Khallal: A Journey Through Love, Loss, and Silence Stuns Delhi Audience

New Delhi— Checkmate Production took the stage by storm with the debut of its deeply evocative drama Khallal, directed by Nikki Narulaa, at Akshara Theatre, New Delhi. This soul-stirring production explored the delicate intricacies of a 15-year marriage, weaving a compelling narrative of passion, betrayal, separation, and the haunting silence that emerges in relationships once full of love and connection. With its seamless blend of Urdu, Shayari, and Ghazals, Khallal struck an emotional chord with audiences, making it a powerful experience for anyone who has loved, lost, or grappled with the complexities of letting go.

At the core of Khallal is the poignant story of Amir and Amayra, a couple navigating the painful dissolution of their long-standing bond. Through masterful storytelling, the production delves into the fragility of love, the weight of regret, and the silence that replaces intimacy when relationships unravel.

Performed in two shows at 4:00 PM and 6:30 PM, Khallal left an indelible impact on a packed audience of over 200 attendees. Tickets sold out quickly, with many unable to secure seats, highlighting the production’s immense popularity and appeal.

A Stellar Cast Brings Khallal to Life

The success of Khallal lay in its deeply immersive performances by a talented cast, whose chemistry and intensity transported the audience into the lives of its characters:

  • Amir, portrayed with remarkable depth by Tahsin Zahid, embodied a man torn between remorse and longing. Zahid’s powerful performance highlighted the vulnerability and complexity of a character grappling with the consequences of his actions.
  • Amayra, played by the graceful Nikki Narulaa, served as the emotional anchor of the story. Her portrayal of a resilient woman confronting heartbreak resonated profoundly with audiences, showcasing the strength required to endure silence and loss.
  • Ayaan, brought to life by Baskar Krishna, added intrigue and nuance to the narrative. As a subtle yet pivotal force in the unraveling of Amir and Amayra’s relationship, Ayaan enriched the story with complexity and depth.

The seamless chemistry between the actors heightened the emotional intensity of the production, making Khallal an unforgettable experience. Through their performances, the echoes of a love once vibrant but now lost took center stage, leaving the audience deeply moved.

A Remarkable Debut

As its inaugural production, Khallal established Checkmate Production as a significant new presence in the theater community. The drama was lauded for its impeccable direction, masterful performances, and an atmospheric interplay of sound and visuals that brought the story’s emotional essence to life.

Looking Ahead

With Khallal, Checkmate Production has set a high bar for future endeavors. This houseful debut production not only left a lasting impression on its audience but also demonstrated the company’s potential to deliver more thought-provoking and artistically rich performances.

For those who missed this remarkable show, the hope remains that Amir and Amayra’s story will return to the stage, giving more theater enthusiasts an opportunity to witness this exceptional production.

Taneira’s Brand Film Celebrates Craftsmanship with Usha Uthup & Mrunal Thakur

Chandigarh, 28th January, 2025: Taneira, a TATA product has unveiled its first-ever brand campaign, a strategic initiative designed to reinforce its core promises of Trust, Authenticity, Purity, Craftsmanship, Diverse Indian Weaves Under One Roof. The campaign features the legendary Usha Uthup, well-known for her deep love for sarees, alongside the graceful Mrunal Thakur. Together, they bring alive the brand’s dedication to preserving and promoting the textile heritage of the country while empowering consumers to make informed choices. The campaign highlights the timeless elegance of handwoven sarees and the stories they carry, reaffirming Taneira as the ultimate destination for those seeking sarees unequivocally rich in both tradition and trend.

The film unfolds within a vibrant Taneira store, where Mrunal Thakur is seen draping a stunning pure silk saree and seeking the ‘expert’ opinion of Usha Uthup. What follows is an interaction laced with playful exchanges that are a slice of everyday life and resonates with every ardent saree shopper. Their conversation adds a touch of charm while addressing common concerns that many consumers have, from choosing the right fabric to gauging the authenticity of a saree. Through a series of delightful moments, the film underscores the unique qualities of Taneira Sarees, such as pure silk credentials, proudly certified with the Silk Mark tag, to their intricately handwoven designs crafted by master artisans from across the country. It brings to life the enduring allure of these pieces while reassuring consumers that Taneira offers transparency, authenticity, and craftsmanship they can trust.

Sharing her thoughts on this campaign, singer Usha Uthup expressed, “For me, sarees are not just a part of my attire, they are a part of my personal identity. Taneira’s commitment to preserving the art of saree weaving while embracing contemporary design interpretations mirrors my own values of celebrating cultural legacy and individual expression. It is truly special to be involved with a brand that celebrates the timeless beauty of sarees, while making them accessible to women who value both style and meaning in their wardrobe.”

At the heart of the narrative lies the breathtaking ‘Mor design’ Banarasi saree, adorned with over a hundred intricately woven peacocks. This masterpiece spotlights Taneira’s ability to bring unique yet timeless designs to life through unmatched craftsmanship of India’s weaving traditions.

Uthup added, “This partnership feels like a natural extension of my long-standing love for sarees and my passion to support artisans whose craft deserves to be cherished and shared with the world”.

Speaking on the launch of the campaign, Mr. Ambuj Narayan, CEO, Taneira, said “At Taneira, our goal is to offer authenticity with transparency, all at a price that reflects value, while telling the stories of the hands that painstakingly bring each piece to life. We are dedicated to celebrating the seamless blend of heritage and modernity, and this campaign embodies that vision by bringing to life the rich legacy of Indian textiles at the heart of what Taneira represents. It has been an honor to collaborate with a legend like Usha Uthup and the very gracious Mrunal Thakur to tell this story and inspire a deeper connection with the artistry behind every Taneira saree”.

Speaking about the association, actress Mrunal Thakur said, “It has been my pleasure to be a part of this campaign with Taneira and a living legend, Usha Uthup Ma’am. Over the past year, my collaborations with Taneira have been truly enriching. Not only have I been privileged to experience their differentiated designs, but also the diverse crafts they embody. Every collaboration has deepened my appreciation for the sarees and stories they tell. This campaign perfectly captures that journey and feels incredibly meaningful as it aligns with my own fashion philosophy”.

Puneet Kapoor, Chief Creative Officer, Ogilvy South – “Taneira set out to showcase its value propositions to both new saree enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs. We asked ourselves some tough questions: Can a brand withstand the scrutiny of the most knowledgeable customers—those who might know as much, if not more, about sarees than we do? While Mrunal has long been the elegant face of Taneira, the real triumph was bringing on the iconic Usha Uthup, the undisputed goddess of sarees in India. This dynamic duo infused our story with charm, entertainment, and emotion, offering a compelling spin on the essence of our value propositions.”

ACC demonstrates remarkable performance in Q3 FY’25

Chandigarh, 27 January 2025: ACC Limited, the cement and building materials company of the diversified Adani Portfolio today announced a steady financial performance during the third quarter and nine months (9M) of FY’25 ended December 31, 2024. The performance comes on the back of volume growth, cost optimisation and improved efficiency parameters.

Mr. Ajay Kapur, Whole Time Director & CEO, ACC Ltd, said, “Our Q3 results demonstrate our strategic focus on driving growth through higher volumes, cost optimisation, and enhanced efficiencies. With strong demand for our premium cement products, and our commitment to excellence on all parameters in line with our ESG leadership, we are leveraging innovation and sustainability to maintain our competitive edge and maximise stakeholder value. We are well-poised to achieve sustained profitability and capitalise on our strategic vision set forth for our business.”

Operational Highlights

  • The engines of efficiency drive, cost initiative and investments to overhaul all plants has delivered phenomenal results on overall cost reduction and volume improvements.
  • All business KPIs like volumes, efficiencies, cost and capex have shown healthy improvements, reinforcing cost leadership journey.
  • Volume increased by 21% YoY supported by increase in trade volumes and higher premium product volumes (11% YoY), ensuring market leadership.
  • Optimised Fuel Basket, with use of low cost imported petcoke improved linkage and captive coal consumption and synergies with Group companies have resulted in 10% reduction in Kiln fuel cost Rs. 1.86 to Rs. 1.68 per ’000 Kcal.
  • Thermal value reduced from 739 kCal to 732 kCal, expect further improvement in coming quarters.
  • Logistics costs reduced by 9% @Rs 939/ton, driven by efficiency improvement journey (Secondary lead reducing by 3 Km, direct dispatch up by 7 pp @51%). Through various freight negotiation initiatives, road PTPK has decreased by 6% YOY. This is going to be further reduced with roll out of initiatives viz. wheeler rationalisations, BCFC rakes etc.
Particulars (YoY) Q3 FY’25 9M FY’25
Sales Volume

(Clinker & Cement)

 Growth of 21% YoY, at 10.7 Mn T, highest ever volume in a quarter Growth of 15% YoY, at 30.3 Mn T, highest ever volume in nine months
Kiln Fuel

Cost

 Reduced by 10%

(Rs. 1.86 to Rs. 1.68/’000 kCal)

 Reduced by 15%

(Rs. 1.95 to Rs.1.67/’000 kCal)
Green Power as a % of power Consumption Increased by

5.7 pp to 18.7%

 Increased by

2.2 pp to 15.6%
AFR consumption in Kiln Increased by

0.4 pp to 9.6%

 Increased by

1.9 pp to 10.4%

Financial Highlights

  • Highest ever revenue in Q3 Series over last 5 years at Rs. 5,927 Cr, driven by higher trade sales volume (up by 11%) and premium product as % of trade sales at 32%.
  • Higher volume along with improved operational parameters resulted in growth in all business parameters.
  • Operating EBITDA at Rs. 1,116 Cr, EBITDA margin at 18.8%.
  • Cash & Cash equivalent at Rs. 2,526 Cr, with highest ever Net Worth at Rs. 17,816 Cr, up by Rs. 1,091 Cr during the current quarter
  • EPS (Diluted) at Rs. 58.0 during the quarter.

Financial Performance for the Quarter ended December 31, 2024:

Particulars UoM Q3 FY’25 Q3 FY’24
Sales Volume

(Cement and Clinker)

 Million

Tonnes

 10.7 8.9
Sales Volume
Ready Mix Concrete		 Million M3 0.71 0.66
Revenue from Operations Rs. Cr 5,927 4,914
Operating EBITDA & Margin Rs. Cr 1,116 905
% 18.8 18.4
Rs. PMT 1,038 1,017
Other Income Rs. Cr 648 86
Profit before Tax Rs. Cr 1,477 729
Profit after Tax Rs. Cr 1,092 538
EPS (Diluted) Rs. / Share 58.0 28.6

Financial Performance for nine months ended December 31, 2024: 

Particulars UoM 9M FY’25 9M FY’24
Sales Volume

(Cement and Clinker)

 Million

Tonnes

 30.3 26.4
Sales Volume
Ready Mix Concrete		 Million M3 2.00 2.07
Revenue from Operations Rs. Cr 15,696 14,550
Operating EBITDA & Margin Rs. Cr 2,231 2,225
% 14.2 15.3
Rs. PMT 737 841
Other Income Rs. Cr 879 373
Profit before Tax Rs Cr 2,245 1,874
Profit after Tax Rs. Cr 1,651 1,392
EPS (Diluted) Rs. / Share 87.7 73.9

ESG Updates

  • 200 MW Solar Power at Khavda started, will lead to reduction in power cost in upcoming quarters.
  • Committed to Net Zero by 2050, with ACC and Ambuja Cements being the only 2 cement companies in India undergoing Net Zero target validation from SBTi.
  • Became member of United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), a global initiative to implement universal sustainability principles.
  • Undertaken noteworthy initiatives on renewable power, water conservation, circular economy, TSR, tree plantation along with high share of blended cement in product mix.
  • Created societal value for over 1.22 lakhs people by contributing to fields like healthcare, education, employment, and sustainable livelihoods.
  • Range of innovative products, including ACC ECOMaxX, ACC AEROMaxX, and ACC Coolcrete, continues to expand, adding to the wide array of eco-friendly options.

Branding and Technical Services

  • Partnered with the Gujarat Giants in Pro Kabaddi League Season 11, one of India’s premier sports leagues.
  • ACC Certified Technology implemented at 37,214 customer sites, making their homes stronger.
  • Trained 10,300+ Contractors under various skill upgradation workshops with 3,300+ plant visits, aimed at deeper understanding of our products.
  • Launched thematic Ad films for Durga Puja and Diwali reflecting the festive fervour of our customers and partners.
  • Various knowledge sharing technical events conducted for 6,300+ construction professionals.

Digitalisation

  • Launched ‘RewardsConnect’, a rewards hub loyalty portal, enabling pan-India online reward point redemption for contractors.
  • Deployed OT Security Monitoring solution for real-time monitoring of OT systems strengthening cybersecurity.
  • Completed Asia’s largest legacy SAP upgrade to Suite on HANA.
  • Implemented Electronic Proof of Delivery system, improving invoicing efficiency and reducing processing/documentation cost.

Outlook

The cement sector experienced modest growth of 1.5-2% during H1 FY’25. Looking ahead, cement demand is expected to rebound in Q4 FY’25 as construction activity accelerates in the infrastructure and housing segments. The pro-infra and housing Budget 2025, along with increased government spending on infrastructure and construction activities, is anticipated to further support this growth. Cement demand is projected to grow in the range of 4-5% for FY’25.

Achievements

  • Gold at the Arogya World Healthy Workplace Awards 2024.
  • IconSWM-CE Excellence Award 2024 for excellence in co-processing and AFR.

Republic Day Sale Trends by Unicommerce

28th January 2024,Mumbai: During the year’s first online sale event, the Republic Day sale, Unicommerce witnessed over 16 mn transactions processed by marketplaces and D2C brands through its platform over the 14-day event, which started on the 13th of January 2025.

The top performing categories during the sale period were health & pharma with over 80% YoY order volume growth, followed by home decor with 35% growth and beauty, wellness & personal care recording a 16% growth in volumes as compared to the sale period last year. This surge reflects the enthusiasm of consumers at the very start of the year.

Driven by compelling deals and marketing campaigns, marketplaces observed a notable 16% year-on-year (YoY) growth in order items during the period. In contrast, D2C brand websites saw a modest YoY growth of over 5% during the same period.

A large share of the demand was from towns like Lucknow, Jaipur, Patna, Coimbatore, Surat, Kolar, Alwar, Rohtak, Kamrup and Gandhinagar.

Products that attracted higher demand and recorded significant growth included makeup products, home decor & furniture items and travel accessories. While tier-1 and metropolitan cities led growth across toys & baby products and gaming accessories, tier-2 and tier-3 towns saw higher demand for perfumes & deodorants, and health devices.

The share of prepaid orders in e-commerce continues to rise across tier-2, tier-3 cities and beyond regions. During this year’s sale period, the market share of prepaid orders in the fashion and accessories category grew from 23.9% to 25.1%. Similarly, the health & pharma category witnessed higher prepaid orders with their share rising from 8.4% in 2024 to 14% in 2025. The volume of prepaid orders across beauty, wellness and personal care also grew from 20.7% to 21.4% in 2025.

With the rise of regional warehousing across smaller suburban towns and the growing adoption of technology in these regions, the e-commerce industry is unlocking connectivity, reaching previously untapped areas. This, in turn, supports brands and e-commerce platforms to fulfil consumer demand across the hinterland of Bharat.

As of Q2 2025, Unicommerce serves 3600+ clients including D2C brands, retail and e-commerce companies as well as logistics provider firms. With 260+ technology & partner integrations, the company has achieved an annual transaction run rate of 850+ million order items managing 8800+ warehouses and 3150+ omni-enabled stores across geographies. Shipway by Unicommerce, the company’s logistics automation arm, enables automated shipping for faster fulfillment, serving more than 12,000+ online brands.

Thai Brands Exhibition 2025 Concludes Successfully in Chennai

Chennai, January 28, 2025: The Top Thai Brands Exhibition 2025, organized by the Thai Trade Center, Chennai, concluded on a high note after a successful three-day run at Express Avenue Mall from January 24 to 26. The event showcased Thailand’s finest products, innovations, and cultural heritage, attracting a large number of visitors.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Mr. Racha Aribarg, Consul General of Thailand to Chennai, and Mr. Chek Jeenaphan, Director of Thai Trade Center, Chennai. With over 30 Thai brands participating, the expo highlighted diverse industries, including fashion, food, beauty, and design. Attendees experienced Thailand’s craftsmanship, from traditional handicrafts to modern tech solutions, reinforcing the country’s strong presence in the global market.

Smriti Irani Champions Gender Equality at Davos 2025

Mumbai, 28th January 2025: Smriti Irani, Chairperson of the Alliance for Global Good Gender Equity and Equality, emerged as a transformative force, leading several key initiatives on Gender Equity and Equality agenda at Davos along the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2025, championing gender equity as a critical driver of global economic growth and social progress.

With an agenda grounded in actionable solutions, Ms. Irani’s leadership at the summit highlighted the moral imperative of gender parity and showcased its undeniable business case. Through a series of high-profile engagements with world leaders, industry titans, and media influencers, Ms. Irani advocated for embedding gender equity into global economic frameworks. Her narrative was clear and resonant: Gender equity is more than a societal aspiration; it is an economic necessity capable of unlocking trillions in global GDP.

In a pivotal meeting with Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Ms. Irani discussed innovative policy frameworks, including gender-responsive trade agreements and integrating women entrepreneurs into global value chains. This dialogue laid the groundwork for collaborative solutions, leveraging Singapore’s policy expertise and the Alliance’s grassroots momentum.

An impactful meeting with Bill Gates further reinforced the Alliance’s mission to create systemic change. The duo explored collaborative approaches to dismantle barriers in healthcare, digital skilling, and leadership. Mr. Gates expressed strong support for the Alliance’s data-driven strategy, emphasizing scalable solutions with measurable impact.

Ms. Irani’s meeting with Børge Brende, President of WEF, marked a reflective moment, highlighting the Alliance’s achievements since its inception in 2024. She emphasized milestones such as the Commonwealth Partnership for gender-inclusive programs and the SAWIE (South Asian Women in Energy) initiative, a collaborative effort to amplify women’s leadership in the energy sector.

Ms. Smriti Irani’s leadership shone brightly during WEF sessions that seamlessly combined data-driven insights with human stories of resilience. The session “Women at the Fulcrum of Global Economies,” moderated by Ms. Smriti Irani and co-hosted by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation highlighted women’s control of 50% of global wealth by 2030 and the importance of tapping their potential by integrating women into the workforce, with data suggesting it could contribute an additional $1.6–$2.3 trillion to global GDP.

At the Alliance’s flagship “We-Lead Lounge,” Ms. Smriti Irani convened global stakeholders to address critical gaps in leadership and representation across technology, healthcare, and sustainability. The discussions, ranging from the future of work to women’s role in climate action, yielded commitments to skilling initiatives and gender-inclusive policies.

A hallmark of Ms. Irani’s strategy was her focus on measurable impact. Collaborations with corporate leaders like Naspers CEO Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa and Salesforce SVP Naomi Morenzoni emphasized equipping women with digital skills to lead in emerging sectors such as technology and e-commerce. These discussions laid the foundation for long-term initiatives aimed at integrating women into the digital economy.

Ms. Smriti Irani also prioritized healthcare advancements, partnering with organizations like GAVI and the Coalition for Health Innovation and Collaboration (CHIC) to expand access for underserved women globally.

Recognizing the power of media in driving systemic change, Ms. Irani collaborated with TIME Magazine’s Viktoria Degtar and others to amplify women’s leadership stories. These efforts aimed to ensure that women’s contributions resonate globally, shifting narratives and creating inclusive platforms for recognition. At Davos 2025, Smriti Irani demonstrated a results-oriented approach to fostering sustainable, inclusive growth. Her leadership cemented the Alliance’s position as a global catalyst for gender equity, setting a pragmatic, scalable model for economic and social transformation.

Radisson Hotel Group Joins Simon & Schuster India to Celebrate Literature

In a world where travelers increasingly seek experiences that go beyond traditional luxury, the hospitality industry is witnessing a shift toward cultural and intellectual enrichment. Modern travelers are looking for more than just premium accommodations, extending to unique, immersive concepts that embrace personal growth, creativity, and meaningful connections. As a result, the demand for offerings that integrate culture, art, literature, and lifestyle has never been higher, setting a new standard for what travel can offer.

Bringing this vision to life, Radisson Hotel Group is excited to announce its partnership with Simon & Schuster India, one of the world’s leading publishing houses. This collaboration will position The Group’s hotels as a destination for intellectual and cultural pursuits, offering guests exclusive literary experiences across its properties in South Asia. Together, the partnership aims to inspire travellers by blending quality accommodations with the timeless appeal of literature and creativity.

As part of the partnership, Literary Escapes will feature dedicated spaces within the Radisson Hotel Group portfolio where a series of thoughtfully curated literary activities, including book lounges, pop-up libraries, author meet-and-greets, and book signings will be hosted. Guests can immerse in engaging literary retreats featuring some of Simon & Schuster’s most celebrated authors, whose works span fiction, non-fiction, and children’s literature. These immersive experiences will provide guests with opportunities to connect with literature in stylish, comfortable settings, making each stay memorable and enriching.

“At Radisson Hotel Group, we recognize that literature has always been a trusted companion for travelers, offering inspiration, reflection, and connection on every journey. Building on this timeless bond, our collaboration with Simon & Schuster India introduces Literary Escapes—an initiative that reimagines the traveler’s relationship with books. By combining our exceptional destinations with thoughtfully curated literary experiences, we aim to transform every stay into an immersive journey of creativity, relaxation, and discovery. This partnership reflects our commitment to enhancing guest experiences, offering moments of rejuvenation and intellectual engagement that go beyond traditional hospitality.” said, Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director and Area Senior Vice President, Radisson Hotel Group South Asia

“It is a huge credit to Radisson Hotel Group and Simon & Schuster India that Literary Escapes is being launched. It speaks to the importance of understanding that the world of books is a world of reading experiences, an opportunity for connection, empathy and escape. We are incredibly proud to be supporting a partnership which will see many more readers enjoying Simon & Schuster books in inspiring surroundings.” said Polly Osborn, Publishing Strategy & Communications Director, Simon & Schuster UK

The partnership creates valuable opportunities for both brands to amplify their visibility and engage with a broader, more diverse audience. Radisson Hotel Group will strengthen its connection with a growing demographic of experiential travellers, while Simon & Schuster will be able to tap a diverse pool of travellers eager to explore their portfolio of authors and books. By combining their global influence and audience bases, the two brands aim to deliver meaningful, culturally enriching moments through storytelling and immersive cultural moments tailored for modern travellers.

Radisson Hotel Group continues to command a leading presence in the Indian market and is one of the country’s largest international hotel operators with over 194 hotels in operation and development. It continues to be the largest hotel operator in a tier-1 market like Delhi NCR, while over 50% of its portfolio is in tier-2 and 3 markets. With hotels in over 114 destinations across India, Radisson Hotel Group has properties located within a 4-hour drive of each other. The Group has successfully introduced various brands to the growing Indian market, including Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Park Inn by Radisson, Park Plaza, Park Inn & Suites by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and Radisson Individuals and its extension Radisson Individuals Retreats.

Agriculture Delegations Visit Heartfulness Institute for Knowledge Sharing

Mumbai / Hyderabad, 28 January 2025: Two delegations from the World Agriculture Forum (WAF) and ICFA (Indian Chamber of Food and Agriculture) visited Kanha Shanti Vanam – the largest meditation centre in the world and the headquarters of Heartfulness in the outskirts of Hyderabad for three days between 25-27 January. The WAF delegation was led by Dr MJ Khan, Special Advisor to WAF Board, and President- Agriculture Today Group. The ICFA delegation was led by Ms. Shreyasi Agarwal, Chief Executive Officer, ICFA. The purpose of the visit was to have knowledge transfer between Heartfulness Institute and the visiting organisations. Heartfulness Institute is a forerunner of sustainability in agriculture and has been adopting and practising the ancient wisdom in agriculture intertwined with modern methods in agriculture. Heartfulness Institute offers training in agriculture and sustainability to farming communities periodically.

Dr. MJ Khan, Special Advisor to WAF Board said during the tour of the facility at Kanha Shanti Vanam, “This is a wonderful place. I am very impressed by what Heartfulness is doing at Kanha Shanti Vanam for transforming the desert into centre of excellence in agriculture.” He added that this model can be adopted by many countries in the World who are facing the challenge of increasing desertification, citing the concerns flagged by the world leaders at the UN-COP 16 on Desertification in Riyadh last month. “It is a very good blend of creativity, science and ancient wisdom that Kanha Shanti Vanam has perfected, which the world can take advantage of,” said Dr Khan, while proposing that WAF will support Kanha efforts to bring COPCCD World Congress here. This institution is protecting the endangered plant species and propagating them. They are also growing the kinds of plants that we all need at one place to spread greening cover in the desert lands. It is a quite an example of a strong ecosystem. WAF would be keen to work together and set up its representation at the Kanha Vanam to bring global expertise and also global delegations.

“This is one of the most exhilarating experiences we have had in any of our knowledge transfer programmes. Heartfulness Institute has indeed shown to the world what can be achieved through a proper scientific and spiritual approach in reviving the lost flora and also applying technical know-how in raising the agricultural yield,” said Shreyasi Agarwal, CEO, ICFA. “To see a rainforest right in the middle of an arid land is quite something and Heartfulness has achieved all this in a few years with the strong inclination for social good,” added Shreyasi Agarwal.

Mr. Suresh Prabhu – Chairman, ICFA Board and former Union Minister, who had earlier visited the Heartfulness Institute reminisced, “Heartfulness Institute is creating a huge impact on the way we look at agriculture now. The blend of spirituality and agriculture is very evident here at how with the right attitude and scientific knowledge plants can get a new lease of life. This is exemplary in rejuvenating the flora, raising an rainforest and helping out the farming communities.” Mr. Prabhu offered to collaborate for the two organisations to work together on key challenges to our farmers and food production in context of the challenge of climate change and the need of Indian agriculture. Mr. Prabhu said that ICFA would be happy to work on Biochar project and rural entrepreneurship development, besides sustainable agriculture initiatives. He also agreed for ICFA to sign MoU to have regional office hosted here to work closely on sustainable agriculture.

Rev. Daaji – Guide of Heartfulness and President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission said, “We are very pleased to host the esteemed guests from WAF and ICFA. As India is soaring on the technological front, we also need to hold on to some of our traditional knowledge in farming. Our rishis and ancestors would connect spirituality to agriculture. And it makes a big difference in the attitude and the consciousness with which one sows the seeds and anticipates the yield by invoking the Gods. It is essentially way of surrender and yet doing one’s Purusharth in applying the right means and irrigate with patience until it is time to harvest. What Heartfulness has also done is intertwine the ancient wisdom with the state-of-the-art mechanisms of agriculture which we want to share with the prospective agriculturalists.”

The two-day visit by the delegation is expected to bring more awareness and exchange of knowledge between the visiting organisations and Heartfulness in scaling up agricultural products, empower the farming communities, grow green cover and above all make India self-reliant as a predominantly agrarian country.

In the past Heartfulness Institute also signed MoU with ICAR (Indian Council for Agricultural Research) and AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education) to bring about awareness on consciousness in education and knowledge-transfer.

Blum REVEGO Pocket systems for new space concepts

Blum’s REVEGO, the new pocket system, provides a seamless solution for large cabinet fronts, concealed kitchen units, and complete living areas as per your needs. This innovative design not only offers versatile options but also ensures easy planning and assembly, enhancing overall usability.

More and more people are combining their kitchen, dining, living, and working areas into one contemporary open-plan space. With increasing urbanisation and more densely populated metropolitan areas, the living spaces of the future are also likely to be smaller. The pocket systems from Blum open up brand-new opportunities; the ability to quickly open up complete living areas when you need them and simply close them off again helps to create a homely atmosphere. This brings completely new design possibilities for rooms, both big and small. The new pocket systems product category is characterised by the ease of use that is synonymous with Blum: with the TIP-ON motion technology, users open cabinet doors with the lightest of touches and slide them away completely into the pocket. The kitchen workspace, home office, and laundry room are now easily accessible. To close off the space, the user simply presses the door to release it from the pocket and then presses it again to elegantly conceal the entire area. When they are closed, the doors conceal the furniture units, including their pockets, making REVEGO the ideal solution for the multifunctional use of space.

What makes pocket systems so innovative? The unique one-touch door system for single and double-door applications is impressive, not least thanks to its fully integrated technology and ease of integration into the kitchen layout or furniture units. The smart fixed-width cabinet solution can also be easily incorporated into plans featuring standard cabinets: pocket widths are 100 mm for the single-door REVEGO uno and 150 mm for the double-door REVEGO duo. When it comes to design, the solution offers plenty of room for manoeuvre: the single doors can be 450 to 900 mm wide, and the double doors can be 450 to 750 mm wide, as well as 1800 to 2500 mm high. The pocket systems can also be produced and pre-assembled by the manufacturer for delivery to the place of installation. Final assembly on site is therefore simplicity itself: put up, align, and mount the pockets; install the doors and track; make any final adjustments; and that’s it!

Blum’s REVEGO product innovations have earned the prestigious Red Dot Award for outstanding design in 2022. The distinctive pocket door system captured the attention and admiration of the jury due to its seamlessly integrated technology and exceptional design quality. The unique features and excellent design of REVEGO make it stand out, earning it this prestigious design award. The fully integrated technology not only showcases innovation but also underscores the commitment to excellence in both form and function. This recognition reaffirms Blum’s dedication to delivering cutting-edge solutions that seamlessly blend advanced technology with superior design aesthetics.

Godrej Launches ‘GEEVEES Awards 2025’ for Design Excellence

Chandigarh, 28 January 2025: The Locks and Architectural Solutions, a business unit of Godrej Enterprises Group, a name synonymous with trust, quality is pleased to announce the launch of the fourth season of the GEEVEES Awards 2025, a platform dedicated to recognizing innovation and excellence in architecture and interior design. The award has been conceived as an extension of the Godrej Value Co-Creators Club (GVCC) that was launched by the brand in 2021. Currently, there are over 2100+ architects who are part of this incentive program.

This year’s awards feature 15 categories, providing a platform to showcase outstanding projects across residential, commercial, institutional, and hospitality spaces. With eligibility limited to completed projects from November 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the GEEVEES Awards aim to acknowledge and celebrate the creativity shaping the design industry.

Important Dates to Remember:

  • Submission Deadline: January 31, 2025
  • Finalists Announcement: February 7, 2025
  • Live Jury Presentations: February 13–14, 2025
  • Winners Announced: March 8, 2025

The GEEVEES Awards 2025 celebrate visionaries in the design and construction industry who demonstrate creativity, environmental responsibility, and a commitment to enhancing community safety. The theme “Sustainability” reflects the commitment of Locks and Architectural Solutions, a business unit of the Godrej Enterprises Group, to fostering a culture of safety and sustainable practices.

Looking forward to the GEEVEES Awards 2025, Mr. Shyam Motwani, Executive Vice President & Business Head, Locks and Architectural Solutions, part of Godrej Enterprises Group, said, we’re delighted to return with the fourth season of the GEEVEES Awards. This platform is not just a celebration of architectural and design excellence but also a reflection of our deep respect for the creativity and innovation within the fraternity. We are proud to provide a platform that brings together architects and designers, offering them an opportunity to showcase their innovative work across 15 diverse categories. With over 2,100+ architects in our Godrej Value Co-Creators Club and more than 4,000+ entries already submitted; we look forward to seeing more outstanding projects that set new benchmarks in design excellence.”

The distinguished jury for the awards includes some of the most eminent names in the field of architecture and design. The panel features Sonali Bhagwati, Partner at DPA; Ratan Batliboi, Principal Architect at Ratan J. Batliboi Consultants; Dr. Oscar G. Concessao and Dr. Ponni M. Concessao, Principal Architects at Oscar & Ponni Architects; Karl Wadia, Senior Design Principal at Architect Hafeez Contractor; Suchrita Joshi, Senior Architect at Godwin Austen Johnson; Tushar Sogani, Principal Architect & Managing Director at TSDPL; and Abhigyan Neogi, Principal & Founder of Chromed Design Studio, Abin Chaudhuri, Founder & principal, Abin Design Studio, Sarabjit Singh, Principal at Interior Design & Fab Studio, Prasenjit Sanyal, Proprioter at Subhashree Design Cell Rashmi Tiwari, Principal Designer at Tathaastu Interiors, Rahul Tyagi, Managing director at RTA, Sandeep Shikre, Principal Architect at Sandeep Shikre & Associates their collective expertise and vision promises to bring unparalleled insight and fair evaluation.

Entries are open across 15 categories, including Safest Projects and Healthcare for Architecture.

Winners will be recognized during a dedicated award ceremony in March 2025, with their achievements highlighted across various Godrej Locks platforms, further amplifying their impact within the community.

The GEEVEES Awards 2025 invite practicing architects and interior designers to participate, offering an opportunity to present their work to a jury of experienced professionals from India and beyond. This initiative reflects Locks and Architectural Solutions’ commitment to fostering creativity and supporting professionals in the architecture and design fields.

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