Archives 2025

Chapters by Conrad Pune Pours Inspiration with Sonal Holland’s ‘One in a Billion’ at the Third edition of ‘Chapters by Conrad’ at Conrad Pune

India, 27th October, 2025: Conrad Pune’s third edition of its signature monthly literary and experiential series, ‘Chapters by Conrad’, unfolded into an unforgettable and inspiring evening of storytelling featuring Sonal Holland, India’s first and only Master of Wine. As Sonal presented her recently launched memoir, one in a Billion, she shared fascinating anecdotes from her extraordinary journey that has taken her from the bustling streets of Mumbai to the vineyards of the world. Sonal took guests through her extraordinary journey of defying convention, chasing meaning, and ultimately creating history in a country that was still learning to sip wine.

Held at the hotel’s award-winning Asian restaurant, MASU, the evening brought together an elegant gathering of the city’s finest culture connoisseurs, journalists, wine aficionados and tastemakers, all united to celebrate the art of storytelling and passing behind every pour.

In an engaging conversation moderated by Mr. Abhishek Sahai, General Manager, Conrad Pune, Sonal opened up about her incredible and inspiring ascent in the world of wine, from breaking stereotypes, demystifying the myths surrounding the wine industry to becoming one of the world’s most respected wine experts. Sonal reflected on the turning point when she left her high-powered corporate career at thirty-three to pursue a passion that few in India understood. “Everyone thought I was crazy to leave a stable job for wine, but I was chasing meaning, not money,”

She also shared a glimpse into her once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including dining with Barone Ricasoli at the world’s oldest wine estate in Italy, tasting vintages steeped in centuries of history, and how those moments shaped her philosophy on balance, purpose and the importance of setting clear goal and following it with all your passion.

The session concluded with a lively Q&A, followed by an exclusive wine-tasting experience curated by Sonal Holland in association with Grover Zampa. Guests were treated to a selection of fine red and white wines paired with a bespoke high-tea menu, crafted by Conrad Pune’s culinary team to complement the evening’s flavourful narratives. The setting offered an intimate, elegant ambience that beautifully complemented the essence of the evening – thoughtful conversations over fine wine and even finer company.

Reflecting on the success of the event, Mr. Abhishek Sahai, General Manager, Conrad Pune, shared, “At Conrad Pune, our vision with ‘Chapters by Conrad’ has always been to curate experiences that go beyond the expected, where stories, ideas and inspiration come together. Having Sonal Holland with us for the third edition was truly special, her story is one of purpose and persistence, much like the Conrad spirit itself.”

Speaking about the experience, Sonal Holland added, “It was such a delight to be part of ‘Chapters by Conrad’. The evening felt like a celebration of dreams, dialogue, and stories that persevered. Sharing my journey over conversations, laughter, and a glass of wine was truly special, I was touched by the audience’s curiosity and warmth. And, of course, delighted to raise a glass to storytelling at its finest, as like great wines, stories only get richer with time.”

With each edition, ‘Chapters by Conrad’ continues to build a space that celebrates voices from diverse walks of life, where literature, art, and ideas come together in a setting that inspires connection and reflection. At Conrad Pune’s flagship cultural platform, it continues to celebrate authors and changemakers who inspire creativity and thought through their craft. The evening reaffirmed the hotel’s commitment to curating immersive, soulful, and luxurious experiences that stay long after the last sip.

d’you turns five and drops the curtain – unveiling an unfiltered reality show about what it really takes to build an authentic brand

New Delhi, 27th October 2025: After five years of building one of India’s most unique premium beauty brands, d’you is lifting the curtain – and this time, it’s not to launch another product.
It’s to launch a reality show.

Titled in d’you time, the unscripted, uncensored reality-series is d’you’s boldest project yet – a raw, unfiltered look into the inner workings of a modern Indian beauty company. There are no scripts. No staged retakes. No PR edits. Just cameras rolling for the last 11 months, as the team builds, argues, fails, learns, and tries again – exactly as it happens, in real time.

Because in a world where every brand claims to be transparent, d’you wanted to ask a harder question:
What does authenticity actually mean when everyone says they’re building in public?

“For me, authenticity isn’t about perfect storytelling. It’s about removing the script; it’s about not just saying you’re authentic but actually showing it” says Shamika Haldipurkar, founder and CEO of d’you. “When the cameras keep rolling even in the middle of intense meetings – that’s when the true authenticity comes out. And that’s when you see people’s true beliefs about the brand they are building.”

A show without polish – and without pretense

The idea for in d’you time was born out of the brand’s fifth year – a milestone that, instead of celebration, sparked reflection. Over the years, d’you had become known for its radical transparency, science-driven products, and deliberate pace. But behind the carefully measured launches and cult-favourite products (hustle, in my defence, unkissed, good grease, inbalance), there were the unseen parts – the chaos, the overnighters, the burden of being bootstrapped, the creative meltdowns, the ethical debates, the financial anxieties, the relentless pursuit of excellence.

And that’s what the show captures.

A camera crew followed team d’you for the last 11 months capturing everything the brand went through. There were no scripts handed to team members. No talking points. No “lines to deliver.” Because the intent wasn’t to produce another polished brand film – it was to document what actually happens when a group of passionate people try to build something great with genuine intentions.

And when there’s no script, what do people really prioritise?

Profits or customers? Speed or quality? Vision or vanity?

What happens when the founder isn’t performing for the camera – but confronting hard truths about leadership, burnout, or decision fatigue?

Those moments – unedited, unrehearsed – form the backbone of in d’you time.

A first-of-its-kind beauty reality series

Across the first season, the show answers some of the brand’s most-asked questions – not through voice-overs or press statements, but through the team’s day-to-day realities.

• What makes d’you a premium brand – beyond its price tag?
• Are all marketplaces truly what they’re made out to be?
• What happens when another brand copies your entire identity – and you have to decide how to respond?

Each episode unfolds as it did in real time, with no do-overs and no creative direction imposed after the fact. It’s as much a masterclass in brand building as it is a commentary on the modern culture of entrepreneurship – one that glorifies hustle, but rarely shows the human cost of it.

The beginning of a new kind of transparency

Over the last five years, d’you has built a reputation for meticulous R&D, slow launches, and industry-shifting products. But in d’you time isn’t about formulations or marketing strategy; it’s about the humanity behind those decisions.

“We’ve always built for our community – this time, we’re building in front of them,” says Haldipurkar. “If we’re going to talk about authenticity, we can’t keep hiding behind brand polish. We have to show the good, the bad, the ugly – and trust that people are smart enough to connect with the truth.”
in d’you time is d’you’s love letter to its fifth year – a marker of evolution, not just as a beauty brand, but as a company redefining what it means to be real in an industry built on illusion.

Goa Welcomes First Charter Flight from Almaty, Kazakhstan for the 2025–26 Tourism Season

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Introduction to Acid Attacks: An Alarming Reality

Acid attacks represent a severe form of violence characterized by the intentional throwing of acid or other corrosive substances onto individuals, primarily targeting women. These heinous acts cause extensive physical injuries, disfigurement, and profound psychological trauma. The intent behind such assaults is often to inflict severe pain and suffering, thereby asserting dominance over the victim. The brutal nature of acid attacks positions them as one of the most alarming threats to personal safety, especially in regions where gender-based violence remains rampant.

In recent years, there has been a disturbing increase in acid attack incidents globally, with countries like India experiencing some of the highest rates. The motives for these attacks vary, often rooted in issues like rejection, jealousy, or as a means of revenge. Victims frequently endure not only physical suffering but also social stigmatization that can lead to isolation and depression, ultimately impacting their quality of life significantly. Moreover, the lack of effective legal frameworks and inadequate support systems further complicate the recovery process for survivors.

The consequences of such violence extend beyond the immediate injuries, leading to lasting emotional scars and a diminished sense of self-worth among survivors. This makes it crucial to address the societal factors that facilitate such acts of violence and to promote a culture of respect and equality. Within this blog post, we will explore the various dimensions of acid attacks, highlighting survivor stories, the response of governmental and non-governmental organizations, and the ongoing efforts to combat this alarming phenomenon. The fight against acid violence necessitates immediate action, raising awareness and advocating for stronger legal protections, support services, and community involvement.

Acid Attacks in India: A Persistent Crisis

Acid attacks have emerged as a critical public safety concern in India, with various statistics underscoring the gravity of this issue. According to reports, nearly 200 acid attacks are recorded annually, with many more going unreported due to societal stigma. Victims of these heinous crimes predominantly include women, who often find themselves targeted due to rejection of romantic advances, disputes over dowries, or even familial conflicts. Alarmingly, more than 90% of acid attack victims are female, reflecting broader societal gender inequalities that perpetuate such violence.

The circumstances surrounding acid attacks in India reveal a deeply entrenched misogyny and a culture of violence that adversely affects women. Many incidents occur in public settings, whereby the perpetrators often act with a sense of impunity, knowing that such acts may not be adequately punished. Furthermore, the accessibility of acidic substances, coupled with inadequate legal frameworks, exacerbates the crisis, enabling attackers to inflict permanent damage in seconds. This has lasting physical and psychological effects on survivors, who face myriad challenges including severe physical pain, long-term health complications, and social stigma.

A poignant illustration of this ongoing struggle is the case of Laxmi Agarwal, an acid attack survivor who has become an emblem of resilience and advocacy. Attacked at the age of 15, Laxmi’s journey showcases not only the personal trauma stemming from such violence but also the collective fight for justice and legislative changes in India. Her story propelled advocacy initiatives focused on stricter laws against acid attacks and the establishment of support systems for survivors. Efforts such as the introduction of the Acid Attack Laws, which aim to improve prosecution and provide assistance to victims, highlight the pressing need for systemic change in addressing this global tragedy.

Acid Attacks Around the World: A Global Issue

Acid attacks represent a pervasive form of violence that transcends geographical boundaries. Initially, the phenomenon garnered significant attention in South Asian countries such as India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, where these assaults often stem from personal disputes, jealousy, or an assertion of control. In Bangladesh, for instance, acid attacks surged in the early 2000s, leading to societal outrage and legislative reforms aimed at curbing such acts of violence. Despite these efforts, incidents continue to persist, highlighting the deep-seated cultural and social issues that enable such brutality.

Meanwhile, in Afghanistan, acid attacks have frequently been utilized as a tool of intimidation against women, particularly those who assert their rights or pursue education. This violence reflects the broader context of gender-based discrimination and societal constraints placed on women, necessitating urgent calls for reform and protection. The United Kingdom has also witnessed acid attacks, primarily associated with gang activities, presenting a different context where the motivations are linked to rivalry and territorial disputes. The perception of acid as a weapon of choice echoes a grim reality in urban areas, where its usage is increasingly becoming normalized among certain demographics.

Furthermore, while acid attacks are less prevalent in the United States, isolated incidents have emerged, often intertwined with domestic violence and gang conflicts. These actions showcase a disturbing trend wherein acid, often perceived as a weapon of fear, serves to inflict pain beyond the physical realm, thereby instilling a lasting psychological impact on victims. The global relevance of acid attacks underscores the necessity for comprehensive strategies that address underlying causes such as gender inequality, socio-economic disparities, and the societal norms that perpetuate violence. It becomes imperative for nations to collaborate on a unified approach to combat this brutal manifestation of violence.

Combating Acid Attacks: Solutions and Preventative Measures

Acid attacks represent a severe form of violence, often targeting women and marginalized individuals. To combat this global tragedy effectively, it is crucial to adopt a multifaceted approach that includes stronger legal frameworks, public awareness initiatives, and educational programs aimed at eliminating gender-based violence. First and foremost, legal reforms play a vital role in deterring potential offenders. Stricter legislation, including harsher penalties for perpetrators, can serve as a powerful deterrent against these heinous acts. Countries must work towards implementing comprehensive laws that specifically address acid attacks, ensuring that justice is served and survivors receive adequate protection.

Public awareness campaigns are equally essential in combating acid violence. Such campaigns can empower communities by educating them about the consequences of acid attacks and promoting respect for human rights. By fostering a culture that denounces violence and supports victims, these initiatives can help reduce stigma and encourage survivors to seek assistance. Utilizing various media platforms, from social media to traditional outlets, can amplify the message and reach a broader audience, ultimately changing societal attitudes towards gender-based violence.

Furthermore, education is a critical component in the fight against violence. Inclusive curricular designs that incorporate discussions about consent, respect, and equality from an early age can instill values that counteract harmful gender stereotypes. Community workshops and training programs can enhance awareness of what constitutes violence and how to prevent it, thus empowering individuals to act against it. Supporting grassroots organizations that work on the frontlines and advocating for policies that protect vulnerable populations are imperative steps towards long-term solutions. By addressing the root causes of acid attacks and fostering a culture of respect and safety, we can create a society where everyone can live free from violence.

Bengaluru, October 27, 2025: The Grihshobha Inspire Awards, instituted by India’s iconic women’s magazine Grihshobha, returns with its Bengaluru edition on Monday, November 3, 2025, at the Bangalore International Centre (BIC). The awards night will celebrate exceptional women achievers from across diverse fields – from STEM, arts, entrepreneurship, grassroots leadership, and business to social change, public service, and culture.

The Inspire Awards shine a spotlight on women who have broken barriers, challenged conventions, and led with purpose – redefining what leadership and inspiration mean in today’s India. The Bengaluru edition will bring together eminent personalities, thought leaders, and changemakers in an evening that honours excellence and resilience while also celebrating art and expression through a special musical performance.

Following the success of its inaugural edition in Delhi (March 2025), the Inspire Awards are now expanding to new regions to celebrate diversity and regional representation. Each edition aims to uncover powerful stories of women who are transforming their communities and industries through courage, creativity, and conviction.

Anant Nath, Editor of The Caravan and Executive Publisher of Delhi Press, said,

“The Inspire Awards began as a celebration and have now become a movement. The incredible response to our first edition reaffirmed that India is full of stories that deserve to be told. By expanding the awards to new regions, we hope to recognize the depth of talent and leadership across the country. These awards are about shining a light on women who inspire others to lead with purpose and leave behind a legacy of change.”

The Bengaluru event will also feature a musical tribute, a two-part tribute curated and performed by Ananyaa Gaur:

• Curtain Raiser: A Tribute to Feminist Icon Begum Akhtar
• Curtain Call: Celebrating Feminine Voices in Folk Culture

The jury panel for the Grihshobha Inspire Awards 2025 comprises accomplished women leaders who bring credibility, expertise, and cross-sectoral insight to the selection process. Leading the jury is Sathya Saran, former Editor of Femina, joined by Richa Shah, Director of Delhi Press; Padmapriya Janakiraman, Actor;Nuriya Ansari, Education & Social Impact leader; Dilshad Master, Media Veteran & Adventure Enthusiast; Surabhi Kanga, Web Editor of The Caravan; Sobha Narayan, Auhtor & Journalist; and Suparna Mitra, former CEO of Titan Watches & Wearables Division.

The Inspire Awards follow a rigorous, transparent selection process, moving from a longlist of over 200 nominations across India to final awardees chosen by the distinguished all-women jury. This process reflects Grihshobha’s commitment to celebrating leadership that transcends region, industry, and background – embodying its philosophy of empowerment and progress.

About Grihshobha

Published by Delhi Press, Grihshobha is India’s most-read Hindi women’s magazine with over one million readers, published in eight languages – Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Kannada, Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, and Bangla. For over 45 years, Grihshobha has informed, inspired, and empowered readers through its rich blend of stories on home, lifestyle, health, and relationships.

Delhi Press is one of India’s largest and most diverse publishing houses with 36 magazines in 10 languages, spanning women’s interest, current affairs, family, and children’s segments.

Gurugram, 27th October 2025: India’s urban transition is gaining momentum, with over 36% of the population now residing in cities. Once known primarily as a land of villages, the country is experiencing rapid demographic shifts. Key drivers for this expansion include migration fuelled by employment opportunities, consequently leading to rising demand of real estate and infrastructure activities within expanding city precincts. This is expanding the city’s footprint from core to peri-urban areas. These emerging corridors are being shaped by infrastructure upgrades, investment-friendly housing options and enhanced intra-city connectivity. Colliers’ latest report, ‘Emerging Micro-Markets Driving Growth in NCR’s Investment Landscape: Gurugram’s Sohna Micro-Market Rising as a Preferred Destination’, captures the evolution of the National Capital Region and the formation of satellite cities, where infrastructure expansion and economic activities are unlocking demand and development potential for real estate in emerging micro-markets, comprising of zones flanking Millennium City ‘Gurugram’. 

Within the National Capital Region (NCR), urbanization has been most pronounced in satellite cities such as Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad and Ghaziabad. Among these, Gurugram has emerged as a leading hub, driven by strong in-migration of professionals and entrepreneurs, large-scale infrastructure upgrades, and luxury residential development. Its transformation began with the establishment of Maruti Suzuki in 1982, gained momentum with the first Gurugram Master Plan 2031 released in 2007, further accelerated by IT/Business Parks, Yellow line Metro expansion, Expressway connectivity and industrial development. With land availability in central Gurugram becoming saturated and commercial hubs such as Cyber City, Golf Course Road, Dwarka Expressway reaching maturity with respect to land area and price, the city’s urban footprint has steadily moved towards South of Gurugram. Which has led to the rise of new micro-markets that are witnessing growing demand real estate activity.

South of Gurugram has emerged as the city’s new frontier for development, with SPR and Golf Course Extension Road and Sohna acting as key growth corridors. Out of which Sohna stands out as a policy- driven Sohna Master Plan 2031 laying the foundation for integrated residential, commercial and industrial development. While Golf Course Extension and SPR corridors cater to premium and upper-mid housing, Sohna is steadily evolving as a complementary hub with its own real estate momentum, shaped by affordable-to-upper mid housing, industrial estates and rapidly improving infrastructure.

Growth Factors of Emerging Micro-Markets

• Sohna is just a 40-minute drive from Gurugram’s key employment hubs like Cyber Hub and Golf Course Road and less than an hour from IGI Airport.
• In the last five years, Sohna has emerged as a preferred residential hub, evolving from affordable housing to mid and upper mid-segment developments, driven by infrastructure growth and strong developer activity – offering ‘right-priced, right-sized’ homes and long-term returns on investment.
• It has recorded a graded residential apartment supply of ~8,200 housing units, with only 45% available in the primary market for sale, highlighting steady demand and absorption rate.
• Residential prices along Sohna Expressway range between INR 10,000–12,000 per sq. ft. (BUA) which is 2.3 X more affordable than other micro-markets of Gurugram.
• The presence of the 1,500+ acre IMT Sohna, buoyed by over 10,000+cr. of PPP investments, quick connectivity of Sohna to the Delhi Mumbai Expressway and evolving presence of manufacturing giants are further accelerating Sohna’s growth as a credible employment-generating micro-market and resultant premium and luxury housing location. 
• Sohna is known for its well-established social and tourist infrastructure, which is set to be further enhanced by the upcoming 10,000-acre jungle safari project.

DOG SHOW 1st & 2nd November 2025 Esha Farms & Leisure, NITTE College Road, near Ryan International School, Yelahanka, Bengaluru

India, 27th October 2025: Bengaluru, the Garden City, is all set to go wagging once again as the Silicon City Kennel Club, Bangalore (formerly Mysore Kennel Club), in association with the Bangalore Canine Club, proudly presents the 131st & 132nd All India Championship Dog Shows alongside the 59th & 60th Bangalore Canine Club Championship Shows on 1st and 2nd November 2025 at Esha Farms & Leisure, Yelahanka.

Since prehistoric times, dogs have been man’s most loyal companions. To promote awareness about canine breeding, preserve pureblood lineages, and celebrate the enduring bond between humans and dogs, kennel clubs around the world were founded by passionate dog lovers. Among them, the Silicon City Kennel Club, established in 1932 under the patronage of the Maharaja of Mysore, stands as one of India’s oldest and most reputed. The club has played a pioneering role in maintaining purebred lines and is credited with reviving the Mudhol Hound, a native Indian breed now proudly serving in the Indian Army.

This year’s show will feature 450-500 pedigreed dogs representing over 50 breeds, including Akita, Poodle, Shih Tzu, Maltese, Schnauzer, Siberian Husky, Belgian Shepherd, Afghan Hound, German Shepherd, Doberman, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Boxer, Great Dane, and Cocker Spaniel. The elegant Mudhol Hound, native to North Karnataka, will be a special highlight of the event.

An eminent panel of international and national judges will preside over the competitions, including:

• Ms. Gauri Nargolkar, India
• Mr. Shigeo Sato, Japan
• Mr. Calin Horea Simu, Romania
• Dr. Dennis Changwai Lim, Malaysia
• Mr. Wellington Hochan Kim, Malaysia
• Mr. Sanjit Kumar Mohanty, India

The event will also feature stalls by leading pet food brands, veterinary and pharmaceutical companies, and pet accessory manufacturers, showcasing innovative products and services designed to enhance pet health and well-being.

Dog lovers, families, and curious visitors are invited to witness this grand celebration of canine excellence. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to explore the fascinating world of dogs in all its diversity and charm

Get ready for a night of chills, thrills, and flavours that haunt your senses as Food Exchange, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre presents ‘Dine If You Dare’, a Halloween-themed dinner that promises a spellbinding experience. Celebrate the spirit of Halloween with a spooky twist on gourmet dining where eerie decor, hauntingly good food, and a playful ambience come together for an unforgettable evening.

Guests can look forward to a creatively curated buffet featuring wickedly delicious dishes inspired by the Halloween spirit. From sinister starters and monstrous mains to devilishly decadent desserts, every bite will be a treat worth the thrill. Adding to the experience are themed live counters and beverages designed to surprise and delight.

Whether you’re joining with friends or family, this one-night-only dinner promises to be a bewitching affair filled with laughter, indulgence, and unforgettable memories.

Event Details:
Venue: Food Exchange, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre
Date: 31st October