6th January 2025  Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India  Kalimark, the iconic South Indian brand renowned for its Bovonto soft drink, has kicked off the new year with the launch of juice beverages and premium-grade dal products. This expansion strengthens its portfolio of non-carbonated beverages as the 100+ year-old company takes a bold step toward establishing itself as a major player in the food products industry.

The new ready-to-drink Kalimark Frutang fruit beverages are mango and apple juices, and a chili-guava juice, all priced at Rs. 12 for a 200 ml PET bottle. Additionally, the company has introduced premium-grade urad and toor dal, available in 1 kg packages.

The Kalimark Group of Companies is now helmed by fourth-generation entrepreneurs from the founding family, dedicated to upholding the legacy of its visionary founder, Shri. P.V.S.K. Palaniappa Nadar. Honouring his contributions, the company has unveiled a bronze statue of its founder at its state-of-the-art, 9-acre fully automated manufacturing facility in Sri City.

Established in 1916 with a handful of cola products, including the iconic Bovonto, Kalimark has grown into a leader in the beverage industry, offering 25 products across various soft drink categories. It dominates the market in panneer soda and non-caffeine carbonated beverages. The company’s non-beverage product portfolio now includes sunflower oil, flavored milk, and wafers, showcasing its commitment to meeting evolving consumer needs.

Commenting on the new launches, Mr. J. Ramesh, Managing Director of Kalis Sparkling Water Pvt. Ltd., Kali Aerated Water Works Pvt. Ltd., and Palaniunna Foods Pvt Ltd, said, “We are thrilled to expand into flavorful fruit beverages and premium dal products. This expansion is in line with our vision of becoming a leading food products company in South India. With our deep understanding of the market, a robust distribution network, and cutting-edge technology, we are confident in meeting customers’ expectations.”

He added, “Our beverages are rich in vitamins and stand out for their uniqueness. Notably, our guava and chili use pink guava and the blend is first-of-its-kind in the organised sector. Our juice beverages are preservative-free and produced in a fully automated, temperature-controlled environment, guaranteeing an untouched and hygienic process. As for our dal products, we employ a double-sortex process to ensure uniform grain size with no mixing. The grains are unpolished, maintaining their natural color, rich taste, and nutritional benefits, including protein and dietary fiber. Our dal passes rigorous chemical and cooking tests to meet the highest quality standards.”

6th January 2025  Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India  The Hotel Management and Culinary Arts students of Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute (a deemed-to-be university) clinched an impressive 60 gold medals in the bakery competitions at the India Bakery Expo 2024, recently organised by the Tamil Nadu Bakers’ Federation in Chennai.

Nearly 40 students from the B.A. Culinary Arts and B.Sc. Hotel Management & Catering Technology programs participated in the three-day event, one of the largest bakery expos and competitions in South India. The students secured 19 gold medals in the Dry Cakes & Cookies category, 14 in European Breads & Viennoiserie, and 27 in the Wedding Cake category, competing against hundreds of students from over 25 institutions across South India. The judging panel featured prominent bakers, chefs, and business leaders from the hospitality industry.

In his comments, Mr. A.C.S. Arun Kumar, President, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, said, “The India Bakery Expo is a true celebration of Tamil Nadu’s rich baking heritage and culinary diversity, drawing thousands of bakers, enthusiasts, and industry professionals from across the state and beyond. We are thrilled that our students had the opportunity to showcase their exceptional talent at this prestigious event, earning an impressive haul of gold medals across various bakery competition categories. What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that most of our medal-winning students are in their first year. With expert guidance from our dedicated and talented bakery faculty, they equipped themselves and presented an impressive array of traditional and contemporary baked goods, including innovative fusion creations.”

He further highlighted that the event provided students with a valuable platform to network, exchange ideas, and interact with renowned bakers, chefs, hospitality business leaders, and others from the vibrant regional baking community. Students also actively participated in interactive workshops and seminars on the latest baking trends while exploring a wide range of baking equipment and supplies.

The Faculty of Hotel Management and Culinary Arts at Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute offers comprehensive programs, including B.Sc. and M.Sc. degrees in Hotel Management & Catering Technology, B.Sc. and M.Sc. degrees in Food Science, Nutrition & Dietetics, B.A. in Culinary Arts, and M.A. in Indian Cuisine and Food Culture.

4th January 2025  Vadakara, Kerala, India  The Sargaalaya International Arts and Crafts Festival (SIACF) 2024-25, set against the stunning backdrop of rolling hills and the Arabian Sea, has emerged as India’s largest celebration of global artistry and gastronomy.

This landmark event, running from December 20 to January 6, brings together over 200 master artisans from 15+ countries, transforming the picturesque Malabar Coast into an international hub of cultural exchange.

The festival’s Tourism Talk Series has become a pivotal platform for shaping the region’s future, with celebrities, political and industry leaders engaging in meaningful discussions about establishing Malabar as a global tourism destination. These dialogues, coupled with the festival’s impressive showcase of international talent, underscore SIACF’s role in cultural diplomacy and regional development.

At the heart of the festival lies an extraordinary culinary experience, with over 20 specialized food stalls creating a vibrant tapestry of Kerala Flavors. Visitors can embark on a gastronomic journey from authentic Kerala meals to Malabar specialties. The festival’s artistic core features award-winning international artisans including Bulgarian textile master Madlena Petrova’s gold-thread creations, Lebanese metalwork artist Fathima Torttoussi’s intricate jewellery, and Iranian designer Fathimeh Alipour Yousefi’s contemporary pieces. The Arabic Calligraphy Theme Village, showcasing AYAT’s century-lasting titanium masterpieces, stands as a testament to the fusion of traditional Islamic art with modern innovation.

As dusk falls, the Floating Barge Stage comes alive with cultural performances against the backdrop of Sargaalaya’s serene lake. The festival’s entertainment lineup includes tomorrow’s Christmas Special by Sooraj Santhosh, followed by Anitha Shaiq’s Sufi night, Thekkinkadu Band’s fusion concert, and a grand New Year’s Eve celebration with 11 – The Band.

Families can explore the 400-foot underwater tunnel aquarium, enjoy boating activities, and participate in craft workshops led by master artisans. Themed villages dedicated to handloom, bamboo, and Theyyam offer immersive experiences into traditional craftsmanship, while the Global Artisans Pavilion presents rare handcrafted treasures from Russia, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Mexico, and beyond.

The festival grounds, nestled in the enchanting landscape of Sargaalaya Arts & Crafts Village, showcase daily demonstrations of terracotta pottery, bamboo crafts, mural painting, and coir product making. This living museum of crafts offers visitors unprecedented access to centuries-old techniques and contemporary innovations.

SIACF 2024-25, managed by ULCCS Ltd. and supported by the Ministry of Tourism, runs daily from 10 AM to 10 PM. Whether seeking artistic inspiration, culinary adventures, or cultural enrichment, the festival promises an unforgettable journey through global traditions and local heritage.

The festival is made possible through the generous support of its key sponsors and partners. NABARD, as the principal sponsor, plays a vital role in empowering the handloom sector, ensuring the livelihood of artisans and weavers. Complementing NABARD’s efforts, Kerala Tourism and Incredible India add a cultural and tourism dimension to the event, showcasing Kerala’s rich heritage on a national platform. The Development Commissioner of Handicrafts, Ministry of Textiles, extends its unwavering support to preserve and promote India’s exquisite handloom crafts. ULCCS, renowned for its commitment to community development and cooperative values, further amplifies the festival’s outreach and success.

4th January 2025 Mumbai, Maharashtra, India This December, Being Human Clothing invites fans and fashion enthusiasts to join the grandest celebration of the year – ‘Bhai ka Budday: Weightlifting Toh Banta Hai!’ As Salman Khan, the beloved face of Being Human Clothing, celebrates his birthday, the brand is making it extra special with an exclusive Flat 50% Off offer on all collections from 25th to 27th December.

For just two days, fans and shoppers can upgrade their wardrobe with stylish, trend-forward apparel while celebrating Salman Khan’s birthday in true Being Human style. Don’t miss the chance to grab your favorite pieces at half the price and make this holiday season even more fashionable.

As part of the festivities, Being Human Clothing is also introducing 4 new perfume sprays inspired by Salman Khan’s iconic charm. Available in stores and online during the campaign, these fragrances are a thoughtful addition for fans who wish to carry a bit of “Being Human” with them.

Ayaan Agnihotri, Executive Director, Being Human Clothing, said, “This campaign is all about celebrating Salman Mamu’s special day with his supporters. The Flat 50% Off sale is our way of thanking fans for their love and loyalty.”

Being Human Clothing’s COO, Vivek Sandhwar, adds, “Bhai ka Budday: Weightlifting Toh Banta Hai’ is not just about discounts; it’s about bringing people together to celebrate generosity, joy, and the spirit of Being Human. The sale is the perfect opportunity for our customers to indulge in stylish, high-quality clothing at unbeatable prices.”

Hurry! These are the last two days of the sale – mark your calendars for 25th to 27th December and head to the nearest Being Human store or shop online to make the most of this exciting offer

4th January 2025  Bengaluru, Karnataka, India  As we approached the last lap of this year, Netrack participated in the BICSI event in Mumbai. Being the leading provider of data center racks and IT infrastructure solutions, Netrack highlighted its innovative solutions to address the growing demands of high and medium-density environments. With an impressive participation of 60 industry professionals, Netrack met with enthusiastic engagement and insightful discussions.

The event gained momentum with the presentation by Mr. Krishna Raj, who delivered a comprehensive and engaging session on Netrack’s latest solutions for high and medium-density requirements. His presentation focused on critical technologies such as the Rear Door Heat Exchanger. It is, in fact, a cutting-edge solution designed to optimize cooling and energy efficiency in a high-density data center ecosystem. By addressing key industry challenges like thermal management, this solution gained interest from the participants, who recognized its potential to streamline operations while reducing costs.

Along with Mr. Krishna Raj on stage was Mr. Dhruvit from Mumbai. He has been an integral member of the Netrack team. Together, they addressed audience questions and provided real-time insights into how Netrack’s solutions are shaping the future of IT infrastructure management. They also highlighted the aspect of sustainability and efficiency that makes Netrack unique in its offering.

Additionally, Netrack showcased its CE-certified Power Distribution Units (PDUs) at the event. With a live demo, Netrack gained immense appreciation from industry professionals for their quality, safety, and reliability. The real-time display of the CE-certified PDUs allowed everyone present to witness and understand the robust performance and seamless integration of the unit into data centers. Such a demonstration in the BICSI event in Mumbai further enhanced Netrack’s reputation for delivering cutting-edge solutions that meet global standards.

The event provided an excellent platform for Netrack to connect with key stakeholders in the IT and data center industry, as well as to showcase its commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions.

The Mumbai BICSI event was a grand success for Netrack, displaying innovative solutions like data center racks, PDUs and so on, that will change the way data centers operate in the future.

4th January 2025  Gurugram, Haryana, India SGT University recently played host to the fourth edition of the BRICS Association on Gravity, Astrophysics and Cosmology (BRICS-AGAC) Symposium, a landmark event that took place from December 17th to 19th, 2024. This prestigious symposium, which focuses on fostering collaboration and advancing research in the fields of gravity, astrophysics, and cosmology, marked the first time the event was held in India.

The symposium commenced with a warm and welcoming address by Dr. Mohammad Sami, Professor and Director of SGT University’s Thanu Padmanabhan Centre for Cosmology and Science Popularization (CCSP), the primary organiser of the event. Dr. Sami remarked, “We are thrilled to host the 4th symposium in India and look forward to the stimulating discussions and exchanges over the next three days. This event will undoubtedly strengthen the collaborative ties among the BRICS nations in the pursuit of scientific advancement.”

In a statement reflecting the significance of this gathering, Dr. Sami added, “Science knows no boundaries, and this symposium stands as a testament to the collective commitment of the BRICS nations to push the frontiers of human knowledge in astrophysics and cosmology. We believe that the discussions held here will lay the foundation for future breakthroughs and collaborations in these fields.”

The symposium brought together eminent scientists, researchers, and academics from all five BRICS countries-Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa-along with distinguished speakers from leading institutions worldwide. Notable participants included representatives from Moscow State University (Russia), the BINGO Project (Brazil), Baylor University (USA), Western Cape University (South Africa), Gunsan National University (South Korea), the Institute of Theoretical Physics CAS (China), and leading Indian institutions such as IIT Bombay, IISc Bengaluru, IISER Mohali, and Jamia Millia Islamia. These experts shared cutting-edge insights into the latest advancements in cosmology, astrophysics, and the fundamental workings of the universe.

A key highlight of the event was the inaugural “Starobinsky Memorial Lecture,” delivered online by the distinguished physicist, Professor Alan Guth. A pioneer of the theory of Cosmic Inflation Professor Guth’s lecture focused on this groundbreaking concept, which seeks to explain the events that unfolded in the early universe immediately following the Big Bang. This marked his first-ever presentation in India and was met with widespread acclaim.SGT University takes immense pride in having hosted this transformative event and remains committed to facilitating further international collaborations that benefit not only the academic community but also its diverse student body across more than 200 academic programs. The university is eager to continue nurturing partnerships that foster academic excellence and scientific innovation on a global scale.

4th January 2025  New Delhi, Delhi, India  Parimatch News, a leading Indian sports community, is proud to announce its sponsorship with Sunburn Goa 2024, one of Asia’s most celebrated music festivals. Taking place from December 28–30, 2024, in South Goa, this three-day festival promises to transform Goa into a music paradise for fans across the globe.

Ranked as the 11th-best music festival in the world, Sunburn Goa 2024 boasts an exciting lineup of over 50 artists set to perform across its stages. Headlining the event are electronic dance music (EDM) superstars like Skrillex, Alesso, Peggy Gou, and KSHMR, alongside a diverse mix of Indian and international talent. With non-stop music and vibrant energy, the festival promises memories that will last a lifetime.

As the Co-Powered Partner, Parimatch News is set to bring an extra spark with exclusive activities and interactive experiences. Festival-goers can unwind at The Ultimate Chill Zone, a stylish two-story booth offering comfy seating, charging stations, and a vibrant photo area designed for relaxation and fun. Attendees can also spin the Wheel of Fortune for guaranteed prizes including Parimatch News merchandise like bucket hats and backpacks. Additionally, all participants are automatically entered into a raffle to win a brand-new iPhone, with the winner selected through a randomizer.

Parimatch News’ presence will shine across the festival’s venues, adding to the visual and experiential appeal of the event.

Ever notice how every big win comes with its own soundtrack—the one you can’t help but hum when you’re on cloud nine? At Parimatch News, we believe every victory deserves an anthem that celebrates the moment. You’ll definitely hear some this year at the Sunburn Festival! We’re turning up the volume with a ‘Beat of Victory’—an exclusive set of thrilling activities, generous prizes, and a vibrant fan zone. Come feel the vibe for yourself!” commented the Parimatch News Press Office.

The partnership reflects Parimatch News’ vision of connecting with India’s vibrant youth by celebrating the power of music and shared experiences.

4th January 2025  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  On December 28, 2024, the birth anniversary of the late industrialist and philanthropist, Ratan Tata, a special Grove will be launched in his memory overseen by social enterprise Grow-Trees.com. The idea was conceived by Geeta Gopalakrishnan who was for many years a honorary fundraiser for cancer patients at the Tata Medical Centre, Kolkata, an initiative close to Mr Tata’ s heart. The project is a collaborative effort where citizens can participate and write their tributes to the icon. As part of this citizen collaboration four lakh trees will be planted across 17 villages in Nainital and six in Almora, Uttarakhand. This extensive green cover is part of Grow-Trees.com’s ‘Trees+ for the Himalayas’ plan and will be called the ‘Ratan Tata Memorial Forest’.

“Ratan Tata’s life embodied strength, compassion and generosity and even though he was a global icon, his roots remained steadfastly planted in the Indian ethos. It is fitting that a flourishing green forest will honour his legacy and memorialise his contributions,” says Mr Pradip Shah, Co-founder of Grow-Trees.com.

The year-long campaign, running until December 28, 2025, invites individuals and corporates to write a tribute and/or dedicate trees to the ‘Ratan Tata Memorial Forest’ via www.grow-trees.com. Each dedication will include the supporter’s/ planter’s name and a one-line tribute to Mr Tata, which will be featured on the Ratan Tata Memorial Forest section of the website. Upon completion of the campaign, the final eTreeCertificate® listing the total number of trees planted, along with the tributes and names of the supporter’s/ planter’s, will be presented to Tata Sons.

‘Ratan Tata Memorial Forest’ will also create 23 water bodies to store and recharge groundwater. It will also additionally focus on educating girls from rural communities and training farmers in climate-resilient agriculture. The forest will feature various species such as Banj, Bakian, Bhatula, Bhimal, Majuna, Glaucus oak, Purple Orchid, Kachnar, Padam, Mediterranean Hackberry, Tej, Jamun, White Willow, Himalayan Mulberry and Indian Horse Chestnut.

“This is a fitting tribute to a beloved Indian icon who lived simply but showed by example how great success could be achieved while being rooted in solid human values,” says Mr Shah.

4th January 2025  Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India  Sri Ramakrishna Hospital took a proactive approach to combat the rising prevalence of rheumatic disease by promoting awareness of early diagnosis, and lifestyle modifications. Further, focusing on educating the public about the significance of timely treatment to prevent complications.

Rheumatology focuses on diagnosing and treating autoimmune and inflammatory diseases that mainly affect the joints, muscles, and connective tissues. Arthritis is a common early sign, indicating the presence of rheumatological disorders. The hospital emphasizes the importance of timely detection and lifestyle changes to get relief from the disease.

Understanding rheumatological diseases

Arthritis is merely an initial symptom that manifests in various diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, spondyloarthritis, gouty arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjogren’s syndrome, and systemic sclerosis. Each condition exhibits different other signs, and also a precise diagnosis is crucial.

More often than not, patients will experience pain, swelling, early morning stiffness, and limitation of movements in one or more joints in these diseases. Other symptoms include, skin rashes, mouth ulcers, severe hair loss, and blood leakage in urine will occur in the case of lupus, while Systemic sclerosis causes skin tightening, changes in finger color, and muscle weakness, and Sjogren’s syndrome causes dryness in the mouth and eyes.

Early diagnosis plays a significant role in protecting patients from reaching the stage of deformities and complications associated with chronic arthritis. Further, with the help of blood investigation and scans, the type of arthritis disease will be identified and then doctors will initiate the treatment.

Lifestyle changes and treatment plans

A comprehensive approach is required to manage rheumatological diseases like:

• Physiotherapy: Notably, physiotherapy plays a crucial role, as exercise is crucial for maintaining joint function and pain relief.
• Therapies: With the combination of targeted therapies and medications, patients can achieve a near normal stage.
• Changes in diet: Further, dietary changes also play a major role in preventing exacerbations, patients with gout are advised to avoid seafood, red meat, smoking, and alcohol. In other diseases, red meat should be avoided, and consider consuming a plant-based and mediterranean diet.
• Vaccination: Patients undergoing treatment for rheumatic diseases often experience weakened immunity, making them more susceptible to infections. Preventive measures like vaccinations are recommended to protect against infections such as fever and urinary tract infections.
• Frequent checkups: Periodic evaluation of cardiac and bone health has to be done at least once in 5 years, as rheumatological conditions can lead to complications in these areas.

Hope for newly diagnosed patients

Sri Ramakrishna Hospital reassures patients that rheumatological diseases, though chronic, are manageable with timely intervention, appropriate medications, and physiotherapy. Modern therapies help patients lead near-normal lives, and the impact of the disease will be reduced. Individuals who experience signs like joint pain, morning stiffness, skin rashes, or abnormal blood clotting should get immediate medical help.

Even false positives are common in diagnostic tests, highlighting the significance of observing signs with a rheumatological consultant before commencing treatment.

The actual cause of rheumatological disease may remain unclear, potentially linked to genetics, pollution, and infection. Improving the quality of life after the onset of rheumatic disease with lifestyle modifications, a positive mindset, and medical help is equally important in addition to medications.

4th January 2025  Udaipur, Rajasthan, India Urban Square Mall, Rajasthan’s largest mall, became the center of festive excitement as over 20,000 visitors gathered to witness a breathtaking Dubai-style fireworks display that lit up the Udaipur night sky. The crowning moment of the evening was an awe-inspiring Dubai-style fireworks display that lit up the Udaipur night sky, creating a breathtaking spectacle and setting a new benchmark for festive celebrations in the region.

The celebration was a multi-sensory extravaganza, featuring standout performances by internationally acclaimed artists. DJ and violinist Danika delivered a high-energy performance, body percussionist Bharat Verma captivated with his rhythmic artistry, and belly dancer Kate enthralled the audience with her graceful moves. The mall buzzed with festive cheer, offering visitors a unique blend of world-class entertainment, music, and holiday spirit.

As the fireworks painted the night sky with dazzling colors, cheers erupted from the crowd, leaving everyone in awe of the grand display. The event attracted not only Udaipur’s residents but also visitors from neighboring cities, firmly establishing Urban Square Mall as a premier destination for cultural and entertainment events.

Uddhav Poddar, CMD of Bhumika Group, shared, “The overwhelming response to Urban Square Mall’s first-ever Dubai-style fireworks has been incredibly heartwarming. This celebration reflects our dedication to delivering world-class experiences and creating joyful moments for people in Udaipur and beyond. We’re proud to have hosted an event that will be fondly remembered for years to come.”

Siddharth Katyal, CEO of Bhumika Group, added, “This is just the beginning. We have numerous activities lined up for New Year’s, and this event marks a major milestone in redefining Udaipur’s lifestyle and entertainment landscape. Urban Square Mall continues to demonstrate its commitment to curating extraordinary celebrations that resonate with the community. We are excited to carry this momentum forward and look forward to many more landmark events in the future.”

The resounding success of the Christmas celebration is just the beginning. Urban Square Mall is gearing up for its next major event: a grand New Year’s Eve celebration on December 31st. Visitors can look forward to an unforgettable evening, featuring mesmerizing fire acrobatics, a spellbinding belly dance performance by Valentina, the rhythmic artistry of body percussion by Bharat Verma, foot-tapping beats by DJ Deepali, and the enchanting melodies of a live band.

Following the success of its Christmas festivities, the mall is set to end the year on a high note and welcome 2025 with an evening of magic, music, and merriment at Udaipur’s iconic destination. The New Year’s celebration will feature a mega version of the Dubai-style fireworks, with an advanced, breathtaking display that promises to light up the skies like never before, marking a grand conclusion to 2024.