March 26, 2025 – Udemy, a leading online skills marketplace and learning platform, today announced a partnership with the five-time champion, Mumbai Indians (MI). This represents the inaugural collaboration between MI and Udemy, underscoring the organizations’ mutual commitment to continuous skills development and performance excellence.

The Udemy-MI partnership aims to bring a unique convergence of excellence and continuous learning, empowering hundreds of MI employees and more than 50 million fans with cutting-edge skill-building resources for lifelong upskilling. With over 250,000 courses in 75 languages – including Hindi, Telugu, Urdu, and Gujarati – Udemy offers a vast collection of curated learning paths covering the most in-demand professional and technical skills to optimize business outcomes and support career growth.

Genefa Murphy, Chief Marketing Officer at Udemy, said:

“Udemy is looking forward to joining forces with MI, a team defined by resilience, strong performance, and the relentless ‘MI Attitude’ of winning. Cricket in India continues to set the bar high, as seen in the nation’s recent ICC Champions Trophy victory, and staying ahead requires adaptability and upskilling. MI’s philosophy of perseverance and excellence aligns with Udemy’s mission to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive. Through this collaboration, we’re empowering MI’s team and fans with access to in-demand topics like Generative AI, ensuring the team stays at the forefront of innovation and fans across India can better achieve their career goals.”

As a leader in online learning, Udemy has established a robust presence in India with a community of over 16 million learners and hundreds of enterprise customers, 2,600+ marketplace courses in multiple Indian languages, and a network of 9,500+ expert instructors nationwide. In 2024, Udemy established a new research & development center in Chennai to continue bridging the skills gap and investing in the rapidly evolving market. Through this strategic partnership, Udemy will organize a series of targeted marketing activations to strengthen brand presence and expand reach in the region, inspiring a new generation of learners to acquire in-demand skills, pursue their passions, and unlock their full potential.

 A Mumbai Indians spokesperson said:

“Just like on the field, success is rooted in the ability to constantly learn, evolve, and adapt. Whether it’s fine-tuning our strategies or building new skills, MI is always looking for ways to grow and move ahead. Our partnership with Udemy empowers our teams and fans to access learning and skills development resources that drive better outcomes.”

Udemy will offer exclusive promotions and events with MI during the season. This includes  Player Meet-and-Greets, Match Day experiences at live stadiums across India, a behind-the-scenes tour of the team’s training sessions, and an exclusive webinar with MI coaches discussing their approach to skill development. These unique opportunities will provide Udemy customers, learners, instructors, and employees an inside look at the MI team and the world of cricket, allowing them to experience the MI winning culture firsthand.

To learn more about how organizations can partner with Udemy Business to upskill for the future, visit: business.udemy.com.

Mumbai, 26^th March 2025: The best of Bollywood and OTT was recognised at the illustrious News18 Showsha Reel Awards 2025, as the industry’s finest gathered for an evening of celebration in Mumbai. Hosted by actor Arjun Kapoor, the grand event honored the finest talent and compelling storytelling across films and web series. The red carpet set the stage for a grand celebration of stars, filmmakers, and creative forces shaping the entertainment industry.

The star-studded evening brought together the crème de la crème of the entertainment industry, including Janhvi Kapoor, Raveena Tandon, Jaideep Ahlawat, Abhishek Bachchan, Aditi Rao Hydari, Varun Dhawan, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Ramesh Sippy, Salim Khan, Ravi Kishan, Jyothika, Riteish Deshmukh, Yami Gautam, Rajkummar Rao, Pankaj Tripathi, Kabir Khan, Raj & DK, and Sonu Nigam, among many others. Further elevating the energy of the night, Nikhita Gandhi enthralled the audience with a spectacular live performance, setting the stage ablaze with her musical brilliance.

While Rajkummar Rao and Janhvi Kapoor took home the Best Actor and Best Actress in the Popular Choice category, Varun Dhawan and Samantha Ruth Prabhu were crowned as the Best Actor and Best Actress—OTT. Jaideep Ahlawat and Aditi Rao Hydari also received accolades for their stellar performances in the OTT segment, underscoring the industry’s dynamic and ever-expanding creative landscape of mainstream cinema and digital platforms alike. The event also shone a spotlight on promising new talent, as Raghav Juyal and Pratibha Ranta bagged the Rising Star Awards for their performances in Kill and Laapataa Ladies, respectively.  In a testament to his unparalleled versatility, Pankaj Tripathi was bestowed with the coveted Entertainer of the Year award for his versatile performances in Stree 2, Mirzapur Season 3, and Main Atal Hoon.

Sharing his enthusiasm about winning Best Actor (Jury), Abhishek Bachchan expressed, “This is actually my first-ever Best Actor Award. I’d like to thank the esteemed jury – it’s an honour that you find me worthy of this award. But the credit for this performance has to go entirely to Shoojit (Sircar) Da. He’s made such a wonderful film.”

On taking home the OTT Star of the Year (Female) award, Aditi Rao Hydari shared, “This one is very special. Heeramandi is very special. My director Sanjay sir is very special. I love him dearly. I am because of my directors and I hope I will continue to be because of them… Every single AD on set, every single human being on set, every single four-legged puppy on set, everybody was part of that universe, and it really made those years that we spent shooting. I can’t be more grateful.” She emphasised.

The prestigious Best Director award was presented to Kabir Khan for his cinematic masterpiece Chandu Champion, while the much-anticipated Best Film award was bagged by Stree 2.

In recognition of their legendary contributions to Indian cinema Ramesh Sippy and Salim Khan were felicitated with the esteemed Reel Legend Award.

 Other notable winners included visionary creators Raj & DK, celebrated for their groundbreaking storytelling, and Sonu Nigam, who was awarded the Best Playback Singer-Male. The evening was a true reflection of cinematic brilliance, acknowledging the best in films and digital storytelling.

This year, the esteemed jury of News18 Showsha Reel Awards included Sachin Pilgaonkar, Madhur Bhandarkar, Mukesh Chhabra, Tavishi Paitandy, Lilette Dubey, and Shabana Azmi, ensuring a fair and credible selection process that reflects the industry’s highest standards.

Mitul Sangani, Chief Executive Officer – Indian Language, News18 and Local18 (TV & Digital) said, “At News18, we take immense pride in recognizing exceptional talent across diverse formats, and genres. The News18 Showsha Reel Awards 2025 stands as a beacon of creative excellence, bringing together the best of Indian entertainment celebrating both mainstream and regional storytelling. We congratulate all the winners who have captivated audiences with their outstanding performances and storytelling.”

Smriti Mehra, CEO – English and Business News, Network18 added, “The News18 Showsha Reel Awards 2025 is a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact of cinema and OTT on audiences worldwide. As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, we are proud to recognise the artists and creators who challenge conventions and craft unforgettable narratives.”

26th March 2025: Alstone, India’s premium exterior cladding brand, has announced its renewed collaboration with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as the Official Cladding Partner for T20 Season 2025. After a successful association in 2023, Alstone is once again partnering with RCB, reinforcing its commitment to high performance, innovation, and excellence values that resonate deeply with the team’s spirit.

With the tagline “Think Cladding, Think Alstone”, and the campaign “Super Batting, Super Cladding 2.0”, this partnership celebrates the synergy between top-tier cricketing action and architectural innovation. As a pioneer in the façade industry for over two decades, Alstone is known for its premium exterior cladding solutions, including Zinc Composite Panels (ZCP), Aluminium Honeycomb Panels (Alcomb), Fire Rated Composite Panels (FRCP), metal-based HPL and Louvers, Trusted by architects, façade consultants and builders, Alstone continues to redefine modern cladding with sustainability and cutting-edge designs.

Sumit Gupta, Managing Director, Alstone, shared his enthusiasm about the renewed partnership: “We are thrilled to partner with Royal Challengers Bengaluru once again for T20 Season 2025. Our previous collaboration in 2023 brought us remarkable brand mileage, allowing us to connect with a passionate and engaged audience. Just as RCB consistently delivers outstanding performances on the field, Alstone remains committed to offering world-class, innovative façade solutions. This partnership will further strengthen our brand presence and align us with a team that shares our vision for excellence.“

This collaboration will also augment our objective to create awareness amongst young creative fraternity & consumers about the innovative cladding solutions provided by Alstone.

The collaboration will include a dynamic mix of marketing campaigns across digital platforms, outdoor advertising, print, radio, and social media, ensuring extensive brand visibility throughout the T20 season.

Rajesh V Menon, COO of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, welcomed Alstone’s return, stating: “We are delighted to have Alstone back as our Official Cladding Partner for this season. Their innovative approach to exterior cladding solutions aligns perfectly with RCB’s dedication to pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks.” 

26th March 2025: LNJ Bhilwara Group presents Bhilwara Sur Sangam 2025, a grand celebration of India’s rich classical music heritage. The much-awaited annual musical extravaganza returns to Kamani Auditorium, New Delhi, on April 2 and 3, 2025, from 6:30 PM onwards. This year’s event holds special significance as it proudly marks the 12th edition of this iconic festival, promising an unforgettable experience for music lovers.

This two-day classical music festival brings legendary Indian classical artists every year and elevates the spirit of India’s rich heritage and culture.

The event will feature an impressive line-up of renowned artists. On the first day, audiences will be treated to a Sitar recital by Shri Purbayan Chatterjee, followed by a captivating vocal performance by the legendary Pt. Sajan Mishra and Swaransh Mishra. The celebration will continue on day 2, with a mesmerising Sarod performance by Pt. Prattyush Banerjee and a soulful vocal recital by the eminent Pt. Ulhas Kashalkar. Together, these musical maestros will create an unforgettable experience, bringing the rich heritage of Indian classical music to life on stage.

Expressing his thoughts on the occasion, Mr. Ravi Jhunjhunwala, Chairman, LNJ Bhilwara Group, said:
“India boasts a wealth of cultural and musical heritage, which is exceptionally diverse and has evolved over centuries. Through Bhilwara Sur Sangam, the LNJ Bhilwara Group showcases its commitment, year after year, to preserving and promoting Indian classical music. We are proud to once again bring together some of the most illustrious musical maestros under one roof, continuing our tradition of celebrating the timeless beauty of Indian music and ensuring that it resonates across generations.”

India, March 26^th 2025 – As Ireland continues to expand its global partnerships, Hon. Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation, and Science, James Lawless, has successfully concluded a high-impact visit to India, marking a new chapter in the deepening ties between the two nations.

Over the course of his engagements in New Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, Minister Lawless met with government leaders, business executives, and academic institutions to explore synergies in research, education, trade, and innovation. The visit, aligned with Ireland’s St. Patrick’s Day outreach, not only celebrated longstanding connections but also laid the groundwork for new collaborations, including key investment discussions, MoUs between universities, and the expansion of Irish enterprises into India’s dynamic market.

The Minister also participated in high-profile events such as the Raisina Dialogue, contributed to discussions on migration, education, economic growth, and cultural connectivity, underscoring Ireland’s strategic role in fostering global partnerships. His participation as a distinguished speaker backed Ireland’s commitment to collaborative policymaking and international engagement, further highlighting Ireland’s strengths as a global hub for education, technology, and foreign investment.

 A significant outcome of the visit was the strengthening of trade and investment links between Ireland and India. Minister Lawless held strategic discussions with IDA Ireland clients, Enterprise Ireland companies, and key Indian business leaders, reinforcing Ireland’s position as a preferred European gateway for Indian enterprises.

Minister Lawless witnessed MoU singings between the Irish export agency (Enterprise Ireland) and industry partners including Association of Healthcare Providers in India and T-Hub, Hyderabad’s innovation hub. These agreements are aimed at accelerating the adoption of Irish technology across the Healthcare, ICT and green technologies sectors in India.

Education and research formed a cornerstone of Minister Lawless’ visit, with several initiatives aimed at fostering stronger academic partnerships between Ireland and India. Minister Lawless led Vice Chancellors and Education Policy Roundtables in Mumbai and Chennai and held strategic discussions with IIT Delhi and IIT Madras on collaborative research initiatives and student exchange programs.

Minister Lawless also engaged with key Indian policymakers, including the senior government ministers at national as well as state level, to explore bilateral initiatives in higher education and trade. These discussions emphasized Ireland’s commitment to supporting India’s rapidly growing fintech and medtech sectors, presenting new opportunities for Irish businesses and academic institutions.

The visit also saw St. Patrick’s Day receptions in Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai, where Minister Lawless brought together key stakeholders from government, business, and academia to celebrate Ireland’s growing presence in India. These gatherings reinforced the enduring bond between the two nations and Ireland’s strategic focus on fostering global partnerships.

Beyond government and business engagements, Minister Lawless connected with the Irish diaspora, business associations, and social impact organizations, reaffirming Ireland’s dedication to fostering a strong people-to-people connection with India. A key moment of the visit was his engagement with students at the Asha Foundation in Delhi, where he highlighted Ireland’s ongoing commitment to educational empowerment and social impact initiatives in India.

Reflecting on his visit, Minister James Lawless stated, “India is a country of immense talent, innovation, and opportunity, and it has been a privilege to engage with its dynamic leaders across government, education, and business. This visit reaffirms Ireland’s commitment to deepening our collaboration in research, education, trade, and investment, with Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland playing a crucial role in fostering these partnerships, supported by Ireland’s Embassy and Consulates in India.

 “The partnerships forged this week demonstrate our shared commitment to a prosperous and forward-looking relationship. From deepening academic ties and research collaborations to fostering trade and investment, we are building a strong foundation for the future. I am excited to see how we can continue to develop these synergies and creating new opportunities for students, businesses, and entrepreneurs across both nations in the years ahead.”

 With Ireland and India unveiling new measures to expand trade, investment, and educational cooperation—including the establishment of a joint economic commission—Minister Lawless’ visit has set the stage for a new era of strengthened bilateral relations.

March 26, 2025:Taj Khazana, the premier lifestyle boutique at Taj Coromandel, Chennai renowned for showcasing the boundless creativity of Indian artisans, hosted Coffee and Conversations –  an afternoon celebrating art, heritage, and exquisite craftsmanship. This exclusive gathering brought together connoisseurs of fine artistry for an immersive experience of India’s rich artisanal traditions.

The graceful high-tea evening featured a thoughtfully curated selection of treasures including fashion jewelry, shawls, sarees, Tanjore paintings, accessories, art, and home décor. Guests indulged in a spread of delicacies including Avocado & Pink Grapefruit Salsa, Dark Rye Bread; Olive & Cottage Cheese Involtini; Roasted Figs & Hummus, Phyllo Cups of prawn Empanadas; Smoked Chicken, Multigrain Buns; and Pulled Lamb Croquets. The buffet featured an exquisite Cheese Platter, Fresh Fruit Tarts, Assorted Madeleines, Orange & Almond Vernier, and assorted hand-rooted chocolates, alongside an indulgent selection of Tea, Coffee, and Cookies.

This special evening was a celebration of the vast creative talent of Indian artisans and craftsmen. Taj Khazana stores across Taj Hotels serve as sanctuaries of discovery and inspiration and are a tribute to India’s diverse heritage, featuring masterpieces that embody supreme craftsmanship and timeless elegance. The store at Taj Coromandel, Chennai is distinctively traditional, with an effortless blend of vintage and contemporary aesthetics.

26^th March 2025:  Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach recently hosted its first-ever Lil Masterchef event, an exciting and heartwarming initiative that invited children between the ages of 6 to 12  to step into the world of cooking. Young participants had the unique opportunity to don their chef hats, roll up their sleeves, and experience the magic of creating their own culinary delights. From kneading dough to decorating cakes, each activity encouraged kids to express their creativity and gain hands-on experience in the kitchen.

Lil Masterchef was designed to bring families together, transforming a simple culinary experience into a cherished bonding opportunity. Parents and children worked side by side, laughing, experimenting with flavours, and sharing the delight of crafting their own dishes. The event welcomed prominent influencers and their families, adding to the excitement and making it a truly memorable occasion.

The event featured a series of interactive food stations designed to ignite creativity and curiosity among young aspiring chefs. Guests had the opportunity to explore diverse cuisines and culinary techniques, with dedicated stations for Mexican delights, pasta, sushi, dim sum, salads, sandwiches, muffin decorating, cake decorating, cream piping, and doughnut dipping. Each activity was designed to be both educational and entertaining, fostering essential culinary skills while making cooking an enjoyable experience for all.

Kunal Shanker, General Manager,  Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach said, “Lil Masterchef was our love letter to families, a chance for kids to whip up magic, from pasta twirls to frosting swirls, while parents became their biggest fans. It’s messy, it’s loud, it’s delicious, and it’s the kind of day that turns a hotel into a home for adventure.”

The event also provided a platform for children to develop confidence in the kitchen, encouraging them to explore new flavours and techniques in a fun, pressure-free environment. By transforming cooking into a playful yet enriching activity, Lil Masterchef successfully introduced young participants to the wonders of gastronomy while reinforcing the joy of family togetherness.

With an overwhelming response to its debut, Lil Masterchef is poised to become a signature event at Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, reaffirming its commitment to delivering exceptional, family-friendly experiences that go beyond traditional hospitality.