Sharanya Season 5 × Aqua Divine Season 2 Grand Audition Creates Buzz Ahead of Finale

Kolkata, 22nd October 2025: The Sharanya × Aqua Divine Grand Audition, recently held in Kolkata, turned out to be a spectacular success  setting the perfect stage for the much-awaited Sharanya Season 5 x Aqua Divine Season 2.

Sharanya Season 5 × Aqua Divine Season 2 Grand Audition

The event witnessed an overwhelming response from talented participants across the city, all eager to showcase their skills in modeling, dance, and performance. The audition marked a significant milestone in the lead-up to Sharanya Season 5, which this year celebrates the theme “Women in Sports”  a tribute to strength, grace, and empowerment.

The grand audition, powered by Aqua Divine, was graced by prominent judges and industry experts who were impressed by the enthusiasm and talent displayed by the participants. The shortlisted candidates will now advance to the final event on 1st November at EMC, starting 5 PM onwards, which promises to be an inspiring blend of fashion, culture, and social awareness.

Adding star power to the evening, Bollywood celebrity Aman Verma will join as the Guest of Honour and Celebrity Anchor at the grand finale, making the event even more special for participants and audiences alike.

Speaking about the occasion, the organizers shared, “Sharanya has always been more than just an event  it’s a platform for emerging talent and a celebration of creativity. This collaboration with Aqua Divine makes this Season even more special, highlighting the importance of hydration, health, and empowerment in every journey.”

The audition event was attended by influencers, media representatives, and fashion enthusiasts, adding glamour and vibrancy to the evening.

Stay tuned as Sharanya Season 5 × Aqua Divine Season 2 gears up for its grand finale on 1st November at EMC, 5 PM onwards  where talent meets opportunity and empowerment takes the spotlight.

ITC Mangaldeep Joins UP Government’s Grand Deepotsav, Creating History with a Guinness World Record of lighting 26,17,215 diyas

October 20, 2025: ITC Mangaldeep, India’s leading incense brand, joined the grand Ayodhya Deepotsav initiative hosted by the Government of Uttar Pradesh and conducted a unique effort to bring devotees across India together digitally. As part of this initiative, Mangaldeep launched an Augmented Reality (AR)-powered campaign, enabling people from every corner of the country to virtually experience the Deepotsav and light their Diyas, contributing to the collective illumination of Ayodhya. This year’s grand Diya lighting ceremony also set a new Guinness World Record in the ‘Highest Number of Oil Lamps Lit’ category, with 26,17,215 Diyas illuminating Ayodhya — surpassing last year’s record of 25,12,586 Diyas, making the 2025 Deepotsav truly historic.

deeya

Through this initiative, Mangaldeep continued its mission to make devotion more inclusive, accessible, and experiential, using technology to connect millions of devotees to the spiritual energy of the festival. Devotees participated via the AR-powered microsite at where every Diya lit virtually corresponded to an actual Diya lit in Ayodhya on 19th October, creating a shared, pan-India celebration.

While the initial plan was to light 1 lakh Diyas, ITC Mangaldeep received an overwhelming 1.3 lakh digital Diyas through our AR initiative. In response, we decided to light 1.3 lakh Diyas on ground as well, symbolizing a collective message of faith, unity, and positivity. The Mangaldeep Khushboo Path further enhanced the ambience, infusing the air with divine fragrance through 25 five-foot Agarbatti sticks and 25 Maha Havan Cups.

Rohit Dogra, Divisional CEO of Matches and Agarbatti Division at ITC, said, “At ITC Mangaldeep, we believe devotion is timeless, though the way we experience it continues to evolve. This year’s initiative not only united millions of devotees across India digitally but also became a part of history as the Ayodhya Deepotsav achieved a Guinness World Record for the highest number of oil lamps lit. We are truly grateful to have contributed to this momentous celebration that illuminated Ayodhya — and the hearts of devotees across the nation — with faith, unity, and devotion. It marks another step forward in making devotion more immersive, inclusive, and meaningful in today’s digital era.”

Shri Nikhil Tikaram Funde, I.A.S, District Magistrate, Ayodhya, shared, “We are delighted to have ITC Mangaldeep join the government’s Deepotsav celebrations. Their initiative to bring people together digitally has allowed devotees from across the country to participate in Ayodhya’s sacred festivities, reinforcing the spirit of unity and devotion that Deepotsav represents.”

With this effort, ITC Mangaldeep reaffirmed its pioneering role in reimagining devotion, showing that faith and technology can coexist to create experiences that inspire, connect, and uplift.

Alembic Pharma Gets USFDA Approval for Triamcinolone Injectable

Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited announces USFDA Final Approval for Triamcinolone Acetonide Injectable Suspension USP, 40 mg/mL

Vadodara, 20th October, 2025: Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited (Alembic) today announced that it has received final approval from the US Food & Drug Administration (USFDA) for its Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) Triamcinolone Acetonide Injectable Suspension USP, 40 mg/mL Single-Dose Vials, 200 mg/5 mL and 400 mg/10 mL (40 mg/mL) Multiple-Dose Vials. The approved ANDA is therapeutically equivalent to the reference listed drug product (RLD), Kenalog-40 Injectable Suspension, of Bristol-Myers Squibb Company. Triamcinolone Acetonide Injectable Suspension USP is indicated for various autoimmune, inflammatory, and other conditions where oral therapy is not feasible. Refer label for a detailed indication.

Triamcinolone Acetonide Injectable Suspension USP, 40 mg/mL, has an estimated market size of US$ 96 million for twelve months ending June 2025 according to IQVIA.

Alembic has a cumulative total of 227 ANDA approvals (206 final approvals and 21 tentative approvals) from USFDA.

Five Emerging Artists Shine at 34th Ravi Jain Memorial Foundation Awards

Dhoomimal Gallery concludes its two-week exhibition celebrating India’s next generation of contemporary artists

New Delhi, October 20, 2025: Dhoomimal Gallery, India’s oldest modern art gallery, successfully concluded the 34th Annual Ravi Jain Memorial Foundation (RJMF) Exhibition with an inspiring Awards Ceremony that marked the grand culmination of the two-week-long showcase. From 60 participants selected out of over 500 nationwide entries, five exceptional emerging artists, Santanu Dey, Shuvam Sen, Naina Somani, Soumitra Das, and Ayesha Sultana Pramanik; were honoured as winners.

Ravi Jain Memorial Foundation Awards

This year, in recognition of the extraordinary quality and diversity of submissions, the jury decided to extend the awards to five winners instead of the usual four—a reflection of the remarkable creative talent on display. Each awardee received ₹1,00,000 along with continued mentorship and opportunities to advance their artistic journey.

Speaking about the awards, Uday Jain, Director of Dhoomimal Gallery, said, “This year’s edition truly stood out for the calibre and originality of the participating artists. The jury’s decision to honour five awardees is a testament to the depth of emerging talent in India today. The Foundation remains deeply committed to nurturing these voices and continuing my father’s vision of supporting the future of Indian art.”

The winners were selected by a distinguished jury panel comprising Vibha Galhotra, Rekha Rodwittiya, Anish Gawande, Arunkumar H.G., and Ina Puri—renowned figures representing diverse perspectives across art, curation, literature, and cultural discourse.

The 34th RJMF Exhibition, held from September 29 to October 15, 2025, presented over 120 artworks spanning painting, sculpture, printmaking, video, and digital art. The showcase drew strong participation from collectors, curators, artists, and art enthusiasts, reaffirming Dhoomimal Gallery’s role as a leading platform for emerging Indian talent.

Instituted in 1991 by Smt. Uma Jain in memory of Ravi Jain (1936–2000)—the visionary gallerist who transformed Dhoomimal into a cornerstone of Indian modern art—the Ravi Jain Memorial Foundation continues to carry forward his belief that “for the art movement to perpetuate and grow, we must constantly nurture new talent.”

Over the past three decades, the RJMF Exhibition and Awards have evolved into one of India’s most respected platforms for emerging contemporary artists, offering visibility and recognition at formative stages of their careers.

Today, under the leadership of Uday and Sunaina Jain, the Foundation and Dhoomimal Gallery together remain dedicated to promoting contemporary voices, mentoring young artists, and shaping a vibrant ecosystem for Indian art.

From Awareness to Action: Aster Whitefield Hospital Organizes Pink Bike Rally & Launches Specialized Breast Clinic

Bengaluru, 18th October 2025: Solidarity, empowerment, and the drive to bring change were on full display today as hundreds of bikers rallied through the city to promote one powerful cause—early detection and awareness of breast cancer. The Pink Bike Rally, organized by Aster Whitefield Hospital, witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 200 super bike riders eager to amplify the message of proactive health screening and community support, reflecting the hospital’s ongoing commitment to women’s health.

Pink Bike Rally

The rally started and concluded near Aster Whitefield Hospital and covered key locations, including Varthur Kodi, Brookfield, and Kundalahalli Signal. Riders wore pink attire and carried placards with awareness messages, transforming the cityscape into a rolling campaign of hope and empowerment. More than just a symbolic ride, the event also marked the launch of Aster Whitefield’s specialized Breast Clinic, further cementing the hospital’s promise to focus on preventive and comprehensive women’s care.

“This rally is more than a visual statement—it represents the strength of collective action,” said Global Director – Aster International Institute of Oncology – GCC & India, Lead Consultant – Surgical & Gynaecological Oncology & Robotic Surgeon, HIPEC & PIPAC Super-specialist;

Aster Whitefield Hospital.  “Early detection remains the most powerful weapon we have against breast cancer, and initiatives like this encourage people to take action, get screened, and spread awareness.”

Adding to this, Dr. Ashwin K R, HOD – Department of Surgical Oncology, Aster Whitefield Hospital, said, “Our goal is to transform awareness into consistent action. With the launch of our Breast Clinic, we aim to provide women with easy access to specialized screening, diagnosis, and treatment—all under one roof.”

In India, breast cancer continues to be one of the most prevalent cancers affecting women, accounting for one out of every four cancer cases. Reports suggest that nearly 50% of cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, primarily due to a lack of awareness and limited access to screening facilities. Even today, late detection remains the leading cause of increased mortality among women with breast cancer.

Initiatives like the Pink Bike Rally not only reflect the hospital’s larger vision of fostering community-centric healthcare but also encourage individuals to take charge of their health and support those affected by cancer. Through regular screening drives, educational workshops, and community programs, Aster Whitefield aims to improve outcomes and save lives by promoting early detection and accessible breast health services.

7 Celebrity number plates and the stories behind them

India, 18th October 2025: When your garage looks like a car museum, how do you make each ride stand out? For India’s biggest celebrities, the answer lies in a small but powerful detail the number plate. Whether it’s lucky digits, emotional codes, or just a flash of personality, these plates are rolling reflections of their owners.

And if you’re wondering where they find rides worthy of those iconic numbers welcome to Big Boy Toyz (BBT), the brand that’s made owning a dream machine as real as a swipe of the credit card.

Here’s a spin through seven star-studded plates and the stories they tell.

  1. Shah Rukh Khan – 0555

The Signature: Every car in SRK’s enviable fleet wears 0555.

The Story: He’s never revealed the reason behind it and that’s peak Shah Rukh. A mix of mystery and magnetism, his cars mirror the man himself: classic, consistent, and impossible to ignore.

  1. Ranbir Kapoor – 0008 / 8000

The Signature: The Kapoor’s’ favourite digit 8.

The Story: For Ranbir, 8 is more than a number. It’s a love letter to his mother, Neetu Kapoor, born on July 8. Every engine roar is a little reminder of home and heart.

  1. Ranveer Singh – 6969

The Signature: 6969, stamped boldly across his machines.

The Story: Because Ranveer doesn’t do subtle. No numerology, no emotion just full-throttle personality. Quirky, bold, and a little outrageous, it’s his way of saying, “I drive it like I live it.”

  1. Amitabh Bachchan – 0002 (or anything that adds up to 2)

The Signature: Big B likes his numbers balanced.

The Story: A firm believer in numerology, Amitabh’s cars almost always circle back to 2. It’s his personal formula for harmony and perhaps a nod to the duality of stardom and simplicity.

  1. Sanjay Dutt – 4545

The Signature: 4545 rules his garage.

The Story: Sanju Baba’s number plate is his good luck charm. Through decades of highs and lows, one thing’s remained constant 4545, a symbol of faith and resilience.

  1. Rohit Sharma – 3015

The Signature: 3015 shines on his Lamborghini Urus SE.

The Story:  30 is his jersey number; 15 marks his children’s birthdays. It’s the perfect fusion of the Hitman’s professional glory and personal pride precision and emotion in equal drive.

  1. Sachin Tendulkar – 9999

The Signature: The Master Blaster’s Ferrari 360 Modena once flaunted MH01 AD 9999.

The Story: A believer in the power of 9, Sachin stuck with his lucky number long after selling the car. To him, it’s not a plate it’s a personal emblem of achievement.

When luxury meets legacy: The BBT Connection

These stars may have garages full of Ferraris, Bentleys, and Lamborghinis but their love for wheels isn’t just about horsepower; it’s about identity.

That’s where Big Boy Toyz comes in the country’s ultimate destination for pre-owned luxury cars. Think of it as the backstage pass to the world of premium machines, where every car is vetted, polished, and primed for its next celebrity story.

From the iconic 555s to the sentimental 8s, BBT has witnessed countless dream cars find their perfect owners and some even find their lucky numbers. Because owning luxury isn’t just about driving fast; it’s about driving your story.

Shoppers Stop Ltd.’s Q2 FY26 financial results

Mumbai, 18th October, 2025: Shoppers Stop Ltd., a leading department store with premier fashion and beauty brands, has declared its results for the quarter ended 30th September 2025.

Commenting on the Q2FY26 results, Mr. Kavindra Mishra, MD and CEO, Shoppers Stop Ltd, said, “I am pleased to share our sustained good performance and outgrowing quarter after quarter. Our Core business has delivered stupendous growth through number of initiatives such as premiumization, developing our own IPs to drive the premiumization, Engagement with First Citizen Customers, Higher enrolment of Premium Black Card customers, Increased Personal Shoppers Share, etc. resulting in sales .

growth of 7%. More importantly the department LFL grew by 9.4% .Our sales growth has further amplified by Customer Entry growth of 6% LFL, a positive growth for the first time in many years. Our EBITDA grew by 42% and Profit before tax turned the corner from a loss in FY25 to a profit of Rs.9 Crs in Q2.

Our new business, i.e. INTUNE and ss.beauty.in, which we have been investing has been performing appreciably, despite headwinds.  The sales growth has been 75%, with marked improvement in the business in the last quarter, particularly in September 2025. 

Our distribution continues to grow more than 100% with new additions from the staples of beauty companies globally. We will be launching brands by EuroItalia, a global player in luxury beauty industry, known for promoting the “Made in Italy” craftsmanship worldwide, with luxury fragrances and cosmetics.

As we step into busy festive season I expect the demand to increase and stabilize. With a combination of Government Sops and Wedding season, I am confident the coming season should deliver strong results.

Performance of strategic pillars in Q2FY26:

  • First Citizen – First Citizen Members contributed 83% to overall sales, (69% repeat and 14% new). Black card enrolments reached 32K and Silver card enrolments 208K, Our Premium Black Card members contributed 19% to the overall sales.

  • Beauty –Beauty segment delivered sales of Rs. 331 Cr (+22% YoY). Opened three beauty outlets including ARMANI beauty and NARS boutiques at Palladium, Mumbai, along with an SS Fragrance store at EDM Mall, Ghaziabad. 
  • Private Brands – Private Brands sales at Rs 161 Crs with a contribution of 13% to the overall sales and 17% to apparel business. Continue to focus on premiumization with innovative design and natural fabrics. Improved productivity driving surge in profitability. Indian wear brands “Bandeya” and “Kashish” grew by 19%. Kids category delivered sales and volume growth of 17% and 30% respectively.
  • INTUNE –Sales contribution from INTUNE stood at Rs. 70 Cr (+70%). Launched 2.0 with a focus to enhance the store experience with modern fixtures, wider and appealing facades and improved in-store communication. We have been witnessing sequential improvement month over month, with September registering highest growth besides positive Like to Like sales.
  • Store Expansion – In the quarter, we launched 3 INTUNE stores, 3 Beauty stores and 1 Department store with CAPEX Rs 34 Cr 

Rashtra Purush Atal Paid Glorious Tribute to Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee

Bhubaneswar: The historic Rabindra Mandap in Bhubaneswar witnessed a grand and heartfelt homage to the legacy of former Prime Minister Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji, as the two-day festival “Atalnama” started with excitement. Organized by Nrutyadham, in association with Ministry of Culture ,Govt of India ,New Delhi the two day event brought together a diverse audience, including dignitaries, artists, intellectuals, and the public, to celebrate the 100th birth anniversary of the beloved leader.

atal bihari bajpayee

Day 1st of the event began with a captivating Exhibition, “Atalnama,” curated by Guinness World Record Holder Shashanka Sekhar Dash (Paperman India), which attracted large crowds. The day was filled with enchanting Odissi vocal and dance performances by renowned institutions including Suravi, Bharati Nrutya Mandir, Saranchana Berhampur, and Mirambika Fine Arts & Music College, showcasing the rich cultural heritage that Shri Vajpayee championed.

The final evening saw Shri Krushna Chandra Patra, Hon’ble Minister of Housing & Urban Development, presiding as Chief Guests. The grand finale was a powerful theatrical performance, “Rashtra Purush Atal,” written by Biswanath Pati and directed by Dhira Mallick of Satabdira Kalakar, which movingly depicted the life and times of the great leader.

A pinnacle of the event was the conferment of the “Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji Award” upon Jagannath Pradhan, BJP Leader, Odissi exponent Dr. Snehaprava Samantaray and Padmashree Guru Sri Durga Charan Ranbir and Shri Biswa Bhusan Harichandan, Former Governor of Andhra Pradesh. The award recognized their outstanding contribution to preserving and promoting India’s classical dance traditions, embodying the cultural excellence and national pride deeply cherished by Shri Vajpayee.

“The overwhelming response to ‘Atalnama’ has been deeply moving,” said Dr. Subhashree Pattnaik of Nrutyadham. “We set out to create an event that was not just a commemoration, but a living, breathing celebration of Atal Ji’s ideals—from democracy and development to poetry and culture. We are humbled and grateful to all the guests, artists, and attendees who made this tribute a fitting one.” On this occasion, Ms. Rajashree Pattnaik conducted the program on behalf of Nrutyadham.

The event successfully served as a powerful reminder of Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s enduring vision for a progressive, inclusive, and strong India, inspiring a new generation to carry his legacy forward.

Buyers Depart with Gains and Inspiration, Set to Reunite in Spring 2026

BUYERS LEAVE WITH GAINS, LEARNING, INSPIRATION AND PROMISES TO MEET AGAIN in spring 2026

Delhi/NCR , 18th October 2025 : The 60th milestone edition of the IHGF Delhi Fair-Autumn 2025 held from 13th to 17th October 2025 at the India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida Expressway concluded today amidst much fanfare.

Dr. Neeraj Khanna, Chairman, EPCH said, “This was a grand edition with big displays and a monumental outlook. We have collectively raised the benchmark—organisers, exhibitors and the entire handicrafts sector alike. The upcoming February 2026 edition is poised to go even further. Buyers who leave with promises to return have already expressed their anticipation. IHGF Delhi Fair–Autumn 2025, recognised globally as a premier sourcing platform, welcomed international buyers from across the world. They engaged with over 3,000 exhibitors, artisanpreneurs showcasing regional specialties, as well as a wide range of products emerging from EPCH and the Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India’s skill development and design-integrated initiatives.”

Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Director General in the role of Chief Mentor, EPCH & Chairman IEML, added, “Our exhibitors, now part of a global fraternity through EPCH led participations in prominent international fairs across India’s key export markets, bring back valuable insights into buyer expectations and market trends. They apply this learning to their products and visual presentations at the fair. This year, their extra effort was clearly visible in the unique and compelling displays designed to engage and attract buyers. New product innovations have translated into increased business, with many exhibitors expanding their buyer lists. Regular visitors shared that every edition offers something new to be amazed by. The expansive scale and seamless layout, with clearly defined product segments and spacious displays, made this edition particularly impressive. For many IHGF patrons returning after a few seasons, it felt like a refreshing and welcome change.”

Mr. Sagar Mehta, Vice Chairman, EPCH, further informed, “As the fair heads towards the sourcing season’s culmination we have observed our regular buyers stay consistent with their business with our exporters. In general, sustainability remained a key focus, with many buyers specifically seeking eco-friendly and compliant collections in home and lifestyle products. European buyers sourced a diverse range of items, including furniture, home accents, giftware, houseware, bags and Christmas accessories. Basketry and utility products made from natural materials such as jute, hemp, coarse riverside grass, cane and bamboo also drew considerable interest. Textile buyers appreciated the wide selection of home furnishings and kitchen linen. Those sourcing fashion accessories, such as scarves, stoles and shawls expressed satisfaction with the variety on offer. Gift items, paper products, interior hardware and components likewise presented buyers with ample choice.”

Shri Avdesh Agarwal, Chief Convenor, EPCH said, “Through the five days, the fair was graced by visits of Shri Jitin Prasada, Union Minister of State for Ministry of Commerce & Industry and Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, Govt. of India; Shri Rakesh Sachan, Cabinet Minister for Micro Small and Medium Enterprises, Khadi and Villages Industries, Sericulture Industries, Handloom and Textile, Govt. of Uttar Pradesh; and Shri Nand Gopal ‘Nandi’, Cabinet Minister for Industrial Development, Export Promotion, NRI and Investment Promotion, Government of Uttar Pradesh. Several government dignitaries and esteemed guests like, Shri Mithlesh Kumar Kataria, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha from Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh; Shri Alok Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises and Export Promotion, Government of Uttar Pradesh/Export Commissioner, IDC; Ms. Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India; Dr. M Beena, Development Commissioner (Handlooms), Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India; Ms. Medha Roopam, IAS District Magistrate Gautam Buddh Nagar (Noida); many other visited.

Sharing his observation and feedback from trade visitors to the fair, Mr. Rajat Asthana, President, IHGF Delhi Fair-Autumn 2025 remarked, “Buyers are appreciating the inclusion of artisans and upcoming entrepreneurs alongside the big and established players. For most, coming to IHGF Delhi Fair is as pleasant an experience as their long and continued association with EPCH and the innovated product lines of their suppliers. And as they share, many are leaving with orders and some are on the verge of finalizing.”

Jo Littlejohn, a buyer from UK was happy to be here and meet her Indian exporter friends and source lighting and home products for her departmental store in London. “I’ve noticed significant changes since my last visit. Everything feels more advanced, from technology like the app to the facilities available. While prices have increased slightly due to tariffs, the quality and innovation on display make it absolutely worthwhile,” she said. Charlie Selechnik from Guatemala, a second generation buyer says, India remains his key sourcing destination for furniture and home decor products. Gemma Robertso from Australia, a buyer keen on Indian handmade jewellery and women’s fashion, including bags was on her maiden visit to the fair. “I feel very enthusiastic about everything I see here”, she exclaimed. Urko Atxotegi from Spain who deals in home décor and home textiles for the Europen market shared, “This is actually my tenth visit. I keep returning because the products are beautifully made, and the quality of Indian handicrafts always stands out. The prices have remained quite stable over the years, which is a good thing for consistent buyers like me.”

Speaking about supportive events as value additions to the fair, Mr. Simrandeep Singh Kohli, Vice President, IHGF Delhi Fair- Autumn 2025 informed, “Our Panel Discussions and Awareness Seminars conducted by eminent industry experts from India and overseas offered insights into current topics like, Beyond Seasons; Digitization for Exporters; From Maker to Market; Best Industrial Practices; Local Cash & Carry in Just-in-time (JIT) model, etc. were well received.”

Mr. R K Verma, Executive Director, EPCH further shared, “Approximately 6736 buyers and buying representatives and domestic volume buyers from 112 countries visited the fair that resulted in business enquiries worth Rs.3000 crores.” “Buyers visited from USA, UK, France, Germany, Australia, The Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Spain, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Argentina, South Africa and many more. Brands like The TJX Companies-USA, XXXLUTZ-Germany,  LANDMARK GROUP-DUBAI, VCNY HOME-UNITED STATES, BENJARA INC.,-USA, KALALOU INC., -USA, LOLOI INC-USA, TARGET-USA, INTRATUIN-NETHERLANDS, KAVEHOME-SPAIN, MAYA COLLECTIVE-CANADA, POMAX-BELGIUM, SUGITA ACE CO-JAPAN, TABREZ, THE DRESSING ROOM-SAUDI ARABIA, AMEDEUS-FRANCE, ARTISAN FURNITUE-UNITED KINGDOM, BAUHAUS PTY-AUSTRALIA, ReteHome-Russia, Dantone-Home-Russia, Midbar-Israel, Brazil-LP Imports, LonLo-Japan, Leruche-Turkey, Le-forze-NewZealand etc. had their sourcing representations at the fair,” he further added.

Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts is a nodal institution for promotion of exports of handicrafts from the Country and create brand image of magic of the gifted hands of millions of artisans and crafts persons engaged in production of home, lifestyle, furniture, interior accessories, textiles, fashion jewellery & accessories, gifts and more products in different craft clusters of the Country. The overall Handicrafts exports during the year 2024-25 was Rs. 33,123 Crores (US $ 3,918 Million) Mr. R. K. Verma, Executive Director, EPCH, further said.

Festive Season Boosts Homebuying Across India, CREDAI Sees Strong Residential Demand

BY: Mr. Shekhar Patel, President, CREDAI

The housing market is witnessing a strong surge in homebuying sentiment across India this festive season. Traditionally a period of optimism, this year’s festive season is further buoyed by affordable EMIs and strong consumer confidence. The RBI’s repo rate stability at 5.5% has made home loans predictable and manageable, enabling more families to realise their aspirations of homeownership.

This positive momentum is further supported by GST rationalisation on key construction materials, a robust pipeline of project launches, and rapid infrastructure expansion across metros and Tier II–III cities. Thoughtfully planned communities and improved connectivity are unlocking demand in emerging locations, creating new opportunities for both buyers and investors.

At CREDAI, we believe that the convergence of affordability, availability, and aspiration will drive a significant uptick in residential demand this festive season  reinforcing real estate’s role as a cornerstone of India’s economic growth and the nation’s journey towards Viksit Bharat @2047.