Gurugram, 04 February 2025 – Everyone deserves to get back home safely. Yet, India’s roads witness over 1,50,000 fatalities annually, making road safety an urgent national priority. CARS24, India’s leading autotech company, has partnered with the Indian Road Safety Campaign (IRSC) to take meaningful action—improving infrastructure, integrating technology, and driving policy-level change to reduce road accidents and save lives.

This initiative aligns with CARS24’s vision of ‘Better Drives, Better Lives’, reinforcing that safety isn’t just a responsibility, it’s a movement that requires awareness, action, and collaboration.

Pothole Reporting & Resolution
One of the latest initiatives under this collaboration is pothole reporting through the CARS24 app. Users can now report potholes in real time, helping create a centralized database of road hazards. Upon verification, IRSC will take action to fix selected potholes, while the remaining data will be shared with local authorities to push for broader road repairs. Additionally, all reported potholes will be geotagged, allowing other motorists to navigate safely and avoid high-risk areas. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between citizen reporting and government action, ensuring quicker resolution of hazardous road conditions.

Beyond Potholes: A Comprehensive Road Safety Approach
CARS24 is expanding its road safety efforts with new features in its app, making crucial information more accessible to drivers:

•  Location-based helpline numbers for quick access to emergency assistance.
•  Simple road safety guidelines to promote responsible driving behavior.
•  A user-friendly guide to traffic laws to keep motorists informed.
•  A daily road safety quiz to reinforce awareness and encourage engagement.

The feature is currently live on IOS and will be coming soon on Android.

Empowering People: First Responder Training
CARS24 is also preparing to train all Autonauts (its employees) as first responders. The initiative has already begun, with 150 employees—including all co-founders—trained in CPR, first aid, and emergency response techniques. This program will be expanded to equip more people with life-saving skills, ensuring they are prepared to step in when it matters most.

Advocating for a Safer Tomorrow
CARS24 and IRSC are working to address road safety challenges at a broader level by:

•  Identifying and addressing accident-prone zones using data-driven insights.
•  Advocating for stricter road safety enforcement to reduce fatalities.
•  Engaging with policymakers and urban planners to improve road infrastructure for long-term impact.

“We’ve all seen it, a crash that changed a life forever. India has just 1% of the world’s vehicles but 11% of global road deaths. That’s not bad luck—it’s a failure of infrastructure, enforcement, and awareness. Over 60% of these deaths are preventable, yet road accidents remain an everyday tragedy. It’s time to change that. CARS24 is stepping up, not just to talk about road safety, but to take action.

Because no mother should have to fear every time her child steps out. No father should have to worry if their child will make it home. No family should receive a call that changes everything. Fixing potholes, improving accessibility, and empowering people with knowledge and tools, is our first step towards this mission.Having said that, road safety isn’t just one company’s effort; it’s something we all need to take responsibility for. Because a safe journey home shouldn’t be a privilege—it should be something we build together.” said Gajendra Jangid, Co Founder, CARS24

Adding to it, Vikram Chopra, CEO Co Founder, CARS24 said “India loses 3% of its GDP annually due to road crashes. That’s more than what we spend on healthcare and education combined. Beyond the personal tragedy, road accidents impact the entire economy. If fixing roads, enforcing laws, and driving responsibly can save lives and boost our nation’s progress, then we have no excuse not to act.”

As per Amar Srivastava, Founder and President, Indian Road Safety Campaign “We started IRSC more than a decade back due to loss of close seniors to a road-crash at IIT Delhi. However India still loses more than 1 lakh+ youth to road-crashes and solving such a multi-sectoral problem would need the private, government and citizens to come together to solve this while using technology as the backbone for sustainable impact. With our collaboration with CARS24, we aim to save a million lives across the next decade by leveraging technological innovations to change behaviour and nudging citizens at scale to drive responsibly and help reduce crashes by active participation”

As per Deepanshu Gupta, Co-Founder and Vice President, Indian Road Safety Campaign, “While a lot of people believe road-crashes are accidents, they are not. Each and every accident is preventable by systemic interventions and with our collaboration with CARS24 we would work across the 4Es of road-safety [engineering, education, emergency care, enforcement] at 10x scale and speed. Road-crashes are today the leading cause of youth deaths. While this is a global menace, India leads the pack and am hopeful that if we all collaborate to act, we would also be the leaders in showing how to solve this sustainably. Time to act is now ”

Better Drives, Better Lives
CARS24 and IRSC are committed to making road safety a fundamental part of mobility. Every initiative, partnership, and innovation is aimed at reducing accidents, enhancing road conditions, and ensuring safer journeys for all.

Fashion is not just about clothing; it is an expression of personality, culture, and cherished memories. For many, certain pieces in their wardrobe hold a special place, telling unique stories that represent not only style but also sentiment. &TV actors Smita Sable (Dhaniya from Bheema), Geetanjali Mishra (Rajesh from Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Shubhangi Atre (Angoori Bhabi from Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai) talk about their special collection that beautifully reflect their love for both traditional and contemporary fashion. Smita Sable, aka Dhaniya from Bheema, shares, “My love for kurtis began during my college days, and it has only grown since then. I have a variety of kurtis in my wardrobe, catering to every occasion and mood. From chic, contemporary prints that exude modern elegance to those adorned with intricate hand embroidery highlighting India’s rich heritage, my collection is incredibly diverse. I particularly enjoy wearing flowy Anarkali kurtis during festive seasons, as they make me feel regal and festive. For casual outings or day-to-day wear, nothing beats the comfort of soft cotton kurtis in vibrant hues. Then, there are my boho-style kurtis with tassels and mirrors, which are perfect for adding a touch of playfulness to my look. Each piece in my collection reflects my personality and allows me to experiment with style while staying true to my love for tradition and comfort.”

Geetanjali Mishra, aka Rajesh from Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, says, “I am absolutely in love with jhumkas, and they are an integral part of my jewellery collection. There is something so enchanting about how a jhumka dangles and sways, adding charm to even the simplest outfit. My collection is like a treasure filled with jhumkas of all styles and sizes. I have traditional jhumkas, perfect for festive occasions and weddings; meenakari jhumkas in vibrant colours that brighten up even plain outfits; and oxidized silver jhumkas that lend a contemporary, bohemian vibe. I also adore pearl-studded jhumkas for their sheer elegance, as they can elevate any look instantly. Every piece in my collection feels special, reflecting India’s rich culture and artistry. Wearing them not only makes me feel beautiful but also deeply connected to our traditions.” Shubhangi Atre, aka Angoori Bhabi from Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, adds, “Sarees are not just garments for me; they are an emotion and a connection to my roots. Ever since I was a little girl, I admired the way my mother draped her sarees with such elegance and grace. Today, my collection includes a variety of sarees, each with its own story. I cherish my Kanjeevaram sarees with intricate zari work, representing the rich culture of South India, and my Banarasi silk sarees, which are symbols of timeless grandeur and opulence. For casual outings, I adore my soft, flowy chiffon sarees. Among all my sarees, one holds an incredibly special place in my heart—a royal blue Kanjeevaram saree gifted by my mother 15 years ago. It is more than just an outfit; it is a bundle of emotions and memories that make me feel her warmth and love every time I wear it. Draping a saree makes me feel powerful, graceful, and deeply connected to our Indian traditions. It is a timeless attire that will always be my favourite. Recently, I have been fortunate to showcase my love for sarees in some of my photoshoots, where I got to experiment with a variety of drapes and styles. Whether it is a traditional look or a modern twist to saree draping, the shoot allowed me to express my deep admiration for this beautiful attire.”

04, February 2025,Chennai: The journey from being a deeply enthusiastic Math learner to an extraordinary Math genius is just a camp away. This summer, Epsilon India Camp returns with an intense, fun and immersive summer programme for students aged 9 to 13.

Organised by the Raising A Mathematician (RAM) Foundation, Epsilon India is a residential summer camp that empowers mathematically gifted students by combining advanced mathematics education with personal and social development. Epsilon India draws inspiration from the highly regarded Epsilon Camp, founded in the USA in 2011 by veteran research mathematician Dr George R Thomas, founder of Epsilon USA, MathPath and MathCamp.

This year the camp is hosted at the lush green 40-acre campus of Krea University, a leading Liberal Arts and Sciences college situated in Sri City, 70 km from Chennai. Away from the hustle and bustle of a metropolitan, this self-sustained campus boasts of neighbours such as Sriharikota, Kalahasti, Tada and Pulicat.

Cost of accommodation is sponsored by Krea University. For details on other costs, please write to epsiloncampindia@gmail.com. This year the camp is slated from 29 April to 12 May 2025, and the last date for submission of online application is February 10, 2025. To learn more about the application process, visit www.epsilonindia.org.

The camp offers a rigorous curriculum covering a wide array of topics, including Methods of Proofs, Combinatorics, Geometry, Group Theory, and Number Theory. Students are selected on the basis of their performance in the qualification test, a letter of recommendation and an interview. Around 40-50 students are selected from all over India and overseas, out of hundreds of applications. Children spend two screen-free weeks, attending undergraduate-level courses each day, immersing themselves in their passion for the subject. Many participants of the Epsilon India camp perform exceptionally well in Mathematics, Computer Science and Science Olympiads apart from other prestigious competitions at the international level. The camp also offers children and their parents the opportunity to connect with like-minded families, sharing opportunities and perspectives.

The students will be taught primarily by professional Mathematicians, Scientists, Computer Scientists and Statisticians from both academia and industry. Participants will also have Teaching Assistants to help with homework and other academic queries. Counsellors will take care of the students’ socio-emotional needs. Past and current faculty and speakers include Dr S Muralidharan, former Chief Examination Coordinator for India’s official Mathematical Olympiads; Professor Manjul Bhargava, Princeton University, Fields Medalist and Padma Bhushan awardee; Professor Rajeeva L Karandikar, Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Awardee and former director of Chennai Mathematical Institute, Professor Rajiv Gandhi, founder of the PACT, Professor at Rutgers University-Camden, Professor K V Subrahmanyam, Dean of Studies, Chennai Mathematical Institute and more.

On the Mehfil stage at the Spoken Fest, Mumbai, the Badhaai Ho fame Gajraj Rao presented a thought-provoking and witty tale in his signature humorous style. It captured the unspoken struggles of chasing an unconventional dream in a world that values security over passion. The seasoned actor, who has carved a niche with his nuanced roles, delivered his story filled with raw emotion with a personal reflection on societal expectations and generational shifts. His words echoed a poignant truth about how the very phrases “Log Kya Kahenge”/ “Koi ladki nahi dega” that once shaped his own choices have now shaped his children’s paths.

Gajraj Rao took the audience back to 1989, painting a picture of a home where television and Doordarshan were the only source of entertainment, and stability was the ultimate goal. His father, like many of those times, believed in traditional success—secure jobs, government postings, and a steady pay check. They would often argue, with his father taunting him about being a theatre artist, insisting that destiny wouldn’t unlock with the stage but with a stable job—one that offered security, not uncertainty. But Gajraj had different dreams, ones that didn’t fit within the confines of a stable career. “Acting ki gaadi nahi chali toh patri change kar dunga, writer ban jaunga”, he would tell himself. (Translation: If the acting career doesn’t take off, I’ll switch tracks and become a writer.)

He hilariously recounted the taunts that once shaped his journey, the weight of expectations pressing down on him. “If you are so good for nothing, then log kya kahenge? Koi ladki nahi dega!” he mimicked his father, leaving the audience nodding and giggling in recognition. (Translation: If you are so good for nothing, what will people say? No one will give you a girl). However, these words weren’t just his father’s—they echoed through neighbours’ unsolicited advice and relatives’ knowing glances.

His immense love for cricket, especially watching Test matches with his friend, was yet another source of criticism. With a playful eye-roll, he recalled his father’s exasperated remarks: “Cricket ka itna shauk tha toh khel lete, sports quota mein admission mil jaata”.
(Translation: If you were so fond of cricket, you should have played—it could have gotten your admission through the sports quota.)

“Government job hone se future safe ho jaata hai, acting hobby ke liye theek hai”, said a relative, reinforcing the belief that stability was the only respectable path, while dreams like his were nothing more than fleeting indulgences. (Translation: A government job secures your future; acting is fine as a hobby.)

“What will people say? What will society say? These are the questions I’ve tried to solve since childhood”, he admitted with a smirk. While his friends followed conventional paths, securing stable jobs and structured lives, he was constantly reminded of what he lacked—certainty, predictability, and in their eyes, a respectable future. Compared to the sons of his father’s friends, cousins and relatives who studied hard and built steady careers, he was the outlier, the one who hadn’t ‘figured it out’.

But despite the doubt, Gajraj held his ground. And then, validation came unexpectedly—from an NRI relative who, unlike the others, expressed genuine excitement upon learning that Gajraj was pursuing dramatics. “Your son will be the first in our family to earn fame through the arts. You are very lucky”, he told Gajraj’s father, a sentiment that shifted the entire narrative at home. For the first time, his father, who had always dismissed the profession, seemed to see it in a new light. That single moment of support planted the idea that perhaps dramatics could be a real career choice.

Theatre was his calling, even if it meant enduring scepticism, struggling through rejections, and walking an uncertain road. The climb was slow, riddled with self-doubt, yet he pressed on, proving that passion could be a pursuit, not just a pastime.

And then, the irony. The same people who once warned him that “no girl would marry an actor” now proudly pointed at the screen when he appeared. The whispers of doubt had turned into murmurs of admiration. Society, once his biggest critic, had rewritten its own rules—because success, as it turns out, isn’t measured by stability. It’s measured by conviction.

Gajraj’s story wasn’t just about defying expectations; it was about rewriting them. And in doing so, he left the audience with a question of their own—what if we stopped asking, log kya kahenge?

With his effortless charm, storytelling prowess, and a lot of humour, Gajraj took the attendees through a journey of self-reflection and familial bonds, making them question not just the world around them, but also the world within. Each word resonated deeply, as the lines between personal experiences and universal truths blurred.

The atmosphere of Spoken Fest’s seventh edition was palpable. Building on the tradition of the previous six editions, the audience in Mumbai has strongly connected with the spirit of the festival. Spoken Fest once again became a sanctuary for those seeking deeper connections through words, drawing a community of listeners eager to experience the art of storytelling, poetry and music from India’s most cherished voices.

Kochi, February 04, 2025: In a significant move to bolster the startup ecosystem in India, South Indian Bank (SIB), one of the country’s leading scheduled commercial banks, has launched two specialized startup current account products—SIB Business Startup Current Account and SIB Corporate Startup Current Account. The launch event, held at the Andromeda auditorium in their administrative Building in Rajagiri Valley Kochi, was graced by key dignitaries, including Mr. P. R. Seshadri, MD & CEO of South Indian Bank, and Mr. Susanth Kurunthil, CEO of Infoparks Kerala.

The SIB Business Startup Current Account caters to sole proprietorships and partnerships, providing them with essential banking support to establish a strong foundation during their initial years. On the other hand, the SIB Corporate Startup Current Account is designed for private limited companies, public limited companies, one-person companies, and limited liability partnerships, meeting the more complex financial needs of larger business entities. To qualify for these accounts, firms must have an incorporation or registration date not older than three years. These products are packed with unique features, including zero minimum balance requirement of up to three years, unlimited free RTGS/NEFT transactions via digital channels, and a premium debit card offering exclusive benefits such as airport lounge access.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. P. R. Seshadri, MD & CEO of South Indian Bank, said, “At South Indian Bank, we understand the unique challenges faced by startups and entrepreneurs. Our new Startup Current Accounts are tailored to meet their financial needs, allowing them to focus entirely on achieving their business objectives. With features like no minimum balance requirement for up to three years and unlimited free digital transactions, we aim to provide a seamless banking experience that empowers startups to scale new heights.”

Mr. Susanth Kurunthil, CEO of Infopark Kerala, commended South Indian Bank’s initiative, stating, “The startup ecosystem in India is rapidly evolving, and having the right financial tools is crucial for sustained growth. South Indian Bank’s Startup Current Accounts are an excellent addition to the resources available for entrepreneurs. By offering innovative banking solutions, the bank is playing a pivotal role in fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.”

The event also featured an interactive session with students from professional colleges in Kochi on entrepreneurship by Mr. Bergin S Russel, Head of Academic Entrepreneurship Development at Kerala Startup Mission, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy and highlighting the extensive support available for startups. Other notable attendees included Mr. Dolphy Jose, Executive Director, Mr. Anto George T, Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Sanchay Kumar Sinha, Chief General Manager & Head of Retail Assets, Ms. Biji S S, SGM & Head of Branch Banking, and Mr. Sony A, Chief Information Officer, South Indian Bank.

South Indian Bank’s latest initiative reaffirms its commitment to nurturing India’s entrepreneurial spirit, providing startups with the financial agility they need to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Nestled amidst the timeless beauty of the Qutab Minar, where history meets the present, Qla has long been synonymous with refined elegance and exceptional dining. Known for its fusion of European cuisine and modern sensibilities, the restaurant has consistently set itself apart with its creative approach to dining. Now, Qla is taking the next exciting step in its culinary journey, revealing a brand-new menu designed to delight the senses and the imagination.

With a vision to bring the world’s flavours to your plate, Qla’s new menu honours culinary creativity, blending influences from across the globe, Mediterranean herbs, Latin American spices, and more. Each dish is meticulously crafted to compliment its cultural roots while offering a refreshing, modern twist. It’s a gastronomic journey that charms diners with bold flavours, innovative combinations, and artful presentations.

“We’ve reimagined our menu to reminisce the evolving culinary landscape,” says Chef Dipender Kumar Tiwari, the mastermind behind the diverse and dynamic unique offerings at Qla. “Every dish is designed to take our guests on a journey of taste, where tradition meets creativity, and global ingredients come together in surprising and delightful ways.”

The highlights of the new menu are nothing short of extraordinary. Dishes such as Starfruit + Chevre showcase the perfect balance of creaminess and acidity, balanced by the crunch of starfruit. Kimchi with fried tempura broccoli ribs adds an exciting East-West fusion with the addition of parmesan snow, while Chipotle baby zucchini marinated in Mexican chilli and complemented by creamy feta cheese promises a taste adventure like no other. For something truly special, the Indian-Inspired barbeque carrot salad named madras curry comes with seasonal carrots, labneh & carrot juice reduction sauce with the rich spirited flavours of madras curry from southern India.

Expect innovative presentations that are as visually stunning as they are flavorful. Qla’s culinary team uses locally sourced ingredients to enrich each dish while ensuring sustainability and seasonality. Adding Lakhoiri Chilli Prawns, sourced from Qla’s farm, shows the restaurant’s loyalty to quality and freshness.

The new menu is a feast for the palate and invites diners to engage with their food in new ways. From interactive dessert experiences to curated drink pairings, Qla has reimagined what it means to dine out. The Miso Dessert, featuring braised chilli pineapple, miso ice cream, and hazelnut tuile, is a perfect example of how Qla is pushing the boundaries of what dessert can be.

For those seeking comfort, Qla offers a separate menu of kid-friendly dishes, including pasta, sandwiches, and burgers, guaranteeing a memorable experience for the whole family. And while the new menu is full of fresh, bold offerings, loyal patrons will still find a selection of beloved dishes with a modern trace.

In an industry overflowing with options, Qla continues to shine by offering truly original dishes that define flavour and presentation. Whether it’s the Korean-Vietnamese fusion, perfectly smoked robata-grilled duck, or Italian-inspired piccalilli sauces, Qla remains a star of creativity in the culinary cosmos.

By Vinkesh Gulati, Vice President, Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC)

Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC) welcomes the progressive and growth-driven Union Budget 2025-26, which strengthens India’s commitment to electric mobility, innovation, and skill development. The focus on EV manufacturing, R&D, and industry competitiveness marks a significant step toward sustainable growth.

The Clean Tech manufacturing support program, emphasizing domestic value addition in solar PV cells, EV batteries, motors, and controllers, is crucial for self-reliance. The removal of Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on cobalt powder, lithium-ion battery waste, and essential minerals will significantly reduce manufacturing costs, ensure resource stability, and accelerate EV adoption. This bold move will boost domestic production, create jobs, and enhance India’s EV cost-competitiveness, paving the way for a cleaner, energy-independent future.

At ASDC, we are fully committed to aligning skill development programs with industry needs, particularly in the EV sector. Collaborating with the government, industry stakeholders, and educational institutions, we aim to build a robust pipeline of skilled professionals who can drive the automotive sector’s growth.

This budget will create jobs, foster innovation, and position India as a global leader in sustainable mobility. ASDC is dedicated to playing a proactive role in realizing this vision and contributing to the nation’s progress.

An unforgettable culinary adventure and a festive celebration await at Grand Mercure Mysore’s La Uppu restaurant. From February 7th-9th, 2025, indulge in a feast of authentic Chinese and Southeast Asian flavors, capturing the essence of prosperity and good fortune. The festivities reach their peak with a Chinese New Year brunch on February 9th, the perfect way to share delicious food and good company.
A feast for the senses awaits, from zesty Seafood Laksa and delicate Vietnamese Spring Rolls to bold Cantonese Stir-Fried Lamb and the exquisite Gai Pad Med Mamuang, Chef Pradip and his team present a culinary journey through Asia. We’ve also reimagined traditional Chinese New Year recipes with the finest seasonal ingredients, creating unforgettable dining experiences from elegant dinner to a vibrant brunch.

Gather your friends and family for a feast at La Uppu! Groups of five or more enjoy a 20% discount, making it the perfect spot for sharing delicious Chinese cuisine and creating lasting memories in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

What: Chinese Food Festival at Grand Mercure Mysore
Where: La Uppu, Grand Mercure Mysore
When: 7th February, 2025 and 8th February, 2025
7pm – 11pm (Dinner)
9th February, 2025
1pm – 4pm (Brunch)

Gurgaon, February 4, 2025 – Fixderma, the popular dermatologist-prescribed skincare brand, is excited to announce the launch of its new babycare product line, Hoopoe. The Hoopoe range is a collection of gentle, safe, and effective products specifically designed to care for and protect babies’ delicate skin.

The new range includes seven dermatologist-tested products such as the Moisturizing Lotion, Massage Elixir, Gentle Hair & Body Wash, Anti-Itch Lotion, Mild Sunscreen, Anti-Rash Face Cream, and Diaper Rash Cream. These products combine natural ingredients and advanced scientific formulations to offer hydration, protection, and relief from common skin issues like dryness, eczema, and diaper rashes.

“At Fixderma, we are committed to offering solutions that address the needs of every individual, from babies to adults. With Hoopoe, we have extended our expertise into a completely new category, with products specifically created to care for and protect the skin of our littlest customers. We understand the importance of using gentle yet effective products for babies, and Hoopoe delivers just that – safe, soothing formulations backed by science.” said Shaily Mehrotra, CEO and Co-founder, of Fixderma.

“With Hoopoe, we’re not just launching another babycare range—we’re setting a new standard. Parents today want reassurance when it comes to their baby’s skincare, and that’s exactly what we’re offering. Our products have been rigorously tested, and we have certifications to back their safety and efficacy—something no other brand in the category has right now. It’s about trust, and we’re proud to bring that level of credibility to the babycare space.” said Mr. Anurag Mehrotra, Chairman, of Fixderma.

“We see tremendous potential by expanding into the babycare segment. Fixderma is not only diversifying its product portfolio but also positioning itself as a trusted brand for families seeking high-quality, effective solutions for their children’s skincare needs. This launch marks a strategic milestone in our growth trajectory, as we continue to innovate and strengthen our market presence globally.” said Mr. Preetam Jena, CMO & eCommerce Head, Fixderma

The Hoopoe babycare range is now available for purchase on Fixderma’s official website: www.fixderma.com.

Established in 2010, Fixderma is a leading dermatologist-prescribed skincare company known for its innovative approach to skin health. Started with a clear vision of – Fixing your Derm, Fixderma has garnered global recognition, exporting to over 40 countries. Their premium skincare range serves as a bridge between prescription-based treatments and over-the-counter cosmetics, addressing various skin issues such as aging, acne, dryness, and hyperpigmentation. Today, Fixderma is trusted by over 15,000+ dermatologists who prescribe our products to their patients. We’re also proud to be preferred sellers across leading marketplaces and recently opened our first flagship store in Gurgaon in 2024, bringing our promise directly to consumers.