Archives May 2025

2 May 2025: The Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) — now officially recognised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India — has been entrusted with the responsibility to govern, promote, and develop pickleball across the country. This landmark recognition validates IPA as the sole apex body for the sport in India and marks a turning point in its national and global journey. With systematic and painstaking groundwork laid by the members in IPA and a fast-growing community behind it, IPA is ready to drive the next chapter: building a nationwide ecosystem of access, excellence, and opportunity. This includes embedding pickleball in schools, communities, and elite training programs, and preparing Indian athletes for the global stage.

“This recognition is a historic milestone — but more importantly, it is a mandate to act,” said Suryaveer Singh Bhullar, President of IPA. “We are committed to building a world-class sporting structure for pickleball in India. The mission is clear: talent identification, equitable access, professional training, and global competitiveness – winning medals for India at the junior and pro categories at the world stage.” He further commented, “The current IPA team brings a wealth of experience — from organizing multiple state and national-level pickleball events to conducting coach certification programs and running junior development academies. Many of us have also represented India on the global stage — at the Olympics, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games — as players, coaches, and administrators. This collective expertise is a tremendous asset for the growth of pickleball in India. As a team, we are committed to making pickleball one of the most popular sports in the country.”

 IPA’s Vision and Youth Development Focus

The Indian Pickleball Association envisions a robust and inclusive sporting ecosystem built on the following pillars:

• 100,000 active registered players regularly participating in events
• National-level competitions across all age groups
• Comprehensive grassroots development programs
• Establishment of more National High-Performance Centres for elite training in addition to existing Centres

A key priority for the IPA is youth player development, training and officiating, and professional pathways and events. To this end, the association is actively working to:

• Rollout of Pickleball in schools, through alignment with programs like Khelo India
• Women’s Pickleball Cup expansion, championing gender inclusion
• Host International Coaches Conferences to facilitate knowledge exchange and Nationwide certification programs for referees and coaches, creating employment and structure
• Conduct multiple state events through state associations leading to nationals leading to India’s representation at the Pickleball World Cup and other International Events
• On top of this, Indian Pickleball League, sanctioned by IPA will feature 6 teams and about 36 Indian and International top players, and will take place in the second half of 2025
• The league was announced with Tennis Icons Andre Agassi and Rohan Bopanna in December 2024 in Mumbai
• Streamline the junior and national ranking structure

Demonstrating its nationwide impact, the IPA Nationals in January 2025 at Bennett University, Greater Noida, welcomed over 500 players from more than 20 Indian states. The tournament featured 14 international-standard courts, showcasing the rising competitive standards in India.

Previously, the IPA sanctioned PWR DUPR India Masters 2024 at DLTA Stadium, New Delhi, brought global attention to Indian pickleball. The event drew players from around the world and was covered by media houses like DD National, Times Now, Zoom, Mirror Now, and leading YouTube channels such as Pickleball Now. The IPA also hosted clinics and coaching programs in India led by APP World #1 Megan Fudge DeHeart and APP World #5 Ryler DeHeart — underscoring its commitment to bringing the best global expertise to India.

Over the past three years, pickleball has rapidly gained popularity in India — inspired by its phenomenal growth in the US and accelerated by a post-pandemic shift toward new-age sports. IPA, and the leaders now at its helm, have been central to this surge. The association has been carefully structured with member states and individuals who bring unmatched credibility — from Olympians and national champions to experienced sports administrators, business leaders, and certified coaches.

The IPA Leadership

IPA’s Executive Board brings together 14 visionary leaders committed to the sport’s integrity and growth. Notable members include:

• Suryaveer Singh Bhullar – IPA President, National Champion, and Asian Gold Medalist (50+)
• Dhiren Patel – US Open Gold Medalist and National Champion (35+) and India No. 1 (35+)

• Vishnu Vardhan – Tennis Olympian and Silver Medalist in Asian Games
• Lt. Col. Ranbir Chauhan – Veteran sports administrator – over 25 years of International, and National exposure
• Praveen Singh – Tournament Director of various International Sporting Events
• Vivek Shokeen – Former Davis Cupper India, Active Pickleball Player, A True Athlete and A Coach
• Amrita Mukherjee – Women’s National Champion (Open)
• Raima Sen – Actor and pickleball advocate

Coaching & Officiating Leadership

• Dilip Mohanty, Head of PPR India, has led the training and certification of over 100 coaches nationwide.
• Abhishek Mukherjee, world-class tennis official, leads IPA’s referee program, bringing international standards to Indian tournaments.

International Alignment and Milestones Ahead

IPA is a proud member of the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF) and is actively aligned with its roadmap for Olympic inclusion. Supported by GPF, IPA is preparing Indian athletes for top-tier international competition.

More than 20 states and union territories have organised multiple state-level pickleball events in the lead-up to the national championships. These events have featured participation across various categories, including juniors, professionals, and seniors.

Upcoming IPA Events

 India’s Time is Now

With official status, robust leadership, and a clear international roadmap, the Indian Pickleball Association is set to transform the sport’s future — making pickleball a household name and positioning India as a global powerhouse in the game.

GURUGRAM, India, May 2, 2025 Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, is turning up the heat this summer with the return of its blockbuster sale — Fab Grab Fest! Kicking off on May 1, this much-anticipated shopping extravaganza brings sizzling, limited-time deals on a wide range of Samsung’s cutting-edge products, available exclusively on Samsung.com, Samsung Shop App and Samsung Exclusive Stores.

Fabulous Smartphone and Laptop Deals up for Grabs

As the sale kicks off, customers can enjoy up to 41% off on select models of Samsung Galaxy S, Galaxy Z, and Galaxy A smartphone series. Whether it is the latest foldables or powerful camera-centric models, there is something for every tech enthusiast. In addition, select Galaxy tablets, accessories and wearables will be available at discount of up to 50% off, making it the perfect time to complete your Galaxy ecosystem.

Not just that, users seeking a seamless and versatile tablet-like experience can avail up to 35% off on select Galaxy Book5 and Book4 laptops and elevate their workflow with Galaxy AI.

Customers purchasing the all-new Galaxy Tab S10FE series will get 45W charger without cable worth INR 2999 free.

Big Screen Luxury at Incredible Prices

Unmissable deals on Samsung’s flagship TVs are also lined up in this edition. Customers can expect up to 48% off on popular models including the Neo-QLED 8K, Neo QLED, OLED, QLED, The Frame, and Crystal 4K UHD series. Those looking to turn their walls into a confluence of art and technology can choose The Frame TV. With a flush fit, Samsung’s Frame seamlessly transcends into an art piece when turned off – and now, with an instant cart discount of up to INR 11000, premium design and cinematic experiences are more accessible than ever. Additionally, customers can avail benefits of up to INR 5000 exchange bonus on purchase of select TVs.

Smart Savings on Digital and Premium Home Appliances

Samsung is also rolling out exclusive offers on its full suite of digital appliances. Shoppers can enjoy deals across refrigerators, washing machines, microwaves, air conditioners, and monitors.

For those seeking top-tier performance and design, select models of side-by-side refrigerators, French-door refrigerators will be up for grabs at an exclusive deal of up to 43% off.

Select models of washing machines will be available at up to 43% off. Additionally, they will get a generous 20-year warranty on the Digital Inverter Motor for both Fully Automatic Front Loading and Fully Automatic Top Loading machines.

To beat the heat this summer, select WindFree™ AC models can be availed at a fabulous deal of 58% off, with an additional 5% discount on the purchase of two or more units. These ACs also include a 5-year warranty on the PCB part and a 10-year warranty on the compressor, delivering both savings, comfort and peace of mind.

Step into Luxury with Samsung’s ‘Buy More, Save More’ Offers

Customers can continue to indulge in a premium experience through our ‘Buy More Save More’ deals. Shoppers purchasing two or more smart home appliances via Samsung.com or the Samsung Shop App will receive an additional discount of 5%. The programme invites users to handpick their own personalized bundles from a variety of digital appliances that suit their needs, while maximizing savings.

Select Samsung monitors will be available at discounts of up to 60%. Customers purchasing Galaxy Book Series laptops can avail a multi-buy offer on monitors – where pairing the two together will mean more savings. Additionally, Samsung is offering an instant cart discount of up to INR 7000 on gaming monitors.

Easy Financing and Cashback Offers

Customers can avail cashback of up to 22.5% using debit and credit cards from leading banks including HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank. The maximum cashback available during the Fab Grab Fest is INR 25000, adding an extra layer of affordability to the existing unbeatable offers.

GURUGRAM, 02 May 2025: Air India and Air India Express have announced the appointment of dnata as their General Sales Agent (GSA) and Representative Agency (RA), respectively, in the UAE. The agreement, formally signed at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 in Dubai, reflects the Air India group’s continued focus on enhancing reach and customer engagement in the strategically important UAE market.

Under this partnership, dnata will provide comprehensive sales, marketing, and distribution support to both carriers across the UAE, excluding Abu Dhabi and Al Ain for Air India. This localised approach will improve accessibility for travellers and trade partners while supporting the Air India group’s broader growth plans in the region.

Air India operates 82x weekly flights from the UAE to India, while Air India Express connects five cities—Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, and Sharjah—with over 240x weekly flights from the UAE. The UAE represents the single-largest international market for Air India Express and remains one of the most significant global markets, serving millions of Indian expatriates and other travellers.

Kaizad Postwalla, Head of International Sales – GMEA & North America, Air India, said, “The UAE is a key market in our international network. We are pleased to partner with dnata, whose deep understanding of the region and proven track record in travel services will help us better connect with customers, drive demand, and enhance service delivery in the market.” 

Dr. Ankur Garg, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India Express, added, “Our collaboration with dnata marks another step in expanding our commercial presence in the region. As our network and fleet grow, this partnership will help us stay closer to our customers and offer them even more reliable and seamless travel options to and from India.” 

Simon Woodford, Vice President Global Air Services at dnata Travel Group, commented, “Air India group is offerig increasingly accessible and affordable options for leisure and business travel between the UAE and India. We represented Air India in Dubai for passenger sales for almost 50 years between 1967 and 2014 and are delighted to now be appointed by the Air India group, as its operations continue to grow and support millions of travellers.”

With a growing network of 45 domestic and 43 international destinations served by Air India, and 38 domestic and 17 international destinations by Air India Express, the Air India group continues to invest in partnerships and service enhancements that bring India closer to the world.

Chandigarh, May 02, 2025: Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M Ltd.), one of India’s leading automotive companies, today announced that its overall auto sales for the month of April 2025 stood at 84170 vehicles, a growth of 19%, including exports.

In the Utility Vehicles segment, Mahindra sold 52330 vehicles in the domestic market, a growth of 28% and overall, 54860 vehicles, including exports. The domestic sales for Commercial Vehicles stood at 22989.

According to Veejay Nakra, President, Automotive Division, M&M Ltd., “Building on the strong momentum of last year’s performance, we began the year on a strong note in April by achieving SUV sales of 52330 units, a growth of 28% and total vehicle sales of 84170 units, a 19% growth over the same month last year. These numbers indicate the strength of our portfolio and customer offerings.”

⁠May 2, 2025 – GIGABYTE Technology, one of the top global manufacturers of motherboards, graphics cards, and hardware solutions, is proud to announce that its cutting-edge motherboard lineup has been honored with the coveted 2025 IF Design Awards. This recognition celebrates GIGABYTE’s commitment to exceptional design, functionality, and innovation in the competitive computing hardware landscape.

The award-winning motherboard series exemplifies GIGABYTE’s dedication to creating products that seamlessly blend technological innovation with thoughtful design principles. Each board showcases GIGABYTE’s meticulous attention to both performance and aesthetics.

The winning motherboard includes:

• B650E AORUS STEALTH ICE delivers the world’s first pure white reverse connector motherboard, enabling a virtually cable-free desktop with faster assembly, improved airflow, and enhanced performance in an uncluttered, spacious design.
• The Z890 AERO G, engineered specifically for content creators, delivers superior performance for demanding tasks including 3D rendering and video editing.
• The TRX50 AI TOP workstation motherboard features an innovative design optimized for unparalleled performance and scalability, meeting the rigorous demands of AI training and high-performance computing applications.
• The revolutionary Z890 AI TOP motherboard enables AI fine-tuning capabilities directly at your desk, exceling in scalability, next-generation connectivity, and innovative DIY-friendly designs.

This recognition reinforces GIGABYTE’s position as an industry leader committed to pushing boundaries in both technological advancement and design sophistication. GIGABYTE continues its dedication to developing motherboards that not only meet but exceed the evolving demands of modern computing environments.

Mumbai, May 2, 2025: Sony SAB’s Veer Hanuman continues to enthrall audiences with its dynamic and heartfelt story of young Maruti’s extraordinary transformation—from a curious child to the mighty divine warrior, Hanuman. Featuring Aan Tiwari as the young Maruti, Arav Chowdharry as Kesari, Sayli Salunkhe as Anjani, and Mahir Pandhi in a dual portrayal of Bali and Sugreev, Veer Hanuman is a captivating watch for all. In the recent episodes, Maruti vows to Patal Kali (Aishwarya Bhakuni) that he will prevent the sunrise, while Raja Kesari prays to Lord Shiva for Mata Anjana’s protection. Using his Mahima Siddhi, Maruti stops the sun’s rays from reaching Earth.

In the upcoming episodes, Shani Dev (Rishabh Pawar) enters Lord Hanuman’s life at a turning point in his journey. As Hanuman seeks to uncover the identity of his Aradhya, guided by celestial signs and the profound wisdom of Jatayu (Bheemraj Malaji), Lord Mahadev (Tarun Khanna) sends Shani Dev to steer him toward the righteous path. As Hanuman prepares to pass through five spiritual stages, Shani Dev’s shadow falls over Kishkindha, bringing unexpected trials. With Bali planning to outshine Lord Hanuman and power shifts brewing in the kingdom, the path ahead is filled with challenges that will test Lord Hanuman’s faith, strength, and destiny.

In 1955, Inspector hit the silver screen, marking the start of a legendary journey in Indian cinema. Produced by Mr. Abdul Karim Nadiadwala (A.K. Nadiadwala), it was the very first film under the iconic Nadiadwala banner. Starring veterans like Ashok Kumar, Geeta Bali, and Pran, and directed by Shakti Samanta, the film laid the foundation for a cinematic legacy that would span decades.

Before entering the world of films, A.K. Nadiadwala was a successful name in the construction business. One of his landmark projects was Pushpa Park in Malad, named in honour of his beloved wife. Born in Nadiad, Gujarat, from where his surname comes, he owned half the city before making Mumbai his home and cinema his calling.

From real estate to reel life, his journey was marked by a series of memorable films that left a lasting impact on Indian cinema. Some of these include: Taj Mahal (1963), Chitralekha (1964), Izzat (1968), Amar Shakti (1978) and many more.

As Inspector completes 70 glorious years, we honor the vision and pioneering spirit of A.K. Nadiadwala, who not only built homes but also built dreams on celluloid.

New Delhi: May 02, 2025: Royal Enfield posted monthly sales of 86,559 motorcycles in April 2025, up by 6% during the same month last year. Royal Enfield exported 10,557 motorcycles during the month ascompared to 6,832 during the same month last year registering a growth of 55% over corresponding period last year.

Speaking about the performance for the month of April 2025, B Govindarajan, Managing Director,Eicher Motors, and Chief Executive Officer, Royal Enfield, said, “After achieving the million unit sales milestone in the past financial year, this year is also off to a flying start. In April, we introduced the2025 Hunter 350 in new colourways at HunterHood — a celebration not just of the motorcycle’s agilityand youthful spirit but of the vibrant community that’s at the heart of everything we do at Royal Enfield.We also expanded our international footprint, introducing the Classic 350 in Nepal and continuing todeepen our connection with our global riding community. As we move further into the new financialyear, we are excited about what’s coming next while staying true to our core philosophyof puremotorcycling.”

Brand & Business Updates
Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Colourways Launched at HunterHood Royal Enfield launched the 2025 Hunter 350, a refreshed version of its popular street roadster, at its first-ever street culture festival, HunterHood, in Mumbai and Delhi. The event gathered riders, artists, and urban explorers. The 2025 Hunter 350 comes in three new colours and offers better ground clearance, improved comfort, a slip-assist clutch, LED headlamps, a tripper pod, and Type-C charging. Powered by the 349cc J-series engine, it continues to blend style, agility, and urban spirit, with a growing global community of over 500,000 riders.

Royal Enfield Classic 350 Launched in Nepal
Royal Enfield launched the new Classic 350 in Nepal, combining its timeless style with modern enhancements. Rolled out from Royal Enfield’s exclusive CKD facility in Nepal, the motorcycle starts at an MRP of NPR 5.55 lakhs with the entry-level Heritage variant now featuring dual-channel ABS, LED headlamps, LED pilot lamps, a Type-C USB charger, and a gear position indicator. For the first time in Nepal, ABS is standard across all Classic variants, which are offered in seven colourways across five distinctive trims — Heritage, Heritage Premium, Signals, Classic Dark, and Classic Chrome.