Chinese Food Festival at Grand Mercure Mysore
An unforgettable culinary adventure and a festive celebration await at Grand Mercure Mysore’s La Uppu restaurant. From February 7th-9th, 2025, indulge in a feast of authentic Chinese and Southeast Asian flavors, capturing the essence of prosperity and good fortune. The festivities reach their peak with a Chinese New Year brunch on February 9th, the perfect way to share delicious food and good company.
A feast for the senses awaits, from zesty Seafood Laksa and delicate Vietnamese Spring Rolls to bold Cantonese Stir-Fried Lamb and the exquisite Gai Pad Med Mamuang, Chef Pradip and his team present a culinary journey through Asia. We’ve also reimagined traditional Chinese New Year recipes with the finest seasonal ingredients, creating unforgettable dining experiences from elegant dinner to a vibrant brunch.
Gather your friends and family for a feast at La Uppu! Groups of five or more enjoy a 20% discount, making it the perfect spot for sharing delicious Chinese cuisine and creating lasting memories in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
What: Chinese Food Festival at Grand Mercure Mysore
Where: La Uppu, Grand Mercure Mysore
When: 7th February, 2025 and 8th February, 2025
7pm – 11pm (Dinner)
9th February, 2025
1pm – 4pm (Brunch)
Fixderma Expands into Babycare with the Launch of Hoopoe
Gurgaon, February 4, 2025 – Fixderma, the popular dermatologist-prescribed skincare brand, is excited to announce the launch of its new babycare product line, Hoopoe. The Hoopoe range is a collection of gentle, safe, and effective products specifically designed to care for and protect babies’ delicate skin.
The new range includes seven dermatologist-tested products such as the Moisturizing Lotion, Massage Elixir, Gentle Hair & Body Wash, Anti-Itch Lotion, Mild Sunscreen, Anti-Rash Face Cream, and Diaper Rash Cream. These products combine natural ingredients and advanced scientific formulations to offer hydration, protection, and relief from common skin issues like dryness, eczema, and diaper rashes.
“At Fixderma, we are committed to offering solutions that address the needs of every individual, from babies to adults. With Hoopoe, we have extended our expertise into a completely new category, with products specifically created to care for and protect the skin of our littlest customers. We understand the importance of using gentle yet effective products for babies, and Hoopoe delivers just that – safe, soothing formulations backed by science.” said Shaily Mehrotra, CEO and Co-founder, of Fixderma.
“With Hoopoe, we’re not just launching another babycare range—we’re setting a new standard. Parents today want reassurance when it comes to their baby’s skincare, and that’s exactly what we’re offering. Our products have been rigorously tested, and we have certifications to back their safety and efficacy—something no other brand in the category has right now. It’s about trust, and we’re proud to bring that level of credibility to the babycare space.” said Mr. Anurag Mehrotra, Chairman, of Fixderma.
“We see tremendous potential by expanding into the babycare segment. Fixderma is not only diversifying its product portfolio but also positioning itself as a trusted brand for families seeking high-quality, effective solutions for their children’s skincare needs. This launch marks a strategic milestone in our growth trajectory, as we continue to innovate and strengthen our market presence globally.” said Mr. Preetam Jena, CMO & eCommerce Head, Fixderma
The Hoopoe babycare range is now available for purchase on Fixderma’s official website: www.fixderma.com.
Established in 2010, Fixderma is a leading dermatologist-prescribed skincare company known for its innovative approach to skin health. Started with a clear vision of – Fixing your Derm, Fixderma has garnered global recognition, exporting to over 40 countries. Their premium skincare range serves as a bridge between prescription-based treatments and over-the-counter cosmetics, addressing various skin issues such as aging, acne, dryness, and hyperpigmentation. Today, Fixderma is trusted by over 15,000+ dermatologists who prescribe our products to their patients. We’re also proud to be preferred sellers across leading marketplaces and recently opened our first flagship store in Gurgaon in 2024, bringing our promise directly to consumers.
Employees of Provident Housing Flock to Lalbagh for 4th Annual Clean-up Drive
Bengaluru, 4 February 2025: Over 200 employees of Provident Housing Limited, one of India’s leading large-scale community developers, held a clean-up drive at Lalbagh on 27th January 2025. The drive commenced just hours after the end of the popular Lalbagh Flower Show, held every year in January. This year, the 217th edition of the show saw over 4.75 lakh visitors, with 37,890 visitors on the last day.
Speaking about the initiative, Mallanna Sasalu, CEO of Provident Housing Limited, said,” This is the fourth consecutive year that Provident Housing employees have gathered at Lalbagh, one of our city’s most important lung spaces, to clean up the garden after the hugely popular flower show. Through efforts like this, we aim to create a meaningful impact and inspire communities to embrace sustainable practices.”
Volunteers collected discarded wrappers, plastic bottles, and other non-biodegradable waste through the afternoon, after which the collected garbage was handed over to the Lalbagh cleaning staff for segregation and disposal as per guidelines. The entire drive was conducted in coordination with Dr. M Jagadeesh, Joint Director of Horticulture (Parks and Gardens), Lalbagh, Bengaluru, and his team.
“The efforts made by the Horticulture Department in curbing the entry of plastics and other non-biodegradable waste into Lalbagh is laudable. This was apparent during the drive as we witnessed reduced amounts of litter on the premises,” Sasalu added.
Through initiatives like the Lalbagh clean-up drive, the company continues to lead by example, championing environmental conservation as a responsible corporate citizen.
Prime Video to Stream ‘Game Changer’ with Ram Charan & Kiara Advani on Feb 7th
MUMBAI, India, February 04, 2025- Prime Video, India’s most loved entertainment destination, today announced the exclusive global streaming premiere of Global Star Ram Charan’s latest film, Game Changer. Directed by widely acclaimed filmmaker S Shankar, in his Telugu debut, this high-octane political actioner is produced by Dil Raju under his banner, Sri Venkateswara Creations. Headlined by Ram Charan in a promising dual role, the star-studded cast also boasts Kaira Advani, Anjali, S.J. Suryah, Srikant, Sunil, Jayaram, and Samuthirakani in pivotal roles. The big-ticket movie will be available to stream exclusively on Prime Video in India and across 240 countries and territories worldwide from February 7 in Telugu, with dubs in Tamil and Kannada. Game Changer marks the latest addition to the Prime membership. Prime members in India enjoy savings, convenience, and entertainment, all in a single membership year.
Game Changer follows Ram Nandan, a principled IAS officer from Visakhapatnam who takes on the herculean task of uprooting the deep-seated corruption within the political system. But his efforts pit him against the formidable Bobbili Mopidevi, a ruthless and power-hungry politician determined to become the Chief Minister by any means necessary. As Ram delves deeper into the web of corruption, he uncovers the vast and sinister nexus of those who will stop at nothing to protect it. With constant threats and danger at every turn, Ram remains undeterred in his mission to expose the rot and ensure justice prevails. Packed with high-stakes action, gripping drama, and a fierce battle between power and principle, the film explores one man’s unshakable will to rewrite the rules.
Rockwell Automation Releases 2024 Sustainability Report
New Delhi, February 4, 2025 – Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, published its 2024 Sustainability Report, which highlights the company’s sustainability strategy, outcomes, and progress to help build sustainable customers, a sustainable company, and sustainable communities.
“Sustainability is core and central to our vision to drive innovation and create long-term value for our stakeholders in India. We are dedicated to aligning our efforts with global sustainability goals to contribute to a better future. By promoting collaboration and utilizing advanced technology, we aim to create lasting positive impacts on Indian industries and communities,” said, Dilip Sawhney, Managing Director, Rockwell Automation India.
In India, Rockwell Automation is empowering rural communities through the “Economic and Social Development of Indian Village Through Technology-Enabled Dairy Farming” project, launched in partnership with ISAP India Foundation and eVerse.AI in Antargaon, Maharashtra. In its first year, the initiative led to a 15%-20% increase in milk production, improved milk quality, and higher household incomes, showcasing the impact of climate-resilient and water-conscious practices.
Additionally, the “Re-Establish” initiative for promoting workplace diversity in India, has supported women in restarting their careers after a hiatus by providing training, mentorship, and workplace collaboration. Over six years, the program has increased the representation of women in Rockwell’s workforce from 16% to 25%, fostering diversity and innovation.
The report underscores Rockwell’s broader sustainability efforts, including investments in local communities and support for manufacturers to reduce energy use, optimize water resources, and minimize waste, enabling operational efficiency and environmental stewardship.
RBL Bank Launches Shiksha Scholarship Program for Undergraduates
Mumbai, February 04, 2025: RBL Bank, one of India’s leading private sector banks, proudly announces the launch of RBL Bank Shiksha Scholarship 2024-25, an initiative aimed at providing financial support and mentorship to students from economically weaker sections pursuing full-time undergraduate courses across India.
The Shiksha Scholarship Program addresses critical barriers to education by offering financial assistance of up to INR 20,000 per student per year, or the actual course fees, whichever is lower. Over a three-year undergraduate program, eligible students can receive up to INR 60,000, based on their annual performance evaluation.
The program will empower up to 300 students over three years. In addition to financial assistance, the scholarship includes a structured mentoring program where RBL Bank employees and external mentors will guide students and offer professional insights to support their growth and future career readiness. The scholarship amounts will be disbursed directly towards tuition fees
Speaking on the launch, R. Subramaniakumar, Managing Director and CEO, RBL Bank, said, “At RBL Bank, we believe in the power of education to transform lives and create a brighter future for individuals and communities. The RBL Bank Shiksha Scholarship program is a step forward in supporting deserving students across India in their educational journey. By providing financial assistance and mentorship, we aim to empower the next generation of leaders who will contribute to the country’s growth and development. We are proud to play a role in shaping the future of education in India and are committed to making a meaningful impact through this initiative.”
Avantika Gupta, CEO of OPG Power Ventures, Highlights Government’s Vision for ‘Viksit Bharat 2047
Avantika Gupta, CEO, OPG Power Ventures
“The Government has presented a pragmatic roadmap that builds a robust foundation for a ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ while also deploying stringent guardrails to ensure a low carbon output.
The emphasis on fortifying India’s energy security while also realizing committed decarbonization goals, shall accelerate India’s sustainable growth paradigm in the decades to come.
Focus on innovation, and strengthening domestic manufacturing in critical areas such as grid-scale batteries, electrolyzers, solar cells, wind turbines, and nuclear power will be instrumental in shaping India’s energy future. The establishment of five National Centres for Excellence in Skilling, incentives for electricity distribution reforms, and strategic amendments to the Atomic Energy Act will further enable a robust, self-reliant energy ecosystem.
By incentivizing states to drive reforms and expanding intrastate transmission capacity, we are moving toward a stronger, more efficient power sector. The additional borrowing allowance for states committed to these reforms reflects the government’s dedication to long-term stability and sustainability. These measures shall strengthen the financial health of power companies and pave the way for a resilient energy infrastructure that supports economic growth and industrial expansion across the country.
The launch of the Nuclear Energy Mission, with a ₹20,000 crore outlay for Small Modular Reactors, and the vision to develop 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047, marks a transformative step towards a clean energy transition. Additionally, the exemption of critical minerals like cobalt, lithium-ion battery waste, and zinc from basic customs duty will enhance domestic supply chains and accelerate India’s energy security.”
Ankush Bahuguna Wows at Spoken Fest Mumbai with Teri Favourite Kaun Hai
Asia’s largest spoken word festival, Spoken Fest by Kommune, unveiled its much-anticipated 7th edition in Mumbai, this weekend. The mega event honours the power of words, combining diverse forms like stories, music, poetry, theatre, Shayari, comedy, creative workshops, art installations, and immersive experiences—fostering a dynamic and inclusive space for fans across the spectrum. Among the many celebrated artists gracing the stage was digital sensation and content creator Ankush Bahuguna.
The festival took the city by storm, filling the air with raw energy, unfiltered stories, and voices that demanded to be heard. At the Spoken Fest, Ankush delivered a deeply personal and poignant tale about the unbreakable bond between siblings. His story, titled “Teri Favourite Kaun Hai?”, was a heartfelt tribute to his two elder sisters—Badi Didi and Chhoti Didi—who shaped his life in more ways than he ever imagined.
Ankush began by painting a vivid picture of his childhood—a constant tug-of-war for attention in a household where comparisons between siblings were part of the daily routine. “Life in the Bahuguna household was chaotic and melodramatic. Aur ek sawaal tha jo us ghar mein har waqt goonjta tha; at least mere kaanon mein goonjta tha. Dono didiyon ka mujhse poochhna: ‘Anki, bata teri favourite kaun hai?’” (Translation: Life in the Bahuguna household was chaotic and melodramatic. And there was one question that always echoed in that house; at least it echoed in my ears. Both my sisters would ask me: ‘Anki, tell me, who’s your favourite?’). Ankush recalled this with a laugh, setting the tone for a narrative brimming with humour.
He shared that his sisters (Teena and Cheena) turned their winter holidays into a full-fledged radio war, with their makeshift show, Bahuguna Ki Awaaz. “Pehle dono didiyaan ladti thi ki kal tu RJ bani thi, aaj main RJ banungi.”
(Translation: First, both my sisters would fight over who got to be the RJ that day).
But the real battle wasn’t over the mic; it was over his loyalty. Despite being the unwitting celebrity guest of their show, they still expected Ankush to pick a side. “Aur guts dekho, yeh sab karne ke baad bhi they expected me to have a favourite out of them! Mera favourite toh aam papad tha bhai! Because … You see, saste nashe run in the Bahuguna blood”, he declared with a grin.
(Translation: And look at their guts—after making me do all this, they still expected me to have a favourite among them! My favourite was aam papad, because… you see, cheap thrills run in the Bahuguna blood.)
Yet, no amount of dodging could save him from the inevitable question that loomed over his childhood. “Seriously though! Yeh sawal tha mera poora bachpan. ‘Who is your favourite one?’ And even at that age, my inner voice was like ‘Chup kar chup kar! Matt jawaab de, tu phasega’”, he admitted.
(Translation: Seriously though! This question haunted my entire childhood. ‘Who is your favourite one?’ And even at that age, my inner voice was like ‘Shut up, shut up, don’t answer—you’ll get trapped.’)
After that life became more complicated and so did the competition between his sisters. First, his elder sister, Teena, boldly declared she wanted to marry a man she liked, and while their parents initially opposed, citing their stance against love marriages —she eventually got her way. But the competition didn’t stop there. His younger sister, Cheena, eager to outdo her elder sibling, converted to another religion and planned an interfaith marriage. With their parents firmly against it, Ankush and his elder sister secretly helped her marry in court, making sure she tied the knot without anyone’s knowledge.
Just as the dust was settling from the previous drama, Ankush’s elder sister dropped a bigger bomb—she got divorced, becoming the first in the family, throwing the household into chaos. And that’s how, his younger sister, who had once been the rebellious one, suddenly became the favourite child, but that didn’t last long. A heated argument on Facebook over a family issue quickly had her dethroned from the top spot.
Things took a darker turn when Ankush’s mom discovered that their elder daughter, Teena also consumes alcohol. And as if that wasn’t enough, in true ‘MY TURN’ fashion, his elder sister declared she was remarrying, delivering a double strike in the ongoing competition of life between the two. Now, to top it all off, Ankush’s younger sister, always with fragile health, found herself battling kidney failure at just thirty-five, and was hospitalized.
Cheena’s illness became a harsh reminder of how quickly life could change. She moved back in with Ankush’s family, and once again, the two siblings found themselves roommates. But this time, life had altered them in ways they could never have anticipated. He reminisced, “I used to notice unki skin har baar thodi aur different lagti thi. But smile same thi! Aur pata hai kya same tha? Hum dono ka memes mein taste. Din bhar hum faltu ke memes dekh ke hanste. I told you! Saste nashe, melodrama, aur faltu memes, run in the Bahuguna blood.”
(Translation: I noticed her skin seemed a little different every day, but her smile never changed. And, you know what stayed the same? Our shared love for memes. We spent hours laughing at silly memes together. I told you! It’s the same cheap thrills, melodrama, and silly memes that run in the Bahuguna blood.)
Before the elder one could make her next move, Cheena played her trump card. Ankush was away for a shoot and that’s the day she left. He didn’t even get to meet her.
A month before Rakhi, Cheena had told him, “Anki, mujhe pahad dekhne hain…mujhe pahad dekhne le jaa.” (Translation: Anki, I want to see the mountains… take me to the mountains.) And, something in him had said, “Anki, karle yeh trip. Yeh wali mat postpone karna.” (Translation: Anki, just do this trip. Don’t postpone this one.) They planned the Rakhi trip to Dehradun, but Cheena didn’t make it that far. Maybe a month was just too long a wait for her.
But Chhoti and Ankush still went. His younger sister wasn’t there, but her Janamaz was. They laid it out in a valley with the most breathtaking view. Ankush recalled, “Us trip par kisi ne nahi poochha, ‘Anki, bata teri favourite kaun hai?’”— a question that had once been inescapable now felt hollow, lost into the silence.
And yet, suddenly, he still hears her – “’Sunn, Bittu ki shaadi mein Teena kya pehen ke aayi thi?’ Ab DNA thodi badlega…..Kyunki saste nashe, melodrama, faltu memes aur endless gossip run in the Bahuguna blood. And so does smiling in the face of tragedy.”
(Translation: ‘Hey, what did Teena wear at Bittu’s wedding?’ Now, the DNA isn’t going to change, right? Because cheap thrills, melodrama, silly memes, and endless gossip run in the Bahuguna blood. And so does smiling in the face of tragedy.)
Bahuguna’s story, rich in humour, vulnerability, and raw emotion, reminds us that life is a series of unexpected twists. It often leaves us without closure, but it gifts us with moments, voices, and laughter that linger. Perhaps that’s how love endures—through the echoes of shared joy and sorrow.
Top Property Investment Hotspots in MMR for 2025
As the Indian real estate market continues its upward trajectory, 2025 is expected to be a landmark year for property investments. With growing infrastructure developments, improved connectivity, and evolving buyer preferences, certain locations in Mumbai stand out as top investment destinations. Industry leaders share insights on why these areas are poised for significant growth.
Mulund: The Gateway to Luxury Living
Known as the ‘Prince of the Suburbs,’ Mulund offers a perfect mix of connectivity and lifestyle amenities. Mr. Nishant Deshmukh, Founder and Managing Partner of Sugee Group states, “Mulund’s proximity to both Thane and Mumbai’s central areas, along with its green surroundings and premium residential projects, makes it highly attractive for those seeking a balance between luxury and convenience. Further, its strong social infrastructure and upcoming projects are reshaping it into a hub for modern urban living.”
Borivali: The Urban Oasis
Borivali’s seamless connectivity and thriving social infrastructure have made it a favorite among investors. Mr. Rohan Khatau, Director of CCI Projects notes, “Borivali’s proximity to Sanjay Gandhi National Park and its excellent connectivity to the rest of Mumbai and Thane make it a hotspot for families looking for a balanced lifestyle. The steady development of retail and recreational spaces in Borivali enhances its appeal as a vibrant urban oasis.”
Malad-Goregaon: Western Suburbs on the Rise
The Malad-Goregaon belt continues to see an uptick in demand, driven by infrastructure advancements and lifestyle enhancements. Ms. Shraddha Kedia-Agarwal, Director of Transcon Developers shares, “The area’s connectivity via the Western Express Highway and metro lines has drastically improved, enhancing its appeal. It’s a perfect blend of residential and commercial growth. With new-age developments, this area is becoming a preferred choice for young professionals and families alike.” Mr. Umesh Jandial, Chief Business Officer of Omkar Realtors adds, “Malad-Goregaon offers excellent rental yields and long-term value due to its growing IT, corporate and entertainment industry presence. The steady influx of working professionals ensures sustained demand for high-quality housing in this region.”
Panvel: The Emerging Investment Hotspot
Panvel has emerged as a prime destination for property investments, thanks to its strategic location and burgeoning infrastructure projects. Mr. Sandeep Sonthalia, CEO of Wadhwa Wise City, explains, “With the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport and the now operational Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, Panvel is becoming a hub of connectivity. The area offers a blend of affordability and future appreciation potential, making it an ideal choice for investors and end-users alike. We foresee Panvel evolving into a self-sufficient ecosystem with a balanced mix of residential, commercial, and retail spaces.”
Chembur: A Neighborhood of Transformation
Chembur’s transformation into a premium residential and commercial hub is undeniable. Mr. Govind Krishnan Muthukumar, Managing Director & Co-Founder of Tridhaatu Realty comments, “With excellent road and metro connectivity, Chembur offers a mix of modern housing and traditional charm. The area’s redevelopment projects and enhanced infrastructure make it a promising destination for long-term investments.”
Sion: Central Location with High Potential
Sion’s strategic location in the heart of Mumbai makes it a sought-after area for real estate investments. Mr. Samyak Jain, Director of Siddha Group remarks, “Sion offers unmatched connectivity to major parts of the city and is witnessing a steady rise in premium residential developments. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking central living with modern amenities. The area’s ongoing transformation into a premium real estate destination is attracting a new wave of discerning buyers.”
With a mix of established hubs and emerging hotspots, Mumbai’s real estate market in 2025 promises diverse opportunities for investors. Whether it’s the affordability of Panvel, the luxury of Mulund, the convenience of Malad-Goregaon or the connectivity of Sion, each location offers unique advantages that cater to varied preferences and investment goals. As the city continues to evolve, these areas are set to redefine urban living and investment potential.
Britannia Launches Harry Potter Themed Biscuits with Warner Bros
National, 04 February 2025: Attention, witches, wizards, and Muggles alike! It’s time to fasten your seat belts and prepare to be spellbound—because Britannia is bringing magic to your snack time, giving you a chance to celebrate your love for Harry Potter in the most delicious way possible. Introducing Britannia’s Pure Magic Choco Frames – a Limited-Edition Harry Potter-inspired open choco biscuit crafted to delight your taste buds and transform everyday moments into indulgent celebrations inspired by the enchanting world of Hogwarts.
In a first-of-its-kind collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBGCP), Britannia has curated a sensory experience to delight all Harry Potter fans. Each of the five biscuits in a pack is inspired by the world of Harry Potter, bringing back fond memories of Hogwarts and featuring intricate designs of the four iconic houses: Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw, and Hufflepuff. But the magic doesn’t stop there— you may uncover a rare treasure: a biscuit embossed with the iconic Platform 9¾. With Britannia Pure Magic Choco Frames every bite takes you deeper into the world of choco indulgence.
Every Pure Magic Choco Frame is a delightful combination of textures and flavours—a crisp biscuit topped with a luscious bar of velvety chocolate. This limited-edition collection isn’t just a treat; it’s a collectible, perfect for gifting to fellow Harry Potter fans or indulging yourself.
Siddharth Gupta, General Manager – Marketing, Britannia Industries, says “At Britannia, we are committed to constantly innovating and finding new ways to delight our consumers while evolving our portfolio to meet changing preferences. Our collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBGCP) marks a significant milestone as we bring a Harry Potter-inspired indulgence for fans through our Pure Magic Choco Frames. This strategic partnership is an attempt to bring the iconic legacy Harry Potter together with Britannia’s expertise in crafting indulgent treats for everyone. It’s more than just a product; it’s an opportunity to create a memorable moment, that resonates with fans across generations”
Harry Potter fans, don’t let this extraordinary opportunity vanish! The Britannia Pure Magic Choco Frames is available only for a limited time on Blinkit or your nearest Reliance stores. Grab your pack now, and let the magic unfold—because when it comes to Harry Potter, the magic is forever.