Lg Launches Premium Flagship Soundbars In India
New Delhi, 23 January 2025 – LG Electronics India Limited announced the launch of its new Soundbars – the LG S95TR and LG S90TY with Wireless Dolby Atmos® and true wireless rear surround speakers. Designed to improve home entertainment with good sound quality, innovative features, and a sleek, modern design, these models offer a synergy with LG TVs, ensuring an improved cinematic and audio experience.
LG’s S95TR Soundbar has 810W of power output, and this flagship model contains 17 precisely arranged speakers, orchestrating an enveloping surround sound experience. Its acoustic brilliance elevates the three-dimensional soundscape, broadening the horizon of the soundstage while delivering crystal-clear dialogue.
Commenting on the launch Brian Jung, Director, Home Entertainment LG Electronics India said, “The introduction of our flagship soundbars marks a significant step in our commitment to delivering technology that improves home entertainment for our customers. These soundbars are designed to offer an immersive audio experience with features such as a center-up-firing speaker, 3D Spatial Sound Technology, and wireless connectivity with LG TVs. We have combined performance with innovations to meet the evolving needs of Indian consumers.”
Key features
The LG S95TR features 9.1.5 channels with 5 up-firing speakers upgraded tweeters and integration of passive radiators. With this, the Soundbar pushes the low-frequency response down to an earthy 120Hz for balanced sound, and refined tweeters ensure that the highest frequencies are delivered with clarity for an improved audio experience. WOWCAST enables the Soundbar to connect wirelessly to select LG TVs, making the enjoyment of cinematic technologies like wireless Dolby Atmos and DTS: X®2 easier. LG’s WOW Interface provides an intuitive and user-friendly way of navigating through LG TV sound settings and, with the press of a button, utilizing LG’s WOW Orchestra technology. This alliance between the Soundbar and select LG TV orchestrates a fusion of audio channels, expanding the soundstage and adding layers of depth that improve the auditory imagery. LG’s 3D Spatial Sound Technology applies channel analysis through a 3D engine to captivate listeners with lifelike sound and an immersive sense of space. In addition, LG AI Room Calibration assesses the room’s environment and fine-tunes the settings to enhance the audio in harmony with the room’s acoustics. The AI Room Calibration introduces an extended capability to calibrate the audio of rear surround speakers, improving audio immersion and providing flexibility for installation.
The LG S90TY, on the other hand, offers a 5.1.3 channel setup with a 570W output. While it also features the center up-firing speaker, it does not include the wireless rear surround speakers found in the S95TR.
Absolut and White Label Launch UNLABEL Campaign to Break Stereotypes
23rd January, 2025 : Absolut, as part of its long-standing commitment to fostering inclusivity and breaking biases, announces the launch of its latest campaign, UNLABEL, BORN COLOURLESS. The campaign builds upon the brand’s long-standing commitment towards breaking biases, a journey that began with the ‘Born Colourless’ campaign in 2018. UNLABEL BORN COLOURLESS encourages individuals to look beyond labels and stereotypes, and instead, focus on getting to know people for who they truly are. By asking individuals to move beyond judgments and casting labels, Absolut aims to foster a more open-minded and accepting world, where everyone can thrive without the constraints of preconceived notions.
Absolut has partnered with White Label to bring this powerful message to life through a series of four compelling films. The campaign features four powerful films that aspire to spark a movement, encouraging people to look beyond labels.
Featuring personal stories from influential voices, the campaign highlights real experiences of being misjudged based on name, age, gender, profession, or background. While Ankush Bahuguna shares his journey of breaking stereotypes around men and makeup, Sunny Leone challenges the ‘item girl’ label by showcasing her life as a successful entrepreneur and a mother. Navtej Singh Johar redefines masculinity beyond traditional norms, and Deepa Malik proves that physical limitations do not define one’s potential. Through these narratives, UNLABEL reinforces the idea that we were all BornColourless—without labels or biases.
Commenting on the association, Pulkith Modi, General Manager – Marketing, International Brands at Pernod Ricard India, said, “We live in a world where people are often defined by labels based on race, gender, and societal expectations. At Absolut, we believe in a world where everyone is free to express their true selves, unburdened by these constraints. The UNLABEL BORN COLOURLESS campaign calls for a shift towards inclusivity, it is a call to action, encouraging people to look beyond assumptions and stereotypes, and to celebrate individuality and authenticity. We are thrilled to partner with such inspiring voices to bring this message to life.”
Rohit Tugnait, CEO, White Label, (a unit of White), added, “There’s a reason we’re called White Label – it’s because we believe that sticker value is just not as important as the value of the content we create. The brief from Absolut resonated with this belief system. The UNLABEL films inspire people to think beyond preconceived notions, to think beyond the sticker value of labels applied to different types of people – we love this! It’s why making these films was not just incredibly fun, it was something we, as a team, could also cherish.”
Pre-Budget Expectations from Mr. Arun Kumar Nayyar, MD & CEO, NeoGrowth
Mr. Arun Kumar Nayyar, MD, and CEO of NeoGrowth
” The contribution of MSMEs is vital in shaping the Indian economy. With the Union Budget 2025 on the horizon, we look forward to policies that will address key challenges, such as improving access to capital, simplifying business operations, and encouraging the adoption of new technologies for MSMEs.
Tax incentives for businesses investing in technology upgrades and expanding access to capital for underserved and unserved enterprises will play a pivotal role in strengthening the MSME ecosystem. Enhanced allocations for digital public infrastructure and innovation to improve credit accessibility are also crucial to enabling sustainable growth.
The MSME sector, comprising over 50 million businesses, contributes nearly one-third of India’s annual gross value added (GVA) and employs over 216 million individuals. Insights from the NeoInsights report, ‘Unlocking Generational Preferences among Indian Retailers’, reveal that 77% of MSMEs are actively planning to expand their operations.
To support this ambition, strengthening initiatives under Skill India can empower the workforce with the expertise needed to adapt to a rapidly evolving business landscape, enabling MSMEs to overcome challenges and realize their growth potential, ultimately driving significant economic progress.”
JITO Hosts Family Legacy & Asset Management Summit
NATIONAL, January 23, 2025: The JITO Incubation and Innovation Foundation is set to host a ‘family business’ Summit, bringing together industry leaders, wealth managers, and entrepreneurial families for a transformative day of discussions and collaboration. This event aims to empower family businesses with strategies for sustainable growth, while also fostering innovation by connecting startups with potential investors.
Family businesses, a cornerstone of India’s economic fabric, are evolving rapidly to embrace modern investment strategies. Globally, family offices have increasingly turned to direct investments in startups, with three-quarters reporting significant allocations to early-stage ventures. In India, family offices are becoming pivotal in generating domestic risk capital, contributing to a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. The summit will explore these trends and the critical role family businesses play in funding innovation.
D. Jeetendra Bhandari, Chairman TNAPTS Zone JIIF emphasized the need for family businesses to adapt to changing times, said “Professionalism is the need of the hour at Family Offices and managing family wealth for sustaining and expanding generational wealth in today’s dynamicinvesting market. Managing Family Wealth is as important as managing Family Businesses”.
Speaking about the SummitJeenendra Bhandari, Chairman of JITO Incubation and Innovation Foundation (JIIF) said “The future of family businesses lies in managing the Family Wealth and well-planned transition while staying rooted in their core values. At JIlf, we aim to empower our businesses families, and entrepreneurs by providing the technology, tools, insights, and opportunities to grow sustainably. With Gen Z stepping up to lead family enterprises and their generational wealth, their fresh perspectives and digital-first approach are driving transformation not only in their businesses but also investments and wealth, ensuring these legacies adapt and thrive in this VUCA world..”
A standout feature of the event will be the inspiring stories from multigenerational family businesses, offering firsthand accounts of how they have navigated complex challenges, leveraged innovation, and embraced emerging opportunities. The engaging sessions will highlight the pivotal role of Gen Z in steering family businesses forward, as this new generation drives transformation by embracing digitalization, modernizing traditional business models, and exploring uncharted investment avenues. Their leadership and fresh perspectives are proving vital in ensuring the longevity, adaptability, and global competitiveness of family enterprises, while also serving as a blueprint for families seeking to balance modernization with preserving their heritage.
The event will also feature a series of insightful discussions aimed at equipping attendees with actionable strategies to build robust family foundations that foster long-term success and stability. Participants will gain valuable knowledge about high-growth investment sectors, including opportunities in pre-IPOs, startups, the stock market, and real estate, guided by seasoned CXOs and fund managers. Additionally, the summit will delve into achieving a harmonious balance between financial success and physical well-being, with thought-provoking sessions led by industry experts.
JITO Shark Angels, a dynamic pitch session, will cap off the day, where startups will present their ideas to an audience of seasoned investors and Ultra HNIs of Chennai. This interactive segment will provide a unique platform for innovation and funding, further bridging the gap between traditional family businesses and the entrepreneurial ecosystem while offering an unparalleled opportunity to connect with some of the most influential investors in the region.
This summit is a must-attend for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and aspiring professionals looking to gain practical insights, expand their networkand stay ahead in today’s rapidly evolving economic landscape.
Budget wishlist by Industry Experts
by Tarun Chugh, MD & CEO Bajaj Allianz Life
India’s economic growth presents immense opportunities for the insurance sector to enhance financial resilience. Anticipated income tax cuts in the upcoming budget could boost disposable income, driving higher life insurance penetration.
With the elderly population (50+) projected to grow by 22% in the next six years, incentivizing pension product is imperative.
Aligning tax deduction of life insurance annuity products with the National Pension Scheme (NPS) and addressing the issue of tax on principal component on annuity products can evolve retirement needs effectively.
We urge the government to introduce separate tax deduction for term insurance and extending the tax deduction on life insurance premium under new tax regime as well. These measures will empower individuals to build robust financial safety nets and advance the vision of ‘Insurance for All by 2047’, thereby fostering long-term financial security and inclusivity.
by Mr. Naveen Chandra Jha, MD & CEO, SBI General Insurance.
“Health insurance has emerged as a crucial safety net for Indian families, shielding them from unexpected medical expenses. According to the IBEF report, India is the 4th largest general insurance market in Asia and the 14th largest globally. Data from IRDAI’s annual reports reveals that health insurance has grown steadily at approximately 25% annually over the past three years, highlighting its importance in protecting households.
As India advances toward financial inclusivity and universal healthcare, Budget 2025 offers a pivotal opportunity to further strengthen the health insurance sector. Anticipated policy measures include enhancing accessibility, simplifying tax benefits, and encouraging innovation in insurance products. Initiatives such as Bima Sugam, designed to achieve the goal of ‘Insurance for All’ by 2047, are expected to receive regulatory and fiscal support to address the protection gap. Additionally, the budget is likely to focus on expanding access in underserved regions through government-private partnerships, targeted subsidies, and advancements in digital infrastructure. By fostering a conducive ecosystem, Budget 2025 can empower insurers to contribute to a healthier, more secure India, aligning with the vision of a Viksit Bharat.”
by Srikanth Kandikonda – Chief Financial Officer, ManipalCigna Health Insurance.
With the Hon. Finance Minister presenting the Union Budget in a few days, the health insurance sector stands at a pivotal moment where policy reforms could significantly transform the landscape of healthcare accessibility and coverage in India.
Healthcare costs are rising significantly and expected to double in six years, we urge the government to implement measures that can help make healthcare more affordable for all Indians. For a healthier Bharat, the outlay for healthcare spend has been proposed to be increased to 2.5% of the GDP by 2025 as per the National Health Policy. While India’s out-of-pocket expenditure has seen a decline from 64.2% 2013-14 to around 40% in 2021-22 as per the national health accounts estimate, we are still working towards our mission of achieving Universal Health Coverage. Hence, we request the government to increase outlay for public healthcare spend during this budget, as this is the need of the hour.
Given the rising healthcare costs and the need for higher sum insured cover, the government should reduce tax burden by increasing the limits under Section 80D of income tax for premium paid for health insurance to Rs 50,000 for all and Rs 1 Lakh for senior citizens. This is crucial for achieving the government’s vision ‘Insurance for all by 2047’ and would substantially reduce the financial burden on families investing in their health and financial wellbeing.
Taneira’s First Brand Film Featuring Usha Uthup and Mrunal Thakur Highlights Craftsmanship and Tradition
23 January, 2025: Taneira, a TATA product has unveiled its first-ever brand campaign, a strategic initiative designed to reinforce its core promises of Trust, Authenticity, Purity, Craftsmanship, Diverse Indian Weaves Under One Roof. The campaign features the legendary Usha Uthup, well-known for her deep love for sarees, alongside the graceful Mrunal Thakur. Together, they bring alive the brand’s dedication to preserving and promoting the textile heritage of the country while empowering consumers to make informed choices. The campaign highlights the timeless elegance of handwoven sarees and the stories they carry, reaffirming Taneira as the ultimate destination for those seeking sarees unequivocally rich in both tradition and trend.
The film unfolds within a vibrant Taneira store, where Mrunal Thakur is seen draping a stunning pure silk saree and seeking the ‘expert’ opinion of Usha Uthup. What follows is an interaction laced with playful exchanges that are a slice of everyday life and resonates with every ardent saree shopper. Their conversation adds a touch of charm while addressing common concerns that many consumers have, from choosing the right fabric to gauging the authenticity of a saree. Through a series of delightful moments, the film underscores the unique qualities of Taneira Sarees, such as pure silk credentials, proudly certified with the Silk Mark tag, to their intricately handwoven designs crafted by master artisans from across the country. It brings to life the enduring allure of these pieces while reassuring consumers that Taneira offers transparency, authenticity, and craftsmanship they can trust.
Sharing her thoughts on this campaign, singer Usha Uthup expressed, “For me, sarees are not just a part of my attire, they are a part of my personal identity. Taneira’s commitment to preserving the art of saree weaving while embracing contemporary design interpretations mirrors my own values of celebrating cultural legacy and individual expression. It is truly special to be involved with a brand that celebrates the timeless beauty of sarees, while making them accessible to women who value both style and meaning in their wardrobe.”
At the heart of the narrative lies the breathtaking ‘Mor design’ Banarasi saree, adorned with over a hundred intricately woven peacocks. This masterpiece spotlights Taneira’s ability to bring unique yet timeless designs to life through unmatched craftsmanship of India’s weaving traditions.
Uthup added, “This partnership feels like a natural extension of my long-standing love for sarees and my passion to support artisans whose craft deserves to be cherished and shared with the world”.
Speaking on the launch of the campaign, Mr. Ambuj Narayan, CEO, Taneira, said “At Taneira, our goal is to offer authenticity with transparency, all at a price that reflects value, while telling the stories of the hands that painstakingly bring each piece to life. We are dedicated to celebrating the seamless blend of heritage and modernity, and this campaign embodies that vision by bringing to life the rich legacy of Indian textiles at the heart of what Taneira represents. It has been an honor to collaborate with a legend like Usha Uthup and the very gracious Mrunal Thakur to tell this story and inspire a deeper connection with the artistry behind every Taneira saree”.
Speaking about the association, actress Mrunal Thakur said, “It has been my pleasure to be a part of this campaign with Taneira and a living legend, Usha Uthup Ma’am. Over the past year, my collaborations with Taneira have been truly enriching. Not only have I been privileged to experience their differentiated designs, but also the diverse crafts they embody. Every collaboration has deepened my appreciation for the sarees and stories they tell. This campaign perfectly captures that journey and feels incredibly meaningful as it aligns with my own fashion philosophy”.
Puneet Kapoor, Chief Creative Officer, Ogilvy South – “Taneira set out to showcase its value propositions to both new saree enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs. We asked ourselves some tough questions: Can a brand withstand the scrutiny of the most knowledgeable customers—those who might know as much, if not more, about sarees than we do? While Mrunal has long been the elegant face of Taneira, the real triumph was bringing on the iconic Usha Uthup, the undisputed goddess of sarees in India. This dynamic duo infused our story with charm, entertainment, and emotion, offering a compelling spin on the essence of our value propositions.”
Wear Your Story with Janvi Sachdeva: Silver that Speaks
In a world where jewellery often falls into two extremes – either precious diamonds that feel out of reach or costume pieces that lack soul – Janvi Sachdeva spotted a sweet spot that was waiting to be filled. The brand brings to life unique, statement-making pieces crafted in 92.5 silver that sit confidently between fine jewellery and imitation wear. Each design tells its own story, featuring thoughtfully set gemstones and distinctive aesthetics that break away from the usual. What makes Janvi Sachdeva stand out isn’t just the affordable luxury it offers, but how each piece pushes creative boundaries while remaining wearable. The brand proves that you don’t need to compromise on design or empty your savings to own jewellery that turns heads.
Sometimes, the best ideas come from breaking family traditions. While her family specialised in crafting footwear, young Janvi Sachdeva Kapoor found herself drawn to a different form of artistry: jewellery. Armed with determination and a clear vision, she pursued her education at India’s most prestigious jewellery institutes, GIA Mumbai and IIGJ Delhi, before advancing her skills at Alchimia, the contemporary jewellery school in Florence. Coming from a non-jewellery background became her greatest strength, allowing her to bring fresh perspectives to an age-old craft. Today, Janvi’s mission goes beyond creating just another jewellery brand. She is building a legacy where each piece is bold yet affordable, luxurious yet accessible, and designed to be cherished and passed down through generations.
Breaking new ground in silver jewellery design, Janvi Sachdeva’s collections reflect life’s diverse inspirations. The brand’s standout Spirit Animal collection ventured into uncharted territory, transforming the profound human-animal connection into wearable designs – a theme that resonated deeply with collectors. This innovative spirit continued through subsequent collections: Revamp of the Vintage breathed modern life into Victorian elegance, while Blooming Girls celebrated natural imperfections through floral designs. The Empress collection redefined royal aesthetics for contemporary women, and Style de Moderne turned architectural marvels into striking jewellery pieces. Among recent releases, the versatile XO earrings have become an instant favourite, proving that thoughtful design can blend into everyday wear.
From busy professionals to style-conscious mothers, Janvi Sachdeva’s creations speak to confident women aged 25-60 who appreciate standout jewellery without compromising on quality. These designs then come to life in the skilled hands of artisans in Agra and Jaipur, crafted exclusively in BIS hallmarked 92.5 silver and adorned with carefully selected gemstones. Understanding that personal style often calls for a personal touch, the brand offers customisation options, working closely with clients to create pieces that perfectly match their vision.
With sights set firmly on the global stage, Janvi Sachdeva aims to build a legacy that rivals international jewellery houses like Cartier and Tiffany. The brand’s unique fusion of Indian craftsmanship with English design influences positions it perfectly for the international market, where it hopes to catch the eye of Hollywood stars just as foreign brands have captured Bollywood’s imagination.
Prime Video Reveals First-Look Images for Season Three of The Wheel of Time
MUMBAI, India – January 23, 2025 – Today, Prime Video released ten first-look images for The Wheel of Time’s upcoming third season, which will debut globally on March 13, 2025. This release is part of #WOTWednesdays, a fan-favorite weekly reveal of series news and assets leading up to the season premiere. The Wheel of Time is co-produced by Sony Pictures Television and Amazon MGM Studios and is based on Robert Jordan’s best-selling epic fantasy book series of the same name.
In The Wheel of Time, a humble farm boy, Rand al’Thor, learns he is The Dragon Reborn—a dangerous figure from history destined to save the world … or break it. The Wheel of Time turns, and the Last Battle approaches.
After defeating Ishamael, one of the most powerful of the Forsaken, at the end of Season Two, Rand reunites with his friends in the city of Falme and is declared the Dragon Reborn. But in Season Three, the threats against the Light are multiplying: the White Tower stands divided, the Black Ajah runs free, old enemies return to the Two Rivers, and the remaining Forsaken are in hot pursuit of the Dragon… including Lanfear, whose relationship with Rand will mark a crucial choice between Light and Dark for them both. As the ties to his past begin to unravel, and his corrupted power grows stronger, Rand becomes increasingly unrecognizable to his closest allies, Moiraine and Egwene. These powerful women, who started the series as teachers and students, must now work together to prevent the Dragon from turning to the Dark…no matter the cost.
The Wheel of Time series on Prime Video has solidified its place as a monumental success for the platform. Based on Robert Jordan’s beloved and epic fantasy book series, the show weaves a tale of magic, destiny, and adventure that has captured the imagination of fans worldwide. In 2021, Season One launched as the biggest original series debut in Prime Video history at the time, excelling in both reach and subscriber acquisition. It continues to remain among the top three series debuts of all time on Prime Video behind The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power and Fallout. Overall, the show has generated more than 100 million viewers worldwide to date. Additionally, both Seasons One and Two are Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, further cementing the show’s critical acclaim. The Wheel of Time serves as a cornerstone of Amazon MGM Studios’ suite of successful, high-quality tentpole fantasy series, and together, these series underscore the studio’s leadership in delivering premium storytelling to a global audience.
The Wheel of Time stars Rosamund Pike (Saltburn, Gone Girl) as Moiraine Damodred, Daniel Henney (Criminal Minds) as al’Lan Mandragoran, Josha Stradowski (Gran Turismo) as Rand al’Thor, Zoë Robins (Power Rangers Ninja Steel) as Nynaeve al’Meara, Madeleine Madden (Dora and the Lost City of Gold) as Egwene al’Vere, Marcus Rutherford (Obey) as Perrin Aybara, Dónal Finn (Rogue Heroes) as Mat Cauthon, Ceara Coveney (Young Wallander) as Elayne Trakand, Kate Fleetwood (Harlots) as Leandrin Guirale, Natasha O’Keeffe (Peaky Blinders) as Lanfear, Ayoola Smart (Killing Eve) as Aviendha, Kae Alexander (Game of Thrones) as Min Farshaw, Sophie Okenedo (Hotel Rwanda, Slow Horses) as Siuan Sanche, and Shohreh Aghdashloo (House of Saddam, The Penguin) as Elaida do Avriny a’Roihan.
The Wheel of Time was adapted for television by executive producer and showrunner Rafe Judkins (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Hemlock Grove). Rick Selvage and Larry Mondragon of two productions (Winter Dragon), Ted Field of Radar Pictures (Jumanji: The Next Level, Winter Dragon), Mike Weber (Jumanji: The Next Level, Beirut), Marigo Kehoe (Outlander, The Crown), Ciaran Donnelly (Kin), Justine Juel Gillmer (The Survivor, Halo), Dave Hill (Game of Thrones) and Rosamund Pike (Saltburn, Gone Girl) also serve as executive producers. The Wheel of Time is co-produced by Sony Pictures Television and Amazon MGM Studios.
Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir to be Part of the Sacred Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj, 2025
23rd January 2025: Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir and the Hare Krishna Movement are currently participating in the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, the World’s largest spiritual gathering, held in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025. Millions of devotees, visitors, sadhus and saints of different sects will converge at the sacred confluence of the three rivers, the Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati.
In this 45-day grand event, Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir aspires to enrich the spiritual and cultural experience of everyone visiting Kumbh Mela. Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir and Hare Krishna Movement are actively contributing to this once-in-12-year festival of faith and culture through various devotional, spiritual and social initiatives on the sacred land of Prayagraj.
Talking about the Maha Kumbh Mela, Sri Chanchalapathi Dasa, President – Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir and Vice Chairman & Co-Mentor- Hare Krishna Movement said, “Kumbh Mela this year is called Maha Kumbh Mela. Once in 12 years comes a Purna Kumbh Mela and 12 such cycles later, Kumbh Mela that comes is called Maha Kumbh Mela. So. this Maha Kumbh Mela is coming after 144 years. Hence, it is a very special Kumbh Mela.”
He added, ”In 1971, Srila Prabhupada (Founder – Acharya of the Worldwide Hare Krishna Movement) personally participated in the Kumbh Mela and invited devotees worldwide to join him. He considered it a wonderful opportunity in distributing Krishna consciousness. So, this year too, we are having Bhagavat Katha, Harinaam Sankirtan, Distribution of books like Bhagavad Gita and very importantly – Profuse Prasadam Distribution. You will be able to participate in all these festivities. Do come and join us.”
Key Initiatives and Services by Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir
- Annadan Seva: One of the significant services, through Annadan Seva, we aim to provide over 20,000 nutritious and fresh meals daily to all the pilgrims and sadhus.
- Blanket Distribution: Free blankets will be distributed to the pilgrims, saints and visitors to protect them from freezing cold weather.
- Book Distribution: Distribution of Vedic literatures like Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatam and others to spread the spiritual wisdom to all the visitors and pilgrims.
- Pravachan / Spiritual Discourses: Daily discourses on the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam will be conducted by the senior devotees on a daily basis to inspire and encourage the visitors towards spiritual enlightenment and knowledge.
- Nagar Sankirtan and Shobha Yatra: Daily processions will be organised where the Deities will be taken around on a palanquin accompanied by sankirtan and devotional prayers.
Facilities at Mahakumbh Mela by Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir
- Katha Hall: A spacious Katha hall where spiritual discourses are held will be facilitated, which can accommodate 1000 people at a time.
- Temple Hall: A temple where Deities will be worshipped with Sankirtana, arati and other pujas.
- Mega Kitchen: The well-equipped mega kitchen with trained staff, who will prepare and serve more than 20,000 meals everyday.
- Food Distribution Hall: The Food Distribution or Feeding Hall is planned to accommodate 1,000 people per batch with clean water and sitting facility.
The Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir and Hare Krishna Movement Camp is located at Sector 6, Near Nag Vasuki Temple, Maha Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj.
Important Dates
13 January, 2025: Paush Poornima
14 January, 2025: Makar Sankranti
29 January, 2025: Mauni Amavasya
03 February, 2025: Basant Panchami
04 February, 2025: Achala Saptami
12 February, 2025: Maghi Purnima
26 February, 2025: Maha Shivratri
IMS Noida Advocates for Transformative Policies on International Day of Education
Noida: Wishing to represent the idea on the International Day of Education, the Director General, IMS Noida, Prof. Dr. Vikas Dhawan believes that this country needs absolute change in policies of education and it should be given prominence by the government in the upcoming Union Budget 2025.
Speaking of challenges and opportunities, Dr. Dhawan said that “education forms the cornerstone of a thriving nation” and it becomes imperative for India to align the policies with international standards while taking on the unique socio-economic fabric of the country. There is a potential in the union budget to overcome the lacuna in quality education, skill development, and inclusive access. For him, focus areas include –
- Budgetary Expenditure Adjustment: NEP 2020 should increase expenditure on education to at least 6% of the GDP, along with infrastructure, training, and so forth, in the same area.
- Learning by Skills: There should be policies that facilitate cooperation between industry and academia with such an intent that the emerging industries, be it AI or renewable energy, blockchain so, students learn the practicals, hands by skill.
- Digital Education: Establish wholesome high-speed internet in rural and semi-urban regions, affordable electronics, and wide e-learning modules.
- Teacher Empowerment: Upskilling teachers at the national level on innovative teaching methods and hybrid learning space transformation.
- Higher Education Support: Grants for research and innovation on topics of STEM, as well as international collaborations with Indian universities.
According to him, scholarships must also be more inclusive. “I will request the government to increase scholarship funding and underprivileged group programs, particularly girl child and other marginalized sections”, Dr. Dhawan added.
Dr. Dhawan concluded, “The International Day of Education reminds us that we, collectively, bear responsibility for shaping the future through learning. The Union Budget 2025 needs to reflect this vision of building up every single student, every single educator, and every single institution to their maximum potential.”.
IMS Noida has always been ahead of the curve with transformative initiatives that relate to its mission of excellence in education and preparing for the fast-changing demands of this dynamic world.