New Delhi, April 18 This Earth Day, embark on an unforgettable adventure with Emmy^® and BAFTA Award-winning Nat Geo Explorer Bertie Gregory (@BertieGregory) in ‘SECRETS OF THE PENGUINS’! Executive produced by National Geographic Explorer-at-Large and Academy Award^®-winning filmmaker James Cameron and Emmy and BAFTA winners Ruth Roberts and Martin Williams from Talesmith, this latest installment in National Geographic’s Emmy-winning “Secrets of” franchise takes viewers of all ages to the farthest corners of the world to witness penguin behaviours captured on film for the first time – showcasing the cute and fluffy flightless birds as they brave some of the most extreme environments on Earth. Narrated by Blake Lively (‘Another Simple Favor’), the three-part series starts on Tuesday, April 22 at 7 PM on National Geographic, with all episodes streaming on JioHotstar.

In April 2024, Nat Geo unveiled breathtaking emperor penguin footage captured by Bertie at the Ekström Ice Shelf in Antarctica for the series. A television first, the crew recorded an astonishing sight: hundreds of emperor penguin chicks leaping from a 50-foot cliff into the icy ocean below, emerging unscathed. To date, the clip has garnered 74 million views on Nat Geo’s TikTok account – its best-performing video ever – and has received over 165 million views across all of Nat Geo’s social platforms. One year later, ‘SECRETS OF THE PENGUINS’ will showcase the full spectacle of this remarkable behavior, along with new footage that was not initially included in the viral video.

While many documentaries have explored penguins, SECRETS OF THE PENGUINS’ takes it to a whole new level. Talesmith’s team, led by Bertie and over 70 world-class scientists and filmmakers, embarked on a two-year, globe-spanning adventure – from the rocky beaches of Cape Town and the icy shores of South Georgia Island to the tropical Galapagos and Namibia’s desert caves – capturing penguins like never before. Pushing the boundaries of wildlife filmmaking, a three-person crew endured an astonishing 274 days filming on the Ekström Ice Shelf in Antarctica, home to a colony of 20,000 emperor penguins. Facing one of the planet’s harshest environments, they captured never-before-seen moments like a bonded pair of emperors practicing egg transfers with a snowball to hone their skills for the moment they would need to transfer a real egg, tenacious chicks navigating brash ice amid climate change, and young penguins using their beaks to hoist themselves out of a crevasse.

With breathtaking, award-winning cinematography and cutting-edge camera technology, the series captures even more never-before-seen and rare moments in the wild. For the first time, witness healthy “rockaroni” chicks – a rare hybrid of rockhopper and macaroni penguins – offering a fascinating glimpse into potential evolution and adaptation. Other remarkable scenes include a brave rockhopper fending off a southern sea lion, the first-ever footage of a hidden cave colony of African penguins, and clever Galapagos penguins teaming up for a daring heist: stealing fish straight from pelican beaks and skillfully herding sardine bait balls.

The family-friendly series taps into the passion and expertise of world-renowned scientists and conservationists, including National Geographic Explorer and marine biologist Dr. Pablo Borboroglu, conservation biologist Dr. Michelle LaRue, African penguin expert Dr. Andrea Thiebault, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Dr. Gustavo Jiménez Uzcátegui, penguin expert Dr. Jessica Kemper, and marine biologist Dr. Katta Ludynia.

Episodes include the following:

• ‘Heart of the Emperors’

Premieres April 22 at 7 pm

The emperors are the largest and strongest penguins, living in the coldest and most extreme environment on Earth. Embedded with an Antarctic colony, National Geographic Explorer Bertie Gregory encounters social skills never filmed before, discovering bonds forged from birth between family, friends and strangers are the difference between life and death.

• ‘Survival of the Smartest’

Premieres April 29 at 7 pm

Millions of years ago, a group of penguins left the ice, riding powerful currents and arriving in strange new lands. They reshaped traditions for deserts and tropics – and even to live among humans. Tested to the extreme, they became perhaps the smartest of all penguins. National Geographic Explorer Bertie Gregory discovers the penguins’ problem-solving, “talking” and enduring search for new worlds.

• ‘Rebels with a Cause’

Premieres May 6 at 7 pm

It takes a special type of courageous penguin to survive the fierce Southern Ocean, but 40 million crowd its isolated, rocky outposts, and they are some of the most successful penguins on Earth. National Geographic Explorer Bertie Gregory follows the rockhoppers, gentoos, and macaronis to discover a world of risk-takers, rebels, and unconventional parents.

Previous “Secrets of” seasons include ‘SECRETS OF THE OCTOPUS’, narrated by Paul Rudd; ‘SECRETS OF THE ELEPHANTS’, narrated by Natalie Portman; and Emmy-winning ‘SECRETS OF THE WHALES’, narrated by Sigourney Weaver.

SECRETS OF THE PENGUINS is produced by Talesmith for National Geographic. Emmy Award-winners James Cameron and Maria Wilhelm for Lightstorm Earth are executive producers. BAFTA and Emmy Award-winner Bertie Gregory serves as lead storyteller, cinematographer and producer. For Talesmith, Emmy and BAFTA-winning executive producers are Ruth Roberts and Martin Williams. Series producer is Serena Davies. Pam Caragol is executive producer for National Geographic.

Mr. Vijay Thadani, Co-founder & MD, NIIT Limited. said, Anand Rathi Advisors played an important role in structuring a balanced, win-win deal. Their perseverance, domain insight, and strategic inputs were invaluable to the success of this acquisition.”

Mr. Samir Bahl, CEO, Anand Rathi Investment Banking, commented: “This transaction exemplifies the growing convergence of AI, digital learning, and workforce readiness. We are proud to have supported NIIT in this strategic acquisition that deepens its digital skilling portfolio and enhances its relevance in a rapidly evolving talent ecosystem. At Anand Rathi, we remain committed to advising forward-looking businesses in the education and technology sector.”

As spring blooms, so does the celebration of Easter. Join us for a lavish Easter buffet brunch at the Grand Market Pavilion, ITC Royal Bengal, on April 20, 2025.

Delight in a variety of salads and dressings, featuring an Easter special cheese mousse, Motley vegetable terrine, red and green spinach, walnut salad, Canadian potato salad, and Easter Waldorf, complemented by an assortment of international cheeses and homemade dressings like buttermilk Ranch, fruity vinaigrette, Key lime, Balsamico, and Caesar among others, creating an exquisite gourmet experience.

Satisfy your palate with Roast Tom Turkey and its chestnut stuffing, complemented by cranberry sauce, baked Virginia ham in a Midori raisin sauce, meat Fricadelles with sauce Choron, honey-glazed sweet potatoes, and a selection of Easter treats, such as chocolate bunnies, coloured eggs, cinnamon and hazelnut buns, and gourmet pies. Enjoy the symbols of Easter, like the rabbit, which represent abundance, joy, happiness, and growth.

The Nutmeg by Gourmet Couch at ITC Sonar presents a delightful Easter collection, offering a range of exquisite signatures perfect for the festivities. Treat yourself to our Easter box of cupcakes, an assortment of goodies, and a delicious mango and apricot Charlotte to enhance your celebrations!

Join us for a thoughtfully curated spread of delectable food amidst the grandeur of Kolkata’s most iconic luxury destination. With a vibrant Easter ambiance and elegant décor, this promises to be more than just a meal.

Grand Market Pavilion Easter Brunch

Date: April 20, 2025

Price: INR 2300 plus taxes per guest

Time: 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM

Nutmeg by Gourmet Couch  

Hours: 10 AM – 10 PM

Starting Price: INR 1199

Available until: April 22, 2025

Chennai, April 18th, 2025 – GRT Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading boutique hospitality group, celebrated World Heritage Day with a heritage-themed quiz, bringing together history enthusiasts, guests, and team members from across 17 properties in five South Indian states. We had 650 participants taking part in the hybrid event. Hosted by Nawabzada Mohammed Asif Ali, Dewan to the Prince of Arcot, whose deep knowledge of Indian heritage and culture enriched the occasion.

Designed to spotlight India’s diverse and storied legacy, the quiz featured questions on UNESCO World Heritage Sites, iconic monuments, ancient dynasties, regional art forms, and cultural traditions. Participants competed in a fun, hybrid format—both on-ground and online—for attractive prizes, including stay and dining vouchers at GRT Hotels & Resorts.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Vikram Cotah, CEO of GRT Hotels & Resorts, said “World Heritage Day is a celebration of the past that shapes our present. Through this quiz, we aimed to spark curiosity, encourage learning, and honour India’s magnificent heritage. We are grateful to Nawabzada Mohammed Asif Ali for lending his insight and grace to this event.”

The event also served as a cultural platform, fostering community engagement and offering guests a taste of GRT’s signature hospitality with specially curated local delicacies reflecting India’s timeless heritage.

Mumbai, 18th April 2025: Smt. Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), visited the Corporate Office of Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) in New Delhi. She was warmly welcomed by Shri Pradip Kumar Das, CMD, IREDA, and Dr. Bijay Kumar Mohanty, Director (Finance), followed by a comprehensive review meeting and interactive session with senior officials.

CMD presented an impressive overview of IREDA’s progress- highlighting 27% CAGR growth in the loan book, 51% CAGR growth in Profit After Tax, supported by notable rises in Loan sanctions and disbursements over the last five years. The discussion emphasized IREDA’s pivotal role in achieving the national target of 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 and the broader vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’. Shri J.V.N. Subramanyam, Joint Secretary, MNRE, also participated in the discussions, along with other senior officers of the Ministry.

IREDA’s efforts to reduce borrowing costs while improving Net Interest Margin, without adding pressure on renewable energy developers, were also underlined. Notably, IREDA recently became the first NBFC and PSU to publish its audited financial results for FY 2024-25 within just 15 days of the fiscal year ending.

Secretary, MNRE appreciated IREDA’s impressive performance and reaffirmed MNRE’s continued support in accelerating India’s renewable energy growth and decarbonization goals.

India’s ever-evolving smartphone landscape is gearing up for an exciting month ahead. With May 2025 just around the corner, several renowned global and domestic brands are preparing to unveil their latest offerings, devices that promise to redefine user experiences across the board.

Whether you’re someone who craves the latest in mobile technology, a fashion-forward user who treats smartphones as a style statement, or a performance-driven multitasker seeking smooth, powerful functionality, there’s something for everyone in this next wave of launches.

This upcoming lineup isn’t just about specs, it’s about smart design, innovation and brands understanding the pulse of Indian users more than ever before. From reimagined classics to bold new entries, May 2025 is set to deliver a mix of sophistication, performance, and accessibility.

So, if you’ve been thinking about upgrading your device or just love staying ahead of the tech curve, keep your eyes on these five smartphone brands making headlines next month.

1. Samsung

Samsung continues to be a powerhouse in the Indian market, with a product lineup that spans entry-level to ultra-premium. Known for combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design, the brand is expected to roll out a new addition that enhances its already strong presence in the mid and high-end segments.

2. Alcatel

Alcatel is making a bold return to the Indian market, bringing with it a fresh perspective on accessible luxury. With a focus on design, build quality and refined user experience, Alcatel aims to offer smartphones that deliver a premium feel without the premium price tag. Their upcoming launch is set to resonate with users who appreciate style and substance in equal measure.

3. OnePlus

OnePlus has built a loyal following by delivering flagship-level performance with a clean software experience. Its next launch in India is highly anticipated, as the brand looks to continue bridging the gap between high-end specs and everyday usability. Sleek design and speed have always been core to its DNA, and that’s not changing anytime soon.

4. Xiaomi

A constant innovator in the Indian smartphone space, Xiaomi is once again preparing to shake up the market. Known for pushing the boundaries of what’s possible at each price tier, the brand’s next release is expected to blend high-performance internals with modern design, keeping user value at the forefront.

5. Realme

Realme has made a name for itself as a trendsetter, appealing to a younger audience with devices that are fast, stylish, and competitively priced. Its next launch promises to deliver the kind of features and aesthetics that tech-savvy consumers love—backed by strong specs and rapid charging tech that’s now become a Realme signature.

Hyderabad: April 18 2025: Blazing a trail through the global underground scene, Fake Tattoos is a DJ, producer, and performer who’s redefined what it means to be an Indian electronic music act on the international stage. In 2024 alone, he performed in 9 countries, headlining clubs and festivals across Italy, Germany, Japan, Poland, Thailand, and more.

His breakout track ‘Haseen Raatein (Happy Nights)’ became a nightlife anthem, hitting #1 in India and resonating across borders. With 4 tracks simultaneously in the global Top 100, Fake Tattoos holds the distinction of being the only Indian House & Techno artist to reach that milestone.

Having shared stages with legends like Bart Skils, Kollektiv Turmstrasse, Eli & Fur, Stephan Jolk, and Oliver Huntemann, and earning support from names like Tiesto and Shiba San, Fake Tattoos is pushing boundaries with every set.

Currently working on his 4th studio album, this artist is not just riding a wave — he’s building his own movement. Expect raw grooves, hypnotic layers, and pure energy on the dancefloor.

• Date: 19^th April 2025
• Time: 8:00 pm onwards
• Venue: Mindspace SOCIAL, Hyderabad
• Line-up: Fake Tattoos, Paper Planes
• Genre: House & Techno
• Booking link: https://www.skillboxes.com/events/antisocial-hyd-presents-the-indian-house-music-project-with-fake-tattoos

Mumbai, 18 April: KIMS Kingsway Hospitals has successfully performed Central India’s first robotic-assisted Mitral Valve Replacement (MVR) using the advanced da Vinci platform. The procedure was carried out on a 55-year-old female patient diagnosed with mitral valve stenosis, a condition where the mitral valve, located between the heart’s left atrium and left ventricle, narrows, restricting blood flow.

Dr. Saurabh Varshney, Chief Cardiovascular Surgeon at KIMS Kingsway Hospitals, led the team in the procedure. “Mitral valve replacement is a complex procedure which is traditionally performed through open-heart surgery, requiring a midline incision and cutting through the breastbone. With robotic-assisted surgery, we achieved the same outcome with minimal incisions, reducing recovery time and avoiding visible scars,” said Dr. Varshney.

Using the advanced robotic-assisted surgery technology, da Vinci, surgeons performed the procedure through a minimally invasive approach, replacing her diseased mitral valve with a mechanical valve. The robotic approach was chosen to minimize surgical invasiveness and avoid the need for a large midline incision through the breastbone. The mitral valve replacement proceeded smoothly, with no complications.

Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, which necessitates a midline incision and prolonged ICU stays, the robotic-assisted approach led to reduced blood loss, significantly less pain, faster mobilization, and an overall quicker recovery. The patient was able to walk within hours of the procedure and was discharged in just four days.

“Conventional heart surgery often requires prolonged ICU stays and extended rehabilitation. Remarkably, within a week of returning home, our patient resumed her household activities. Within two weeks, she had returned to her normal routine, as if she had never undergone surgery,” Dr. Varshney pointed out. “This case highlights the benefits of robotic-assisted cardiac surgery in improving patient recovery.”

In addition to this mitral valve replacement procedure, Dr. Varshney and his team had also recently perfomed Central India’s first robotic-assisted Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) surgery which was a success.

“Bringing this technology to a non-metro city like Nagpur allows patients to receive specialized treatment locally without traveling to metro cities. The cost of the surgery is also less in Nagpur, compared to bigger cities. As robotic surgery becomes more common and accessible, the costs may further reduce over time, making this advanced technique even more affordable for a broader patient base,” added Dr. Varshney.

“The da Vinci robotic system has enhanced the precision of surgeries. From the moment I began using it, I noticed a remarkable improvement in control and refinement. The risk of arterial damage is significantly reduced, making the procedure more efficient. Given my 20 years of experience in the field, I can confidently say that adopting new technology is essential for improving patient outcomes. By continuously refining our skills and adopting cutting-edge technology, we aim to set new standards in cardiac surgery, making complex procedures more effective,” explained Dr. Varshney.

KIMS Kingsway Hospitals is the first hospital in Central India to introduce a robotic cardiac surgery program. The hospital has been at the forefront of pioneering this technology in the region, receiving an overwhelmingly positive response. Patients from nearby states like Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, as well as metro cities like Mumbai, have sought robotic cardiac procedures at KIMS Kingsway Hospitals ever since its inception.

New Delhi, 18^th April 2025: On the special occasion of the birthday anniversary of Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, the Father of Homoeopathy, Burnett Homeopathy Pvt. Ltd. officially organized the World Homoeopathy Summit 3 during World Homoeopathy Week in 2025 in Köthen, Germany, which is popularly referred to as the global capital of classical homeopathy. Burnett is one of a kind of organization that represents the Indian Homoeopathy industry on the global front. They successfully hosted the 2nd summit in the world’s cosmopolitan city, Dubai.

The prestigious summit had more than 200 eminent Homoeopathy doctors and professionals from across the globe to discuss, share knowledge, and celebrate the legacy of Homoeopathy. Prominent attendees were Dr. Lorie Grossman, President of the National Center for Homoeopathy, USA; Prof. Ronald Morie from the UK; Dr. Nitish Dubey, CMD of Hariom Homeo, India; Prof. Dr. Dorly and Prof. Leoni from Brazil; Dr. Vesna Marinkovic from Serbia; and Dr. Martin from the Netherlands.

The Scientific Society for Homoeopathy, Köthen, renders homage through a special luncheon, offering an occasion for international delegates to warmly and informally network and collaborate. Furthermore, the summit was full of exciting activities, including a unique trip to the birthplace and practice of Dr Hahnemann, an event greatly deepened into the history of classical Homoeopathy for the participants. This was followed by a       knowledge-exchange program and presentation of case studies to exhibit the success ratio. Later, experts had a prolonged research discourse at the European Library of Homoeopathy to reinforce the value of academic collaboration towards new advancements in this field.

Award Ceremony was one of the key attractions of the summit, where 60 doctors were acknowledged for their contribution to homoeopathy. With attendance by Eoin Morgan, former World Cup-winning captain of the England cricket team, and Bastian Bernhagen, Member of Parliament from Köthen, this ceremony was made even more memorable.

Dr. Nitish Dubey, CMD of Burnett Homeopathy Pvt. Ltd., expressed heartfelt thanks to Wiss Homoeopathy, the European Library of Homoeopathy, the House of Hahnemann, and Dr. Stefanie Jahn for their help and support throughout their path to making the summit a historic success. He further mentioned that “Köthen is not just a place; it is a pilgrimage for every Homoeopath. To hold the summit here was thus both an honor and a responsibility to advance Dr. Hahnemann’s legacy with all the passion and purpose he envisaged. This summit has reinstated our common commitment to advancing homoeopathy as a global healing science.”

The enchanting Köthen, a dream city for homoeopath, provided the ideal platform for a landmark occasion. Participants expressed sincere gratitude to Burnett Homeopathy Pvt. Ltd. for organizing such a meaningful and far-reaching global gathering to explore the ever-growing opportunities in homoeopathy.

Bengaluru, April 18 2025 : Gunjur, located in the East of Bengaluru, has witnessed nearly 2.5 times growth in housing prices since 2020 due to strong demand for premium homes, said a report by NSE-listed real estate data analytics firm PropEquity.

Mr-Umesh-Gowda-H.A-Chairman-and-Founder-Sanjeevini-Group

The report also highlighted the substantial growth in housing sales and launches between 2020-25 reinforcing the impact that Gunjur’s proximity to major office hubs including Whitefield, Brookefield and Bellandur has on its housing demand.

According to the report posted by PropEquity, the average housing prices in Gunjur has risen to Rs 11,850 per square feet in 2024 from Rs 4,800 per sq. ft. in 2020, up 146 per cent or nearly 2.5 times. The micromarket has seen 29 per cent average annual growth in prices indicating strong demand from investors and homebuyers.

Bengaluru-based real estate developer Sanjeevini Group Chairman and Founder, Umesh Gowda H.A said Gunjur is a very strategic micro-market that provides a perfect blend of urban convenience and natural tranquillity.

“Gunjur provides easy access to major business corridors like Whitefield, Sarjapur Road, ORR, and Electronic City. It is located at an accessible distance to the education, healthcare and leisure centres. This makes it an ideal destination for homebuyers. To add to this, the 2.5X growth in prices in the last five years and the limitless possibilities that this micromarket present in the future make it worthwhile for investors and homebuyers to stay invested for the long-run.”

Sanjeevini Group is coming up with a residential group housing project in Gunjur and is currently awaiting RERA approval. In the past, the company has delivered high-end residential projects in East Bengaluru.

During this period, 22 projects were launched adding 8558 units between 2020-24, a sharp increase from 2015-19 when only 13 projects were launched supplying 3421 units; an increase of 150 per cent.

Between 2020-24, 7,745 units were absorbed as compared to 3804 units in 2015-19, an increase of 103 per cent.

In the last 5 years, 12 projects comprising 3172 units have been delivered indicating growing habitation in the region.

The large-scale infrastructure development like 150 ft. CDP Road, which seamlessly connects to the Outer Ring Road and Varthur–Sarjapur/Chennai Highway; and Peripheral Ring Road will be game-changers for the real estate market in Gunjur.

“Rapid infrastructure development, upcoming transport links, and increasing demand make Gunjur a hotspot for real estate investment,” Gowda added.