Lakmē Fashion Week and FDCI Collaborate with Canopy to Present Thought-Provoking Industry Panel

 March 29, 2025 – On March 27, solutions-driven environmental not-for-profit Canopy, in collaboration with Lakmē Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI, presented an exclusive panel discussion exploring the crucial role of Indian fashion designers and brands in advancing Next Gen material innovation and circular fashion. Next-Gen Solutions are low-carbon alternatives to conventional wood-based paper, paper packaging, and textiles that use inputs that would otherwise be landfilled (discarded textiles) or burned (agricultural residues). Next Gen materials help protect forests, advance livelihoods for farmers and textile collectors, and build resilient supply chains for fashion brands.
Writer Namrata Zakaria moderated the panel, which featured Canopy’s Executive Director Nicole Rycroft, iconic Indian fashion designer Amit Aggarwal, sustainable fashion star Urvashi Kaur, and Sara Sozzani Maino, Creative Director of Fondazione Sozzani and former Head of Vogue Talent.
Panelists highlighted India’s enormous potential to lead the global fashion industry’s transition to more circular materials, given its rich textile heritage, entrepreneurial culture, technical expertise, and abundant agricultural and textile wastes. They shared how Indian designers are fusing centuries-old techniques with cutting-edge Next Gen materials to create low-impact, high-style textiles. Canopy’s role in connecting designers and brands to these exciting forest-free alternatives was spotlighted, alongside calls for greater transparency and collaboration across the value chain. With 100 million tonnes of agricultural residues burned annually in India, the panel underscored a powerful opportunity: to curb pollution, catalyze circular innovation, and reimagine waste as the foundation for a regenerative fashion future.
“India has a remarkable opportunity to be an early manufacturing hub of Next Gen materials for the global fashion industry as well as for its designers and brands to set the pace for sustainability,” noted Canopy Founder and Executive Director, Nicole Rycroft. “Next Gen materials are the future of fashion. They build supply chain resiliency, deliver performance, and show that being stylish doesn’t have to cost the Earth.
“It’s not just about creating sustainable fashion — it’s about building communities, projects, and systems that make responsibility the foundation of the industry,” remarked Sara Sozzani Maino, Creative Director of Fondazione Sozzani, at the panel.
Speaking on the association, Jaspreet Chandhok, Group Vice President, Reliance Brands Limited said, “Over the past decade, what began as Sustainable Fashion Day has grown into a comprehensive commitment that shapes every aspect of our industry — from the rich legacy of Indian textiles to pioneering new materials like innovative fibers and agri-waste solutions. At Reliance Brands, I believe in honoring our heritage while driving innovation, and our collaboration with Canopy stands as a true testament to that vision — bringing together designers, thought leaders, and brands to create a future where fashion and nature thrive together.” 

Thomas Goode Elevates Bespoke Fine Living with New Delhi Store Unveiling

March 29, 2025 – BI Luxury, the developers of Trident Residences in Delhi in association with The Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, proudly announce their acquisition of the iconic luxury tableware brand Thomas Goode India, and the grand opening of their latest venture. Bringing the esteemed British purveyor of luxury tableware, home accents and gifting to the heart of India, the flagship store is located at the prestigious Oberoi Hotel, New Delhi. Building on a legacy of nearly 200 years, Thomas Goode, brings its unparalleled artistry and craftsmanship to India, catering to the growing demand for bespoke luxury and opulent gifting, particularly within the thriving Indian wedding industry. Thomas Goode, the original creators of table scaping, has a history of serving royalty, including Indian royalty like the Maharaja of Baroda and the Maharaja of Kotah, and collaborating with iconic figures like Tsar Nicholas II and Catherine the Great. The brand’s creations, including a dinner service for the wedding of HRH Prince Charles and Princess Diana, exemplify its commitment to timeless elegance. Sir Elton John, a minority shareholder of Thomas Goode UK and global ambassador, further strengthens the brand’s global appeal.

Thomas Goode’s bespoke services allow clients to create personalized tableware, dinnerware, and crockery, reflecting individual style and commemorating special occasions. From custom-designed crystal vases to bespoke monogrammed fine bone-china tableware, each creation is meticulously crafted to become a cherished heirloom. These pieces hold significant value within the Indian wedding industry, where opulent gifting and the creation of lasting legacies are highly valued.

The opening of our flagship store in New Delhi marks a new chapter for Thomas Goode and for luxury retail in India,” says Angelique Dhama, Director of Thomas Goode India. “We are committed to serving the discerning tastes of Indian clientele who appreciate the storytelling and heritage behind each piece, particularly those seeking to create a lasting legacy and invest in heirloom worthy pieces.”

This New Delhi location offers a curated experience, showcasing exquisite collections of fine china, silverware, and crystal from world-renowned brands, including exclusive collaborations with Dolce & Gabbana and Haviland. More than just a retail space, the store is designed to immerse customers in the world of Thomas Goode, where heritage meets contemporary luxury.

Thomas Goode’s designs beautifully blend history and luxury, and we are confident they will resonate deeply with the Indian audience,” says Shashank Bhagat, Chairman, Thomas Goode India. “This new store provides a tailored experience, reflecting India’s rich traditions and the increasing desire for personalized luxury, especially within the context of the vibrant wedding market.”

The New Delhi store offers an unparalleled luxury shopping experience, showcasing curated collections of tableware, crystal, and silverware. Whether adorning your home or seeking an extraordinary gift for a wedding or special celebration, Thomas Goode offers an unmatched level of sophistication, heritage, and craftsmanship.

IHCL’s Growth in Boutique Hospitality – The Claridges Collection Debuts

March 29, 2025: Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company introduces Claridges Collection, a curated set of boutique luxury hotels blending elegance with rich historical charm. Designed for those who appreciate life’s finer things, every detail at Claridges is a celebration of refined luxury and timeless privilege.

Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IHCL, said, “With India’s growing economic prominence, the income pyramid is witnessing a structural shift and the demand for luxury product and services is at an all -time high led by significant expansion of households in the high-net worth bracket.  This presents a market opportunity to extend hospitality offerings in the luxury segment as consumers are seeking differentiated experiences.”

He added, “Claridges Collection resonates with those well-versed in the nuances of global luxury and seek evolved and bespoke experiences. Positioned at the heart of key gateway cities across the world, these hotels serve as the epicenter of cultural and social prominence, offering a refined sanctuary for discerning travelers. The Claridges Collection portfolio will commence with The Claridges, New Delhi and will include the historic Connemera, Chennai and post a comprehensive renovation, Blue Diamond, Pune.

 

Tata IPL 2025’s 18th Edition Opens with Record-Breaking Streaming on JIOSTAR

March 29th, 2025: In a record-breaking opening weekend, the 18th edition of TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) witnessed unprecedented viewership across JioHotstar and Star Sports Network. With a cumulative watch time of 4,956 crore minutesJioStar Network has set new benchmarks, delivering an unparalleled cricketing experience across TV and digital platforms.

On JioHotstar, digital viewership of the first 3 matches was 40% higher than last season, fueled by a 54% surge in CTV consumption. With 137 crore views, peak concurrency of 3.4 crore, and a staggering 2,186 crore minutes of watch time from just the first 3 matches of IPL 2025, JioHotstar continues to set new benchmarks, capturing the pulse of the nation like never before.

Furthermore, on television, as per BARC data, the opening weekend of TATA IPL 2025 set new records, drawing over 25.3 crore viewers and clocking an unprecedented 2,770 crore minutes of watch time – a 22% surge from last year. The average TVR for the first three matches was up by 39% compared to the previous season.

Charting the future of Sports, Sanjog Gupta, CEO – Sports, JioStar said“The record-breaking viewership across digital and TV platforms over the opening weekend of TATA IPL 2025 reaffirms the tournament’s unmatched popularity bolstered significantly by the wide reach of our platforms and our commitment to creating deeper fan connections, in turn redefining how India experiences sports. With cumulative watch time of 4,956 crore minutes, this season has begun on an extraordinary note. As the tournament unfolds, we look forward to continuing to deliver an inclusive, intuitive and interactive IPL experience by serving every fan with a suite of customized viewing options, creating unmissable moments, unforgettable stories, and a truly immersive IPL.”

Speaking further on the record-breaking start to the season, Kiran Mani, CEO – Digital, JioStar, said, “IPL 2025 is setting a new benchmark for how India engages with live sports and entertainment at an unmatched scale. The opening weekend showcased the power of innovation in creating richer, more interactive experiences, allowing fans to connect with the game like never before. At the same time, our partners are tapping into one of the most engaged audiences ever, driving deeper and more meaningful connections. As we continue to expand IPL’s reach, bringing the game to newer audiences, we move closer to our ambition of lighting up a billion screens and making this season a historic moment in how sports and entertainment are experienced in India.”

For advertisers and audiences alike, the record-breaking viewership underscores TATA IPL’s unparalleled scale, engagement, and impact. With an expanding roster of 30+ marquee brand partners, including My11Circle, Campa Energy, PhonePe, Amazon Prime, SBI, Thums Up, Google Pay, Dream11, Rapido, Parle, Danube, Mutual Funds Sahi Hai, Asian Paints, Carat Lane and Arun Ice Cream, JioStar is the most coveted destination for brands seeking high-impact reach. While linear TV continues to be a powerful platform for advertisers to engage audiences, JioHotstar is redefining the way brands connect with consumers in the digital era through enhanced targeting, personalized ad formats, and deeper audience insights.

 A New Era of Immersive Cricket Entertainment

JioStar, the official broadcaster of TATA IPL 2025, has redefined the viewing experience with an unprecedented, multi-dimensional presentation of the tournament. With 25+ feeds in 12 languages across both Star Sports Network and JioHotstar, powered by over 170 experts, fans are immersed in the game like never before. JioHotstar’s deep integration of interactive features – live chats, polls, predictions, and virtual watch parties—transforms passive viewing into an engaging, community-driven experience. Enhancing this further, the MaxView feature offers an expanded, edge-to-edge display, ensuring fans catch every detail with unparalleled clarity. Anchored by the narrative ‘Yahaan Sab Possible Hai’ and amplified through social media, creators, and immersive on-ground activations, this hyper-personalized approach has set a new industry benchmark, ensuring every fan experiences the IPL in their own unique way.

The 18th season of TATA IPL will see the return of digital-exclusive and popular Hangout feed, featuring quirky match commentary by new-age creators and stand-up comics. Catering to younger audiences and families, an innovative entertainment feed, Motu Patlu Presents Super Fundayensures that IPL 2025 is a complete entertainment package for all age groups.

In its commitment to enhancing the viewing experience, the network is introducing a second-screen engagement feature, allowing fans to stay connected to every key moment of the game. While watching the action live on TV, viewers who miss a crucial play can simply scan a QR code to instantly access the highlight on JioHotstar, ensuring an uninterrupted and immersive cricket experience.

After delivering an outstanding ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, JioStar’s opening act of TATA IPL 2025 sets the tone for their promise of delivering the biggest IPL ever – one where infinite possibilities come to life.

Savor the Joy of the Festive Weekend with Baskin Robbins’ Delectable Fusion Treats

March 29, 2025: As we approach the festive weekend celebrating Eid and Gudi Padwa, Baskin Robbins is excited to reintroduce its delightful Unique Fusion Ice Creams. These creations blend the comforting essence of traditional Indian mithais with the creamy indulgence of ice cream, offering a modern twist on beloved desserts. Perfect for this joyous occasion, these treats promise to add warmth and flavor to your celebrations.

Here’s a look at some standout offerings:

 Carrot Halwa Sundae

What could be more comforting than enjoying Gajar ka Halwa during family gatherings? Elevate this classic by adding a scoop of Baskin Robbins ice cream! The Carrot Halwa Sundae is a rich, warm dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Iranian Pista Kulfi Sundae

Festivities call for something indulgent. This sundae features classic malai kulfi layered with creamy vanilla ice cream and garnished with pistachio slivers, rose drizzle, and creamy condensed milk. One bite will warm your heart while delighting your taste buds.

Rabdi Jalebi Ice Cream

No festive gathering is complete without this iconic dessert! The Rabdi Jalebi Ice Cream combines the beloved flavors of rabdi and jalebi into a creamy treat that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. It’s tradition reimagined in the most delicious way. Whether you’re celebrating with family, catching up with friends, or indulging in some personal time, Baskin Robbins has the ideal treat to sweeten your festive moments. Dive into these delightful flavors and savor the joy of each bite!

RIR Power Electronics Strengthens India’s Tech Sector with SiC Semiconductor Plant in Odisha

28 March 2025: RIR Power Electronics, a global semiconductor company, is on track to establish India’s First Silicon Carbide (SiC) Semiconductor production facility in Odisha, with the production of Epitaxy Wafer as part of phase 1 production expected to commence by December 2025. This strategic investment of ₹618 Crores to produce high power SiC devices marks a landmark achievement in advancing India’s semiconductor industry and strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities under the Make in India Initiative to produce high power Mosfets and Diodes from 3.3KV to 20KV.

We are proud to align with Odisha’s vision of fostering semiconductor manufacturing and innovation. With the support of the Odisha government, we are on track to begin production of Epitaxy Wafer by the end of this year and do the Packaging and SiC Fab in subsequent years.” said Mr. Harshad Mehta, Founder & Promoter, RIR Power Electronics Limited. “This initiative not only propels our company forward but also reinforces India’s semiconductor supply chain.”

The next generation SiC semiconductor facility will focus on manufacturing critical components for electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, power electronics and industrial automation applications. The superior technology of SiC semiconductors provides durability alongside high efficiency to transform power applications, which results in enhanced energy efficiency and operational performance throughout various industries.

Supported by dedicated government backing and RIR’s expertise in power electronic solutions, this advanced facility will serve as a key hub for India’s growing semiconductor ecosystem. Its implementation will generate employment opportunities, foster local industry collaborations and contribute to regional economic growth, positioning India as a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing.

Endometriosis and Women’s Health: Why Awareness Matters Now More Than Ever

Dr. Shivani Chandan L, Consultant – Obstetrics & gynecology

Endometriosis is a condition that affects millions of women worldwide, yet it remains underdiagnosed and misunderstood. Often dismissed as mere “period pain,” endometriosis is a serious medical condition that can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. March is recognized as Endometriosis Awareness Month, making it an ideal time to shed light on this often-overlooked disorder.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This tissue can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, intestines, bladder, scars and other organs. Unlike normal endometrial tissue, which is shed during menstruation, these misplaced cells have no way to exit the body. As a result, they cause inflammation, scarring, and sometimes the formation of painful cysts called endometriomas.

Symptoms and Impact on Life

The symptoms of endometriosis vary, but common signs include:

  • Chronic pelvic pain: Often worsens during menstruation but can persist throughout the cycle.
  • Painful periods (dysmenorrhea): Cramps that are more intense and prolonged than usual.
  • Pain during intercourse: Due to inflammation and scarring.
  • Painful urination or bowel movements: Particularly during menstrual cycles.
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding: Some women experience excessive bleeding or irregular cycles.
  • Infertility: Endometriosis is one of the leading causes of female infertility.

The severity of pain does not always correlate with the extent of the disease. Some women with severe endometriosis may have mild symptoms, while others with minimal lesions experience debilitating pain. The chronic nature of the condition can affect a woman’s physical, emotional, and social well-being, often leading to anxiety, depression, and a diminished quality of life.

Diagnostic Challenges

One of the biggest challenges in managing endometriosis is delayed diagnosis. Many women suffer for years before receiving an accurate diagnosis, with an average delay of 7-10 years. This is partly due to the misconception that painful periods are normal and the lack of a definitive non-invasive test. The gold standard for diagnosis is laparoscopic surgery, a minimally invasive procedure that allows direct visualization and biopsy of endometrial lesions.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of endometriosis remains unclear, but several theories exist:

  • Retrograde menstruation: Menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvic cavity instead of exiting the body.
  • Immune system dysfunction: The body may fail to recognize and eliminate misplaced endometrial cells.
  • Genetic factors: Endometriosis tends to run in families, suggesting a hereditary component.
  • Hormonal imbalances: Estrogen plays a key role in the growth and progression of endometriosis.

Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing endometriosis, including a family history of the condition, early menstruation, short menstrual cycles, and high estrogen levels.

Treatment and Management

While there is no cure for endometriosis, several treatment options can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:

  1. Medications:This option provides temporary pain relief.
  • Pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen help reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Hormonal therapies: Birth control pills, hormonal IUDs, and GnRH agonists can help regulate or suppress menstrual cycles, slowing the growth of endometrial tissue.
  1. Surgical Interventions:
  • Laparoscopic excision:  Removal of endometrial implants to relieve pain and improve fertility.
  • Hysterectomy: In severe cases, removal of the uterus (with ovaries) may be considered as a last resort.
  1. Lifestyle and Alternative Therapies:
  • Diet and nutrition: Reducing inflammatory foods like processed sugar and increasing anti-inflammatory foods such as leafy greens and omega-3-rich foods can help manage symptoms temporarily.
  • Regular exercise: Helps reduce pain and improve overall well-being.
  • Mental health support: Counselling and support groups can help women cope with the emotional impact of the condition.

Raising Awareness and Breaking the Silence

Endometriosis is more than just a reproductive health issue; it is a serious medical condition that requires greater awareness, research, and support. Many women suffer in silence, believing their pain is normal. Educating young girls about menstrual health, training healthcare providers to recognize symptoms earlier, and advocating for more research funding are crucial steps in addressing the burden of endometriosis.

If you or someone you know experiences severe menstrual pain, irregular bleeding, or unexplained infertility, seeking medical advice is essential. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a significant difference in managing the condition and improving quality of life.

By speaking openly about endometriosis, we can challenge the stigma, empower women to seek help, and work toward better treatment options in the future. Let’s turn Endometriosis Awareness Month into action by spreading knowledge, supporting those affected, and pushing for advancements in women’s health.

Airtel Celebrates 2Africa Pearls Cable Landing in India

March 28, 2025: Bharti Airtel (“Airtel”), one of India’s leading telecommunications service providers has landed the 2Africa Pearls cable in the country, connecting India to Africa, and Europe via the Middle East.

Airtel is the landing partner for the 2Africa Pearls cable in India. This is in partnership with the 2Africa Pearls’ investors – center3 and Meta.

2Africa Pearls brings over 100Tbps (terabits per second) of international capacity to India. With this investment, Airtel has further diversified its global network to support India’s digital growth ambitions.

Sharat Sinha, Director & CEO – Airtel Business, said, “We are thrilled to bring the 2Africa Pearls cable to India adding to our network resilience. We are aggressively diversifying our global network and recently landed the SEA-WE-ME-6 cable in Chennai and Mumbai. We will continue investing in global cable systems and future-proof our network with an aim to deliver high uptime, reliability, and superior quality network to our customers”.

2Africa Pearls is a part of the 2Africa cable system, which will be the world’s longest subsea cable system when completed, spanning over 45,000 kilometers connecting Asia to Africa and Europe through the Middle East. The 2Africa cable system is led by a consortium of Bayobab, center3, China Mobile International, Meta, Orange, Telecom Egypt, Vodafone Group, and WIOCC, while Alcatel Submarine Networks is responsible for manufacturing and installation of the cable.

Airtel’s global network spans 400,000 Rkms (route kilometers) across 50 countries and five continents.  The company has investments in 34 cables globally with some of the recent ones including 2Africa, Southeast Asia-Japan Cable 2 (SJC2) and Equiano. Apart from these cables that connect India to key regions like APAC, Europe, the Middle East and US, Airtel’s global subsea network investments also include large cable systems like i2i Cable Network (i2icn), Europe India Gateway (EIG), IMEWE, SEA-ME-WE-4, AAG, Unity, EASSy, Gulf Bridge International (GBI) and Middle East North Africa Submarine Cable (MENA Cable) amongst many others.

Coke Studio Bharat’s ‘Holo Lolo’ Revives Assam’s Melodies with a Twist

March 28th, 2025Coke Studio Bharat, the iconic stage celebrating the confluence of diverse musical styles, presents the second track of its third season ’Holo Lolo’, a rhythmic dive into the world of a phandi (elephant trainer). Through a fusion of folk and contemporary sounds, Coke Studio Bharat brings this timeless connection to life, crafting a vivid sonic and visual experience. Voiced by Shankuraj Konwar and Shalmali Kholgade, the song blends Assam’s regional essence with Hindi, capturing the deep bond between the Phandi and his hathi saathi.

 Echoing solitude, longing, and nature’s calling, the deep-rooted traditions of Assam’s Moran community paint the tale of a phandi who roams the dense jungles and rolling hills for months, seeking pasture for his lifelong companion, his elephant. As they journey together, he pours his heart into songs, sharing whispers of love for someone who once waited in the valley. Coke Studio Bharat reimagines this poignant saga from the village of Torani with Holo Lolo, infusing it with evocative tunes and striking visuals. By weaving together folklore passed down through generations with a modern landscape, the track bridges the past and present, resonating with today’s audience while preserving the soul of an enduring legacy.

 Shankuraj Konwar said, “Bringing Holo Lolo to life has been an honor. Regional music is now at the forefront, and Coke Studio Bharat is making it happen by embracing India’s rich traditions. It’s a tribute to Assam’s history, and I’m grateful to be part of a platform that gives regional artists a national stage, carrying our roots and music across the country.”

 Shalmali Kholgade said, “Folk music has a timeless soul, and Holo Lolo beautifully blends Assamese heritage with a contemporary sound. Coke Studio Bharat is creating a space where folk music not only thrives but also resonates with a wider audience, giving traditional sounds a fresh identity while delivering what listeners seek today.”

Shantanu Gangane, IMX (Integrated Marketing Experience) Lead, Coca-Cola India, added, “Music has the power to make history sing, and that’s exactly what Coke Studio Bharat is doing. Season 3 is about more than just songs—it’s about reintroducing India to its own stories. Holo Lolo carries the depth of Assam’s heritage and gives it a new voice, proving that tradition isn’t meant to be remembered—it’s meant to be relived. With Shankuraj and Shalmali onboard, we are making sure these powerful stories don’t fade but rise.”

 Coke Studio Bharat Season 3 pushes the boundaries of musical storytelling, blending powerful visuals with rich narratives to create an immersive experience. With a deep-rooted focus on India’s cultural soundscape, this season captures the emotions of life. As the season unfolds, stay tuned for more stories, more voices, and more music that evolves, inspires, and connects audiences across the country.

L&T Celebrates Ultra Mega Contract in Hydrocarbon Industry

March 27, 2025: QatarEnergy LNG, the world’s premier LNG company, has awarded an Ultra Mega Offshore Contract for the North Field Production Sustainability Offshore Compression Project (NFPS COMP 4) to Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) Hydrocarbon Business (L&T Energy Hydrocarbon – LTEH) marking the largest single contract ever received by L&T.

The scope of work encompasses the engineering, procurement, fabrication, installation, and commissioning of two offshore compression complexes, each comprising large offshore platforms with compression & power generation facilities, living quarters, flare platforms, interconnected bridges, and other associated structures to be located at approximately 80 km off the northeast coast of Qatar.

Mr S N Subrahmanyan, Chairman & Managing Director – L&T, commented “Securing QatarEnergy LNG’s Ultra Mega Offshore Contract—the largest single order in our history, is a landmark achievement. This prestigious project strengthens our global energy portfolio while supporting Qatar’s energy security objectives. I thank QatarEnergy LNG for placing their trust in L&T to deliver this complex and strategically important project. We look forward to setting new benchmarks in project execution that will reinforce Qatar’s position as a global LNG leader.

Mr Subramanian Sarma, Deputy Managing Director & President -L&T, commented The award of a project of such nature is a reflection of the confidence and trust placed by QatarEnergy LNG in L&T’s expertise and its ability to deliver such large-scale projects for which L&T is very thankful. This collaboration not only strengthens our partnership but also reaffirms L&T’s commitment to supporting Qatar’s strategic energy objectives through innovative and reliable solutions.”