Global tech giant Microsoft has made a significant investment of Rs. 519.72 crore in Pune, one of India’s prominent IT hubs, according to Square Yards. In recent years, Microsoft’s investments in India’s commercial real estate sector have increased, spanning data centers, development centers, and flexible office spaces.

As per the registration document reviewed by Square Yards, Microsoft’s Indian arm, Microsoft Corporation (India) Private Limited, acquired 66,414.5 square meters (~16.4 acres) of prime land in Pune’s Hinjewadi. The transaction, registered in August 2024, involved the purchase of land from Indo Global Infotech City LLP. The deal incurred a stamp duty of Rs. 31.18 crore and a registration fee of Rs. 30,000.

In 2022, the company acquired a 25-acre plot in Pimpri-Chinchwad for Rs. 328 crore. Earlier this year, Microsoft secured 48 acres of land in Hyderabad for Rs. 267 crore. Both deals are part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to expand to expand its presence in India, particularly within its data centre operations. The company’s network of data centres already includes locations in Pune, Mumbai, and Chennai, solidifying its presence across key markets.

Currently, the company’s workforce in India includes over 23,000 employees across cities such as Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Pune. These teams support various business functions, including sales, marketing, research, development, and customer support. Additionally, in early 2024, Microsoft launched a major skilling initiative in India, aiming to equip 2 million individuals with AI and digital skills by 2025. The program, known as ADVANTA(I)GE INDIA, is part of the company’s “Skills for Jobs” initiative designed to foster a future-ready workforce.

Bangalore, 10th September 2024: DashLoc, one of India’s leading hyperlocal MarTech discovery platforms, announced the appointment of Ashish Tiwari as Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer (Product & Partnership). This strategic alliance signals the onset of the next expansion phase for DashLoc Globally, with Ashish being at its helm.

No stranger to the world of entrepreneurship, Ashish brings with him a wealth of experience, having successfully founded and led three startups: HealthKhoj, Hair Originals, and Hair Forever. He first made headlines with Hair Originals, which garnered significant attention on India’s most talked-about startup show, SharkTank India, where the startup successfully secured funding. His journey with Hair Forever, from its inception in January 2022 to its recent acquisition in July 2024, further underscores his ability to build and scale businesses. He has previously held leadership positions at globally renowned firms like CISCO, AIG, and India’s unicorn startup, Droom.

Having completed his B-Tech & M-Tech from India’s prominent tech institute, IIT Kharagpur, Ashish brings with himself a sheer wealth of unrivalled tech expertise and leadership experience. Before joining DashLoc full-time, Ashish had already been contributing to the company’s growth as a mentor to the Partnership and Product teams for the past year. His strategic insights and guidance have been instrumental in shaping the company’s direction.

In his new role at DashLoc, Ashish will focus on driving the company’s product strategy and forging strong partnerships to enhance the platform’s offerings.

Ashish Tiwari, Co-Founder & CSO of DashLoc, commented, “I am thrilled to officially join DashLoc at such a pivotal time. Having been involved in mentoring the team over the past year, I have seen firsthand the immense potential of our platform. I look forward to working closely with the visionary CEO Sumit Singh and our tech maverick Gaurav, and the entire DashLoc family to drive our mission of revolutionising hyperlocal discovery.”

Sumit Singh, CEO of DashLoc, “We are delighted to welcome Ashish onboard as Co-Founder and CSO. His entrepreneurial experience, coupled with his strategic acumen, will be invaluable as we continue to scale our operations and innovate within the MarTech space. With Ashish on-board, we certainly foresee an accelerated growth pace, gearing up to dominate the industry in India and across the globe.”

pic credit: Instagram

JioCinema Premium has unveiled the logo of its much-anticipated multi-starrer series #GOATS . This musical youth drama promises to deliver a compelling narrative with a unique blend of drama and intrigue. The ensemble cast delivers a novel captivating story that has never been seen before in the Indian OTT landscape. Directed by Abhishek Sharma , the star-studded cast includes Jacqueline Fernandez , Neil Nitin Mukesh , Boman Irani , Siddharth Nigam and Sumedh Mudgalkar in the lead, along with Bhavin Bhanushali , Anusha Mani, Kunwar Amar , Santana Roach , Yukti Tareja , and Arnav Maggo .

The design of the logo reflects the show unique theme and vision, setting the stage for what is expected to be a groundbreaking addition to the OTT landscape.

September 2024: Whether you’re getting ready for Ganpati, Navratri, or Dussehra or just want to dress up (yes, we get it, who needs an occasion to dress up!) Nykaa Cosmetics’ Matte to Last range is your must-have. This range is all about giving you that flawless glam that stays lit from morning rituals to late-night parties, so you can focus on the fun not touch-ups.

Designed to keep up with your festive grind, the Matte to Last range has everything you need to keep it fresh and fierce. From vibrant, stay-all-day lipsticks to full-coverage concealers that hide everything and foundations that serve a smooth, matte base for every Indian skin tone, this range has you covered. Oh, and don’t forget the loose powder it’s basically your shine-fighting BFF, giving you that velvety finish that lasts.

Now, let’s talk about the real hero and the newest addition to the range: the Matte to Last Setting Spray. This lightweight spray locks in your look from sunrise to sunset, controlling oil and keeping your makeup fresh. Infused with ingredients like cucumber, moringa, chamomile, rosemary, and tamarind extracts it hydrates and soothes while making sure there’s no smudging, creasing, or fading. Just a bomb matte finish that stays all day long.

From bold lips to a flawless base, Nykaa’s Matte to Last range makes sure your glam is as on-point as your celebrations. Head to the Nykaa website/ app, snag your faves, and shine your brightest this festive season. Get your glam on!

Whether you’re prepping for Ganpati, Navratri, Dussehra, or just feel like dressing up (because who really needs a reason?), say hello to your new festive BFF: the Nykaa Matte to Last Setting Spray. This lightweight, game-changing spray locks in your look from sunrise to sunset, keeping oil in check and your makeup looking fresh. Infused with skin-loving ingredients like cucumber, moringa, chamomile, rosemary, and tamarind extracts, it hydrates, soothes, and ensures no smudging, creasing, or fading. Expect a bomb matte finish that stays flawless all day long.

Now, let’s talk about the real magic—this entire Matte to Last range is formulated with ultimate mattifying and pore-reducing benefits, making it the perfect choice for anyone looking to achieve a smooth, flawless complexion. The range works overtime to blur imperfections, minimize pores, and keep shine under control, giving you that clean, photo-ready finish for any occasion.

But that’s just the start. The Nykaa Cosmetics Matte to Last range is your must-have collection this festive season. Designed to give you flawless, long-lasting glam, this range takes you from morning rituals to late-night celebrations—touch-up free! Whether it’s vibrant, stay-all-day lipsticks, full-coverage concealers that blur imperfections, or foundations that create a smooth matte base for every Indian skin tone, the Matte to Last range has you covered. And let’s not forget the loose powder—it’s your ultimate shine-fighting BFF, delivering a velvety finish that lasts.

From bold lips to a flawless base, Nykaa’s Matte to Last range ensures your festive glam stays lit no matter the occasion. Head to the Nykaa website or app, snag your favorites, and shine your brightest this season.

The air crackles with anticipation. Amidst the whispers and excitement of friends and family, the rustle of silk and the gleam of intricate embroidery come alive. She adorns herself in her wedding attire, the delicate chime of bangles and the sparkle of jewels adding to the symphony of colour and craftsmanship that speaks of tradition and celebration. Every detail is meticulously chosen, a symphony of textures and colours. But one final touch remains – the fragrance that will become a part of her wedding day, a whispered echo of laughter, stolen glances, and promises under a starlit sky. Just like the perfect wedding dress, the right perfume lingers long after the celebration, a sensory snapshot of the exchange of vows. Choosing a wedding fragrance is a deeply personal decision, allowing brides to express their individuality and create a lasting sensory memory of their special day.

 The timeless romance of florals, the modern vibrancy of citrus, or the captivating allure of amber and spice, here are some trending notes that will make your wedding day unforgettable.

 1. Classic Floral: Evoking romance and grace, floral notes are still a mainstay in bridal fragrances. This year, traditional flowers like jasmine, peonies, and roses are popular but with a modern feel. ITC Engage L’amante Sunkissed Eau De Parfum is the perfect pick for this wedding as the perfume it is long lasting and offers a delightful aroma. It creates a romantic, floral harmony with notes of tiger orchid, jasmine, tuberose and sandalwood making it ideal for the wedding day for the bride.
2. Vibrant Citrus: Fresh lemon tones are especially lovely for outdoor ceremonies or a day wedding. The bright and energizing qualities of bergamot, lemon, and grapefruit give the scent a vibrant and vivacious vibe. Citrus notes are an excellent option for a modern bride because they can offer a refreshing contrast to the more conventional flower and woody ingredients. ITC Engage’s Verona Perfume offers a citrus and fruity note, creating a refreshing and invigorating scent.
3. Amber & Spice: Warm amber and delicate spices are going to be popular in 2024 to provide a hint of sensuality and depth. While spices like cardamom or cinnamon add a delicate note of intrigue, amber adds a rich, golden warmth. These notes are ideal for producing a fragrance that clings and makes an impact. ITC Engage’s Amber Hues Perfume for Men which has fruity and ambery notes is fresh modern fougere and is ideal for such special occasions.

ITC Engage’s brand ambassador Tara Sutaria advises bride-to-be to invest in a long-lasting fragrance. “I believe your choice of fragrance is an extension of your personal style, and your wedding day is the perfect time to choose a scent that makes you feel confident, radiant, and most yourself as you embark on a new and exciting journey with the one you love. It’s about creating a sensory memory that’s uniquely yours. The ITC Engage Verona offers a timeless scent with a delicate floral and citrusy touch that is most charming and elegant when worn. I highly recommend this perfume to all brides-to-be!”

As you embark on this exciting new chapter, remember that the perfect wedding fragrance is more than just a scent—it’s an extension of your love story. Choose a fragrance that speaks to your heart, embodies your unique style, and creates a lasting impression on your special day.

India has rapidly emerged as a global leader in the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, and Generative AI (GenAI) is no exception. As businesses across the world race to harness the power of AI for enhanced decision-making and business intelligence, several Indian companies have established themselves as pioneers in this domain.

1. Findability Sciences

Findability Sciences, a global leader in Enterprise Forecasting and Business Process Co-Pilots, is spearheading the adoption of Generative AI in the business intelligence space. Leveraging its powerful AI platform, Findability Sciences enables businesses to derive actionable insights from vast amounts of unstructured data. Their proprietary solutions, such as the GenAI-powered ROI Calculator, allow enterprises to predict outcomes and optimize decisions with unprecedented accuracy. The company’s expertise in AI-driven forecasting has made it a preferred partner for organizations looking to transform their business intelligence capabilities. By seamlessly integrating GenAI into their offerings, Findability Sciences is setting new benchmarks in the industry, empowering businesses to achieve higher levels of efficiency and innovation.

2. Microsoft Power BI
Microsoft Power BI is a widely adopted BI tool that has seamlessly integrated generative AI to elevate data analysis. Power BI’s AI-driven features include automated insights, data transformation, and natural language processing (NLP) for easy querying. Indian businesses across various industries use Power BI to build customized dashboards and reports, enabling them to visualize data and make informed decisions with greater accuracy and speed. Its robust AI capabilities make it a favorite among large enterprises looking to leverage generative AI for BI.

3. Tableau
Tableau, a prominent BI platform, is known for its user-friendly visual analytics and AI capabilities. Tableau’s integration with generative AI allows users to ask questions in natural language, generate reports automatically, and perform predictive analysis without the need for coding expertise. In India, Tableau is widely adopted by companies to derive real-time insights, build interactive dashboards, and gain a deeper understanding of complex data. Tableau’s focus on self-service analytics, combined with generative AI, makes it a go-to tool for businesses looking to democratize data.

4. Qlik Sense
Qlik Sense has established itself as a leader in analytics, offering generative AI features that enable users to explore data intuitively. Qlik’s AI engine supports automatic insights, pattern recognition, and predictive analytics, making data analysis more efficient and effective. Indian businesses are utilizing Qlik Sense to turn vast amounts of data into actionable insights, drive operational efficiency, and gain a competitive edge. Its AI-powered recommendations simplify the data exploration process, helping users uncover insights faster and more accurately.

5. Zoho Analytics
Zoho Analytics is a homegrown BI solution that is gaining traction in India for its AI-enhanced analytics platform. Zoho leverages AI to automate report generation, perform predictive analytics, and offer data storytelling, allowing businesses to interpret data more efficiently. Its natural language processing (NLP) capabilities let users ask questions and get instant insights. Zoho’s easy-to-use interface and AI-powered tools make it an ideal choice for businesses of all sizes in India looking to leverage generative AI for better decision-making.
As generative AI becomes more integrated into business intelligence solutions, companies in India are at the forefront of this transformation. Brands like Findability Sciences, Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, Qlik Sense, and Zoho Analytics are leading the charge by providing AI-powered tools that enable organizations to harness the power of their data. Whether it’s predictive analytics, automated insights, or intuitive data exploration, these companies are empowering businesses to make smarter, faster, and more informed decisions, shaping the future of business intelligence in India.

Migsun Group, a leading real estate developer in North India, launches a new studio apartment project in Lucknow. A breathtakingly designed commercial masterpiece, the project will be constructed at a cost of Rs 50 crores. It is part of the upcoming Migsun Lucknow Central, a mixed-use project. Each unit is priced at around Rs 60 lakh, making it an attractive option for 9both end users and investors.

Migsun Lucknow Central is strategically located at Shaheed Path in Lucknow. It has been designed to emerge as the city’s iconic retail project known for its design values and brand mix. The unit size of these studio apartments starts from 650 sq. ft. They will be immaculately designed and fully furnished with branded equipment.

“We are thrilled to launch Migsun Studio Apartments, which forms part of our iconic commercial project in Lucknow,” said Yash Miglani, Managing Director of Migsun Group. “Our projects, Migsun Janpath and Migsun Lucknow Central have both been resounding successes, achieving significant appreciation in property value. We anticipate a similar success for these studio apartments and are committed to making it a landmark in Lucknow’s real estate landscape.”

Migsun Lucknow Central spreads over approximately 20,239 square meters and features High Street Retail, a Food Court, and Business Suites square meters of land fully owned by the company. The company had invested Rs 426 crores in the project.

The project is envisioned as Lucknow’s next iconic development, recognised for its cutting-edge design and high-quality amenities that include a clubhouse, swimming pool, state-of-the-art gym, restaurant, cafe, concierge & housekeeping services and a host of recreational facilities.

Migsun Group has delivered over 40 projects across the NCR region, earning a reputation for quality, innovation, and timely project completion. With a robust pipeline of upcoming developments, the Group continues to push boundaries and exceed customer expectations, solidifying its leadership in the real estate sector.

Artiste First is thrilled to announce the release of the evocative new music video for “Kis Raag Ka,” a song that highlights the resilience of artistry in the face of external constraints. The track, written, composed, and performed by Raag with stunning production by Hyder Dar, explores the profound idea that while one might attempt to cage a singer, the essence of a song remains free. This release, coming from a music label, emphasizes the very notion of artistic freedom. Directed by Sushant Vasishth and Fareed Kairon, with Naushad Ali as the Director of Photography, the music video beautifully captures the song’s emotional depth, inviting viewers to reflect on how external influences shape their inner world and challenge their beliefs.

At the heart of Kis Raag Ka lies a question that feels deeply personal: “In what melody do I belong?” This powerful line captures the struggle of balancing personal truth against the pressure of societal expectations. The lyrics beautifully express this feeling:

“Mere Vichar Janme hai mujhme ya ik hawa,

mere kaanon par jo aaye karde mujhme sudhaar,

De jaye mujhme sabki sargam…”

Through these words, Raag gives voice to the universal experience of feeling lost in a world that often tells us who we should be. The song’s haunting melody and thought-provoking lyrics blend seamlessly, creating a piece that feels raw, honest, and deeply relatable.

Raag on the song’s meaning mentioned “Kis Raag Ka came from a very personal place. It’s about realizing that the way you see the world might not actually be your own view, but shaped by everything around you. Writing this song helped me sort through that, and I hope it connects with anyone who’s ever felt that internal struggle.”

Rohit Sobti, Curator, Artiste First added “Kis Raag Ka is an incredible reflection of how we all grapple with who we are versus what society expects us to be. Raag has done a beautiful job of putting those emotions into words and music. At Artiste First, we’re proud to support artists like Raag, who bring such powerful and authentic music to the world.”

Kis Raag Ka is a song about the struggle to find your own voice in a world full of outside influences. With its haunting lyrics and immersive production, it offers listeners a deeply personal and relatable experience. You can stream Kis Raag Ka now on all major streaming platforms.

I am writing to you on behalf of Cult, from the house of Curefit, India’s largest fitness services and apparel provider, to announce the launch of Cult Gun Massagers, their latest range of innovation designed to enhance recovery for fitness enthusiasts. This range of massagers is a testament to their commitment to provide a holistic approach to fitness from start to end for optimal performance and overall well-being.

Fitness all-the-way

After the first or another intense workout at the gym, people experience muscle soreness and a lack of mobility that might have them questioning how to go back to working out, completely missing the concept of ‘post-workout recovery’. This is where Cult, being India’s largest fitness brand, steps in with its new range of massagers to talk about the holistic approach to fitness all the way.

Key Features and Benefits:

The Cult Gun Massager is engineered to provide a powerful recovery experience. With its advanced features, it caters to the needs of athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike. Key highlights of the range include:

● Recovery Massager: Designed to alleviate muscle tension and promote blood circulation, aiding in faster recovery post-exercise.

● Hot & Cold Massage Head Features: This innovative feature allows users to switch between hot and cold therapy, targeting muscle soreness and inflammation effectively. Hot therapy helps to relax muscles, while cold therapy reduces swelling and numbs sharp pain.

● Nitro Model: The Nitro variant of the gun massager is particularly favored by athletes for its powerful brushless motor and tri-positional rotatable arm, allowing for versatile massage angles and deeper penetration into muscle tissue.

Variations of the Gun Massager

The Cult Gun Massager comes in five distinct models, each tailored to meet different user needs:

Cult Volt:

· Segment: For entry-level

· Key USP: Compact and portable design, perfect for on-the-go recovery

· Features: 4 adjustable heads, 6 intensity modes, and a quiet operation (<45dB)

Cult Volt Plus:

· Segment: For entry-level

· Key USP: Premium design with a rubberized finish for better grip

· Features: Similar to Volt but with enhanced ergonomics

Cult Volt Pro:

· Segment: For Mid-level

· Key USP: Most powerful massager in its segment with 12 intensity modes

· Features: 4 adjustable heads, a larger battery (4500 mAH), and low noise operation

Cult Volt X:

· Segment: For Mid-level

· Key USP: Offers interchangeable hot and cold massage heads for versatile therapy

· Features: 6 adjustable heads and an LCD display for easy operation

Cult Nitro:

· Segment: For Professional

· Key USP: Designed for athletes, featuring a powerful brushless motor and tri-positional arm

· Features: 4 adjustable heads, 5 intensity modes, and a long-lasting battery (2000 mAH)

Expressing his excitement on the launch, Abhilash Panda, Business head, of hardlines, fitness products at Cult, said, “We are excited to own the recovery process with the launch of this new range. At Cult, we understand that effective recovery is just as important as the workout itself. Our massagers are designed specifically to help users relax, rejuvenate, and ultimately enhance their performance. With advanced features like hot and cold massage heads and the athlete-favorite Nitro option, we are committed to providing the tools necessary for a comprehensive fitness journey at all levels.”

With the launch of the Cult Gun Massager, Cult aims to redefine the perspective of fitness for the people of India. The Cult Gun Massager range is the ultimate partner in one’s fitness journey, helping them to achieve their goals while taking care of their body.

Noida, Gurugram, and Yamuna Expressway Property Markets lead the investment surge

The real estate market in Delhi NCR is on the threshold of significant expansion with emerging trends of high-end residential and commercial properties. Such evolving dynamics have reshaped the landscape for developers, investors, and end-users alike. As per the findings by real estate consultancy firm Star Estate, the demand for properties is projected to grow exponentially in 2024-2025, with residential properties in Noida, Gurugram, and along the Yamuna Expressway leading the charge as top investment choices.

As per its findings around 58% of real estate investors plan to make investments in these locations within the next 3-5 months. Signaling a significant uptick in demand, this growing trend is set to gain pace in the coming quarters. Sharing his insights on the market’s growth, Mr. Vijay Jain, MD, Star Estate said “Noida and Gurugram are the most preferred locations for real estate investment in Delhi NCR. They are preferred by the property buyers seeking high returns and quality living. The investors who choose these areas are likely to witness substantial appreciation of around 30% to 45% YoY growth in property values over the next couple of years.”

Already these cities have witnessed around 45% price hikes in property rates in the current year especially within the premium homes segment. Such strong prospects further reinforce the appeal of these prime locations. Mr. Jain emphasised the significance of these areas by highlighting the fact that most of the buyers in these cities look for mid to high-end residential properties. “At Star Estate, we are witnessing a clear shift towards luxury real estate asset. We have experienced recently that nearly 50% of prospective buyers are focusing on this segment,” he said.

According to Mr. Jain, the buyers today are not just looking for homes, they are seeking elevated living spaces. “The buyers prefer homes that offer comfort, luxury, and an enhanced lifestyle and so the premium homes is growing,” he noted. The key Infrastructure developments in these locations have bolstered investor confidence.

The ongoing transformation of the Delhi NCR real estate market is equally indicative of broader trends in urban living. “With the market continuing its upward trajectory, the emphasis on luxury, connectivity, and lifestyle amenities is fast becoming increasingly important to both the investors and the end-users,” said Mr. Jain adding that these trends obviously provide valuable insights for the stakeholders.

Among these locations, Yamuna Expressway, in particular, is rapidly becoming the new frontier for real estate investment. “With major projects like the Noida International Airport on the horizon, the region is poised for double digit appreciation in property values. The developments here are not just about infrastructure, they equally represent a long-term vision for growth and prosperity. For the investors seeking strong returns, Yamuna Expressway is an ideal destination,” commented Mr. Jain.

Several key infrastructure projects along the Yamuna Expressway are set to further enhance the region’s appeal. “As the upcoming Noida International Airport is expected to become operational by April 2024, we have witnessed a surge in property inquiries,” added Mr. Jain.

“While Noida and Gurugram have emerged as epicenter of real estate growth, Yamuna Expressway is shaping the future of the region’s real estate landscape in the coming years,” concluded Mr. Jain.

As per Star Estate findings, the rising interest of the buyers is in 3 BHK and even the larger luxury apartments which reflects the evolving lifestyle needs of homebuyers. With a growing emphasis on home offices and multifunctional spaces, this preference for spacious, multifunctional homes is particularly strong in Noida and Yamuna Expressway property markets, which have emerged as preferred destinations for those seeking both convenience and luxury. Gurugram bodes well in terms of long-term investment prospects. Thus, the real estate landscape in Delhi NCR in a nutshell, set to offer unparalleled opportunities for astute investors.