From Childhood to Fame: Stars Talk Sibling Strength

Having a sibling is undoubtedly one of life’s most precious blessings. The exceptional bond that siblings share is unparalleled. They serve as our closest friends and strongest competitors, urging us to excel, sometimes embarrassing us, and always inspiring us to be our best selves. National Siblings Day on April 10th celebrates this bond and honours the laughter, the love, and the enduring togetherness that makes this day a momentous occasion. &TV actors Amit Bhardwaj (Mewa, Bheema), Himani Shivpuri (Katori Amma, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Shubhangi Atre (Angoori Bhabi, Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai) talk about how their siblings have been their anchor, support system, and source of unconditional love. Amit Bhardwaj, Mewa in &TV’s show Bheema, shares, “My younger brother Sumit is not just my sibling; he is my silent strength and the wind beneath my wings. During my struggling days as an aspiring actor, when dreams felt too distant and hope seemed faint, Sumit stood by me like a rock. He believed in me even when I questioned myself. Whether it was those countless late-night pep talks or quietly transferring money when I needed it most, his actions spoke volumes. He never made me feel small for needing help; instead, he lifted me every single time. His quiet sacrifices and relentless support have deeply touched my heart. I owe a big part of my journey to him. On this Siblings Day, I just want to say thank you, bhai, for never giving up on me. You’ve shown me what it truly means to be family.”

Himani Shivpuri, Katori Amma in &TV’s show Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, says, “My brother Himanshu has been my guiding star throughout life. We have shared joys and sorrows, wins and losses, but through it all, he remained my constant, always calm, always strong. His strength gave me courage when I felt lost. From our childhood to now, he has played every role: friend, guide, and at times, even a father figure. His unwavering presence helped me raise my son, Katyayan, with love and assurance. There were days when I felt the burden of life pressing down on me, and it was Himanshu who lightened it with his wisdom and warmth. On this special day, I honour him not just as my brother but as the solid ground on which I have built my resilience. Happy Siblings Day to the brother who’s been my lifelong companion and protector.” Shubhangi Atre, Angoori Bhabi in &TV’s show Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, shares, “I feel truly blessed to have two elder sisters who have been nothing short of angels in my life. Our bond is one of unwavering love, resilience, and shared strength. As our father continues his battle with cancer, this journey has tested us emotionally in ways we never imagined. But through every hospital visit, every difficult conversation, and every tear shed in silence, we have stood firmly by each other and, most importantly, by our mother’s side. The three of us have become pillars of strength for one another, holding each other up on days when it feels too heavy to carry alone. Even in the toughest moments, their presence gives me courage and hope. This Siblings Day, I want to say that, being the youngest, I have always looked up to you both, and today, more than ever, I feel grateful for the unity and love we share. Together, we are not just surviving this; we are walking through it with grace, as one strong family.”

Watch your favourite artists in Bheema at 8:30 pm, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan at 10:00 pm, and Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai at 10:30 pm, airing every Monday to Friday only on &TV!

​Cipla’s Breathefree Yatra Enhances Nationwide Respiratory Care Access

Mangalore 11th April 2025 , 2025: In its continued commitment to raising awareness about respiratory health and advocating for effective therapy solutions, Cipla Ltd.’s patient support initiative, Breathefree, continues its impactful journey across the country with the Breathefree Yatra. The Yatra is dedicated to helping individuals assess and understand their respiratory health through widespread awareness and direct patient support. Aiming to improve access to screening channels for chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), the Breathefree Yatra has, travelled to more than 335 towns, conducted 6,600+ camps, and supported close to 10 Lakh patients across India.

Emphasizing the need to focus on respiratory health amidst growing challenges, Dr. Megha S.N., Consultant Pulmonologist, Mangalore said, Millions are exposed daily to harmful levels of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) from vehicle emissions, industrial pollutants, construction dust, and agricultural waste burning. Additionally, in cities with an Air Quality Index (AQI) above 500, breathing the air is akin to smoking 25-30 cigarettes a day.[1] These factors significantly contribute to the rising respiratory disease burden, while also triggering frequent exacerbations of asthma and COPD. With a focus on empowering patients and caregivers while providing the public with accurate information, initiatives like the Breathefree Yatra address the growing burden of respiratory diseases in India through education, early diagnosis, and patient support.

​Shiv Aroor Brings Expertise to NDTV 24×7’s Evening Shows

NDTV 24×7 is reinforcing its position as the country’s most trusted English news channel, with a power-packed lineup that is redefining prime-time. The prime-time slate is not only driving consistent viewership growth but also outpacing much of the competition—offering credible journalism that cuts through the noise.

Prime-time kicks off at 7:00 PM with The Southern View, where Veeraraghav brings sharp insights into South India’s political and economic shifts, connecting regional developments with the national narrative. At 7:30 PM, Vasudha Venugopal takes over with Newsbreak, delivering the day’s key headlines with clarity and context, setting the stage for deeper conversations ahead.

By 8:30 PM, The Last Word with Marya Shakil dives into the day’s most pressing stories through powerful ground reports and incisive political analysis. At 9:00 PM, Vishnu Som anchors Left, Right & Centre, a space for respectful and balanced debate that consistently elevates discourse with fact-driven dialogue. Rounding it off, News Night at 10:00 PM with Deepti Sachdeva brings perspective and poise, offering calm, clear analysis that reflects NDTV’s hallmark of thoughtful, fact-first reporting.

Adding strength to this compelling prime-time slate is the arrival of seasoned journalist Shiv Aroor, who now joins NDTV 24×7. Known for his impactful reporting and sharp editorial insight, Shiv brings a distinctive voice to the newsroom, making the line-up truly unmissable.

Speaking about the channel’s growing momentum, Mr. Sanjay Pugalia, Director and Editor-In-Chief, NDTV said, “Our Prime Time line-up reflects the strength and depth of our network and is only set to grow stronger. The rise in viewership during these hours is a clear indicator that we are headed in the right direction and that we continue to earn the trust of our audience.”

 With the unwavering commitment to integrity and innovation, NDTV 24×7 remains at the forefront of credible news, driving conversations that matter.

VESIM Successfully Hosts III 2025 to Bridge Industry and Academia

Mumbai, 11th April 2025 – The Corporate Relations & Placement Team of Vivekanand Education Society’s Institute of Management Studies and Research (VESIM) successfully organized the much-anticipated Industry, Interface and Interaction League 2025 (III 2025). Designed as a powerful platform to connect academia with the ever-evolving corporate world, the event saw enthusiastic participation from approximately 250 MMS students who engaged in dynamic sessions with experienced professionals from leading organizations.

The event featured an impressive lineup of industry stalwarts, each bringing a wealth of knowledge from diverse domains such as finance, HR, marketing, logistics, operations, and fundraising. Among the speakers were Mr. Dharmesh Joshi, Head – New Business at Hilti; Mr. Hemant Verma, Vice President at Fisdom; Mr. Rajeev Kesarwani, Account Director at Razorpay; and Ms. Kripa Patro, HR Business Partner at Aditya Birla – Opus. Adding depth to the discussions were Mr. Virendra Choudhury, Director at Indinet Logistics Pvt. Ltd.; Mr. Kamal Mittal, Head – Fund Raising at Rustomjee Realty; Mr. Manish Tolani, Territory Manager at TTK; Mr. Vijay Sonpar, Vice President at Cigaer – CreditCheck Partners; Mr. Hemal Thakkar, Director at Crisil; Mr. Urmil Shah, Senior Research Analyst at Ageas Federal Life Insurance; and Ms. Bhawana Mishra, Category Manager at Tata Croma.

The discussions throughout the event revolved around the future of work, digital transformation, and the rise of emerging job roles. Students gained valuable insights into how personal branding, strategic networking, and consistent upskilling have become essential pillars for sustaining professional relevance and growth in today’s dynamic job market. The speakers emphasized the importance of adaptability and lifelong learning, highlighting how technological disruptions and evolving business models demand continuous evolution from professionals. Real-world corporate challenges, personal anecdotes, and stories of resilience were shared generously by industry leaders, offering students both inspiration and practical guidance. These narratives not only showcased the grit required to navigate corporate complexities but also highlighted the importance of emotional intelligence, leadership agility, and ethical decision-making in shaping successful careers. Additionally, domain-specific sessions in HR, Finance, Marketing, and Operations enriched the academic perspective by bridging theoretical frameworks with industry application. Experts discussed current trends like data-driven decision-making, digital marketing strategies, sustainable supply chain practices, and the evolving role of human capital management. These sessions helped students understand sector-specific expectations, skill gaps, and emerging opportunities, empowering them to align their career trajectories with industry needs. Moreover, panel discussions and interactive Q&A segments encouraged critical thinking and active participation, fostering a culture of curiosity and informed dialogue. Overall, the event not only illuminated the future of work but also equipped students with the mindset and tools needed to thrive in it.

Dr. Vijay T. Raisinghani, Director of VESIM, said “At VESIM, we believe in empowering students with not just academic knowledge but also with real-world insights. The Industry, Interface and Interaction League 2025 stands as a shining example of our vision to create future-ready professionals through meaningful engagement with industry leaders. I congratulate the Corporate Relations & Placement Team for this exemplary initiative and extend my gratitude to all the esteemed speakers for inspiring our students.”

The resounding success of the Industry, Interface and Interaction League 2025 underscores VESIM’s unwavering commitment to fostering strong industry-academia partnerships. By providing a vibrant platform for direct engagement with seasoned professionals, VESIM continues to equip its MMS students with the practical knowledge, essential skills, and invaluable connections needed to thrive in the dynamic and competitive corporate landscape, ultimately shaping them into future-ready leaders.

SahiBandhu Rebrands as Manipal Fintech Amid Rising Gold Loan Demand

India, 11th April 2025 – SahiBandhu, India’s most trusted gold loan enablement platform, today announced its rebranding as Manipal Fintech Private Limited. This strategic evolution reflects the company’s accelerated growth, evolving business vision, and future-focused approach to delivering tech-enabled financial solutions. Rooted in the values of the Manipal Group, the company enters this new chapter with a strong legacy and a renewed focus on innovation, agility, and scalable growth.

Over the years, SahiBandhu has built a robust and trusted ecosystem in the gold loan segment, enabling seamless lending journeys in partnership with leading banks across India. The platform has consistently delivered impact by simplifying access to credit, and this shift to Manipal Fintech marks a step forward in delivering simpler, more inclusive, and technology-led financial solutions.

Announcing the rebranding, Puja Singh, CEO, Manipal Fintech, said“The transition to Manipal Fintech is more than a rebranding, it is a reflection of the evolution we have undergone as a company and the future we are committed to building. Over the years, we have earned the trust of customers and banking partners by delivering transparent, secure, and seamless gold loan services. With this transformation, we are scaling our efforts to make finance more accessible, seamless, and secure for every Indian. Backed by the Manipal Group’s legacy of trust, we are positioned to lead the next phase of financial innovation, delivering long-term value to customers and partners.”

This rebranding highlights the company’s strategic roadmap, which includes entering adjacent financial services categories, expanding its footprint in untapped regions, investing in next-generation fintech infrastructure, and strengthening its partnerships across the financial ecosystem. With this renewed identity, Manipal Fintech is committed to bridging the gap between traditional banking and modern financial expectations, delivering solutions that are faster, smarter, and more accessible to all.

The transition to Manipal Fintech comes with a refreshed visual identity. The logo features a bird forming the letter ‘M’, symbolizing financial freedom, progress, and upward momentum. The blue gradient conveys digital agility, while the gold gradient represents trust, value creation, and sustainable growth.

​US Tariff Hike on China Opens Growth Avenue for Indian Electronics: Sumant Parimal​

11th April 2025New Delhi:Recently US President Trump announced imposing 125% tariff on China, and paused tariff increase for other nations for 90 days. India is also among those nations for which tariff enhancement got suspended by president Trump for 90 days.

As per Tech industry analyst Mr Sumant Parimal of 5 Jewels Research at Innogress, this substantial increase of tariff by US on Chinese goods is going to create a bright spot for Indian Tech. industry particularly in Semiconductor, Electronics and Hardware areas.

While speaking in ‘Semiconductor and Beyond’ conclave at JSS University, Noida recently Mr Sumant Parimal said “As China is a key exporter of Semiconductor, Electronics, Hardware components and its raw materials to US, recent stiff tariff increase by US on Chinees goods, including semiconductor, electronics and hardware items, to the tune of 125% shall be creating a bright spot for Indian Semiconductor, Electronics and Hardware industry. This is second opportunity for India in recent time to emerge as semiconductor, electronics and hardware manufacturer and exporter, post Covid triggered supply chain disruptions happened few years back”.

While Govt. of India Semiconductor Mission and PLI (Production Linked Incentive) schemes are already operationalized in India, leading to several recent capacity addition projects rollout in private sector including a semiconductor fab at Gujarat by Tata Electronics, however Global geo political and trade scenarios are fast changing particularly after recent tariff differential between India and China, which may act as catalyst for growth of Semiconductor and Electronics industry in India” said Mr Sumant Parimal. 

 He has also highlighted importance of India leading in Quantum Computing and Quantum Tech. race for achieving a developed nation status by 2047.

“For growth of Quantum Computing and other Quantum Technologies like Quantum Sensing, Quantum Communication, we also need to create various industry related use cases such that industry finds quantum technology relevant for adoption. Since Quantum Computing is far superior in many aspects from the classical computing technology, hence in addition to developing new superior technologies like Quantum Tech., it is equally important to evolve businesses such that it requires faster and superior technologies like QuantumMr Sumant Parimal added further.

 He also mentioned need of innovation for giving alternative of classical computing technology beyond semiconductor.

This conclave was presided over by Shri H R Mahadevaswamy, VC JSS University, Noida and hosted by Electronics & Communication department of JSS University Noida”.

​Starbucks and Swiggy Celebrate Launch of 50th Bengaluru Store

National, April 11th, 2025: Starbucks, a global coffeehouse, recently celebrated the launch of Starbucks 50th outlet in Bengaluru. The launch event of Starbucks first drive-thru store in the city was attended by the CEO of Starbucks, Sushant Dash and Rohit Kapoor, CEO of Swiggy Food Marketplace. The event celebrated the craftsmanship and commitment of the partnership to deliver top quality food and beverages to consumers across the country. Swiggy delivery partners were also present at the launch event.

Swiggy and Starbucks joined hands 8 years ago with only 6 outlets in Mumbai. The partnership has grown stronger over the years. The duo has collaborated and launched numerous customer-centric campaigns based on in-depth understanding of customer behavior, with the objective of enhancing consumer experience. Some of the marquee campaigns include ‘Double the Love,’ ‘Friday Frappuccino,’ and ‘Items at 199.’ Starbucks and Swiggy had also partnered to roll out the ‘Classics’ menu to roll out high-value meal items and combos tailored specifically for the Indian market.

Starbucks is proud to partner with Swiggy across 70 cities and 350+ outlets in India. To mark the milestone moment of the launch of the 50th Starbucks store in Bangalore Rohit Kapoor, CEO, Food Marketplace, Swiggy, joined 50 Swiggy delivery partners on a celebratory ride to the new store for a cup of Starbucks coffee. To make the occasion even more special, Sushant Dash, ceo, TATA Starbucks, personally brewed a signature Americano for Rohit, commemorating this remarkable journey and shared commitment to delivering great coffee experiences to customers across the country.

Commenting on the collaboration, Sushant Dash, CEO, Tata Starbucks, said, “Our 50th store in Bengaluru and first Drive-Thru in South India marks an exciting new chapter in our growth journey- one rooted in accessibility, innovation, and deep local relevance. At Starbucks, we use the specialty grade Arabica for every cup of coffee, serving the finest quality to every consumer. Swiggy has been a trusted partner in this journey, helping us deliver the Starbucks experience to customers wherever they are. As we expand across India, we remain committed to crafting new moments of connection, whether in-store or delivered to your doorstep.”

Speaking on the sidelines of the launch, Mr. Rohit Kapoor, CEO, Swiggy Food Marketplace, said, “Starbucks’ 50th store in Bengaluru is not just a milestone for their retail footprint, but also a marker of how far this partnership has come. From just a handful of stores in one city to now serving customers in 70 cities, Swiggy has been proud to partner with Starbucks every step of the way. Together, we’ve worked to make high-quality coffee and food experiences more accessible to millions of consumers across the country. As we scale further, we’re excited to keep pushing boundaries and delivering memorable experiences, one order at a time.”

Gurdas Maan to Perform at Grand Baisakhi Mela 2025 in Hyderabad

Hyderabad, April 11th, 2025The Telangana Punjabi Sabha – committed to Punjabi community welfare, is hosting its flagship annual celebration, Baisakhi Mela 2025, in association with the Telangana Tourism Development Corporation Ltd.; as the official Hospitality Partner, on Sunday, 13th April 2025 at HICC Novotel, Hyderabad; from 6:30 PM onwards. As part of the celebrations, the event will feature, a soul-stirring live performance by Legendary Punjabi singer Gurdas Maan; a high octane Bhangra & Gidda performance by a renowned dance troupe from Patiala and a laughter-filled comedy act by Ms. Shashi Dhiman from Chandigarh. Over 3,000 to 4,000 audience is expected to attend the event, which promises to be a memorable evening of music, dance, and cultural vibrancy.

Mr. Ravinder Singh Sarna, President, Telangana Punjabi Sabha; said, Baisakhi Mela marks the vibrant New Year festivities of the Punjabi community. This year, we’re taking the celebrations to an all-new high, with an unforgettable evening filled with music, laughter, and cultural pride as the legendary Gurdas Maan takes the stage to mesmerize the audience with his soulful performances. Adding to the excitement, the hilarious Shashi Dhiman will have everyone in splits with her rib-tickling stand-up act. The entire Punjabi community of Hyderabad and Telangana will come together for the joyous celebrations.

Mr. Surender Pal Singh Saluja, Advisor, Telangana Punjabi Sabha; said, Telangana Punjabi Sabha organises numerous programs and celebrations including Baisakhi, Lohri, Diwali milan. The Sabha’s women’s wing, Phulkari, the women undertake several social and cultural initiatives. 

Beyond festivities, the Telangana Punjabi Sabha has remained committed to community welfare, contributing to disaster relief, organizing health camps, and promoting social causes. Its women’s wing, Phulkari, continues to champion women’s empowerment through events, discussions, and outreach activities. In the past the Sabha hosted some of the biggest names in Punjabi entertainment, including Daler Mehndi, Jasbir Jassi, Hard Kaur, Hans Raj Hans, Sugandha Mishra, Meet Brothers, and Ms. Satinder Sartaj, reinforcing its reputation as a premier cultural platform in South India.

Audi India Hits 6,500+ EV Charging Points with ‘Charge My Audi’

Mumbai, April 11, 2025: Audi, the German luxury car manufacturer, today announced a transformative leap in electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, crossing 6,500+ charging points across the country as part of Phase II of its segment-first ‘Charge My Audi’ initiative. The brand has added 16 new partners to accelerate luxury EV adoption in the country. With 75+% of these locations equipped with DC fast-charging technology, the network is designed to enhance convenience, reduce charging times, and support the growing demand for electric vehicles in India.

 The Phase-II expansion added 5,500+ new charging points in strategic locations, including highways, urban hubs, and commercial destinations, ensuring Audi e-tron owners enjoy seamless long-distance travel and daily commutes. Audi India has partnered with 16 new EV infrastructure providers to bolster this network, integrating advanced features such as real-time charger availability, route planning, easy start/stop via the ‘myAudi Connect’ app. With the additional network, ‘Charge My Audi’ now ensures coverage across 28 states and union territories, 850+ cities and 4,700+ locations.

In addition to the Phase-II expansion, Audi has extended complimentary charging for all e-tron customers until December 31, 2025. This allows e-tron owners to continue enjoying free charging across Audi’s extensive network of chargers, accessible through our CPO partners via the ‘myAudi Connect’ application.

Mr. Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India said, “As electric vehicle adoption accelerates in India, establishing a robust charging network is crucial, and with over 6,500 charging points and a focus on DC fast chargers, we are enhancing convenience, reducing charging times, and expanding accessibility for our customers. The second phase of our ‘Charge My Audi’ initiative marks a major step forward in enhancing the EV ownership experience. Our partners remain integral to this journey, and we look forward to driving the shift toward electric mobility together.

Audi’s Charge My Audi initiative is supported by a network of ChargePoint Operators, including: Shell India, Adani Total Energies E-Mobility Ltd. (ATEL), Charge Zone, Statiq, Gentari India, Relux Electric, Lion Charge, chargeMOD, Xobolt, Earthtron, Aargo EV Smart, Eco Plug Energy, GreenShift, Kurrent Charge, E-Fill, Electric Fuel, iONCHARGE, SR Charging, Tecell, Yo Charge.

The initiative builds on the success of Phase-I, which introduced route-mapping tools and destination charging hubs. This feature has enabled many hassle-free journeys for Audi customers by allowing pre-journey planning with chargers along the route and providing real-time charger availability status. The ‘Charge My Audi’ platform, powered by Numocity Technology’s eMSP platform, offers live updates and integration with public charging stations for a holistic charging experience.

With the total charging network with ‘Charge My Audi’ standing at over 6,500 charging points across the country, Audi India remains committed to providing an accessible, reliable, and convenient charging infrastructure. Audi’s e-tron range in India remains central to the brand’s vision for sustainable mobility. This charging infrastructure push aligns with Audi India’s broader goals, following a strong 2024 marked by the 100,000-car milestone on Indian roads and the success of its ‘100 Days of Celebration’ campaign.

Newton School Launches India’s First UG Coding Entrance Exam

Hyderabad,11th April 2025: Newton School of Technology has announced India’s first UG entrance exam centred on coding and fundamental programming skills – the Coding Newton Scholastic Aptitude Test (Coding NSAT). Unlike traditional exams that require deep knowledge in Physics, Chemistry and Math, the Coding NSAT evaluates practical coding abilities, offering a unique alternative pathway to admission at the Newton School of Technology. Focusing on solving real-world problems and programming proficiency, the coding entrance ensures assessment based on skills and potential rather than conventional academic scores, offering students an opportunity to further enhance their skills.

Aspiring technologists and students can apply for admissions at Newton School of Technology across campuses in Sonipat, Pune and Bangalore. The first-of-its-kind entrance exam for UG admission offers an innovative pathway for students passionate about hands-on programming, emphasising practical skills over rote memorisation of concepts. Designed for those who have dedicated more time to coding than traditional subjects, it offers an alternative to the conventional JEE pathway, empowering students to showcase their talent and pursue their aspirations in a more inclusive and skill-oriented manner.

The exam syllabus will include topics like Arithmetics, Input & Output, Language Basics, Coding Syntax, Basic Functions, If-Else Statements, Loops, Arrays and Strings. With a total of 26 questions divided into 2 sections, i.e. coding and MCQ, the total weightage of questions is 150 marks, which includes learnability, pseudocoding and a coding section. The MCQ questions total 80 marks, inclusive of negative marking, and the coding format carries a total of 70 marks. Structured to offer an equal opportunity for all career paths in technology and related fields, the coding NSAT aligns with Newton’s larger mission of fostering tech talent.

Speaking on the announcement, Siddharth MaheshwariCo-Founder of Newton School of Technology, said, “At NST, we recognise coding enthusiasts, offering them a structured path to professional education and careers with industry-relevant coding curriculum that aligns with real-world applications. The Coding NSAT is a reflection of our commitment towards an outcome-driven education. By testing skills that matter in the tech industry like building algorithms and debugging code. The Coding NSAT serves as a proof of concept for Newton School’s long-standing belief- education should mirror the challenges of the real world, not outdated academic formulas.”

Coding NSAT is a bold step in Newton School of Technology’s mission to redefine tech education through real-world relevance. Emphasising and rewarding self-taught programmers with opportunities, they have remained at the forefront of a strong coding and technology-focused environment for building the next generation of tech leaders.

At a time when conventional tests still prioritise rote-based math, Coding NSAT opens up a future-ready, inclusive pathway for those who think in code, not equations. Revolutionising higher education in tech, Coding NSAT signals a paradigm shift in the Indian education system around how tech talent is being discovered and nurtured. Interested students can register at Newton School of Technology starting on the 10th of April, 2024.