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Hyderabad, Nov 28: The International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) Hyderabad is set to present “Mystical Mélange”, an Indo–French culinary and cultural evening, to be held at the Phoenix Arena, HITEC City, on November 29.

A culinary showcase curated by over 70 third-year students is an annual event that showcases their Hotel Management skills, featuring more than 40 culinary delights to delight over 400 guests, including VIPs, Parents, and others.

The event aims to spotlight a rare blend of French gastronomy and Indian culinary artistry, bringing together prominent stakeholders from the hospitality and cultural sectors.

Mr Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary, Government of Telangana, will attend the event as the Chief Guest. Senior hoteliers, hospitality leaders, and dignitaries from across Hyderabad are also expected to participate, underscoring the significance of the occasion for the city’s hospitality landscape.

IIHM extended a special acknowledgement to Mr Suresh Chukapally, Chairman Emeritus, Phoenix Group Hyderabad, whose support as Venue Partner has played a key role in hosting the evening.

Adding to the event’s Indo–French connection, Mr Pascal Loreau, Deputy Consul and Head of the Bureau de France, will also be present, bringing diplomatic prominence to the celebration.

Commenting on the show, Dr Suborno Bose, the Chairman of IIHM Hotel School, a veteran in the hospitality space, said, “Hospitality is not just an industry; it is a celebration of human connection. At IIHM, we are committed to nurturing professionals who lead with skill, compassion, and global vision. Our mission is to create world-class hospitality leaders who can stand tall anywhere in the world. Excellence in education is not an act for us—it is a daily discipline.”

“The future of hospitality will belong to those who combine service with innovation. IIHM continues to shape young minds to become global ambassadors of India’s hospitality excellence.”

The food festival is being organised under the Guidance of Chef Sanjay Kak, the Culinary Director of IIHM Hotel School and Mr Earnest Immanuel, the campus Director of IIHM Hyderabad. The students are organising this Food Festival.

According to them, festivals like these and others make the students job-ready. The future of hospitality will belong to those who combine service with innovation. IIHM continues to shape young minds to become global ambassadors of India’s hospitality excellence.

The evening will feature a curated Indo–French menu designed and executed by IIHM’s student chefs, showcasing a harmonious blend of flavours and techniques. Guests will be treated to Brochettes du Chef, the institute’s signature Indo–French grilled skewers, along with a Fresh Pasta Live Station offering classic sauces prepared with refined French flair. The menu also includes Chicken Tikka Vol-au-Vents, where flaky French puff cups are filled with warm Indian-inspired flavours, and Aubergine Parmesan au Four, an elegant oven-baked eggplant dish infused with European notes. With its rich gastronomic spread, cultural exchange, and high-profile participation, “Mystical Mélange” is poised to be one of Hyderabad’s most notable culinary events of the season.

India’s Best Women’s Festival We The Women by Barkha Dutt unveils star-studded line up 

Mumbai, Nov, 28: After setting London ablaze with its unmistakable energy, We The Women, India’s best Ideas festival, returns to Mumbai, louder, bolder and more unforgettable than ever. Curated and moderated by award-winning journalist Barkha Dutt, the festival remains what it has always been: a shared space for conversation, celebration and community – where both women and men achievers from varied walks of life are honoured as Changemakers. 

In this edition, in the year of Operation Sindoor, the festival carries an especially powerful heartbeat with the presence of Women in Uniform. The participation of Women Soldiers and Air Warriors from the Army and IAF is not just symbolic; it is a reminder of the courage, discipline, and uncompromising duty that India’s armed forces embody every day.

And joining them on stage is a constellation of voices that have shaped culture, imagination, public life, and history. From World Cup champion Harmanpreet Kaur, who redefined Indian cricket’s possibilities one blistering innings at a time, to Jaya Bachchan, a parliamentarian and cinema legend whose authenticity remains her fiercest armour. From Rani Mukerji, an actor whose craft has for decades mirrored the evolving power of Indian women on screen, to Janhvi Kapoor, who carries the legacy of cinema while boldly carving out her own distinct chapter.

Actors Vijay Varma and Ishaan Khatter join them, men who are unafraid to amplify women-led stories both on-screen and off. Shobhaa De, with her razor-sharp pen and fearless commentary, brings a voice that has shaped social conversations for generations. Manish Malhotra, the couturier who transformed fashion into a language of aspiration, joins fellow disruptor Masaba Gupta, whose bold, rule-breaking design philosophy has become a cultural movement of its own.

The stage widens further with voices like Neha Dhupia, who has used her platform to challenge stereotypes around motherhood, body image, and identity; Malaika Arora, whose unapologetic ownership of self continues to dismantle ageist and sexist norms; Dia Mirza, whose advocacy for sustainability makes her one of India’s leading environmental storytellers; and Rasika Dugal, whose nuanced performances and uncompromising choices reflect the new grammar of Indian acting.

Together, they form a chorus, diverse, dynamic, and deeply resonant, reflecting the many Indias that coexist within us all.

We The Women returns not as a festival alone but as a declaration. A celebration of voice and vulnerability, of power and possibility. A reminder that when women and men speak honestly, fearlessly, and without filters, something shifts in the world.

Chandigarh, Nov 28: 105Arts, founded by Mehak Bhan, is proud to announce its winter exhibition “Blueprint: What Lines Say”, a landmark group show dedicated entirely to the art of drawing. Curated by Kolkata-based contemporary artist Avijit Dutta, the exhibition opens on 5 December 2025 at the 105Arts gallery in Chandigarh and will run until 5 January 2026.

The exhibition brings together a wide spectrum of artists  from classical masters and modern icons to established seniors and emerging talents  offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience drawing in its most direct, expressive, and potent form. From meticulous draftsmanship to figurative explorations, abstract impulses to experimental contemporary studies, the show positions drawing not as a preliminary step but as a complete and compelling art form.

Marking the fifth year of 105Arts, the exhibition arrives at a significant moment for Chandigarh’s cultural landscape. It invites young audiences, students, collectors, and art enthusiasts to witness drawing as the purest blueprint of artistic imagination, where ideas first take tangible form on paper.

Mehak Bhan, founder of 105Arts, says;
“105Arts has always aimed to be a thoughtful space for contemporary art. This fifth anniversary felt like the perfect moment to present a show with depth and ambition. ‘Blueprint’ brings some of the strongest voices in Indian contemporary art under one roof, showcasing drawing not just as an intimate, foundational practice, but as an art form in its own right. Our goal is to let viewers experience the raw, honest, thinking-on-paper quality up close.”

Avijit Dutta, curator, adds;
“Much like a newborn beginning life, this exhibition serves as a blueprint for a young, promising gallery like 105Arts. It is a journey to discover raw talent among emerging voices and to uncover the core of an artist’s psyche, often first visible in their drawings  a form that eventually shapes their entire artistic trajectory.”

“Blueprint: What Lines Say” promises to be an ambitious, thought-provoking celebration of drawing, highlighting its enduring relevance and power in contemporary art.

New Delhi,   Nov 28:Primebook India, a deep-tech startup committed to building India’s first computing ecosystem, today announced a successful funding extension of $250,000 in a mix of primary and secondary shares fromEkamya Capital, following its $2 million Pre-Series A fund raise in April 2025 at a valuation of $15 million.

This funding will be strategically directed towards advancing Primebook’s proprietary operating system, PrimeOS, and enhancing its AI and Cloud PC infrastructure, while reinforcing brand trust and consumer accessibility across India. 

R&D focus areas include;

• Enhancing the current screen-aware contextual AI and building a foundational AI layer capable of performing routine actions for users.

• Investing in AI research and development talent, and data security frameworks.

• Continuing to deepen Prime X Cloud PC integration, allowing seamless handoff between local and cloud environments.

Branding focus areas include;

• Expanding offline retail footprint and enhancing after-sales and service infrastructure 

• Launching user education and awareness programmes around PrimeOS features and responsible AI use, data privacy, etc. 

Speaking about the investment, Mr. Chitranshu Mahant, Co-founder & CEO of Primebook, said: “This funding rounds out our commitment to helping every young Indian access smart, secure, and cost-effective computing devices. Our next priority is to transition PrimeOS into a future-ready, robust ecosystem. The one that doesn’t just power laptops but empowers users. We’re working towards a world where technology adapts to individuals, not the other way around. A world where every student, creator, and professional can access the same quality of digital opportunity, regardless of geography or background. We are grateful to Ekamya VC for aligning with us on the same vision and supporting our next phase of innovation and growth.”

Adding to this, Mr. Aman Verma, Co-founder & COO of Primebook, shared: “Of course, by using AI and cloud innovation, we aim to craft more personalised, engaging, and relevant experiences for our users. But beyond technology, we want Primebook to stand for something meaningful, a brand that reflects the spirit, ambition, and creativity of young India. Primebook represents a shift in digital independence for the youth, not just in terms of accessibility, but in ownership of their digital future.”

Expressing confidence in the brand’s direction, Mr. Gaurav Kapoor, Founder & Managing Partner – Ekamya Capital, stated: “We’re excited to announce our investment in Primebook, which is building the first computing ecosystem in India. As personal computing evolves past traditional systems, PrimeOS represents an ambitious outcome in terms of making laptop experiences more accessible, flexible, connected, and efficient for learners and doers. The entire ecosystem of Primebook, including the cloud integration, AI-powered capabilities, and productivity tools, is forging a new path for how youth today learn, create, and work. As they combine a rigorous R&D focus with scalable innovation and cost-effectiveness, Primebook is expanding the definitions of modern computing. We’re excited to support a team committed to building impactful devices and redefining what everyday computing means for millions.”

Ongoing backing from renowned investors such asEkamya Capital only reinforces the rising confidence in Primebook’s ability to reshape the high price-to-performance ratio technology space in India. 

Built for Young India, Primebook stands for intelligent, inclusive, and future-ready computing. Rooted in India’s digital landscape, its Android-based PrimeOS operating system empowers first-time laptop users to move seamlessly from consumption to creation. By tactfully blending functional hardware with advanced software intelligence, Primebook is shaping a culture of digital confidence, where the young generation takes control of their technology and grows with it. 

New Delhi, Nov 25: The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Direct Taxes Committee recently hosted a crucial interactive session on the taxation of charitable institutions and exempt entities, featuring Shri Debjyoti Das, Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, as the Chief Guest. Shri Das delivered a comprehensive keynote address highlighting major reforms in the Indian income tax framework, specifically addressing longstanding challenges faced by charitable organizations under the current Income-tax Act, 1961, and the transformative promise of the upcoming Income-tax Act, 2025.

Shri Debjyoti Das, Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, began by candidly acknowledging that the Income-tax Act, 1961, having evolved over more than six decades from its 1922 predecessor, had become increasingly complex and fragmented, particularly with regard to exemption provisions such as Section 12A. He pointed out that shifting provisos, scattered clauses, and repeated piecemeal amendments had created a web of procedural and interpretative difficulties, often leading to frustration for taxpayers, tax professionals, and officers alike. Notably, tax audit requirements were highlighted as a significant pain point due to their complexity, subjective certifications, and compliance costs.

The Principal Chief Commissioner of Income tax brought encouraging news about the enactment of the Income-tax Act, 2025, effective from April 1, 2026, which promises a simplified, cohesive, and user-friendly legal framework. He emphasized that the new Act consolidates and restructures provisions to improve logical flow and reduce the volume of sections and wording by nearly half, while retaining the substance and principles that ensure tax certainty. Shri Das affirmed that the simplification was a deliberate choice reflecting the government’s vision to move away from complicated colonial-era laws towards a modern, accessible statute that embodies clarity and ease of compliance. Further, Shri Das elaborated on the revamped registration and renewal regime for charitable trusts under Section 12A and Section 80G, transitioning from a once-and-for-all perpetual registration towards a system requiring registration every 5 or 10 years depending on the size of the entity. This change aims to improve oversight, update records, and prevent misuse while streamlining renewal processes with risk-based review focused on genuinely suspicious cases. He reassured attendees that efforts are underway to ease procedural hassles related to registration, and late filing of tax audit reports, reflecting the department’s commitment to balancing oversight with facilitation.

Mr. Mukul Bagla, Chair, Direct Taxes Committee, PHDCCI, provided an insightful overview of recent regulatory tightening affecting NGOs to enhance transparency and accountability. He highlighted digitization efforts such as mandatory filing of Form 10DD for donations under Section 80G and advocated technical improvements including auto-population of donor data in Form 26AS to ease return filing complications. Mr. Bagla remarked on the legislative reforms aligning corpus donations to normal donations under Section 11(5), curbing tax abuse potential. He also voiced stakeholders’ concerns about inconsistent timelines for filing Forms 10 and 9A, foreign travel expenditure exclusions under Section 11, and the expansive, resource-intensive scope of Forms 10B and 10BB certifications introduced recently- calling for practical adjustments to better match NGO realities and reduce litigation.

Ms. Pallavi Dinodia, Co-Chair, Direct Taxes Committee, PHDCCI, shared a personal reflection on her family’s historical contribution to India’s tax laws and the positive shift witnessed among charitable entities moving from a perpetual exemption mind set toward disciplined compliance and governance. She noted that these regulatory changes are fostering an ecosystem that supports India’s broad vision of development and formalization of the charitable sector.

Ms. Babeeta Sharma, Director of PHDCCI, celebrated the Chamber’s 120-year legacy as a steadfast promoter of Indian industry and trade. She lauded the chamber’s role in policy advocacy and fostering dialogue sectors such as the NGO and charitable sector. Ms. Sharma formally welcomed Shri Debjyoti Das, PCCIT underscoring his distinguished IRS career since 1990 with diverse national-level postings and reputed expertise, along with his broad intellectual and cultural interests, thereby setting the tone for an engaged and rounded discussion of exemption policies.

Accompanying Shri Das were senior Income Tax Department officials from the Exemptions division, including Mr. Shri Prakash Dubey, Principal Commissioner of Income Tax and Mr. Satyanarayan Takhar and Mr. Abhinav Prakash, Additional Commissioner of Income Tax (Exemp) who also contributed technical perspectives and underscored the department’s “trust but verify” approach to oversight-leveraging risk-based scrutiny while working to simplify compliance for genuine charitable institutions.

This interactive seminar underscored the ongoing transformation of India’s income tax regime for exempt entities, signalling significant improvements in clarity, process efficiency, and regulatory oversight poised to benefit taxpayers and the department alike as the country transitions to the Income-tax Act, 2025.

By: Nishank Joshi, Chief Marketing Officer, Nexus Select Malls on the anticipated Black Friday Sales

“Over the past few years, Black Friday has firmly cemented itself as one of India’s most anticipated retail moments. What began as a single-day flash sale has now evolved into a full-fledged shopping week for many brands, signalling not just consumer enthusiasm, but the maturing of India’s retail landscape.

For us at Nexus Select Malls, Black Friday provides a timely surge in November, which tends to be softer when Diwali falls in October. This year too, we are elevating the experience with bigger giveaways, bigger assured gifts and 2X reward points for shoppers who upload their bills on our Nexus ONE app.

Traditionally, categories like electronics and beauty used to take lead, but now we’re witnessing now is a wider acceptance across segments like fast-fashion, accessories etc as well. While it’s still early to confirm the total number of participating brands this year, I am confident that the participation will surpass last year’s numbers.

Black Friday has truly become a nationwide phenomenon, and we expect strong traction across all our 19 malls in 15 cities. Like every year, we are optimistic of delivering double-digit growth in both sales and footfalls during the Black Friday weekend. The energy around this event only reinforces our belief that India’s appetite for organised retail is stronger than ever.”

Gurugram, Nov 24th: Indian cricketer Shafali Verma has taken delivery of the MG Cyberster, World’s Fastest MG. Perfectly suited to her bold, fearless and dynamic persona, the MG Cyberster reflects her taste for bold design, technology and superior performance.

Shafali is the youngest player, to represent India in all three formats of international cricket and played a pivotal role in the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup victory. A seamless fit, the Cyberster embodies the same champion mindset that defined her stellar performance on the global stage. It is designed for those who crave performance and presence, the Cyberster pairs its bold stance with active aerodynamic elements and a long sweeping bonnet inspired by classic roadsters.

Aimed at reimagining open-top motoring for a new generation, the MG Cyberster blends iconic British roadster heritage with cutting-edge EV innovation. With its dramatic electric scissor doors, sculpted silhouette and driver-centric digital cockpit, the Cyberster is crafted for those who appreciate design that demands attention and performance that leaves a lasting impression.

The Cyberster combines a bold, athletic stance with active aerodynamic elements that enhance control and agility. Its long, sweeping bonnet—drawing inspiration from classic roadsters adds a touch of heritage to its modern electric design. The result is a car that feels purposeful, confident, and ready to deliver an engaging drive every time.

The Cyberster delivers an exhilarating dual-motor all-wheel-drive experience, producing 510 PS and 725 Nm of torque, launching from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds. Tuned by Formula 1 engineering legend Marco Fainello, the Cyberster promises a dynamic yet refined drive, combining sharp handling with a chassis engineered for precision. With its electrically operated convertible roof that drops in 10 seconds, the Cyberster offers the perfect blend of open-sky freedom and sports-car intensity. The MG Cyberster is available for experience and booking across MG SELECT Experience Centres.

Mumbai,  Nov 24: Writer and creative professional June Roshni Lobo unveiled her deeply personal debut, My Father’s Earthen Vessel, at an intimate evening at Title Waves, Bandra West. The launch was honoured by singer, author, & actress, who is popularly known for her role in ‘Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa’ Suchitra Krishnamoorthi, Madhoo, Shah (Actress known for iconic performances in Roja and Phool Aur Kaante) & Indrani Malkani. Chairman Trustee. V Citizens Action Network (VCAN) and created a warm, nostalgic atmosphere that perfectly suited the book’s themes.

L To R_Actress Madhoo Shah_ Indrani Malkani_Shobha_June Roshni Lobo & Suchitra Krishnamoorthi

My Father’s Earthen Vessel is a lyrical meditation on the father–child bon, a gentle, evocative exploration of love, loss and inheritance. Moving between prose and poetry, June traces the small, everyday moments that form a life’s worth of memory: the silent strengths, the habits that linger, and the tender rituals that keep a presence alive.

Speaking at the launch, Suchitra Krishnamoorthi said, “Supporting this book today feels deeply personal. As someone who has always been a father’s girl, I connected instantly with June’s theme and the emotional honesty in her writing. In a world where being an author takes immense courage, with rewards that are more soulful than material, her work stands out for its sincerity and heart. The parts I read moved me, because they speak to how our parents shape us long after they’re gone. I’m truly happy to be here and to celebrate this beautiful tribute.”

Madhoo Shah said, I’m honoured to be part of this launch. When Shobha shared the synopsis of My Father’s Earthen Vessel, I immediately connected with its themes of discipline, resilience and the quiet strength we inherit from our parents. These are values that have shaped my own journey as an artist. In a world driven by constant validation, this book is a reminder of the grounding forces that keep us focused, committed and true to our craft. I’m grateful to support a work that speaks so meaningfully to the professional and personal foundations that guide us all.”

Indrani Malkani added further, Curiosity brought me here this evening, the name June and the name Roshni instantly struck a personal chord. And when I spoke to the author early this morning, I felt an immediate connection to the spirit of the book. As someone who works closely with communities and believes deeply in values passed down through generations, the theme of a daughter’s relationship with her father resonated strongly with me. Our fathers shape our conscience, our courage and the way we serve the world. This book is a heartfelt reminder of those roots, and I’m glad to stand here in support of it.”

June Roshni Lobo shared, “We were raised to understand the value of gratitude, to recognise the people, moments and lessons that shape us. And that is the essence I wanted to express today while speaking about My Father’s Earthen Vessel. The book is a reminder of how our upbringing, especially the values passed down by our parents, quietly guide us through life. I’m grateful to have been part of this moment and to honour a story built on love, memory and heartfelt gratitude.””

The evening unfolded with heartfelt readings, reflections, and warm exchanges, as guests resonated with the universal emotions that the book evokes. The atmosphere at Title Waves was intimate and moving, a celebration of family, memory, and the stories that live on within us.

With its lyrical voice and universal appeal, My Father’s Earthen Vessel stands as a timeless reminder that love, like clay, can be shaped, broken, and remade, yet never truly lost.

About the Author
June Roshni Lobo is a writer and creative professional whose work explores memory, belonging and emotional inheritance. My Father’s Earthen Vessel is her debut book.

The National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) proudly announces the much-awaited International Jazz Festival 2025, returning with an electrifying line-up of world-renowned jazz artistes. Since its inception in 2011, the festival has brought some of the finest global talent to India, celebrating the soulful diversity of jazz—from intimate trios to powerful big bands.

The 2025 edition promises an unforgettable musical journey, featuring four internationally acclaimed performers across three days, highlighting the depth, versatility, and global appeal of jazz.

Festival Highlights & Line-up

Day 1 – November 21 | 7:00 PM

Peter Cincotti
Internationally celebrated singer-songwriter and pianist Peter Cincotti opens the festival with his signature blend of jazz, pop, and energetic stage presence. Known for topping the Billboard charts at a young age, Cincotti brings a captivating fusion of classic and contemporary jazz.

Day 2 – November 22 | 6:00 PM

Nicki Parrott
Australian bassist and vocalist Nicki Parrott takes the stage with her emotive voice and impeccable bass craft. A favourite on global jazz circuits, Parrott’s performance promises warmth, elegance, and timeless jazz standards reimagined with finesse.

Day 2 – November 22 | 8:00 PM

Mike Stern Band feat. Dennis Chambers
Jazz fusion icons Mike Stern (guitar) and Dennis Chambers (drums) come together for a powerhouse performance. Known for their electric energy and unparalleled technical brilliance, this duo is set to deliver one of the festival’s most dynamic concerts.

Day 3 – November 23 | 6:30 PM

Brian Bromberg
Closing the festival is acclaimed bassist and composer Brian Bromberg, whose innovative approach to acoustic and electric bass has earned him global recognition. His performance will showcase exceptional technique complemented by expressive, genre-defying compositions.

A Legacy of Jazz Excellence

Over the years, the NCPA International Jazz Festival has become a cultural landmark, uniting jazz lovers and newcomers through extraordinary performances. This year’s festival reaffirms NCPA’s commitment to bringing world-class music experiences to India while fostering a deeper appreciation of jazz.

Event Details

• Venue: NCPA, Mumbai

• Dates: November 21–23, 2025

• Passes & Tickets: Available through the NCPA Box Office and official website