Archives 2026

Mumbai, Feb 27: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI), one of India’s leading two-wheeler manufacturers, has achieved a significant milestone by recording 5 million cumulative sales of Activa in Maharashtra. This landmark accomplishment has been reached over a span of 25 years, reflecting sustained customer trust and the brand’s strong foothold in one of India’s most dynamic two-wheeler markets.

The achievement is driven by consistent demand across key cities including Pune, Mumbai, Thane, Nagpur, and Navi Mumbai. These urban centres continue to shape mobility trends where two-wheelers serve as a practical and dependable mode of daily transportation. Activa’s success in Maharashtra is supported by a robust network of over 700 sales and service touchpoints across the state, ensuring accessible ownership, reliable after-sales support, and long-term customer confidence.

Commenting on the milestone, Mr. Mutsuo Usui, Director – Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said:

“Crossing 5 million Activa sales in Maharashtra reflects the deep trust customers have placed in the brand over the past 25 years. Maharashtra remains one of the most dynamic markets and this achievement highlights how dependable mobility continues to shape everyday commuting. Our focus remains on strengthening customer experience, expanding reach, and ensuring Activa continues to meet the evolving expectations of riders across the state.”

Activa’s strong resale value, extensive service network, and reputation for reliability have contributed significantly to its continued popularity. Customers regard the scooter as a practical long-term investment that balances performance, fuel efficiency, and ownership convenience. Its adaptability for both urban and semi-urban usage further enhances its appeal across age groups.

Over the years, Honda Activa has continuously evolved with technological upgrades and enhanced riding comfort, maintaining its position as a preferred family scooter. The introduction of the ACTIVA e: marked HMSI’s entry into the electric mobility segment, offering customers expanded choices while retaining the brand’s core promise of comfort and performance.

Beyond Activa, HMSI’s scooter portfolio includes Dio (110cc, 125cc and 125-X), while its motorcycle lineup spans multiple segments — 100–110cc (Shine 100, Shine 100 DX & Livo), 125cc (Shine 125, SP125 & CB125 Hornet), 160cc (Unicorn & SP160) and 180–200cc (Hornet 2.0 & NX200). The company has also expanded into the EV space with ACTIVA e: and QC1 electric scooters.

HMSI’s premium motorcycle retail formats — BigWing Topline (200cc–1800cc) and BigWing (200cc–500cc) — further strengthen its nationwide presence, offering a comprehensive portfolio ranging from the CB350 series to flagship models such as the Gold Wing Tour.

With a strong dealer and service network across India, HMSI continues to enhance accessibility and customer experience, reinforcing Activa’s legacy as a trusted mobility partner for millions.

Rome, Italy | Feb 27– Cindy McCain, Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), informed her global teams and the organization’s Executive Board, that she is planning to step down from her role in three months’ time to focus on her health.

 Executive Director McCain, who suffered a mild stroke in October 2025, returned in early January to the organization’s headquarters in Rome, Italy to resume her duties. She wasted no time assuming the many responsibilities of leading the world’s frontline agency tackling a multitude of hunger crises across the globe, but found the demands of the job were outpacing her recovery.

 “With a heavy heart, I am announcing my intention to step down as the Executive Director of the World Food Programme,” said McCain. “Serving this incredible organization has been the honor of a lifetime.

 “I’ve seen firsthand WFP’s ability to save lives in the most dangerous, destitute, and remote locations of the world, where people need us the most. Time and time again, I have seen the WFP team show up where no one else can, no matter the odds. I had truly hoped I could finish out my term, but my health has not recovered to a level that allows me to fully serve the enormous demands of this job. This is one of the most difficult decisions I have ever had to make. 

 “Over the past three years, we have delivered life-saving and life-changing assistance for millions of the world’s most vulnerable people – and this unwavering commitment will be more important than ever in the years to come. To our donors, partners and our global WFP team: thank you for everything you have done and continue to do. I will remain WFP’s biggest champion and continue to be an unwavering voice for those struggling with hunger everywhere.”

 Executive Director McCain assumed the role of WFP Executive Director on April 5, 2023. During her tenure she has driven several unprecedented changes to reform and scale the organization’s abilities including overhauling its global structure, streamlining its operations and processes, scaling innovative digital technologies, and diversifying its public and private partnership efforts. 

Mumbai, Feb 27 : This Holi, The Park Navi Mumbai is turning up the celebration quotient by hosting two distinct and high-energy experiences simultaneously on 3 March from 10 AM onwards, offering the city a choice between a large-scale colour festival and an exclusive poolside bash.

The highlight of the day is the much-anticipated Boom Colour Festival – Holi Party, celebrating seven successful years of vibrant festivities. Conceptualised in association with Boom Entertainment, the event has evolved into one of the city’s most premium Holi gatherings. Designed for those who want to celebrate in grand festival style, the experience promises top DJs, immersive colour play, large-format production, and curated food and beverage offerings all set against the backdrop of luxury hospitality.

Running alongside is the Aqua Holi Bash – Balam Pichkari Edition, an exclusive couples-only celebration crafted for guests seeking a more intimate yet equally dynamic setting. Hosted by the poolside, this edition blends vibrant music, premium ambience, and curated hospitality to create a stylish and sophisticated Holi experience. With controlled entry and a refined guest profile, the bash caters to those who prefer exclusivity while still embracing the festive spirit.

By offering two distinct formats under one roof, The Park Navi Mumbai continues to position itself as a trendsetter in experiential hospitality maintaining it’s brand ethos of Anything but Ordinary. Whether guests choose the high-energy festival atmosphere or the upscale poolside celebration, 3 March promises to be one of Navi Mumbai’s most anticipated Holi events.

Bengaluru, Feb 27: ATEN Advance, the leading provider of KVM, AV/IT connectivity, and management solutions, will participate in Automation India South 2026, scheduled to take place from March 12 to 14, 2026, at the Chennai Trade Center. Visitors can experience ATEN’s latest innovations at Booth No: C-40.

At the expo, ATEN will demonstrate cutting-edge solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of control rooms, industrial automation environments, enterprise IT operations, and mission-critical applications.

Key Product Highlights at the ATEN Booth

One of the main attractions at ATEN’s booth will be the VW1608 Video Wall Processor, a powerful and flexible solution designed for modern control room environments. The VW1608 enables seamless management of multiple video sources and displays, delivering high-resolution visuals with real-time performance. It is ideal for applications such as monitoring centers, smart factories, transportation hubs, and security operations where situational awareness is critical.

ATEN will also showcase the KE8980MR KVM Extender, engineered to deliver high-performance remote access with low latency and uncompromised video quality. This solution allows operators to control systems securely from remote locations, making it particularly suitable for industrial automation, broadcast environments, and centralized IT control rooms.

Another key highlight is the KG0032 KVM over IP Switch, which enables scalable, IP-based KVM deployments across distributed networks. Designed for flexibility and secure access, the KG0032 allows organizations to manage multiple systems over standard IP infrastructure, simplifying operations while enhancing control and efficiency.

The KG0032 will be demonstrated in combination with the KA8585 Console Unit, which provides a streamlined user interface and centralized access to multiple servers and systems. Together, these solutions enable seamless, secure, and efficient management of complex IT and automation environments.

Driving Automation and Smart Infrastructure

ATEN’s participation in Automation India South underscores its commitment to supporting India’s growing focus on automation, smart infrastructure, and digital transformation. By integrating professional AV and advanced KVM technologies, ATEN helps organizations improve operational efficiency, enhance decision-making, and ensure reliable system control in demanding environments.

Visit ATEN at Automation India South 2026

Visitors, system integrators, consultants, and enterprise decision-makers are invited to visit ATEN at Booth C-40 to experience live demonstrations and interact with ATEN experts to understand how these solutions can address real-world automation and control challenges.

Feb, 27: On the occasion of World Protein Day, Optimum Nutrition, the world’s 1 sports nutrition brand, today unveiled Project Protein Thali 2026, the next phase of its consumer awareness campaign focused on making every day Indian meals more protein-inclusive. As part of the initiative, the brand also announced the launch of Gold Standard Unflavoured Whey, its additive-free whey protein offering, developed to meet the growing demand for versatile and ingredient-transparent nutrition solutions.

As awareness around nutrition and fitness continues to rise in India, protein is increasingly being recognised as an essential macronutrient for muscle health, recovery, and overall wellbeing. However, a significant gap still exists between daily protein requirements and actual intake. Simultaneously, consumer preferences are evolving toward simpler, cleaner supplements with minimal ingredients, particularly among users who want to avoid artificial flavours and sweeteners or are looking for more versatile ways to incorporate protein into everyday diets.

Building on the ideology to make every home cooked meal protein rich, Project Protein Thali 2026 initiative aims to demonstrate how small changes in meal composition can significantly improve protein intake by making protein the hero of the plate. The initiative also expands the role of protein beyond post-workout consumption, positioning high-quality unflavoured whey as a convenient ingredient that can be added to regular foods such as rotis, dals, smoothies, and snacks to create more balanced meals.

Complementing the campaign, the newly launched Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey now Unflavoured with whey protein isolate as 1 ingredient, offering high quality protein that supports muscle recovery and performance. Crafted around a clean-label philosophy, it contains zero artificial flavours, zero added sweeteners, zero colors, and no additives, addressing growing consumer demand for cleaner ingredients and simplicity. Its neutral taste allows consumers to customize flavour easily while blending seamlessly into shakes, coffee, oats, and both sweet and savory everyday recipes, making protein easy to incorporate beyond the post workout routine.

Commenting on the campaign and new product launch, Sumit Mathur, CEO of Glanbia India said,

“Protein awareness in India is clearly on the rise, with more people recognising its role in supporting performance, recovery, and overall health. At the same time, we are witnessing a growing preference for cleaner, simpler nutrition solutions. With Project Protein Thali, our goal is to demonstrate how small, practical changes can make everyday meals more protein-inclusive. The launch of Gold Standard Unflavoured Whey further strengthens this commitment by offering a versatile option that can be easily incorporated into daily diets. As the world’s 1 sports nutrition brand, we remain focused on delivering trusted, high-quality nutrition that fits seamlessly into modern lifestyles.”

With Project Protein Thali 2026 and the launch of Gold Standard 100% Whey – Unflavoured, Optimum Nutrition continues to advance its mission of making high-quality protein more accessible and relevant to Indian consumers. By combining practical nutrition education with clean, trusted products, the brand aims to inspire individuals to make small yet impactful changes to their daily meals, reinforcing protein as an essential part of everyday nutrition and active lifestyles.

Raaga & Raasa of Indian Classical Music

In collaboration with Eternal Oasis Gurugram

Gurugram, Haryana | Feb 27 – Swaranjali Delhi, dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Indian classical music, proudly presents Baithaki 2026 – Raaga & Raasa of Indian Classical Music, an evocative evening celebrating the depth, devotion, and dynamism of India’s timeless musical heritage. The event is being organized in collaboration with Eternal Oasis Gurugram, a distinguished Centre for Art, Culture, and Spirituality.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, 21st March 2026

Time: 5:30 PM onwards

Venue: Anandam | 1st Floor, Eternal Oasis

Sector 42, Gurugram, Haryana – 122002

Baithaki 2026 promises an immersive classical music experience in an intimate baithak-style setting, where audiences can connect deeply with the raagas, emotions (raasa), and spiritual essence of Indian classical traditions.

Featured Artists:

• Master Arjun Ahluwalia – Sitar
• Smt. Sonali Natta – Vocal
• Dr. Rama Sundar Ranganathan – Vocal
• Shri Subrata De – Sitar

Accompanying Artists:

• Shri Jitendra Swain
• Pt. Siddhartha Chatterjee
• Shri Mukesh Bharadwaj

The evening will showcase a rich blend of instrumental and vocal renditions, offering audiences a soulful journey through classical compositions rooted in tradition yet resonating with contemporary sensibilities. Each performance is thoughtfully curated to highlight the intricate beauty of raaga expression and the emotive power of Indian classical music.

Eternal Oasis Gurugram, known for nurturing artistic and spiritual dialogue, provides the perfect ambiance for this gathering — creating a serene environment where music becomes meditation and performance transforms into shared experience.

Baithaki 2026 aims not only to present exceptional artistry but also to foster appreciation for India’s classical heritage among diverse audiences, including young rasikas and seasoned connoisseurs. Through such initiatives, Swaranjali Delhi continues its mission to create meaningful platforms for artists while strengthening the cultural fabric of society.

Music lovers, patrons of the arts, and members of the community are warmly invited to be part of this enchanting evening celebrating the Raaga and Raasa of Indian Classical Music.

RSVP & Contact:

Swaranjali Delhi

Website: www.swaranjali.org

Eternal Oasis Gurugram

Website: www.eternaloasis.org

Contact: +91-9910300319

Be a part of this unforgettable celebration of melody, devotion, and artistic excellence on 21st March 2026 at Anandam, Eternal Oasis, Gurugram

Chandigarh, Feb 27: Sintex, part of Welspun World and India’s leading and trusted manufacturer of quality water storage solutions, has partnered with Sideways to unveil a new television campaign announcing the launch of Sintex Eterno, an industry-first water storage tank with a 50-year warranty. The film will be aired on CTV (connected TV) during the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The 20 seconds TVC showcases the legacy brand’s latest flagship offering, built around the brand promise, “Sintex Sabse Safe Hamesha.” As Sintex celebrates 50 years, the brand commemorates this milestone with a 50-year warranty promise that reflects longevity and generational trust.

 Designed to endure across decades, Sintex Eterno symbolises a philosophy of long-term thinking and the brand’s enduring commitment to safety, hygiene, durability and trust across generations. Known for redefining standards in the water management category through continuous innovation, Sintex brings a bold and refreshing perspective to category communication with this film.

The campaign was developed in collaboration with Sideways. With a 50-year warranty at the heart of the proposition, the creative agency chose to interpret longevity through a generational lens rather than focusing solely on product features – delivering the message through a witty and engaging storyline. Set inside a retail store, the 20-second TVC captures a light-hearted yet impactful moment where the shopkeeper unexpectedly addresses an 8-year-old kid as the primary customer instead of the father. The narrative gradually reveals the logic behind this quirky interaction, a water tank backed by a 50-year warranty is not merely a purchase for today, but a long-term buying decision that also safeguards the next generation. The film cleverly emphasizes Sintex’s decades-long legacy of durability, reliability and generational trust.

With its sharp and unconventional storytelling, the campaign moves beyond traditional product advertising to spark a larger conversation around long-term value and future-ready investments. By combining the tangible assurance of a 50-year warranty with an emotionally resonant narrative rooted in family decision-making, the campaign positions Sintex Eterno as more than just a water tank it is a hygienic, safe and future-proof solution designed to outlast expectations. In many ways, the 50-year warranty becomes symbolic, reflecting a brand that has itself earned trust for nearly 50 years and continues to build for the next 50.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Yashovardhan Agarwal, Director, Sintex and Managing Director, Welspun BAPL said,

“At Sintex, we believe true innovation lies in building solutions that are not only reliable today but also resilient for decades to come. With Sintex Eterno’s industry-leading 50-year warranty, we are setting a new benchmark in the water storage category and reinforcing our long-standing commitment to safety, hygiene and durability. As we celebrate 50 years of serving Indian households, it was only fitting to introduce a product that carries forward that same longevity in its promise. The 50-year warranty isn’t just a feature it’s a promise that neither you nor your children will ever have to worry about your water tank. A reflection of the trust Sintex has built over decades, and our commitment to safeguarding generations to come. A water tank is a long-term infrastructure decision for any household, and its impact extends far beyond the present generation. Through this campaign, we wanted to move beyond functional communication and highlight a powerful insight that when you choose a product built to last, you are safeguarding your family’s future as well. This film reflects Sintex’s legacy of trust across Indian homes and our promise of ‘Sabse Safe hamesha.’

Abhijit Avasthi, Founder, Sideways, said:

“When a product carries a 50-year warranty, the story must carry the same horizon. Our approach was to interpret longevity not as a statistic, but as a promise that spans generations. The campaign presents Eterno as an enduring presence in homes, one that reflects stability, foresight and responsibility. It positions Sintex as a brand thinking not just about today’s need, but the legacy it leaves behind.”

Mumbai, Feb 27: The House of Abhinandan Lodha (HoABL), India’s largest branded land developer, announced Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan as the face of HoABL Nagpur Marina, its marquee waterfront plotted development in Nagpur.

Kartik Aaryan’s relationship with HoABL began as an investor, with his purchase of a 2000 sq ft plot at the Sol-de-Alibaug project. This trust-led relationship has now naturally evolved into Kartik endorsing Nagpur Marina based on his conviction in HoABL’s transparency in processes, proven track-record in quality and timelines, consumer-centricity, and long-term vision.

“I am excited to be associated with HoABL as the brand ambassador for its prestigious project – Nagpur Marina. Land is the most enduring form of legacy, and HoABL approaches it with transparency and convenience. What drew me to the brand was its clarity of vision, disciplined execution, and a seamless digital experience, especially for someone like me who is constantly on the move”, said Kartik Aaryan.

Nagpur Marina is an exclusive waterfront plotted development in South Nagpur, envisioned as an international lifestyle enclave. Spanning a 78-acre branded land development, the project is anchored by a 2.91-acre man-made sea and beach at its core, complimented by a 28,000 sq.ft. Grand Marina Clubhouse and thoughtfully curated range of lifestyle amenities.

Designed as a limited, destination-grade address for long-horizon investors, Nagpur Marina’s scale, scarcity, and legacy value have already attracted strong HNI participation, with over 350 families from more than 10 countries investing in the project.

Samujjwal Ghosh, Chief Executive Officer, The House of Abhinandan Lodha said, “Kartik’s association with us began as an investment decision, which is the strongest vote of confidence any brand can earn. His decision to now be the face of Nagpur Marina reflects the values we focus on every day – trust, transparency, and building assets designed to endure. Waterfront-led and thoughtfully planned, Nagpur Marina is a unique address, and we are excited to have Kartik represent that story.”

Strategically located next to the Samruddhi Expressway and the New Nagpur IBFC, Nagpur Marina offers a rare opportunity to own plotted land in Nagpur, designed for discerning, long-term investors.