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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

National, February 14, 2025; In a strategic bet on AI-driven engagement solutions, the promoters of the country’s leading snacks company Haldiram’s and JITO Incubation and Innovation Foundation (JIIF), a platform for startup funding and mentorship have invested Rs 16 crore in Almonds Ai.

Almonds Ai, a rising player in channel loyalty, rewards, and engagement solutions, aims to disrupt how brands interact with their distribution networks.

The funding round also saw participation from Venture Catalysts, Ever Grow Capital, Nine ALPS, and prominent industry leaders such as Hemant Jain (MD, KLJ Group & President, PHDCCI) and Nitin Jain (Co-founder, Of Business), further underscoring investor confidence in AI-driven business models.

Almonds Ai, through its business model, aims to redefine how brands engage with their distribution networks through cutting-edge AI technology, enhancing engagement, education, and rewards for retailers, dealers, and influencers.

The startup plans to utilize fresh capital infusion to accelerate R&D initiatives, expand the team, and enhance product offerings, ensuring the platform continues to innovate and transform the channel loyalty landscape.

“At Haldiram’s, we have always believed in investing in ideas that create real impact. Almonds Ai’s innovative approach to channel partner engagement is transforming the industry. We see immense potential in their platform as it aligns with our vision of delivering exceptional customer experiences,” said Manohar Lal Agarwal, Chairman & MD, of Haldiram.

“JITO-JIIF is committed to supporting businesses that leverage technology to bring transformative change. Almonds AI is revolutionizing channel engagement with AI-powered solutions that drive efficiency and scalability. We believe this investment will help them expand their reach and create a lasting impact across industries” Sagar Gosalia, COO, JITO Incubation and Innovation Foundation

The startup’s flagship Channelverse™ ecosystem and Green Loyalty Programs are trying to set benchmarks in AI-driven loyalty management and sustainability, enabling businesses to build deeper, data-driven relationships with their distribution networks.

With over 100 distribution-led organizations and a network of 6 million channel partners, including retailers, dealers, and professionals such as drivers, painters, and mechanics, Almonds Ai aims to position itself as a leader in the channel loyalty sector.

“This funding marks a pivotal moment for Almonds Ai as we expand our AI-driven engagement solutions. It will allow us to scale operations, enter global markets, and empower businesses with tools that foster meaningful, long-term relationships with their channel partners,” said Abhinav Jain and Apurv Modi, Co-founders, of Almonds Ai.

Industry experts believe that AI-powered platforms like Almonds Ai will play a crucial role in optimizing sales channels, improving partner engagement, and driving customer retention across sectors.

Mumbai, 14 February 2025: Tata Capital, the Associate Sponsor of the Women’s Premier League, is proud to launch its latest campaign, “Game Bolega.” This campaign celebrates the essence of cricket—where skill, determination, and performance take center stage, not perceptions. Featuring some of WPL’s finest players, Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Harleen Deol, and Yastika Bhatia, “Game Bolega” delivers a powerful message: “Ab hum nahi, humara game bodega.” Because in the end, it is the game that speaks.

At its core, is a gripping teaser and powerful rap anthem film featuring popular Tata WPL players. This portrayal underscores that women’s cricket is defined by talent, performance, and undeniable skill.

The Tata WPL 2025 season 3 kicks off on February 14 in Vadodara, with the ‘Game Bolega’ campaign. The campaign will be live across Tata Capital’s social media platforms, featuring interactive content, behind-the-scenes moments, and engaging contests.

The tournament will begin in Vadodara, followed by Bengaluru, and Lucknow, and conclude with the playoffs and final in Mumbai.

Speaking about the campaign, Ms. Abonty Banerjee, Chief Operating Officer of digital and Marketing at Tata Capital, said, “Our continued association with WPL reflects our belief in the transformative power of sports. By challenging stereotypes and celebrating the spirit of the sport, ‘Game Bolega’ aims to inspire athletes and fans while highlighting the increasing influence of women’s cricket on the broader sporting landscape.”

Bengaluru, India – February 14, 2025: Paras Defence and Space Technologies Ltd. (“Paras Defence”), a leading player in the defence and space sector, has announced a strategic investment in a deep tech company, Logic Fruit Technologies Private Limited (“Logic Fruit”), by acquiring an approx. 8% stake in the company for a value of Rs. 10 Cr. The announcement was made at AERO India 2025, one of the world’s premier aerospace and defence exhibitions, reinforcing India’s commitment to cutting-edge indigenous technology development.

Logic Fruit is a deep-tech, research-driven company, specializing in high-performance computing, FPGA/SoC-based embedded solutions, and advanced signal processing. With a strong focus on R&D and breakthrough technology development, the company plays a crucial role in designing mission-critical systems for the aerospace, defence, telecommunications, and semiconductor industries.

Through this partnership, Paras Defence will be able to leverage Logic Fruit’s expertise in high-speed data processing, AI-driven embedded solutions, and real-time computing architectures to enhance the capabilities of its subsidiary, Paras Anti-Drone Technologies Private Limited. The collaboration aims to accelerate innovation in next-generation defence technologies and open new avenues for advanced research and commercialization of high-performance computing solutions.

Speaking at AERO India 2025, Munjal Sharad Shah, Managing Director of Paras Defence, stated: “This investment reinforces our vision of being at the forefront of India’s defence and aerospace technology landscape. Logic Fruit’s strong research orientation and deep-tech expertise make them a valuable partner in developing next-generation solutions. Together, we aim to push the boundaries of high-performance computing and defence technology, contributing to India’s technological self-reliance.”

Logic Fruit has successfully delivered over 100 high-end technology solutions, working closely with defence research organizations, aerospace innovators, and global tech leaders. Its clientele includes ISRO, DRDO, HAL, and international giants like Collins Aerospace (USA), Kandou (Switzerland), Lattice (USA), and Achronix (USA). The company’s research-led product portfolio includes single-board computers, IF and RF Recorders, scalable data acquisition systems, and AI-powered avionics displays—all critical to modern aerospace and defence applications.

Mumbai, 13th February 2025: This Valentine’s Day, Faasos, the flagship brand of Rebel Foods, the world’s leading internet restaurant company is back with its much-loved, offbeat celebration of singledom—DATE A WRAP! From tracking down lonely singles in Instagram comment sections to setting them up on a one-of-a-kind movie date with wraps, Faasos is taking fun and food to a whole new level.

Mr. Nishant Kedia, CMO, of Rebel Foods and the driving force behind the campaign, says, “At Faasos, we believe being single is something to celebrate, and what better way to do it than with mouthwatering food? A wrap won’t ghost you, break your heart, or leave you hanging—it’s the most loyal Valentine you’ll ever have! We’re also thrilled to partner with Cinepolis to bring this celebration to the big screen, making it a truly unforgettable experience for our customers.”

In collaboration with Cinepolis, Faasos will host an exclusive “Date A Wrap” movie night across three major cities—Mumbai, NCR, and Bengaluru—screening the romcom Loveyapa, a film that perfectly captures the rollercoaster ride of love.

HOW IT WORKS:

• The Great Instagram Singles Hunt – Faasos’ team will scout for lonely souls crying in comment sections, slide into their DMs with flirty texts, and set them up for the ultimate wrap-date.
• The Cinepolis Experience – Lucky singles will get exclusive movie tickets for a special screening of Loveyapa, where their seat partners will be none other than Faasos wraps and a surprise Valentine’s Day hamper.
• The Social Experiment – Their reactions will be recorded as they experience this unique date, with fun interactions and candid moments shared on social media.
• Long-Distance Wrap Love – For those who can’t attend, Faasos will send special V-Day hampers featuring the exclusive Date-A-Wrap collection, available on Eatsure, Swiggy, and Zomato.

So, if you haven’t found the perfect Valentine yet, Faasos has got your back—and your bite! Get ready to ditch the heartbreak and date a wrap this Valentine’s Day.