Mumbai Hits Decade-High April Home Sales, Demand Peaks
By: Mr. Dhaval Ajmera, Director, Ajmera Realty & Infra India Ltd on Mumbai Home sales- April 2025
Mumbai has witnessed one of the best-performing months of April in the decade as the city records over 12000 home sales, showcasing a stellar rise for the month both on a y-o-y and a long-term basis. This is a robust testimony to the growing demand for quality homes in the financial capital, driven by the strengthening of purchasing power among the buyers’ fraternity, along with the desire to upgrade to a better lifestyle. With the redevelopment boom at its peak, the preferential categories attracting major sales continue to be luxury and mid-segment housing and micro-markets like Versova, Borivali, and Ghatkopar are witnessing a multi-fold growth.
This demand looks promising to be sustained in the long run, given that the maximum city is undergoing a massive infrastructural facelift that is attracting the attention of buyers and investors from both within and beyond the national geography.
Hindustan Zinc Named India’s Largest Integrated Silver Manufacturer at 2025 Conference
New Delhi, 30th April 2025: Hindustan Zinc Limited, India’s only and amongst the top five silver producers globally, was awarded with the prestigious title of India’s Largest Integrated Silver Manufacturer 2024 at the 3rd edition of the India Silver Conference 2025, held in Udaipur, Rajasthan. This recognition is a testament to Hindustan Zinc’s strategic focus and operational excellence, empowering the company to meet the rising demand for this precious metal driving the clean energy transition. Alongside receiving the honor, the company’s exhibit included London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) certified 99.99% purity marked 30 kg and 1 kg silver bars, alongside a few pieces of galena – the ore from which silver is produced, sourced from the company’s Sindesar Khurd Mine in Rajasthan. Sindesar Khurd Mine has the distinction of being among the top five silver-producing mines globally. The conference commenced with a keynote address by Arun Misra, CEO – Hindustan Zinc, setting the tone for high-caliber deliberations on demand resilience and future-forward strategies.
Silver, a key energy transition metal, is indispensable across a broad spectrum of industries, from solar energy and high-end electronics to Artificial Intelligence, nanotechnology, biotechnology, jewelry and silverware. With superior conductivity and innate antimicrobial attributes, silver is at the heart of next-generation technologies spanning solar photovoltaics, electric mobility, medical diagnostics and smart consumer devices. Hindustan Zinc is primed to meet this escalating global demand. Since the company’s disinvestment by the government in 2002 and subsequent acquisition by Vedanta, the company has achieved a phenomenal 20-fold increase in silver production, recognizing it as one of India’s most successful disinvestment stories. Before Vedanta’s acquisition, Hindustan Zinc was producing only a miniscule amount of silver and India was primarily dependent on imports for silver.
In his keynote address, Arun Misra, CEO – Hindustan Zinc Limited, said “At Hindustan Zinc, we take immense pride in being a global frontrunner in silver production. Our strategic positioning allows us to cater to the rising demand for this versatile metal. With silver prices touching historic heights, the metal has emerged as a pivotal enabler in the clean energy transition. Our silver, refined at our Pantnagar facility in Uttarakhand, is produced using 100% renewable energy, reinforcing our commitment to sustainable and responsible production.”
This year’s conference brought industry leaders and stakeholders to deliberate on the evolving macroeconomic currents shaping the silver ecosystem. Speaking at one of the panel discussions, Vijay Murthy, Chief Marketing & Sales Officer at Hindustan Zinc highlighted silver’s expanding relevance across critical sectors.
Hindustan Zinc’s pavilion, themed ‘At the C’ORE’ of the Clean Energy Transition’, emerged as a centerpiece of the event, attracting widespread acclaim for its innovative presentation. Delegates were particularly drawn to the immersive 3D augmented reality experience booth, which offered a virtual tour of the world’s largest underground zinc mining operations in Bhilwara, Rajasthan and the world’s largest zinc-lead smelting facility in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan.
Hindustan Zinc’s silver offerings, including 30 kg and 1 kg bars as well as silver powder, are internationally certified and adhere to the highest global standards. The company’s Pantnagar Metal Plant is accredited under the Responsible Silver Guidance framework by the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) demonstrating Hindustan Zinc’s commitment to ethical sourcing, advanced production techniques, and a sustainable value chain.
Along with being one of the world leaders in silver production, Hindustan Zinc is also well regarded for its sustainability practices. Recognized as the World’s Most Sustainable Metals and Mining Company by S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2024, Hindustan Zinc has set industry benchmarks for environmental and social stewardship. As silver demand grows in critical industries, Hindustan Zinc is actively leading India’s economic growth and the global energy transition while leading the way with innovation, responsibility and purpose.
Hindustan Zinc Limited, a Vedanta Group company, is the world’s largest integrated zinc producer and amongst the top 5 silver producers globally. The company supplies to more than 40 countries and holds a market share of about 77% of the primary zinc market in India. The company also launched EcoZen, Asia’s first low carbon ‘green’ zinc brand, produced using renewable energy. Hindustan Zinc is also a certified 2.41 times Water-Positive company and is committed to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050 or sooner. As an energy transition metals company, Hindustan Zinc is pivotal in providing critical metals essential for a sustainable future.
Ode Spa Unveils 3rd Flagship at RGIA, Elevates Wellness Travel
Hyderabad, April 30, 2025 – In a landmark moment for wellness travel, Ode Spa, part of the visionary Ridhira Group, proudly announces the launch of its outlet at the departure terminal of Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad. This marks Ode Spa’s third outlet within the airport premises and it’s ninth in Hyderabad city, reinforcing the brand’s presence in one of India’s fastest-growing hubs for travel and wellness. True to its evolving philosophy—Pause. Recharge. Fly.—Ode Spa reimagines the travel experience, offering flyers a purposeful respite to reconnect with themselves before continuing their journeys. With this opening, the brand reinforces its commitment to making wellness an essential and accessible part of the travel experience.
With a strong presence in over 15 cities across India, Ode Spa remains committed to bringing transformative wellness experiences closer to travellers and urban communities alike.
According to GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (GHIAL)’s official Annual Report 2023–24, Hyderabad International Airport handled over 25 million passengers in the last fiscal year, with a significant proportion comprising transit and frequent flyers. Recognising the growing need for intentional wellness amidst today’s fast-paced travel, Ode Spa offers a much-needed sanctuary for travellers to pause, breathe, and recharge—transforming layovers into moments of meaningful rest, rejuvenation, and holistic care.
Thoughtfully curated for today’s relentless pace of life, Ode Spa at Hyderabad International Airport offers travellers a rare chance to pause and reconnect with themselves before their next journey begins. Blending the wisdom of traditional healing practices with the precision of modern innovation, the spa invites guests to experience therapies that are more than indulgence—they are essential acts of self-care. Whether it’s a Swedish or Balinese massage to ease the strain of long hours, a natural facial to refresh travel-weary skin, or an AI-personalised treatment tailored to immediate needs, every offering is designed to restore balance from within. With hydrating body wraps, therapeutic scrubs, aromatherapy, and reflexology, Ode Spa transforms layovers into a retreat—reminding travellers that in a world where constant movement is inevitable, true wellness must be intentional. It’s not just a spa stop—it’s a holiday before the holiday, a moment to recharge body, mind, and spirit, when it’s needed most.
“This isn’t just a spa launch—it’s the start of a new way to travel. We have always believed that wellness should not be a luxury but a lifestyle. With this launch, we are bringing that philosophy to the traveller in transit—delivering balance, comfort, and a sense of calm, even amidst the rush of chaotic terminals and demanding travel schedules.” said Ritesh Mastipuram, Founder and Managing Director, Ridhira Group.
With over 50 lakh clients serviced and a thriving community of 1.2 lakh members across India, Ode Spa has firmly established itself as a trusted name in luxury wellness. Rooted in a holistic philosophy, the brand blends globally celebrated healing techniques with cutting-edge wellness technologies to create transformative experiences that nurture physical vitality, emotional balance, and spiritual harmony. Committed to making wellness an essential part of everyday living, Ode Spa champions accessibility through thoughtfully priced luxury offerings, while maintaining environmental responsibility with non-chemical, natural products. As it continues its rapid expansion, Ode Spa is redefining modern wellness—seamlessly merging ancient traditions with forward-thinking innovation—setting new benchmarks for the industry and ensuring that mindful living is within reach for today’s travellers and urban communities alike. Building on this momentum, Ridhira Group is all set to expand its footprint across major international airports, bringing its vision of accessible luxury wellness to a global audience.
Adrift Kaya at JW Marriott New Delhi Celebrates 3rd Anniversary
Adrift Kaya, one of New Delhi’s finest modern Japanese dining destinations, is set to mark a milestone moment in its culinary journey. This May, as the restaurant celebrates three years of epicurean excellence, it promises an unparalleled gastronomic experience, unlike anything the capital has seen before.
A milestone celebration calls for a landmark event, and this year, Adrift Kaya is bringing together two Michelin-starred icons—Chef David Myers and Chef Masa Ishibashi—for an exclusive four-hands collaboration. For the first time ever, Delhi will witness two culinary greats crafting a menu that fuses innovation with deep-rooted tradition, redefining the city’s fine-dining landscape.
Meet the Icons
Chef David Myers – The Gypsy Chef’s Take on Japanese Cuisine A Michelin-starred chef, global restaurateur, and culinary innovator, David Myers—widely known as the Gypsy Chef—has shaped dining experiences across Los Angeles, Singapore, Tokyo, and Dubai. With a philosophy that celebrates bold flavors and ingredient-driven cuisine, Chef Myers has established Adrift Kaya as a leading name in New Delhi’s culinary scene, introducing the city to a modern, Izakaya-style dining experience. His dedication to craftsmanship and boundary-pushing creativity makes him the perfect collaborator for this momentous occasion.
Chef Masa Ishibashi – The Master of Edomae Sushi Joining him is Chef Masa Ishibashi, a revered master of Edomae-style sushi, a tradition dating back over 200 years to the Edo period. Born into a family of sushi chefs, Chef Ishibashi has spent decades honing his craft, elevating Edomae sushi to an art form that blends precision, history, and innovation.
His illustrious career includes multiple Michelin stars, with accolades spanning Tokyo, Singapore, and Malaysia. As the driving force behind Sushi Masa in Tokyo’s prestigious Ginza district, as well as other celebrated restaurants in Asia, Chef Ishibashi is known for his exceptional precision, dedication to seasonality, and use of the finest Japanese ingredients. His philosophy treats sushi as a performance art—where every movement, every cut, and every plate tells a story of heritage and mastery.
A Feast of Innovation and Tradition
For the first time in New Delhi, these two culinary powerhouses will join forces to curate an eight-course dining experience that seamlessly blends contemporary Japanese innovation with time-honored sushi traditions. Chef Masa will showcase his signature Edomae sushi, meticulously prepared using traditional techniques such as aging, curing, and marination to enhance flavours and textures. Crafted with the finest seasonal ingredients flown in from Japan, this menu will offer guests a rare chance to savor an authentic, world-class sushi experience in the heart of the capital.
Known for their meticulous craftsmanship and respect for traditional techniques, this epicurean collaboration of 2 culinary legends is a tribute to the past, enhanced by modern innovation and a befitting milestone celebration for Adrift Kaya.
Exclusive Collaboration Dinner Details
Dates: 2nd & 3rd May, 2025
Time: 7 PM – Midnight (last seating at 9 PM)
This once-in-a-lifetime dining experience is set to be one of the most sought-after reservations in Delhi’s fine-dining history.
Gold Poised for 5-Year Rally as Global Uncertainty Rises, Says Expert
By – Mr. Sandip Raichura, CEO – Retail Broking and Distribution, Director – PL Broking and Distribution.
“Gold is shining as brightly as ever as uncertainty for the globe rises , dollar possibly will remain weaker yet India finds itself in a sweet spot of global macros. On this auspicious day, one would do well to still continue to buy gold at current rates for a fabulous run ahead for the next 5 years.”
DP World, Delhi Capitals Launch Powerful Cricket Campaign Film
National, 30th April 2025: DP World, a leading global provider of smart logistics solutions, has unveiled an inspiring new campaign film in partnership with Delhi Capitals, celebrating the transformative power of cricket when driven by purpose. The film highlights how cricket can open doors, create opportunities and positively impact communities.
The film brings together an impressive lineup of global cricket stars including KL Rahul, Faf du Plessis, and Mitchell Starc, alongside women’s cricket trailblazers Meg Lanning, Alice Capsey, and Sarah Bryce. It marks the latest milestone in DP World’s partnership with both the Men’s and Women’s Delhi Capitals teams, underscoring a shared commitment to inclusivity and impact through sport.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of local neighbourhoods across India, the film vividly captures DP World’s grassroots commitment to making cricket more accessible. A standout scene features young aspiring players being mentored by life-sized holographic projections of their cricketing idols blending inspiration with innovation to deliver a personal, powerful training experience.
Hemant Kumar Ruia, Executive Vice President, Head of DP World India said, “India is central to DP World’s global operations, both in scale and strategic importance. Cricket holds a special place in the hearts of millions here, and through our Beyond Boundaries Initiative, we are using the power of cricket to connect with communities in India. We are providing access to cricket by providing grassroots clubs with cricket kits, equipment, and facilities through repurposed logistics containers. Our partnership with Delhi Capitals reflects a shared commitment to enabling this access, nurturing local talent, and fostering a spirit of inclusion. This film captures our unifying purpose, showcasing how we are supporting cricketing talent at the grassroots level, while building relationships that matter, both on and off the field.”
As part of its global Beyond Boundaries Initiative, DP World is converting 50 repurposed shipping containers into fully equipped cricket facilities for grassroots clubs worldwide. Each container is stocked with professional-grade kits including bats, helmets, gloves, pads and kit bags. The containers are also multipurpose to suit the local community’s needs, serving as pavilions and dressing rooms – all with the ambition of making the game more accessible.
Since its launch in 2023, the initiative has seen DP World roll out five repurposed containers across key Indian cities including Mumbai, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Delhi, along with the distribution of 1,250 cricket kits to aspiring players in India. In 2024, the Delhi Capitals team supported the unveiling of containers at Delhi’s Aerocity Ground, reinforcing the commitment to bringing the game closer to communities and nurturing the next generation of talent.
TripXL Ready to Transform India’s Travel Sector with its April 2025 Launch
“We believe in the philosophy of ‘going global while acting local.’ Today’s digital landscape is flooded with platforms offering online bookings, but trust remains a key concern for many travelers. At TripXL, our mission is to bridge this gap by providing an authentic, transparent, and value-driven experience, all while ensuring the highest standards of safety,” said Anil Lohia, COO of TripXL.
Mukesh Kumar Rejoins K Raheja Realty as CEO of Infiniti Malls
Mumbai, April 30th, 2025: Infiniti Mall, a flagship property of K Raheja Realty, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Mukesh Kumar as Chief Executive Officer, Infiniti Malls, and Business Head – New Businesses. With nearly three decades of extensive experience in the retail and hospitality industries, Mr. Kumar returns to the company after a brief break, having previously spent almost two decades with K Raheja Realty.
In his new role, Mr. Kumar will lead the operations, leasing and marketing of Infiniti Malls, Andheri and Malad—two of the company’s flagship properties. He will focus on further elevating the retail experience at both malls by enhancing customer satisfaction, optimizing services, and introducing innovative technologies.
Mr. Mukesh Kumar expressed his enthusiasm about rejoining K Raheja Realty: “It was a very easy decision for me to make once I decided to move back to Mumbai. I have been associated with the company for nearly two decades, and I am fortunate to have a supportive promoter with whom I have worked very closely. The comfort of returning to a familiar environment makes the transition seamless.”
Mr. Mukesh Kumar’s vision for Infiniti Mall, Malad is to continue its growth in sales and footfall by further upgrading its offerings, adding new brands, and integrating advanced technology to enhance the customer experience. He aims to reintroduce the Omni-channel strategy to boost retail partner revenue and strengthen marketing, promotions, and loyalty programs.
For Infiniti Mall, Andheri, Mr. Kumar envisions transforming it into a more entertainment and F&B-driven destination. With the addition of new F&B brands and the upcoming launch of Dave & Busters, he plans to increase footfall and revenue while introducing new technologies to improve operational efficiency and customer experience.
Mr. Kumar also highlighted plans to expand the company’s portfolio and develop new business ventures, with announcements to follow. With his extensive experience, he is well-positioned to drive Infiniti Malls into a new era of growth and innovation.
Bollywood Actor Yashpal Sharma Inaugurates PHDCCI’s ‘Expression’ Art Show
Following the astounding success of its debut contemporary Indian art show, PHDCCI organized the 2nd edition of “Expression: A Contemporary Indian Art Show”. The three day event starting from April 30th till May 2nd, 2025 was inaugurated by Shri Yashpal Sharma, a renowned Bollywood actor at PHD House, New Delhi.
Actor Yashpal Sharma in his address congratulated PHDCCI for organizing such a meaningful event to promote artists and their work. He emphasized the importance of working on one’s uniqueness and individual talent. He added, while it is good to be inspired, one must not copy others; only by focusing on personal uniqueness and talent one can truly progress. Everyone has a spark within, and one should never consider oneself inferior.
The Actor further expressed the thought of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” and discussed that the bond of humanity is the greatest of all. He added that while some things may seem insignificant the value lies in time. He cited examples like Charlie Chaplin and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, who turned their weaknesses into strengths by listening to their inner voices something many people tend to ignore.
Dr. Sachidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) congratulated the artists to have brought out their creativity to the world. “Every person is creative in some way, but it is the artists who have the courage to bring their creativity to the outside world”. He also took this opportunity to share his thoughts about the possible threats of AI. Our habits are becoming increasingly AI oriented.
While some paintings take months or even years to create, AI can produce them within minutes. Dr Joshi further emphasized the efforts of artists like Ravi Verma and Nandalal Ghosh, whose work took immense hard work and mental exercise to produce. The real threat he warned is not today but lies ahead, 5 to 20 years from now when everything will move to the cloud it will be difficult to identify original work. This, he said is a serious threat to artists.
He also stressed that it is the responsibility of artists and society to preserve our inherent creativity, talent, intellect, and motivation to create something new. He urged that artistic expression should become the voice and moral conscience of society, and we must all work to make society aware of the future dangers of a digital world.
Anuradha Goel, Chairperson, PHD Family Welfare Foundation, who is at the helm of PHD’s family welfare initiatives, including 25 centers across the country where around 5,000 students are being skilled and also being taught painting and art. She expressed her hope to see those children growing up to become an artist and presenting their works here one day. Ms Goel further added that while AI is useful, one should only use it as much as needed and must not become completely dependent on it.
Ms. Sonali Jain, Co-chair, PHDCCI Education Committee, and Vice Chairperson, Sumermal Jain Educational & Welfare Society (Regd.) expressed that literature, music and art hold great importance in a person’s life. She discussed that art is the only form of expression that promotes dialogue without conflict. The empathy and compassion that art brings cannot be brought by a bureaucrat or a politician. She added that art is the most humane way to build a community where people can relate to their culture and ethos by showcasing their work through this medium.
She further explained how PHDCCI has been working for the progress and development of industry for the past 120 years. She expressed hope that through this initiative, PHDCCI would continue to promote the art industry in its true essence and wished for the event to be a sounding success for the artists.
Dr. Ranjeet Mehta, CEO & Secretary General, PHDCCI exclaimed that PHDCCI is delighted to welcome Mr. Yashpal Sharma one of the finest actors of Hindi cinema. He added that the actor’s journey from stage to screen is inspiring and full of motivation especially for artists coming from tier 3 and 4 cities. He emphasized that the contribution of such talented artists will further promote the art community and boost their confidence.
Further he mentioned that PHDCCI which was established in 1905 had recently celebrated its 120th anniversary. He said that the presence of such a legendary artist at the art show would inspire many budding artists. He expressed hope that stalwarts like him would continue to support and motivate such initiatives by PHDCCI in the future as well.
Ms. Preeti Wadhwa Acclaimed Singer & Director, Virva International Pvt. Ltd., said that art is a language and a bond between human beings, behind every piece of art is an artist who is a storyteller. She applauded the initiative by PHDCCI to provide a platform to such artists and expressed that it would encourage them to continue their remarkable work. Lastly she called upon everyone to celebrate this beautiful expression of art.
As one of India’s oldest and most respected industry bodies, PHDCCI has been a pillar of support for economic growth, industrial development, and policy advocacy for over 120 years. Now, it has extended its reach beyond commerce, lending its voice and support to the immense artistic and creative talent that lies untapped across the country.
A three day event, scheduled from April 30 to May 2, 2025, Expression is a vibrant and thought provoking contemporary Indian art show that celebrates the diverse perspectives and diverse range of paintings of emerging and established Indian artists. It showcases a curated selection of artworks that push boundaries, spark conversations, and inspire new ways of thinking. The exhibition aims to highlight the vibrant and dynamic nature of Indian art, exploring themes that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage, social issues, and personal narratives. And provide them with a platform to reach a wider audience for their artworks thereby empowering them economically.
The second edition saw the participation of over 15 artists from all over the country including notable names like Ms. Kalyani, Ms. Abhipsa Pradhan, Ms. Sunita Lamba, Mr. JP Singh, Mr. Kedaram Viswanathan, Mr. Rangroop Ranjeet Singh, Mr. Ramchandra Pokale, Mr. Ramonkar, Ms. Shivraj Singh. Through painting, sculpture and mixed media, the artists explore themes that resonate with modern India, such as identity, culture, social justice, and the human condition. The show provides a platform for artists to express themselves freely, sharing their unique visions and experiences with a wider audience.