Cargill Unveils Innovative Food Solutions at AAHAR 2025
National, 5th March 2025: Highlighting its role as an innovative and trusted partner for innovation and growth for the Indian food industry, at AAHAR 2025, Cargill showcased its diverse range of applications and products with a focus on the indulgence categories such as snacks, bakery, confectionery, dairy and ice cream, catering to the evolving preferences of Indian consumers who are increasingly health- and value-conscious yet unwilling to compromise on taste and experience.
Re-emphasizing the theme of “The whole world of possibilities,” this year, Cargill booth was inaugurated today by Simon George, Country President and Managing Director, Cargill Food South Asia along with Tarak Bhattacharya, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Mad Over Donuts.
Showcasing the versatility and unique applications of products in the Cargill portfolio, Cargill’s Corporate Chef Anip Kumar and team conducted live demonstrations at the Cargill AAHAR booth, whipping up Millet Cookies, Berry Fudge, and Sourdough Chips recipes, amongst heavy footfall from visitors. In total, over 50 chef-curated baked applications were on display over the course of the exhibition.
“We are excited to deliver comprehensive solutions that empower our customers to grow their business through innovative products and cost-efficient solutions and at the same time, connecting consumers to the nutrition they need and food they love, building a more food secure world. Through AAHAR, we aim to strengthen our partnerships and reinforce Cargill’s position as a trusted food solutions provider in the industry,” said Simon George, Country President and Managing Director, Cargill Food South Asia
Innovative Functional Blends
Cargill is showcasing its unique and innovative functional blends for snacks, bakery, confectionery, dairy and ice cream industries for the first time for Indian B2B players at AAHAAR 2025. Designed to enhance product quality, taste, and performance across multiple categories and diverse requirements. These product innovations include:
- First of its kind dent corn-based modified starch which helps create brighter color and appearance in sauces, enhancing the sensorial acceptability of fresh tomato aroma and smooth taste and texture.
- A cost-effective pectin replacer that can be an effective substitute for expensive pectin used in gummies and jellies, catering to the value conscious consumers
- Other innovations like bake-stable filling that provides optimum flowability and superior mouthfeel post baking, starch based functional systems that adds crispiness in snacks and reduces oil absorption during frying, functional systems for ice creams and frozen desserts that reduces ice crystal growth during storage, improves melting properties, limits shrinkage and enhances overall sensorial acceptability.
Cost-Saving Zone
Cargill also featured a dedicated Cost-Saving Solutions Zone at its booth at AAHAR this year, where visitors explored innovative product alternatives like cookies made with NatureFresh[1] Professional Elite Choice. These solutions are designed to help Indian bakers reduce production and ingredient costs while maintaining superior product quality and taste, ensuring customer delight in the evolving food landscape.
New launches
Cargill presented a range of new products for both B2B and B2C segments this year, including:
- Gemini Plus Trans Fat-Free Vanaspati – Recently launched in Kerala, Trans Fat-Free Vanaspati is developed for HORECA users, a game-changer that is allowing the preparation of the most delectable Biriyanis, Sweets (Laddoos), and Parottas.
- NatureFresh Professional Elite Choice – A premium aerated Cookie Fat NatureFresh Professional Elite Choice provides better yield and saves costs due to its high flour absorption capacity of up to 10%.
- NatureFresh Professional Lite – A butter-flavored vegetable fat designed for exotic bakery applications such as croissants, Danish pastries, and brownies. It is 100% vegetarian and Argemone oil-free.
The booth served as a dynamic platform for chefs, bakers, foodservice brands, small traders, MNCs, and customers, offering an immersive experience into Cargill’s innovative product portfolio and global food expertise. Additionally, Cargill offered visitors a half-day immersive R&D session at the Cargill Innovation Center (CIC) in Gurgaon from the 5th to the 7th of March. This initiative provided an exclusive opportunity to witness firsthand how science and insights drive food innovation at Cargill.
Through AAHAR 2025, Cargill reaffirmed its commitment to the Indian food industry, delivering cutting-edge products and solutions that combine innovation, quality, and sustainability. Through its extensive product portfolio and customer-centric approach, Cargill continues to empower food businesses with the expertise they need to thrive in this ever evolving and competitive market landscape.
Espire Hospitality Streamlines Operations with STAAH’s Smart Solutions
Mumbai: March 5th, 2025 – STAAH, a leading global hospitality solutions provider, has partnered with Espire Hospitality Ltd., a renowned group that operates a chain of hotels and resorts in some of India’s most scenic holiday destinations, to help streamline its wide-spread operations and optimise revenue.
Espire Hospitality operates premium brands like the Six Senses Fort Barwara, Zana Luxury Resorts and the Country Inn Hotels & Resorts in locations like Bhimtal, Jim Corbett, Mussoorie, Rajasthan, Goa, Vrindavan and Amritsar, that offer a perfect blend of comfort, luxury and natural beauty. As part of its ongoing expansion, the group is set to establish a presence in Raipur and Ghaziabad in a few months.
Despite its growth, Espire Hospitality faced significant operational challenges, that impacted the efficiency, performance and overall revenue management across their entire portfolio. “Distribution issues, rate management complexity and limited reporting insights were huge causes of concern. Partnering with STAAH has been a game-changer for us. Their user-friendly interface and wide range of effective products have helped us enhance our overall distribution and revenue management strategies and stay on top of our game in a highly competitive market,” said Mohd Aamir, Head – Revenue and E-Distribution, Espire Hospitality.
STAAH’s suite of technology-driven solutions has played a pivotal role in addressing some of the key challenges. The Max Channel Manager offers real-time synchronization of availability and rates across multiple channels ensuring greater visibility and smarter revenue management. The STAAH Booking Engine helps in driving commission-free direct bookings to the hotel’s website, increasing profitability. The WatchMyRate widget utilizes dynamic rate intelligence to optimize pricing strategies and maintain a competitive edge, while the Get Google feature helps boost online visibility by connecting hotels to Google’s free and paid booking links, increasing direct traffic and reservations.
“Optimizing operations for multiple properties across different locations without affecting the bottom line is a top priority for hotel chains. We are delighted to be able to support the Espire Hospitality group in achieving this through our innovative solutions, enabling seamless operations and sustainable growth,” said Shoaib Ali, National Sales Head – India, STAAH.
Amaan & Ayaan Ali Bangash Unveil Holi Album with Malini Awasthi
India, March 2025– Preeminent sarod maestros Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash announce the forthcoming release of their meticulously crafted Holi-themed album ‘Colors And Celebrations’ on March 10, 2025. This sophisticated musical offering represents a remarkable confluence of classical and folk traditions, featuring an extraordinary collaboration with Padma Shri recipient and renowned folk virtuoso Malini Awasthi, affectionately known as the folk queen of India.
‘Colors And Celebrations’ presents five expansive, intricately composed pieces that capture the multifaceted spirit of Holi: ‘Holi Hues (Hori Re Rasiya)’, an exuberant celebration of spring’s arrival; ‘Divine Celebration (Hori Khele Raghuveera)’, a devotional piece honoring Lord Krishna’s legendary Holi festivities; ‘Spirited Splashes (Rang Darungi)’, a playful, rhythmically complex composition; ‘Crimson Flush (Sakhi Solah Hazaar)’, a contemplative exploration of color symbolism; and ‘Colours of Love (Rasiya Ko Naar)’, a romantic interpretation of Holi’s emotional resonance.
Amaan Ali Bangash states, “This album represents our artistic interpretation of Holi’s profound cultural significance, beyond the surface revelry to explore its deeper spiritual dimensions. Each composition deliberately weaves multiple thematic elements—from the triumph of good over evil to the celebration of divine love between Radha and Krishna, to the universal joy of renewal that comes with spring’s arrival.”
Ayaan Ali Bangash elaborates, “Our approach was to create a complete sensory experience through sound. The interplay between sarod and voice mirrors the interaction between colour and canvas during Holi celebrations. We’ve employed specific ragas that evoke particular emotional colours—from the serene tranquillity of morning ragas to the passionate intensity of evening melodies. Working with Malini ji has been transformative, as her profound understanding of folk traditions brings authenticity and emotional depth that complements our classical framework.”
Malini Awasthi, whose illustrious career spans over three decades preserving and elevating the folk traditions of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, reflects on the collaboration, “Working with Amaan and Ayaan has been a profound artistic dialogue that transcends conventional genre boundaries. What emerges is neither purely classical nor folk, but rather a new musical language that honours both traditions of Awadh Brij and Banaras while creating something entirely distinctive. The compositions we’ve created together speak to the universal emotions that Holi represents—joy, devotion, playfulness, and the eternal cycle of renewal.”
Dr. Lakshmi Subramanian, eminent musicologist and cultural historian, notes in the album’s detailed liner notes: “What the Bangash brothers and Malini Awasthi have achieved with ‘Colors And Celebrations’ is nothing short of extraordinary—a sophisticated reimagining of traditional Holi repertoire that maintains scholarly rigor while achieving remarkable emotional accessibility. The innovative use of rhythmic patterns, meticulously researched lyrics, and the seamless integration of sarod and vocal techniques represents a significant contribution to the evolving language of Indian classical music in the 21st century.”
Amaan and Ayaan Ali Bangash, who represent the seventh generation of the revered Senia Bangash lineage established by their legendary father, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, have consistently pushed the boundaries of the sarod tradition while maintaining its essential integrity. This release follows their critically acclaimed collaborative projects including ‘Sand And Foam: Music Inspired by Kahlil Gibran’ (2023), their pioneering work with Grammy-nominated vocalist Krishna Das on ‘Peace Mantra: Loka Samastha’ (2022), which bridged Hindu and Sufi devotional traditions; and their groundbreaking experimental album ‘Amalgam’ (2023) with the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
The sarod luminaries’ recent musical ventures demonstrate remarkable versatility, from the contemplative ‘Morning Ragas’ (recorded at dawn in the historic Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur) to the boundary-pushing ‘Prophets Of Prose’, a bold fusion project with Chilean jazz vocalist Claudia Acuña and American rapper Caliph. Their October 2024 trilogy of singles—’Ram Dhun’,’Payoji Maine’ and the ambitious ‘Diwali Project’—showcased their continued commitment to making classical Indian music accessible to contemporary global audiences while preserving its spiritual essence.
‘Colors And Celebrations’ was recorded using a pioneering spatial audio technique at the legendary Yash Raj Studios in Mumbai, employing rare vintage microphones and custom-built acoustic environments to capture the nuanced tonal qualities of the sarod alongside Malini Awasthi’s powerful vocal performances. The production process incorporated both traditional analog recording methods and cutting-edge digital technologies, resulting in an immersive listening experience that places the audience at the center of the musical narrative.
The album release anticipates the Bangash brothers’ highly anticipated summer 2025 international tour, which includes a residency at London’s prestigious Wigmore Hall. The July 12th performances will feature a morning collaboration with acclaimed British violinist Jennifer Pike exploring the intersection of Western classical and North Indian musical traditions, followed by an evening concert featuring their father, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, in a rare family performance showcasing three generations of sarod mastery. The tour continues with appearances at the Salzburg Festival, Lincoln Center’s Mostly Mozart Festival, and the Esplanade in Singapore.
The album will be available on all major streaming platforms and for digital download beginning March 11, with a specially mastered audiophile-quality 180-gram vinyl edition, featuring original artwork by renowned painter Paresh Maity, scheduled for release in April 2025. A limited collector’s edition will include a hardbound book with scholarly essays on the history of Holi music, rare photographs, and detailed musical notation of the compositions.
IIT Roorkee Launches S²-STEP2025 & IPSC-2025 for Space Sustainability
Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India – Match 05, 2025: The Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) inaugurated the prestigious International Conference on ‘Space for Sustainability: Science, Technology, Education, and Policy’ (S²-STEP2025) alongside the 6th Indian Planetary Science Conference (IPSC-2025) . Organized by the Center for Space Science and Technology (CSST), IIT Roorkee , this conference aims to drive global discussions on sustainable space technologies, planetary exploration, and academia-industry collaborations .
As the world grapples with profound global challenges, the intersection of space exploration, science education, policy formulation, and technological innovation stands as a beacon of hope for sustainable societal development . S²-STEP2025 serves as a dynamic platform to explore the transformative potential of space technologies in shaping a resilient and equitable future . The conference brings together experts, researchers, policymakers, and educators to deliberate on the symbiotic relationship between space exploration, science education, policy formulation, and cutting-edge technological advancements . Running concurrently, the 6th Indian Planetary Science Conference (IPSC-2025) serves as a dedicated forum for recent advances in planetary science , covering topics such as the atmosphere, surface, and interior of planetary bodies in the solar system , planetary processes, and early solar system evolution .
The conference aims to build a robust space education ecosystem , equipping stakeholders with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the emerging opportunities and challenges in the rapidly expanding space sector while raising awareness about the societal benefits of space-based technologies and services . It will facilitate deliberations on the latest advances in space sciences , particularly their applications in disaster mitigation, climate change adaptation, and sustainable development . A key focus will be on evaluating technological advancements in launch vehicles, satellites, and related infrastructure , emphasizing cost-effectiveness and innovation in space-based services. Additionally, the conference will drive policy discussions at national and international levels , shaping the future of space governance and sustainability frameworks . Ultimately, experts will explore planets, moons, and asteroids for their potential future habitability and resource utilization , ensuring that space missions and planetary studies are conducted with sustainability at their core.
The conference was inaugurated by Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman, ISRO & Secretary, Department of Space (DoS) , as the Chief Guest , and Dr. Young Ho Kim, Director, India Korea Center for Research and Innovation (IKCRI) , as the Guest of Honor . Prof. KK Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee , presided over the event.
In his keynote address, Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman, ISRO & Secretary, Department of Space (DoS) emphasized, “The future of space exploration hinges on sustainable and responsible practices. India is at the forefront of developing cutting-edge technologies that will drive our planetary missions and deep-space explorations.”
Dr. Young Ho Kim, Director, India Korea Center for Research and Innovation (IKCRI) highlighted the role of international cooperation, stating, “Collaborative research in space science and technology is the key to ensuring sustainability. The India-Korea partnership can significantly contribute to global space exploration efforts. He further emphasized on the Advancements in Aerospace Technology and Policy: Strengthening India-Korea S&T Cooperation. ,
Welcoming the dignitaries, Prof. Sanjay Upadhyay, Head, CSST & Conference Chair , said, “This conference serves as a platform to bring together experts from diverse fields to shape the future of space sustainability.”
Delivering the presidential address, Prof. KK Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee, remarked, “At IIT Roorkee, we are committed to advancing research in space technology, planetary sciences, and sustainable development. This conference is a step towards fostering innovation and capacity building in these domains.”
The session also featured insights from Prof. UP Singh, Deputy Director, IIT Roorkee , and Dr. Vinod Kumar, Director, IN-SPACe , who emphasized the crucial role of academia-industry collaboration in strengthening India’s space sector.
On March 5, 2025 , the conference will feature an Interactive Open Session on ‘Indian Space Startups and Industry’ , organized in collaboration with IN-SPACe .
, The session will be addressed by Dr. Vinod Kumar, Director, IN-SPACe , who will highlight the evolving startup ecosystem in India’s space sector.
, Dr. Durgesh Pant, Director General, Uttarakhand State Council for Science & Technology (UCOST), will discuss support of Uttarakhand government for innovation and entrepreneurship in space technology.
, Other distinguished speakers include Mr. Prateek Jain, IAS, Managing Director, SIIDCUL who gave an overview of Uttarakhand Industries and possibility of Space domain development in the State and Prof. Dipankar Banerjee, Director, Indian Institute of Space Science & Technology (IIST) who gave glimpse of Space Education in India as perceived at Indian Institute of Space Technology.
The conference will continue with technical sessions, keynote lectures, and panel discussions on critical topics such as planetary missions, AI in space, and sustainability in the space industry.
The S²-STEP2025 & IPSC-2025 conference is a significant step in aligning with the Government of India’s vision for Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) and the National Space Policy, which emphasizes indigenous innovation, sustainability, and global leadership in space exploration. As India accelerates its space missions including Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan, and upcoming planetary expeditions this conference reinforces the critical role of academia-industry-government collaboration in achieving long-term sustainability in space. IIT Roorkee, with its strong foundation in cutting-edge research and innovation, continues to contribute toward shaping climate-resilient infrastructure, AI-driven space solutions, and next-generation space technologies. Through such initiatives, IIT Roorkee reaffirms its commitment to supporting India’s technological advancements and global aspirations in space exploration.
India & Netherlands Boost Ties with INR 52B FDI Inflows Rubix Report
Mumbai, 5th March 2025 – Rubix Data Sciences, a leader in risk management and monitoring services has released a comprehensive report on the Netherlands, highlighting its strong economic growth and deepening trade and investment ties with India. The report serves as a crucial guide for Indian businesses looking to leverage the Netherlands’ strategic position as a global trade hub.
India and the Netherlands have witnessed a remarkable surge in trade relations, making the Netherlands India’s 3rd largest export destination in FY2024, a sharp rise from 7th in FY2020. During these five years, Indian exports to the Netherlands grew at an impressive 28% CAGR, driven largely by refined petroleum, which now makes up 64% of India’s total exports to the country. FDI inflows from the Netherlands into India between April 2000 and September 2024 stood at USD 52 billion, making it India’s 4th largest foreign investor. The report also sheds light on the Netherlands’ key sectoral strengths, including its dominant services sector, which accounts for 77% of the economy, and its position as a global leader in agricultural exports.
“India and the Netherlands have built a strong trade and investment bond, and the numbers speak for themselves,” said Mohan Ramaswamy, Co-founder and CEO at Rubix Data Sciences. “With the Netherlands now India’s 3rd largest export market and a major investor, Indian businesses have a real opportunity to expand their reach. Whether it is tapping into trade flows or attracting investment, those who understand the trends and act fast will stay ahead. Our report breaks it all down, giving businesses the insights they need to make the most of this growing partnership.” he added
As the Netherlands continues its economic development and strengthens its trade partnership with India, Rubix Data Sciences is dedicated to delivering essential data-driven intelligence to support businesses navigating these evolving opportunities.
Entertainers Cricket League Season 2 A Month of Action with Top Celebs
Delhi, 5th March 2025: The highly anticipated second season of the Entertainers Cricket League (ECL) is set to kick off on 5th March 2025. The new iteration of the league will feature a total of eight teams, battling it out for the ultimate glory. The teams participating in ECL 2025 include Haryanvi Hunters, Lucknow Lions, Mumbai Disruptors, Dynamic Delhi, Bangalore Bashers, Kolkata Superstars, Chennai Smashers, and Rajasthan Rangers, each led by renowned captains such as Elvish Yadav, Anurag Dwivedi, Munawar Faruqui, Sonu Sharma, Abhishek Malhan, Pushkar Raj Thakur, Mahesh Keshwala, and Zayn Saifi, respectively. The new season will broadcast live on Sony Ten 5 channels and ECLT10’s YouTube channel.
With the finale scheduled for 16th March 2025, the league will feature a total of 32 matches at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, ensuring a packed schedule of action and excitement for fans. With an addition of two new teams, the league will feature 161 content creators from various industries, including tech, finance, infotainment, gaming, fashion, and lifestyle.
With the upcoming season, Entertainers Cricket League will continue its partnership with Sony Sports Network for the broadcast of the league. Fans can catch all the on-ground action on Sony Ten 5 channels and ECLT10’s YouTube channel. Fans eager to witness their favourite content creators perform, can get tickets on District.in.
Following the success of the first season, Entertainers Cricket League attracts and onboards sponsors across verticals. HaaNaa becomes the official Title sponsor. The league will be Powered and Co-Powered by Waves and Vision11, respectively. Additionally, 1XBAT will be the Official partner for ECL Season 2 and Fusion Cars will be the Luxury car partner.
Talking about the schedule launch, Himanshu Chandnani, Founder, Entertainers Cricket League, said, “The response to ECL Season 1 was beyond anything we could have imagined. What started as a passion project to merge cricket with entertainment quickly turned into a movement, with fans rallying behind their favorite creators and players. Seeing the energy on the ground reaffirmed our belief in the format. This year, we’re taking it a notch higher, expanding to eight teams, increasing the number of matches, and ensuring that every game is an unforgettable experience. With three matches a day and an action-packed schedule, ECL Season 2 is set to redefine digital sports entertainment.”
Sharing his views on the schedule launch, Anil Kumar, Founder, Entertainers Cricket League, said, “What made ECL truly special last season was the passion of the players and the overwhelming support from the fans. The camaraderie, the rivalries, and the sheer energy on and off the field turned it into something bigger than just a cricket league. This season, with more teams joining the mix and most of our players returning, we’re building on that same spirit. We’ve worked hard to make Season 2 even more dynamic, and we can’t wait to see the competition unfold. The goal has always been to create an experience where fans feel connected to the game in a way they’ve never seen before, and this season promises just that.”
Date Teams Time S.No March 5th Haryanvi Hunters v/s Rajasthan Rangers 6PM Match 1 March 5th Lucknow Lions v/s Mumbai Disrupters 9PM Match 2 March 6th Dynamic Delhi v/s Chennai Smashers 3PM Match 3 March 6th Bangalore Bashers v/s Kolkata Superstars 6PM Match 4 March 6th Haryanvi Hunters v/s Mumbai Disrupters 9PM Match 5 March 7th Rajasthan Rangers v/s Kolkata Superstars 3PM Match 6 March 7th Haryanvi Hunters v/s Dynamic Delhi 6PM Match 7 March 7th Lucknow Lions v/s Bangalore Bashers 9PM Match 8 March 8th Mumbai Disrupters v/s Dynamic Delhi 3PM Match 9 March 8th Lucknow Lions v/s Kolkata Superstars 6PM Match 10 March 8th Bangalore Bashers v/s Rajasthan Rangers 9PM Match 11 March 9th Kolkata Superstars v/s Mumbai Disrupters 3PM Match 12 March 9th Rajasthan Rangers v/s Dynamic Delhi 6PM Match 13 March 9th Haryanvi Hunters v/s Chennai Smashers 9PM Match 14 March 10th Bangalore Bashers v/s Dynamic Delhi 3PM Match 15 March 10th Rajasthan Rangers v/s Chennai Smashers 6PM Match 16 March 10th Haryanvi Hunters v/s Lucknow Lions 9PM Match 17 March 11th Kolkata Superstars v/s Dynamic Delhi 3PM Match 18 March 11th Lucknow Lions v/s Rajasthan Rangers 6PM Match 19 March 11th Bangalore Bashers v/s Chennai Smashers 9PM Match 20 March 12th Lucknow Lions v/s Chennai Smashers 3PM Match 21 March 12th Rajasthan Rangers v/s Mumbai Disrupters 6PM Match 22 March 12th Haryanvi Hunters v/s Bangalore Bashers 9PM Match 23 March 13th Lucknow Lions v/s Dynamic Delhi 3PM Match 24 March 13th Mumbai Disrupters v/s Chennai Smashers 6PM Match 25 March 13th Haryanvi Hunters v/s Kolkata Superstars 9PM Match 26 March 14th Bangalore Bashers v/s Mumbai Disrupters 6PM Match 27 March 14th Kokata Superstars v/s Chennai Smashers 9PM Match 28 March 18th QUALIFIER 1 3PM Match 29 March 18th ELIMINATOR 6PM Match 30 March 18th QUALIFIER 2 9PM Match 31 March 19th FINAL 9PM Match 32
Save with Trust: Sundaram Finance Launches Digital Deposit Facility
Tuesday, March 04, 2025 – Sundaram Finance Ltd, one of India’s most trusted NBFCs, has introduced a Digital Deposit facility, making savings simpler, safer and more accessible than ever. For over 70 years, Sundaram Finance has been a name synonymous with trust and financial security. With a strong base of over one lakh depositors, Sundaram Finance Deposits have been AAA-rated by ICRA and CRISIL for well over three decades, ensuring the highest level of safety and reliability. Opening a Deposit with Sundaram Finance is just a click away! Customers can conveniently invest and manage their deposits digitally through a seamless and secure process, enjoying peace of mind and attractive returns.
Digital Deposits from Sundaram Finance allow investors to make their money work from the comfort of their homes with the option to open, manage and monitor their deposits at their convenience. Sundaram Finance has made the opening of Digital Fixed Deposits an easy process by downloading the KYC details from CERSAI. This online transaction can be initiated through the company portal and the SF Next app.
“Sundaram Finance has been a trusted partner in financial security for generations. With the launch of our Digital Deposit facility, we are making the investment process simpler and more seamless, so customers can now complete their deposit in just five easy steps and receive an E-TDR instantly. We also encourage individual depositors to add a nominee to ensure financial security. Also, depositors can opt for Auto-maturity payment. Backed by a AAA rating and decades of trust, Our endeavour is always to ensure consistent service standards to facilitate absolute peace of mind” said, Dhandayuthapani S, Head – Deposits
Start your journey towards secure savings today!
Visit www.sundaramfinance.in to open Deposit online.
5 Destination Wedding Trends for 2025
By; Vaibhav Sadhwani, Co-founder, Behind The Scene Weddings – Destination Wedding Consultants
As the craze for destination wedding is growing, so is the desire amongst couples to experience an exquisite, unique wedding that will be remembered for a lifetime. As a wedding consultant, we understand the emotions of the couple and the family. Thus, we curate beautiful weddings at picturesque locations. From royal weddings in palaces of Rajasthan to adventure filled ones in Himalayas to beach weddings in Goa and Kerala, there is something for everybody. Here are the top trends that will trend in 2025, and give goal-worthy photos and videos for Instagram.
Royal weddings
Palaces and castles are designed for couples seeking royal treatment at historic cities like Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur. One can also consider visiting Europe’s castles for an unforgettable experience. Planners are being asked to create grand wedding ceremonies in regal locations. The majesty of the past is flawlessly combined with modern luxury here. The royal experience includes extravagant lavishness, gorgeous surroundings, horse-drawn carriages, grand entrances, chandeliers, and gilded draperies. The wedding feast banners complement it. The event includes both local and international cuisine options, as well as live entertainment by folk artists. Weddings are typically multi-day affairs that include pre-wedding functions and post-wedding celebrations, allowing couples to fully immerse themselves in the royal experience.
Beach weddings
Beaches, which offer casual elegance by the sea, are always a popular choice. Today’s couples choose a more immersive experience that combines natural beauty and a well-crafted event, rather than a traditional sunset ceremony. Decorations such as macrame or floral arrangements can enhance the atmosphere. Cosy decor is in high demand due to its romantic appeal. Wedding planners are now focussing on individuality. For nature enthusiasts, we offer handcrafted floral walks, reception under the stars, seaside dining with live music, and bonfire sessions. These aspects reflect the relaxed and easy-going nature of beach weddings, making each event distinctive.
Cultural fusion
Destination weddings allow couples to incorporate many cultures and customs into their wedding celebrations. Couples are increasingly embracing cultural fusion. They customise their wedding by incorporating local customs from their destination. These weddings beautifully portray a culture across borders. The wedding planners expertly blend cultures and traditions to create a harmonious occasion. A couple may have a typical wedding and then exchange vows in the local language.
This style incorporates imaginative event structures into weddings. Wedding feasts celebrate varied cuisines, styles, and cultures.
Adventure infused weddings
Destination weddings are becoming more about the overall experience, not just the ceremony or reception. Wedding planners create schedules that allow couples to enjoy a destination as part of their wedding. Pre-wedding activities could include yacht cruising, mountain climbs, or a mini-vacation atmosphere. Making weddings a shared adventure is a popular idea among couples. Some couples are planning adventurous weddings, such as saying their vows while ziplining through the jungle. Wedding planners are cooperating with activity guides to ensure a safe experience.
Sustainable celebration
Eco-friendly weddings are popular this season and will be for a while. Nowadays, many couples are concerned about the environment and want to contribute. Wedding planners are implementing sustainable strategies to create environmentally friendly weddings. These weddings are both fashionable and environmentally sustainable, with local organic food and minimal usage of single-use plastic. Current trends include repurposing dried flowers, using eco-friendly vintage furniture, and using biodegradable confetti. There is a greater emphasis on lowering carbon footprint. Couples are selecting destinations that prioritise sustainability. Eco-friendly resorts are in high demand, and wedding planners are cooperating with vendors who share similar goals. Couples are exploring many eco-friendly options, including sustainable bridal apparel.
Shakti Kapoor Sells Juhu Apartment for Rs. 6.11 Crore
4th March 2025 : Bollywood actor Shakti Kapoor has sold his apartment in Silver Beach Heaven Co-operative Society, Juhu, Mumbai, for Rs. 6.11 crore, according to property registration documents reviewed by Square Yards. The transaction was registered in December 2024.
Juhu, one of Mumbai’s most prestigious and sought-after residentiall areas, is home to several Bollywood celebrities. The locality is known for its scenic beach, upscale restaurants, and proximity to business hubs like Andheri and Bandra. It also boasts excellent connectivity with the Western Express Highway and the Mumbai Metro network. Bollywood stars like Varun Dhawan, Madhu Mantena, and Sajid Khan, also own apartments in Juhu, as per Square Yards’ analysis of IGR property registration documents.
As per the IGR property registration documents reviewed by Square Yards, the apartment sold by Shakti Kapoor has a built-up area of 81.84 sq. m. (~881 sq. ft.). The transaction incurred a stamp duty payment of Rs. 36.66 lakh and registration charges of Rs. 30,000.
Shakti Kapoor, is a well-known Indian actor recognized for his roles in both villainous and comic characters in Hindi cinema. With a career spanning several decades, he has appeared in several films. In the 1980s and 1990s, Kapoor frequently collaborated with actors Asrani and Kader Khan, forming a popular comic and villainous trio in over 100 films. Known for hits like Raja Babu, Andaz Apna Apna, and ChaalBaaz, he won the Filmfare Award for Best Comedian for Raja Babu (1995). In addition to his film career, he was also a contestant on the reality show Bigg Boss in 2011.
ReiseMoto Launches Premium Gear Store in Bengaluru
Bengaluru, 4th March, 2025: Bengaluru, a city known for its technologically proficient and adventure enthusiasts, is now home to ReiseMoto’s all-encompassing premium motorcycle gear and accessories brand store. Designed in a 2,700+ sqft. space, the store caters to riders of all kinds—from daily commuters to off-road explorers. Featuring a vast selection of premium gear, with over 1,000 SKUs across helmets, jackets, gloves, and other specialized riding gear and accessories. Showcasing 20+ top brands, including renowned European and Indian names like Acerbis, SPIDI, Tucano Urbano, Ixon, Viaterra, Carbanado, and more, alongside Reise’s in-house products, this store is the ultimate destination for one of India’s most prominent and growing riding communities—offering everything a motorcyclist needs under one roof.
This new store, located at K.P. Aspire, Ground Floor, 755, 80 Feet Road, 4th Block, Koramangala, provides riders in and around Bengaluru the opportunity to see, touch, and experience these premium European and Indian brands firsthand, ensuring they get the best fit and functionality for their riding needs.
“With the launch of our Bengaluru store, we are strengthening our commitment to the Indian riding community by offering an unmatched range of riding gear, accessories, and premium tyres,” said Mr. Yogesh Mahansaria, Founder & Managing Director, ReiseMoto. “Our goal is to create a trusted and engaging retail space where riders from across South India can explore, connect and elevate their riding experience with the best products available.”
More than just a retail space, the Bengaluru store is designed as a community hub, bringing together riders through expert sessions, product launches, exclusive showcases and meetups—making it a central part of the city’s dynamic riding culture.
ReiseMoto’s expansion strategy includes a robust online and offline presence, with plans to open more stores in key metropolitan areas and Tier-1 cities across India. The Bengaluru store is a major milestone in this journey, setting a new benchmark for biking gear and accessories in the country.