28th January 2025: As India eagerly anticipates the Union Budget 2025, industry leaders across the food and beverage, startup, beauty, and sustainable luxury sectors share their expectations and key recommendations for policy reforms that could drive growth and innovation. Addressing sector-specific challenges and introducing progressive measures will be pivotal in shaping a resilient and forward-looking business environment.

By – Mr. Ganesh Sonawane, Founder and CEO of Frido

 “India’s startup ecosystem is a thriving hub of innovation, and we hope that the Union Budget 2025 reflects its potential. Startups, particularly those focusing on health-focused innovations, stand to benefit greatly from policies that streamline GST processes, introduce R&D tax incentives, and provide easier access to funding could ignite a wave of innovation, empowering manufacturers and startups to meet the increasing demand for wellness products. Encouraging startups to scale manufacturing for global markets will also be crucial in reinforcing the Make in India for the World initiative. With the right support, entrepreneurs can position India as a global hub for wellness and ergonomic solutions, showcasing the country’s ingenuity and innovation on the world stage.”

By – Aji Nair, CEO at Mirah Hospitality

“As we approach the Union Budget 2025, the F&B sector looks forward to measures that address key challenges such as rising food inflation, operational costs, and the intricate tax structures on alcohol and aerated beverages that impact profitability. A progressive framework that fosters innovation, simplifies policies and enables sustainable growth will be pivotal for the industry’s success.

The restaurant sector specifically urges the restoration of the GST Input Tax Credit, which would significantly ease operational expenses and enhance efficiency.
Additionally, revisiting the GST notification on commercial leases under the Reverse Charge Mechanism is essential to reduce financial burdens. With these steps, the sector can focus on innovation, customer experiences, and long-term growth.”

By – Shrishti Yadav and Shubham Godara, Co-founders at SCINQ Neurocosmetics

 “We are optimistic that the 2025 Union Budget will address critical areas like streamlining the GST framework to reduce complexities, particularly for the beauty and skincare industry, where multiple tax slabs create challenges. A more uniform and industry-friendly tax structure would ease operations and lower costs, benefiting both businesses and consumers. Support for the retail and e-commerce sectors through industry-friendly policies would further encourage growth and innovation, creating a more dynamic marketplace. These steps can help Indian beauty and skincare space to reach a broader audience and contribute to the overall growth of the economy.”

By – Ricky Vasandani, Co-founder and CEO of Solitario

 “As India increasingly embraces sustainable luxury, this year’s Union Budget presents a valuable opportunity to encourage eco-conscious consumption. By fostering an environment that supports sustainable businesses and innovation, particularly in sectors like lab-grown diamonds, we can create a thriving ecosystem for luxury brands. Simplified regulations and forward-thinking policies will enable brands to flourish in an evolving market, helping India strengthen its position as a leader in environmentally responsible luxury while promoting a new era of conscious consumerism.”

Taking the number of international airports in India to 36, two new international airports are set to become operational in 2025. At present, the country has 103 domestic airports and the Union Government has granted an in-principle nod for establishing 21 Greenfield Airports across India. These include facilities at Mopa in Goa, Navi Mumbai, Shirdi, and Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, Kalaburagi, Vijayapura, Hassan, and Shivamogga in Karnataka, Dabra (Gwalior) in Madhya Pradesh, Kushinagar as well as Dholera and Rajkot in Gujarat. Expanding air travel infrastructure to Tier-II and Tier-III cities will not only improve accessibility but also encourage new air carriers to enter the market, intensifying competition and making air travel more affordable.

“We observed that almost a decade ago, India’s economic activity was largely concentrated in a few metropolitan cities. These major cities were the primary contributors to the country’s GDP, with trade and economic activities predominantly centred there. However, this trend has shifted. Growing disposable income among the middle class, rapid adoption of technology, and widespread internet penetration have had a transformative effect on the lives of people in Tier-II and Tier-III cities. As the gap between these cities and metros continues to narrow, focusing on developing airport infrastructure in smaller cities, along with the ongoing emphasis on major urban centres, is the need of the hour,” says Jaideep Mirchandani, group chairman of Sky One.

As per the draft prepared by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the total number of airports in the country is set to nearly double to 300 by 2047, up from the current 140. This plan involves not only the construction of new airports but also the upgrade of 70 existing airstrips into fully operational airports. Among the greenfield airports planned, 12 have already been operationalized, including Durgapur, Shirdi, Sindhudurg, Pakyong, Kannur, Kalaburagi, Oravakal (Kurnool), Kushinagar, Itanagar, Mopa, Shivamogga and Rajkot.

“The benefits of new airports in Tier-II cities will significantly boost tourism and the economy. They will also help travellers explore their favourite destinations with less travel time, aligning with busy schedules. For example, consider the new Pakyong Airport in Sikkim, located just 31 km from Gangtok. Previously, travellers had to fly to Bagdogra in West Bengal and then continue by road. This new airport greatly enhances both tourism and trade in the region,” adds Mr Mirchandani and concludes, “Most importantly, the expansion of airports in Tier-II and Tier-III cities will reduce stress and congestion at major airports.

New Delhi, January 28th, 2025— The annual Luxury Residential Outlook Survey 2025 conducted by India Sotheby’s International Realty (ISIR) revealed that confidence in India’s economic growth remains strong, albeit slightly tempered. Optimism has declined from 79% in 2024 to 71% in 2025. Nevertheless, most High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) and Ultra High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNIs) believe India will continue to be the fastest-growing major economy, with GDP growth projected to hover between 6% and 6.5%.

In the real estate sector, the outlook among UHNIs and HNIs has moderated, with 62% planning to invest in the next 12–24 months compared to 71% in 2024. Despite this slight dip, the steady confidence underscores real estate’s enduring appeal as a wealth-building asset.

HNIs and UHNIs remain primarily motivated by capital appreciation, with 55% citing it as their main reason for investing in luxury residential real estate in 2025, up from 44% in 2024. Nearly half of respondents expect real estate investments to deliver returns between 12% and 18%, while 38% anticipate returns below 12%. Fewer than 15% foresee returns exceeding 18%, reflecting more realistic expectations after three years of strong gains.

Mr. Amit Goyal, MD of India Sotheby’s International Realty, said “As we look ahead to 2025, India’s luxury real estate market is primed for continued growth, though with a more cautious optimism. We believe demand for trophy and bespoke luxury assets, especially spacious farmhouses and gated community villas in hill and beach destinations will be a significant trend in the coming year. Our conviction is driven by the fact that India stands out as a frontrunner, with billionaires here experiencing a staggering 42% surge in collective wealth, now exceeding $905 billion, according to the UBS “Billionaire Ambitions Report.” Over the past decade, India’s billionaire count has more than doubled to 185, with their total wealth tripling. This solidifies India’s position as the third-largest base for billionaires globally, just behind the US and China.”

The survey also highlighted a rising interest in second and holiday homes, with 54% of respondents considering properties in hill or beach destinations. Convenience is a key factor, as 55% prefer homes within a four-hour drive, while only 20% opt for international locations. Among global markets, Dubai has overtaken London as the top choice, with US cities also gaining attention.

While financial assets like equities and commodities remain the most favored, with 54% of respondents prioritizing them, real estate continues to attract 36% of HNIs planning to allocate surplus funds over the next two years. This underscores the value of real estate as a stable, tangible asset amidst market volatility.

With interest rates expected to ease moderately, 71% of respondents anticipate gradual reductions, although 23% remain cautious, citing inflation concerns. As India’s luxury real estate market evolves to meet the needs of affluent individuals and young wealth creators, the property landscape is evolving to offer a dynamic mix of lifestyle upgrades and wealth-generation opportunities.

Mr Ashwin Chadha, CEO of India Sotheby’s International Realty, said: ” The evolution of luxury real estate in India over the past decade has been remarkable. A segment once dominated by self-built bungalows has now added high-rise luxury apartments and gated community villas by renowned developers offering world-class amenities and assured quality to the demand bouquet of the rich and famous. Today, luxury real estate is more than a status symbol; it’s a robust investment avenue.”

The number of Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals in India has reached 13,600 in 2024, with projections of a 50% increase by 2028. This rising affluence, coupled with the segment’s resilience as an inflation hedge and its ability to deliver long-term capital appreciation, makes luxury real estate a preferred choice for lifestyle upgrades and wealth creation. Add to this the growing influence of young wealth creators under 40, and it’s clear that luxury real estate is not just growing—it’s defining India’s property landscape.”

The activity was aimed at fostering creativity, boosting imagination, and motivating fun learning

The students of The Academy School (TAS), Pune, participated in a special event conducted to celebrate and understand art through the world of cartoons and animations. The ‘Animated Adventure’ activity was organised to boost students’ imagination, foster creativity, and motivate fun learning.

Students were excited to dress up as their favourite animated characters’ T-shirts, adding a colourful and playful vibe to the activity. Additionally, students witnessed a live skit inspired by the famous cartoon series Tom and Jerry and other cartoons. Students came dressed as their favourite cartoon characters and brought their roles to life by performing scenes from popular stories. They were engrossed in the performances, which opened up a new world of possibilities through art and entertainment.

Dr. Maithili Tambe, CEO of The Academy School (TAS), who spearheaded the initiative, said students learn best when they have fun. While learning never stops, students should not feel pressured to attain knowledge. Education can also be imparted in a fun manner. What better way to teach them art and animation than their favourite cartoons, which they can relate to and connect with?”

The activity also saw students display their creativity by painting and drawing their favourite animated characters, thereby allowing them to express themselves and polish their preferences through art.

Prime Video has unveiled the heartfelt and soul-stirring music album of its highly anticipated Original film The Mehta Boys. This album perfectly encapsulates the film’s essence, highlighting the father-son relationship through three beautifully composed tracks. Each track combines meaningful lyrics with calming melodies, creating a deep emotional connection that will resonate deeply with listeners.

Whether it’s the uplifting beats of ‘Jee Lu Main’, the emotional depth of ‘The Mother’s Song’, or the inspiring notes of ‘I’ll See You In The Morning’, each of these tracks carries a sweet and heartwarming message, their lighthearted yet deeply meaningful tunes making them perfect for moments of reflection and warmth. The Mehta Boys music album, much like the film, is a celebration of life, love, and family—told through melodies that touch the soul.

The Mehta Boys music album features an incredible lineup of talented singers, composers, and lyricists including Ankit Dayal, Jishnu Guha, Raghav Meattle, Shillong Chamber Choir, Siddharth Basrur, Gulraj Singh and Manoj Yadav who have come together to craft timeless soundtracks.

The Mehta Boys Music Album entails the following songs:

•  Jee Lu Main is composed by Jishnu Guha and Raghav Meattle, sung by Ankit Dayal and Jishnu Guha with lyrics by Raghav Meattle
• The Mother’s Song is composed by Ibarisha Lyngdoh, Keviseno Terhuja, and Riewbankit Lyndem and sung by the Shillong Chamber Choir with lyrics by Bhargav Purohit
• I’ll See You In The Morning is composed by Gulraj Singh, sung by Siddharth Basrur with lyrics by Manoj Yadav

An Irani Movietone LLP production in association with Chalkboard Entertainment LLP, The Mehta Boys marks Boman Irani’s directorial debut. Boman Irani has also co-produced the film with Danesh Irani, Vikesh Bhutani, and Shujaat Saudagar, and co-written it with Academy Award winner Alexander Dinelaris. The film features a versatile cast including Boman Irani, Avinash Tiwary, Shreya Chaudhry, and Puja Sarup in pivotal roles. The Mehta Boys is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video on February 7, in India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide.

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Hyderabad, January 28, 2024: The Institute of Vision Rehabilitation (IVR) of the L V Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI) received the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Divyangjan Welfare on January 26, 2025, at Raj Bhavan. The award included a citation and a cheque for rupees two lakhs. The esteemed recognition highlights the institute’s exceptional contributions to empowering, including, and supporting persons with disabilities (Divyangjan). As one of the very few eye institutes in the world that has integrated vision rehabilitation into its functional arms since inception (in 1992) the award is a recognition of LVPEI’s dedication, diligence, progress, performance and impact.

The first series of the Governor’s Awards for Excellence 2024 — the first of its kind in the history of Raj Bhavan (Telangana State) recognizing the outstanding contributions of individuals and organisations, were presented on the 76th Republic Day at Raj Bhavan, Hyderabad.

The award was received by Dr Beula Christy, Head – IVR from Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, the Honourable Governor, in the presence of Mr. Revanth Reddy, the Honourable Chief Minister, Telangana High Court acting Chief Justice Sujoy Pal, and Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy and other dignitaries.

The award acknowledges the Institute’s dedicated efforts over the past five years (since 2019) to enhance accessibility, provide essential services, advocate for rights, and create opportunities for Divyangjan to lead dignified and independent lives. Key initiatives include direct support, inclusive education, skill development, and innovative solutions to address challenges faced by persons with disabilities, ensuring their full participation in all aspects of life. The award is a recognition of our commitment to build a more inclusive and equitable society and whose efforts inspire others to contribute to the welfare and upliftment of Divyangjan.

The Governor’s Awards for Excellence in the field of Divyangjan Welfare recognized individuals and Institutions/ Organizations/Societies/ Trusts for their extraordinary contributions to the empowerment, inclusion, and welfare of persons with disabilities (Divyangjan).

Impact of Institute of Vision Rehabilitation since inception

• 280,000+ people with vision impairment and their families assisted across the network
• 600+ individuals empowered through job placements and self-employment
• 50,000+ children supported with educational guidance
• 60,000+ children with vision loss and disabilities received therapeutic interventions
• 1,00,000+ individuals received low vision care
• 4 PhDs and 100+ publications to its credit

Gemeria Hair is an authentic, empowering, and innovative brand, inspired by India’s rich heritage. Rooted in the heart of its story is the sacred temples of South India where hair is donated as a gesture of devotion and humility. Such strands of 100% virgin Indian hair are ethically sourced and crafted by skillful Indian artisans into the finest wigs, extensions, and hairpieces.

The meticulous process-from gentle cleaning and sorting to crafting luxurious hair products-seems to ensure that the natural texture and integrity of each strand are preserved. This commitment to craftsmanship celebrates India’s artisanal heritage while setting global standards in quality and durability.

Gemeria’s ethos is deeply rooted in the ‘Vocal for Local’ movement, which advocates for the use of Indian ingenuity in a market often characterized by synthetic imports. As the brand is completely made in India, it ensures authenticity while also supporting local economies and thus creating jobs and preserving traditional skills.

From women looking for daily elegance to those who are regaining confidence after hair loss, Gemeria Hair products empower people all over the world. As a global leader in ethically sourced, handcrafted hair solutions, Gemeria is a testament to the seamless blend of tradition, innovation, and sustainability.

Proudly Made in India, Gemeria Hair continues to transform lives, one strand at a time, offering a story of beauty, confidence, and connection that resonates globally.

National, January 28, 2025: Axell, a renowned Indian luxury watch brand, announces the launch of the Tejas Pilot Watch, commemorating India’s 76th Republic Day. Inspired by the indigenously developed Tejas fighter jet, this exceptional timepiece embodies the spirit of India’s self-reliance and innovation, marking a milestone under the Make in India initiative.

The Tejas Pilot Watch is a seamless blend of style, functionality, and national pride, designed for aviation enthusiasts, patriots, and collectors alike. Each detail pays homage to India’s aerospace achievements, with bold aesthetics and high-precision engineering that reflect Axell’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship.

The Tejas Pilot Watch honors the remarkable journey of India’s Tejas fighter jet, the nation’s first self-manufactured combat aircraft. Available in two distinguished designs, a black dial with a leather strap and a grey dial with a stainless steel strap, the watch celebrates the synergy between innovation and tradition.

Key Features and Specifications

• This timepiece is equipped with world-class features, ensuring durability, functionality, and timeless appeal:
• 316L Surgical-Grade Stainless Steel Case: Offers unmatched resilience and a premium feel.
• Double-Domed Sapphire Crystal: Scratch-resistant with anti-glare coating for optimum visibility.
• Seiko Mecaquartz Movement: Combines the precision of quartz with the elegance of mechanical movement.
• Chronograph Functionality: Features a central 60-second hand and sub-dials for minute and 24-hour tracking.
• Indian Air Force Tribute: A sub-dial displays the Air Force insignia, paying homage to India’s aerospace prowess.
• Luminous Markers and Hands: Enhanced with Japanese lume for superior readability in low-light environments.
• Unidirectional Rotating Bezel: Adds functional versatility and a tactile design element.

The Tejas Pilot Watch strikes a fine balance between aesthetics and functionality. The black dial variant with its leather strap exudes timeless sophistication, while the grey dial with a stainless steel strap showcases modern elegance. Each watch is delivered in premium packaging, making it a perfect keepsake or gift for collectors and aviation aficionados.

“We are not just celebrating a fighter jet, we are celebrating India’s remarkable journey towards self-reliance and its unwavering commitment to innovation,” says Yash Khullar, Founder of Axell. “The Tejas Pilot Watch is not merely a tribute to the Tejas fighter jet, it symbolizes India’s progress in the fields of technology, defense, and manufacturing. This timepiece is a representation of our collective achievements, reflecting the boldness and vision that characterize India’s growth on the global stage. With the Tejas Pilot Watch, we honor not just the excellence of Indian aerospace engineering but also the spirit of innovation that drives us forward. By blending cutting-edge design, precision, and craftsmanship, we’ve created a luxurious, high-performance watch that encapsulates the pride of our nation. This watch serves as a lasting reminder of India’s potential and its global aspirations, standing as a symbol of excellence, pride, and the future of Indian innovation.”

 

Child actor Tiyanshika Sengar has joined the cast of the popular Sun Neo show Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya as Radha, following a 6-year leap in the story. Tiyanshika, known for her charming presence in ad shoots, is making her debut on the show as Radha, a loving daughter and a fun, smart young girl with a special bond with her father. Her addition is all set to bring a fresh dynamic to the narrative, making it even more engaging for viewers.

Tiyanshika shares her excitement about her new journey, “I’m so happy because I’m going to be a part of the show Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya! Before this, I did some ad shoots, but this is my first show where I’m going to play Radha. Radha is really smart, and she makes lots of fun videos for Instagram. She loves her papa a lot and shares everything with him, just like how I share everything with my papa! I’m so excited because I get to shoot with Ashish uncle. He is so much fun and always makes me laugh. He does a lot of masti with me, and I really enjoy it!”

After a 6-year leap, what will Vaishnavi and Karthik’s lives look like? Will they ever reunite, or will Chhathi Maiyya help Vaishnavi find her way back to Karthik? Or will there be a surprising new twist in their story? To find out, keep watching Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya on Sun Neo, every Monday to Sunday at 7 PM

Mumbai, 28 January 2025: Enter the world of The Storyteller, a mesmerizing film that will both tug at your heartstrings and awaken your imagination. Premiering on Disney+ Hotstar on January 28, 2025, this enchanting film is inspired by Satyajit Ray’s classic short story Golpo Bolo Tarini Khuro. With its themes of friendship, personal growth, and the profound impact of storytelling, it offers a rich and evocative experience that feels both timeless and intimate. Directed by the acclaimed Ananth Narayan Mahadevan, the film features an exceptional ensemble cast, including the incomparable Paresh Rawal, the brilliant Adil Hussain, the iconic Revathy, and the talented Tannishtha Chatterjee. The Storyteller weaves a delicate balance of humor, warmth, and emotional depth, reminding us of the extraordinary stories that shape our lives and leave a lasting imprint on our hearts.

Director, Ananth Mahadevan says, “Working on The Storyteller was truly a deeply personal journey for me. The beauty of Satyajit Ray’s story lies in its timeless essence, and to bring it to life with such an incredible cast was nothing short of magical. Stepping into the genial mind of Ray and attempting to visualize the film as he would, was the real challenge.Disney+ Hotstar, with its far-reaching platform, offers an intimate connection with audiences, and I felt that sense of closeness throughout the entire process. I’m excited for people to watch the film and share in the warmth, wisdom, and emotions that have made this film so special to me. I hope it resonates with everyone the way it has with me.”

Paresh Rawal said, “Playing Tarini Khuro was like stepping into a world of wisdom, wit, and wonder. This story isn’t just a tale—it’s a journey of emotions that stays with you long after it ends. I’m overjoyed that The Storyteller will now reach homes through Disney+ Hotstar, and I can’t wait for everyone to experience the magic, the humor, and the heart of this film. It’s a piece of my soul I’m sharing with the audience.”

Adil Hussain said, “The Storyteller is so much more than a film—it’s a heartfelt celebration of the stories that shape us and the connections that make us human. Being a part of this beautiful journey has been an honor, and I’m overwhelmed with joy knowing it will now touch lives through Disney+ Hotstar. I hope it brings warmth, laughter, and meaning into everyone’s lives, just as it did for us while making it.”

Revathy said, “This is one of those rare films that speaks straight to the heart. The Storyteller reminds us of the healing power of stories, the beauty of human connections, and the timeless wisdom they carry. Knowing that this incredible journey will now unfold for audiences on Disney+ Hotstar fills me with so much emotion. I hope it touches your hearts, inspires you, and stays with you as it did with me.”

Get ready to step into a world where stories aren’t just told—they come alive and touch your heart most beautifully. The Storyteller isn’t just a film; it’s a heartfelt journey filled with magic, emotions, and unforgettable moments that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

This much-celebrated movie comes to life under the skilled production of Jyoti Deshpande, Salil Chaturvedi, Succhanda Chatterjee, and Shubha Shetty under the production company of Jio Studios, Purpose Entertainment & Quest Films. The film’s enchanting and whimsical vibe is beautifully elevated by its soulful soundtrack, crafted by the talented team of Hriju Roy.

Mark your calendars for 28th January 2025, and join us on Disney+ Hotstar to experience this extraordinary tale that celebrates the timeless power of stories to inspire, heal, and transform.