Archives May 2024

Chennai, 27th May 2024: ZF Commercial Vehicle Control Systems India Limited today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IITM), focusing on the ‘Mobility and Intelligent Transportation’ (MInT), which has an ambitious goal of building the Bharat Multi-Modal Mobility Stack (BM3S). The BM3S is a game-changing digital mobility infrastructure empowering the development of holistic system solutions for sustainable and intelligent transportation globally.

“At ZF, we are committed to shaping the future of mobility with innovative solutions that are technologically advanced and create connected, safe, smart, and sustainable mobility,” says Mr. P. Kaniappan, Managing Director, ZF Commercial Vehicles Solutions India Limited. “This collaboration with IITM is a definitive step towards addressing the challenges of modern mobility. BM3S has the potential to revolutionize how we approach transportation, in India and the world, and we are excited to be a part of this groundbreaking initiative and in the overall greater digital mobility.”

Dr. Christian Brenneke, Head of R&D and System Solutions – Sr VP, Engineering Solutions, ZF CVS stated, “Modern India’s mobility challenges are also reflective of the issues faced worldwide. ZF is at the forefront of driving cutting edge mobility technologies and solutions that most effectively address these issues, with the potential to transform and scale up for global needs. The MInT collaborative is a testament to this vision and will give a greater impetus to the initiative. Through continued collaboration between industry leaders like the ZF Group, forward thinking government agencies, and globally recognized academic institutions like IIT Madras, the industry will be better positioned to accelerate the development of cutting-edge mobility technologies.”

Prof. Manu Santhanam, Dean of Industrial Consulting and Sponsored Research, at IIT Madras stated: “IIT Madras is committed to bringing about technological innovations through translational research. We have multiple centers working in the area of mobility and digital technologies. The MInT collaborative and this partnership with ZF, a global leader in mobility products and solutions, will help accelerate mobility research to practice.

With a focus on safety, sustainability, and equity, BM3S will pave the way for significant advancements in electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and intelligent transportation systems. It aims to seamlessly integrate data streams, payment systems, vehicle technologies, and digital twin models.

Working together this collaboration aims to co-create a digital platform that will drive the development of holistic system solutions aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including:

• Sustainable Transport (11.2): Achieve a 50% reduction in total transport emissions.
• Accident Prevention (3.6): Reduce fatalities by 50%.
• Energy Efficiency (7.3): Ensure 50% of all transport comes from net zero modes.

A Ganesamoorthy, Head of Engineering, CVS R&D, Region India, is the lead for this collaborative from ZF and will facilitate co-creating system solutions that enable Mobility and Intelligent Transport with digital infrastructure as the innovation engine.

Dr. Ramakrishna Srinivasan, the CEO, MInT Collaborative, IIT Madras stated, “By bringing together industry, government, and academia, the MInT consortium will co-create BM3S, laying the foundation for a safer, more sustainable, and equitable mobility ecosystem. We are happy to anchor the MInT Collaborative with world-leading technological and human resources in numerous fields. This initiative is the beginning of the exciting technology journey to bring to life the ‘Mobility Dreams for a Billion’. Mobility – safe, and efficient movement of people and goods – is the backbone of the modern economy. Digital infrastructure complements and optimizes the physical infrastructure and is an innovation engine to advance future mobility.”

Prof. Gitakrishnan Ramadurai, Faculty In-charge, MInT Collaborative, IIT Madras said: “The Bharat Multi-Modal Mobility Stack is a digital platform to foster the “Build for India, Solve for the World” Goals. It defines mobility as a digital public good and serves as a benchmark for standardizing, developing and deploying mobility tools and services for a billion and more. “

New Delhi 27th May 2024: In a significant move to redefine senior living in India, Manasum Group, one of the fastest-growing senior living brands, has introduced “Banyan” at Godrej Royale Woods in North Bengaluru. This serene sanctuary for seniors offers a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and holistic wellness, setting a new benchmark for retirement homes in the country.

Strategically located just a 5-minute drive from the KIAL airport toll, Banyan features ready-to-move-in 1 & 2 BHK residences starting from Rs 60 lakh onwards. These elegant and sophisticated homes are designed to meet the discerning needs of today’s seniors, blending convenience with style in a tranquil environment.

Banyan’s commitment to holistic living is evident through its comprehensive range of amenities aimed at ensuring the physical, emotional, and social well-being of its residents. The facility includes in-house nursing care, 24×7 ambulance services, wheelchair-friendly infrastructure, emergency alarm systems, housekeeping, and meal options. Every detail is meticulously crafted to prioritize the safety, security, and peace of mind of its residents.

“With Manasum Banyan, we aim to redefine the concept of retirement living by offering a holistic and enriching lifestyle that promotes wellness, community, and joy. Our vision is to create a vibrant and inclusive community where residents can thrive in every aspect of their lives, surrounded by nature’s bounty and unparalleled amenities,” said Mr. Anantharam Varayur, Co-founder of Manasum Senior Living Homes.

Kushal Ramesh, co-founder of Manasum, highlighted the company’s existing Greenfield senior living apartment in southern Bengaluru, launched Four years ago. “However, it becomes difficult for smaller developers to pour extensive capital into such projects. Additionally, today’s seniors prefer to stay within the city and close to bustling areas. Hence, we decided to extend the idea of Intergenerational communities “he explained.

Ramesh noted that partnerships are more practical than complete buyouts at an early stage due to the substantial capital involved. “We only pursue buyouts for projects that are nearing completion and have proper senior living designs in place,” he added.

Anantharam mentioned that Bengaluru has the potential to absorb 10,000 units of senior living apartments over the next couple of years. “By the next financial year, we will add 2000 more units by 2025 totaling 2500 units under Manasum. We are already in talks with developers to explore the integrated concept,” he said.

Spanning 13 acres, the Banyan project comprises 191 residences while the project Godrej Royale Woods has 1678 units in total and features over 1000 trees, creating a tranquil sanctuary amidst the bustling cityscape. The community offers unparalleled convenience and luxury, with residents able to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying a variety of recreational activities. From Hammock Gardens and Jogging Tracks to Meditation Decks and Outdoor BBQ areas, Banyan provides a unique blend of relaxation and active living.

Manasum Group’s Banyan at Godrej Royale Woods continues to set a high standard for elderly homes in India, offering a sanctuary where seniors can enjoy a harmonious and fulfilling lifestyle.

27th May 2024: The unstoppable Simiran Kaur Dhadli, from Punjab, also known as The Woman King returns to her throne in the hip-hop realm as she drops a new banger “Dupatta Drill.” Combined with hints of Punjabi and Haryanvi twists, this fierce track celebrates her Jaatni swag in all its glory. Showcasing Simiran’s undeniable strength and courage, the electrifying beats leave an indelible impression on the audience.

Featuring the charming Pranjal Dahiya in the music video along with Simiran, the throbbing rhythm of “Dupatta Drill ” carves a lasting impression. Pulsating with captivating enthusiasm with the masterful lyricism of Rawme Hooda. Produced by the talented Stanley Christ, the track exceptionally portrays the vision of Honey Virk, whose direction brings together a fusion of traditional and hip-hop styles.

Sharing her excitement on the release, singer-performer Simiran Kaur Dhadli shared, “This song is a deeply personal celebration of my culture and tradition blended with confidence and swag. Dupatta Drill has allowed me to explore my roots through a mix of ancestral Punjabi and Haryanvi beats. I can’t wait for the listeners to enjoy the track and to celebrate love.”

Pune, India – In a grand ceremony held today in Pune, Indian film director Utkarsh K. Nemade was awarded the prestigious Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rashtriya Jeevan Gaurav Puraskaar. This national award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation in their respective fields.

Utkarsh Nemade, a prodigious talent in the Indian film industry, holds the unique distinction of being the first Indian to achieve four world records in a single year. At just 16 years old, he founded MOHRAN’s Productions, a film production company that has since distributed over 25 Hindi and Marathi films. His remarkable achievements in such a short span have made him a standout figure in the industry.

The award ceremony was organized by the Global Scholar Foundation, which honors individuals from across India for their exceptional contributions. The award was presented by Padmashri Dr. Vijaykumar Shah, a renowned dental surgeon with over 25 honorary doctorates (HC) and 50 fellowships to his name.

Utkarsh was the youngest recipient at the ceremony, highlighting not only his extraordinary accomplishments but also his potential to inspire the younger generation. His dedication and passion for filmmaking have set a high benchmark in the industry, and his contributions have significantly enriched Indian cinema.

The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rashtriya Jeevan Gaurav Puraskaar serves as a testament to Utkarsh K. Nemade’s relentless pursuit of excellence and his unwavering commitment to the arts. As he continues to break new ground, his journey stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring filmmakers and artists across the nation.

Nestled amidst the arid terrain of Rajasthan, Lakheriis is surrounded by farmland and villages. The town in Bundi district is situated about 180 km from the state capital Jaipur, and crops like wheat, soybean, and mustard are commonly grown here. Its residents rely on traditional methods of farming but in recent years, the lack of timely rainfall has become a matter of concern.

The region gets about 638 mm of rainfall annually but lacks an efficient rainwater harvesting, water management, and conservation system. As a result of this, the villages here face drinking water shortages during the summer. Over the years, several people have moved out to work as laborers at nearby brick kilns or to other parts of the country in search of a livelihood.

In Lakheri, the need for irrigation is not just a matter of convenience; it is needed for sustenance. Driven by the need for an efficient irrigation network to help farmers, the Adani Foundation worked closely with the local communities to build a facility in the Kankra Dungar and Utrana villages.

A tributary of the Chambal passes about 4km from these villages, and a system has been set up to supply water from it to nearby farmland through underground PVC pipes. The project benefits nearly 500 farmer families in the villages, who have cultivable land in the ACC Lakheri Cement Project catchment area. In coordination with the local communities, village-level committees have been set up to take care of the operation, management, and maintenance of their irrigation system.

Earlier, more than 90% of farmers grew a single crop every year–urad and soybean in the Kharif season. Barely 10% of farmers cultivated in the Rabi season, growing crops like mustard, wheat, and gram.

After the new irrigation system was built, the situation changed for the better. Now, many farmers have adopted a multi-crop model to increase their income and diversify crops across all seasons. And the results started showing soon enough. In the first year of its operation, additional crop cultivation was recorded and the average yield per hectare increased by 20%-30% due to the availability of water.

According to a local villager, in the very first year, he was able to produce 16 quintals of wheat and 14 quintals of mustard, whose market value was more than Rs 1 lakh.

The irrigation system has not only ensured a livelihood for farmers in the region but is also helping reduce the migration of locals in search of jobs. Truly, a win-win situation for all.

New Delhi, 27th May 2024 – Snitch, a leading D2C men’s fast fashion brand today announced the expansion of its exclusive stores to Vadodara, Gujarat. The first store was launched on April 17th, 2024, at Neptune Trion, in the heart of Vadodara. This is also the brand’s largest store in Gujarat. The second store was inaugurated on May 19th, 2024, at EVA Mall, Vadodara.

With the inauguration, the company now has 6 exclusive stores in India, including two stores each in Surat and Bangalore. These stores showcase the latest in men’s apparel and accessories, inviting patrons to immerse themselves in a world of style and elegance.

“We’re thrilled to introduce Snitch’s style and quality to Vadodara,” said Siddharth Dungarwal, Founder & CEO of Snitch. “Our focus has always been on delivering exceptional shopping experiences, both online and offline. Our stores provide us a chance to interact with thousands of customers and learn about their unique tastes and preferences. These learnings, along with our deep experience in men’s fashion, enable us to craft more relevant and compelling offerings for our customers. Our latest stores in Vadodara are an extension of the same philosophy.”

Dungarwal further added, “We are committed to growing our offline presence. Soon, we will add multiple stores in urban India.”

Snitch has already garnered a loyal following for its trendy designs, high-quality products, and sustainability efforts. The brand’s expansion into new markets reflects its growing popularity and the increasing demand for its products.

This Sunday on Sony Entertainment Television, the young contestants of ‘Superstar Singer 3’ will pay a touching tribute to the legendary Mohammed Rafi in the ‘Rafi Night’ episode. Renowned lyricist and poet Manoj Muntashir, acclaimed actor Raza Murad, and celebrated singers Shabbir Kumar and Vineet Singh will grace the show, sharing fascinating trivia about Rafi Ji and his iconic songs. The stage will also welcome television actor Sayli Salunkhe, who will be seen playing Vedika in the channel’s upcoming drama ‘Pukaar Dil Se Dil,’ which premieres on 27th May and will air every Monday to Friday at 8.30 PM.

But it was the exceptionally talented 12-year-old Atharva Bakshi from Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, part of Captain Pawandeep Rajan’s team, who captivated the audience with his heartfelt renditions of “Abhi Na Jao Chhod Kar” and “Tum Jo Mil Gaye Ho” from the films “Hum Dono” and “Hanste Zakhm.”

An impressed Manoj Muntashir applauded the act, saying, “When Atharva was singing, people behind me were saying to each other that ‘He’s a Nanha Rafi.’ So, I’m borrowing my comment from them, you truly are a little Rafi. You sang two songs, both by legendary composers – one by Jaidev Sahab and one by Madan Mohan Sahab. These songs were created long before you were born, but it felt like you had learned from Jaidev Sahab or Madan Mohan Sahab themselves, sitting with them in their music rooms. You sang so well. Many blessings to you.”

Mesmerized by the performance, Super Judge Neha Kakkar complimented Atharva, saying, ” You sing with such dedication, and these two songs by Rafi Sahab are so different. A singer’s identity is recognized through such versatility. Performing two completely different types of songs on one stage shows how amazing and versatile you are. Today, I want to say something to you, Atharva, ‘Baitho na durr humse, dekho khafaa na ho, kismat se mil gaye ho, milke juda na ho.’

Captain Salman Ali also added, “I will call him Atharva Ji because whenever this child sings, something amazing is bound to happen. I always look at him with great respect and admiration. Many singers perform well, but it’s rare to look at someone with such affection and think that’s something special. Atharva has earned that respect by singing so well. You are incredible, Atharva. No matter how much I praise you, it will never be enough because you create a unique atmosphere every time you perform. Well done. Very impressive.”

Following his mesmerizing performance, singer Shabbir Kumar gifted Atharva a self-made sketch of Mohammed Rafi ji as well. Making for yet another charming moment, Sayli aka Vedika from “Pukaar Dil Se Dil Tak” made a special request for Atharva and Devansriya to sing the lullaby of her show, which brings to life the poignant bond shared by a mother and her two daughters.

27th May 2024: Candlelight Concerts, the globally acclaimed series of intimate multi-sensory live musical experiences, is all set to captivate India with the first performances in the country, happening in Mumbai, New Delhi and Faridabad from June 2024. Produced by Live Your City, a brand under the American company Fever Labs Inc., the leading global live-entertainment discovery platform, Candlelight Concerts are a series of original music concerts aimed at democratizing access to classical music by allowing people all over the world to enjoy live music performances in an intimate setting illuminated by thousands of candles.

The concerts line-up – starting in June across Mumbai and Delhi and getting to Faridabad in July– is a captivating blend of classical and contemporary music to cater to diverse musical preferences. Grand Hyatt Mumbai will host the India premiere with “Best Movie Soundtracks” on June 2. Music connoisseurs who miss the premiere will have another opportunity to experience the soundtracks on July 13 and August 4. The Four Seasons in Mumbai will resonate with the anthems of Coldplay played by a local string quartet on June 15, July 19, and August 17.

Delhi’s audiences can look forward to a classic musical journey with the elegance of “From Mozart to Chopin” at the SRCPA on June 14, July 12, and August 9. The same venue will reverberate to “Best Movie Soundtracks” on June 28, July 26, and August 23, while Le Meridien will come alive with the vibrant energy of Coldplay’s iconic hits reinterpreted with classical instruments on June 16, July 6, and August 16. These Candlelight Concert programs will also reach the Radisson Blu Hotel in Faridabad from July 5.

“We are thrilled to see outstanding places in India being transformed by our renowned candlelit setting,”said RachidElameri, Regional General Manager of MENA, APAC & India, LIVE YOUR CITY. “Candlelight concerts’s mission is to democratize access to classical music while working with unique spaces that are part of each city’s cultural heritage, giving visibility to talented local artists, and bringing a wide variety of programs to attend local audiences’ expectations and meet all tastes. We believe that the Candlelight Concerts will resonate deeply with Indian audiences, who have a rich appreciation for art, culture, and music”.

“We are deeply honored to showcase the globally renowned Candlelight Concert Series and host its premiere performance in India at the Grand Hyatt Mumbai,” said DietmarKielnhofer, General Manager and Area Vice President, Hyatt West India. “Our commitment to creating exceptional and memorable experiences for our guests is reflected in every detail of these enchanting concerts. The ambiance of thousands of candles combined with mesmerizing music will provide an unforgettable evening for our guests. We are excited to be at the forefront of this cultural journey, making classical music accessible and engaging for a new generation of enthusiasts.”

The Candlelight concept is particularly renowned for taking classical concerts beyond opera houses and concert halls and into venues that are part of each city’s cultural scene. Candlelight concerts of varying scales have been hosted in all kinds of idyllic locations, spanning from modern rooftops with great views to iconic cathedrals, palaces, libraries, gardens, and more. Amongst the most iconic of these locations have been the Atomium in Belgium, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah in Dubai, among others. This is the first time that these unique experiences are being held in India.

Check out the upcoming programming in India:

MUMBAI

Candlelight: Best Movie Soundtracks
Venue: Grand Hyatt Mumbai
Dates and Times: June 2, July 13, August 4 (Time- 18:30 &21:00 )
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Local String Quartet – to be announced soon
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,199 onwards

Candlelight: Tribute to Coldplay
Venue: Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai
Dates and Times: June 15, July 19 (Time- 17:00, 19:00 & 21:00 )
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Local String Quartet – to be announced soon
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,499 onwards

Candlelight: From Mozart to Chopin
Venue: Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai
Dates and Times: August 17 (Time- 17:00, 19:00 &21:00 )
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Pianist – Tavan Shah
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,499 onwards

DELHI

Candlelight: From Mozart to Chopin
Venue: Shri Ram Centre for Performing Arts (SRCPA)
Dates and Times: June 14, July 12, August 9 (Time- 18:30 & 20:30)
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Pianist – VashuTangri
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,199 onwards

Candlelight: Best Movie Soundtracks
Venue: Shri Ram Centre for Performing Arts (SRCPA)
Dates and Times: June 28, July 26, August 23 (Time-18:30 & 20:30)
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Local String Quartet – to be announced soon
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,199 onwards

Candlelight: Tribute to Coldplay
Venue: Le Meridien
Dates and Times: June 16, July 6, August 16 (Time- 18:15 & 21:00)
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Pianist – VashuTangri
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,499 onwards

FARIDABAD

Candlelight: Tribute to Coldplay
Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel
Dates and Times: July 5 (Time- 19:00)
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Local Pianist – To be announced soon
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,199 onwards

Candlelight: From Mozart to Chopin
Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel
Dates and Times: July 5 (Time- 21:00)
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Local Pianist – To be announced soon
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,199 onwards

Candlelight: Best Movie Soundtracks
Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel
Dates and Times: August 10 (Time- 19:00 & 21:00)
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Local Pianist – To be announced soon
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,199 onwards

Bengaluru,27th May 2024 – RV University’s School of Computer Science and Engineering (SoCSE) inaugurated the Center for Quantum Sciences and Technologies (CQST) on Thursday, May 23, 2024. The Center was inaugurated by Prof. Tarun Souradeep, Director of the Raman Research Institute, Bengaluru. The Center for Quantum Sciences and Technologies (CQST) aims to lead research and development in various aspects of quantum sciences, including quantum physics, materials, devices, computing, biology, pharmacology, sensing, imaging, metrology, and machine learning (quantum AI).

Along with the inauguration, RV University (RVU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with industry partner QpiAI, marking a significant step towards industry-academia collaboration in quantum technologies.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries including Sri D. P. Nagaraj, Pro-Chancellor of RV University, Dr. Y.S.R. Murthy, Vice Chancellor, Assistant Secretary of RSST, Mr. Nikhil Murthy and Dr. G. Shobha, Dean of School of Computer Science and Engineering (SoCSE) along with Dr. K.N. Subramanya, Principal, RV College Of Engineering. The event was conducted by RV Chair Professor Dr. P. C. Deshmukh, who will lead CQST. At the event, professors C.V.S.N. Reddy and S. Vaidyanathan outlined the center’s future activities.

Dr. Y.S.R. Murthy, Vice Chancellor of RV University, emphasised the significance of the Center for Quantum Sciences and Technologies (CQST) in fostering innovative research and education in quantum sciences and said “The inauguration of Quantum Science and Technology (CQST) marks a milestone in RV University’s commitment to advancing scientific research and education. CQST will lead RVU projects in diverse fields of quantum sciences and technologies, encompassing all aspects of quantum physics, quantum materials, quantum devices, quantum computing, quantum biology, quantum pharmacology, quantum sensing, quantum imaging, quantum metrology, quantum machine learning (quantum AI) etc. The CQST at SoCSE, RVU will provide an umbrella opportunity for students and faculty across the RV Institutions to undertake research and development work in interdisciplinary quantum sciences.”

Prof. Tarun Souradeep, Director of the Raman Research Institute congratulated the team at RVU about the launch of Center for Quantum Sciences and Technologies (CQST), and said, “The establishment of the Center for Quantum Sciences and Technologies at RV University is a significant step towards exploring the potential of quantum technologies. This center will play a crucial role in driving research and development, and I am honored to be a part of its inauguration.”

Educational Opportunities at Center for Quantum Sciences and Technologies (CQST):

The Center for Quantum Sciences and Technologies (CQST) will not only focus on advanced research but also on education, offering new undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These will include majors and minors in B.Tech. and M.Tech. in Quantum Engineering and Engineering Physics, along with M.Sc. programs at the upcoming Mysuru campus of RVU. These courses are designed to prepare students for the burgeoning field of quantum sciences, equipping them with the knowledge and skills required for future innovations.

Mumbai: Billabong High International School in Malad and Juhu has achieved a 100% success rate in the 2024 Cambridge IGCSE exams. The result was declared on 23rd May by the board.

At Billabong Malad, Tanishka Desai emerged as the Grade 10 topper with the highest 94.83% marks followed by Deanna Misquith with 90.83% and Riya Bhojwani with 90.17%, securing the second and third positions respectively. In Grade 12 results, Jiya Gupta topped with 87.25%, while Siddharth Kukreja scored 85.25% and stood 2nd.

Whereas, students of Billabong High International School, Juhu have also excelled in this year’s IGCSE exams with Diva Gupta securing the first rank scoring 88.30% marks, followed by Palaash Munot with 87.33% and Durga Adesara with 85.83% marks.

Dr Radhika Srinivasan, Principal of Billabong High International School, Malad said, “We are extremely proud of our students’ exceptional performance in the IGCSE and A Level exams. Their dedication and hard work have truly paid off. The Cambridge curriculum offered at Billabong equips students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills have played a major role in preparing them for global opportunities and future challenges. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all our achievers and their families.”

Anahita Landers, Principal of Billabong High International School, Juhu, highlighted the students’ determination and resilience, especially during challenging times. She acknowledged the continuous support from families and the dedication of the faculty, which were integral to the student’s success.