Archives June 2025

This weekend from  11 AM – 10 PM the Infiniti Mall, Malad will transform into a lively hub where families can come together to make memories and honour the superdads in their lives.

Get ready to feel the beat at the Djembe Drum Circle, a vibrant, high-energy jam where families can come together, share the rhythm, and create joyful moments. A fun-filled experience open to all families can simply step in with high spirits and  enjoy the vibe!

And for those who love getting creative, the Card Making Workshop offers the perfect chance for little ones to design heartfelt surprises for their fathers. With colours, craft supplies, and a big imagination, children can make something truly special that dads will cherish forever.

From lively beats to handmade tokens of love, this Father’s Day celebration at Infiniti Mall is all about laughter, bonding, and meaningful family time. It’s the perfect place for families to make the weekend truly special and create lasting memories together.

With Father’s Day approaching, it’s the perfect moment to celebrate the incredible man who’s been your constant support and strength. This year, skip the usual socks and mugs—surprise him with the tech gadgets that makes a difference. Whether he’s a gadget geek or just enjoys tools that simplify life, these Sony gadgets are the perfect fit for him.

LinkBuds Fit Truly Wireless Earbuds

The recently introduced LinkBuds Fit comes with excellent noise cancellation, exceptional sound quality and a secure, comfortable fit, they deliver an immersive audio experience that your father will love. Additionally, the long-lasting battery will ensure a trouble-free user experience for him.

ZV-E10 II vlog camera     

Perfect for capturing every unforgettable moment, the Sony ZV-E10 II is a compact and lightweight vlog camera that delivers professional-quality results. Whether it’s family gatherings, weekend adventures, or everyday milestones, this camera is built for portability without compromising on performance. Powered by the latest BIONZ XR image processing engine, it captures stunning detail and clarity—making it the perfect gift to help Dad preserve memories in vibrant, lifelike quality.

ULT Wear Wireless Headphones

This Fathers’ day surprise your dad with the ultimate ULT Wear wireless headphones as they combine advanced noise cancellation, premium sound quality, and a sleek, stylish design, these headphones are the perfect companion for his everyday adventures. With exceptional comfort and a long-lasting battery, he can enjoy every beat of his favourite music—from busy mornings to well-earned moments of relaxation.

BRAVIA Theatre Bar 8 soundbar    

Surprise your dad with the ultimate home entertainment upgrade — the SONY BRAVIA Theatre Bar 8 Soundbar. This premium soundbar delivers immersive 360 Spatial Sound Mapping and Dolby Atmos, turning any living room into a cinematic experience. Whether he’s watching action-packed movies, streaming his favourite shows, the Theatre Bar 8 brings crystal-clear dialogue and deep, powerful bass. It’s the perfect gift for the dads who are audiophiles.

BRAVIA 2 II TV

Sony BRAVIA  2 4K Ultra HD Smart LED Google TV is an exceptional gift choice for your father, combining cutting-edge technology with user-friendly features. Equipped with Sony’s X1 Picture Processor, it enhances image clarity and detail, delivering vibrant 4K visuals. The integration of Google TV offers seamless access to a vast array of streaming services, apps, and live TV channels. For audio, the TV boasts Dolby Audio and Clear Phase technology, ensuring immersive and clear sound quality. If your father is a cinephile this is an ideal gift for him.

The much-anticipated mythological actioner Kannappa, headlined by Vishnu Manchu, is all set to drop its official trailer on June 13.

Mounted on a large scale, the film has generated considerable buzz for its ambitious storytelling and stunning visual canvas. Directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh, the film also includes Akshay Kumar, Kajal Aggarwal, Prabhas, Mohanlal, Arpit Ranka and other leading south actors. Kannappa draws inspiration from the revered devotee of Lord Shiva, bringing to screen a tale that blends devotion, destiny, and action.

While details about the trailer are still under wraps, fans can expect a glimpse into the film’s scale and world-building—something that has been in the making for years. The project also features an ensemble cast, with several surprise appearances expected.

With the trailer launch just around the corner, Kannappa is already shaping up to be one of the most talked-about releases of the year.

India, 11th June 2025 – Multi-Grammy Award-winning music icon and one of pop music’s most influential singer/songwriters of our current times, Enrique Iglesias is set to ignite the stage in Mumbai with an exclusive show on Thursday, 30th October 2025, at the prestigious MMRDA Grounds, BKC

Produced and promoted by India’s leading live event company, EVA Live in partnership with BEW Live, this concert marks the multi-platinum-selling artist’s highly anticipated return to India after 13 years, poised to ignite fervent excitement among music enthusiasts across the sub-continent.

Iglesias, celebrated as one of Spain’s most prolific musical icons, is expected to deliver an unprecedented nostalgic showcase embracing a career-spanning setlist encompassing both his iconic standards and contemporary chart-toppers from his illustrious three-decade plus career. Iglesias’ unparalleled versatility will be on full display as his magnetic stage presence, coupled with his signature bend of pop will ignite the city, enhanced by world-class production and state-of-the-art visuals that promises to be an unforgettable, immersive and nostalgic experience for all in attendance.

This monumental event which precedes the next engagement on Iglesias’ touring calendar in Abu Dhabi, promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime concert experience, as it anticipates drawing over 30,000 attendees and record-breaking ticket registrations. Marking Iglesias’ triumphant return since his sold-out three-city tour in 2012, this concert is poised to be a landmark cultural event in India’s international music calendar. Fans are assured an evening of unparalleled entertainment, celebrating one of the most streamed and beloved artists in music history.

Deepak Chaudhary, Founder and Managing Director, EVA Live, the company who hosted Bryan Adams in India last year states, “Bringing Enrique Iglesias back to India after 13 years is a truly historic moment. The anticipation among fans has been palpable, and we are overjoyed to facilitate this reunion. With a resurgence of interest in iconic international acts, Iglesias epitomizes a timeless allure that bridges generations, and this tour reaffirms our dedication to delivering world-class entertainment while elevating India’s stature on the global touring stage.”

This announcement follows a wave of successful international concerts in India, featuring luminaries such as Guns N’ Roses, Coldplay, Bryan Adams, Maroon 5, Akon, Alan Walker, Glass Animals and Dua Lipa. With upcoming performance by Travis Scott on the horizon, Iglesias’ return further solidifies India’s burgeoning reputation as a premier destination for global music events. This concert promises not merely a performance, but a cultural milestone, uniting fans in a celebration of music, passion and artistry under the inimitable aura of Enrique Iglesias.

For years, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs have been the gold standard for international students seeking education abroad. However, a significant shift is underway, as revealed during Prodigy Finance’s recent Coffee Chat events held on May 17, 2025, in Kolkata and Mumbai. These sessions, which brought together aspiring students and education experts, revealed a growing enthusiasm among Indian students for non-STEM disciplines.

Prodigy Finance, a global student loan provider supporting international postgraduate education, reports that while STEM remains relevant, interest is also rising in fields such as business, law, hospitality, and public policy.

Sonal Kapoor, Global Chief Business Officer at Prodigy Finance, says, “Today’s international students are not just looking for degrees—they’re looking for platforms to influence change. While STEM courses still attract high volumes, we’re seeing sharp growth in applications for courses that intersect with leadership, innovation, and public good.”

This shift is driven by several compelling factors. Non-STEM fields such as business, law, hospitality, and public policy open doors to dynamic industries and leadership roles across the globe. Many students are choosing these disciplines to align their careers with personal values and a desire to make a meaningful difference in society.

• Business: Offers universal applicability and flexibility to work across countries and cultures.

• Law: Prepares students to navigate complex legal and regulatory environments worldwide.

• Hospitality: Equips graduates for leadership in a global industry focused on service and innovation.

• Public Policy: Empowers students to shape societal outcomes and address global challenges.

Employers are increasingly seeking graduates who can thrive in complex social, economic, and cultural environments, making these non-STEM degrees highly attractive.

The coffee chats also confirmed that the US remains the top destination for many Indian students, with the UK following closely. This is consistent with a broader 2024 Open Doors Report, which noted that India sent over 331,000 students to the US in 2023–24, a 23.3% increase from the previous year, making India the largest source of international students in the US.

At the same time, Prodigy Finance-supported universities and schools worldwide are expanding their postgraduate offerings beyond traditional STEM fields. Many of these institutions, such as INSEAD, The Wharton School, London Business School, and the London School of Economics, attract students to programs in business, public policy, law, and health sciences. These disciplines are increasingly popular among students seeking dynamic, globally mobile careers that extend beyond the boundaries of science and technology.

Prodigy Finance offers a variety of loan options, from no co-signer to no collateral, with the flexibility of lower rates for Indian students with a co-signer loan. Their assessment focuses on future earning potential rather than financial history, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to secure the funding they need to achieve their academic goals.

In 2025 alone, Prodigy Finance has pledged at least 30% of its funding to women and 50% to students from low- and lower-middle-income backgrounds. This commitment reflects a larger mission: to democratize international education and empower students, regardless of their field, to thrive on a global stage.

As students redefine what success means, their educational choices are evolving. The focus is no longer solely on mastering STEM courses but also on shaping society and driving change. Prodigy Finance is not just observing this transformation; it is actively enabling it, supporting students in pursuing both STEM and non-STEM dreams on the world stage.

Bengaluru, Karnataka: June 10, 2025: In a meaningful step toward fostering accessibility and inclusion, United Way Bengaluru, with support from State Street, supported the ‘Divyangjan*’ (differently abled) community through the distribution of mobility aids, and assistive technologies, including 4 e-autos, 10 NeoMotion, 40 SHG Glasses, 3 Kibo and 200 Alexa.

Organized by State Street and United Way Bengaluru, the initiative reinforces two firms’ shared commitment to advancing inclusion, dignity, and opportunity for a brighter, more accessible future. This marks a major milestone in the ongoing efforts to support empowerment of persons with disabilities, especially in areas where access to livelihood opportunities can be limited. Supported by Parihar, an initiative of the Bengaluru Police Commissioner’s office, the e-auto programme is dedicated to creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for those from vulnerable communities. By providing technology-enabled assistive devices that enhance mobility, communication, and learning, the initiative aims to equip individuals with the technology they need to thrive. These devices support mobility and learning and empower users to interact with their environments more fully and independently.

“Inclusion is not just a value, it’s a responsibility. State Street is proud to support the Aikyam initiative as part of our broader commitment to accessible innovation. By contributing resources, technology and expertise, we aim to provide persons with disabilities opportunities to education and employment that lead to their economic mobility,” said Arindam Banerrji, Executive Vice President and Country Head for State Street India.

“At United Way Bengaluru, we believe that empowerment begins with access. Aikyam is close to our hearts; it is a flagship campaign that celebrates diversity and inclusion. We are enabling participation and upholding the dignity of our people. We are not just changing lives, but are also opening doors towards accessibility, by empowering our community,” said Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru.

Bengaluru, Karnataka: In a meaningful step toward fostering accessibility and inclusion, United Way Bengaluru, with support from State Street, supported the ‘Divyangjan*’ (differently abled) community through the distribution of mobility aids, and assistive technologies, including 4 e-autos, 10 NeoMotion, 40 SHG Glasses, 3 Kibo and 200 Alexa.

Organized by State Street and United Way Bengaluru, the initiative reinforces two firms’ shared commitment to advancing inclusion, dignity, and opportunity for a brighter, more accessible future. This marks a major milestone in the ongoing efforts to support empowerment of persons with disabilities, especially in areas where access to livelihood opportunities can be limited. Supported by Parihar, an initiative of the Bengaluru Police Commissioner’s office, the e-auto programme is dedicated to creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for those from vulnerable communities. By providing technology-enabled assistive devices that enhance mobility, communication, and learning, the initiative aims to equip individuals with the technology they need to thrive. These devices support mobility and learning and empower users to interact with their environments more fully and independently.

“Inclusion is not just a value, it’s a responsibility. State Street is proud to support the Aikyam initiative as part of our broader commitment to accessible innovation. By contributing resources, technology and expertise, we aim to provide persons with disabilities opportunities to education and employment that lead to their economic mobility,” said Arindam Banerrji, Executive Vice President and Country Head for State Street India.

“At United Way Bengaluru, we believe that empowerment begins with access. Aikyam is close to our hearts; it is a flagship campaign that celebrates diversity and inclusion. We are enabling participation and upholding the dignity of our people. We are not just changing lives, but are also opening doors towards accessibility, by empowering our community,” said Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru.

New Delhi, June 10, 2025— Renowned multi-genre Indian author has been recently honoured with the University of Nottingham Alumni Laureate Award. Rajesh Talwar a legal scholar, and a former senior United Nations[A1]  official has received this an award from his Alma Mater that celebrates graduates who have made an outstanding contribution to their profession, to social causes and to society .

Author Rajesh Talwar

Mr Talwar, a British Chevening Scholarship recipient pursued his LL.M in International Human Rights Law at the University of Nottingham from 1996 to  1997. Over the past two decades, he has built a distinguished career with the United Nations across three continents, serving in key roles in post-conflict and humanitarian missions in Kosovo, Somalia, Afghanistan, Kenya, East Timor and Liberia. At the UN Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), he held the position of Executive Officer and chaired the Secretariat to the Human Rights Advisory Panel, helping shape human rights oversight in the region. He has also worked as a Legal Advisor to the Police Commissioner in the United Nations Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) and has been the Deputy Legal Adviser to the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA).

Alongside his international career, Mr Talwar is also a prolific writer, having authored 42 books across a range of genres — from legal scholarship and social commentary to plays and children’s literature. His work demonstrates a consistent focus on justice, inclusion, and rights-based discourse. His widely acclaimed publications include The Third Sex and Human Rights; Courting Injustice: The Nirbhaya Case and its Aftermath, a critique of India’s legal system; and The Mahatma’s Manifesto: A Critique of Hind Swaraj, offering a contemporary and unorthodox interpretation of Gandhian philosophy.

Rajesh Talwar is also an alumnus of La Martiniere College, Lucknow and Hindu College, University of Delhi, He has also attended courses at Harvard, Oxford and Cambridge[A2] . Prior to joining the United Nations, he practised law at the courts in Delhi for many years, and also taught law at Delhi University and Jamia Millia Islamia.

In their citation, the award jury noted: “This nominee has had a global impact, contributing to human rights and sustainability through policy change and education, such as writing a play on toxic terror and a book on caste discrimination. The judges selected Rajesh for embodying the value of respect through his dedication to the cause of human rights.”

The jury’s reference to ‘toxic terror’ is about a play he has written titled ‘The Killings in November’ that is available in paperback and was staged by Delhi University students. The reference to caste discrimination refers to Mr Rajesh Talwar’s popular play for children ‘The Boy Who Wrote a Constitution’ on the childhood of Dr B.R. Ambedkar, which chronicles episodes in the great leader’s childhood where he faced severe discrimination.

Responding to the honour, Mr Talwar said, “It is deeply meaningful to be recognised by my alma mater, the University of Nottingham, which played a transformative role in shaping my values, perspectives, and career. Studying human rights law in the UK as a Chevening Scholar gave me access to world-class academic training, but more importantly, it opened up a global outlook and provided me with a perspective that continues to inform my work to this day. Whether serving with the United Nations or writing on justice and human rights, or even writing inspirational books for children, the foundation laid during my time at Nottingham has remained a constant guiding light. This award is not just a personal honour — it is a reflection of the powerful and enduring educational bridge between India and the UK, which continues to empower individuals to make a difference globally.”

He is currently working on an AI-generated animation film titled, ‘Smoky Sky Songs’ based on the issue of air pollution that continues to affect the lives of Indians.

He will receive the Alumni Laureate Award at a ceremony that will be held in July 2025 in the United Kingdom, as part of the university’s global celebrations of alumni excellence.

Mumbai, June 10, 2025: Blue Dart Express Limited, a part of DHL eCommerce and South Asia’s premier express air and integrated transportation & distribution company, has announced the release of the E-Commerce Trends Report 2025, drawing on insights from online shoppers across India. This year’s study spans eight chapters, featuring six shopper types and four generational segments, all highlighting how evolving consumer expectations are reshaping the future of online retail. While the report covers everything from cross-border purchasing to shoppers’ views on sale days like Black Friday, four findings stand out in particular: the way AI and social commerce are transforming online shopping, the essential role that delivery plays in cart conversion, and sustainability shaping loyalty.

“In India, consumer expectations are undergoing a profound transformation. Speed, flexibility, and frictionless experiences are at the core of customer loyalty. Shoppers expect real-time updates, quick delivery, and hassle-free returns. Despite significant advancements in digital shopping, it’s the fundamentals of delivery and returns that continue to define the customer journey. Convenience, choice, and control are non-negotiable as many Indian consumers abandon their purchase if their preferred delivery option isn’t available. As we look ahead, businesses must embrace a future shaped by innovation, transparency, and purpose-led strategies where technology not only enables convenience but also champions sustainability, accessibility, and deeper consumer engagement.” said Balfour Manuel, Managing Director at Blue Dart.

Shopping powered by AI: Smarter Journeys, Higher Expectations

Advancements in generative AI are ushering in the next industrial revolution. But how will AI impact online shopping? Blue Dart and DHL’s latest e-commerce trend report reveals that AI is one of the most highly anticipated and demanded innovations among consumers, with 89% of shoppers in India wanting retailers to offer AI-powered shopping features. Virtual try-ons, AI-powered shopping assistants, and voice-enabled product search top the list of features consumers actively want to use. Shopping via voice commands is already on the rise, with 64% of Indian shoppers making purchases hands-free. As digital expectations rise, so does the demand for intuitive, tech-enabled shopping journeys that blend utility with delight.

Social Commerce Becomes the New E-Commerce

The traditional e-commerce website is increasingly being replaced — or bypassed — by social platforms. Consumers are turning to apps like Instagram and Facebook not just for discovery, but for purchase. 84% Indian shoppers say they have already made a purchase via social media, and 90% expects these platforms to become their primary shopping destination by 2030.

The power of influence also plays a critical role: 93% of Indian shoppers say viral trends and social buzz influence their buying decisions. Instagram (70%), Facebook (69%) and YouTube (66%) in particular are driving change in India, with online shoppers primarily reporting that they buy through these apps. Additionally, over 50% expect to buy even more via these platforms in the next five years. This shift signals a major transformation in how and where brands need to engage with their audiences, and calls for seamless, mobile-native experiences built for in-app conversion.

Delivery and Returns: The Ultimate Conversion Drivers

While new technologies continue to transform the digital shopping experience, it’s the fundamentals of delivery and returns that remain the biggest drivers of cart abandonment. Shoppers aren’t willing to compromise when it comes to convenience, flexibility, and control. In fact, 80% of Indian consumers say they will abandon their purchase if their preferred delivery option isn’t available. Just as critically, 81% will leave if the return process doesn’t match their expectations. Trust also plays a major role, with 54% of Indian shoppers reporting that they will not buy from a retailer if they don’t trust the delivery and returns provider. These expectations emphasize the importance of transparent, customer-centric logistics strategies — not just as an operational concern, but as a core part of the conversion funnel.

Sustainability and the Circular Economy: From Buzzword to Bottom-Line Impact

Sustainability has evolved from a brand differentiator into a core consumer demand. In India, 82% of shoppers now consider sustainability when making online purchases. This goes beyond packaging or shipping — 59% shoppers have actively abandoned their carts due to sustainability concerns.

Indian consumers are also embracing more circular models of consumption, with 52% opting for pre-owned or refurbished goods, motivated by both environmental values and cost efficiency. Additionally, 81% of Indian shoppers express willingness to participate in recycling or buy-back programs offered by retailers. These behaviors point to a growing expectation that brands will not only reduce their footprint, but actively empower consumers to shop more sustainably.

As we look towards 2030, these insights provide a clear roadmap for retailers aiming to capture the attention of today’s diverse shopper demographics. By embracing technology, prioritizing sustainability, and understanding the evolving preferences of consumers, businesses can transform challenges into opportunities.

This Father’s Day, honour the incredible role of fathers with a celebration that goes beyond the ordinary. On 15th June 2025, Seasonal Tastes at The Westin Mumbai Garden City presents a thoughtfully curated Sunday Brunch with Thai specialities by Guest chef Rungtiwa Sorlae — an occasion designed to bring together men and families in a setting that encourages connection, celebration, and indulgence.

The brunch offers more than just great food — it creates a space where fathers can unwind, share stories, and enjoy meaningful moments with loved ones. Whether it’s a father bonding with his children, reconnecting with old friends, or simply taking a well-deserved break, this brunch sets the stage for joy and recognition.