Kashmiri Cultural Festival Concludes on a High Note at AIPL Joy Street, Gurugram
The vibrant spirit of Kashmir came alive in Gurugram as the four-day Kashmiri Cultural Festival concluded at AIPL Joy Street, Sector 66, on April 13, 2025. The event, held from Thursday to Sunday, celebrated the rich cultural heritage, art, and culinary traditions of Jammu and Kashmir, attracting over 2000 visitors.
The festival was organized by Pambuch Cultural Heritage Foundation and was graced by the presence of Shri. Gaurav Gautam, Honorable Minister of Sports, Haryana Government, who commended the initiative for promoting cultural exchange and honoring India’s diversity. The immersive event featured captivating traditional dance performances, including Chakri acts from Srinagar and displays by dancers from the Jagti Camp in Jammu. Visitors were also treated to live musical performances by artists from Jammu, Srinagar, and Delhi, filling the venue with the soul-stirring melodies of Kashmir.
One of the biggest crowd-pullers was the authentic Kashmiri cuisine, with dishes like Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, Yakhni, and Kahwa drawing in large numbers of food lovers each day. Additionally, several stalls showcased premium dry fruits, traditional masalas, local handicrafts, and other regional treasures.
The event also showcased live demonstrations of traditional Kashmiri crafts by master artisans. From papier-mâché and intricate embroidery to wood carving, these sessions offered a rare insight into the valley’s exquisite craftsmanship.
The festival closed on a high note, leaving visitors with a deep appreciation of the traditions and artistry rooted in the heart of the valley.
GHR Infra Receives Occupancy Certificate for TITANIA, Setting a New Standard in Sustainable Urban Living
Hyderabad, 15th April 2025: GHR Infra is proud to announce the receipt of the Occupancy Certificate (OC) for its flagship project, TITANIA, marking a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to providing modern, sustainable living spaces. Located in Kondapur, a prime area with excellent connectivity to IT hubs, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and entertainment zones, TITANIA stands out for its thoughtful design and focus on sustainability.
Designed for the discerning homebuyer, TITANIA blends innovative architecture with eco-friendly features, including rainwater harvesting, electric vehicle charging stations, waste recycling, solar power, and smart lighting systems. With these sustainable elements, TITANIA meets the growing demand for environmentally responsible living. The project, pre-certified Gold by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), reinforces GHR Infra’s dedication to creating spaces that prioritize both luxury and the environment.
Speaking on this achievement, Mr. Karteesh Reddy Madgula, CEO of GHR Infra, said, “Receiving the Occupancy Certificate for GHR TITANIA marks a significant step in our mission to provide homes that truly align with what today’s homebuyers want—comfort, sustainability, and practicality. We’ve focused on creating spaces that are not only built to the highest standards but also offer long-term value, integrating technology and eco-friendly solutions for a better living experience. With TITANIA, we’re confident that residents will find a home that meets both their current needs and future aspirations.”
The 2, 2.5, and 3 BHK apartments, with sizes ranging from 1,270 to 2,509 sq. ft., are designed to cater to various family sizes and lifestyles. The project also boasts a 23,700 sq. ft. clubhouse, recreational facilities, and essential services that contribute to a well-rounded lifestyle for residents. With 480 thoughtfully designed apartments, TITANIA has generated strong market interest, reflecting its appeal among homebuyers seeking a combination of luxury, sustainability, and practicality. As a result, the project presents an attractive investment opportunity, offering long-term value in a well-connected, thriving area.
Fytika Introduces Sleep Eazzz Gummies for Better Rest
New Delhi, 15th April, 2025: Fytika, a leading wellness brand, has launched Fytika Sleep Eazzz Gummies, an innovative, non-addictive solution designed to promote deep, restorative sleep naturally. With increasing screen time, work-related stress, and disrupted routines, India is grappling with an escalating sleep crisis. Studies indicate that India ranks as the second most sleep-deprived country, with 6 out of 10 Indians facing occasional sleeplessness and insomnia rates ranging between 13.8% and 33%.
Modern lifestyles have disrupted natural sleep cycles, with longer screen exposure, increased stress, late-night work hours, and unhealthy dietary habits contributing to widespread sleep deprivation. Poor sleep not only affects mental well-being but is also linked to serious health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Fytika Sleep Eazzz Gummies provide a scientifically formulated and Ayurvedic-backed approach to better sleep.
Shivam Tyagi, Co-Founder of Fytika Healthcare, said, “Sleep is the foundation of overall well-being, and we have designed Fytika Sleep Eazzz Gummies to offer a natural, effective solution for those struggling with sleep disturbances. By combining the power of Melatonin with Ayurvedic wisdom and essential minerals, we offer a scientifically backed and safe approach to improving sleep quality, ensuring individuals wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.”
Dr. Himanshu Varshney, MBBS, Resident in Respiratory Medicine and Critical Care, Consultant at Fytika Healthcare, highlights the severity of India’s sleep crisis: “Sleep deprivation is a growing public health concern in India, with 61% of Indians sleeping less than six hours per night, leading to serious long-term health risks. Studies indicate that individuals who consistently get inadequate sleep have a 48% higher risk of developing heart disease and a 50% increased likelihood of diabetes. Additionally, chronic sleep loss contributes to a 33% increase in daytime drowsiness, reducing workplace productivity and increasing accident risks. Women are particularly affected, with 38% struggling to fall asleep compared to 29% of men, often due to hormonal fluctuations. Given these alarming trends, it is essential to incorporate natural, effective solutions that support healthy sleep patterns.”
Fytika Sleep Eazzz Gummies are designed to naturally regulate sleep-wake cycles and promote relaxation with a blend of Melatonin, Ayurvedic herbs like Jatamansi, Chamomile, and Valeriana, and essential minerals such as Zinc and Magnesium. Unlike conventional sleep aids, these gummies are free from added sugar, artificial additives, and the risk of dependency, making them a clean and safe alternative for everyday use.
Designed for both men and women, Fytika Sleep Eazzz Gummies help alleviate anxiety, regulate sleep cycles, and promote long-term sleep health without any side effects or dependency risks. The gummies are now available for purchase on Fytika’s official website and leading online marketplaces.
Kamdhenu Jeevandhara: Basic Computer Skills for All
Gurugram, 15th April, 2025: Kamdhenu Jeevandhara Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of Kamdhenu Group has awarded completion certificate to top 5 underprivileged youths of the Basic Computer Course. The program covers essential computer operations, popular software applications, and internet skills. The course is designed to match current industry skill demands and offers a pathway to gainful employment within the formal corporate sector.
Ms. Radha Agarwal, Chairperson, Kamdhenu Jeevandhara Foundation said, “Delivering Basic Computer skills to the underprivileged youths equips them with the necessary tools to navigate the digital world that we live in today. In a short span of 6 years, the initiative had delivered this essential life skill to hundreds of youths, making them ready for gainful employment in suitable roles in the corporate world. We are delighted to have played an important role in facilitating and equipping them with this important milestone that will have a lasting impact on their lives. It is our long standing commitment to drive positive community engagements so that we play our part in uplifting communities as we drive business growth and contribute towards a Viksit Bharat in the near future.”
With AI making deeper inroads into our lives, the Basic Computer Program introduces young minds to the world of computers and lays the foundation for further skill development in the field. Kamdhenu Jeevandhara imparts valuable, lasting skills that empower participants to contribute meaningfully to the society.
NODWIN Gaming Appoints Shefali Johnson as Leader
Mumbai, 15 April 2025: Comic Con India, the pioneering pop culture extravaganza, sets forth a leadership transition with Shefali Johnson as the new CEO. She takes over the reins from the core team, as the pop culture platform enters an exciting new chapter of growth and expansion. Founder Jatin Varma, who has led the brand since its inception alongside co-founder Karan Kalra and Event Director Sonal Varma, will be stepping back from day-to-day operations. The trio will continue to support the company’s long-term vision in an advisory capacity, ensuring continuity, creative direction, and a strong connection to the community they’ve helped nurture over the past decade.
Following a landmark year post-acquisition, which saw Comic Con India expand to 3 newer cities and deliver its biggest season yet, the company is now poised for even greater scale. With a sharp focus on innovation, inclusivity, and immersive fan experiences, Shefali Johnson’s appointment marks a strategic step toward building the next era of Comic Con India. Her leadership will drive the brand’s long-term vision — deepening fan engagement, growing regional reach, and solidifying Comic Con’s role as the definitive pop culture experience in the country. As a key member of NODWIN Gaming’s core leadership team, Shefali has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth and innovation, successfully spearheading several of its flagship live IPs over the years — including DreamHack India, BGMS, and the Cosplay vertical & championships.
In January 2024, NODWIN Gaming acquired 100% ownership of Comic Con India at a ₹55 crore valuation, ushering in a new era of expansion. Since the acquisition, Comic Con India expanded its footprint by debuting in 3 new cities — Kolkata, Ahmedabad, and Pune — in addition to its marquee events in Hyderabad, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Mumbai. This momentum reflects NODWIN Gaming’s vision to bring together gaming, cosplay, comics, and esports into a singular fan ecosystem — one that’s growing bolder, broader, and more immersive with every edition
Reflecting on his journey, Jatin Varma, “Bringing Comic Con to India and watching it evolve into a cultural movement has been a lifetime honor. What began as a dream is now a vibrant platform for fans, creators, and brands across the country. Karan, Sonal, and I are incredibly proud of what we’ve built and we leave knowing that Comic Con India is in great hands with NODWIN Gaming. Shefali brings the perfect blend of vision, experience, and drive to take our labour of love to greater scale. We look forward to supporting her and the team in an advisory capacity as they shape the future of fandom in India across cities”
Shefali Johnson, the newly appointed CEO of Comic Con India, added, “Stepping into this role is both a privilege and a responsibility. Jatin, Karan and Sonal have built something truly iconic, and I’m honoured to carry their vision forward. Comic Con India, at its core, has always been about uniting fans, creators, and brands in an immersive way, and that will never change. What will evolve is the scale — we plan to grow this platform into newer cities, introduce newer formats, and create experiences that are more inclusive, dynamic, and reflective of India’s evolving pop culture identity. The road ahead is filled with possibilities, and we can’t wait to deliver even more unforgettable editions to our fans.”
Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder and Managing Director of NODWIN Gaming said, “We’re incredibly excited to have Shefali step in as the new CEO of Comic Con India. She’s been a key part of the NODWIN journey and brings the right mix of leadership, vision, and passion to take Comic Con India into its next chapter. As the original core team moves into advisory roles, we’re staying true to our commitment of growing fan culture across the country. With Shefali at the helm, we’re looking forward to building on everything we’ve created so far—expanding our reach, deepening fan engagement, and continuing to celebrate the communities that make Comic Con what it is.”
Since its inception in 2011, Comic Con India has emerged as the ultimate destination for fans of comics, superheroes, anime, gaming, and geek culture. From hosting legendary creators, blockbuster previews, and cosplay championships to boasting exclusive merchandise and interactive fan-first experiences, it has built a thriving community across the country, and beyond. Now, with the backing of NODWIN Gaming and Shefali Johnson at the helm, Comic Con India is poised to achieve new milestones, reaching more cities and welcoming new fandoms nationwide.
IPO-bound Belrise Industries Limited Expands with H-One
April 15, 2025: Belrise, an automotive-component manufacturer and one of the top companies in the overall two-wheeler metal components segment in India, announced the acquisition of H-One India from Japan-based publicly listed H-One Co., Ltd. (H-One Co.). This move aims to expand Belrise’s design and manufacturing capabilities and strengthen its position as a supplier of chassis systems and body-in-white parts in the Indian automotive market.
H-One India, the Indian subsidiary of H-One Co., is involved in the design and manufacturing of high-tensile steel components and high-tensile tool development for 4-wheelers and 2-wheelers. High-tensile steel components are crucial for light-weighting, enhancing vehicle safety, fuel efficiency, and overall performance. These high-tensile materials offer superior strength-to-weight ratios, enabling automakers to design lighter yet durable and robust vehicles that meet stringent safety and environmental standards.
H-One India’s established clientele includes multiple marquee Indian and Japanese 4-wheeler and 2-Wheeler OEMs. This acquisition will broaden Belrise’s customer base as well as increase product diversification within its existing customers.
Through this acquisition, Belrise aims to enhance its production capacity and logistical efficiency by leveraging H-One India’s two manufacturing facilities in North India and integrating H-One India’s core technological capabilities.
Bank of India Withdraws its Special 400 Days Fixed Deposit
Chandigarh, April 15, 2025: Bank of India, one of the leading public sector banks in India, has announced to withdraw its special fixed deposit scheme for 400 days where interest rate was at maximum of 7.30%. Also, Bank has reduced Rate of Interest on its short-term & medium-term Fixed Deposits for various maturities w.e.f 15th April 2025. The bank has reduced its rate for Fixed Deposits for amount of less than Rs.3.00 Crs and is now offering 4.25% for deposits maturing between 91 days and 179 days and 5.75% for 180 days to less than 1 year. Deposits for one year would get an interest rate of 7.05% while those above 1 year up to 2 years would get 6.75%. The deposit in the amount bucket of 3 crores to less than Rs 10 Crs, Bank will be offering 5.75% for deposits maturing between 91 days and 179 days, 6.25% for 180 days to up to 210 days, and 6.50% for deposits of 211 days to less than one year. Deposits for one year would get an interest rate of 7.05% while those above 1 year to less than 2 years would get 6.70%. The revised rates are to be made effective from 15th April, 2025. An additional rate of interest of 0.65% on deposits of Super Senior Citizens and 0.50% on deposits of Senior Citizens below Rs. 3 Crs is offered for Fixed Deposits with a maturity period of 6 months & above.
Nandi Economic Corridor Enterprise Ltd Receives Recognition
Bengaluru April 14, 2025* – Nandi Economic Corridor Enterprise (NECE) Ltd, a leading infrastructure development company, was honored with the Achievement Award for Best Construction Projects under Category F at the 16th CIDC Vishwakarma Awards 2025, instituted by the Construction Industry Development Council, set up jointly by Planning Commission (Govt of India) and construction industry
The ceremony took place on April 11, 2025, at the Bhim Auditorium, Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, Janpath, New Delhi.
The award recognizes NECE Ltd’s outstanding work on the Bangalore Mysore Infrastructure Corridor (BMIC) project in Bengaluru, Karnataka. This project showcases the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure solutions that transform the urban landscape.
“We are thrilled to receive this prestigious award, which acknowledges our team’s dedication and expertise in delivering exceptional infrastructure projects. The BMIC project is a testament to our company’s vision of creating world-class infrastructure that drives economic growth and improves the quality of life for citizens,” said Mr. Ashok Kheny, Managing Director, Nandi Economic Corridor Enterprise (NECE) Ltd.
“This award is a recognition of our team’s hard work and commitment to excellence. We are proud to be contributing to the growth and development of the region through our infrastructure projects, and we look forward to continuing to deliver innovative and sustainable solutions for urban infrastructure challenges,” added Mr. Ashok Kheny.
The 16th CIDC Vishwakarma Awards 2025 celebrated the best of the construction industry, and NECE Ltd is the only company from Karnataka to receive the prestigious award in the infrastructure category, which is a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence in infrastructure development.
Mapic India Shopping Centre Summit 2025 – Maha Kumbh of Retail Set to Showcase the Next Chapter in India’s Retail Revolution
New Delhi, April 14, 2025: As India’s retail market is expected to reach USD 2 trillion by 2035 (Source: Kearney Global Retail Development Index), Mapic India Shopping Centre Summit – Maha Kumbh of Retail will unite the leaders in retail, real estate, and technology on April 15, 2025, at the JW Marriott Hotel, Aerocity, New Delhi. The event will encapsulate the theme “Next-Gen Retail: Navigating Disruption, Seizing Opportunities,” leveraging the advantage of an exclusive value proposition, intertwining human experience, advanced technology, and customer confidence to garner interest in today’s fast-moving world of immediate satisfaction. A friendly T20 cricket match between India’s top Retailers and Developers will kick off the event on April 16th.
With a booming consumption economy, the problem is not demand but differentiation in the midst of a deluge of new brands, malls and store formats that are fast fragmenting the marketplace. The pie needs to focus on the most recent strategies for innovation, digital transformation and sustainable growth, with insightful inputs to steer through the fast-changing Indian retail environment. With the shopping habits shifting rapidly, technology and ease of use are now the prime drivers. AI and new-age technologies are revolutionizing experiences, while the “real Bharat”—Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities—proves to be a goldmine of opportunity, where there lies massive, untapped potential for growth.
Key Speakers who will be sharing their insights in the event include Pushpa Bector, Senior Executive Director and Business Head, DLF Retail; Bijit Nair, Senior Director – Direct to Consumer (DTC), Adidas; Arjun Singh Gehlot, Director, Ambience Group; Shibu Philips, Director, Shopping Malls LULU Group; Pramod Arora, CEO, PVR INOX Limited; Harsh Bansal, Co-Founder, Unity Group and Vegas Mall; Dr Ananta Singh Raghuvanshi, Founder & Chairperson, NAREDCO Mahi (Under the aegis of Ministry of Housing and Urban affairs); Samim Sekh, Deputy Chief Architect, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC); Abbas Jabalpurwala, CEO, Timezone India; Abhishek Bansal, Executive Director, Pacific Malls and more.
As the retail industry is being transformed at a breakneck pace by new technologies, changing consumer tastes, and sustainability needs, Mapic India Shopping Centre Event will seek to address the urgent forces remaking the industry’s future. This year’s agenda will delve into the redefinition of retail environments, with a focus on blended environments that enrich customer experiences through next-gen malls, omnichannel retailing models, and customer engagement enabled by AI. Particular focus will be placed on the increasing importance of sustainability in retail real estate, with debate on how green building techniques, energy efficiency, and sustainable development are becoming the focal point of the industry’s transformation.
Mr. Umang Gupta, RX India Country General Manager, stated, “With the fast-changing dynamics of Indian Retail & Real estate sectors, the only way to flourish and capture the mind of the Indian consumer is to grasp the ‘New Retail Code’ .
Mapic India Shopping Centre Event 2025 is the industry’s forum to address key opportunities, trends and transformations offering solutions to exponentially grow your business investments. With increased international participation from prominent global retail and technology brands, this year’s event is focused on Indian startups and D2C innovators. ‘Differentiation’ in a highly competitive market like India is the only survival code.
Mapic India Shopping Centre Event 2025 continues to be the flagship forum and the ‘Mahakumbh’ or melting pot of Retail industry players, with the opportunity to build networks, forge business ideas & innovations that will shape the future of retail and build global retail brands coming from India.”
Speaking about the event, Ashna Gemini Sharan, Portfolio Director, RX India said “In the ever-evolving landscape of retail, characterized by the rise of e-commerce, shifting consumer behaviours and technological advancements, there exists an unprecedented opportunity for retailers in the coming decade. Anyone looking to tap into India’s immense retail potential and contribute to a future driven by innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth should consider attending this event. The Mapic India Shopping Centre Summit and Awards will serve as a platform for participants to explore the critical strategies and innovative approaches required to unlock this immense potential and thrive in the dynamic retail environment of the future.”
Unsold Affordable Housing Down 19% in Top 7 Cities in Q1 2025, Luxury Stock Up 24%
Mumbai, 14 April 2025: Affordable housing took a major hit post-pandemic as buyers in this segment adopted a cautious approach, with new supply and sales plummeting in recent years. But latest ANAROCK research highlights a promising trend – unsold inventory in the affordable housing segment (<INR 40 lakh) fell by 19% across the top 7 cities in the past year, from 1.40 lakh units (Q1 2024-end) to 1.13 lakh units (Q1 2025-end).
Meanwhile, luxury housing (>INR 1.5 Cr) saw a 24% surge in unsold stock, rising from 91,125 units (Q1 2024-end) to over 1.13 lakh units (Q1 2025-end), fuelled by robust demand and new supply.
City-wise, Bengaluru led the affordable category recovery with a sharp 51% drop in unsold stock, followed by Chennai’s 44% decline. Hyderabad was the only city to witness a 9% surge in its affordable housing stock in the period – to approx. 1,815 units by Q1 2025-end.
Anuj Puri, Chairman – ANAROCK Group, says, “Affordable housing faced the sharpest pandemic fallout, with sales and new launches shrinking in the top 7 cities. ANAROCK data shows that affordable housing sales share plummeted from 38% in 2019 to 18% in 2024, while its supply share dropped from 40% to 16% in the same period. However, a 19% dip in unsold stock hints at sustained demand led by end-users.”
“In contrast, luxury housing soared, with its sales share rising from 7% in 2019 to 26% in 2024, and new supply share doubling from 11% to 26%,” says Puri. “Nevertheless, the segment saw unsold inventory pile up due to increased supply and cautious investor sentiment amid the ongoing global economic uncertainty. Our data shows that unsold stock of luxury housing – units priced over INR 1.5 Cr – rose 24% annually from about 91,125 units by Q1 2024-end to over 1.13 lakh units by Q1 2025-end.”
Among the top 7 cities, Chennai and Pune were the only cities to see their unsold luxury stock decline in the period, by 4% and 11%, respectively. While Chennai’s current unsold luxury stock is at 2,453 units, Pune’s is at 3,668 units. NCR, MMR, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Bengaluru also saw their unsold luxury stock rise.
“The build-up of stock in luxury housing, which has been the top-performing segment in the past 2-3 years, is largely due to significant supply additions in the last one to two years,” says Puri.
Unsold Stock Across Top 7 Cities | |||
Budget Categories | Stock as of Q1 2025-end (Units) | Stock as of Q1 2024-end (Units) | % Change |
<INR 40 lakh | 1,12,744 | 1,39,905 | -19% |
INR 40 lakh – INR 80 Lakh | 1,57,741 | 1,74,572 | -10% |
INR 80 lakh – INR 1.5 Cr | 1,76,130 | 1,75,293 | 0% |
>INR 1.5 Cr | 1,13,193 | 91,125 | 24% |
Total | 5,59,808 | 5,80,895 | -4% |
City-wise Dynamics
Unsold Affordable Stock Across Top 7 Cities (<INR 40 Lakh) | |||
City | Q1 2025-end | Q1 2024-end | % Change |
NCR | 25,105 | 32,189 | -22% |
MMR | 53,942 | 60,783 | -11% |
Bangalore | 3,323 | 6,736 | -51% |
Pune | 14,686 | 20,522 | -28% |
Hyderabad | 1,815 | 1,660 | 9% |
Chennai | 1,090 | 1,946 | -44% |
Kolkata | 12,783 | 16,069 | -20% |
Total | 1,12,744 | 1,39,905 | -19% |
As of Q1 2025-end, a cumulative total of approx. 5,59,808 units are unsold across the top 7 cities. Of this, approx. 1,12,744 units fall in the affordable housing category; the luxury segment has approx. 1,13,193 unsold units. Together, each of these two segments account for almost 20% of the total unsold stock.
- In MMR, unsold affordable housing stock declined 11% between Q1 2024 and Q1 2025, while luxury stock rose by 6% in the period
- NCR saw a 22% decline in its unsold affordable stock, while luxury stock swelled by over 78%
- Bengaluru saw its affordable stock decline by 51% and its luxury stock rise by 57% in the period
- Chennai saw an over 44% yearly decline in unsold affordable stock and a 4% reduction in luxury stock
- Pune saw an almost 28% annual dip in its unsold affordable stock, and a 11% decline in luxury stock
- In Kolkata, unsold affordable housing stock declined by 20%, while luxury stock rose by 96%
- Hyderabad was the only city to see its unsold affordable stock jump by 9%, while its luxury stock increased by 6%