Archives May 2025

Viva, Asia’s largest manufacturer and supplier of Metal Composite Panels (MCP), has strengthened its presence in North India with the launch of a new Experience Centre in Kaithal, Haryana. Located at Opp. Gali No. 6, Rishi Nagar, Kurukshetra Road, Kaithal, this centre is designed to offer architects, interior designers, and builders a comprehensive insight into Viva’s pioneering cladding solutions.

The inauguration was graced by Mr. Prakash Jain, Chairman and Managing Director of Viva Composite Panel Pvt. Ltd., and Mr. Nitin Jain, Director of Viva Composite Panel Pvt. Ltd. With the launch of this centre, Viva continues to extend its footprint across India, reinforcing its mission to deliver cutting-edge, high-performance, and sustainable cladding solutions tailored to diverse architectural landscapes.

Speaking at the opening, Mr. Prakash Jain, shared, “Kaithal is a growing hub with immense potential in infrastructure and design. With this new Experience Centre, we aim to provide a space where professionals and customers can truly engage with our products and understand their wide-ranging applications. It reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence.”

Mr. Nitin Jain, added, “This Experience Centre in Kaithal is yet another step towards making Viva’s world-class products easily accessible to the design and construction community in Haryana. We envision this centre becoming a collaborative hub for creative dialogue and discovery, enabling industry professionals to achieve exceptional results in their projects.”

The Viva Kaithal Experience Centre features the brand’s signature series such as Santa Fe, Tarnish Metallum, Natural Stone, Alu Zinto, El Zinc, Lustre, and De Madera. In addition, the newly introduced Louvers and Solid X Series are also on display, emphasizing Viva’s commitment to innovation and trendsetting design.

With its latest expansion into Kaithal, Viva ACP continues to cement its leadership in the cladding industry, providing a dedicated space for professionals to experience its wide-ranging offerings and foster inspiration for contemporary architectural expression.

Mumbai, 23rd  May, 2025:  Stockal one of India’s pioneering cross-border investing platforms is transforming itself into a new avatar to enable it to take on a US$25 billion a year market opportunity that comes from serving the global aspirations of the wealthy across emerging markets. Borderless is launching multi-currency banking and payments products.  The venture announced that it has received Rs. 20 crore in bridge funding from new and existing investors to lay the foundation for this ambitious thrust. Discussions on a Series B raise of Rs.120 crore to take the expanded offering to market, are ongoing. The round was led by an investor syndicate of Equirus Credence Family Office and also saw participation from July Ventures and others.

Sitashwa Srivastava, Founder & CEO, Borderless

Mitesh Shah, MD & CEO, Equirus Credence Family Office, said, “We’ve tracked Borderless for the last 4-5 years and have been closely involved as partners. Their evolution from an cross-border investing platform to a more holistic financial player is something that we have been very excited about. Their new products are category-defining and their early successes in markets like Africa and Middle East are super encouraging. Very happy to be an enabler in their growth as they scale over the next 5 years.

According to Sitashwa Srivastava, Founder & CEO, Borderless, “The more we engaged our affluent customers in emerging markets, the more we realized that their global aspirations extended beyond cross-border investing and included travel, education & healthcare, etc. The opportunity to help them save, invest and pay for a more fundamentally global lifestyle is worth about US$25 billion a year emerging markets globally. Last few months we invested heavily in building a platform that will allow them to “save” as well as “invest” including getting the regulatory part right. Am truly excited about the next phase of our journey as Borderless, a name which truly aligns and connotes what we intend to offer and the aspirations of those whom we address.”

Commenting on their participation in the bridge round, Ravi Krishnappa, Partner, July Ventures,” Sitashwa and the team at Borderless have stayed sharply focused on execution and built a solid foundation—with an inbuilt moat driven by product depth and customer engagement. Their pivot to a broader platform taps into the growing demand from affluent consumers in emerging markets looking to engage globally. It opens up meaningful revenue opportunities and positions them for scalable, profitable growth. We’re glad to continue backing them as they scale.”

“The new expanded platform is not good just from the perspective of end customers but even for players in the wealth management, investing and the overall fintech ecosystem who now can add more value to their customers 

by leveraging the Borderless platform. For us it means wider universe of partners to tap into making it a win-win. We thank our existing investors for their continued faith in me and the team. Look forward to together building a large, globally scaled venture in this space out of India,” Sitashwa further added.

As temperatures soar across India, the search for the perfect summer beverage often leads to short-term relief and long-term compromise. But Forever Living Products India, a global pioneer in aloe vera-based wellness and personal care, is inviting consumers to embrace a more meaningful, sustainable way to stay hydrated with a legacy of natural immunity booster drinks as refreshing as its aloe vera health drink.

With operations in over 160 countries and more than four decades of innovation, Forever Living is more than a wellness brand. It’s a movement rooted in ethical sourcing, science-backed formulations, and a deep respect for nature. From the leaf to the bottle, Forever controls every step of production, ensuring quality, sustainability, and transparency in everything it creates.

As the largest grower and manufacturer of aloe vera and aloe vera-based products in the world, Forever Living brings the nourishing benefits of aloe vera in its most authentic form to people in over 140 countries. The company grows more than 40 million aloe plants across more than 7,500 acres, yielding an impressive 8 million gallons of aloe vera gel each year. Its aloe plantations, located in the Dominican Republic, are organically certified by both the USDA and the EU, underscoring Forever’s commitment to purity and environmental stewardship.

This summer, Forever is putting its aloe legacy in the hands of Indian consumers with seasonal wellness drinks designed for both taste and health: Forever Aloe Vera Gel, Forever Aloe Berry Nectar, Forever Aloe Mango, and Forever Aloe Peaches. Each beverage is crafted with over 84% stabilized aloe vera gel, carefully extracted from Forever’s own organic farms. Blended with real fruit concentrates and free from added preservatives, these drinks are not only delicious but also nutrient-dense packed with antioxidants and immunity-boosting vitamins.

• Forever Living aloe vera juice

The original, unflavoured wellness drink with over 99.7% pure inner leaf aloe vera gel. A clean, refreshing way to support your daily routine and healthy lifestyle.

• Forever Aloe Berry Nectar
  A tangy blend of cranberry and apple juices combined with aloe vera gel. A vibrant and fruity option for those who enjoy bold, natural flavors.
• Forever Aloe Mango
  A tropical twist featuring 86% aloe vera gel and real mango purée. Bursting with flavor and a source of vitamin C, it’s a refreshing drink to brighten your day.
• Forever Aloe Peaches
  A lighter, fruit-forward blend of peach and grape juice paired with aloe vera gel. Smooth, mellow, and perfect for the whole family to enjoy daily.

“Our aloe drinks are more than just refreshments they’re a commitment to conscious, clean living,” says Harish Singla, CSM, Forever Living Products India. “We wanted to offer Indian consumers something that feels good, tastes great, and reflects our ethos of sustainability and wellness. These drinks are the perfect way to sip into summer guilt-free.”

Forever Living’s vertically integrated model spanning from its own aloe fields to in-house manufacturing and global distribution, ensures complete traceability, consistent quality, and a strong commitment to sustainability. Its aloe plantations, grown using eco-conscious practices, contribute to carbon absorption and help reduce the overall environmental impact, making Forever’s approach a natural part of a more climate-conscious future.

“We believe that true wellness must begin at the root both literally and ethically,” adds Singla. “By controlling every step of the process, we protect the potency of our aloe and the planet at the same time.”

Founded in 1978, Forever Living has championed aloe vera as a global wellness powerhouse, offering a portfolio of personal care, beauty, and nutrition products trusted by millions. Today, it continues to evolve while staying grounded in its founding principles purity, performance, and people-first values.

Whether it’s through a summer drink or a skin-care solution, Forever Living Products India is redefining what it means to be a modern, mindful wellness brand one bottle, one home, one lifestyle at a time.

Commenting on his collaboration for the campaign, Sabyasachi Mishra said, “I feel honoured to represent the rich traditions of Odisha in this excellent brand campaign of Malabar Gold & Diamonds. Gold holds a special place in every Odia home—it’s part of our blessings, our prayers, our precious moments in life. While emphasizing the brand’s philosophy of transparency and ethical craftsmanship, the campaign which is deeply rooted into our cultural ethos will definitely resonate with the Odia community in the state and beyond.’’

Commenting on the campaign, MP Ahammed, Chairman, Malabar Group said, “The brand campaign is a tribute to Odisha known for its supreme cultural and artistic heritage. Sabyasachi Mishra is a natural choice for us for this campaign, as his enduring appeal among the people of Odisha and the values he stands for reflects our commitment to purity and trust. This campaign beautifully captures the journey of life’s most treasured moments, and with Sabyasachi leading the narrative, we are proud to honour Odisha’s traditions.”

New Delhi, May 23, 2025: Portronics, a trusted name in smart accessories and consumer electronics, has introduced two new wired earphones – Conch Kappa and Conch Kappa C. These additions to the Conch series are built to meet everyday audio needs, giving you the precision and clear results you look for. They offer a comfortable in-ear fit, clear sound, and reliable build quality, whether you’re using a 3.5mm or Type-C-enabled device.

Conch Kappa: For Devices with 3.5mm Jack

The Conch Kappa is built for users relying on the classic 3.5mm headphone jack. It features 14.2mm dynamic drivers that produce clear sound with a punch of bass, making it suitable for music, calls, or videos.

The earphones come with an in-line microphone and multifunction button, allowing users to take calls and control music without reaching for their device. The TPE cable helps avoid tangling and adds to the product’s durability. Designed with comfort in mind, the earbuds offer a snug fit that works well even during longer listening sessions.

Conch Kappa C: Made for Type-C Devices

The Conch Kappa C is designed for newer smartphones and tablets that use a USB Type-C port. It brings the same 14.2mm driver size and sound output as its 3.5mm counterpart, ensuring a consistent experience across both models.

It also features an in-line mic and control button, a TPE anti-tangle cable, and a comfortable earbud design that sits securely in the ear. Whether you’re attending a meeting, watching a show, or on the move, the Conch Kappa C offers a practical audio solution without the need for dongles or adapters.

The atmosphere on the set of Shemaroo Umang’s Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain is buzzing with excitement as the show joyfully celebrates the completion of 100 episodes! A fresh and unique story at the core, it quickly won over the hearts of viewers. Now, everyone—from the cast to the crew is coming together to mark this special milestone with happiness and warm emotions.

The show breaks away from the usual saas-bahu drama and tells the story of two strong women—Chamkili, the clever and ambitious jethani who started as a house-help and now aims to control the entire haveli, and Chaina, the simple but smart devrani, who entered the haveli as the Chhoti Thakurain, to save the haveli and keep her family together.

Diksha Dhami, the lead actress playing Chaina, shared warmly, “My journey in Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain has been very interesting. From disliking Jaiveer to falling in love with him, to transitioning from Chaina to Raseeli, the whole experience has been amazing. I’m so grateful the audience has connected with the jugaadu nature of Chaina. Completing 100 episodes fills me with so much happiness and pride. This milestone is the result of Everyone’s hard work—actors, spot boys, and the entire crew—I’ve learned a lot along the way and feel truly thankful. Thank you for being part of this journey—we’re excited.

Actor Sheel Verma, who plays Jaiveer, expressed his excitement, saying, “What began with a bunch of strangers five months ago has now turned into one big family. We spend so much time together on the set, and it truly feels like home. Hitting the 100-episode mark is a huge moment for all of us! This show not only gave me a character like Jaiveer but also gifted me some unforgettable memories—especially my Pushpa makeover! I’m also lucky to have mentors like Raghuveer sir and Dilip sir, who’ve learned so much from them. I hope this is just the beginning—there’s a long way to go and many more milestones to cross.”

Actress Ishita Ganguly, who plays the fiery Chamkili, added, “Chamkili jab chamakti hai na, toh acche-acchon ke bulb fuse ho jaate hain! And it looks like Chamkili ki Chamak has truly reached the audience’s hearts—here we are celebrating 100 episodes! Honestly, it feels surreal. I remember the early days, the mock shoot, script readings, and those chilly shoots in Rajasthan, and now look how. I’m genuinely grateful to be part of this amazing team, and Shemaroo Umang for making this journey so special.

With strong characters and a gripping story, Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain keeps audiences hooked. Catch the show every Monday to Saturday at 9:00 PM, only on Shemaroo Umang.

New Delhi, 23 May 2025 – Holiday Inn New Delhi Mayur Vihar Noida proudly announces the unveiling of its newly renovated rooms, designed to seamlessly blend elegance, innovation, and sustainable comfort for today’s conscious traveller.

The renovation introduces a fresh, modern aesthetic paired with eco-conscious design principles and advanced in-room technologies. Highlights of the upgrades include Premium Belgian Hardwood Flooring – Among the finest in its class, this flooring adds a timeless appeal and elevates the room’s overall ambiance. Eco-Friendly Fixtures – Water and energy-saving taps and showers that align with our commitment to sustainability. Next-Gen Climate Control – BLDC (Brushless Direct Current) motor technology in air-conditioning systems for optimal comfort and reduced carbon footprint. Complete MEP Overhaul – Fully upgraded Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing infrastructure for enhanced operational efficiency and guest safety. Elegant Colour Tones – Sophisticated, calming hues used throughout the room and bathroom to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

“Every aspect of the redesign was guided by a vision to elevate the guest experience while remaining mindful of our environmental impact. These new rooms reflect our promise to deliver sophisticated stays that are both smart and sustainable.” – said Anurag Rai, General Manager.

With contemporary interiors, smart in-room features, and a commitment to sustainable hospitality, these renovations represent a thoughtful upgrade in the hotel’s ongoing pursuit of guest comfort and efficiency.

Choosing the right health insurance for your parents is an important step toward safeguarding their health and financial security. With age-related risks and rising medical costs, the right plan can ensure access to quality care without straining your savings. 

This blog will help you understand key factors to consider when selecting health insurance tailored to your parents’ unique needs.

Ways to Select the Correct Health Insurance Plan for Your Parents

Choosing the right health insurance plan for your parents involves evaluating their medical needs, coverage options, and long-term financial protection. Let’s discuss a few:

Understand Your Parents’ Health Needs and Medical History

Health insurance decisions should begin with clearly understanding your parents’ health profile.

1. Review Past Medical Records

• Examine any chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease.
• Take note of past surgeries, hospitalisations, and regular medications.

2. Consider Lifestyle and Age Factors

• Assess their lifestyle, dietary habits, and physical activity levels.
• Older age often comes with higher health risks, so choose a plan that anticipates future medical needs.

By starting with their medical history, you can shortlist medical insurance for parents with relevant disease coverage and regular health check-ups.

Compare Types of Health Insurance Plans for Seniors

Multiple plans are available in the market, but not all are suited for senior citizens.

1. Individual vs. Family Floater Plans

• Individual Plans: More suitable for parents above 60, as they offer a dedicated sum insured.
• Family Floater Plans: May not be cost-effective if parents are much older than other family members covered.

2. Senior Citizen Health Insurance Plans

• Specifically designed for individuals above 60 years.
• Offer benefits like higher coverage limits, annual health check-ups, and domiciliary treatment.

3. Critical Illness Plans

• Covers life-threatening diseases like cancer, kidney failure, and stroke.
• Useful as a supplementary plan for high-cost treatments.

Comparing options ensures you pick the right health insurance that balances coverage and affordability for your parents.

Check for Coverage Benefits, Exclusions, and Waiting Periods

Not all policies are created equal. Focus on the fine print.

1. Key Coverage Inclusions

• Pre and Post-Hospitalisation: Should cover expenses before and after hospital stays.
• Day Care Procedures: Many treatments today don’t require long hospitalisation.
• AYUSH Benefits: Some policies also cover alternative treatments, such as Ayurveda or Homoeopathy.

2. Common Exclusions

• Pre-existing diseases may not be covered from day one.
• Specific illnesses might be excluded for the first few years.
• Cosmetic procedures and dental treatments are often not covered.

3. Waiting Periods

• Most medical insurance for parents includes a waiting period for pre-existing diseases.
• Choose plans with shorter waiting periods or offering instant coverage on declaration.

These details help prevent surprises during a claim and ensure a seamless experience when choosing health insurance for parents.

Evaluate the Insurer’s Network Hospitals and Claim Process

A good policy is not just about coverage, but also about convenience.

1. Check Network Hospitals

• Choose a provider with a wide hospital network, especially near your parents’ residence.
• Look for hospitals offering cashless treatments.

2. Understand the Claim Settlement Ratio

• A higher claim settlement ratio indicates a more reliable insurer.
• Prefer insurers with a hassle-free documentation process.

3. Ease of Reimbursement and Cashless Claims

• Confirm how fast reimbursements are processed.
• Ensure cashless procedures are actually honoured by hospitals in the network.

This ensures your parents receive timely medical attention without financial stress.

Consider Premium Affordability and Policy Renewability

Choosing the best medical insurance for parents also requires a financial perspective.

1. Premium vs. Coverage Balance

• Don’t always go for the cheapest policy; consider value for money.
• Check for premium hikes on policy renewals.

2. Lifetime Renewability Option

• Opt for health insurance plans that offer lifetime renewability.
• This ensures continued coverage without buying new insurance after a certain age.

3. Discounts and Co-Payment Options

• Some insurers offer discounts for multi-year policies.
• Co-payment clauses, where the insured pays a portion of the bill, lower premiums but may reduce affordability during emergencies.

Balancing cost and coverage helps you choose a sustainable and effective plan over time.

Don’t Overlook Add-Ons and Value-Added Services

1. Why Add-Ons Matter

• Add-ons like room rent waiver, hospital cash, and OPD cover can enhance your parents’ health insurance benefits.
• Some insurers offer health check-ups, wellness programs, or teleconsultation services at no extra cost.

2. Tailored Riders for Seniors

• Look for riders like critical illness, personal accident cover, or home care services.
• These additions can fill crucial gaps in standard medical insurance for parents.

Add-ons and extra services offer more holistic protection and make health insurance more effective for long-term use.

Choosing the right health insurance for your parents is a long-term commitment that impacts both their well-being and your peace of mind. You can make a confident decision by carefully assessing your health needs, comparing plans, and reviewing key features like coverage, the claim process, and renewability. 

A thoughtfully selected medical insurance for parents ensures they receive timely care without financial stress, securing their health today and in the future.

Blum India gave home and design lovers in Hyderabad another reason to smile — the launch of a brand-new Blum Experience Centre in partnership with Hyderabad Hardware located in Sri Nagar Colony, the new space is a tactile invitation into the world of smooth living — where hinges glide, drawers float, and everything just works.

The Experience Centre was inaugurated by Nadeem Patni, Managing Director, Blum India and store owner Pavan Kumar Kanodia.

Nadeem said: “This is Blum’s second experience centre in Hyderabad—and we are extremely happy to expand our reach in the city, offering our customers another avenue to experience the quality of living that Blum offers. I also want to thank Hyderabad Hardware for joining forces with us.”

Kanodia added, “Hyderabad is buzzing with potential. This new centre brings global quality closer to home — and helps our clients experience a new way of living, where form and function move together.”

From modular kitchen dreamers to professional designers looking for their next go-to solution, the Experience Centre offers hands-on access to Blum’s globally trusted systems — soft-close hinges, smart lift-ups, whisper-quiet drawers, and more.

At its heart, Blum’s vision is simple: life gets easier when your home works with you, not against you. Whether it’s a cabinet that stays open while you find the spice jar or a drawer that doesn’t demand muscle to shut, the details matter.

And Hyderabad — a city where tradition and innovation live side by side — gets that. With the new Experience Centre, Blum isn’t just building visibility in the region. It’s building relationships, fostering community and putting thoughtful design where it belongs: at the centre of everyday life.

With summer temperatures soaring, keeping food and beverages fresh is essential. If you’re on a budget and looking for value-packed refrigerators, we’ve handpicked 5 models under 350 litres that combine style, performance, and affordability. Here are our top picks from Lotus Electronics to cool your kitchen this season.

1. Godrej 238L 2 Star Inverter Double Door Refrigerator (RT EONALPHA 270B RI AR BL – Aria Blue)
Stylish and energy-efficient, this Godrej model offers ample storage, inverter technology, and toughened glass shelves, making it ideal for small families. The 2-star rating helps save on electricity without breaking the bank.

2. LG 185L 3 Star Single Door Refrigerator (GL-B201APZD – Shiny Steel)
Perfect for bachelors or couples, this LG single-door fridge combines a sleek steel finish with a smart inverter compressor for silent operation and better cooling. Its 3-star rating ensures efficiency all summer long.

3. Lloyd 178L 2 Star Single Door Refrigerator (GLDC192SCBT4LC – Cherry Blossom Blue)
Compact and charming, this Lloyd model fits easily into tight spaces and delivers decent performance for the price. Its vibrant Cherry Blossom design adds a splash of color to your kitchen decor.

4. Samsung 330L 2 Star Inverter Double Door Refrigerator (RT34DG5A2BBXHL – Luxe Black)
Ideal for medium-sized families, this Samsung double-door fridge is built with Digital Inverter technology for long-lasting performance. Its elegant black finish and spacious design offer both style and functionality.

5. Whirlpool 207L 3 Star Single Door Refrigerator (230 IMPRO GD PRM 3S – Gold Dust)
Whirlpool delivers premium looks with practical features like insulated capillary technology and large freezer space. Its 3-star efficiency rating makes it an economical yet stylish choice this summer.

From compact single-door options to spacious double-door designs, these five budget-friendly refrigerators from Lotus Electronics combine cooling efficiency, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen or buying your first fridge, these options from trusted brands keep your summer needs in check—without overheating your wallet.