To be exclusively managed by Musee Musical

Adyar Chennai, 28th March 2025: Yamaha, The Automobile and Music/Audio giant, one of the world’s leading brands has opened its 2^nd premium exclusive showroom in Chennai Tamil Nadu. This step brings Yamaha closer to its aim of making the studio facilities and equipment available to all upcoming musicians in the state. This initiative also underscores the shared commitment to empowering the nation’s youth to the best quality of music training under the guidance of some of the most renowned music trainers in the region. 

The Yamaha Music Square has already expanded to a total of 26 stores across India; this will be its 2^nd in the state of Chennai taking the total to 27, contributing to this initiative with an extensive reach.  Yamaha also plans to expand Music Square in the near future to vacant and potential regions.  A unique feature that will set the studio apart from every other place will be the option of live demos of each music instrument for every music enthusiast.

Yamaha has entered into an exclusive tie-up with the renowned Musee Musical, a historic music store in Chennai that is in its 183^rd year. The tie-up includes Musee Musical managing the Music Store and extending all their services to customers in the area. Musee Musical brings its expertise in understanding the needs of customers with regard to musical instruments and training. This is a new business model that is being undertaken and promises the best of the expertise of both companies to discerning customers in Chennai.

In India, there is a boundary to the extent of talent we possess and to promote and identify such talent, Yamaha has pledged to expand this initiative. The Company aims to strategically focus and build more infrastructural facilities and projects to efficiently cater the public and develop the segment in the region.

REHAN SIDDIQUI SAN (Deputy General Manager) Yamaha said, “This development is aimed at upgrading the talent pool of the youth in India and also to provide the best quality instruments in the region. We at Yamaha are committed towards excellence in technology and quality, this initiative will provide a platform to music students to enhance their skills and gets access to world class training in the world of Audio.

Training and product workshop will also be conducted by Musee Musical in the first 30 days.

Experience the confluence of traditional technique and contemporary flavours with an exclusive five-day pop up.

(New Delhi, March 2025) Shangri-La Eros New Delhi presents a unique culinary experience at Sorrento, its award-winning Italian restaurant, with the renowned Chef Pasqualino Barbasso from Palermo, Italy, for an exclusive five-day showcase from 19 to 23 March 2025.

Bringing two decades of unparalleled expertise with him, Chef Barbasso’s journey from mastering traditional preparation techniques to becoming a global ambassador of Italy’s most loved cuisine culminates in this rare showcase.

Chef Pasqualino is among the most skilful masters of acrobatic pizza-making. In the last 10 years, Pasqualino has travelled around the world offering his stunning performances to enhance the

quality and the good taste of Italian pizza, made according to true Italian traditions. In fact, Pasqualino Barbasso began his career in his family’s Pizzeria, Il Falco Azzuro, in Cammarata, in the Sicilian province of Agrigento, where he still works when he’s not travelling.

Later, he underwent formal pizza-making training. In 1998, he won the Sicily’s Acrobatic Pizza championship. By 2001, he was the World Champion. Since then, he has made dozens of appearances in Italian restaurants and pizzerias around the world. Two times Pizza Acrobatics World Champion Chef Pasqualino Barbasso can entertain crowds with his gravity-defying pizza manoeuvres.

The culinary journey Chef Barbasso brings to Sorrento spans continents and prestigious venues, making this five-day engagement a must-attend for Delhi’s connoisseurs.

The menu presented by the chef reads like a tour of Italy’s diverse regions and seasonal treasures. Seafood enthusiasts can savour the King Sea, where premium smoked salmon meets pistachio pesto and parmesan fondue, while the luxurious Bolero showcases Italy’s finest ingredients—creamy burrata, delicate bresaola, and a sophisticated merlot reduction that elevates this pizza to extraordinary heights.

The assortment demonstrates Chef’s versatility and creative vision, from the unexpected Walnut pizza featuring a decadent combination of walnut cream, pungent gorgonzola and fresh rocket leaves, to the bold Calabrese with parmesan cream. For those craving familiar comfort with a gourmet twist, the Old West delivers slow-cooked pulled chicken, caramelised onions, and BBQ sauce, proving that Chef Barbasso’s culinary prowess extends beyond Italian borders while remaining rooted in exceptional technique and quality ingredients.

The dishes will be available on à la carte selections allowing guests to fully appreciate the breadth of his culinary vision. Whether opting for an intimate lunch or a celebratory dinner, patrons will witness first-hand masterful techniques that have made Chef Barbasso a global culinary ambassador.

Indulge in Ranjit Khasa, the royal feast at ITC Royal Bengal’s signature luxury vegetarian cuisine restaurant, Royal Vega. Guided by the precepts of Ayurveda, this feast is based on the concept of eating fresh and seasonal produce in complete harmony with nature.

Drawing inspiration from the magnificent royal kitchens of India, Royal Vega offers a thoughtfully curated menu rooted in the principles of Ayurveda – the ancient science of life and well-being. The restaurant’s offerings are aligned with Ayurvedic philosophy and holistic approaches to health, focusing on fresh and seasonal produce that promotes balance and harmony with nature.

Ranjit Khasa, drawing inspiration from a royal banquet laid out by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, is curated to mark the onset of the New Year and the arrival of spring. It offers a mindfully prepared spread of exquisite dishes, deeply rooted in the traditions of India’s royal heritage. The menu features an array of carefully selected vegetarian dishes, including Madhura Tikkiya (crispy fried patties of dove-smoked beetroot stuffed with spiced hung curd, sprinkled with homemade pudina masala), Paneer Khasa (artisan handcrafted tomato-flavored paneer simmered in fresh tomato gravy, delicately spiced with fenugreek seeds), Khoya Mewa Kofteh (crisp khoya marbles stuffed with nuts, simmered in cashew and poppy seed gravy, flavored with star anise and embellished with silver leaf), Maanh (whole black urad slow-cooked overnight to perfection, lightly spiced with black cardamom, pepper, cumin, and asafoetida, served with saffron butter), and Atta Gond Halwa (a warm halwa of whole wheat and plant gum, cardamom, and garnished with silver leaf and pistachio) – to name a few.

The Ranjit Khasa menu is available per person. À la carte portions are available upon request. From carefully balanced tastes to vibrant seasonal ingredients, Ranjit Khasa promises to take you back to a majestic regal feast, offering a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Darjeeling is celebrated for its exceptional tea, steeped in rich tradition and lore. The Darjeeling Lounge at ITC Royal Bengal captures this charm, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the elegance of 1800s tea estates. This tranquil 24-hour space offers a perfect escape from the daily grind, where friends can enjoy leisurely cups of tea or fine beverages paired with gourmet bites.

Our beverage selection is thoughtfully curated, featuring not just Darjeeling tea but also the finest from Assam and China. First flush teas like Margaret’s Hope and Makaibari provide smooth, aromatic flavours reminiscent of hazelnuts and almonds. Additionally, we cater to contemporary tastes with innovative offerings like share-market chai and refreshing iced tea cocktails, making the Darjeeling Lounge a delightful stop for tea lovers.

The lounge is adorned with subtle, minimal décor and vintage furniture, with charming robin’s egg blue walls that evoke a sense of nostalgia. Among the local favourites, our Share Market Chai stands out, infusing Assam tea with bold flavours of cardamom, ginger, carom seeds, and fennel, accompanied by Gondhoraj cookies. This special brew is inspired by the street tea of Dalhousie near the Calcutta Stock Exchange, encapsulating Kolkata’s vibrant tea culture. It’s a beloved spot for both celebrities and locals, all of whom cherish the unique experience.

Experience the vibrant festival of Holi like never before with ITC Royal Bengal & ITC Sonar’s exclusive Holi Collection from Nutmeg, available from March 7th to 16th. Celebrate the season of color, love, and joy with our specially curated menu that showcases a delightful array of traditional mithai and savory snacks, perfect for enhancing your festive gatherings. At the heart of our offerings are the beloved batches of Gujiya, expertly crafted to encapsulate the essence of Holi, these classic confections are filled with a rich blend of cashew and khoya, promising a delightful taste explosion in every bite. Complementing the Gujiya is our Lavang Latika Box, also priced at ₹899+ taxes, featuring rose-infused reduced milk dumplings with exquisite hints of cardamom, elevating your sweet experience to new heights. Don’t miss out on our delectable Peda Box, These dried fig and nut-stuffed ghee-fried wheat parcels, studded with cloves, are perfect for anyone who loves a touch of indulgence during the festivities. For those who wish to explore a wider selection, our Holi Goodies Box is a splendid option., it includes a mix of 32 pieces: 8 Gujiya, 8 Lavang Latika, and 8 Peda, making it an ideal treat to share with family and friends. Elevate your celebration with our Holi Hamper This lavish compilation includes everything from the Gujiya and Lavang Latika to a generous 16 Peda, plus enticing additions like Mint n’ Chili Roasted Nuts, Kaju Ajwain Nimki, and Saunf Gud Paare. Each of these components is designed to enchant your taste buds and create an unforgettable experience that embodies the spirit of Holi. Join us in welcoming this festive season with open arms and colorful plates. Make your Holi celebrations truly special with ITC Royal Bengal & ITC Sonar’s Holi Collection—where every bite is a celebration!

A celebration of color, flavor, and legacy—brought to life with exquisite meals and handcrafted sweets

New Delhi, 4th March 2025: Festivals are woven with heritage, and cherished moments, and at the heart of it all is the joy of sharing something indulgent. As Holi brings a riot of colors and festivity to March, The Claridges New Delhi invites you to a celebration of togetherness, best enjoyed with vibrant feasts and handcrafted sweets that make every moment more special. This year, the festivities come alive with a specially curated selection of festive meals and artisanal confections, blending the richness of age-old recipes with The Claridges New Delhi’s signature refinement.

From 10th to 16th March 2025, experience a spread curated by Ye Old Bakery, Dhaba, and Tiffin by Claridges, each offering a unique take on Holi indulgence. Whether it’s a lavish meal shared with loved ones or sweets gifted as a token of joy, The Claridges ensures that Holi is celebrated with the perfect balance of flavor, warmth, and festivity.

This Holi, you can order a special festive meal at Dhaba from Tiffin by Claridges, bringing the essence of Holi straight to your home. Known for its rich, homestyle Indian flavors, Dhaba at The Claridges curates a meal that captures the festive spirit with hearty, authentic dishes prepared using time-honored techniques. From comforting curries and fragrant rice to handcrafted breads and signature appetizers, each element of the meal is a nod to India’s vibrant culinary heritage.

Holi Special Menu Highlights:

● Thandai – A refreshing, spiced milk-based drink, synonymous with Holi celebrations.
● Bhatti Ka Murg – A succulent, slow-roasted chicken dish infused with smoky flavors.
● Murg Makhani – The iconic, velvety butter chicken, rich in flavors and tradition.
● Bhangiri Ke Pakore – Crisp, spiced fritters, a perfect festive snack.
● Subz Tawa Jalfrezi – A vibrant medley of stir-fried seasonal vegetables with bold spices.
● Dal Dhaba – A signature, slow-cooked lentil preparation, rich and comforting.
● Mathura Ke Pede & Gujiya – Traditional sweets that add a touch of nostalgia to the celebrations

Whether you’re hosting a Holi gathering or enjoying an intimate celebration with your loved ones, the Holi special meal is available for delivery and takeaway, ensuring you can savor a lavish spread without leaving the comfort of your home.

Chef Ankur Gulati, Executive Chef at The Claridges New Delhi, comments on the special menu, “Sweets are at the heart of every celebration, symbolizing good luck, blessings, and the joy of togetherness. No festivity is truly complete without something sweet to share. This Holi, we are bringing time-honored traditions to life with handcrafted Gujiyas, delicate Baklavas, and festive indulgences, each made with the finest ingredients and a touch of nostalgia.”

Renowned for its handcrafted pastries and timeless desserts, Ye Old Bakery presents a luxurious take on Holi’s favorite sweet—the Gujiya—along with the layered goodness of Baklava. Meanwhile, Tiffin by Claridges, the hotel’s round-the-clock gourmet delivery service, ensures that your favorite treats reach you fresh, wherever you are.

This Holi, indulge in a refined twist on festive classics:

Gujiyas – The Heart of Holi 

● Saffron Mawa Gujiya – A regal take on the beloved classic
● Chocolate Badam Gujiya – A rich blend of cocoa and almonds
● Rose Coconut Gujiya – Delicate, fragrant, and indulgent
● Pistachio Raspberry Gujiya – A nutty-sweet burst of festive flavors

Baklava – A Timeless Indulgence

● Cashew Baklava – Buttery layers with a delicate crunch
● Pistachio Baklava – A rich, nutty delight
● Almond Baklava – Caramelised perfection
● Kunafa Baklava – A Middle Eastern classic with a crisp, syrupy finish

Holi is a time for indulgence, togetherness, and celebration. Whether you’re gifting a loved one, sharing with family, or treating yourself, these handcrafted delicacies bring a luxurious twist to tradition. Relish the comforting warmth of Saffron Mawa Gujiya, reminiscent of festive gatherings, or let the flaky perfection of Pistachio Baklava transport you to grand Middle Eastern feasts.

This Holi, make every moment of Holi a little sweeter, a little more indulgent, and truly unforgettable—with the finest festive delights from The Claridges New Delhi that capture the essence of tradition and the luxury of fine craftsmanship. Because some festive delights deserve to be relished in style!

New tech hub will harness India’s deep talent pool for global digital transformation

Bengaluru, India, 6th March 2025 – Version 1, a leader in digital transformation, has officially opened its state-of-the-art India Delivery Center (IDC) in Bengaluru. This marks a significant milestone in the company’s international growth strategy, reinforcing its commitment to delivering value for its customers and harnessing India’s rich talent pool to drive next-generation AI, cloud, and digital transformation solutions for global enterprises.

With a strong presence in India since 2019, Version 1 has rapidly scaled its operations, growing from IT development to delivering end-to-end digital solutions that address complex challenges faced by global customers. The company now employs over 500 professionals across key locations in India, including Pune and Ahmedabad, with more than 100 open roles available to further accelerate innovation and technology development.

The launch event was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Srikanth Srinivasan, Vice President at nasscom, Mr. Ross Curran, Director, India & South Asia, Enterprise Ireland, and Mr. Ganesh Kalyanaraman, Managing Director of the IDC and North American Operations, Version 1. The event was attended by Version 1 employees, key industry leaders, and technology partners, highlighting the company’s deep-rooted commitment to India’s thriving tech ecosystem.

Srikanth Srinivasan, Vice President at Nasscom commented on the significance of Version 1’s expansion, stating, “We are proud to champion India’s wealth of talent and innovative spirit, which are deeply embedded at the heart of global technology solutions. Version 1’s expansion into the region in Bengaluru strengthens our ecosystem, serving as a catalyst for local talent while advancing our vision to position this very ecosystem, as the world’s most trusted innovation partner.”

Designed as a key technology hub for Version 1, the IDC will integrate global expertise with local insights, enabling seamless, high-quality service delivery. Key functons will operate from the site including the organisation’s AI Labs and engineering teams that drive transformation, foster innovation and carry out pioneering work to address the unique needs of each customer.

Ganesh Kalyanaraman, Managing Director of the IDC and North America, Version 1, emphasized the company’s commitment to excellence, stating, “Today marks a significant milestone as we expand our presence in India, reinforcing our commitment to delivering exceptional value to our customers. Built on a strong foundation of reliability and clarity in solving complex challenges, we continue to harness new technologies with deep-rooted expertise. Our purpose-designed facilities will enable us to tap into India’s outstanding technology talent, allowing us to scale our capabilities and drive innovation for customers across sectors and geographies.”

Enterprise Ireland, the Irish government organization dedicated to supporting the global expansion of Irish enterprises, has played a key role in facilitating Version 1’s entry into India. Ross Curran, Director, India & South Asia, Enterprise Ireland, highlighted the significance of this milestone, stating, “It is exciting to see Version 1 establish a major technology hub in India, marking a significant step in its global expansion strategy. Version 1’s presence in India not only strengthens its global footprint but also contributes to the local ecosystem by nurturing high-quality talent and delivering exceptional value to customers worldwide.”

Mr. Curran further added, “Enterprise Ireland remains committed to supporting Irish companies like Version 1 as they scale internationally, and this ceremony today reflects the strong collaboration between Ireland and India.”

Version 1 remains at the forefront of AI and cloud innovation, with its AI Labs actively advancing generative AI, analytics, and automation technologies. The company has an embedded and robust sustainability agenda, being on track for net-zero carbon emissions by 2045, with its near-term targets validated by the Science-Based Targets Initiative and aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs).

Consistently recognized for excellence, Version 1 has earned accolades such as AWS Collaboration Partner of the Year 2024, Global Microsoft Application Modernisation Partner of the Year 2023, and Oracle Innovation Partner of the Year 2023. Its expansion in India reinforces its position as a global digital transformation leader while creating high-value employment opportunities and empowering enterprises to navigate digital complexities with confidence

Tuesday, March 04, 2025 – Sundaram Finance Ltd, one of India’s most trusted NBFCs, has introduced a Digital Deposit facility, making savings simpler, safer and more accessible than ever. For over 70 years, Sundaram Finance has been a name synonymous with trust and financial security. With a strong base of over one lakh depositors, Sundaram Finance Deposits have been AAA-rated by ICRA and CRISIL for well over three decades, ensuring the highest level of safety and reliability. Opening a Deposit with Sundaram Finance is just a click away! Customers can conveniently invest and manage their deposits digitally through a seamless and secure process, enjoying peace of mind and attractive returns.

Digital Deposits from Sundaram Finance allow investors to make their money work from the comfort of their homes with the option to open, manage and monitor their deposits at their convenience. Sundaram Finance has made the opening of Digital Fixed Deposits an easy process by downloading the KYC details from CERSAI. This online transaction can be initiated through the company portal and the SF Next app.

“Sundaram Finance has been a trusted partner in financial security for generations. With the launch of our Digital Deposit facility, we are making the investment process simpler and more seamless, so customers can now complete their deposit in just five easy steps and receive an E-TDR instantly. We also encourage individual depositors to add a nominee to ensure financial security. Also, depositors can opt for Auto-maturity payment. Backed by a AAA rating and decades of trust, Our endeavour is always to ensure consistent service standards to facilitate absolute peace of mind” said, Dhandayuthapani S, Head – Deposits

Start your journey towards secure savings today!

Visit www.sundaramfinance.in to open Deposit online.

As the craze for destination weddings is growing, so is the desire amongst couples to experience an exquisite, unique wedding that will be remembered for a lifetime. As a wedding consultant, we understand the emotions of the couple and the family. Thus, we curate beautiful weddings at picturesque locations. From royal weddings in palaces of Rajasthan to adventure filled ones inthe  Himalayas to beach weddings in Goa and Kerala, there is something for everybody. Here are the top trends that will trend in 2025, and give goal-worthy photos and videos for Instagram.

Royal weddings

Palaces and castles are designed for couples seeking royal treatment at historic cities like Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur. One can also consider visiting Europe’s castles for an unforgettable experience. Planners are being asked to create grand wedding ceremonies in regal locations. The majesty of the past is flawlessly combined with modern luxury here. The royal experience includes extravagant lavishness, gorgeous surroundings, horse-drawn carriages, grand entrances, chandeliers, and gilded draperies. The wedding feast banners complement it. The event includes both local and international cuisine options, as well as live entertainment by folk artists. Weddings are typically multi-day affairs that include pre-wedding functions and post-wedding celebrations, allowing couples to fully immerse themselves in the royal experience.

Beach weddings

Beaches, which offer casual elegance by the sea, are always a popular choice. Today’s couples choose a more immersive experience that combines natural beauty and a well-crafted event, rather than a traditional sunset ceremony. Decorations such as macrame or floral arrangements can enhance the atmosphere. Cozy decor is in high demand due to its romantic appeal. Wedding planners are now focussing on individuality. For nature enthusiasts, we offer handcrafted floral walks, reception under the stars, seaside dining with live music, and bonfire sessions. These aspects reflect the relaxed and easy-going nature of beach weddings, making each event distinctive.

Cultural fusion

Destination weddings allow couples to incorporate many cultures and customs into their wedding celebrations. Couples are increasingly embracing cultural fusion. They customise their wedding by incorporating local customs from their destination. These weddings beautifully portray a culture across borders. The wedding planners expertly blend cultures and traditions to create a harmonious occasion. A couple may have a typical wedding and then exchange vows in the local language.
This style incorporates imaginative event structures into weddings. Wedding feasts celebrate varied cuisines, styles, and cultures.

Adventure infused weddings
Destination weddings are becoming more about the overall experience, not just the ceremony or reception. Wedding planners create schedules that allow couples to enjoy a destination as part of their wedding. Pre-wedding activities could include yacht cruising, mountain climbs, or a mini-vacation atmosphere. Making weddings a shared adventure is a popular idea among couples. Some couples are planning adventurous weddings, such as saying their vows while ziplining through the jungle. Wedding planners are cooperating with activity guides to ensure a safe experience.

Sustainable celebration

Eco-friendly weddings are popular this season and will be for a while. Nowadays, many couples are concerned about the environment and want to contribute. Wedding planners are implementing sustainable strategies to create environmentally friendly weddings. These weddings are both fashionable and environmentally sustainable, with local organic food and minimal usage of single-use plastic. Current trends include repurposing dried flowers, using eco-friendly vintage furniture, and using biodegradable confetti. There is a greater emphasis on lowering carbon footprint. Couples are selecting destinations that prioritise sustainability. Eco-friendly resorts are in high demand, and wedding planners are cooperating with vendors who share similar goals. Couples are exploring many eco-friendly options, including sustainable bridal apparel.