Mumbai, Jan 30: The Indian Performing Right Society Ltd. (IPRS) is set to return to the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (KGAF) 2026 with the IPRS Stage, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing original, folk, and regional music within one of India’s most respected multidisciplinary cultural festivals.

More than a performance platform, the IPRS Stage is a purposeful cultural initiative aimed at creating sustained visibility and meaningful engagement for diverse music traditions. By positioning music within the broader artistic dialogue of KGAF—where literature, visual arts, design, and performance converge—the IPRS Stage brings underrepresented musical voices into the public consciousness and fosters deeper audience appreciation.

At a time when digital algorithms increasingly influence music discovery, curated cultural platforms such as the IPRS Stage play a vital role in offering context, authenticity, and human connection. The initiative bridges generational and regional divides, enabling audiences to experience tradition-rooted and original music in a contemporary festival setting, while providing artists with credibility, reach, and new avenues for connection.

The IPRS Stage at KGAF 2026 will feature two distinctive performances that reflect this vision:

• 1 February 2026: Goa-based band Black Sapphire will showcase regional language music on a national cultural platform, highlighting the resonance of local voices when given the right exposure.

• 6 February 2026: Abhijit Pohankar’s Global Varkari Project will present the rich Varkari devotional tradition through a modern sonic framework, demonstrating how heritage can evolve while retaining its essence.

Speaking on the importance of such platforms, Alison Gonsalves, Lead Singer and Songwriter, Black Sapphire, said,

“Original music is deeply personal, especially when it comes from a regional language and lived culture. Platforms like the IPRS Stage at Kala Ghoda validate our work and help audiences connect more deeply with the stories and identities behind the music.”

Maestro Abhijit Pohankar, classical pianist, fusion music producer, and conceiver of the Global Varkari Project, added,

“The Varkari tradition emphasizes devotion, social equality, and righteousness through music. Presenting this ancient form with a modern sound allows it to remain relevant today. Platforms like the IPRS Stage ensure that folk and traditional music are experienced with dignity, relevance, and respect.”

Highlighting IPRS’s broader vision, Mr. Rakesh Nigam, CEO, IPRS, said,

“Platforms like the IPRS Stage are essential to sustaining India’s musical diversity. By partnering with festivals such as the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, we create spaces where artists can be discovered and audiences can engage meaningfully with the cultural roots of our music.”

Brinda Miller, Hon. Festival Director, Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, noted,

“KGAF has always stood for artistic integrity and cultural diversity in the public sphere. The IPRS Stage furthers this vision by spotlighting original and tradition-rooted music, inviting audiences to engage with music as a reflection of identity, history, and creative purpose.”

As the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival continues to serve as a vibrant meeting point for India’s creative communities, the IPRS Stage stands as a powerful model of how cultural institutions can support artists, educate audiences, and ensure that India’s rich musical legacy is preserved, celebrated, and carried forward into the future.

By:-  Rohan Khatau, Director, CCI Projects.

The upcoming Union Budget 2026 is expected to play a critical role in shaping longterm capital flows into the real estate sector. Targeted focus on infrastructure investment, clarity on REIT and InvIT taxation and incentives that encourage private and institutional participation can enhance liquidity and transparency across the market. Policy continuity and fiscal discipline will be key to sustaining investor confidence, enabling developers to plan responsibly and scale projects aligned with evolving urban demand. Tax reliefs definitely ease out decision making for the potential buyers sitting on a fence so overall taxation easing will benefit the sector largely too. A forward looking budget can further strengthen real estate’s role as a stable engine of economic growth

By:  Nikhil Madan, Managing Director, Mahima Group

The Tier II cities are ushering in a new phase of residential development with homebuyers looking a cusp of better infra with a more balanced lifestyle. The Union Budget can now compliment this growth by focusing on improvements in urban infrastructure, connectivity as well as sound policies for upgraded premium housings. Stronger planning and investment will help Tier II cities grow into stable, well-rounded urban centres over the long term. Additionally, rationalisation of taxation is the key pillar which benefits buyers, especially the ones investing for the first time in a home. Overall,  with the right policy push in this budget, tier 2 cities can emerge as India’s next engines of sustainable  residential growth. 

Jan 30: PVR INOX Limited, India’s largest and most premium cinema exhibitor, brings back an extraordinary lineup of films this February that explore love in all its shades and forms. The month begins on February 6 with Shah Rukh Khan’s Devdas, a timeless epic of unrequited love. This is followed by Mani Ratnam’s Yuva on February 20, a fiery, idealistic tale of youth, change and love, leading to a powerful end to the month on February 27 with Tere Naam, an intense story spearheaded by Salman Khan. 

Talking about the February re-release line-up, Niharika Bijli, Lead Strategist, PVR INOX Ltd., said,

“Our February curation brings the myriad shades of love from young, tender romance to layered, complex emotions. Each of these films has left an indelible mark on audiences, and we are delighted to bring them back to the big screen. At PVR INOX Ltd, our endeavour is to continue nurturing a culture where cinema and the talent behind it are celebrated, and where films are not only revisited by loyal fans but also discovered and experienced by an entirely new generation of moviegoers.”

Over the past one and half year, PVR INOX Ltd. has transformed the cinematic calendar with a strategic and passionate commitment to re-releasing iconic films, reaffirming its role not just as India’s leading exhibitor, but as a cultural curator and champion of cinematic heritage. These carefully curated re-releases have done far more than fill screens  they have reignited conversations, drawn multi-generational audiences back to theatres, and enabled viewers to rediscover classics and landmark cinema in the most immersive way possible: on the big screen. From cult classics and regional gems to international masterpieces, these re-releases have consistently delivered strong footfalls and deep emotional resonance, accounting for over 4% of total footfalls at PVR INOX Ltd., a powerful testament to the enduring appeal of great films and the audience’s desire to experience them theatrically. Building on this impressive legacy of successful re-engagement with audiences, PVR INOX now presents February’s special program of films that explore love in all its complex, vivid forms. With Devdas, Yuva and Tere Naam, this curated lineup continues the tradition of celebrating cinema’s emotional power on the big screen.

The February curation is part of PVR INOX Ltd.’s ongoing initiative to honour exceptional talents and landmark films from India and around the world. By bringing timeless films back to the big screen, PVR INOX not only revives the magic of great cinema but also creates a rare opportunity for a new generation to discover these cinematic masterpieces, and for the generation that grew up with them to relive their nostalgia and charm.

Starting February 6 audiences have a unique opportunity to relive the best of love stories on the big screen. Booking details and theatre listings will be available soon on the official PVR INOX Ltd.’s app and website.

Kishangarh, Jan 30: Tilak Marbles, highlights a transformative trend in contemporary interior design—restraint in material usage, proving that less truly can be more when it comes to creating stronger, enduring spaces.

In today’s age of visual abundance, interiors that embrace fewer materials and finishes are emerging as the most compelling. This design philosophy prioritizes clarity over complexity and intention over accumulation, allowing spaces to feel richer, calmer, and more resolved.

“Restraint forces clarity and confidence,” said Mr. Praveen Gangwal, Founder of Tilak Marbles. “When you work with fewer materials, every choice matters more. A well-chosen stone does not need to be paired with many others. Its strength lies in its ability to hold a space together quietly, without constant reinforcement.”

By limiting materials, designers enhance cohesion, proportion, texture, and the play of natural light, allowing surfaces to become architectural foundations rather than decorative highlights. This approach reduces visual fatigue, encourages longevity, and ensures interiors remain relevant over time.

Restraint is increasingly recognized as a hallmark of luxury in contemporary Indian interiors. It demands precision in material selection, detailing, and execution, enabling spaces to respond naturally to light and climate while creating a sense of grounded confidence.

Tilak Marbles’ curated collections reflect this philosophy, focusing on singular stone palettes that carry entire projects with quiet authority. As the company emphasizes, the power of restraint lies not in minimalism, but in deliberate, thoughtful design that prioritizes strength, coherence, and lasting appeal.

On 24th January, MultiFit celebrated the spirit of Republic Day with the MultiFit Circle – Runners Edition, a city-wide fitness initiative that brought Pune’s fitness community together through movement.

With every MultiFit branch across Pune hosting its own 5 km run, members stepped out to celebrate unity, discipline, and consistency, values that resonate deeply with both fitness and the essence of Republic Day. The runs weren’t about timing or competition, but about participation, camaraderie, and showing up together.

The event was further elevated through a collaboration with Healthyome, highlighting the importance of nutrition as a key pillar of overall wellness. Post-run, all participants were provided with 200 ml of fresh watermelon juice or orange juice, along with a complimentary breakfast salad meal, supporting recovery and mindful eating.

The MultiFit Circle – Runners Edition reinforced MultiFit’s commitment to building a strong, connected fitness community in Pune, one that believes fitness extends beyond gym walls and thrives in shared experiences.

Payoneer Global Inc., the financial technology company enabling business growth across borders, announced the expansion of its global payment platform with new collection capabilities in Indonesia and enhanced local collection services in Mexico.

These additions enable customers to transact and receive funds from local buyers and ecommerce platforms faster and more cost-effectively, helping businesses access new growth markets as global trade flows evolve.

Payoneer empowers small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in more than 190 countries and territories to operate globally, whether selling on major ecommerce marketplaces or directly to other businesses. A key part of its offering is enabling SMBs to act as local entities in the markets they serve.

As part of this strategy, and in collaboration with local providers, Payoneer has launched local collection capabilities in Indonesia and Mexico. These capabilities build on Payoneer’s existing local collection infrastructure across North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia Pacific, helping customers access new demand and expand in fast-growing, strategic trade corridors.

Indonesia, the largest ecommerce market in Southeast Asia, accounts for more than half of the total online business volume within the ASEAN bloc. With this launch, Payoneer enables SMBs to collect funds directly from local marketplaces and businesses in Indonesia, providing greater control over foreign exchange management and access to a burgeoning trade corridor.

Payoneer’s expanded Mexican peso (MXN) collection services reduce friction for global sellers entering the market while supporting shifting international demand. Customers can now collect funds across multiple channels, including major ecommerce marketplaces.

Derek Green, SVP of Treasury and Payment Services at Payoneer, said,

“Global trade is dynamic – reshaping in response to macro factors and trade policy. For over 20 years, Payoneer has supported and enabled our customers’ global ambitions. By expanding our capabilities in critical markets like Mexico and Indonesia, we continue to empower our customers to grow in fast-growing markets, leveraging our ecommerce marketplace ecosystem to access customer demand on Amazon Mexico, Walmart, Mercado Libre, and Shopee.”

Mexican and Indonesian local collection services are rolling out to Payoneer customers worldwide. Through 2026, Payoneer plans to further expand local collection capabilities in high-growth markets, including Latin America and Asia Pacific, scaling the infrastructure that supports the global ambitions of nearly 2 million customers.

ITM University, Raipur Legal Aid Clinic Organizes Drug Awareness and Health Guidance Workshop under NALSA Scheme

Raipur, Jan 30: The Legal Aid Clinic of ITM University, Raipur organized a workshop on Drug Awareness and Health Guidance under the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) scheme. The objective of the workshop was to create awareness among students about the harmful effects of substance abuse and to encourage them to adopt a healthy and responsible lifestyle.

Dr. Lakshmi Murthy, Pro Vice Chancellor of ITM University, Raipur, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Addressing the students of Mother’s Pride School, she emphasized the importance of managing academic stress wisely during student life and staying away from substance abuse. Dr. Murthy highlighted that making informed and healthy choices at a young age plays a crucial role in shaping a successful future.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Jellis Subhan, Head of the Department, Faculty of Law, advised students to remain vigilant about the serious physical, mental, and social dangers associated with drug addiction and to consciously avoid such habits.

As part of the program, students of the Faculty of Law, ITM University presented an impactful street play focusing on drug awareness, which was well received by the audience. A short film titled “Dhuaan”, depicting the ill effects of drug abuse, was also screened for the students.

Dr. Lakshmi Murthy, Pro Vice Chancellor, ITM University, Raipur, said, 

“Managing academic stress wisely and staying away from substance abuse are essential for students to build a healthy and successful future.”

Students and teachers from Mother’s Pride School, along with professors and students of ITM University, were present at the event. The program was conducted by Dr. Shivli Shrivastava, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Law, ITM University.

The workshop concluded with a strong message encouraging students to lead a drug-free life and to spread awareness in society about the harmful consequences of substance abuse.

The iconic Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (KGAF) returns for its 26th edition, transforming Mumbai’s historic Kala Ghoda precinct into a vibrant celebration of arts, culture, and community. Scheduled from Saturday, January 31 to Sunday, February 8, 2026, from 10 am to 10 pm. Asia’s largest multidisciplinary street arts festival invites audiences to experience a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation under this year’s theme: “Ahead of the Curve.”

Symbolising foresight, creativity, and leadership in the arts, the theme reflects KGAF’s enduring commitment to staying at the forefront of cultural expression. Like a winning steed leading the pack, KGAF continues to set the pace for artistic excellence and inclusive engagement.

Organised by the Kala Ghoda Association, the festival has grown from a local initiative in 1999 into one of India’s most beloved cultural events, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. With 400+ programmes, 100+ art installations across 15 verticals, the 2026 edition will span over 25 exclusive indoor and outdoor venues, including K. Dubash Marg, CSMVS Museum, Cross Maidan, David Sassoon Library, and Horniman Circle Garden.

All events are free to register and attend, continuing KGAF’s mission to make the arts accessible to all, by all, and for all. The festival also champions sustainability, diversity, and pedestrian-friendly urban design, contributing to the transformation of Kala Ghoda into Mumbai’s premier cultural & tourist district.

Brinda Miller, Chairperson of the Kala Ghoda Association & Festival Director, shares: 

“As we embark on the milestone 26th edition of the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, we are thrilled to continue our journey of celebrating art, culture, and community in the heart of Mumbai. This year’s theme, ‘Ahead of the Curve’, holds special significance as we aim to surpass last year’s Silver Jubilee celebrations. With the unwavering support of the BMC and collaborators such as EXIM Bank, Milton, MTDC, and the Department of Tourism, Maharashtra, we are confident this edition will be a memorable celebration for enthusiasts of varied art forms.”

Join us in celebrating over a quarter-century of creativity, community, and cultural legacy.

JIMS Rohini Hosts Prestigious “Meet the Editors” Workshop Under Biodiversity & Finance Risk Forum

New Delhi, Jan 30: Jagan Institute of Management Studies (JIMS) Rohini, in collaboration with Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU), is set to host the distinguished “Meet the Editors” Workshop at its Rohini campus. The workshop is being organized as part of the larger Biodiversity and Finance Risk Forum, an academic initiative aimed at exploring the intersection of sustainability, biodiversity, and financial risk.

The event will bring together globally acclaimed journal editors, offering researchers and scholars a rare opportunity to engage directly with leaders in academic publishing. The panel of eminent editors includes, Prof. Brian Lucey, Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Economic Surveys, Prof. Andrew Urquhart, Editor, International Review of Economics and Finance, Prof. Sabri Boubaker, Editor-in-Chief, Journal of International Financial Management & Accounting, Prof. Laszlo Vasa, Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Central Asian Studies

The workshop will focus on best practices in academic publishing, evolving global research standards, and emerging themes in biodiversity-linked financial risk and sustainable finance. Participants will gain insights into publishing expectations, research positioning, and pathways to enhancing the global visibility of their scholarly work.

Speaking ahead of the workshop, Dr. Pooja Jain, Director JIMS Rohini said,

“Global collaboration in research is essential to addressing complex, interconnected challenges like biodiversity loss and financial risk. Platforms such as the ‘Meet the Editors’ Workshop help bridge the gap between researchers and leading academic journals, enabling high-quality work to gain the global visibility it deserves. At JIMS, we believe that strong academic publishing standards are key to shaping evidence-based solutions for a more sustainable and financially resilient future.”

This initiative reflects JIMS Rohini’s commitment to advancing high-quality research and fostering meaningful engagement between academia and international publishing platforms. By connecting Indian researchers with globally recognized editors, the institute aims to strengthen research excellence and encourage impactful contributions in areas critical to sustainable development and financial resilience.

The “Meet the Editors” Workshop will also serve as a precursor to the main symposium and paper presentation sessions scheduled to be held at GGSIP University on 31 January 2026, further amplifying dialogue on sustainable finance, biodiversity risk, and evidence-based policymaking.