their individuality and join the movement.

Chitradurga: 14 February 2025: Vedanta IOK’s, in collaboration with, Basaveshwara Medical College & Hospital, Chitradurga, Community Health Centre, Sirigere & Medihelp Foundation organized a ‘Multi-specialty Mega Health Camp’, at Community Health Centre, Sirigere.The health camp benefitted community members from around 25 villages.

The health camp, organised under Sesa Goa’s Project ‘Aarogya’, provided speciality services including Orthopaedics, Ophthalmology, Dermatology, ENT, Dental, General Medicine, Paediatrics, and Gynaecologist. BP & Sugar Tests were also carried out for the visiting community members. Advise about medical conditions and lifestyle diseases such as anaemia, Hypertension, Diabetes, knee and body pain, varicose veins, thyroid etc.

Manjappa, an 83-year-old person, hailing from Muthugduru village, Chitradurga, said, “I have been suffering from knee pain and body ache, and so I decided to visit the Multi-specialty Mega Health camp, organised by Vedanta – Iron Ore Karnataka at the Community Health Centre (CHC), Sirigere. The doctors from Basaveshwara Medical College & Hospital provided me with very good treatment and gave me the required medications. The camp was very beneficial for all the community members including me, for whom it is difficult to travel to Chitradurga city for treatment. The health camp was easily accessible to us, as it was organised in a nearby location. Thank you, Vedanta IOK, for the health camp!”

Dr Pavithra, MBBS, Community Health Centre (CHC), Sirigere, said, “Vedanta IOK has been constantly helping CHC, Sirigere, by conducting Multi-specialty Mega Health Camps, once in three months, in collaboration with the Basaveshwara Medical College & Hospital, Chitradurga. The company has provided us a lot of assistance, during the COVID times. They conduct regular health awareness sessions on diseases such as Malaria, Tuberculosis, Cervical cancer, Menstrual health awareness session, and so on. Vedanta’s Mobile Health Unit (MHU) benefits community members in the remotest villages of Chitradurga, by providing services twice a week, and treating patients suffering from non-communicable diseases such as hypertensions & Diabetes mellitus.”

Mr. Shrishaila Gouda, CEO – Vedanta Iron Ore Karnataka said, “We are glad to have created an impact in the lives of over 330 people across villages, through the health camp. This camp reflects our deep commitment to improving the health and well-being of the communities in which we operate. By bringing together a diverse team of medical specialists, we aim to provide comprehensive healthcare services that are often inaccessible in rural areas. We are proud to play a role in enhancing the quality of life for residents through this significant endeavour.”

Under Project ‘Aarogya’, over 100 health awareness camps have been organised in FY ’24. Other initiatives include the Mobile Health Unit (MHU), which provides services to the remotest villages in Chitradurga, medical equipment distribution, the contribution of >800 units of blood through blood donation drives, cancer awareness sessions, cancer, Malaria, Anti-tobacco awareness sessions, Menstrual Health and Hygiene, and so on.

The initiative, organised under Vedanta Sesa Goa’s Project ‘Aarogya’, benefitted over 50 Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) and Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANM), equipping them with tools vital to enhancing their critical roles in healthcare delivery, and was held at Taluka Health Office, Chitradurga.

Mumbai, February 14, 2025 – Gensol Group is proud to announce that its visionary founders, Anmol Singh Jaggi and Puneet Singh Jaggi, have been recognized by Hurun India as India’s Most Respectable Entrepreneurs. This distinguished accolade celebrates their extraordinary journey as self-made leaders and underscores their pivotal role in advancing India’s clean energy transition.

As first-generation entrepreneurs, Anmol and Puneet Singh Jaggi have built a formidable presence in renewable energy, e-mobility, and technology, overcoming challenges with resilience and strategic foresight. Under their leadership, Gensol Engineering Ltd. has become a key player in India’s clean energy landscape, pioneering solutions in solar, green hydrogen, and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). Through BluSmart, they are decarbonizing, electrifying, and revolutionizing mobility in India, driving the transition toward cleaner transportation solutions. Their entrepreneurial journey also extends to technology, with Prescinto, an AI-powered renewable energy platform recently acquired by IBM, reinforcing their reputation as forward-thinking innovators shaping India’s sustainable future.

Hurun Report, established in 1999, is a global research and luxury publishing group renowned for its in-depth analysis of wealth creation and innovation. Since its India launch in 2012, Hurun has spotlighted stories of entrepreneurial excellence, transparent wealth creation, and philanthropy. The Hurun India’s Most Respected Entrepreneurs Awards celebrates visionary business leaders who have reshaped India’s economic landscape and strengthened its global influence. This year’s prestigious list of honorees includes Dilip Shanghvi, Founder of Sun Pharmaceuticals; Shashwat Goenka, Vice-Chairman of RP Sanjiv Goenka Group; and Sunil Vachani, Co-founder and Executive Chairman of Dixon Technologies India—each recognized for their transformative contributions to India’s growth and innovation.

This recognition by Hurun India reinforces Gensol Group’s commitment to driving sustainable innovation. With a focus on reducing carbon footprints and promoting environmental stewardship, the Group remains dedicated to delivering cutting-edge solutions that pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future.

Mumbai, 14th February 2025: Pepperfry, India’s leading e-commerce furniture and home décor company, is stepping into the world of love with a unique and heart-warming campaign this Valentine’s Day. Studies show that Gen Z often struggles with love—overthinking, analyzing every detail, and fearing red flags. But what if love is easier than they think? With Pepperfry Love Consultants, customers can receive real-time love advice over a call or chat at 022-6116-7374, guiding them through their romantic uncertainties with humor and wisdom.

The campaign video perfectly captures the essence of modern dating anxiety. It opens with a young woman receiving a text: “I love you. No pressure.” Instead of feeling joy, panic sets in. Her mind spirals into overanalysis—What if he’s not a plant dad? What if he turns on the main light instead of a lamp? She searches for red flags where there are none. As the scene unfolds, we see the truth—he’s a walking green flag. There are no red flags; it is just a genuine connection waiting to happen. Finally, she takes a deep breath, lets go of the overthinking, and texts back: “I love you too.” Because love isn’t that complicated after all. Love is easy.

Speaking about the campaign, Archana Kumari, Lead of brand Marketing at Pepperfry, said, “This campaign was born out of countless casual conversations (and some lunch table debates) with our Gen Z teammates. While they described the endless complications of modern dating—ghosting, benching, and all the new-age heartbreaks—we kept insisting that love is actually quite simple. So, as millennials at Pepperfry, we decided to step in and help. This Valentine’s Day, our love consultants are here to guide you through the chaos. And since we know Gen Z isn’t big on calls, we’ve made it even easier—just drop us a chat. No overthinking, no mixed signals—just real talk.”

 

National, February 14, 2024: BookMyShow Foundation proudly announces the launch of BookAChange, dedicated to enriching the lives of underprivileged talent through the transformative power of music and performance arts.

Originally launched as BookASmile in 2014 by BookMyShow, India’s leading entertainment destination, the impact-led initiative has now evolved into BookAChange, with a renewed vision to democratise access to music and the performing arts, for individuals and communities from marginalized backgrounds. At the core of BookAChange lies a powerful pledge towards inspiring and nurturing future pioneers in music and performing arts. Beyond just music and performance skills, BookAChange encourages holistic development, fostering emotional, social, and intellectual growth in its beneficiaries. This approach aims to instill qualities such as responsibility, self-esteem, empathy, purpose, and resilience, creating well-rounded individuals ready to make their mark on the world.

BookAChange is excited to introduce its new music scholarship program, pledging 500 music scholarships, aimed at empowering talented individuals from underprivileged backgrounds across India.BookAChange Music Scholarships will support students and street artists pursuing education in music and the business of music at accredited institutions. This includes, but is not limited to music education in fields such as Instrumental, Vocals, Audio Production, Business of Music, and Songwriting. BookAChange will offer financial assistance to students from marginalized backgrounds. The application process to avail of  a BookAChange Music Scholarship is now open

Seamlessly integrated with the BookMyShow platform, BookAChange harnesses the collective spirit of millions of entertainment enthusiasts to drive meaningful change. With each ticket purchase, starting from donating just Re. 1/-, consumers are invited to be a part of something bigger – fueling a movement that touches lives through music. Direct contributions, beyond these micro-donations, are also welcome here.

Speaking about the launch of BookAChange, Farzana Cama Balpande, Head – of BookAChange, said, “BookAChangemarks the beginning of a new chapter where our commitment to making a difference through the arts deepens and expands. With BookAChange, we aim to amplify our impact by nurturing dreams, bridging gaps, and creating inclusive access where everyone has the chance to flourish. We want to democratize access to music and the performing arts, empower marginalized individuals and communities, and inspire the next generation of industry trailblazers. Our journey ahead is not just about the arts; it’s about inspiration, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of a brighter world for all.”

BookAChange is set to launch a series of transformative initiatives across India, reinforcing its mission to make music education accessible to all. In Mumbai, 30 students from Dharavi are receiving specialized training in Rap and DJing, equipping them with essential skills under expert mentorship to showcase Dharavi Dreams, India’s first-ever hip-hop musical theatre. Additionally, 125 children from Mumbai’s BMC schools are currently on an intensive 10-month journey in Hindustani classical music through a specialized choir program, opening doors to advanced learning and certification.

Expanding its reach to Delhi, BookAChange supports a Music Bus, a mobile recording studio that provides over 6,000 children with hands-on experience in songwriting, recording, and music production. Further spreading the joy of music, the‘#MusicForAll’initiative brings therapeutic music sessions to senior citizen homes, and orphanages reaffirming the profound healing power of melodies across generations. Through these impactful programs, BookAChange continues to champion music as a force for empowerment, expression, and social change.

In a powerful demonstration of its impact, BookAChangerecently took 25 beneficiaries, comprising 20 students and 5 music educators, on a transformative journey to Coldplay’s Music Of The Spheres World Tour in Mumbai, marking a life-changing first for many. For the students, attending this concert was nothing short of exhilarating. Nikhil Bidlan, one of the beneficiaries, shared his excitement, stating, “I’m so excited to have attended the first concert of my life! The music, the lights, the energy – everything felt like a dream. It made me feel like anything is possible if you believe. I will never forget this day”. Arya Bhoir echoed this sentiment, adding, “When the music started, I felt so happy inside. I closed my eyes and just listened. It was the best feeling ever. Now, I want to learn more, practice more, and maybe one day, I can be on a stage like that too.”

The experience was equally impactful for the music educators. For them, it was not just about witnessing a world-class performance but also about drawing inspiration to enrich their teaching. The event provided invaluable lessons in music appreciation and the power of live performances, inspiring both students and educators alike. Pooja Waghela, a music educator, said, “Seeing my students experience live music like this was very special. It showed them how powerful music can be. It also gave me new ideas to teach them and make learning more exciting. Thank you, BookAChange, for making this possible for us.”

Additionally, the second edition of the Red Lorry Film Festival will be brought to you by BookAChange, by BookMyShow Foundation, aiming to raise funds to support emerging artists and daily wage workers in the cinema industry.

For a decade, BookASmile has been the heart of BookMyShow which spreads countless smiles, enriching the lives of underprivileged children through experiences in music, art, theatre, dance, and sports. This spirit of uplifting and empowering those from disadvantaged backgrounds has always been the essence of BookASmile. Through the transition to BookAChange, it will carry forward this legacy with a renewed focus on the transformative power of music and performing arts. BookAChange will now fuel its commitment towards music and performing arts, continuing to build on the foundation laid by BookASmile.