Emami Realty Begins Emami Aamod Construction in New Alipore
Kolkata, 18th February 2025: Emami Realty, the prestigious real estate arm of the renowned Emami Group, performs the Bhoomi Pujan and the inauguration of the Experience Center at Emami Aamod, located on James Long Sarani, New Alipore. The project is expected to generate around ₹850 crore in revenue.
The Bhoomi Pujan ceremony to commemorate the construction at the site was conducted with great reverence and attended by esteemed guests, including Smt. Kakoli Bag- Councillor 119 Ward, Mr. Mohan Goenka, Vice Chairman & Whole-time Director Emami Ltd. Dr. Nitesh Kuma, MD & CEO Emami Realty Limited, Dr. Aditya V Agarwal – Non-Executive Director Emami Ltd. The event marked a significant milestone in the development of Emami Aamod, a project that epitomizes luxury living with its opulent amenities and serene environment.
In conjunction with the Bhoomi Pujan, Emami Realty also unveiled the Experience Center at Emami Aamod. The Experience Center offers prospective residents a glimpse into the future of luxury living, showcasing the exquisite 3 BHK and 4 BHK apartments, state-of-the-art clubhouse, infinity swimming pool, and the unique musical fountain. The Experience Center is designed to provide visitors with an immersive experience, highlighting the project’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Dr. Nitesh Kumar, MD & CEO of Emami Realty Limited, expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “We are thrilled to bring to Kolkata a project that combines luxury with nature. The Bhoomi Pujan and the inauguration of the Experience Center mark the beginning of a new chapter in urban living. Emami Aamod is not just a residential address; it’s a lifestyle.”
Emami Aamod is set to redefine luxury living in Kolkata with its blend of sophistication, grandeur, and tranquillity. The project features a picturesque 1-acre lake with a captivating musical fountain, landscaped gardens, and a range of amenities designed to enhance the quality of life for its residents.
Spread across 4 acres, Emami Aamod features four elegantly designed towers offering spacious air-conditioned 3 BHK and 4 BHK apartments with servant rooms. With flexibility in mind, these apartments allow easy customization by adding internal walls, enabling residents to tailor their homes to their unique needs.
Every room at Emami Aamod features a panoramic balcony with stunning 180-degree views of the serene Aqua Serenity Lake, home to Kolkata’s first rhythmic musical fountain. This tranquil, iconic 1-acre lake with private cabanas offers a rejuvenating ambiance. The infinity edge pool adds grandeur to everyday relaxation, offering breathtaking lake views.
Exclusive rooftop amenities like the Yoga Deck, Stargazing Deck, and Skating Rink allow residents to soak in New Alipore’s skyline. Thematic gardens, including the Fragrance, Sculpture, and Topiary Gardens, provide aesthetic pleasure and serene spaces to unwind. Sports and fitness facilities such as cricket nets, pickleball and basketball courts, and a state-of-the-art gym cater to enthusiasts of all ages.
Entertainment and wellness are always within reach with the amphitheaters, premium club with a bar lounge, and a spa and wellness center. Emami Aamod seamlessly blends sustainability with luxury through eco-friendly features like EV charging points and VRV air conditioning systems. A 10-tier security system ensures a safe, tranquil living environment, while Vastu-compliant apartments promote harmonious energy flow.
For those seeking a refined lifestyle defined by elegance, comfort, and sophistication, Emami Aamod in New Alipore offers a rare opportunity to live in one of the city’s most promising upcoming luxury projects.
HT Labs bags 7 wins at afaqs Digies Awards 2025
Mumbai, February 18, 2025: HT Labs is proud to secure 7 wins across key categories at the recent afaqs! Digies 2025 awards. Recognised for its innovation, creativity, and customer engagement, HT Labs’ flagship platforms, OTTplay Premium, India’s leading
content discovery and streaming platform, and Slurrp, India’s ultimate food discovery platform, continue to set new industry benchmarks and these awards recognise their passion, creativity, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of digital engagement.
OTTplay Premium’s Award-Winning Innovations:
- Bronze – Best Use of Instagram (OTTplay Premium): OTTplay Premium captivated audiences with curated content, exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, and tailored streaming recommendations, elevating user engagement on Instagram.
- Bronze – Best Use of Video in PR (OTTplay Premium): Recognised for its powerful video storytelling, OTTplay Premium effectively leveraged behind-the-scenes content, influencer collaborations, and creative video ads, strengthening its brand presence.
- Bronze – Best Innovation in Digital (OTTplay Premium): OTTplay Premium was honoured for redefining content discovery, using data-driven insights and AI-powered recommendations to enhance the OTT experience.
- Bronze – Best Use of Social Media Marketing (OTTplay): Celebrated for its strategic social media campaigns, OTTplay engaged users with creative storytelling, audience segmentation, and real-time conversations, fostering a dynamic community.
Slurrp’s Digital Excellence Recognised:
- Gold – Best Microsite (Slurrp – C3PO): Slurrp was applauded for its seamless user experience and personalised culinary recommendations, making it a go-to destination for food lovers.
- Gold – Best Use of Instagram (Slurrp): By harnessing the power of visual storytelling, live interactions, and community-driven content, Slurrp created an immersive Instagram experience, featuring stunning food photography, interactive tutorials, and
user-generated content. - Bronze – Best Consumer Engagement on Mobile (Slurrp – C3PO): Slurrp’s cutting-edge mobile engagement strategies, including personalised notifications, gamification, and intuitive features, ensured a frictionless user journey on the go.
“We are thrilled to see OTTplay and Slurrp recognised for its digital excellence and innovation. These awards validate our dedication to creating a personalised, engaging content discovery experience. From social media to video storytelling, we’re committed
to redefining how audiences interact with content. We remain dedicated to pushing creative boundaries and enhancing user experience across our products,” said
Avinash Mudaliar, Co-Founder & CEO, HT Labs.
As HT Labs continues to drive innovation across its platforms, these accolades reaffirm its position as a leader in digital engagement, content discovery, and customer experience.
Staze launches ‘Can’t Staze Calm’ campaign to celebrate bold, fun, and fearless beauty
National, 18 February 2024: Staze Beauty, the dynamic color cosmetics brand from the house of Honasa, has unveiled its latest campaign, ‘Can’t Staze Calm.’ Through a series of three quirky brand films, the campaign celebrates the bold, unapologetic spirit of Staze, positioning its high-performance products as the must-haves for every modern beauty enthusiast – all with a playful and unconventional twist.
Conceptualized by Double Barrel Communications, these films break away from the traditional glamorization of makeup, instead making beauty fun, effortless, and unapologetically real. The first film turns a dramatic poolside rescue into a comedic moment when a confident girl pushes through the crowd – not to perform CPR, but to save the day with Staze Tubing Mascara, proving it’s mess-free, smudge-proof, and long-lasting. The second film adds a spooky twist as a girl fearlessly offers a Staze 3-in-1 Lipstick to a ghost, proving great makeup lasts even in the afterlife. The third film builds suspense as a hooded figure stalks a young man, only to hilariously reveal she just wanted to show off the Staze 2-in-1 Gloss Lock.
Speaking about the campaign, Meetu Mulchandani, Head of Brand Factory, Honasa Consumer Limited said, “In just one year, Staze has seen tremendous growth, winning the hearts of consumers who love our bold and high-performance beauty solutions. With the ‘Can’t Staze Calm’ campaign, we are spotlighting what really sets our products apart – unmatched quality and long-lasting power – by placing them in different fun and unexpected situations. We have designed them to resonate with today’s young beauty enthusiasts, who seek products that are both effective and playful. These films bring out the unique edge of Staze in a way that is as entertaining as it is impactful – because great beauty should never be boring!”
Neelesh Phadnis, Founder & MD, Double Barrel Communications Pvt Ltd said, When Honasa Consumer Products approached us with a bold and unconventional challenge to create shock value through films for their cosmetic brand, we knew we were in for something exciting. At Double Barrel Communications, we dove headfirst into this brief, crafting three wild and unexpected stories to bring Staze Cosmetics’ star products to life: the 3-in-1 Lipstick, Tubing Mascara, and Gloss Lock. This project was more than just another campaign; it was a thrilling creative ride. We pushed boundaries, had a blast along the way, and truly enjoyed collaborating with the team to make something unforgettable.
Goa Encourages NAREDCO Maharashtra Developers to Tap into Expanding Real Estate Market
Panjim (Goa) / Mumbai, February 18, 2025: The Goa Rehabilitation Board and Goa Housing Board have called the Real Estate Developers’ Body NAREDCO Maharashtra to explore investment opportunities in the development in the residential, commercial, mixed–used, redevelopment and business parks segments of the State.
The senior representatives of Goa Rehabilitation Board and Goa Housing Board presented the landscape of ‘Unlocking Real Estate Opportunities in Goa’ to the developer members of NAREDCO Maharashtra, which organized its Annual Members Meet 2025 at Panjim in Goa to observe a successful milestone of completion of ten years of the trade body’s Maharashtra Chapter.
“Goa is not just a tourism destination now, but a fast-growing State for scaling businesses including the real estate offering an exponential potential to the developers who are looking for setting up of new residential and commercial projects along the coastline or in the States’ hinterland and also for the global investors who are willing to invest in second or leisure homes, luxury villas, rental homes or hospitality ventures”, said Mr Aleixo Da Costa, Secretary, Goa Rehabilitation Board while talking about the ‘Opportunities in Goa’.
Announcing the mega plans to release the unused land parcels for real estate development in the State, Mr Da Costa said, “The public sector is looking at redevelopment of its used land parcels combined with monetization of its unused land parcels through the public–private partnerships.” He mentioned that the places like Vasco, Sada Vasco, Baina, Zuari Nagar, Colvale have major unused land parcels making the scope for huge investments. “We are planning to take all these land parcels together, release the unused land in Sada Vasco for rehabilitation purposes first and then monetize the rest of the land parcels in a PPP model where private developers can participate. The tenders will be issued very soon for monetization of the land,” Da Costa informed.
The land parcels are mostly in Vasco City and within a radius of 1 to 2 kms from Airport, Seaport and Railway making these land parcels huge potential for investments. The land parcels mentioned are: Sada Vasco (24,580 sq mtrs, Used: 10,000 sq mtrs, Unused: 14,000 sq mtrs), Baina (4600 sq mtrs), Adarsh Nagar Chicalim (Vacant Land: 23,533 sq mtrs), Colvale (1000 sq mtrs) and Zuari Nagar (1800 sq mtrs).
Mr Sadashiv Gaonkar, Housing Engineer, Goa Housing Board, while talking about ‘Unlocking Real Estate Opportunities in Goa’ invited the leading developers and investors to participate in the strategic development of prime land parcels in the state. He said, “Goa’s real estate is experiencing an unprecedented growth driven by increasing demand by professionals, remote workers and institutional investors and the State is ready for investment, as there is a need to meet the rising demand for diverse accommodation options, residential development and mixed–use projects.”
According to the presentation by Mr. Gaonkar from Goa Housing Board, Goa’s real estate market offers excellent returns, especially in North Goa. Property prices in Goa are climbing at 15% to 30% each year, making it a high growing market. On an average, the properties in North Goa have appreciated by ~83% over the last 5 years, with Candolim (168.5%), Siolim (149.2%) and Calangute (83%) experiencing significant price appreciation.
Investors are eyeing Goa’s income generating properties, including commercial spaces and villas. Goa’s booming tourism guarantees strong rental incomes, with a return-on-investment (ROI) ranging from 4% to 10% each year. North Goa areas bring-in annual rental payouts of 8-9%, while South Goa offers 6-8% returns.
~35% of holiday home buyers prefer Goa as a second home destination, highlighting its appeal among India’s population. Real estate inquiries in Goa increased by 90% in the last five years, showing strong market demand. Rising Airbnb demand in Goa is driving residential property investments and higher prices. North Goa has ~14000 rental properties listed on Airbnb, with peak season occupancy rates reaching 80-90%, highlighting the strong demand for short-term rentals.
Goa is undergoing significant infrastructure expansion, making it a highly attractive real estate destination. The Goa International Airport, Dabolim handled ~35 lakh passengers while the new Manohar International Airport handled ~24 lakh passengers in the year 2024. The Mumbai-Goa Expressway and the Zuari and Mandovi bridge will significantly reduce travel time and open remote areas for development, providing a major advantage for the region.
Calling the Annual Members Meet 2025 of NAREDCO Maharashtra in Goa to be an opportunity to understand the State’s real estate landscape better and the Chief Minister’s approach towards the national real estate industry collaborative, Mr. Prashant Sharma – President, NAREDCO Maharashtra said, “NAREDCO Maharashtra is privileged to explore opportunities for real estate development in Goa to unleash the State’s potential. Goa is not just an international tourism destination now, but it is transforming into a real estate development hub attracting global investors moving its property markets northwards. Goa’s initiative to invite the developers to tap the real estate opportunities in the State is a welcome step.”
Mr Rajan Bandelkar, Vice Chairman, NAREDCO said, “With the Central Government’s impetus on infrastructure growth, even smaller states are transforming significantly with better connectivity and accessibility. Goa is the perfect example of how a state can bolster other businesses including real estate by keeping tourism at the centre. NAREDCO Maharashtra will cement its collaboration with Goa to take the State’s real estate sector on a fast-track mode.”
Mr Niranjan Hiranandani, Chairman Emeritus, NAREDCO Maharashtra said, “Completing a decade-long journey in Maharashtra, it is now time for NAREDCO Maharashtra to support other cities, regions and the States in growing the real estate sector. Being a neighbor, Maharashtra can always join hands with Goa in exploring common opportunities for the real estate industry’s growth banking on its sound infrastructure, international connectivity and new development regions opened for the investors. Goa is soon set to top the charts of the best preferred market for second and leisure homes, luxury villas, vacation homes and hospitality businesses for the global investors.”
Mr Hari Babu, President, NAREDCO said, “Goa has been witnessing real estate investments by affluent Indian and overseas buyers in recent times owing to their inclination for acquiring income-generating commercial assets or second homes alongside their primary city homes.”
When India’s mainstay property markets are expanding beyond Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru, etc., the states like Goa are gaining prominence. The real estate investors are bullish on Goa’s potential to offer attractive property destinations along its coastline and even in the hinterlands owing to its charm as an international tourism centre. Offering sound returns on investments by way of capital appreciation and rental yields, Goa has been witnessing real estate investments by affluent Indian and overseas buyers in recent times owing to their inclination for acquiring income-generating commercial assets or second homes alongside their primary city homes.
According to a study conducted by NAREDCO Maharashtra, Goa is gaining prominence in the NRI community as a preferred choice for investing in second homes back home owing to favourable factors such as the State’s dynamic culture, climate, beaches and ‘ease-of-life’ quotient. Added Mr Sharma, “NRIs are driving demand for luxury villas, contemporary condominiums, which is compelling the developers to develop upscale properties tailored to these preferences of NRIs. Vagator, Morjim, Mandrem, a micro-market of Dona Paula are some of the significant potential property destinations in the State. The homebuyers are searching for tranquil areas with a different kind of a lifestyle.”
Kaushaljis vs Kaushal Trailer Unveils Hilarious Generational Face-Off
Mumbai, 18th February 2025: What happens when the generation gap takes an unexpected and hilarious turn? The much-anticipated trailer of Kaushalji vs Kaushal is here, offering a hilarious yet thought-provoking take on this, the family entertainer is all set to tickle your funny bone while delivering a powerful message about urbanization, modernity, and the ever-changing dynamics of relationships. Directed by Seemaa Desai and produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Umesh Shukhla, Ashish Wagh and Parag Desai under the production house – Jio Studios, Merry Go Round Studios and Mumbai Talkeez, Kaushaljis vs Kaushal follows the journey of 27-year-old Yug Kaushal, who moves to Delhi, leaving behind his small-town roots in Kannauj.
Having embraced a fast-paced urban lifestyle, Yug often criticizes his parents for their so-called outdated ways. But when his words hit harder than he intended prompting his parents to adopt a “modern” mindset and consider mutual separation the situation spirals into chaos. What follows is a rollercoaster of emotions as Yug, shaken by the prospect of his family falling apart, embarks on a humorous journey of self-discovery. Through love, laughter, and a deep dive into his own roots, he realizes the beauty of tradition and the importance of family values.
The newly released trailer gives audiences a sneak peek into the film’s heartwarming narrative, blending comedy with drama in a way that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Expressing her excitement, director Seemaa Desai says, “Kaushaljis vs Kaushal is a heartfelt exploration of the generational gap between Gen X and Millennials. At its core, the film is a story about love, complicated ,yet beautiful. It’s about family, with all its imperfections and second chances. We often see love stories about young couples, but what about those who have been together for decades? This film takes a lighthearted yet poignant look at marriage and asks: what if love doesn’t have to fade, even after years of conflict? I trust that audiences will connect with the endearing characters, laugh, cry, and see a bit of their own families reflected on screen. It’s a reflective film made from the heart for the hearts”.
Ashutosh Rana (Mr. Kaushal) shares: “This film is a delightful take on relationships, love, and the modern complexities of marriage. Playing Mr. Kaushal was an absolute joy. He is a rare combination of an accountant who loves qawwali. It’s a character full of quirks, emotions, and humor, and I can’t wait for audiences to witness this unique family drama. What makes it even more special is that it’s coming to JioHotstar, bringing this laughter-filled rollercoaster straight to your screens. Get ready for a heartwarming, entertaining, and utterly relatable ride!”
Sheeba Chaddha (Mrs. Kaushal) reflects, “Marriage is not just about love; it’s about understanding, compromise, and sometimes, even absurd battles! Mrs. Kaushal is a character that many will relate to—the kind of woman who has spent years balancing responsibilities, only to realize she has forgotten herself in the process. This film takes a humorous yet heartfelt look at marriage, relationships, and the importance of rediscovering love even when it seems lost. I had the best time bringing her to life, and I hope the audience laughs, cries, and sees a bit of themselves in her journey.”
Pavail Gulati (Yug Kaushal) describes his role, “Yug is stuck in the ultimate dilemma who is trying to fix his parents’ broken marriage while struggling to hold on to his own love story. He is that guy who is walking the thin rope trying to fix things , but life, of course, has other plans! This film beautifully captures how families, no matter how chaotic, always find a way back to each other. It’s emotional, funny, and deeply relatable. I thank Umesh sir for trusting me with Yug’s character. When I heard the story, from Seemaa maam it resonated with me so much that I knew I had to be a part of it. I’m grateful to her for this opportunity . I am sure audiences, especially the younger generation will see their own struggles reflected in Yug’s story.
Isha Talwar (Kiara) said, “Kiara is a woman who knows exactly what she wants—a loving, harmonious family. But what happens when love brings her into the middle of complete chaos instead? That’s the heart of Kaushalji’s vs Kaushalji! This film isn’t just about romance; it’s about understanding that no family is perfect, yet love always finds a way. I loved playing Kiara because she brings a fresh perspective on relationships, and I believe her journey will resonate with many people.”
Brijendra Kala on his character Aseemji: “I view Aseemji as that friend and extended family member we all need someone who stands by us through thick and thin. Much like his friend Sahil, he loves qawwali & they sing qawwali together. The scenes in this film are a riot! There’s comedy, drama, and many relatable moments that will make you laugh out loud. The film’s blend of humor and genuine emotion is truly special. Kaushaljis vs Kaushal isn’t just another family drama it’s a fresh, entertaining take on marriage and relationships that will make you rethink love, even in the face of conflict. Being a part of this madness was an absolute joy!”
Grusha Kapoor (Best Friend & Lawyer) adds: “As the lawyer friend in this family feud, my character is very progressive. Sheela aunty brings her signature one-liners to every scene. Along with wisdom, & laughter, The courtroom isn’t just a place for legal battles it’s where the heart of the story unfolds in the most hilarious and emotional ways. This film reminds us that even in the messiest relationships, there’s always hope. It’s a must-watch for every family that has ever fought over trivial matters yet never stopped loving one another.”
Vegas Mall Dwarka Concludes a Spectacular Week-Long Valentine’s Celebration
Delhi: February 18, 2025: Vegas Mall, Dwarka, successfully wrapped up its Valentine’s Week Celebration- Love under the stars, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories of love, joy, and entertainment. The week-long festivities, held from February 8th to February 14th, witnessed an overwhelming response, attracting thousands of visitors who immersed themselves in soulful music, dance, and engaging activities.
Throughout the week, the mall was transformed into a romantic haven, with stunning décor, that provided the perfect backdrop for couples and families to capture special moments. Visitors were treated to a variety of experiences, from live musical performances and dance nights to a nostalgic Open-Air Movie Screening on Valentine’s Day. The celebratory atmosphere, coupled with exclusive shopping offers and dining experiences, made Vegas Mall the ultimate Valentine’s destination in Dwarka.
Speaking about the success of the event, Ravinder Choudhary, Vice President, Vegas Mall, said, “We are delighted by the incredible response to our Valentine’s Week Celebration. It was heartwarming to see visitors of all ages come together to celebrate love in its many forms. Our aim was to create a vibrant and engaging atmosphere, and we are glad that Vegas Mall was the go-to destination for Valentine’s celebrations this year.”
The event not only enhanced the shopping experience but also reinforced Vegas Mall’s position as a premier lifestyle and entertainment hub in Dwarka. With such an overwhelming turnout and enthusiastic participation, Vegas Mall looks forward to curating more exciting events for its visitors in the future.
Ujjivan Bank Teams Up with Kolkata Traffic Police for Road Safety Week
Kolkata, Monday, 18 February 2025: Ujjivan Small Finance Bank, in collaboration with South East Traffic Guard, Kolkata traffic police is observing Road Safety Week with a focus on promoting the Safe Drive, Save Life initiative. As part of this campaign, the bank is installing 6 directional boards and 6 signages at key strategic locations across South Kolkata to enhance road safety awareness.
Additionally, a Road Show featuring placard displays with social messages on safe driving will be organized to engage citizens and spread awareness about responsible road behavior.
This initiative reinforces Ujjivan SFB’s commitment to community well-being and public safety while supporting the city’s ongoing road safety efforts.
Oraculum 2025 at FORE School Shaping India’s Future
New Delhi, 18th February, 2025 – FORE School of Management successfully hosted Oraculum 2025, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and aspiring professionals for two days of thought-provoking discussions. Centered around the theme “Viksit Bharat: Catalyzing Innovation, Sustainability, and Inclusive Growth for a Global Future,” the event provided a platform to explore India’s evolving role as a global leader in technology, business, and sustainable development.
The event commenced with an inspiring inaugural session, where Dr. Subir Verma, Director of FORE School of Management, emphasized the increasing significance of digital innovation in shaping businesses and economies. Using Elon Musk as an example, he highlighted the need for digital managers who can adapt to rapid technological advancements. Shri P. Dwarkanath, Former Chairman of GSK Consumer Healthcare, introduced the KASH framework—Knowledge, Attitude, Skills, and Habits—as key attributes for success, encouraging students to develop a forward-thinking mindset and reminding them that today’s job seekers could be tomorrow’s job creators.
Adding to the conversation, Prashant Srivastava, Vice President-HR at Greenlam Industries, shared insights on Vision 2047, India’s roadmap to becoming a global leader, and explored the role of AI in sustainable development. Meanwhile, Pushkar Aditya, Senior Vice President of Technology at Clovia, delivered a keynote address on building businesses that go beyond profitability, integrating innovation, sustainability, and social impact into their core.
Reflecting on the event, Dr. Subir Verma remarked, “Oraculum 2025 was a testament to FORE School of Management’s commitment to fostering innovation and leadership. Through insightful discussions and real-world perspectives, we aim to equip our students with the skills and mindset required to navigate the evolving global landscape. The knowledge shared over these two days will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of professionals to drive meaningful change in their respective fields.”
Over the course of two days, panel discussions and workshops explored India’s economic and technological transformation. One of the key sessions, The Role of Consultants in India’s Innovation Ecosystem, featured Amit Bagadia (PwC India), Rishi Kapoor (Material+), and Rohit Khatnawalia (Genpact). The panel shed light on how consultants help startups scale, manage risks, and leverage market opportunities, providing students with valuable insights into the skills required to thrive in consulting careers.
Envision 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 brought together leaders from top organizations to explore key trends shaping India’s business landscape. Envision 2.0 featured experts from Xebia, Hitachi, and Lloyds Technology Centre, discussing 5G adoption, AI-driven hiring, and digital transformation. Envision 3.0 saw leaders from Dabur, ST Telemedia Global Data Centre, HCL Tech, and GEP delve into immersive marketing and the future of storytelling. “Real Talk – Trailblazers’ Tales” provided career insights from professionals at EY Global Delivery Services, InterGlobe Enterprises, PayU, Smart World Developers, and Sumitomo Corporation. Hitaishi Gupta, Senior Research Manager at Boston Consulting Group discussed e-commerce’s future in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, while Pranjal Parihar, Deputy Vice President of Kotak Private Banking, led a workshop on leadership and wealth management. Finally, Envision 4.0 examined the evolving workplace, with discussions on hybrid work models, HR digitization, and the feasibility of a four-day workweek, featuring industry leaders highlighting efficiency, flexibility, and outcome-driven performance.
The event concluded on a high note with Workshop: The Elevator Edge, where students worked in teams to develop innovative business solutions under the mentorship of industry professionals. Their presentations focused on strategic business models, SWOT analysis, and go-to-market strategies, receiving constructive feedback on feasibility, execution, and the delicate balance between profitability and social responsibility for Coca-Cola.
More than just a conclave, Oraculum 2025 served as an opportunity for students to interact with industry leaders, gain exposure to emerging business trends, and refine the skills necessary to thrive in the modern workforce. With a strong focus on Viksit Bharat 2047, the event reaffirmed FORE School of Management’s commitment to developing future business leaders who are both globally competitive and socially responsible.
Choice Broking Acquires Arete Capital (RS. 5,151 Crore AUM)
Mumbai, 18th February 2025 – Choice Equity Broking Private Limited (Choice Broking), a leading full-service brokerage firm and a subsidiary of Choice International Limited (BSE: 531358, NSE: CHOICEIN), today announced the acquisition of Arete Capital Services Private Limited (Arete), a prominent wealth management firm with an Assets Under Management (AUM) of ₹5,151 crores. This strategic acquisition strengthens Choice Broking’s position in the wealth management and investment advisory space, enhancing its ability to serve High Net Worth Individuals (HNIs) and institutional clients with a more comprehensive suite of financial solutions.
With this acquisition, Choice Broking’s total wealth management AUM will grow from ₹1,090 crores to ₹6,241 crores, representing a 5.73x increase—nearly a sixfold expansion in its total AUM. This marks a major step in Choice Broking’s expansion strategy, enhancing its ability to provide a wider range of investment solutions and advisory services to an evolving client base.
Commenting on the acquisition, Mr. Arun Poddar, CEO & Executive Director, Choice International Limited, said: “The acquisition of Arete Capital Services is a key milestone in our journey to become a leading player in the wealth management space. With Arete’s strong reputation and expertise, we are confident in our ability to deliver superior investment solutions and personalized financial planning for HNIs and institutional clients. This move emphasizes our vision of offering technology-driven, research-backed financial solutions that empower investors to achieve long-term wealth creation.”
Kamal Somani, Director, Arete Capital Services, added:
“Arete Capital Services has always been committed to providing customized investment solutions that align with the unique financial goals of our clients. Joining forces with Choice Broking presents an exciting opportunity to enhance our offerings, leverage cutting-edge technology, and extend our reach to a broader investor base. We look forward to this new chapter that will unlock greater value for our clients and stakeholders.”
The integration of Arete Capital Services into Choice Broking’s ecosystem is expected to strengthen its wealth management portfolio, deepen client engagement, and scale its market presence. The combined expertise of both firms will enable the delivery of high-quality investment solutions, reinforcing Choice Broking’s commitment to innovation, excellence, and investor success.
Choice Equity Broking Private Limited
Choice Equity Broking Private Limited is a leading financial services firm providing equity, commodity, and currency trading. As a subsidiary of Choice International Limited, the company is committed to leveraging technology-driven platforms and deep research insights to offer best-in-class investment solutions across retail and institutional segments.
Arete Capital Services
Arete Capital Services Private Limited is a well-established wealth management firm specializing in the distribution of investment products and advisory services. With an AUM of ₹5,151 crores, Arete serves a strong clientele of HNIs and institutional investors, offering tailored financial solutions focused on long-term wealth creation and investment growth.
Innovative Agritech Startup Ideas: Finding Your Next Big Opportunity
India’s agritech landscape is witnessing a transformative shift, thanks to innovative startups that are redefining traditional farming practices. These companies are leveraging cutting-edge technologies to empower farmers, enhance productivity, and promote sustainable agriculture. Here are some of the top startups leading this revolution:
1. BioPrime AgriSolutions
Founded in 2016, Pune-based BioPrime AgriSolutions is at the forefront of agricultural biotechnology. The company has developed proprietary platforms like SNIPR (Smart Nanomolecules Induced Physiological Response) and Bionexus to create advanced agri-biological products. These innovations help crops withstand climate-induced stresses, reduce dependency on synthetic fertilizers, and improve overall yield. BioPrime’s commitment to farmer empowerment is evident through initiatives like the “King Farmers Cohort” program, which offers crop-specific training and mentorship to enhance sustainable farming practices. For more information.2. Kheyti
Established in 2015, Kheyti addresses challenges faced by smallholder farmers through its “Greenhouse-in-a-Box” solution. This affordable, modular greenhouse is designed to protect crops from environmental uncertainties, reduce water usage, and increase yields by up to seven times. Kheyti’s holistic approach includes end-to-end support with training and market linkages, ensuring farmers can maximize the benefits of their investment. The startup’s impactful work has been recognized globally, earning accolades like the Earthshot Prize in 2022.
3. Plantix
Originally developed to combat pesticide overuse, Plantix has evolved into a comprehensive digital platform for farmers. The app utilizes artificial intelligence to diagnose crop diseases through smartphone images, providing instant recommendations for treatment. While its mission has shifted over time, Plantix remains a valuable tool for farmers seeking to identify and manage crop health issues efficiently.
4. CropIn Technology
CropIn offers a suite of digital solutions aimed at making farming data-driven. Their platforms enable real-time monitoring of crop health, weather forecasting, and supply chain traceability. By integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning, CropIn assists farmers in making informed decisions, thereby enhancing productivity and profitability.
5. Ninjacart
Ninjacart is revolutionizing the agricultural supply chain by connecting farmers directly with retailers and businesses. Through its technology-driven platform, the startup streamlines the distribution process, reducing wastage and ensuring farmers receive fair prices for their produce. This direct linkage eliminates intermediaries, benefiting both producers and consumers.