Archives April 2025

An Unforgettable Culinary Experience to Ring in the Bengali New Year

To mark the joyous occasion of Poila Boishakh, The Astor Goa, a renowned five-star hotel in Candolim, is set to host gastronomical affair that brings the rich and diverse cultural recipes a  of Bengal to life. With a creative twist, this festival will feature an exceptional set menu that combines traditional Bengali flavours with influences from Anglo-Indian, Nawabi, Mughal, and European cuisines. 

Poila Boishakh, the Bengali New Year, is a time for families and friends to come together to celebrate life, prosperity, and the joy of good food.  The Astor Goa takes this festive spirit to the next level by offering a curated dining experience that blends the elegance of Bengal’s culinary heritage with the grandeur of Mughal and Nawabi kitchens, the refined tastes of Anglo-Indian cuisine, and the finesse of European techniques.

The specially designed set menu showcases both vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies, each prepared with the finest ingredients and executed with precision to elevate the rich history and complexity of Bengali cuisine. 

The menu features Hasher Mangsho kosha  and Shorshe Ilish, representing the grandeur of Nawabi Bengal and Murg Rezala (a creamy chicken stew) and Sheermal (a soft, sweet flatbread), which showcase the Mughal art of combining delicate spices and flavours for an unforgettable taste. Guests can also experience Anglo-Bengali fusion with dishes like Prawn Cutlets and Deviled Eggs, combining the best of British culinary influences with Bengali ingredients and spices. 

The Poila Boishakh Food Festival will run from 11th April – 16th April, inviting guests to enjoy a meticulously crafted culinary journey that celebrates the best of Bengali cuisine while embracing global influences. To complement the food, the restaurant’s ambiance will be transformed into a celebration of Bengali culture, featuring traditional decorations, soft Bengali music, and a welcoming atmosphere to create a memorable dining experience.

What: Poila Boishakh

When: 11th -16th April 2025, Lunch and Dinner 

Where: Deck88, The Astor Goa

India, April 09, 2025: Alcatel, the French consumer technology brand, today announced its strategic retail partnership with Flipkart, one of India’s leading e-commerce marketplaces. Through this collaboration, Alcatel will launch its latest range of smartphones on both Flipkart’s main platform and its quick commerce arm, FK Minutes.

This partnership emphasizes Alcatel’s commitment to democratizing technology and strengthening its footprint in the Indian market. The brand’s “Make in India” smartphones will combine premium innovation, stylish French design targeting digitally savvy consumers across metros, Tier II, and Tier III cities.

As part of its ongoing commitment to delivering patented, next-generation technology experiences to the Indian youth, Alcatel is combining its global innovation expertise with Flipkart’s extensive e-commerce network to introduce a new era of smartphones in India. With a digital-first approach, Alcatel is well-positioned to meet the dynamic needs of today’s tech-savvy consumers—especially the rapidly expanding youth segment across urban and non-urban regions. This strategic collaboration enables Alcatel to reach users nationwide and deliver cutting-edge technology that resonates with modern lifestyles.

Mr. Atul Vivek, Chief Business Officer, said:

As we chart our path forward, our vision is to build a complete ecosystem of products that deliver a truly connected and unified experience for Indian consumers. We are enthusiastic about our upcoming launches and the steady expansion of our footprint in the Indian market. This strategic partnership with Flipkart is instrumental in bringing that vision to life. Leveraging Flipkart’s expansive reach and deep market insights, we aim to offer high-quality products backed by a reliable, seamless after-sales service, ensuring an elevated consumer experience across the country.

Mr. Ansh Rathi, Chief Operating Officer, added:

We are proud to join hands with Flipkart to bring world-class quality and service to Indian consumers. This collaboration marks a significant step in elevating the smartphone experience by introducing feature-rich, premium devices at compelling price points. At Alcatel, our commitment lies in creating a seamless, connected ecosystem across devices and platforms. Guided by our core philosophy of delivering exceptional product experiences, we believe Flipkart’s vast network will help us build strong, meaningful connections with the youth across both urban and emerging markets in India.

Alcatel is committed to building a strong, nationwide service infrastructure to deliver fast, dependable support to consumers—no matter where they are in India. Looking ahead, the brand is set to expand its product portfolio with a vision to create a fully integrated consumer tech ecosystem. With a range of connected devices on the horizon, Alcatel aims to offer a seamless, elevated experience across multiple touchpoints in the lives of modern Indian consumers.

There’s something magical about the way our pets love us—unconditionally, joyfully, and without words. This International Pet Day, create something truly special for you and your furry friend at Pawfect Stitches, a hands-on Stitch-It-Yourself (SIY) workshop at The hab by Usha – a one-stop luxury boutique haberdashery and experience centre. Celebrate that special connection in the most personal way – by stitching a little piece of love for you and your furry companion.

Pawfect Stitches isn’t just a workshop; it’s a shared experience, a moment to slow down and create something meaningful. Over 2 immersive hours, you’ll stitch a matching outfit – a stylish tee for yourself and a charming bandana for your pet. No sewing experience? No problem! This session is about love, creativity, and making memories – not just stitches.

Date: Sunday, 13th April 2025
Time: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Location: The Hab by Usha, Khar (W)

Join fellow pet lovers in this heartwarming International Pet Day celebration and take home not just a handmade keepsake, but also a beautiful memory of time spent with your beloved companion. And yes, your ticket includes both you and your pet—as long as they promise to be on their best behavior .

This International Pet Day let’s celebrate love—the kind that comes with wagging tails, gentle purrs, and a bond that words can’t quite capture.

Hyderabad- 09, April, 2025: Finkeda, a leading digital banking and fintech solutions company announces its association with Gujarat Titans. Finkeda, also known as Ikeda, brings their financial expertise under this strategic partnership with Gujarat Titans, who has a proven streak in the high-octane cricket league. This adds to the vision of the Gujarat Titans in ensuring an all-round seamless experience to its growing global fan base.

The partnership is part of Gujarat Titans’ efforts to ramp up fan engagement initiatives with ease of access in mind. As an official partner, Finkeda will bolster efforts to bring financial innovation and convenience to tier 2, tier 3 and tier 4 cities. In reaching out to a wider audience through their association with Gujarat Titans, Finkeda aims to create greater awareness about their innovative digital banking solutions.

Colonel Arvinder Singh, COO of Gujarat Titans, said, “This association with Finkeda aligns with our larger goal of broadening avenues for seamless user experience. With their expertise in fintech and digital financial solutions, GT fans are up for some exciting new opportunities to know finances better. We are hopeful that this will add up to an enriching overall experience combined with the excitement of play.”

Mr. Manish Kumar Goyal, Chairman and Managing Director at Finkeda, said, “Gujarat Titans have shown the country and the world that it is possible to be a disruptor despite being new and competing with established players. It is a proud moment for all of us at Finkeda to be a sponsor of Gujarat Titans, a team that has created such a huge impact in such little time. We share their passion and motivation to win and believe that every individual and business, regardless of where they are located in India, deserve access to efficient and state-of-the-art fintech solutions.”

Since its inception in 2019, Finkeda has not only grown its user base, but has also expanded its operations to include digital payment solutions, cash withdrawal, Domestic Money Transfer, Aadhar Banking, Micro ATM, Utility Bill Payment, Travel and Insurance investments such as Mutual Funds, Non-convertible Debentures, P2P Lending, among others. Finkeda is a rapidly growing, one-stop destination for essential financial services and digital banking needs of urban as well as rural India.

Gujarat Titans’ growing popularity in the league is expected to give an increased visibility to Finkeda, which will bring it closer to its goal of educating consumers in far reaches of the country regarding the benefits of cutting-edge fintech services. This association is likely to help Finkeda penetrate previously untapped markets and drive greater levels of engagement with its target audience.

Kolkata, April 2025: Cautio, an AI-powered video telematics startup dedicated to making India’s roads the safest in the world, has raised ₹11 crore as part of its ongoing seed round. The round saw participation from 9Unicorns, Venture Catalysts, Antler India, Infynite.club, Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) through PIEDS – BITS Pilani and CARS24 Founders – Gajendra Jangid and Vikram Chopra. The raise also saw strong backing from early customers and industry leaders who believe in technology’s life-saving potential and Cautio’s mission.

 Every day in India, millions of families wait anxiously for their loved ones to return home safely. For commercial drivers, fleet operators, and logistics companies, road safety isn’t just a checkbox – it’s a matter of survival. Understanding the need of the hour, Cautio is on a mission to help reduce accidents proactively, prevent financial losses for fleet operators, and ensure everyone returns home safely.

 “We often hear about accidents and incidents, but what we don’t hear are the voices of those who suffer – families who lose their only breadwinner, children who wait for parents who never return, and drivers who are blamed for incidents beyond their control,” said Pranjal Nadhani, Co-founder & CTO at Cautio. “With AI-driven video telematics, we are changing this narrative. We are giving fleet operators, drivers, and passengers a chance to be safer, more responsible, and more accountable on the road,” added Pranjal.

 With its advanced video telematics platform, Cautio has enabled over 3 crore kilometers of safe travel and safeguarded 16 lakh+ trips, reducing risks, enhancing accountability, and optimizing operations. Trusted by top mobility and logistics providers like Shoffr, Euro Cars, Namma Yatri, IITs, Cityflo, etc., Cautio ensures safer and more efficient journeys daily. Operating in 35+ cities across India, Cautio has also delivered over 50 crore location data points through its APIs – thus equipping businesses with real-time insights for smarter, data-driven fleet management.

 “For fleet operators and drivers, every trip carries responsibility – not just for the safety of the passengers and the cargo but also for the lives of the drivers and the pedestrians on the road. With Cautio, we help them ensure that every journey is not just completed but completed safely,” added Ankit Acharya, Co-founder & CEO of Cautio.

 Dr. Apoorva Ranjan Sharma, Co-founder & Managing Director, 9Unicorns & Venture Catalyst said- “At 9Unicorns and Venture Catalyst, we believe in backing visionary startups that leverage technology to solve real-world challenges. Cautio is addressing one of India’s most pressing concerns – road safety – by integrating AI-powered video telematics into mobility solutions. Their approach has the potential to significantly reduce accidents, improve fleet efficiency, and save lives. We are excited to support their journey as they scale and bring safer roads to millions.”

 Nitin Sharma, Partner at Antler, emphasized the critical role of AI in transforming road safety: “As investors, we are excited to support founders like Ankit and Pranjal, who are leveraging cutting-edge AI to make road safety more accessible and cost-effective. Cautio goes beyond just data collection – it transforms insights into action, improving driver behavior, enhancing safety, and laying the foundation for autonomous mobility. Road safety in India is a massive challenge, with uncertainty and risk affecting millions daily. Cautio’s AI-driven technology empowers fleet operators and drivers to proactively take control of safety rather than merely react to accidents. We are proud to back their mission to make Indian roads safer.”

 Vikram Chopra and Gajendra Jangid, Co-Founders, CARS24, said: “Most tech chases efficiency. Cautio is chasing something harder, consequence. In India, road safety isn’t broken because we lack vehicles or infrastructure. It’s broken because accountability is invisible. Cautio’s AI makes it visible , in real time, where it actually changes how people drive. We believe this is a big lever for impact. At CARS24, we believe better drives lead to better lives. Cautio is building the kind of system that makes both possible. We are excited to see a (safer) road ahead.”

  Ankita Tandon and Joylita Saldanha – Founders, Infinyte Club said: “Cautio’s founders aren’t just building technology; they’re solving a massive infrastructure gap – making Indian roads safer with AI at the wheel. Their ability to blend video telematics, behavioral insights, and proactive safety measures is exactly the kind of purposeful innovation we love to back at Infinyte Club.”

 With this funding, Cautio aims to expand its technology across India, strengthen its AI capabilities, and work closely with fleets to build a culture of proactive safety. Every step taken towards preventing accidents today means fewer tragedies tomorrow – and that is the mission Cautio is dedicated to achieving

Hyderabad, April 8, 2025: The Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI) is set to host an interactive session with Dr. Jitender, Director General of Police, Telangana State, on April 9, 2025, at 3:30 PM at FTCCI’s Surana Auditorium.

The theme of the session is “Innovation for Better Vigilance and Public Safety.” This dialogue aims to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the business community by fostering collaborative approaches toward enhanced vigilance and public security.

Key Focus Areas:

•  Innovative vigilance mechanisms
• Technological interventions in modern policing
• Security challenges in today’s business environment
• Strengthening public-private sector collaboration

The session will be graced by Dr. Suresh Kumar Singhal, President, FTCCI, R. Ravi Kumar, Senior Vice President, K.K. Maheshwari, Vice President, and Ajay Kumar Agarwal, Chair – PR Committee, among other distinguished members.

This vital interaction is expected to bring valuable insights into evolving strategies for a safer and more secure society.

The groundbreaking study, which was published in Nature and involved Newcastle University, used a novel analytical technique to pinpoint the genetic foundation of uncommon diseases, potentially leading to more patient diagnoses and the creation of novel therapeutic interventions. Globally, between 4% and 6% of people suffer from rare diseases. Even after genome sequencing, up to 80% of persons with uncommon diseases go undetected due to a lack of knowledge about the genetic variants that could cause the condition, despite advancements in genetic testing.

 An international team of researchers has created rare variant gene burden analysis, an analytical framework for determining the genetic aetiology of Mendelian disorders (mutations in a single gene), to address the problem. The framework was then applied to 34,851 individuals and their family members’ genomic records (a total of 72,690 genomes) from Genomics England’s 100,000 Genomes Project.

 The study found genetic variations in 69 genes that were previously thought to be linked to rare diseases. In 30 of these instances, the innovative approach’s accuracy was confirmed by the new genetic discoveries being corroborated by pre-existing experimental data. The newly identified genetic variations for rare forms of diabetes, schizophrenia, epilepsy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) illness, and anterior segment ocular abnormalities were, crucially, backed by the strongest overall genetic and experimental data.

 John Sayer, Clinical Professor of Renal Medicine at Newcastle University and Consultant Nephrologist at The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, stated: “Newcastle has established itself as a global leader in rare disease research, continually advancing genomic medicine to identify new genetic causes and enhance diagnostic and treatment strategies for rare conditions. Our study demonstrates how we are harnessing the power of genetics to improve patient outcomes.”

 Recruitment of patients for the rare disease component of the Genomics England 100,000 Genomes Project was greatly aided by Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals.

 Neil Rajan, Professor of Dermatogenetics at Newcastle University and Consultant Dermatologist at Newcastle Hospitals, said: “For patients with rare diseases lacking a known genetic cause, this research highlights how large-scale national genome sequencing projects can provide crucial answers. The ‘diagnostic odyssey’ remains a significant challenge for the rare disease community, and identifying new genes is an essential step toward improving diagnosis and outcomes for these patients.”

 To find individuals who would benefit from the trial, Newcastle University’s established Rare Diseases Centre and expertise in genetics and clinical genomics were essential. The project team recruited patients and gathered a lot of clinical data by working directly with patients and their families.

 The study’s principal author, Damian Smedley, a professor of computational genomics at Queen Mary University of London, commented, “The 100,000 Genomes Project data has provided a singular chance to illustrate the clinical utility of extensive statistical techniques in rare illness research. Finding novel genetic connections and ending the diagnostic journey that many patients with rare diseases and their families must endure are made possible by this strategy.”

India, April 7, 2025: Apollo Hospitals today launched the fifth edition of its Health of the Nation 2025 (HoN-2025) report with a clear message: “Don’t wait for symptoms—make preventive health your priority.” Based on health screenings from over 2.5 million individuals across the Apollo ecosystem in India, the report reveals a silent epidemic—millions are living with undiagnosed chronic conditions despite showing no visible symptoms. Notably, 26% were found hypertensive and 23% diabetic despite being asymptomatic, underlining that a symptom-led healthcare model is no longer viable.

 Preventive health checks have grown exponentially as recorded by Apollo Hospitals, rising from 1 million in 2019 to over 2.5 million in 2024 — a 150% increase in just five years. This reflects a growing shift in public awareness and proactive engagement with preventive healthcare.

The insights in HoN 2025 are drawn from de-identified electronic medical records (EMRs of preventive health checks), structured clinical evaluations, and AI-driven risk stratification across Apollo’s hospitals, clinics, diagnostics labs, and wellness centers.

The report zeroes in on three urgent health challenges: fatty liver disease, post-menopausal health decline, and childhood obesity, emphasizing the need for early personalized interventions and lifestyle-based care models.

Dr. Prathap Reddy, Chairman, Apollo Hospitals said, “India must rise to the opportunity of creating healthy, happy families by placing health at the heart of every household. Preventive healthcare is no longer a future ambition—it is the cornerstone of a nation’s well-being today. This report affirms our collective responsibility to act early, screen deeply, and empower every citizen with knowledge and access. It is time to integrate preventive care into every educational curriculum, corporate benefits, and family routines. Only then, can we shift from treating illness to preserving health and ensure a resilient, healthier India for generations to come.”

Dr. Suneeta Reddy, Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals added, “The Health of the Nation Report reaffirms Apollo’s long-standing philosophy that the future of healthcare is early, data-led, and personalized. When 66% of people screened have fatty liver, 85% of them being non-alcoholic; it signals the urgency for new diagnostics and early detection at scale. Traditional screening is no longer enough. Apollo’s ProHealth program is not just empowering individuals to take control of their health; it is laying the foundation for scalable and predictive healthcare. The results from ProHealth show that with consistent follow-up and nudges and real-time data, we can create measurable population-level impact. Prevention is India’s most scalable healthcare solution and Apollo’s mission is to democratize preventive health.” 

Key Findings at a Glance

 Hidden Disease, Visible Numbers: Fatty Liver as India’s New Metabolic Signal

Once seen as a concern only for those who consumed alcohol, fatty liver appears to emerge as an important health issue linked to obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Of the 257,199 individuals screened, a staggering 65% had fatty liver, and 85% of those were non-alcoholic. More than half had normal blood tests—meaning traditional diagnostics alone are not enough for a thorough evaluation.

 Women’s Health: A Critical Turning Point Post-Menopause

The HoN 2025 report highlights a dramatic escalation in health risks for women post-menopause. Diabetes rates spike from 14% pre-menopause to 40% post-menopause, obesity climbs sharply from 76% to 86%, and fatty liver prevalence rises from 54% to 70%. These significant shifts underline hormonal changes’ profound impact on women’s long-term health, emphasizing the necessity for proactive, personalized health strategies for women as they approach menopause.

 Rising Cases of Obesity in Kids’: The Truth We Can’t Ignore Anymore!

Obesity among students is rising rapidly, posing serious long-term health threats. The report found that 8% of primary school students were already overweight or obese—an early indicator. This prevalence increases significantly through adolescence, reaching 28% among college students, highlighting the compounding impact of lifestyle and dietary changes. Additionally, 19% of college students were found to be pre-hypertensive, showing that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are taking root much earlier than previously recognized.

 Dr. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson, Apollo Hospitals said, “The Health of the Nation 2025 report highlights the critical issues that we must address, particularly regarding women’s health and childhood obesity. The rise in metabolic risks post-menopause is a clear indicator that we need more than just routine screenings. It is essential to have age-appropriate, gender-sensitive protocols that can truly address the unique needs of women. At Apollo, we are committed to integrating these findings into a life-stage-based care model, offering support for women at every phase of their health journey. The report also underscores the increasing rates of obesity and pre-hypertension among children, which is deeply concerning. These are not just statistics but signs that we must act swiftly. As a pioneering institution, Apollo is determined to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities across the nation.”

 Beyond the Obvious: A Deeper Look at India’s Evolving Health Landscape

 Hypertension: A Quiet but Persistent Risk

Screening around 450000 individuals in 2024 revealed that 26% were hypertensive, often without any symptoms. Hypertension continues to be a key contributor to India’s cardiovascular burden and remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. The report calls for standardized blood pressure monitoring and public health campaigns that make BP check a routine part of wellness.

 Heart Disease Hiding in Plain Sight

Among asymptomatic individuals who underwent coronary calcium scoring, 46% had calcium deposits, which are early signs of atherosclerosis. Of these, 25% had obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). Even more striking, 2.5% of those with calcium deposits were under the age of 40. These figures reinforce the importance of advanced imaging techniques like calcium scoring and CT angiography for detecting early risk.

 Mental Health: A Growing but Under-Recognized Challenge

Mental health has long lingered in the shadows of India’s public health conversation, but the latest data shines a much-needed spotlight. Of the 47,424 individuals screened for depression using the PHQ-9 scale, 7% of women and 5% of men exhibited signs of clinical depression, with the burden peaking in the middle-age bracket (40–55). These figures highlight not just a growing prevalence but also the deep societal stigma that continues to hinder early intervention. Apollo Hospitals is advocating for integrated mental health assessments in routine check-ups, wider use of digital mental health platforms, and community-level awareness to foster openness and timely care.

 Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The Sleep Disorder India Can’t Ignore

The Health of the Nation 2025 report reveals a startling trend: 1 in 4 Indians are at high risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)—a disorder closely linked to obesity, cardiovascular disease, and daytime fatigue. Based on screenings of 53,000 individuals, 33% of men and 10% of women were identified as high-risk. Risk levels rise sharply with age, affecting 68% of men and 22% of women over 55. Despite its high prevalence, OSA remains underdiagnosed, often mistaken for general fatigue or stress. Apollo is calling for routine sleep risk assessments in metabolic screenings, stronger public awareness about OSA symptoms, and workplace wellness programs that address sleep hygiene as a core pillar of preventive care.

 Cancer Detection: Age Trends Offer New Insights

In 2024, the median age for cervical cancer diagnosis was 49, for breast cancer 57, and lung cancer 61—a full decade earlier than global averages. The report advocates lowering the age threshold for routine screening and driving awareness in urban and rural populations alike.

 Micronutrient Deficiencies: A Foundation Health Issue

Anemia affected 45% of women and 26% of men, while Vitamin D deficiency impacted 77% of women and 82% of men. Vitamin B12 deficiency was also significant, with 38% of men and 27% of women showing low levels. Among those under 40, the deficiency was even more pronounced—49% of men and 35% of women were vitamin B12 deficient. These gaps, if left unaddressed, can impair energy, cognition, and metabolic function. Apollo recommends widespread education as an essential first step towards improving national nutrition and long-term health.

 Obesity and Metabolic Dysfunction: The Cascade Continues

The report highlights that 61% of individuals screened were obese, with another 18% overweight. Obesity continues to act as the root cause of a range of NCDs. Apollo supports expanding physical literacy in schools and workplaces and making BMI and metabolic screenings part of every annual health check.

 Aim Toward a Preventive, Data-Led Healthcare System

Apollo Hospitals’ ProHealth program aims to advocate for a paradigm shift in India’s healthcare approach—from curative to preventive, and from symptom-led to data-driven. The organization’s ProHealth program has been setting the precedence and proven its effectiveness by integrating advanced diagnostics, expert doctor driven path to wellness, AI-powered predictive risk scores, personalized health nudges, and early interventions. The program tracks key health metrics in real time and provides actionable recommendations tailored to each individual, enabling proactive management of chronic conditions.

• 59% of diabetics reduced HbA1C levels
• 51% of hypertensive participants lowered their blood pressure
• 47% of overweight participants achieved weight loss

By addressing health risks early and guiding individuals with personalized interventions, the program aims to reduce the progression of diseases before they require complex treatment. Overall, the findings of HoN-2025 build a strong case for embedding preventive healthcare into public health policy, health insurance coverage, and workplace wellness. The way forward lies in early risk identification, lifestyle modification, and equitable access to diagnostics.

 State-wise microcosm representation based on screenings conducted across Apollo Hospitals over the past year.

Ahmedabad

• Vitamin D Deficiency: 81% of individuals screened had low Vitamin D levels—raising long-term concerns for bone, immune, and metabolic health.
• Obesity: 54% were found to be obese, highlighting the need for better physical activity and nutrition engagement.
• Hypertension: 24% diagnosed with hypertension; 52% are pre-hypertensive.
• Diabetes: 17% are diabetic and 36% pre-diabetic, signaling early metabolic dysfunction.

8th, April, 2025: Mila Beauté, a homegrown Indian skin-friendly color cosmetics brand, has raised $2.16 million (approximately ₹18 crores) in its Pre-Series A funding round led by Rukam Capital. This investment values the company at ₹303 crore and marks a significant step forward in its journey to build a vertically integrated, Made-in-India beauty brand.

The freshly infused capital will primarily be deployed towards expansion and research & development. Mila Beauté aims to strengthen its core business in the color cosmetics segment while also investing in new product development, scaling operations, and deepening its market presence. A significant portion of the funds will go into upgrading its manufacturing capabilities, focusing on maintaining high product quality with minimal external dependencies.

Founded with a vision to create a truly Indian beauty brand, Mila Beauté has taken a distinctive approach by keeping its operations vertically integrated and minimising reliance on imports. This has not only ensured superior control over product quality but also aligned well with the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Founders Saahil Nayar, Sachin Chadha and Keshav Chadha, Mila Beauté, said, “Our focus has always been on creating a beauty brand that’s not just trend-driven but deeply rooted in data and consumer insight. Today’s Indian consumers are discerning, and we believe they deserve products that are both high-quality and homegrown. Partnering with Rukam Capital gives us the strategic backing to scale faster, whether it’s investing in our own manufacturing, developing innovative skin friendly products, or strengthening our brand presence. Most importantly, it allows us to stay closely connected to our consumers while ensuring we never compromise on quality or our vision.”

Archana Jahagirdar Rukam Capital said, “ The Indian beauty and cosmetics industry is at a fascinating juncture, with consumers increasingly seeking products tailored to the evolving needs of the modern audience. Mila Beauté stands out with its research-driven approach, prioritizing skincare and superior quality, set to redefine the beauty experience in the years ahead. The company’s vision, the founder’s leadership, and its commitment to innovation make it a compelling opportunity for us at Rukam Capital to support this dynamic segment. We are thrilled to be part of Mila Beauté’s growth journey and to contribute to its exciting future.”

Currently clocking annual revenues of $7.23 million, Mila Beauté is targeting a 2x growth in the next 12–18 months. The team remains focused on operational excellence and brand building without any immediate plans for acquisitions or leadership changes. With this funding, Mila Beauté is well-positioned to accelerate its expansion and continue developing high-quality, innovative Indian skin friendly color cosmetic products for the Indian market.

Gallerie Ganesha is set to host “Lyrical Landscapes: Watercolours by Bikash Poddar” from April 4th to May 7th, 2025 at E-557, Greater Kailash II, New Delhi. This exhibition will showcase the evocative watercolour landscapes of Bikash Poddar, a distinguished artist from Bengal renowned for his harmonious blend of natural scenery and human figures
Born in 1954 in Kaliyaganj, North Bengal, Poddar pursued his studies at the College of Art and Craft in Kolkata, earning a diploma in Applied Art with a gold medal. After a successful career in advertising, he transitioned to full-time painting in the 1990s, gaining acclaim through exhibitions in Delhi, Mumbai, and internationally.

Poddar’s artistry is characterized by the fusion of Indian miniature art’s intricate detailing with the fluidity of Chinese and Japanese calligraphy techniques. His landscapes often depict serene rural scenes—ruined temples, weathered habitations, boats by the waterside—imbued with a translucent glow and meticulous architectural elements. This synthesis captures the essence of nature and human presence in a delicate balance.

Employing the wash technique, Poddar paints on wet paper, allowing colors to blend seamlessly and create ethereal atmospheres. This method demands swift execution, as the water dries quickly, challenging the artist to complete his vision within a limited timeframe

The upcoming “Lyrical Landscapes” exhibition is an immersive experience into Poddar’s artistic vision.