India-wide release, 28th October 2023: The stage and the mosh pits of Mumbai’s Bayview Lawns are ready to be ignited once again with the return of India’s biggest rock festival – the Mahindra Independence Rock (Mahindra I-Rock) after its epic comeback post a nine-year hiatus last year. True to its tradition, this year, too, the iconic festival presented a country-wide online band hunt, Tomorrow’s Headliners. The winning band, Nemophilis, selected by an esteemed panel of judges, will kick off the 29th edition of Mahindra I-Rock with their power-packed opening act.

In almost three decades and across 28 editions, Mahindra I-Rock still remains the ultimate test for underground rock talents seeking national and international recognition, where new, raw talents compete to share the stage with veteran rock bands. Numerous lucky emerging acts like Demonic Resurrection, Motherjane, Parikrama, Bhayanak Maut, Indus Creed, Agnee, Zero and Pentagram (to which Vishal Dadlani belongs) have walked onto the I-Rock stage as aspirants, eventually rising to fame, their guitar riffs and choruses becoming anthems for generations and even returning to their alma mater as part of the line-up. This has been the festival’s unique legacy since its inception in 1986. And Mahindra I-Rock carried forward this legacy in its 29th edition this year through Tomorrow’s Headliners, which gave a new generation of artists the chance to follow in the footsteps of these legends.

The digital band hunt saw more than 100 aspiring rock acts from across multiple cities across the length and breadth of the country, including New Delhi, Lucknow and Shillong in the north and north-east, Pune in the west, Kolkata in the east and Bangalore and Chennai in the south, to name a few. These acts went head-to-head to clinch a spot in the finals. From amongst them, the top 3 moved to the final round to battle it out for the coveted win, from which Nemophilis was selected as the Band Hunt Winner and the opening act for this year’s edition.

While talking about the band hunt, Mr VG Jairam – Founder of Hyperlink Brand Solutions, said, “I was happy to see an enthusiastic response from a fresh new wave of rock bands for this year’s edition. The festival has always been about more than just music. It has not only witnessed but also played an intrinsic role in the evolution of rock music in India by identifying, empowering and nurturing local rock talent, who have, in turn, become an essential part of the enduring I-Rock legacy.”

I-Rock began largely as a covers festival. However, the festival’s eagerness to uncover and give new talent a chance to take the stage increasingly saw original rock music that isn’t English-heavy but having distinct layers of Indian musical sensibilities. This marked a profound evolution in the Indian rock landscape, where musicians proved the genre truly transcends languages and geographies by blending diverse sounds of tabla, mridangam, flute, violin, and many other instruments for a crowd that was raging, headbanging nevertheless.

Mr VG Jairam further added, “I believe we couldn’t have had a more perfect jury. They are individuals who were once on the other side, aspiring to debut on the I-Rock stage, and I believe this perspective enabled them to truly recognise their talent and pick a deserving winner.”

The panel of judges was made of I-Rock alumni and notable names who have shaped India’s rock soundscape: Subir Malik (a stalwart in the Indian rock scene and the backbone of the band Parikrama which is an I-Rock alumni and a living testament of the festival’s legacy) and Sahil Makhija, aka, Demonstealer (the face of Demonic Resurrection, another band discovered on the I-Rock stage which has pushed the boundaries and redefined the metal genre in the country). The jury represented the past, present and future of rock and metal in India. Their legacies are inspiring generations, and their immense wealth of experience offered them a unique lens to handpick the next-gen rockstars.

The festival, in its first year, witnessed around 40 to 60 entries, and over the decades, it has seen a consistent growth in the number of participating bands. Mahindra I-Rock 2022’s band hunt saw more than 100 bands, while this year’s edition also saw over 100 bands competing for the win. This is testament to the fact that there is no dearth of rock talent in the country, and that the rock movement of the 80s and 90s is alive and thriving.

Akarsh Singh (Drummer – Nemophilis) said, “We’ve grown up hearing about I-Rock and listening to indie rock bands who have been a part of its iconic stage. So, we are super excited to perform on the same stage as our favourite rock legends by being the opening act of the evening. It has given us the opportunity to be a part of the festival’s rich legacy, and I think that is very cool. I am glad that winning the contest made this happen! Also, the release of our album “The Iceberg” is closely coinciding with our show in I-Rock so we could not be happier and more excited to play these songs live for the first time with our new I-Rock family.”

As winners of this year’s edition, Nemophilis will get the golden opportunity to perform alongside Mahindra I-Rock’s phenomenal line-up of 10 exceptionally talented rock bands, including cult bands like Parikrama and Bhayanak Maut, besides T.ill APES, Girish and the Chronicles, Swarathma as well as Kathmandu-based Underside, making it a rich celebration of rock as a genre with diverse flavours of sounds from India and beyond.

The revolutionary brand in women’s apparel, Cover Story, unveils a Western Collection this festive season that is sure to brighten your Diwali festivities. With a blend of classic elegance and contemporary design, every item showcases Cover Story’s dedication to reinventing current fashion.

Cover Story’s Diwali Western Collection is a symphony of striking patterns, luxurious materials, and superb craftsmanship. These outfits, which range from elegant slip dress to smart pieces, are chosen to empower and encourage women to show off their best qualities during the festival of lights.

With its tasteful combination of vibrant hues and detailed decorations, this collection exudes happiness and enthusiasm as it captures the essence of Diwali. For a variety of tastes and events, Cover Story provides options suitable for both formal and informal gatherings.

Mumbai,28th October 2023 Music Broadcast Limited (MBL), India’s 1st Private FM Radio Broadcaster, has reported its unaudited Financial Results for the Quarter ended September 30th, 2023.

· Key Highlights – Q2FY24:

• Q2 FY24 Top line of Rs 52.4 Crores; 8% Growth YoY
• EBITDA* at Rs. 12.1 Crores; 36% Growth YoY
• EBIDTA Margin at 23.1%
• Maintained a strong Position with 19% Volume Market Share

· Key Highlights – H1FY24:

• H1 FY24 Top line of Rs 105.5 Crores; 14% Growth YoY
• EBITDA* at Rs. 24.8 Crores; 41% Growth YoY
• EBIDTA Margin at 23.5%
• Maintained a strong Position with 19% Volume Market Share
• Liquidity Position as on September 30, 2023 of Rs. 305 Crores

*Includes other income

Commenting on the results Mr. Shailesh Gupta, Director said:

“I’m pleased to report that in Q2 and H1FY24, our profit growth has exceeded our revenue growth. During this period, we achieved EBITDA margins of 23.1% in Q2 and 23.5% in H1, marking a 480 bps and 450 bps increase, respectively. These improved margins are the outcome of our continuous cost reduction initiatives over the past few years, combined with our revenue growth, leading to enhanced operational efficiency.

At Radio City, we have implemented various strategies to enhance our presence in the radio industry. During the quarter ended, our market share increased to 19%, up from 18% in the previous quarter. We have a strong omni-channel presence, allowing us to leverage our extensive networks and deliver maximum value to our clients.

In terms of sectoral growth in advertising, the real estate industry observed a substantial 40% YoY increase in advertising spending. The pharmaceutical market expanded by 30%, while the auto industry grew by an impressive 56% compared to the previous year. Conversely, the finance industry experienced a decline of 6%. The food and beverages sector showed a 21% growth, and government advertising increased by 12% YoY.

We are adapting to the evolving media landscape, one that is agnostic to platforms, with digital at the core of content creation, distribution, consumption, and engagement. To provide a seamless experience across platforms, we are enhancing our capabilities to be at the forefront of the digital technology revolution, delivering top-notch entertainment in line with the evolving preferences and needs of our audience. For first half of the financial year, our digital business grew by 24% compared to H1FY23.

In H1FY24, our inventory utilization stood at 73%, a significant improvement from the 56% recorded in H1FY23.

Radio City continues to be a popular choice for both existing and new clients on the radio advertising platform. Out of the total clients on the Radio platform, 40% advertised on Radio City and amongst the new clients on the Radio platform, 35% chose to advertise on Radio City.

We are proud to generate 36% of our revenue from diversified businesses such as properties, proactive pitches, digital ventures, sponsorships, and special events. Furthermore, we have secured the second-largest client count share in the industry, standing at 39% in Q2 FY24.

Our liquidity position remains robust. As of September 30, 2023, our company held cash reserves amounting to Rs. 305 crores.”

New Delhi, 28th October 2023 – Shangri-La Eros New Delhi is set to elevate the culinary landscape with an exquisite pop-up starring the celebrated wellness Italian Chef, Filippo Tawil from 27th October to 5th November at the Italian cuisine restaurant, Sorrento. Guests can indulge in a unique culinary experience, exploring the flavors of authentic Italian cuisine with a healthy twist.

With Chef Filippo’s magic, traditional Italian cuisine undergoes a modern, health-focused reinterpretation, offering an unparalleled gastronomic adventure for discerning palates. Patrons can explore the intersection of wellness and artistry in every bite through his signature dishes like PolpetteAl Sugo, Maltagliati Paglia EFieno, and Ravioli Di MelanzaneBruciate. Sorrento will transform into a haven of culinary arts, enveloped in an enchanting ambiance. This enhancement will elevate the dining experience and ensure that each moment transcends beyond a mere meal, becoming a cherished memory.

Leveraging over a decade of culinary prowess, Chef Filippo intricately blends the pleasures of indulgence with the essence of well-being. His creations offer a harmonious balance, promising an experience that is deeply nourishing and exquisitely delectable. He has lent his expertise to renowned establishments such as Hotel Angleterre and Accademia in Lausanne, Switzerland, Kings Mansion in Goa, Clinique La Prairie in Montreux and private chef stints in Miami, New York, Moscow, London, and Ibiza. His culinary acumen is further validated by certifications from esteemed institutions, including JUMP certificate, Chapter one, G&M Price, and Georges Blanc.

“In crafting each dish, my goal is to encapsulate the very essence of Italy’s legacy, infusing it with a contemporary touch. This pop-up at Shangri-La Eros New Delhi isn’t just a culinary escapade; it’s a heartfelt odyssey through flavours where tradition harmoniously blends with innovation. I’m thrilled to share my passion for nutritious and delightful cuisine with our guests, promising them a dining adventure that not only tantalizes their taste buds but also nourishes their soul.” says Chef Filippo Tawil.

Dates: 27th October to 5th November 2023 | A la carte menu Lunch & Dinner
Venue: Sorrento, Shangri-La Eros New Delhi

New Delhi, 28th Oct 2023 – Russian House in New Delhi, in collaboration with the Indian Association of Russian Compatriots (IARC), recently hosted a captivating cultural event that highlighted the rich and diverse traditions of Russia and India on the occasion of the Day of People’s Unity (November, 4). The event brought together Russian Compatriots and their families in New Delhi for a day to celebrate unity, culture and artistic expression. The primary objective of this event was to display unity in cultures & diversity by way of Art.

This is a journey that celebrates the beautiful painting exhibition by professional Russian Painters and Artists living and inspired by India and all their cherished memories. They have encapsulated the beauty of India in these canvases. From Jaipur’s busy roads to folk music of Rajasthan and Shiva’s divine beauty, each stroke of brush is a testament to their profound love for India. These artists have kept their skills alive and contributed to the rich artistic heritage of our country.

Our second exhibition displayed by young children from Donbas depicting what is their version of life, using brushes & crayons to create vivid depictions. They have known the harsh realities of conflict & they paint a different vision – one of hope, love, unity and harmony. Be it the views from their windows with tanks & burnt trees compared to a happy peaceful view of greenery and birds or an army personnel leaving behind his family to protect the nation, the portrayal of their vision is commendable. Here mothers are saying goodbye to their sons in a hope of their safe return or a little girl is dreaming of picking flowers from her garden or swinging outside on the playground. Every artwork is their dream of a peaceful tomorrow, inspiring us all to work towards a brighter, more harmonious future with unity.

On the event Mrs. Elena Barman president, Russian compatriots IARC said “Day of People’s Unity celebrations at the Russian House in New Delhi symbolizes the harmonious blend of Indian and Russian cultures, reaffirming our commitment to nurturing the strong and enduring bond between India and Russia. We believe that in celebrating each other’s traditions, we strengthen the ties that bind our nations.”

 

Mr. Oleg Osipov, Director of Russian House, India said “At the Russian House, we believe that cultural exchange is the bridge that unites nations. Through our commitment to showcasing the best of Russian culture and fostering Indian-Russian unity, we aim to enrich the India-Russia bond and promote lasting cultural connections on this National Unity Day and beyond.”

An endearing and visually captivating moment of the event was when Russian Ladies donned Sarees to Celebrate Unity Day along with a musical performance by a professional Opera singer leaving the audience teary-eyed. This gesture was a heartwarming representation of unity and cultural blending between Russia and India, highlighting the strength of cultural exchange. The event offers attendees the opportunity to view artworks from children in Donbas. These poignant paintings served as a reminder of the unifying power of art and its ability to transcend geographical boundaries.

The event reached its climax with a Unity Day Celebration that brought friends and well-wishers together beyond expected. It underscored the idea that cultural exchange and friendship transcend borders and create lasting connections.

The success of this year’s event is a testament to the growing interest and appreciation of Russian culture in India.

Hyderabad, 27th October 2023: TEDx Hyderabad to host TEDx Hyderabad Women 2023, a half-day TEDx event on Sunday with the theme “Two Steps Forward’. It will be held from 2 pm to 6 pm at The Park, Somajiguda.

A TEDx is a unique gathering of the local community that unleashes new ideas, inspires and informs. Its gatherings are live TED-like talks and performances shared with the community.

When it comes to global gender equity, there’s still so much work to be done. It’s time to reset, to rethink, to collectively imagine different ways forward. It is with this thought that TEDWomen has decided on the theme ‘TWO STEPS FORWARD’ for this year, stated in a press note issued in the city today.

TEDx Hyderabad is adopting the same theme to celebrate the brilliance, resilience, and creativity of women who are boldly taking not just one, but TWO STEPS FORWARD and making monumental strides in their journey. This extraordinary event promises a world of inspiration with captivating speakers, thought-provoking narratives, and meaningful connections, all brimming with ideas that have the power to change lives.

The four speakers–Duvvuru Varshitha, Sharanya Ari, Anu Prasa and Aradhana Lal, who will speak at TEDx Hyderabad Women stage have conquered adversity and reached astonishing heights. Their unique story, perspective, and expertise promise to inspire, educate, and motivate attendees.

More details about speakers and their journey are as follows

DUVVURU VARSHITHA

Ms. Duvvuru Varshitha is a skilled MedTech Innovator specializing in Research and Development, Design Thinking, and Hardware Prototyping within Healthcare, Life Sciences, and Innovation. With four years of startup experience, she brings a profound understanding of the challenges that innovative ventures face. Holding a degree in Biotechnology, her notable achievements include winning the NITTE Healthcare Challenge, TIE WOMEN Global Pitch Competition, and being featured in SHARK TANK INDIA – Season 1. Her ultimate aim is to enhance well-being and happiness through innovative real-life solutions.

SHARANYA ARI

Ms. Sharanya Ari, an Indian Administrative Service officer (2016 batch, Tamil Nadu Cadre), holds degrees in Information Technology and Public Administration. She held various significant government roles, including Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, Assistant Collector in Coimbatore, and Sub Collector in Kanyakumari. Ms. Ari leads the Gender and Policy Lab within the Chennai Corporation, collaborating with a team of technical consultants to execute projects focused on enhancing women’s safety in public spaces.

ANU PRASAD

Ms Anu Prasad is the Founder & CEO of India Leaders for Social Sector (ILSS), working to strengthen India’s social sector through leadership and talent development. She is the founding member of the prestigious Young India Fellowship (YIF) and Ashoka University. Anu has held leadership roles at MNCs such as American Express and TNT. An entrepreneur at heart, Anu has also co-founded and managed a successful travel company. She has also been a consultant for Dell Foundation on its education projects.

ARADHANA LAL

Ms Aradhana Lal is a leader of Sustainability/ESG Initiatives at Lemon Tree Hotels, and drives an inclusive employment strategy with a remarkable track record of hiring Employees With Disabilities (EWD) over the past 15 years. Her visionary goal is to elevate EWD representation from 14% to around 30% by 2025-2026. She pioneers initiatives for various disabilities, boasting three decades of experience in Sales, Marketing, Corporate Communications, and Sustainability after having earned her MBA from the prestigious IIM Ahmedabad. Aradhana’s journey is a testament to her commitment to inclusivity and sustainability in the corporate world.

27th October 2023, New Delhi: An exciting culinary adventure awaits as Perbacco at The Lodhi, New Delhi prepares for a unique Progressive Chinese pop-up named “I AM NOT A NOODLE.” This culinary voyage is helmed by Chef Katherine Chung, a fervent guardian of her nomadic Hakka heritage.

Chef Katherine’s exceptional journey unfolds as she draws inspiration from her family’s far-flung roots spanning Southern China, Hong Kong, Canada, and Kolkata. Her culinary journey extended beyond her home, incorporating global influences from friends and family. Through meticulous research, she uncovered the intricacies of Hakka cuisine. Today, her creations stand as a vibrant testament to the robust flavours of Hakka cuisine, seamlessly fusing Indian ingredients with authentic Chinese techniques.

This pop-up experience isn’t just about the food; it’s a revelation of her personal journey, a story of her search for identity and the essence of belonging. “I Am Not a Noodle” embodies the essence of Hakka traditions, dispelling misconceptions about Hakka cuisine limited to noodles and Chilli Chicken. This experience invites guests to savour the rich heritage of Hakka culture, as crafted by a chef whose culinary path is steeped in familial legacy.

Chef Katherine’s menu plays with quintessential Hakka Chinese dishes that are rarely seen outside Hakka homes, like Yam ‘Abacus Beads’ – a traditional Lunar New Year ‘gnocchi’, to her signature Roast Crackling Pork Belly and Stuffed Pumpkin Flowers with Miso Mash and Hot Mustard, the Hong Kong boatmen style Typhoon Shelter Prawns and innovative takes on classics like Garlic Oyster Mushroom with Ma’La French Beans served with Sichuan Mustard Tubers. Each dish carries a personal narrative, adding depth to the culinary experience.

The experience starts with a tasting of the Chef’s Homemade Rice Wine. Enhancing the mains are condiments like Homemade Chilli Oil, Scallion ‘Crack’ Sauce, and Spiced Cucumber. To conclude, a dessert duo awaits, featuring Sesame Balls with Ice Cream and Osmanthus Honey and Fried Milk Custard with Soy Caramel Drizzle.

I AM NOT A NOODLE by Chef Katherine Chung is presented by Gormei, a Hong Kong and India-based Culinary Curator focused on creating extraordinary dining experiences. The Progressive Chinese Pop-up offers an exploration of Hakka cuisine’s rich tapestry and celebrates the amalgamation of tradition and innovation within Chinese culinary arts. The specially curated five-course menu is priced at INR 4,500 plus GST per person.

Date: 28th and 29th October
Venue: Perbacco – The Lodhi, New Delhi

Dinner: 7 PM onwards

***

27th OCTOBER 2023 FINANCIAL RESULTS FOR THE PERIOD/QUARTER ENDED 30th SEPTEMBER 2023

PERIOD/QUARTER ENDED 30^th SEPTEMBER 2023

 Key Summary of Business Performance (as on 30.09.2023)

         Business

      Global Business increased by 10.12% (y.o.y) to ₹21,56,181 Cr as at September 2023 with Global Deposits at ₹12,32,215 Cr 8.66% (y.o.y) and Global Advance (gross) at ₹9,23,966 Cr 12.11% (y.o.y).

     Domestic Deposit of the Bank stood at ₹11,43,394 Cr as at September 2023 with growth of 8.22% (y.o.y).

     Domestic Advances(gross) of the Bank stood at ₹8,78,256 Cr as at September 2023 grew by 12.59% (y.o.y).

     Retail lending Portfolio increased to ₹1,48,209 Cr, 10.56% (y.o.y) as at September 2023.

     Housing Loan Portfolio increased by 12.32% (y.o.y) to ₹88,564 Cr.

     Advances to Agriculture grew by 20.54% (y.o.y) to ₹2,36,953 Cr as at September 2023.

Asset Quality

     Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) ratio stood at 4.76% as at September 2023 as against 5.15% as at June 2023, 6.37% as at September 2022.

     Net Non-Performing Assets (NNPA) ratio stood at 1.41% as at September 2023 as against 1.57% as at June 2023, 2.19% as at September 2022.

     Provision Coverage Ratio (PCR) improved to 88.73% as at September 2023 from 85.36% as at September 2022.

Capital Adequacy

      CRAR stood at 16.20% as at September 2023. Out of which CET1 is 11.58%, Tier-I is 13.60% and Tier-II is 2.60%.

Priority Sector & Financial Inclusion

     The Bank has achieved Targets in Priority Sector at 45.51% and Agricultural Credit at 21.39% of ANBC as at September 2023, as against the norm of 40% and 18% respectively.

     Credit to small and marginal farmers stood at 15.13% of ANBC, against the norm of 10%.

     Credit to Weaker Sections stood at 21.51% of ANBC, against the norm of 12%.

Network

      As on 30.09.2023, the Bank has 9518 Number of Domestic Branches, out of which 3059 are Rural,2717 Semi Urban,1895 Urban & 1847 Metro along with 10553 ATMs. Bank is also having 4 International Branches in London, New York, Dubai and Gift City (Gandhinagar).

Millions of individuals worldwide suffer from depression, a mental health issue that is rarely discussed openly. Physical, psychological and emotional well-being all are impacted by depression. Depression is a vicious cycle that needs to be attended to as early as possible. However, the stigma associated with discussing mental illness prevents people from receiving help and treatment.

October is recognized as National Depression Awareness Month. The initiative talks about taking steps to increase awareness about depression and foster mental health well-being. It also addresses depression, causes, effects, and coping strategies.

Depression not only results in changes in appetite, sleep difficulties, or prolonged sadness but also affects routine, work, and relationships. “People must join together to ensure that no one walks the path of depression and suffers,” stated Aashmeen Munjal. They have to find a way back with compassion and assistance.”

The purpose of Depression Awareness Month is to emphasize that mental and physical health are intertwined. It encourages communication in order to break down barriers associated with stigma, increase knowledge of early indications and symptoms, and, finally, offer counsel on early intervention. Many communities and organizations have been formed to support those who need help.

Doctors still don’t have a comprehensive treatment for depression. Sometimes the medication prescribed doesn’t help. Instead, the medication can cause serious problems. People suffering from depression must practice yoga, meditation, and gratitude which will help them to ease the same.

People suffering from depression hesitate to come forward and speak about it openly. They must change it. In order to free themselves from the same they need to open up. One way of dealing with depression is to communicate to friends and family. It is important and advisable to attend workshops or seminars to learn more about mental health.

New Delhi, 27th October 2023 | Mahāsa Ghar, a pioneering lifestyle collective, officially unveiled its 3D Lifestyle Storefront today, to offer users a unique shopping experience that harmonizes ethicality, heritage, and conscious living. After months of anticipation, the Mahāsa Ghar website is now live.

The platform offers a diverse collection of fashion, beauty, room, bath, and body essentials. The Mahāsa Ghar website is driven by 3D and AR technologies enabling an experiential e-commerce storefront. This is a platform where ethical brands, sustainable products, and cultural heritage converge to create a more meaningful and conscious shopping experience, especially for this season of festivities.

Commenting on the launch, Founder and CEO Kanishka Tripathi states, “Mahāsa Ghar is a conscious shopper’s dream destination, and we are delighted to bring Mahāsa Ghar to life. In a world besieged by overconsumption, we champion the cause of artisanal craftsmanship, intricate detailing, and ethical commerce. We stand as architects of a vision where mindful living meets exceptional products. As we embrace the festivities, let us also embrace a new way of interacting with the art of buying. Together, we are redefining the future of retail, one ethical choice at a time.”

Mahāsa Ghar’s 3D environment and interactive e-commerce storefront is an oasis of ethical living. By rejecting overconsumption and embracing artisanal craftsmanship, it encourages a slower, more mindful approach to celebrating the festivities. Join Mahāsa Ghar in celebrating a more conscious way of living by choosing living spaces that pay homage to heritage and tradition, making each purchase a celebration of culture and values.