Agritech Pavilion Sparks Transformation at Startup Mahakumbh, Accelerating ‘Viksit Bharat@2047’

New Delhi; March 20, 2025: Member of the Organizing Committee of Startup Mahakumbh and Chair of the Agritech panel, Founder and Vice Chairman of Aavishkaar Group, Vineet Rai, will be anchoring the Agritech Pavilion at the 2nd Edition of the Startup Mahakumbh, the world’s largest celebration of innovation and Entrepreneurship, set to take place from April 3–5, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. C M Patil, Chief Executive Officer of KrishiKalpa Foundation will be the Co-Lead of the Agritech Pavilion.

With the focal theme as ‘Startup India @ 2047—Unfolding the Bharat Story’, the convening will feature 3,000+ startups, 1,000+ investors and incubators, 10,000+ delegates from 50+ countries, creating an unparalleled platform to shape the future of India’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Supported by Next Bharat Ventures, Aavishkaar Capital and Intellecap, part of the Aavishkaar Group, and IIT Kharagpur, the Agritech pavilion will celebrate startups and technologies driving sustainable agriculture and improving livelihoods across rural India.

The overwhelming participation and response from entrepreneurs and innovators alike from the previous edition has resulted in a more interactive and creative format for this edition. With ~100 promising startups alone being showcased, there will also be an ‘Agri-Bazaar’, bespoke Masterclasses, and exciting discussions with Agritech luminaries at the Summit. As a 1st time addition to the Summit, the ‘Startup Maharathi Challenge’, with a funding pool for INR 30Cr, will provide an opportunity for visionary startups to showcase transformative solutions, secure nation-wide recognition, and access the right funding and mentorship to scale.

 “Startup Mahakumbh as the name suggest is the grand celebration of Indian Startup ecosystem. As the member of Startup Mahakumbh Organizing Committee and as Chair and Lead of the Agritech Pavilion, we look forward to welcoming exciting new startups to showcase their transformative capacity, specifically in the space of Agriculture and Rural Development. As we chart the course towards ‘Viksit Bharat@2047’ the Agritech pavilion will showcase how Indian farmers are sharing their experience with the startup founders and their technological prowess to paint a new narrative around food security, job creation and income enhancement. At the Agritech Pavillion, farmers and stock market experts, venture funds, Investment bankers, agritech startups and farmer producer companies, would weave a rich tapestry of insights, ideas, investments and impact.” shared Vineet Rai, Founder and Vice Chairman, Aavishkaar Group.

Aavishkaar Group is also delighted to present NABARD as the lead partner of the Agritech pavilion. As the pre-eminent institution of choice for building rural India, the partnership will shed light on the latest advancements, disruptive technologies, and opportunities reshaping the future of agriculture in India.  NABARD is India’s apex development finance institution promoting sustainable, equitable agriculture and rural development. This pivotal collaboration highlights NABARD’s commitment to nurturing the agri-sector’s growth and innovation. At the pavilion, NABARD will also showcase 30 startups from their cohort, showcasing the dynamic and transformative potential within India’s agri startup ecosystem.

 Shaji KV, Chairman, NABARD said“Innovation and entrepreneurship in rural India are the cornerstones of inclusive development. By fostering startups, we empower communities, strengthen agriculture, and pave the way for a sustainable future, NABARD will continue to provide support for initiatives that propel the agritech ecosystem to make strides in the agriculture space.  At Startup Mahakumbh, we aim to highlight the contributions of the enterprises we support and scale, to our agri-ecosystem. We look forward to a brighter, more sustainable future for agriculture in India.”

The ‘Entrepreneur-first’ agenda will ensure that Startups get unprecedented access to one-on-one mentoring sessions, live pitches, best practices on Governance, and the opportunity to participate and win Awards for their startup innovations. The Startup Mahakumbh agenda has been curated to facilitate a vibrant exchange of ideas and best practices at the forefront of agricultural innovation in India.

The comprehensive program is curated by an Organizing Committee featuring prominent leaders from India’s startup ecosystem. Led by FICCI, the key organizers include ASSOCHAM, Nasscom, TiE, IVCA and Bootstrap Foundation. The event is well supported by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), reinforcing its commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship at a national level.

Indegene Expands Operations, Launches European Hub in London

Bengaluru, March 20, 2025: Indegene, a digital-first life sciences commercialization company, today announced the launch of a new center in London. This aligns with the company’s long-term growth strategy in Europe, reiterating its commitment to enable life sciences clients in the region to be future-ready.

Indegene’s Europe-based clients can now benefit from this center as a strategic hub for consulting and commercialization solutions and modernize their operations with an AI-first approach. The company is strengthening its existing employee base in the region, with skillsets spanning a wide range of areas – consulting, creative, data and analytics, engineering and customer experience.

“London is a vital healthcare, technology and business innovation hub, with a great talent pool – making it an important market for life sciences companies in the region”, said Manish Gupta, Chairman and CEO, Indegene. “With our new center, we are better positioned to dial up innovation and engagement with our clients here and help them holistically improve their commercialization processes with an AI-first approach and stay ahead of the curve.”

Inside Bollywood’s New Creative Playground—A Paradise for Filmmakers & Artists

Mumbai, 20th March 2025 – Recreate Spaces, the ultimate playground for Mumbai’s creative and cultural movers and shakers! Nestled in the heart of Andheri, this all-in-one hub has become the go-to destination for everything from star-studded photoshoots to binge-worthy OTT productions. With clients ranging from Nawazuddin Siddiqui to Masaba Gupta, Vijay Varma, and Debina Bonnerjee, it’s no surprise Recreate Spaces is making waves in Bollywood and beyond.

Whether it’s a glamorous photoshoot with Dabboo Ratnani, an edgy social media campaign by Uorfi Jadav, or behind-the-scenes magic for Yash Raj Films, Recreate Spaces is where creative dreams take flight.

We wanted to create a space that feels like an extension of your vision. From the lighting to the vibe, every detail is curated to inspire creativity,” shares Komal Kothari, founder of Recreate Space. “It’s amazing to see such incredible talent walk through our doors—from Dolly Singh to Bollywood Bubble, and even iconic productions like The Wedding Podcast. It’s proof that when you build something with passion, magic follows.”

What Makes Recreate Spaces a Cut Above

  • All-in-One Flexibility: From fashion and wedding shoots to virtual events, conferences, and workshops—every setup is customizable.
  • Sleek Amenities: Think fully equipped studios, chic makeup rooms, luxe lounge areas, and a high-speed internet setup perfect for live streams.
  • Endless Inspiration: The space reflects the energy of Mumbai’s hustle, designed to fuel creative brilliance.

Recreate Spaces offers a wide array of amenities designed for creative and professional use.

  • Coworking Stations: Flexible workspaces ideal for freelancers and teams looking for an inspiring environment.
  • Co-Working Cabins: Private cabins that provide a focused atmosphere for uninterrupted work.
  • Meeting Rooms with VC Facilities: Equipped with advanced audio-visual technology for seamless virtual meetings.
  • PR Events Venues: Perfect settings for press releases and promotional events.
  • Small Gathering Events: Intimate spaces designed for networking or casual meet-ups.

ZindagiKeRealHeroes: OPPO India’s F29 Series Campaign Applauds the Spirit of Everyday Warriors

New Delhi, 20th March 2025: OPPO India unveiled its latest campaign, #ZindagikeRealHeroes, honouring the unwavering resilience of everyday champions — from delivery agents and cab drivers to countless gig workers who confront daily challenges while serving society. The brand film captures the dynamic rhythm of their lives while positioning the new OPPO F29 Series as their trusted partner, engineered to deliver exceptional durability and seamless connectivity.

Launched across OPPO India’s social media, OTT, and other platforms, the film opens in the basement of a commercial building where two cab drivers struggle with poor connectivity. Meanwhile, another driver—having completed nine rides—receives a bonus alert for his tenth ride on his F29 smartphone. Empowered by the device’s 300% Network Boost, he secures the ride even in low-signal conditions, underscoring the role of the smartphone in providing dependable connectivity that supports daily livelihoods. The narrative then shifts to a bustling cloud kitchen, where a manager’s smartphone withstands an accidental spill of multiple beverages—remaining fully functional with a simple rinse, thanks to the F29 Series’ IP69, IP68, and IP66 ratings, protecting against 18 liquids.

From the cloud kitchen, the film follows a delivery agent who, despite navigating congested traffic and a sudden speed bump that dislodges his phone into a mud puddle, retrieves an undamaged device safeguarded by the Damage-Proof 360° Armour Body. In a touching moment, a child offers the delivery agent a glass of water, reinforcing the enduring spirit of community support. Collectively, these episodes highlight the resilience of millions of hardworking professionals who form the backbone of our society and positions the F29 Series as their reliable companion in every challenge.

Transteel Joins Forces with Deriveit & Vaibhav Inter Décor to Revolutionize Workspace Interiors

Bangalore, 20th March 2025: Transteela leading manufacturer of ergonomic office furniture, proudly announces their collaboration with Deriveit IT Innovations LLP and Vaibhav Inter Décor Pvt Ltd. This partnership aims at providing AI-powered, technology-driven, and precision-focused solutions for comprehensive design consultancy, design & build, and general contracting in commercial workspace interiors. 

With a strong commitment to sustainability, this strategic alliance will cater to corporate offices, educational institutions, hospitality, manufacturing units, and healthcare sectors. As part of its growth strategy, Transteel has set a target of achieving INR 100 crores in revenue within their first year of this new vertical. With a robust deal pipeline already in place, Transteel is strategically positioned to execute large-scale commercial workspace interior projects across various industries.

Commenting on this, Mr. Shiraz Ibrahim, Managing Director, Transteel, said, At Transteel, we are revolutionizing commercial workspace interiors by combining cutting-edge AI technology with sustainable solutions. This partnership reflects our commitment to innovation, efficiency, and excellence in workplace transformation. Our commitment to innovation, efficiency, and excellence ensures that every project we undertake transforms workspaces into dynamic, future-ready environments.”

Mr. Gururaj Raghavendra N, Founder, Deriveit IT Innovations expressed his thoughts on this partnership, said “We are excited to extend our partnership with Transteel in transforming commercial workspace interiors. This collaboration combines our expertise in AI-driven technology with Transteel’s leadership in ergonomic office furniture, allowing us to deliver cutting-edge, precision-focused solutions that elevate workspace design to new heights of innovation and efficiency.”

“Vaibhav Inter Décor is elated to collaborating with Transteel to revolutionize commercial workspace interiors. By combining our expertise in high-quality interior solutions with Transteel’s innovation-driven approach, we aim to deliver seamless, technology-enabled, and sustainable work environments that set new industry benchmarks in design and functionality” said Mr. Dhiraj Makkad, Founder, Vaibhav Inter Décor. 

NSD Commends Tribal Excellence with ADI RANG MAHOTSAV 2025: A Cultural Spectacle

New Delhi, March 20th, 2025: The National School of Drama (NSD) is all set to present the 7th Edition of ADI RANG MAHOTSAV 2025, an esteemed festival that celebrates the spirited and multifaceted art, culture and heritage of India’s tribal communities. This distinguished event will take place from March 21st to 23rd, 2025, at the NSD Campus in New Delhi, offering a rare and enriching experience of India’s indigenous traditions.

ADI RANG MAHOTSAV, a vibrant confluence of theatre, music, dance, seminars and craft, offers a unique platform to showcase the profound cultural, artistic and spiritual heritage that tribal societies have cultivated over centuries. The festival promises an extraordinary cultural experience that will bring together approximately 300 tribal artists from rural India, presenting their timeless creations and unique craftsmanship.

Under the guidance of Shri Chittaranjan Tripathy, Director of the National School of Drama, the Mahotsav seeks to nurture a deeper appreciation, cultivate meaningful connections and ensure that these priceless traditions are both celebrated and preserved for future generations. To achieve this, the festival will feature a vibrant array of 15 dance and music performances representing 13 states, alongside a captivating showcase of tribal craftsmanship from 11 states.

A standout highlight of the festival will be two enthralling theatre performances. ‘Bir Birsa’, hailing from Jharkhand, beautifully honours the legacy of the legendary tribal hero Birsa Munda. Meanwhile, ‘Bana Guda’ from Odisha, weaves an enchanting tale of bravery and folklore, giving audiences a bedazzling glimpse into the vivacious soul of tribal culture.

The festival will showcase a diverse array of dance and music performances, along with exquisite crafts, from various states across India. From Assam, the rhythmic Rabha dance will be accompanied by displays of Assamese handlooms and handicraftsAndhra Pradesh will present the energetic Gussadi dance, paired with intricate leather puppetry and crochet lace creationsArunachal Pradesh will highlight the vibrant Juju Jaja and Rikam Pada dances, while Gujarat will feature the colourful Siddi Dhamal and Padhar Dance, complemented by patchwork, copper bells and beadwork.

Himachal Pradesh will enchant audiences with the graceful Kinnauri Nat dance, and Jharkhand will showcase the traditional PaikaMardani, and Jhhomer performancesMadhya Pradesh will offer the lively Gudum Baja and a display of traditional herbal Tulsi products, bell metal Bharewa art, as well as paper mâché and sand craftsMaharashtra will present the Songi Mukhawate dance, accompanied by beautiful wire craft creations, while Rajasthan will showcase the lively Chakri dance alongside leather footwear craftsmanship.

Nagaland will present the War Dance and Odisha will feature the captivating Durua and Singari dancesTripura will bring to the stage the Sangrai Mog dance and West Bengal will offer the vibrant Natua dance, alongside traditional Bengal boutique jewellery, clay dolls and Santhal ritual artifactsTelangana will highlight the iconic Ekat Saree and Uttar Pradesh will showcase intricate horn and bone craftwork.

Ahead of the festival, Shri Chittaranjan Tripathy, Director of the National School of Drama, shared, “ADI RANG MAHOTSAV is not just a celebration of art and culture; it is an opportunity to showcase the deep-rooted connection between India’s tribal populations and the natural world, along with the timeless wisdom they embody. Through this festival, we aim to create an inclusive platform that brings these unique traditions to the forefront, allowing them to be experienced and appreciated by people from all walks of life. It is a significant step toward presenting tribal heritage to the world and ensuring its preservation for generations to come.”

Suresh Sundararajan Joins Mindsprint as Chief Executive Officer

India, March 20, 2025 – Mindsprint, a purpose-built digital solutions provider for global enterprises, has appointed Suresh Sundararajan as its Chief Executive Officer. A visionary leader with a strong track record in technology, sustainability, and digital strategy, Suresh will spearhead Mindsprint’s growth and innovation agenda, reinforcing its commitment to AI-driven solutions and strategic partnerships.

In his earlier role at Mindsprint as co-founder and chairman, Suresh played a key role in shaping the company’s growth strategy, and he was instrumental in driving the company’s transition from a captive to an independent service provider model. In his new role, he will focus on advancing AI-driven solutions that enhance operational efficiencies and empower businesses to stay ahead in an evolving digital landscape.

Suresh Sundararajan, CEO,Mindsprint

I am more convinced than ever that transformation journeys across industries will be led by AI, more so for our own business which is at a significant risk of disruption. At Mindsprint, I am advocating ‘AI First’ approach in everything we do and be at the forefront of an AI-led transformation that is reshaping industries. Our focus is on harnessing the power of AI to create intelligent, future-ready solutions that drive operational excellence and business growth. I am excited to lead this next phase of innovation, working alongside our talented teams, customers, and partners to deliver real impact for our clients,” said Suresh Sundararajan, CEO, Mindsprint.

With over two decades at Olam, Suresh has held key leadership positions, including Chief Digital and Information Officer and Chief Risk Officer. He has successfully spearheaded large-scale digitalization initiatives and pioneered data-driven decision-making. He is also a co-founder of Nupo Ventures, the incubation arm of Olam Group through which Jiva, a platform focused on providing end to end services to small holder farmers, and Terrascope, an AI/ML-driven climate technology SaaS platform helping medium and large enterprises in their decarbonization journey. His expertise in sustainability, digital strategy, and business innovation has been widely recognized across global industry platforms.

A Vision for AI-First Excellence

Under his leadership, Mindsprint will focus on:

  • Expanding AI-driven offerings – Delivering next-gen AI solutions, including predictive analytics and cognitive automation, to help businesses optimize decision-making and drive efficiency
  • Strengthening Strategic Partnerships – Collaborating with technology pioneers, academic institutions, and industry leaders to co-create innovative solutions
  • Building a Future-Ready Workforce – Fostering a culture of continuous learning and AI upskilling to keep Mindsprint’s talent at the cutting edge of technology
  • Accelerating Innovation & Growth – Driving AI-led entrepreneurship and forward-thinking solutions to position Mindsprint as a leader in digital transformation

As part of its strategic expansion, Mindsprint recently opened a new office in Australia, the addition of the Australian office enhances the company’s ability to effectively serve regional clients and drive business transformation through advanced technology solutions like Data Analytics, AI, SAP Transformation, Intelligent Automation, and Supply Chain Optimization to meet the unique needs of the market.

Turbostart Champions $2.5M Raise for Lighthouse PropTech with Dabur Family Office & Partners

Bengaluru, 20th March 2025—Turbostart, a global early-stage venture capital firm and accelerator, has announced a $1 million investment in Lighthouse PropTech as part of a $2.5 million funding round. The Dabur Family Office and several other HNI family offices joined the round, Valuing the company at $13.5 million. The investment will fuel Lighthouse PropTech’s expansion as it builds a technology-driven platform for luxury real estate transactions in India.

India’s luxury real estate market is experiencing unprecedented growth, with the segment expected to cross $100 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 21.81%. In the last five years alone, the share of high-end and ultra-luxury housing sales has doubled, driven by rising HNI wealth, digital-first transactions, and institutional investments. As a result, proptech innovation is accelerating, with India’s proptech sector attracting over $1.5 billion in funding and growing at 15-20% annually.

“India’s luxury real estate boom is being shaped by proptech innovation, and the numbers tell the story – high-end housing sales have doubled in top-tier cities, institutional capital is pouring into real estate technology, and AI-driven purchasing is now mainstream. Lighthouse PropTech is positioned at the heart of this transformation. With 40+ years of combined experience, Sumesh and Murtuza are bringing deep market expertise and a cutting-edge technology-driven vision to a sector that is primed for disruption. We are excited to back their journey as they scale to define the future of luxury real estate,” said Ganesh Raju, Founder of Turbostart Global.

“Luxury real estate is evolving rapidly, and the demand for seamless, tech-powered portfolio management has never been higher. Partnering with Turbostart gives us more than capital – it brings a high-impact ecosystem of strategic expertise, industry connections, and deep technology enablement. This partnership will accelerate our mission to redefine how HNIs and UHNIs buy, sell, and manage real estate in a market set to double in value over the next five years,” said Sumesh Mishra, Founder of Lighthouse PropTech.

Yash Chopra’s Lamhe Shines Again – A Grand Re-Release with PVR INOX

National, 20 March 2025: PVR INOX, India’s largest and most premium cinema chain, is set to rekindle the magic of one of Indian cinema’s most cherished films, Lamhe, as part of its Timeless Classics initiative. Bringing back the cinematic grandeur of Yash Chopra’s visionary storytelling, the film returns to theatres on March 21st, offering audiences an opportunity to relive this masterpiece on the big screen.

Originally released in 1991, Lamhe is an unconventional love story that challenged norms and redefined romance in Indian cinema. Featuring stellar performances by Anil Kapoor and Sridevi in a double role, along with Waheeda Rehman and Anupam Kher, the film remains a landmark in Bollywood history. From its picturesque Rajasthan landscapes to Shiv-Hari’s soul-stirring music, every element of Lamhe contributes to its everlasting charm.

Reflecting on the film’s continued relevance, Niharika Bijli, Lead Strategist, PVR INOX, said, “We are thrilled to have Mr. Yash Chopra’s Lamhe as part of our Timeless Classics initiative, reaffirming our commitment to reviving masterpieces on the big screen—where they truly belong.”

Anil Kapoor reminisced about Lamhe, calling it “one of the most timeless films” of his career. “Ahead of its time when it released in the ’90s, the film has only grown in love and admiration over the years and continues to be as relevant today. It remains one of my finest collaborations with Sridevi and Yash Ji. As it returns to cinemas, I deeply miss them, but I’m thrilled that a new generation will experience its magic on the big screen, while longtime fans can relive nearly three hours of pure nostalgia.”

From Viren’s poignant journey of love and longing to Pooja’s unwavering determination to bring happiness back into his life, Lamhe is a testament to the enduring power of love and destiny. As the film returns to theatres, it promises to enthral a whole new generation while evoking nostalgia among long-time admirers.

PVR INOX invites audiences to celebrate this timeless romance in all its cinematic splendor on March 21st. Don’t miss the chance to witness Lamhe once again, on the silver screen where it truly belongs.

Don’t Miss Out! ‘It’s Time to Vietjet’ with Fares Starting at Just INR 8,790

Mumbai, March 20, 2025 – Making air travel more affordable with its great deals, Vietjet Thailand launches ‘It’s Time to Vietjet’ promotion, with fares starting from INR 8,790 (inclusive of taxes and fees) on daily direct flights between Mumbai (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport) – Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi), domestic connecting flights to Thailand’s popular destinations—Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Krabi (via Bangkok, with check-through baggage service)—and the airline’s connecting international routes—Da Nang, Phu Quoc (Vietnam), Phnom Penh and Taipei (via Bangkok, with a convenient stopover and check-through baggage service). Book from March 18 – 22, 2025, for travel between April 20 – October 25, 2025 (excluding public holidays; terms and conditions apply) at www.vietjetair.com.

The special promotional tickets are applied to Vietjet Thailand’s daily direct flight services between Mumbai (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport) and Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi). Additionally, passengers can conveniently book domestic connecting flights from Mumbai to Thailand’s popular destinations—Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Krabi—via Bangkok with a seamless check-through baggage service. The airline also offers international connecting flights from Mumbai to Da Nang, Phu Quoc (Vietnam), Phnom Penh, and Taipei (via Bangkok), ensuring a smooth stopover with check-through baggage service. The promotional fares are also available on all other distribution channels, including www.vietjetair.com, mobile app “Vietjet Air”, via Facebook at www.facebook.com/VietJetThailand by clicking the “Booking” tab, as well as travel agencies and booking offices. Payment can be easily made with international debit/ credit cards.

Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, offers a captivating mix of tradition and modernity. Visitors can marvel at iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun while immersing themselves in the lively atmosphere of markets such as Chatuchak, night markets, and floating markets. Renowned for its world-class street food, including Pad Thai and mango sticky rice, the city also boasts exciting nightlife, diverse shopping experiences, and impressive hospitality. Whether for leisure or business, Bangkok remains an alluring destination.

For travelers looking to explore beyond Bangkok, Pattaya is an easily accessible and exciting destination, just a short trip away. Whether for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, or cultural attractions, Pattaya has wonders for visitors.

Moreover, Vietjet Thailand’s extensive domestic and international network provides easy connections to other top destinations in Thailand, including Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai, and many international routes, including Da Nang, Phu Quoc and Taipei.

Named the ‘Fastest Growing Airline Brand – Thailand, 2024’ by Global Brand Awards, the airline continues to expand its modern fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft. Also, awarded ‘Most Passenger-Friendly Cabin Crew – 2024’ by International Finance Magazine, the airline upholds its values of being ‘Friendly & Fun,’ while ensuring ‘Safety,’ ‘Punctuality,’ and ‘Affordable Pricing.’

Book your Vietjet Thailand flight today and experience its best service, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable flight from Economy to SkyBoss class. Indulge in authentic Thai traditional meals and beverages onboard, offering an authentic taste of the region. The airline’s dedicated cabin crew provides exceptional hospitality, ensuring utmost comfort throughout your journey. Plus, enjoy a range of additional services at great prices when you book, enhancing your travel experience. For more information and to book or discover exclusive promotional fares, please visit www.vietjetair.com