Archives June 2024

New Delhi, India, 19th June 2024: Tata Technologies, a global product engineering and digital services company, announces the launch of the 2nd edition of Tata Technologies InnoVent hackathon in collaboration with Microsoft and Tata Motors. This collaborative initiative aims to engage engineering students across India, providing them with a platform to showcase their creativity and innovations that address the challenges faced by the manufacturing industry. This year’s hackathon focuses on Generative AI-enabled innovations that deliver value across the product development value chain, including product engineering, manufacturing, and customer experience.

Tata Technologies will empower the top project team/s with the innovation tools and technologies needed to develop scalable innovations. The Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) from Tata Technologies will mentor and guide the top-performing project team/s to scale their projects. Microsoft will offer top team/s complimentary access to Azure resources and project mentoring through the Azure community, while Tata Motors will help define real-world challenges and support the commercialization of top projects. The hackathon is open to 3rd and 4th year engineering students across India and encourages inclusive participation, inviting entries from women engineers and differently-abled team members, thus reinforcing its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The evaluation process will consist of three stages: initial reviews, virtual Proof of Concept (PoC) presentations, and final demonstrations. Projects will be assessed based on diversity, novelty, feasibility, and impact. The top three winning teams will receive cumulative cash prizes worth INR 4.5 Lakhs, along with paid internship opportunities at Tata Technologies. More details of the InnoVent program is available at https://www.tatatechnologies.com/innovent/ and the last date for project submission Is 31st July 2024.

Reflecting on the 2nd edition of Tata Technologies InnoVent, Mr. Warren Harris, MD and CEO of Tata Technologies, stated, “Tata Technologies InnoVent embodies our commitment to engineering a better world for our youth. Through our collaboration with Microsoft and Tata Motors, we aim to provide young innovators with a platform to develop novel solutions leveraging Generative AI and help them translate their ideas to life. The 1st edition of InnoVent was a success and we are already piloting a few innovations with our customers. I am excited to see the innovative projects that will come from this year’s hackathon.”

Ms. Himani Agrawal, Country Head – Azure, Microsoft India and South Asia, commented on the collaboration, “Microsoft looks forward to collaborating with Tata Technologies for the InnoVent Hackathon, empowering the next generation of innovators. By providing a scalable Gen AI Azure environment and access to the wider Azure community, we aim to help students accelerate the development of their innovations. We look forward to the impact of this collaboration.”

Mr. Sven Patuschka, Chief Technology Officer, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd. and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd, remarked on the launch of the hackathon, “Generative AI is revolutionizing product design for enhanced customer experiences. We are excited to partner with Tata Technologies for the InnoVent Hackathon to foster innovations addressing real-world challenges. By mentoring and supporting promising projects, we aim to inspire future engineers to drive automotive innovation. I look forward to witnessing the pioneering solutions and meeting the finalists on Demo Day.”

Mr. Santosh Singh, EVP & Global Head of Marketing and Business Excellence of Tata Technologies, expressed his enthusiasm on the launch of InnoVent 2024, “InnoVent offers young engineering students a platform to leverage technology, upskill and innovate solutions that address some of the most pressing challenges in the manufacturing industry. This year’s focus on Generative AI highlights its transformative potential for the future of manufacturing and the importance of nurturing fresh ideas from young minds. We are particularly excited to see contributions from women and differently abled innovators, as this reflects our deep commitment to inclusivity and our efforts towards engineering a better world for all.”

Romance is an integral part of everyone’s lives, making the romantic genre in films one of the most popular. Not all on-screen couples can spell magic, but there are a few who become evergreen, often paired in multiple movies. These certain onscreen duos have captivated audiences with their chemistry and charm, whether through romantic pairings or comedic tandems. They have not only brought characters to life but also etched themselves into the hearts of viewers. Let’s take a delightful journey through the top 5 most-adored onscreen duos in the Gujarati entertainment industry, celebrating their memorable performances and the magic they create together on screen.

Malhar Thakar and Puja Joshi

Malhar Thakar and Puja Joshi dazzle as an enchanting on-screen pair in Gujarati cinema. Their chemistry in films like “Lagan Special” and “Veer – Isha Nu Seemant” has left a lasting impact on audiences. Whether portraying romantic leads or shining in ensemble casts, Malhar and Puja captivate with their effortless rapport and undeniable charm. Catch their latest film “Lagan Special” streaming on ShemarooMe, where their fabulous chemistry unfolds. If you haven’t already, tune into ShemarooMe now to experience their cinematic wonders.

Pratik Gandhi- Bhamini Oza.

Pratik Gandhi and Bhamini Oza have not only captivated audiences as an onscreen couple but also as a real-life couple. Their endearing chemistry has consistently won hearts, radiating immense positivity and love. Even after marriage, they continued their collaborative journey in films, collaborating on several projects. In films like “Bhavai” and “Shimmy,” their onscreen presence continues to resonate with audiences, showcasing their seamless blend of professional and personal camaraderie.

Hitu Kanodia and Mona Thiba

Hitu Kanodia and Mona Thiba epitomize on-screen chemistry in Gujarati cinema. Their real-life romance adds an extra layer of charm to their performances. Renowned for their seamless chemistry, they have starred in iconic films like “Sajan Tane Mara Sam,” “Vahurani,” “Mota Bha,” and “Janmdata.” Their ability to portray a range of emotions while maintaining a palpable connection on screen has made them inseparable.

Mamta Soni and Vikram Thakor

Mamta Soni and Vikram Thakor, the dynamic duo of the Gujarati film industry, shine with their scintillating onscreen chemistry. Their films like “Ek Vaar Piyu Ne Malva Aavje,” “Premi Jhukya Nathi Aney Jhukshe Nahi,” and “Maa Baapna Aashirwad” are box office hits, alongside standout performances in “Rasiya Tari Radha Rokani Rannma” and “Kaun Halave Limdi Ne Kaun Jhulave Peepli.” With their undeniable charm and script selection prowess, they continue to dominate Gujarati cinema, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting their next collaboration.

Yash Soni and Janki Bodiwala

Yash and Janki, known as one of the most endearing couples from ‘Chhello Divas’, starred together as Pooja and Nikhil, delivering a memorable romantic portrayal. Their song ‘Kehvu Ghanu’ became a smash hit, leaving fans clamouring for more. They also reunited in Krishnadev Yagnik’s film ‘Nandi Dosh’, where Raunaq Kamdar joined them on screen once again.

Mumbai – [19th June 2024] – Vishwa Samudra Engineering Pvt. Ltd. (VSE), India’s fastest growing infrastructure company with an order book of US$ 2.3 Bn, today appointed Mr. Harish Agrawal as President – Finance, Planning and Control. As part of its strategic advancement process, the VS group has not only been strengthening its key leadership positions but also its managerial positions ensuring a strong executive workforce across all group companies.

Mr. Agrawal brings with him an impressive background and a wealth of experience in Corporate Planning and MIS, Risk Management, Capital Raising and Structuring, Cash Flow Management, Credit Rating, Treasury Management and Stakeholder Management. Academically he has a Master’s in Management Studies (Finance), a Cost & Works Accountant (CWA) degree, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce. His work experience includes responsibilities such as developing reporting and control systems, budgeting and reporting, managing cash flows, debt raising, equity stake dilution, debt restructuring, credit rating exercises, and team building. He has worked in various industries including construction, infrastructure, airports, and media.

His illustrious career over 20 years includes successful tenures at renowned organizations such as JMC Projects Limited, GVK Airports, HCC Infrastructure Limited, Gammon Infrastructure Projects, HCC Infrastructure Limited, Kalpataru and Bennett Coleman & Company Limited. Speaking on this note, VSH Group Executive Director Mr. Shivdutt Das said, “Harish’s diverse experience across multilateral business groups is an asset that would help the VS Group to strengthen the finance pillar. As we step into newer realms of infrastructure domestically and internationally, his value add to the finance vertical will be unmatched.”

19th June 2024 – Swiggy, India’s pioneering on-demand convenience platform, has announced the launch of ‘Explore’—a new feature designed to elevate food discovery for users. Catering to the ever-present desire for ‘aaj kuch naya try karen?’, this feature addresses the common challenge faced by frequent users who feel constrained by their past orders or their familiarity with available options. With ‘Explore,’ users can broaden their culinary horizons, discovering new dishes and restaurants effortlessly.

The ‘Explore’ feature offers a range of personalized suggestions, from restaurants users have never tried to new cuisines and dishes that put a fresh spin on their favorites. Each recommendation is backed by reasons and social proof, making it easier for users to explore something different. The feature also highlights award-winning restaurants, legendary local restaurants and trending or most-ordered dishes, helping users uncover hidden gems and explore new culinary experiences.

Rohit Kapoor, CEO of Food Marketplace Swiggy, mentioned, “Swiggy has thousands of unique dishes on the platform, yet most users typically repeat the same 8-10 dishes. This isn’t because they’re not open to trying something new but because there hasn’t been a quick and relevant way to do so. The Explore feature introduces personalized options to users, offering a chance to discover a new dish, a new restaurant, or even a trending dish they may not have tasted before.”

While Explore is a good discovery avenue for users to find new restaurants, it provides an opportunity for restaurants to showcase their unique offerings as well. It also encourages them to experiment with new dishes and cuisines easily, attracting more customers and increasing their visibility. Sandhya Seshadri, owner of Choux Box Patisserie, shared her experience, “I was relying heavily on social media to get users to try my restaurant. Swiggy is helping us reach more customers via their Explore feature.”

Available through Swiggy’s food ordering page, users can now seamlessly navigate through a curated selection of legendary eateries, hidden gems, bestseller dishes in their area, and favorite cuisines from new restaurants.

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Bengaluru, June 18, 2024: Marvell, in collaboration with NGO partner United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), is driving an impactful intervention, ‘Rural Rising’, an integrated rural development program, in the Chikkaballapura District of Karnataka. The program is designed to meet the Mission Anthodya and Human Development Index (HDI) indicators, validated through an in-depth needs assessment in collaboration with local authorities and community members.

This intervention addresses fundamental needs across key thematic areas, including education, health and well-being, safe drinking water, and renewable energy in the Guluru Gram Panchayat.

Under the initiative, an ambulance is provided to Bagepalli Taluk Govt. Hospital, which caters to a catchment population of 1,20,000+ people and lacked a dedicated ambulance. Two new Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) have been constructed alongside the setting up of kitchen gardens and provisioning of Teaching and Learning Materials (TLMs) in the AWCs. Based on the need, a government school has been strengthened through refurbishment support, making the environment conducive to learning.

To address the need for a functional toilet facility, a new toilet has been constructed and an incinerator has been provided to a government school. Additionally, the initiative focuses on the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) component, particularly for raising awareness about menstrual health and hygiene among female students. Sanitary napkins have been distributed in five schools.

To ensure the availability of safe drinking water, three water purifier units have been installed in Anjinapura and Laxman Thanda villages, and at a government school, benefiting numerous households and students. In commitment to renewable energy, 150 solar streetlights have been successfully installed at strategic locations across the gram panchayat.

The intervention has reached over 5,285 direct beneficiaries and numerous indirect beneficiaries.

Today marked a significant day as key stakeholders involved in the initiative came together to officially announce the launch of the intervention. Key delegates present included Mr. Navin Bishnoi, Marvell India Country Manager, Ms. Bharathi Kanuj, Marvell India CSR Head and Mr. Ganesh Karnatakam, Marvell India Finance Controller, Sriram Ananthanarayanan UWBe Director or Projects, Varun Kumar UWBe Corporate Relations, Pravin Kumar UWBe Rural Projects Lead.

“Convergence and collaboration are key elements for achieving lasting effects. The Rural Rising initiative has demonstrated the power of bringing together Gram Panchayat, NGO, corporate and community members towards a shared goal,”, said, Mr. Navin Bishnoi, Marvell India Country Manager.

“Prioritising the need to invest in rural development, the Rural Rising program intends to build self-sustainable rural communities with assured access to quality education, better health and well-being, safe drinking water, and a clean environment. We are grateful to our CSR partner, Marvell, and the local community for supporting us since the inception of the program at Guluru Gram Panchayat.“, said, Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, of United Way Bengaluru.

About United Way Bengaluru (UWBe)

UWBe is an NGO focused on social issues that seek immediate and long-term attention. United Way Bengaluru marked a significant milestone this year as it completed its 15-year journey. As a part of the global network, United Way Worldwide, the largest network of non-profit organizations with 1,100 chapters in 37 countries, United Way Bengaluru carries a global image with a ‘local heart’ committed to creating meaningful change in the lives of the local communities. True to the organization’s mission “To improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world”, UWBe catalyzes unified efforts from corporates, civic bodies, and citizen associations to bring about visible and sustainable change in the lives of the communities. The organization works in four key areas – environment, education, healthcare, and rural development.

India, 18th June 2024: Swiggy Instamart, India’s pioneering quick commerce delivery platform, will now deliver an exciting range of toys from Hamleys, the best toy shop in the world, to consumers’ doorsteps in just 10 minutes. This partnership marks Hamley’s debut on quick commerce.

Customers across all metros will have access to Hamley products on Swiggy Instamart. This extensive collection includes action figures, arts and crafts, baby and toddler toys, board games, dolls, puzzles, musical toys, outdoor games, educational toys, soft toys, and toy vehicles and guns. With this diverse selection, there is something for every age group, ensuring that children (and adults) can find their perfect toy and enjoy endless hours of fun and learning. Since introducing toys as a category on Swiggy Instamart earlier this year, the platform has seen a 300x growth in orders.

With the addition of a brand like Hamleys, which brings marquee toys from brands like Disney, Mattel (Barbie), Kingdom of Play, Simba, Mattel Games, Paw Patrol, Hot Wheels, and Play-Doh, users will now be able to have premium quality toys delivered in minutes for the first time.

“We are incredibly excited to bring top-quality toys from a brand as iconic as Hamleys to customers through Swiggy Instamart,” said Phani Kishan Addepalli, CEO of Swiggy Instamart. “This combines Hamleys’ legacy of providing exceptional toys with Swiggy Instamart’s unparalleled convenience, delivered within minutes.” This initiative enhances convenience for parents and expands Swiggy Instamart’s product range, making it a one-stop shop for all household needs. Stay tuned as we bring joy and excitement to your doorstep with Hamleys, starting now.

Mumbai—18th June 2024: Amazon announces ‘Alexa Smart Home Days’ with up to 70% off on Echo smart speakers with Alexa, Alexa smart home combos, and over 1200 Alexa-compatible smart home devices from brands like Philips, Dyson, MI, Panasonic, Qubo, Wipro, Atomberg, CP Plus, TP-Link and Homemade. From smart lights, plugs, fans, and TVs, to security cameras, door locks, ACs, water heaters, and air purifiers, customers can shop from a wide range of Alexa-compatible devices on Amazon., from 15th June to 21st June 2024.

Customers in India are increasingly opting for Alexa in their daily routines to control their compatible smart home appliances. Through simple voice commands in English, Hindi, or Hinglish, like “Alexa, geyser चला दो”, “Alexa, turn off AC after 15 minutes”, or “Alexa, hall की lights dim कर दो”, they can seamlessly use a wide selection of smart home products that work with Alexa to make daily life more convenient.

During ‘Alexa Smart Home Days’, customers can avail exciting offers on a variety of smart home products and bring home the magic of voice control with Alexa by purchasing Echo smart speakers and Alexa smart home combos at great deals.

The offers will be available on Amazon.in from midnight on 15th June 2024 to 11:59 PM on 21st June 2024.

To shop, discover, and get started on your smart home journey, visit this page: https://amazon.in/smarthome

Grab Alexa smart home combos at discounted prices

· Flat 24% off on Alexa Smart Home combo – Echo Dot (5th Gen) + Wipro smart bulb. Get it for ₹5,799.

· Flat 39% off on Alexa Smart Home combo – Echo Pop + Wipro smart bulb. Get it for ₹4,299.

· Flat 16% off on Alexa Smart Home combo – Echo Dot (4th Gen) with Clock + Amazon smart plug. Get it for ₹6,298.

· Flat 16% off on Alexa Smart Home combo – Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen) + Wipro smart bulb. Get it for ₹9,299.

· Flat 31% off on Alexa Smart Home combo – Echo Pop + Amazon smart plug. Get it for ₹4,798.

· Flat 53% off on Alexa Smart Home combo – Echo Pop + Homemate touch switch. Get it at ₹5,097.

Enjoy great deals on Alexa-compatible smart home products

· Up to 60% off on smart home security camera and video doorbells from Qubo, CP Plus, Philips, and Wipro

· Up to 60% off on smart fans, IoT robovacuums and smart kitchen appliances from Atomberg, MI, and Philips

· Up to 70% off on smart plugs, smart door locks, switches from Wipro, Homemate, Qubo, and TP-Link

· Up to 65% off on smart bulbs, tube lights, panel lights from Wipro, Philips, and Crompton

· Up to 55% on smart ACs, refrigerators and geysers from Panasonic, Samsung, and Bajaj

Shop from a selection of smart products from other brands

· Up to 50% off on smart LED mirrors, toilets, and shower panels

· Up to 60% off on smart TVs from Sony, MI and OnePlus

· Up to 50% on car dashcams and GPS trackers

New Delhi, June 18, 2024: India’s most loved gadgets brand Portronics, launches the Bella 2, a sleek, all-in-one 15W wireless charging stand. Designed to simplify your charging routine, it boasts three induction charging pads for simultaneous multi-device charging and a configurable digital alarm clock for convenient access. Whether you’re tackling tasks at your desk or winding down for the night, our charger ensures your devices are always within reach and fully charged, keeping you connected and productive throughout the day.

Seamless Wireless Charging for Multiple Devices

The Bella 2 boasts three dedicated charging areas, making it an ideal solution to simultaneously power your smartphone, smartwatch, and TWS earbuds. The charging stand supports Qi-enabled devices, including Apple’s MagSafe-compatible iPhones (12 series onwards), for effortless wireless charging. Additionally, the base of the stand conveniently includes a standard 5-watt USB port. It provides additional charging options for another device.

Versatile and Adaptable

The Bella 2 is equipped with a configurable digital alarm clock, adding another layer of convenience to your daily routine. Featuring 4-level display brightness, the clock allows for customization based on your preferences. Dim the LED clock for a restful sleep or adjust the brightness for a distraction-free workspace. This personalized experience ensures optimal comfort.

Pricing & Availability:

The Portronics Bella 2 is available for purchase at an introductory the company’s official website, backed with a 12-month warranty. You can also find the product on Amazon.in and Flipkart.com, and other leading online and offline stores.

Surat, 18th 2024: BlueStone, one of India’s largest omnichannel jewellery brands, has accomplished a major milestone with the launch of its 200th store in Surat, Gujarat. This marks the brand’s first store in the city, centrally located at LP Savani, Surat and spans a massive area of 2,500 sq ft.

Speaking about the new store launch, Ms Rushina Shah, Business Development Head at BlueStone, said, “We are thrilled to celebrate the opening of our 200th store in Surat. This milestone highlights our commitment to providing an omnichannel experience. This store represents a step forward in our endeavour to offer Surat innovative designs for the modern consumer.”

BlueStone opened its first brick-and-mortar store in 2018 in New Delhi and has since expanded its retail presence across various states. The brand is now present in over 70 cities nationwide. In January 2023, the omnichannel brand launched its 150th store in Dimapur, Nagaland. Since then, BlueStone has expanded by opening 50 additional stores across India.

Headquartered in Bengaluru, BlueStone was incorporated in 2011, led by Gaurav Singh Kushwaha as the CEO. The brand is backed by funding from investors such as Nikhil Kamath, the Co-Founder of Zerodha, 360 One, InfoEdge Ventures, Accel Partners, Kalaari Capital, Saama Capital, Hero Enterprises and more.

BlueStone Company Profile:

BlueStone offers a wide range of jewellery options online across its app and website while also providing offline experiences at stores and a “Try At Home” service, delivering an omnichannel journey for customers. Their tech stack enables consumers to customise their purchases from design to delivery.

With wide-spread stores, BlueStone offers 100% certified jewellery designs ranging across gold, platinum, diamonds and gemstones.

BlueStone continues to innovate and expand its product offerings by launching newer designs, including customized smartwatch accessories that feature delicate chains with hanging charms, along with regular additions to its jewellery collections, providing customers with a diverse range of options.

BlueStone has also introduced schemes like the “Big Gold Upgrade” offer, providing higher carat value for their old gold, alongside the latest jewellery designs and a smooth, personalised jewellery shopping experience.

The company’s design and digital vision are backed by funding from investors such as Nikhil Kamath, 360One, InfoEdge Ventures, Accel Partners, Kalaari Capital, Saama Capital, Hero Enterprises and more. To learn more, visit www.BlueStone.com.

India-wide Release, 18Th June 2024: Ankush Bahuguna is on a mission to make his mark with every fashionable stride on international soil, making Indian hearts swell with pride. After becoming the talk of the tinsel town for his debut at the recently concluded Cannes Film Festival, Ankush Bahuguna’s next stop for the stylish sojourn was Milano Fashion Week Men’s Spring Summer. Ankush was seen dressed head-to-toe in luxury brands attending the fashion presentations that were carefully curated by Canali and Tod’s on the 16th of June.

On the 17th of June, Bahuguna dressed in Dhruv Kapoor joined the patrons in the audience to support Indian designers’ new collection.

Speaking excitedly about his debut at ‘Milano Fashion Week Men’s Spring Summer’ Ankush said, “Fashion has always been one of the best mediums of expression, and I always dreamt of witnessing the magic that the genius minds create through fabric. Milan Fashion Week provided me with an opportunity to widen my horizons and meet some extraordinary individuals from the design space. To be alongside patrons of luxury brands like Canali, Tod’s, and our very own Indian designer Dhruv Kapoor and to witness how they infuse mythical energy into contemporary fashion was cathartic. What I experienced earlier at Cannes and now in Milan has been nothing but surreal!”

The effervescent debut marks the third fashion milestone for the beauty content creator after the 77th Cannes Festival, where he created history with his unconventional fashion looks, making it into the pages of prestigious fashion magazines as the best dressed during the festival. He also made an ethereal/stunning runway debut at the Lakmé Fashion Week for Esha Amin in 2023.

Ankush Bahuguna has seamlessly made his foray into high-end fashion after making his mark in the beauty industry. He is the first content creator to have his make-up series on YouTube titled ‘Wing It With Ankush’, in association with Lakmé.

He has been conferred with several accolades for extending efforts to break the glass ceilings, including the Cosmopolitan Indian Blogger Awards for ‘Beauty Influencer of the Year Male (Popular Choice)’ for two consecutive years. Ankush also won the ‘Outstanding Beauty Creator of the Year Award at the Myntra x Grazia Glammy Awards 2023. Ankush Bahu guna’s fashion and style epitomize the changing landscape of male beauty and fashion in India, oozing the transformation through fashion and make-up at every grand stage, both domestic and global