Pidilite Elevates Vats to MD, Singh Joins as JMD

2nd April 2025: The Board of Directors of the Company has approved the appointment of Mr. Sudhanshu Vats as Managing Director and the appointment of Mr. Kavinder Singh as Joint Managing Director, in its Board Meeting held on 1st April 2025. This change will be effective from 10th April 2025, after the completion of the term of the current Managing Director, Mr. Bharat Puri who has been the Managing Director of the Company for a decade since 10th April 2015.

The Board expressed its deep appreciation and gratitude for the valuable contributions made by Mr. Bharat Puri during his tenure as Managing Director of the Company.

The Board of Directors also appointed Mr. Bharat Puri as Non-Executive and Non-Independent Director of the Board of the Company for a term of 3 years commencing from 10th April 2025 to 9th April 2028.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. M. B. Parekh, Executive Chairman of the Company, said “We thank Bharat for his invaluable contribution as Managing Director for the last 10 years. Pidilite has made substantial progress and created significant shareholder value during his term. The appointments of Sudhanshu and Kavinder as MD and Joint MD will reflect the next phase of the Pidilite leadership journey. I look forward to working with the two of them in building the Pidilite of the future”.

RSB Women Changemaker Awards Celebrate Strong & Visionary Women

2nd April 2025, Pune: RSB Group proudly hosted the fourth edition of its Women Changemakers Award Ceremony under its flagship women empowerment initiative, Ek Pahal, in Pune. The event celebrated and honored remarkable women who have significantly contributed to society in the fields of education, social work, and community service.

The ceremony commenced with traditional lamp lighting and Ganesh Vandana, setting the tone for an evening of inspiration and empowerment. A compelling skit titled Shabashiyaan, performed by RSB employees, shed light on women’s struggles at every stage of life, societal expectations, and unwavering resilience to fight all odds and never give up.

The event was graced by Chief Guest Seema Dhakane, Senior Police Inspector, Chandan Nagar Police Station Pune, who delivered an inspiring address on the importance of women’s empowerment and ability to take independent decisions in today’s world. Addressing the audience, she applauded RSB for this powerful initiative and added, “Empowerment begins with the courage to take risks and make decisions for oneself. Women must express themselves fearlessly, uplift each other, and create a world where every woman has the support to grow and succeed.”

Additionally, esteemed educator Deepali Chavan, Founder of Sri Adhyayan Preschool, Urmila Behera, and Nalini Behera, Founder Members of RSB, were the Guests of Honour for the event.

Honoring Women Changemakers: The Women Changemakers Award 2025 recognized the extraordinary contributions of:

  • Dr. Amrapali Mohite, transgender social worker, for her tireless efforts in supporting 1,087 underprivileged children with education and essential services.

  • Arti Suryavanshi, special educator at Cochlea Pune, for her over two-decade-long dedication to improving the lives of hearing-impaired children.

  • Madhuri Ajay Gaikwad, Founder of Madhuban Matimand Va Bahuvikang Samajik Sanstha, for her selfless service to orphaned girls and children with disabilities.

  • Shanta Balu Pawar, Pune’s revered ‘Warrior Aaji,’ for empowering young girls through martial arts while supporting her family through street performances.

Speaking on the occasion, Nirmala Behera, Executive Director – HR, RSB Group, acknowledged the resilience and achievements of the awardees, stating, “These remarkable women exemplify perseverance and dedication, proving that true change begins with passion and purpose. The Women Changemakers Award Ceremony, organized by Ek Pahal – an initiative of RSB Group, is a testament to the unwavering spirit of those who overcome challenges and work tirelessly for the well-being of their communities. At RSB, we remain steadfast in our commitment to increasing women’s workforce participation by 30% and fostering a more inclusive and empowering work environment.”

The Ek Pahal Women Changemakers Award Ceremony was a resounding success, and through this initiative, RSB Group reaffirms its commitment to recognizing and supporting women who inspire change and lead the way toward a more equitable society.

Kiran Bhadoria Appointed Rooms Division Manager at Novotel Pune

Pune, 02nd April 2025

Novotel Pune is pleased to announce the appointment of Kiran Bhadoria as the new Rooms Division Manager. With over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, Kiran brings a wealth of expertise in housekeeping operations, guest service excellence, and team leadership.

A passionate animal communicator and animal lover Kiran is known for exceptional attention to detail, speed, and accuracy in operations. Kiran’s areas of expertise include guest room management, horticulture, team training, coaching, and time management. Having been instrumental in implementing brand experience standards and executing stringent hygiene measures during the pandemic, Kiran is known for leadership qualities that inspire teams and foster operational excellence.

Prior to joining Novotel Pune, Kiran served as the Executive Housekeeper at Westin Resort and Spa, Himalayas, and Grand Hyatt, Kochi. Kiran has also held leadership roles at Hyatt Regency Ludhiana, Hyatt Regency Pune, The Leela Mumbai, JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity, and The Oberoi Mumbai, among others.

On joining Novotel Pune, Kiran Bhadoria shared, “I am thrilled to be a part of Novotel Pune and look forward to elevating the guest experience while driving efficiency and excellence in room division operations.”

Anant Leekha, General Manager, Novotel Pune added, “We are excited to welcome Kiran to our team. Her vast experience and leadership skills will contribute to enhancing our service standards and operational efficiency.”

The team at Novotel Pune looks forward to achieving new milestones under Kiran’s leadership

Premium French Innovation: Alcatel Commits to Indian Market

1st April 2025: Alcatel, is a French tech brand independently operated by TCL Communication under trademark licensing from Nokia, is set to begin its operations in India, one of the world’s fastest-growing smartphone markets. The brand will launch a smartphone with a stylus, making premium technology accessible to the mass market in India. Advancing its legacy, the brand will introduce a range of premium smartphones that combine cutting-edge technology and India’s first patented innovations (pending or granted) along with a stylish design inspired by French heritage, advanced hardware, and unique features—all while remaining accessible to the rapidly expanding Indian consumer market.

The brand’s smartphones will be manufactured in India from the beginning, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Recognizing India’s immense potential, the brand aims to reach millions of new users as mobile technology adoption accelerates. Additionally, Alcatel will establish a robust pan-India service network to ensure seamless support for its consumers.

As Alcatel enters the Indian market, it brings not only its patented technology and decades of expertise but also an unwavering commitment to providing Indian consumers with exceptional experiences that enhance their everyday lives. With a deep-rooted history of pioneering in innovative technologies and an uncompromising focus on quality, Alcatel India is excited to introduce this rich heritage to a market that values and nurtures progress. The brand aims to make premium features more accessible, targeting urban aspirants, tech enthusiasts, and digital nomads.

Speaking about this,

Atul Vivek, CBO (Chief Business Officer):

At Alcatel, our vision for India is to democratize innovation by making premium features accessible to a broader audience. Our devices seamlessly merge with style and performance, catering to tech enthusiasts, urban aspirants, fashion-conscious consumers, and digital nomads alike. We believe that technology should not only be powerful but also reflect the latest trends, and we are excited to introduce products that embody this philosophy in the Indian market.”

Ansh Rathi, COO (Chief Operating Officer):

As we expand our presence in India, from day 1 we have embraced the ‘Made in India’ initiative by focusing on local manufacturing. By producing our devices within the country, we aim to enhance supply chain efficiency, ensure superior quality, and contribute to India’s growing technology ecosystem. This strategic move not only strengthens our commitment to the Indian market but also reinforces our mission to make cutting-edge technology more accessible and affordable for consumers.

With its rich heritage and strong commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and consumer-centricity, Alcatel looks forward to delivering a comprehensive tech ecosystem to Indian consumers. By combining premium design, cutting-edge innovation, and an unparalleled user experience, the brand aims to redefine the Indian smartphone industry.

BSE Institute & IFI Partner to Shape India’s Financial Future

April 01, 2025: India’s Future Investors (IFI), the country’s first-ever investment education reality TV show, collaborates with BSE Institute Limited (BIL), a 100% subsidiary of BSE Limited, as its official knowledge partner. This collaboration aims to empower IFI participants with industry-leading financial literacy and investment knowledge through free webinars, and certifications.

Under this partnership, IFI participants will get certificates from BSE Institute and gain exclusive access to BSE Institute’s specialized training programs, offering insights into stock markets, financial planning, and investment strategies, enhancing their credentials and boosting their confidence as informed investors.

Speaking on the partnership, Mahek Tomer, Founder & CEO of IFI, said, “Partnering with BSE Institute marks a major milestone in our mission to foster a culture of informed investing. By equipping our participants with expert knowledge, practical skills, and recognized certification, we aim to create a new generation of savvy investors who can make confident and data-driven financial decisions. This partnership will add immense value to our show, making financial literacy accessible and rewarding.”

Mr.V.Narayanan Iyer, Managing Director, BSE Institute Limited, added, “Financial literacy is the cornerstone of a strong and resilient economy. By collaborating with IFI, we are excited to provide aspiring investors with access to world-class educational resources and certification. Our goal is to empower participants with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the financial markets effectively, contributing to India’s journey towards becoming a $5 trillion economy.”

The partnership with BSE Institute complements IFI’s vision of making financial education engaging and practical. This initiative will not only enhance the financial skills of participants but also inspire millions of viewers to embrace responsible investing. With BSE Institute as the knowledge partner, India’s Future Investors continue to lead the way in transforming financial literacy into an exciting and empowering experience, shaping the future of India’s investor community.

Space Exploration Meets Earthbound Innovation

1 April 2025: While others race to the moon and back, the Faroe Islands space program takes a bold new step in space exploration—without ever leaving Earth. One of the largest bearing manufacturers SKF, and ocean energy developer Minesto are launching a space program to harness the Moon’s energy by leveraging the power of the tides. This space program aims to utilize the resources we already have right here on Earth.

“Imagine a future powered by the tides of the Moon. This unique project dares to dream big and is exploring the potential of renewable tidal energy. At SKF we are proud to be a part of this down-to-earth project that aligns with our values and our ambition to create a more sustainable world,” says Annika Ölme, CTO & SVP, Technology Development, SKF.

Over the past year, SKF and Minesto have been pioneering tidal energy using tidal kites in the Atlantic Sea outside the Faroe Islands. The mission is to harness the Moon’s power for predictable and renewable energy. After its successful launch into the ocean, the tidal kite called LUNA is flying underwater, invisibly and silently harvesting energy from the Moon – no matter the weather. Today, only a few of the countries with favorable tidal current conditions are beginning to utilize the full potential of moon generated energy – the most predictable renewable energy source on the globe.

For us, as a tech development company to work with a global industrial company such as SKF is both a learning experience and an inspiration,” says Martin Edlund, CEO of Minesto. “We estimate there are at least 3000 more “Faroe Islands” out there qualifying for our space program – if they all join, moon energy could replace all coal power capacity currently under development globally.”

The established tidal energy facility – a moon energy base – will kick off the Faroe Islands Space Program, firmly grounded on Earth. The kite Luna has a rated power of 1.2 MW, enough to power 200 villas with electricity for one year. The next goal is to implement a new 200 MW tidal energy facility. This could meet 40% of the expected electricity needs in 2030, providing green electricity to the small, remote island nation’s 50,000 people and 70,000 sheep. Unlocking the power of the tides is a joint work together with power company Sev:

Our vision is to reach 100% renewable electricity generation by 2030 and we believe that tidal power may prove to become a vital part of this journey,” says Hákun Djurhuus, CEO of the Faroese electricity company Sev.

SKF was brought on board to design the bearing and sealing systems for the rudders and elevators of the kites. The SKF software system calculates, for example, bearing rating life and estimates CO2 emissions, which makes it possible to compare different solutions not only from a technical perspective but also from a sustainability point of view.

“Collaboration across industries is essential for progress. Together with Minesto, we are demonstrating how technology and innovation can drive the transition to renewable energy,” says Annika Ölme, CTO & SVP, Technology Development, SKF.

Adding to this, SKF’s presence in key global markets, including India and Southeast Asia, highlights the broader potential of tidal energy solutions.

“This collaboration with Minesto represents a breakthrough in how we approach renewable energy, utilizing the Moon’s gravitational pull to create a steady and predictable power source,” says Sujeeth Pai, Director Industrial Market, SKF India Ltd. “As countries like India aim for energy security and sustainability, solutions like tidal energy offer immense potential, particularly for coastal regions. At SKF, we are committed to enabling this transformation through our advanced bearing and sealing technologies, ensuring long-term efficiency and reliability of tidal energy systems. The Faroe Islands project serves as a model that could be replicated in regions with high tidal energy potential, contributing to a cleaner global energy mix.”

By framing it as a space program (that never leaves earth), the partners aim to emphasize the importance of exploring how we can harness the Moon’s energy to generate renewable energy through tidal forces—amidst a new space race where many are discussing the potential of extracting resources from space and other planets.

Marriott Strengthens Presence with New Courtyard Hotel in Jharkhand

April 01, 2025 – Courtyard by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced the opening of Courtyard by Marriott Ranchi, marking the debut of the first Marriott International brand in Jharkhand. Nestled in the state’s most sought-after areas, renowned for the stunning Rock Garden and picturesque Kanke Dam, this 111-room hotel exemplifies refined living and modern design. It offers a welcoming escape for both business and leisure travelers with enhanced comforts, memorable experiences and a delightful mix of local and international cuisines. Courtyard by Marriott Ranchi is ideally situated just 35 minutes from Birsa Munda Airport and 30 minutes from The Ranchi Junction and Hatia Railway Stations.

“We are excited to mark a significant milestone in our expansion journey in India with the opening of Courtyard by Marriott Ranchi, our first in the vibrant, capital of Jharkhand. This launch underscores our commitment to entering promising markets like Ranchi, which offers a unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty. Courtyard by Marriott is designed to cater to the evolving needs of modern travelers, seamlessly combining innovative technology, comfort, and style. We look forward to welcoming guests for business, leisure, or a blend of both, as we continue to bring our signature hospitality to new destinations”, said Ranju Alex, Regional Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International.

 Courtyard by Marriott Ranchi features 111 spacious rooms thoughtfully designed for the comfort and convenience of the modern-day traveler. Paired with smart amenities, each room blends sleek, contemporary aesthetics with functionality, offering conveniences such as high-speed Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a well-appointed writing desk. The room views alternate between the pristine, peaceful waters of the Kanke Dam and lush, manicured gardens, offering guests the option of a refreshing pause between work commitments.

Dining venues at the hotel comprise of an all-day dining – Viraasat, where a warm, bustling open kitchen and a tempting selection of local and international cuisines await to satisfy every palette. For a more casual experience, guests can head to the Courtyard Cafe, the hotel’s charming deli-style cafe, offering a selection of locally inspired small bites, freshly brewed coffees, and a variety of beverages. Whether it’s a quick mid-day break or, wrapping to a day well spent, Skyline, the rooftop bar offers a serene escape to soak in the sun by the poolside, or enjoy a sundowner with expertly crafted cocktails, refreshing mocktails, and a delectable menu.

To keep guests moving forward and help them pursue their passions while on the road, the hotel offers a fully equipped 24-hour Fitness Center with state-of-the-art workout machines. Complementing this is the rooftop pool, an open-to-sky retreat on the top floor, along with a dedicated steam area, where guests can relax while soaking in the breathtaking panorama of Kanke Dam.

Ideally located adjacent to the Nucleus Mall, the hotel offers guests easy access to the Rock Garden and Kanke Dam, which are must-visit attractions. Referred to as the ‘City of Waterfalls’ Ranchi, is dotted with lush green hills and generous waterfalls such as the Hundru, Dassam and Jonha Falls. The city also holds deeply religious roots, with the 17th– century Jagannath Temple and the Pahari Mandir, situated on a hillside, offering panoramic city views. Those interested in the region’s rich tribal heritage can visit the Tribal Research Institute and Museum, which provides a deep dive into Jharkhand’s indigenous cultures, traditions, and artifacts.  Ranchi is renowned for its rich tribal heritage and cultural diversity, showcased through local festivals, art, dance and traditional crafts.

The hotel features 9,100 sq. feet of versatile event space, blending elegance and functionality for both corporate and social occasions. Vista Hall, the crown jewel, spans 4,123 sq. feet and accommodates up to 300 guests, making it the ideal venue for grand celebrations, conferences, and receptions. With cutting-edge AV equipment and customizable layouts, it promises seamless service and a sophisticated atmosphere. For more intimate gatherings, the Executive Chamber offers a private, 400 sq. foot sanctuary on the top floor, designed for up to 14 guests, ensuring both productivity and discretion. The 4,000 sq. foot Skyline Venue offers an enchanting open-air setting with breathtaking views of Kanke Dam, perfect for outdoor banquets, evening celebrations, or corporate events. With tailored catering and décor, it promises to elevate any occasion into a truly unforgettable experience.

On this exciting launch, Pramod Singh, Hotel Manager, Courtyard by Marriott Ranchi, shared, “We are excited to introduce the first Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Jharkhand, bringing our signature warmth and hospitality to the heart of this vibrant state. At Courtyard by Marriott Ranchi, our trailblazing guests are welcomed with genuine care, thoughtful comforts and provided an effortlessly inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring the region’s rich heritage or simply looking for a place to relax, we look forward to making your stay truly memorable.”

BenQ Unveils W2720i: World’s First AI Home Cinema Projector

1st April, 2024: BenQ, leading DLP Projector Company has introduced their World’s First AI home cinema projector – W2720i equipped with a “revolutionary’ AI Cinema Mode, redefining home entertainment for AV enthusiasts.

BenQ’s W2720i’s Cinema Mode is engineered with in-built camera sensors to provide a seamless setup and superior picture quality by combining features such as real-time ambient brightness adjustment and scene-specific enhancements to provide an experience that’s tailored to every user.

The W2720i projector comes with In-built Android TV, delivering a premium streaming experience on a stunning big screen up to 200” and utilizing an efficient 4LED light source (RGBB), which has life time up to 30,000 hours.

BenQ’s exclusive CinematicColor™ technology (90% DCI P3) ensures that users see colours exactly as filmmakers intended, bringing their favourite content to life with incredible accuracy, while BenQ’s advanced HDR-PRO™ technology intelligently enhances contrast to reveal subtle details in both bright and dark scenes. W2720i has Local Contrast Enhancer for enhanced dynamic contrast in HDR10+ and HLG modes. It also offers customizable picture modes such as Filmmaker Mode and Cinema Mode.

The W2720i also offers a flexible projection setup that can project a 120” screen from just 2.7 meters away, and can go up to 200” diagonal.  With features like 1.3x zoom, Auto Screen Fit, 8-point Corner Fit, and Vertical Lens Shift, it can be installed conveniently. It also supports comprehensive entertainment options with Built-in Android TV with 4K streaming services such as Netflix and Disney+. The projector includes one HDMI 2.1 (4K 120 Hz), & two HDMI 2.0b, SPDIF, and eARC for 7.1 channel sound with Dolby Atmos pass-through, making it easy to connect to soundbars or speakers.

 Mr. Rajeev Singh, Managing Director, BenQ India & South Asia, commented on the launch, “The W2720i represents a significant contribution towards making premium AI-powered home cinema experiences accessible to more Indian consumers. Its innovative AI Cinema Mode and superior colour performance demonstrate our commitment to bringing cutting-edge technology to every home.

JioHotstar and Amitabh Bachchan Unite to Livestream the Sacred Splendor of Ram Navami

1st April 2025; National: JioHotstar continues to revolutionize India’s live streaming experience by making it more inclusive and accessible, connecting millions and bridging the gap between audiences and their favorite events. Following the tremendous success of Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres and Mahashivratri: The Divine Night livestream, which captivated millions, the platform is now set to bring the festivities of Ram Navami to viewers with a special live stream from Ayodhya on 6th April, from 8AM to 1PM. The celebrations will feature the legendary Padma Vibhushan Shri. Amitabh Bachchan narrating evocative stories of the Ram Katha. Combining community celebrations with technology, the livestream reinforces JioHotstar’s commitment to enhancing accessibility, bringing cultural moments closer to millions, and ensuring an unforgettable experience.

At the heart of this momentous occasion, Padma Vibhushan Shri. Amitabh Bachchan will share timeless wisdom and reflections on Lord Ram’s values, offering a celebration of our cultural heritage and inspiring a forward-looking vision for India. The festivities will capture the joy and reverence of Lord Ram’s birth and journey, depicting the seven kands of the Ramayana, all while streaming live from the heart of Ram Janmabhoomi to spiritually uplift viewers with his legacy. Shri. Amitabh Bachchan will also host an interactive session with kids, showcasing select stories and couplets of the kands in an engaging and relatable manner. From a special pooja performed at Ayodhya, sacred rituals across temples, to soul-stirring LIVE aartis from Bhadrachalam, Panchvati, Chitrakoot and Ayodhya, to devotional bhajans, and mesmerizing cultural performances by revered artists including Kailash Kher and Malini Awasthi, the livestream will evoke a collective sense of devotion and togetherness.

Speaking on the initiative, a JioHotstar spokesperson stated, “Our live streaming capabilities have enabled us to bring culturally significant experiences to viewers across India. The overwhelming success of events from live sports to Coldplay – Live from Ahmedabad to the 14-hour livestream of the recent Mahashivratri: The Divine Night has inspired us to push boundaries and offer unparalleled experiences to Indian consumers. Ram Navami is a deeply revered occasion in our country, and we’re honored to bring its sacred celebrations to millions in every corner of the country. With the legend himself, Shri Amitabh Bachchan narrating Lord Ram’s journey, this experience promises to evoke profound emotions on this auspicious occasion.”

Padma Vibhushan Shri. Amitabh Bachchan said, “To be part of such a sacred occasion is an honor of a lifetime. Ram Navami is more than a festival—it is a moment of deep reflection, a time to embrace the ideals of dharma, devotion, and righteousness that Lord Ram personified. Through JioHotstar, we are blessed with the power of technology to transcend distances, uniting hearts across the nation in an unprecedented celebration of faith, culture, and spirituality.”

With initiatives like these, JioHotstar is unlocking Infinite Possibilities, enabling viewers across the nation to experience the beauty of festivities from the comfort of their homes. By curating live-stream events like Coldplay, Mahashivratri, and Ram Navami, the platform celebrates the nation’s rich heritage in a manner that is immersive and deeply engaging.

Celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage through the power of digital devotion, with a special livestream on 6th April, only on JioHotstar

Where Pets Vacation in Style: Barker and Meowsky Sets a New Standard in Luxury Pet Boarding

April 1, 2025:Imagine a world where your dog enjoys a relaxing oil massage, your cat dozes in a sunlit nook after a play session with carefully chosen companions, and you receive adorable real-time updates while sipping coffee, knowing your furry friend is in expert hands. That’s not a dream — it’s Barker and Meowsky.

Redefining the way pet parents experience boarding and daycare, Barker and Meowsky (BnM) introduces boutique pet care that fuses luxury, love, and loyalty into every detail. With state-of-the-art, temperament-based groupings, and emotionally attuned staff, BnM ensures that pets aren’t just accommodated — they’re celebrated.

“Boarding shouldn’t feel like a compromise. At Barker and Meowsky, we’ve created a space where pets feel like they’re on vacation too,” says Pratik Sheth, Co-Founder of Barker and Meowsky. “From curated activities to one-on-one cuddles, every moment is designed with intention and care.”

More than just a facility, Barker and Meowsky feels like a second home — complete with spa-style grooming, calming aroma therapies, and premium nutrition options. Whether it’s a senior dog needing extra attention or an energetic pup eager for structured play, every pet’s stay is tailored to their unique personality and needs.

But it doesn’t stop at the pets. BnM caters to pet parents with concierge-like transparency — think personalized consultations, behavior tracking, and constant updates to keep them connected throughout their pet’s stay.

Beyond the walls of its plush facility, Barker and Meowsky is building a community of conscious pet lovers through events, workshops, and social gatherings, making it a lifestyle brand in the pet care space.

For those who believe their pets deserve more than the ordinary, Barker and Meowsky offer a luxury escape — a boutique boarding experience where wagging tails and purring hearts say it all.