Archives 2025

by Mr. Sarvjit Singh Samra, MD & CEO of Capital Small Finance Bank

“The RBI’s decision to cut the Repo Rate by 25 bps to 6.25% while maintaining a neutral stance to deal with external volatility is a timely and welcome step that will help sustain economic growth and momentum. By aligning monetary policy with the Union Budget’s investment and growth focus, the RBI has reaffirmed confidence in India’s financial system and long-term economic resilience.

With borrowing costs set to ease, MSMEs, rural businesses, and semi-urban borrowers stand to benefit the most. The macroeconomic outlook, coupled with favorable growth-inflation dynamics and a well-balanced mix of fiscal and monetary policies are aligning for a pro-growth stance, creating an ideal environment for accelerated credit growth and vibrant business momentum in the economy and banking space, especially for banks like ours, with a clear focus on serving the Middle Income Group (MIG) segment with emphasis on rural and semi-urban areas (SURU).”

Mumbai 7th February 2025: Forget boring February blues—Disney+ Hotstar is here to turn your month upside down with a rollercoaster of comedy and chaos! Hold on to your funny bones because the trailer for Oops! Ab Kya? is finally here! This quirky comedy takes a wild, unexpected turn when a young woman’s perfectly planned life goes haywire after accidental artificial insemination—with her ex-crush’s sperm, no less! Packed with laughter, awkward moments, and heartfelt emotions, the show promises to be the perfect mix of romance and chaos.

Tune in to Disney+ Hotstar on 20th February 2025 and prepare for a wild, hilarious ride filled with love, laughter, and some very unexpected twists. Starring Shweta Basu Prasad, Ashim Gulati, Jaaved Jaaferi, Sonali Kulkarni, Abhay Mahajan, Apara Mehta, and Amy Aela, Oops! Ab Kya? is directed by Prem Mistry & Debatma Mandal and produced by Dice Media. The trailer gives a peek into the hilarious and heartwarming drama that unfolds across three generations of women as they navigate love, tradition, and modernity—with a side of pure madness!

Shweta Basu Prasad said, “The moment I read the script of Oops! Ab Kya?, I knew this was going to be one crazy ride! My character’s life goes from perfectly organized to utterly chaotic in seconds, and it’s all shown with such humor and heart. The trailer only scratches the surface of how wild this journey is. It’s a story of love, laughter, and finding yourself amid all the madness. I know audiences will have even more fun watching it. So mark your calendars and join us for some unforgettable chaos!”

Ashim Gulati said, “Being part of Oops! Ab Kya? was like stepping into a world where every unexpected moment leads to a bigger laugh. My character gets thrown into a bizarre situation, and watching him navigate it is both hilarious and heartwarming. The trailer gives you a taste of the madness, but the full show is packed with even more twists, humor, and, surprisingly, a lot of heart. Get ready to laugh, cry, and maybe even question how you’d handle a situation like this!”

Jaaved Jaaferi said, “What I love about Oops! Ab Kya? is that it doesn’t shy away from the absurdities of life. The humor is sharp, the emotions are real, and the characters are wonderfully relatable. The trailer shows how unpredictable and funny life can be, but what stands out is the heart at the center of all the chaos. It’s a story that’s as much about laughter as it is about family, love, and relationships. It’s going to be quite a blast!”

Sonali Kulkarni said, “When life throws you a curveball, sometimes the only thing to do is laugh—and that’s exactly what Oops! Ab Kya? is about! Playing the modern mom navigating her own set of challenges while supporting her daughter’s crazy journey was such an incredible experience. The show is funny, emotional, and refreshingly honest about family dynamics. The trailer gives a glimpse of all the fun and drama, but there’s so much more waiting for you this February!”

Abhay Mahajan said, “Imagine being madly in love in a story where literally nothing goes as planned. That’s my character in Oops! Ab Kya?, and I absolutely loved every second of it. The show is packed with laugh-out-loud moments, awkward confrontations, and some truly touching scenes. The trailer sets the tone for what’s to come, but trust me, the full show will leave you laughing and rooting for these characters. It’s the perfect mix of chaos and heart!”

by K Paul Thomas, MD & CEO, ESAF Small Finance Bank

The RBI’s decision to cut the repo rate to 6.25% is a welcome move, complementing the Union Budget’s focus on economic growth and financial empowerment. The increase in the income tax exemption limit further strengthens this outlook by boosting disposable income, especially for middle- and lower-income segments. Such policy measures play a crucial role in shaping the financial ecosystem, strengthening rural credit, controlling inflation and promoting inclusive banking. As a bank deeply committed to empowering underserved communities, we see this as an opportunity to enhance liquidity, support entrepreneurial growth, and strengthen financial inclusion—aligning with the government’s broader vision for sustainable and inclusive development.

Delhi, 7th February 2025: Smoke House Deli is crafting a Valentine’s affair, ‘Lovestruck at the Deli’ that goes beyond just a meal—it’s an invitation to celebrate love through indulgent food and meaningful connections. Whether it’s a date, a Galentine’s brunch, or a cozy evening with your dear ones, the ambiance is set to create cherished memories. Guests can also enjoy Twice the Love with Twice the Pour, with 1+1 on select wines & cocktails, and 2+2 on select beers, available all day, every day between 11th to 26th February. With a curated date-night setup and specially crafted food and drinks options, exciting offers, Smoke House Deli offers the perfect way to enjoy the season of love over delicious food and great company.

Curated date-night set-up

Smoke House Deli has crafted an intimate and immersive experience with special setups designed for romance. Guests can engage in fun, interactive activities like writing Valentine’s postcards and exchanging love coupons with playful messages like ‘Take Me Shopping’ ‘Weekend Getaway’ or ‘Tech-Free Time’, or even decorating DIY cookies, etc on the 14th,15th, and 16th of February. The décor across all outlets will bring the theme to life, with a soft candlelit ambiance, romantic mirror prompts, and more—creating the perfect setting to celebrate love.

Food & Drinks

The Valentine’s Date Night Menu is a treat for the senses, bringing together exquisite flavors and elegant presentations. The Creamy Burrata with Balsamic Red Grapes & Fresh Strawberry Compote is a perfect balance of rich, velvety cheese complimented by the sweetness of macerated grapes and the bright tang of strawberries. Seafood lovers can indulge in Fresh Oysters Served on an Ice Bath with Cocktail Sauce & Bloody Mary. For the main course, the Linguine with Seared Lobster Tail and Brown Butter Sauce is pure decadence—silky pasta coated in a nutty, buttery sauce, served with a perfectly cooked lobster tail. Meat lovers will relish the Almond Butter Stuffed – Harissa Braised Chicken with Corn Mash, where the smoky heat of harissa meets the creamy richness of almond butter.

No Valentine’s celebration is complete without something sweet, and the dessert menu is pure indulgence. Guests can try out the Cherry Tart – a buttery crust filled with luscious cherry compote, balancing tartness with just the right amount of sweetness. For chocolate lovers, the Ruby Chocolate Mousse Cake is a dream—smooth, airy mousse made with rare ruby chocolate, offering a subtle fruitiness that melts on the tongue.

The Cocktail Menu features four crafted drinks designed to inspire passion and delight. Love Story is an enchanting blend of the finest whiskey, wine, homemade dark chocolate, house spices, and zest-infused liqueur—perfectly balanced for those who savor richness. Heart Spark offers a bold mix of whiskey and wine, with a tangy twist of passionfruit & plum whey, creating a vibrant, balanced flavor. The Loving Hug is a smooth and aromatic gin-based cocktail, elevated with the crispness of rosé, the richness of cherry liqueur, and a bright citrus finish. While the Blush of Love, is a vibrant vodka-forward cocktail infused with rosé has gentle sweetness with floral undertones.

Speaking about the food curation, Chef Shamsul Wahid, Group Executive Chef at Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt. Ltd, said, “Food has a way of bringing people closer, and that’s exactly what we want to do this Valentine’s at Smoke House Deli. Our menu has been curated with much thought, featuring flavors that spark joy and cocktails that complement every conversation. From comforting classics to indulgent new creations, every dish is designed to be shared, savored, and remembered—because the best moments are always made around the table.”

National, 7th February 2025: A47.in, the destination for Indian pop culture & heritage-inspired merch, is thrilled to announce its latest collaboration with Maddock Films for the much-anticipated film Chhaava. This exclusive merchandise collection brings the grandeur and historical legacy of the film to life, offering fans a unique way to celebrate the epic story. The collection will go live exclusively on A47.in on 7th February 2025, giving fans the perfect opportunity to own a piece of cinematic history ahead of the film’s release.

Designed with A47’s signature attention to detail, the Chhaava merch range includes sweatshirts, t-shirts, and hoodies, featuring the films’ designs that consumers will love to own. The collection captures the essence of the film’s powerful narrative, blending history and heroism into wearable fashion. With prices starting at INR 699, the range is accessible to all fans who want to carry a piece of cinematic legacy with them.

Echoing this sentiment, Bhavik Vora, Founder & CEO of A47, said: “At A47, we are committed to celebrating India’s iconic stories through high-quality, thoughtfully designed merchandise. Collaborating with Maddock Films for Chhaava is an incredible opportunity to bring history and heroism into everyday fashion. We’ve ensured that every fan can find something they love, making Chhaava’s spirit a part of their wardrobe.”

Delhi, 7th February, 2025 – Cafè Amudham, the celebrated South Indian Cafè that has been delighting food enthusiasts in Bangalore since 2022, is thrilled to announce the opening of its first outlet in Delhi. Known for its perfect blend of tradition and modernity, the Cafè brings an authentic culinary experience that captures the essence of South India, promising to become a favorite among the city’s food lovers.

Since its inception, Cafè Amudham has won the hearts of patrons with its dedication to delivering the rich, vibrant flavors of South Indian cuisine. The name “Amudham”, which means “nectar” or “divine sustenance,” reflects the brand’s mission to offer nourishing, flavorful food in a chic and lively setting. With its tagline, Good Food, Happiness, Cafè Amudham celebrates the joy of sharing great meals while paying homage to South Indian culinary traditions.

From its live dosa counter to the aromatic allure of freshly brewed filter coffee, Cafè Amudham immerses guests in a sensory journey. The menu, thoughtfully crafted to include both cherished classics and rediscovered recipes from across South India, offers something for everyone. The ambiance enhances the experience, featuring an open kitchen where guests can watch their meals being prepared and instrumental music by South Indian legends that sets the perfect tone.

The Cafe’s expansion to Delhi reflects its growing popularity and the overwhelming love received from patrons in Bangalore. “We’re excited to bring the rich culinary traditions of South India to Delhi in a way that resonates with today’s generation. With a vibrant atmosphere, innovative menu, and a focus on authenticity, we’re here to create memorable dining experiences for our guests,” says Priyanka Rudrappa, co-founder and CEO of Cafè Amudham.

New Delhi/Pune, February 7th, 2025 – Thales Alenia Space, the joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), has signed a contract with NIBE Space (a subsidiary of NIBE Limited) concerning the supply of a high-resolution optical satellite, marking the first step in NIBE’s Earth Observation constellation project. This initial contract aims to establish the first operational Earth observation’s capabilities for NIBE in India by 2025.

This achievement reinforces the partnership initiated in 2024 between Thales Alenia Space and NIBE, for the deployment of India’s first private Earth Observation constellation.

The contract was signed in Pune during a ceremony graced by the presence of Honorable Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra Fadnavis. BlackSky also signed a service agreement for subscription- based imagery and analytics to deliver space-based monitoring services supporting NIBE’s various Indian customers.

“I am extremely pleased that Thales Alenia Space will contribute to developing sovereign Earth Observation capabilities in India,” said Hervé Derrey, CEO of Thales Alenia Space. “Supporting the deployment of India’s first private Earth observation constellation means a lot to our company as this is Thales Alenia Space’s first cooperation on an Indian space program. I would like to thank NIBE for putting its trust in our company. We look forward to making available our long-standing expertise and industrial capabilities in optical and radar sensors and start a promising Space cooperation with India.”

“We are proud to see our partnership with Thales Alenia Space take another concrete step forward with the signing of the contract for a high-resolution optical satellite. This is part of our larger national endeavor, aligned with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, to bolster India’s position as a leader in space technology and applications,” said Ganesh Nibe, Chairman & Managing Director of NIBE Limited. “With Thales Alenia Space’s vast global expertise and experience, we look forward to taking India’s space capabilities to newer heights.”

INOX, A pioneer in premium kitchen and bathroom storage solutions, is thrilled to unveil its latest indoor marvels – Honeycomb Panels, Ceiling Panels, and Mesh Ceilings! Designed to seamlessly blend sophistication with functionality, these cutting-edge solutions elevate both residential and commercial spaces, offering a perfect mix of style, durability, and innovation. Upgrade your interiors, the INOX way.

INOX’s latest collection sets a new standard in indoor design, offering solutions that are both aesthetically pleasing and with perfect functionality.

Honeycomb Panels: Strength Meets Versatility

Engineered for lightweight durability and elegant insulation, the Honeycomb Panel is an ideal choice for cladding, partitions, and furniture applications. Featuring an innovative core structure, it offers:

• Built for longevity without compromising on design.
• A modern aesthetic that enhances any modern space.
• Suitable for both interior and exterior applications.
• Ensuring easy installation with outstanding performance.

 Ceiling Panels: A story of Elegance

INOX Ceiling Panels redefine ceilings with a sophisticated and seamless approach. They are available in a range of textures, colors, and finishes and are perfect for residential and commercial spaces. these panels provide:

• Advanced acoustic properties for a quieter environment.
• Fire-Resistant capability added safety without compromising style.
• Designed for quick and seamless integration & Installation.

 Mesh Ceilings: Innovation at Its best

A revolution in modern ceiling design, the Mesh Ceiling transforms spaces with its open-weave pattern, offering:

• Optimized Air Circulation for a comfortable indoor environment.
• Maximizing natural and artificial light diffusion.
• A Bold Aesthetic Statement for elevating commercial spaces, lobbies, and retail environments.

 “We are constantly working to provide our clients with innovative solutions that not only meet the evolving design trends but also enhance the efficiency of their spaces. Our new range of Honeycomb Panels, Ceiling Panels, and Mesh Ceilings reflects our commitment to quality and creativity, offering various options that help architects and designers transform any space.” said Naveen Chowdhry, Director, INOX Décor Pvt. Ltd

Mumbai, 7th February: ECCO, a renowned premium Danish Footwear brand, is excited to announce the opening of its first signature store at Phoenix Palladium in Mumbai in partnership with Jaipuria. This marks a significant step in ECCO’s retail expansion in India.

 The new store, which spans 1200 square feet of carpet area, showcases ECCO’s complete collection, including ECCO Biom, ECCO Cozmo, ECCO Metropole, ECCO Street, S-Three, ECCO Sculpted, and the Shoe Care Kit. Thus, it is a one-stop destination for shoe enthusiasts of all types.

Located in one of Mumbai’s premier shopping destinations, the ECCO store offers customers an elevated retail experience. It offers a full range of ECCO products for both men and women, presenting the finest expression of the brand and catering to all occasions and styles.

Sumeet Lohia, Country Manager of ECCO, shared, “The launch of our store at Phoenix Palladium marks an important milestone for ECCO in India. This prime location gives us the opportunity to engage with Mumbai’s premium customers, introducing them to our signature craftsmanship, innovative designs, and high-quality materials. We are excited to showcase our finest collections and provide an exceptional shopping experience that reflects ECCO’s commitment to comfort, style, and innovation.”

Anurag Sharma, CEO of Jaipuria Brandz also added, “We are thrilled to bring ECCO’s renowned craftsmanship and comfort to the Indian audience, and we look forward to introducing more customers to the brand’s signature style and quality. Through strategic partnerships and upcoming store launches, we are focused on expanding our presence and making ECCO more accessible to consumers across key markets in India.”

The Phoenix Palladium store sets the tone for ECCO’s presence in India, focusing on its core values of comfort, technology, and premium craftsmanship. As ECCO continues to expand across India, customers can expect to experience the brand’s high-quality footwear and innovative designs.

By-Anuj Puri, Chairman – ANAROCK Group

In terms of the impact on the housing sector of the RBI’s decision to reduce the repo rates by 25 bps, this piggybacks on the recent taxation benefits announced in the Union Budget. As such, it is undeniably a major boost to the homebuyers, particularly for affordable housing buyers. Many first-time homebuyers who had been hesitating to take the plunge are likely to make their move now as home loan rates will reduce – as long as banks pass on the key benefits to buyers.

This dovetails well with recent trends in the housing market, which continues to see strong momentum. Reduced home loan rates can help the overall positive consumer sentiment. Given that housing prices have risen across the top 7 cities in the last one year, this breather is welcome and timely. As per ANAROCK Research, 2024 saw average housing prices rise by anywhere between 13-30% in the top 7 cities, with NCR recording the highest 30% jump. The average prices in top 7 cities collectively stood at approx. INR 7,080 per sq. ft. in 2023-end, while in 2024-end it increased to approx. INR 8,590 per sq. ft. – a collective increase of 21% annually.

Commercial real estate, especially office spaces, can also benefit from lower borrowing costs for businesses, and lower rates also make REITs more appealing since investors look for stable returns in a falling interest rate environment.

That said, the rate cut may be less effective by rising property prices if inflation remains as high as it is now. Also, it remains to be seen if banks pass on the full benefit to borrowers in a timely and seamless manner.