Romanch Mehta OPENS UP on her sibling-like bond with Baghin co-actor Aneri Vajani

It’s common for co-actors to be friendly both on and off screen, but it’s rare for them to develop a sibling-like bond. Actor Romanch Mehta and Aneri Vajani, who are currently seen together in the show Baghin, have formed such a special bond. Their fun-loving relationship has captured the attention of many. Romanch recently shared about their brotherly bond, expressing that Aneri has become like family to him.

He expressed, “Aneri and I share a special bond, both onscreen and offscreen. As we worked together, our bond grew stronger. We would often have lunch together and spend time between shots, which deepened our friendship. Eventually, she began addressing me as ‘bhai (brother),’ which was a heartwarming gesture. While on set, we made an effort not to interrupt each other during scenes. Sometimes, to lighten the mood, she would playfully take on the role of a director, giving me cues through the monitor, and all on the set used to burst into laughter.”

“Acha lagta hai jab kisi ke saath kaam karte hai aur kuch rishte zindagi bhar ke liye ban jaate hai (It’s fulfilling to form lasting connections while working with someone, and some relationships truly endure for a lifetime). It is difficult to express our bond in words. We have supported each other through thick and thin, both on and off the screen,” he added.

Even though Baghin is airing on Star Bharat and Atrangi App, the shooting for the show has concluded. However, Romanch and Aneri’s connection extends beyond their work on the show. Discussing this, Romanch revealed, “Aneri, Mridula (Oberio) and I meet every 3 to 4 days and stay connected through calls. I have a few close friends from the industry and now Aneri is also a part of my small world. She is a family to me now. She’s very lively and has a happy-go-lucky personality. Even if she is feeling sad, she won’t show it and always wears a smile on her face. She brings a lot of positivity to the environment. She’s a nice person, a great actor, and I truly enjoy her company.”

“Baghin” tells a thrilling story of conflict between humans and animals. Romanch Mehta stars as Shekhar, alongside co-stars Aneri Vajani, Zeeshan Khan, Ansh Bagri, Iqbal Azad, Mridula Oberoi, and Krrip Kapur Suri. The plot follows Gauri (Aneri Vajani), who loves Veer (Zeeshan Khan) but ends up marrying his brother, Deva (Ansh Bagri). Tragedy strikes, and Gauri becomes possessed by the spirit of a tigress (Baghin), seeking revenge against those responsible for her death.

Epson Joins Earth Hour 2024 in Support of Global Environmental Action

TOKYO, Japan, February 22, 2024 –

Seiko Epson Corporation (TSE: 6724, “Epson”) has been confirmed today as the first-ever international corporate partner of Earth Hour. Known for its “lights off” moment, Earth Hour is a worldwide environmental movement that aims to raise awareness on nature loss and the climate crisis. By becoming the international corporate partner of Earth Hour 2024, which will take place this year at 8:30 PM local time on March 23 around the world, Epson aims to inspire millions of people to join the movement and take energy-saving action for the benefit of the planet.

TOKYO

Earth Hour was started by WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) in 2007 as an event to show our collective support for the planet through the symbolic action of people turning off their lights for an hour around the world at the end of March every year. Since then, it has grown to become the world’s largest grassroots environmental movement inspiring people in more than 190 countries and territories to take action for our one shared home. In 2023, Earth Hour achieved more than 410,000 hours pledged on its “Hour Bank,” an online counter of positive actions for our planet.

For Earth Hour 2024, Epson and Earth Hour are encouraging people to take simple energy-saving actions on the global Hour Bank – easily accessible on both Epson and Earth Hour websites. Epson is activating its global network of sales companies to help raise awareness of the simple energy-saving actions, available in over 26 languages, throughout their respective countries and regions. In addition, on the day of Earth Hour on 23 March, Epson is a key partner for Earth Hour events in Singapore (Wisma Atria Shopping Mall) and Japan (LalaPort Toyosu in Tokyo). (Check the dedicated site for details.)

Epson has committed to becoming carbon negative and eliminating the use of non-renewable underground resources in its Environmental Vision 2050. To these ends, the company is undertaking a series of initiatives, including transitioning to 100% renewable electricity at all Group sites worldwide1 at the end of 2023. Epson is also dedicated to creating products and services that consume less electricity and reduce the environmental burden.

Epson global president Yasunori Ogawa said, “Epson is proud to be the first International Corporate Partner for Earth Hour. Since our founding, we have had a strong commitment to coexisting with the community and to ongoing activities aimed at preserving the natural environment. While fulfilling our mission as a company, we also believe in the importance of everyone joining to take action. Even small actions can make a big difference if enough people participate. Through this partnership, we hope to expand understanding and empathy for environmental activities and provide an opportunity for as many people as possible to act.”

“Our partnership with Epson exemplifies a collaborative approach when it comes to this year’s Earth Hour,” says Yves Calmette, Senior Director, Brand and Network Communications, for Earth Hour International. “Together we can unleash the power of collective action – but we need everyone’s involvement to make it the Biggest Hour for Earth yet. We want Earth Hour to be a moment of celebration for our one shared home – our planet. Earth Hour isn’t just about acknowledging the problem, it’s about celebrating the solutions. It is our beacon of hope, so that we can build a brighter, more sustainable future for all,” adds Calmette.

Epson and Earth Hour encourage everyone to take simple actions to save energy every day. Join us on 23 March, 8:30 PM to Give an hour for Earth – saving energy, it’s just a simple switch!

Titan launches its First Ever Ceramic Fusion Automatic Watch Collection

Delhi, 22nd February 2024: Titan introduces its newest line of automatic watches with the Ceramic Fusion Automatics collection, where sophistication seamlessly meets innovation. Breaking new ground, this collection marks a significant milestone as the brand combines two of its strongest lines of expertise – ceramic build and in-house automatic movement to launch a fresh new blend of designs. This collection not only showcases Titan’s dedication to craftsmanship but also introduces ceramic fusion with an in-house automatic caliber. The Ceramic Fusion Automatics Watch collection blends the unique features of ceramic—durability, scratch resistance, lightweight feel, hypoallergenic properties, and a range of color options—with our proprietary automatic movement.

TITAN

Featuring the in-house 7A20-S movement with 22 jewels, this caliber is designed with an impressive -10 sec to +30 sec/day accuracy and a robust 36-hour power reserve. The skeletal dial face elegantly showcases the intricate automatic movement, while the dual-tone solid link stainless steel and ceramic bracelet embodies refined aesthetics. With a domed crystal and concave dial, this collection introduces a touch of modern charm, creating a versatile timepiece that effortlessly transitions from day to night—a perfect fusion of automatic mastery and chic ceramic allure.

Designed for the discerning men with a taste for the exquisite and unique, each timepiece in this collection represents more than just a reliable accessory; it encapsulates a statement—a fusion of design, technology, and timeless elegance. Priced between Rs. 24,995 and Rs. 26,995, the Ceramic Fusion Automatics Watch collection is paving way for a year filled with exciting line-up of automatic watches.

stay tuned as the brand continues to unveil more captivating designs, each a testament to unwavering commitment to excellence in watchmaking.

Vietjet Wins Prestigious Award for Human Resource Digital Transformation Strategy

Chennai, February 22, 2024) – Vietjet, Vietnam’s leading new-age carrier, has been crowned with the “Best Human Resource Digital Transformation Strategy Award” at the 32nd World HRD Congress in Mumbai, India. The award ceremony brought together over 200 speakers and 3,000 global leaders in the field of Human Resources and industry experts from over 119 countries and territories worldwide.

The airline is highly recognized for its strategic process, which involves leveraging digital technologies to enhance and optimize HR processes, functions, and human capital management. These initiatives aim to increase efficiency, effectiveness, and employee experience while also contributing to the development of personnel within the organization. Some of the key criteria assessed include initiatives in translating and combining vision with action, HR strategy, and cultivating competencies for the future to enable the organization to be future-ready.

Vietjet is an internationally diverse workplace with over 6,000 officers and employees from more than 50 countries and territories. The airline has been voted the best workplace in Asia and a leading employer for many years. With effective management policies, especially in human resources, Vietjet is among the few airlines that quickly recovered and expanded its flight network after the pandemic.

With “People” identified as the top priority resource, the airline is committed to sustainable development with a core focus on human resource development. The company continuously innovates and fosters creativity to maximize the potential of its workforce, providing opportunities for employees’ self-development and contributing to the growth of the company, the aviation industry, and the community in the digital age.

The Belgian Waffle Co launches “Hunt For The Coolest Fans” Campaign

Mumbai, February 2024:

The Belgian Waffle Co, reveals its latest campaign: ‘Hunt for the Coolest Fans’ along with Gen Z Star Palak Tiwari. Known for her vibrant personality, she perfectly embodies the spirit of the “Coolest Fan” campaign. Her widespread appeal among Gen Z audiences makes her an ideal choice to inspire participants to unleash their creativity while relishing their favorite waffles from the No. 1 waffle brand in India.

Palak Tiwari x Belgian Waffle 4

The campaign concept is all about capturing the essence of enjoying delicious waffles in a fun and creative way. The #MyWaffleMove contest participants will have a chance to win iPhone 15, Bose Headphones, Boat Smartwatches, and 1000+ vouchers from the Belgian Waffle Co, perfect to engage the brand’s target audience. It’s a celebration of individuality and the love for exquisite waffle experiences.

“We are excited to have Palak Tiwari to represent all our cool fans who brim with joy while relishing their favorite waffles, at our stores or in the comfort of their homes. Her energy and enthusiasm align perfectly with the spirit of the ‘Coolest Fan’ campaign. We believe she will inspire our participants to bring their best moves forward for the contest,” said Vrushali Parab, Head of Marketing at The Belgian Waffle Co.

In a delightfully playful video, the vivacious Palak Tiwari is spotted indulging her favorite Triple Chocolate waff-wich at The Belgian Waffle Co’s flagship store at Chowpatty. She showcases her unique “Waffle Move,” combining the joy of devouring the treat with some fun dance moves. Palak, a true waffle aficionado, extends a lively invitation to all her fans, encouraging them to join the excitement of the #MyWaffleMove contest.

After receiving a lot of traction in the pre-buzz phase by the leaked employee footage and various meme pages creating fun content around the same, the brand is now keeping the excitement levels high amongst its target by collaborating with influencers across different sectors like lifestyle, food & entertainment. The campaign will further see social media collaborations with brands like Boat, Swiggy, and other on-ground activations to enhance campaign reach further.

Cancer of the Gastrointestinal tract on a sharp rise in India

Dr Neeraj Chaudhary_Yatharth

Dr Neeraj Chaudhary, Director – GI-HPB Oncology, GI Surgery, Minimally Invasive Surgery (Robotics and Laparoscopic) and Liver Transplant, Yatharth Superspeciality Hospital, Greater Noida and Noida 110

Gastrointestinal cancers impact the GI tract and the digestive system including Esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, etc. These cancers can originate from any organ in the abdomen as ulcers or masses and can metastasize to the other parts in no time if go unnoticed. While timely diagnosis increases the chances of better treatment and prolonged survival of the patient, delayed treatment impacts the outcome of the treatment and may also have adverse consequences on the quality of life. The rise in cases also show the low level of awareness due to which early detection isn’t possible.

From the past few years, the incidences of gastrointestinal and HPB cancer cases have been rising at an exponential rate in our country, particularly due to the lack of awareness associated with the subject. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment have significant importance in preventing mortality from such diseases. On the other hand, the rapidly growing advancements in the field of science and technology, newer treatment options like minimally invasive GI surgeries, Laparoscopic surgeries and Robotic surgeries have completely changed the face of cancer treatment at a greater scale. Minimal invasive GI surgeries have become a great addition to the field as they provide an innovative approach in the treatment of cancer while ensuring minimal blood loss, quicker recovery and shorter hospital stays.

Recent data shows that developing countries are facing a sharp increase in cancer incidence. But at the same time, there have been numerous advancements in cancer care. However, the majority of our population is not able to avail of the benefits of these developments due to a sheer lack of knowledge and myths associated with the subject.

One of the biggest reasons for the rise in such cases is lack of awareness among the general public about the early signs and symptoms which leads to delayed diagnosis and treatment causing poor prognosis. Poor lifestyle choices including unhealthy dietary intake with dependence on junk food, along with binge alcoholism and erratic sleep patterns are some of the major known causes of the exponential rise in such cases. Early and prompt treatment can help prevent the rise in GI diseases.

As of the Globocan India 2020 report, gastrointestinal (GI) cancers continue to pose a significant health burden in the country. The data reveals varying incidences and mortality rates across different types of GI cancers. Colorectal cancer, a common GI malignancy, showed notable incidence, with a substantial number of new cases reported. Similarly, stomach cancer demonstrated a significant presence in the population. The mortality rates associated with GI cancers underline the severity of these conditions, emphasizing the need for effective prevention, early detection, and treatment strategies. The Globocan India 2020 findings underscore the importance of ongoing efforts to address the challenges posed by GI cancers and to implement comprehensive public health measures to reduce the incidence and mortality rates associated with these diseases.

With the advancement of technologies, minimal access to cancer surgeries has also become commonplace. Experts can adequately resect difficult tumors including colon cancers, stomach cancer, including liver metastases which suggest a late-stage disease, with minimal incisions or even laparoscopically, in certain cases.

Some of the key diagnostic tools used for detecting GI cancers:

Endoscopy:
Colonoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera (colonoscope) into the rectum to examine the entire colon. It is effective in detecting colorectal cancers and polyps.
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD or Upper Endoscopy): This involves the insertion of a scope through the mouth to examine the esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of the small intestine. It is commonly used for detecting esophageal, stomach, and duodenal cancers.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS):
EUS combines endoscopy with ultrasound imaging, providing detailed images of the digestive tract and surrounding structures. EUS is particularly useful for assessing the extent of GI cancers, staging tumors, and guiding biopsies.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan:
CT scans are used to obtain detailed cross-sectional images of the abdomen and pelvis. They are valuable for detecting tumors, evaluating lymph nodes, and determining the extent of cancer spread.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
MRI can provide detailed images of soft tissues, making it useful for evaluating the liver, pancreas, and other abdominal organs. It is often employed for staging and planning treatment.
Biopsy and Pathological Examination:
Tissue samples obtained during endoscopy, surgery, or other procedures are examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer and determine its type and grade.
Tumor Markers:
Blood tests measuring specific biomarkers associated with certain GI cancers may aid in diagnosis and monitoring treatment response. Examples include CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen) for colorectal cancer.
PET-CT Scan:
Positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography can be used to detect abnormal metabolic activity, helping to identify areas of possible cancer spread.

Minimally invasive surgeries have numerous advantages for patients in comparison to traditional surgeries including minimal scars, faster recovery, reduced pain, shorter duration of hospital stays, and lesser post-surgery complications. The preference for Robotic Surgery has increased after the pandemic since it reduces hospital stay and post-surgical complications.

People still need to be aware that with recent advancements in oncology, cancer is completely treatable. And early diagnosis can, not significantly increase the chances of survival, but also provide a better quality of life.

24th INBUSH ERA World 2024 Conference begins at Amity University

Amity International Business School, Amity University organized a three-day mega international business horizon conference “INBUSH ERA World Conference 2024” on the theme “Empowering Change through Collaboration, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Communication and Community” to provide knowledge to students in the context of business and research. The conference was inaugurated by Prof. (Mrs.) Eli Clemons, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Education), Monash University, Australia, Dr. (Mrs.) Mandy Mock, Founder & CEO, AppliedHE, Singapore, Dr. Ashok Kumar Chauhan, Founder Chairman, Amity Education Group, Prof. Rogelio Minana, Vice Provost (Global Engagement), Drexel University, USA , The event was conducted by Dr. Rohit Verma, Dean, Darla Moore College of Business, University of South Carolina, Dr. Gurinder Singh, Vice Chancellor, Amity Group and Dr. Balvinder Shukla, Vice Chancellor, Amity University.

Inaugurating the conference, Prof. (Mrs.) Eli Clemons, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Education), Monash University, Australia, said, “Founded in 1958, Monash University has a 60-year legacy that inspires students to question, challenge and influence. We have earned global reputation in research, teaching and enterprise and are committed to creativity and innovation. Monash University is one of the top 50 universities in the world . Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Clemmons highlighted the areas of teaching, research values and said “ we are trying to address the current challenges of the era such as climate change, geopolitical security and community prosperity. We promote collaborations with other institutions of the world to provide a global exposure to students, including developing collaborations with Amity University in India”.

Dr. Mandy Mock, Founder & CEO, AppliedHE Singapore, said that Universities undertake research as very important activity apart from academics, therefore it is necessary to motivate research. She said that such business and research based conferences provide an opportunity to the students for global exposure and are beneficial for their professional life. Dr. Mock said that this three-day conference organized by Amity will develop mutual global cooperation between institutions.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ashok K Chauhan, Founder President, Amity Education Group said, “At Amity, we provide value and culture based learning to students and create an ecosystem of research and start-up which helps students become global citizens. Dr. Chauhan said that such conferences provide global exposure to the students and for the holistic development of the students, guidance of experts like you is necessary which will bring about a big change in their lives. Today, our country is on the path of a developed India and the role of Amity youth in nation building will be crucial.

Prof. Rosellio Minana, Vice Provost (Global Engagement), Drexel University, USA, said that such large conferences are beneficial for students and institutions. We are also focusing on the flow of students and teachers to each other’s institutions by developing collaborations with reputed institutions like Amity in India. He advised the students that humanity is most important and education helps in becoming better human beings.”Collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, communication and community are the cornerstones of any development, so it’s important to understand their importance and every educational institution should work towards that,” said Dr. Rohit Verma, Dean of the University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore College of Business.

Dr. Gurinder Singh, Group Vice Chancellor, Amity Group welcomed the delegates present and said that the objective of this international conference is to provide a platform to industry, academia, research scholars and students to consider building sustainable global organizations through collaboration, creativity, critical thinking , communication and community. In this 24th International Trade and Research Conference, INBUSH ERA World Conference 2024, a large number of academicians, industrialists, businessmen etc. from the country and abroad will express their views. Under this, over 600 research papers will be presented and academicians will deliberate on several issues pertaining to NEP 2020 and other areas.

Dr. Balvinder Shukla, Vice Chancellor, Amity University said that providing global exposure to students was started with the inception of Amity. The mutual collaboration provides an opportunity to the students to understand the education system including the business culture of other countries. Under the new education policy, today students are getting opportunities for dual degree, joint degree etc. and should make full use of these opportunities.

On this occasion, Prof. (Mrs.) Eli Clemons, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Education), Monash University, Dr. (Mrs.) Mandy Mock, Founder & CEO, AppliedHE, Singapore, Prof. Rosellio Minana, Vice Provost (Global Engagement), Drexel University, USA were presented with the Amity Global Academic Excellence Award. Prof. Yug Shung Kim, Vice President, Global Sales & Distribution, Ola Electric Technologies Pvt. Ltd. and Mr. Jaydeb Nadan, Chief Operating Officer, Adani Power Limited were honoured with the Amity Global Corporate Excellence Award. Dr. Rohit Verma, Dean, Darla Moore College of Business, University of South Carolina, was awarded the Amity Academic Excellence Award. In addition, Mr. Bipul Chandra, MD, Ducati India was conferred with the Amity Corporate Excellence Award.

Also present on the occasion were Dr. Gregory Cusack, Chief Course Work Officer, Monash University, Prof. Anthony Forster, Vice Chancellor, University of Essex, UK, Dr. W. Selvamurthy, President, Amity Science Technology and Innovation Foundation. During the Conference, the IEEE Special Issue of the INBUSH ERA World Conference 2024, Case Research Special Issue with Case Centre UK and conference based books were also released.

Government of Goa and MakeMyTrip Forge Historic Partnership

New Delhi, February 22, 2024In a landmark initiative, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, and MakeMyTrip have today inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signifying a ground-breaking public-private partnership, the very first of its kind. This collaborative effort aims to propel tourism in Goa into a vibrant, year-round destination, moving beyond its iconic sun, sand, and beaches.

MAKE MY TRIP

Goa is the first state in India to launch Regenerative Tourism initiative. The MoU, which outlines a series of innovative initiatives aimed at showcasing Goa’s lesser-known inland treasures, its rich cultural tapestry and delectable culinary traditions, is the next step ahead. The Tourism Minister of Goa expressed immense pride in this collaboration, emphasizing the government’s commitment to transforming Goa.

A Historic Partnership: Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director Tourism & MD, GTDC Goa Administration, and Mr Rajesh Magow, Co-founder and Group CEO, MakeMyTrip, shake hands after signing a landmark MOU in the esteemed presence of Shri Rohan Khaunte, Minister of Tourism, IT, E&C, and Printing and Stationery, Government of Goa, and Mr Sanjeev Ahuja, Secretary, Goa Tourism. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in promoting tourism in Goa.

During the signing ceremony Shri Rohan Khaunte, Minister of Tourism, IT, E&C, and Printing and Stationery, Government of Goa said, “Our collective vision of Goa Beyond Beaches is to bring the hidden splendours of Goa to the forefront, celebrate its rich cultural heritage, take tourism to the hinterlands of Goa and ensure sustainable and regenerative tourism practices that preserve our natural resources for generations to come. Our partnership with MakeMyTrip will help us introduce tourists to the heart and soul of Goa, ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism are equitably distributed across the state.”

MakeMyTrip’s involvement is critical in this endeavour, as the company brings its expertise in digital innovation and marketing, contributing to further broaden the reach and appeal of Goa tourism. The travel major will highlight the state’s inland cultural richness and culinary traditions, which usually take a back seat to popular coastal attractions by curating a Cultural Map of Goa, pushing various initiatives to promote the multi-faceted state, and exposing potential travellers to the depth of delights that the state has to offer.

“We are excited to embark on this journey with the Government of Goa,” said Rajesh Magow, Co-founder and Group CEO, MakeMyTrip. “Our efforts will be directed towards showcasing the unexplored facets of Goa, promoting homestay penetration across the interiors of Goa and collaboratively nurture a sustainable tourism ecosystem.”

The spokesperson outlined MakeMyTrip’s plans, including curating unique travel itineraries, and promoting various festivals of Goa. “Through this MOU, we are not just promoting tourism – we are nurturing it to be adaptive, inclusive, and sustainable. This is about contributing to create a Goa that is as enduring as it is enchanting.” Rajesh emphasized.

Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director Tourism & MD, GTDC Goa Administration, who was also in attendance at the ceremony added, “We are also focused on spotlighting Goa on the spiritual tourism map of India combining it with the wellness options the state has to offer. We have launched the Ekadasha Teertha campaign as part of our Regenerative Tourism initiative where we are connecting eleven places of worship to form a travel circuit. We are working towards building plastic-free and sustainable ecosystems in and around these sites to ensure the growth is in the right direction vis-à-vis the hosts and the tourists. Our endeavour is to make Goa a host-centric, people-first tourism destination.”

A central feature of this MOU is the commitment to sustainable tourism, aligning it with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasized by Goa Tourism and the Goa Roadmap, a significant outcome of India’s G20 Tourism Track. MakeMyTrip’s involvement will extend beyond promoting sustainable stay and visit options to the realm of education for visitors to the state. Goa has a well drafted Homestay policy for this purpose. In collaboration with the Government of Goa, the company will use over 500,000 single use plastic bottles to construct a public art display that serves as a symbol to environmental preservation and a stark reminder of the importance of sustainable practices in tourism.

With Goa being the first state in India to launch Regenerative Tourism, in the next thirty-six months the department’s goal is to promote environmental restoration, cultural preservation, and community empowerment by means of four paths – spirituality, indigeneity, civilizational and cultural nationalism, and conscious tourism.

The Ekadasha Teertha or the Eleven Places of Transformation are centred around local communities, especially the women and the youth and meant to encourage the travel and tourism sector in India to adopt maintainable practices that benefit both the environment and the human population.

The Goa Tourism Minister Shri Rohan Khaunte concluded by emphasizing that this MoU is more than just an agreement, it is a testament to a long-term vision for Goa, ensuring the preservation of its cultural and natural heritage for future generations.

Starbuzz.ai Secures $500K in Seed Funding to Revolutionize Influencer Marketing Sector

India, 22nd Feb 2024Starbuzz.ai, an innovative AI-driven influencer marketing platform, has announced the successful closure of its seed funding round, securing $500,000 (Rs 4.15 crore) from an undisclosed investor. This substantial investment will fuel the company’s expansion efforts, including team growth, product refinement, and market exploration.

founders

Incubated within India’s leading startup ecosystem, T-Hub, Starbuzz.ai has emerged as a promising player in the influencer marketing space. With its advanced AI-powered solutions, the platform offers brands and agencies the tools to streamline and optimize influencer marketing campaigns. By leveraging sophisticated algorithms, Starbuzz.ai enables brands to discover relevant influencers, manage campaigns effortlessly, and derive actionable insights through advanced analytics. Notably, Starbuzz.ai’s adeptness in detecting fake followers and delivering comprehensive analytics empowers brands to make data-driven decisions, safeguarding maximum ROI and upholding brand integrity.

With an estimated worth of around 12 billion Indian rupees and projected to further grow at a CAGR of 25% over the next five years (Statista), Starbuzz.ai is well-positioned to capitalize on this burgeoning market. The company’s plans for expansion into new markets, including the Middle East, Canada, and Australia, underscore its ambition to become a global leader in influencer marketing automation. T-Hub’s invaluable contributions in nurturing Starbuzz.ai’s early development through mentorship, industry connections, and access to crucial resources have significantly shaped their growth trajectory.

Krishna Priya Akella, Founder, Starbuzz.ai, said, “At Starbuzz.ai, our aim is to revolutionize influencer marketing through cutting-edge technology. This latest funding round not only validates our vision but also propels us forward on our journey to reshape the industry with innovative solutions. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, we stand ready to empower brands and agencies, unlocking unparalleled success in their influencer campaigns.”

According to Mahankali Srinivas Rao (MSR), CEO of T-Hub, “Starbuzz.ai exemplifies the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship that T-Hub seeks to foster within its ecosystem. We congratulate Starbuzz.ai on their latest funding achievement, which not only reaffirms their commitment to revolutionizing influencer marketing but also reflects the collective vision of T-Hub to nurture and support cutting-edge startups in India. We look forward to witnessing Starbuzz.ai’s continued journey of innovation and impact in the growing influencer marketing industry.”

Since its inception in 2021, Starbuzz.ai has swiftly become a trailblazer in the influencer marketing landscape, achieving remarkable milestones along the way. By February 2023, the company seamlessly transitioned to a SaaS model, marking a pivotal moment in its journey and experiencing an impressive monthly revenue growth of 3x. Within a mere three months post-launch, Starbuzz.ai garnered over 500 B2B users and established connections with an extensive network of 70,000 influencers. This exponential growth is further underscored by the expansion of the team within just 8 months, bolstered by substantial investments totaling Rs. 4.4 Cr, with a notable contribution of Rs. 40L from AIC Banasthali.

The Ramayana House: A Captivating Contemporary Rendition of an Unforgettable Indian Epic

Developed by Envisage, an Interior and Architecture firm, The Ramayana House gracefully resides within a beautiful gated community called Shalimar Paradise in Lucknow. An exquisite ode to the Indian epic of Ramayana, the house is not only a literal, religious, or traditional recreation of the epic but a contemporary adaptation and manifestation of the spiel itself.

The Ramayana House embodies a profound design philosophy centered around recreating the enchanting and immersive journey depicted in the timeless narrative. By seamlessly integrating local art and crafts, the house becomes a living canvas that vividly narrates the story.

“The client and their three siblings grew up listening to Valmiki’s Ramayana from their family elders, and this abode celebrates those cherished associations. Each space within the house has been conceptualized to beautifully depict various chapters of the epic, evoking memories and nostalgic happiness. Through a fusion of contemporary Indian design and Bohemian aesthetics, the residence seamlessly transitions visitors from one chapter to the next, akin to the progression of the Ramayana.” Meena Murthy Kakkar, Design Head and Co-Founder of Envisage

Bala Kand
A Gateway to New Beginnings: Representing the beginning of Ramayana
The entry foyer serves as a gateway to the house and symbolizes the beginning of the Ramayana with the Bala Kand. The right wall is adorned with the Ram Gayatri Mantra, introducing Lord Ram and extending a warm welcome. On the left, a hand-made, hand-painted console showcases sketches from Devdutt Pattanaik’s book “Sita”, capturing pivotal scenes from the Bala Kand. The entry wall features an artwork by Prasun Mazumdar, encompassing Valmiki’s Ramayana and providing a summary of the tale that unfolds within the house.

Ayodhya Kand
A Passage of Transition: Representing the transition from the court to the forest in the Ramayana
The house’s transitional spaces such as the staircase and the passageway are conceptualized and designed to bring out the essence of Ayodhya Kand. The passage floor is adorned with a mosaic, mimicking the uneven textures of a forest bed, while a black and white Madhubani wall mural portrays forest scenes from the epic. The passageway ceiling features a groin vault, reminiscent of the forest’s tree geometry, complemented by hanging lights. Earthy tones and paneled doors further enhance the passage’s organic ambiance. The staircase risers are adorned with custom hand-printed tiles, and an upper-storey corner displays a mural of a tree, both elements inspired by the forest. The Ayodhya Kand theme extends to the powder room, where a modern rendition of the forest’s moods and colors is created using a palm leaf wallpaper from Good Earth, a green vanity, and a muted grey color palette.

Aranya Kand
A Space for Serene Communication: Representing the family’s settlement in the forest, immersing them in a fulfilling life
The living area is transformed, showcasing three distinct spaces: the opulent formal living room resembling a Regal Darbaar, adorned with vintage elements like a hand-tufted rug, camelback sofas, a wooden jhoola, and a grand center table. The adjacent informal seating area designed as baithak, captures the love of the forest abode, featuring wooden roof rafters, a wooden-finished fan, and an ikkat border symbolizing the Laxman Rekha. The dining area, surrounded by lush greens, showcases a deer-inspired console, paying homage to its significance in the epic.

Sunder Kand and Uttar Kaand
Nurturing Growth, Reflection, and Togetherness: Representing familial support, growth, and introspection
The family room on the first floor beautifully embodies the essence of the Sunder Kand. This cozy space serves as a gathering spot for intimate conversations, where the family can come together. Clayman face sculptures representing thbe Vaanar Sena adorn the room, symbolizing their unwavering and immense support. In keeping with the significance of prayer in the Sunder Kand, a Puja/prayer room is incorporated within this zone, flanked by two exquisite Chettinad pillars displaying intricate craftsmanship. The master bedroom tells the story of the Uttar Kand, with a foyer showcasing a handcrafted painting of Luv and Kush with the Ashwamedha horse, symbolizing the reunion of a family. Inside the master bedroom, a blend of patterns and textures is thoughtfully curated. The brown-grey walls create a dynamic backdrop, evoking a sense of relaxation and homeliness. Wood is generously used throughout the space, imbuing the furniture and accessories with a distinct Indian character.

Kishkinda Kand and Yudh Kand
A Natural Haven Embracing Harmonious Chaos: Representing the birds and animals, war and chaos
The outdoor spaces beautifully portray the essence of the Kishkinda Kand and the Yudh Kand. The Kishkinda Kand, with its focus on birds, animals, and outdoor journeys, comes to life in the garden area. Birdhouses placed on wooden pillars, adorned with greens and pebbles, embellish the outdoor space, which also serves as a delightful home for the family’s canine companion. On the other hand, the garden gazebo reinterprets the chaos and war depicted in the Yudh Kand. Surrounded by lush greenery, the gazebo is accompanied by a water body with steps, symbolizing the army’s journey to Sri Lanka. Inspired by the epic, Ashok trees are planted to create an Ashok Vatica around the gazebo, while a central Sheesham tree represents the spot where goddess Sita once sat in the Ramayana.

The house celebrates local craftsmanship through elements like chikan work sheers and handloom upholstery, which seamlessly blend contemporary design sensibilities with Indian traditions and heritage. Metal and brass work from Muradabad, Chikankari from native artisans, and Madhubani art further enhance the storytelling experience through architecture and interior design. This journey transcends time and leaves a lasting impact on all who encounter it.

The beauty of the Ramayana lies in its limitless possibilities and its ability to mould cultural sensibilities. The house skilfully weaves a contemporary narrative into a traditional tale, evoking emotions such as determination, righteousness, serenity, and awe. By exploring the house, one’s own childhood memories are reignited as they reminisce about the Indian Epic. Every corner and space in the house resonates with an unforgettable story.