Archives February 2025

Hyderabad, February 5, 2025: HDFC Bank, India’s leading private sector bank, announced the launch of the eighth edition of its flagship Parivartan Start-up Grants programme. This year, 15+ incubators and accelerators have been selected and onboarded to support 50–60 start-ups working in the social impact space. The programme will award grants of up to ₹50 lakh to selected start-ups, with a total programme budget of ₹20 crore.

IIT Madras, IIM Ahmedabad Ventures, Villgro,ICAR Pusa Krishi, IIT Guwahati Bionest, ASPIRE – University of Hyderabad, IIM-Calcutta Innovation Park, i-Hub Gujarat, Kerala Start-Up Mission, IFMR Catalyst AIC are among the incubators already shortlisted this year.

Over the next few months, these incubators will invite applications from social entrepreneurs across India. This initiative will culminate in a series of “Demo Day” events, showcasing start-ups to the Bank, investors, corporates, and media, ensuring greater visibility and opportunities for these ventures.

Key Focus Areas for FY25

In line with HDFC Bank’s commitment to sustainable development and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the programme will focus on:

1. AI For Social Good

2. Climate Innovation

3. Financial Inclusion

4. Agriculture and Sustainable Rural Economy

5. Education and Livelihood Enhancement

6. Gender Diversity and Inclusion

Selected start-ups will represent diverse regions of India, including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana and North-East region states.

“Our Parivartan Start-up Grants programme is a testament to our commitment to fostering innovation and addressing critical societal needs. By nurturing social start-ups that are implementing solutions aimed at achieving SDG targets, we aim to support the creation of sustainable, inclusive solutions for communities across India,” said Mr. Kaizad Bharucha, DMD, HDFC Bank.

“Through strategic partnerships with incubators and accelerators, we are building a robust start-up ecosystem. The programme empowers entrepreneurs with resources and visibility, enabling them to scale impactful solutions and contribute to India’s development journey. Through the Parivartan Start-up Grants programme we aim to empower these innovative ventures to make a meaningful impact and create a better future for all,” said Mr. Arup Rakshit, Group Head, Treasury, HDFC Bank.

National, February 5th, 2025: Navigating your period and overall health just got smarter and easier. Meet the SOFY Club App, your new go-to companion for menstrual wellness. Designed to simplify cycle tracking while empowering users with insights and education, the app also aims to normalize conversations around menstruation. SOFY, the trusted feminine hygiene brand by Unicharm, proudly introduces its first digital offering in India. The SOFY Club App is available for free download on Android and iOS, marking a significant step forward in menstrual health management for Indian women.

If you’ve ever wished for a tool that truly “gets you,” the SOFY Club App is here to change the game. More than just a menstrual tracker, this app is designed to simplify period tracking while offering deep insights into your physical and emotional well-being. From predicting your next cycle to decoding why you might feel “off” today, it blends intuitive tracking, insightful analytics, and medically verified knowledge to empower every user.

Most period tracking apps stop at just tracking cycles. SOFY Club goes beyond, helping users understand their bodies, moods, and emotions with medically verified solutions,” says Ai Mizushima, Senior Brand Manager, Unicharm India. “With its fun and conversational design, the app makes every interaction engaging and relatable, perfectly catering to the tech-savvy yet compassionate needs of today’s women.”

The SOFY Club App interface has no unnecessary pop-ups for a smoother and personalized experience. The app ensures learning about your health feels effortless—not like homework. The app is packed with amazing features designed to make your period and non-period days easier:

1. Free of Cost: Yep, you read that right. All the amazing features mentioned below are free—because everyone deserves easy, accessible menstrual health management.
2. Smart Period Tracker: Want to stay ahead of the game? Let our smart predictions for periods, ovulation, and PMS help you plan your days better.
3. All-in-One Health Manager: Think beyond periods! Track your body, mental, and vaginal health—all in one app—and uncover insights you didn’t know you needed.
4. Your Private Journal: Got thoughts, mood swings, or private moments to share? Write them down with total peace of mind—because what’s written in SOFY stays in SOFY.
5. Personalized Recommendations: Ever wished for a BFF who knows your flow? Get product advice tailored to your unique cycle and patterns.
6. Medically Verified Knowledge: Curious about PCOS or uterine fibroids? Dive into bite-sized, trustworthy resources and videos to get answers that actually make sense.
7. Mood-Driven UI: From sassy one-liners to visuals that vibe with your mood, this app feels like chatting with your BFF.
8. Insightful Analytics: Forget the guessing games! Smart analysis of your cycles and health logs keeps you in the know and in control.

“We knew the app had to do more than just track periods and feel as intuitive as having a chat with a close friend,” shares Shradha Agarwal, Co-Founder & Global CEO, Grapes Digital. “It needed to educate, empathize, and empower. We designed SOFY Club’s UI/UX to be intuitive, interactive, and insightful—an app that listens to you, understands your needs, and offers meaningful support.”

NCPA is thrilled to announce the return of The Gentlemen’s Club following its smash hit run last September! Experience Patchwork Ensemble’s electrifying new version of their critically acclaimed show, taking you deep into Mumbai’s pulsating underground club scene.

Step into the exhilarating lives of the city’s drag kings, led by the enigmatic Rocky, also known as Shammsher. Rocky’s act is a dynamic tribute to the legendary Shammi Kapoor and the golden era of Hindi cinema. Alongside Rocky, a diverse ensemble of women embraces the art of drag, delivering a cabaret-style performance that transports audiences into a gritty, hidden world where identities are fluid, and you can be anyone you desire.

Featuring a dazzling mix of dance, music, and projection, The Gentlemen’s Club unfolds an exciting, provocative narrative that celebrates women and their exploration of masculinity. Don’t miss this bold, boundary-pushing performance that’s as entertaining as it is thought-provoking!

The NCPA run of Gentlemen’s Club comes right before the production hits London’s West End at the Soho Theatre. This will mark the first theatre collaboration between the NCPA and the renowned London venue.

This World Cancer Day, Ketto proudly presents “Hope. Survival. Impact.”—a video campaign celebrating the remarkable journeys of cancer survivors who have triumphed over adversity with the support of our compassionate community. These stories exemplify the profound impact of collective generosity, underscoring the power of crowdfunding in transforming lives.

In India, cancer remains a significant health challenge, with a large number of new cases diagnosed each year. Among these, blood cancers account for a substantial proportion. Advancements in medical treatments have improved survival rates. However, the financial burden of cancer treatment is considerable, often making life-saving care inaccessible for many families.

Because of Ketto, many patients and their families have been able to raise essential funds for their medical treatment. Our platform has witnessed an outpouring of support, with countless individuals contributing to campaigns that fund critical cancer treatments and chemotherapy.

Inspiring Stories of Resilience

Our campaign features heartfelt testimonials from survivors and their families, highlighting the tangible difference that community support can make:

• Athwik’s Triumph Over Cancer: Diagnosed with B-lymphoblastic leukemia at just three years old, Athwik’s family turned to Ketto to fund his treatment. Through the generosity of donors, they raised ₹20 lakh, enabling timely medical intervention. Today, Athwik is cancer-free, embodying resilience and the power of collective goodwill.
• Shahista’s Second Chance After Cancer: After losing her father to cancer, Shahista faced her own battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. When the disease recurred aggressively, a costly bone marrow transplant was her only hope. Her family member initiated a fundraiser on Ketto, and the community rallied to raise ₹30 lakh. Now, Shahista is in good health, a testament to unwavering determination and communal support.
• Sreeraj’s New Beginning After Cancer: Three-year-old Sreeraj’s joyful life was disrupted by a severe form of blood cancer. His parents, unable to afford the necessary chemotherapy, sought help through Ketto. With the assistance of compassionate donors, they secured ₹5 lakh for his treatment. Today, Sreeraj is thriving, a symbol of hope and the impact of shared humanity.
• Aves’s Journey to Recovery: Fifteen-year-old Aves faced the risk of losing his leg to a malignant tumor. His mother, earning a modest income, turned to Ketto to fund the ₹3 lakh required for surgery. The community’s generosity ensured Aves received the necessary treatment, allowing him to walk again and pursue his dreams.

These stories are a fraction of the numerous lives transformed through Ketto’s platform. They highlight not only the resilience of individuals but also the extraordinary impact of collective action.

Television brings together many talented actors, but some friendships take years to translate into on-screen collaborations. Ishq Jabariya on Sun Neo is making this happen as actress Dipshikkha Nagpal joins the show as Devi Sahay. What makes her entry even more special is that she will finally share screen space with Kamya Panjabi, who plays Mohini. Despite knowing each other for over fifteen years, this marks their first collaboration, making it an exciting moment for both the actresses and their fans.

Expressing her excitement, Dipshikkha shared, “Kamya is a fantastic actress with a strong personality. When we met on the set of Ishq Jabariya on Sun Neo, we hugged, and now it’s finally happening—we’re working together! We’ve known each other for over fifteen years but never had the chance to collaborate. Usually, when a role comes up, it’s either Kamya or me who gets selected, as we’re often considered for similar characters. But for the first time, we’re sharing the screen, and I couldn’t be more excited.”

The Ishq Jabariya actress further added, “Working with her is so much fun because when two strong personalities come together, it creates an exciting dynamic. She is not only a brilliant actress but also a wonderful person. I’m really looking forward to our scenes, and the few we’ve shot so far have been an absolute delight.”

Mumbai, February 04, 2025: Round Table India is delighted to announce the resounding success of the 48th edition of the Silent Olympiad, held on February 1, 2025, at the University of Mumbai.

This incredible annual charity event brought together children with hearing and speech impairments to showcase their talents and abilities through the unifying spirit of sports.

The Silent Olympiad 2025 was a testament to nearly 50 years of promoting integration, athleticism, and friendship. The event provided a platform for young contenders to demonstrate their skills, celebrate their achievements, and inspire others to dream bigger.

 With a focus on acceptance and empowerment, the Silent Olympiad redefined possibilities and highlighted the transformative power of sportsmanship.

The day was filled with thrilling sporting events where students displayed great skill, determination, and teamwork. The atmosphere was uplifting, celebrating talent, strengthening friendships, and promoting a spirit of inclusion. Attendees witnessed the triumph of dreams, and the potential of a platform designed to inspire young people.

The event was graced by the presence of Mr. Satyanarayan Choudhary, Joint Commissioner of Police (Law and Order), as the Chief Guest. In previous years, notable personalities like Mr. Vatsal Sheth have also attended as chief guests. The event was further supported by Round Table India’s National Treasurer, Mr. Sumit Chand, emphasising the significance of community and organisational involvement.

The Olympiad witnessed the enthusiastic participation of over 600 students and 100 teachers from different parts of India, including Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. The students, ranging in age from 5 to 17 years, showcased their talents and sportsmanship across a variety of events.

The sports categories were meticulously designed to cater to different age groups. For young participants, aged 5-8 years, fun games like the lemon and spoon race, sack race, and 3-legged race were held. Older students competed in more challenging events such as the 50m, 100m, 200m, and 400m races. Additionally, events like shot put, chess, and long jump added to the excitement and diversity of the competition.

The event also featured a cultural evening, showcasing the dynamic talents of the participants and celebrating their creativity and remarkable capabilities.

“Silent Olympiad is not just an event; it’s a movement that celebrates the invincible spirit of young athletes. It is a tribute to their courage, determination, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. At Round Table India, we are committed to fostering an environment where every child, regardless of their abilities, can thrive and achieve their dreams,’’ said Mr. Tr. Chaitanya Dev Singh, National President, Round Table India (RTI).

Echoing his views, Mr. Vishwanathan, Member of Round Table India, who started SILO 50 years ago, said,‘’Our mission is to promote equality and empowerment through various initiatives, and the Silent Olympiad is a shining example of this commitmentto uplift and support different communities across our nation.’’

Jaipur, 4th February, 2024 – Ryan Edunation School, Jaipur, marked a memorable weekend of celebration with back-to-back flagship events – the Annual Sports Day on January 25 and the 76th Republic Day celebration on January 26, 2025. The events showcased the school’s commitment to holistic education, combining academic excellence with physical fitness and cultural values.

 The Annual Sports Day commenced with the presence of distinguished guests including Shri Puneet Karnawat, Deputy Mayor of Greater Jaipur, and other prominent community leaders. The event began with a traditional welcome ceremony and featured a comprehensive briefing on the school’s Health Safety and Child Protection (HSCP) program. A highlight of the opening ceremony was the torch relay led by young sports achievers Eklavya Vishnoi, Adrika Amit, Atharva Tiwari, and Pahal Gangwani.

 The following day’s Republic Day celebration was graced by Yogacharya Dhakaram Sapkota, President of YogaPeace Sansthan and Vice-President of the National Institute of Holistic Health (NIH), along with school trustees Mrs. Sunita Chauhan and Mrs. Mekhla Chauhan. The event marked the culmination of the school’s innovative SPARK program, which focuses on comprehensive student development through sports, performing arts, and leadership training.

 A standout moment during the Republic Day celebration was Grade 8A student Ishika Mehla’s remarkable achievement of breaking 101 stone tiles in just 13 seconds, setting a new national record. The celebrations included diverse performances ranging from patriotic songs and French language presentations to yoga demonstrations and taekwondo displays.

 Principal Mr. Baharul Islam emphasized the school’s dedication to promoting well-rounded individuals: “These events represent our commitment to nurturing not just academic excellence, but also physical fitness, cultural awareness, and national pride. The enthusiasm and talent displayed by our students across both days truly embody our school’s vision of holistic education.”

 The two-day celebration saw participation from over 1000 attendees, including 650+ students, 50+ staff members, and numerous parents and distinguished guests. The events featured various competitions and demonstrations, including:

 ● Track and field events
● Team sports competitions
● Cultural performances
● Yoga and martial arts demonstrations
● Interactive parent-child activities
● SPARK program showcase

 The school has announced upcoming initiatives including a State-Level Yoga & Taekwondo Championship and an Inter-School Sports Meet, further reinforcing its commitment to promoting sportsmanship and excellence in both athletics and academics.

Mumbai, February 4 ,2025: QR678®, a pioneering company dedicated to revolutionizing hair science through clinical research and innovative solutions, has partnered with Spectra Medical, a leading distributor of high-quality aesthetic equipment and products. The collaboration aims to make cutting-edge, non-invasive hair restoration solutions of QR678 widely accessible across India addressing the growing demand for advanced, patient-friendly treatments.

Spectra Medical’s expertise in distributing high-quality medical equipment and products from some of the world’s leading manufacturers makes it an ideal partner to bring QR678’s solutions to a broader audience. Known for its commitment to innovation and quality, the company has played a vital role in equipping healthcare providers with state-of-the-art equipment that improves patient outcomes.

Speaking about this, Mr Indrajit Dutta, Vice President, QR678®, said, “Hair loss is not just a cosmetic concern; it often impacts emotional well-being and confidence. Our partnership with Spectra Medical is a strategic step to ensure QR678’s products reach clinics and patients nationwide, enabling them to experience world-class hair regrowth solutions. By joining forces with a partner that values quality and innovation, we’re confident in shaping the future of non-surgical hair restoration in India and be known as the Hair Science people.”

Adding further, Mr Ramamoorthy Sundaram, Managing Director of Spectra Medical, said, “At Spectra Medical, we’ve always believed in delivering solutions that add more beauty to our lives. QR678® is an exceptional addition to our portfolio, combining cutting-edge science with tangible results. This partnership reflects our commitment to providing the Indian healthcare industry with transformative products. Together, we aim to empower aesthetic practitioners with tools that redefine patient care standards in hair restoration.”

QR678 has emerged as a pioneering innovation in the field of hair regrowth therapy. Developed after years of rigorous research, this regulatory-approved treatment utilizes biomimetic polypeptides to stimulate hair follicles, effectively halting hair loss while promoting the density and thickness of existing hair. As a non-surgical solution, QR678 offers patients a safe and effective alternative to traditional procedures.

Faith is not something that fluctuates, it either exists or it doesn’t. In the absence of faith, fear takes root, shaping our reality and actions. But what happens when faith overcomes fear?! That’s the question at the heart of “The Prayer”, a short film that delves into the transformative power of unwavering faith.

Marking the debut of celebrated actor Makarand Deshpande as a producer, “The Prayer” is a deeply moving and thought-provoking film. Written and directed by Nivedita Pohankar, the film stars Aaditi Pohankar, Makarand Deshpande, and Smita Jayakar. It tells the story of a woman fighting for her brother’s life, caught between the desperation of an uncertain fate and the power of prayer.

Nivedita Pohankar reflects on the essence of the film, stating, “Faith is something deeply personal. It isn’t bound by religion, it’s the silent cry of the heart when everything else seems out of control. This film is an exploration of that raw, human emotion.” She adds, “Directing “The Prayer” was a profound experience. It gave me an opportunity to work with a brilliant team and tell a story that resonates deeply in the world we live in today, one filled with uncertainty, but also immense hope.”

The movie’s breathtaking cinematography is skillfully crafted by Amit Roy, capturing every frame with stunning visual storytelling. The seamless editing by Deepa Bhatia ensures a gripping and smooth narrative flow. The immersive sound design and meticulous re-recording mix by Kunal Mehta and Parikshit Lalvani enhance the film’s atmosphere, drawing the audience deeper into its world. Complementing these elements is the evocative music by Tubby, which adds emotional depth and elevates the cinematic experience.

Unlike films that offer clear resolutions, “The Prayer” intentionally leaves its message open-ended. It doesn’t claim that prayer changes circumstances, but rather suggests that it transforms the mind, replacing fear with strength.

Hyderabad, 4th February 2025: Odisha Tourism’s campaign to boost inbound and domestic tourism began today with a roadshow in Hyderabad. The event, organised in association with FICCI, witnessed 40+ travel operators and other tourism stakeholders from Hyderabad engaged in a series of B2B interactions.

Odisha is actively promoting its tourism sector within domestic markets by showcasing its diverse attractions, including cultural heritage monuments, waterfalls, wildlife, local cuisine, hills, and Buddhist circuits. This effort is further enhanced by the popular Eco Retreat Odisha, a three-month glamping festival that has gained widespread recognition. The roadshow, held at Taj Krishna, Hyderabad, was marked by a series of informative sessions and interactive engagements with travel operators and tourism stakeholders from Hyderabad.

Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister Smt. Pravati Parida graced the roadshow and said, “Our unwavering commitment fosters a pro-investment environment, providing robust support for businesses. Backed by unmatched destinations and serene landscapes, opportunities across diverse tourism sub sectors, Odisha presents a golden opportunity for investors to build, grow, and thrive in one of India’s most promising tourism markets.”

She emphasized Odisha’s growing importance on the tourism map of India. Her address underscored the state government’s commitment to enhancing the tourism sector and creating an inviting environment for tourists and investors alike.

Commissioner-cum-Secretary Tourism Shri Balwant Singh highlighted the State’s extensive tourism potential and efforts to make Odisha a key destination for domestic travellers. Deliberating on the excellent road network Odisha has that connects with neighbouring States, he highlighted Odisha’s diverse tourist destinations emphasizing on the state’s potential as a premier destination for both domestic and international travellers. His presentation focused on opportunities for investors and tourism stakeholders, outlining the state’s commitment to creating a seamless environment for collaboration and growth in the sector, with a special focus on strategic investments and infrastructure development.

Shri Lokesh Kumar, Head, PMU Odisha Tourism, delivered the welcome address, inviting everyone to explore Odisha first-hand. He emphasised that the government is aiming to make the experience as smooth as possible, so that all involved parties like DTOs, DMCs and investors can maximize their potential and contribute to the growth of the sector.

The event also included a series of Interactive Q&A sessions with the stakeholders, where travel operators, tour agencies, and other tourism-related businesses from Hyderabad engaged in meaningful discussions with the Odisha Tourism delegation. These sessions facilitated valuable Business-to-Business (B2B) interactions, which are expected to strengthen ties between Odisha and Hyderabad’s travel industry. One of the major highlights of the session was the proposal for Odisha’s inclusion in prominent Tourism Plazas, which would enhance the visibility and accessibility of the state’s rich tourism offerings. Another important discussion centred around the promotion of wellness tourism in Odisha. With the increasing global interest in wellness and holistic travel experiences, the stakeholders suggested several ideas for leveraging Odisha’s natural beauty, serene landscapes, and traditional wellness practices to establish the state as a top wellness destination.

Later in the day, the Odisha Tourism delegation held a meeting with 12+ potential investors (B2G meetings) from the travel and tourism fraternity to discuss opportunities for investment in the state’s burgeoning tourism infrastructure.

Odisha Tourism delegation, led by Smt. Pravati Parida, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister Odisha also met Mr. Rohit Matta, Director Sensation Infracom Pvt. Ltd, Chairman & MD (Formula 4) Mr Akhilesh Reddy N. During the discussion, talks were initiated to explore the development of hotels, resorts, concert-led infrastructure in Odisha in collaboration with the Department of Tourism. The proposed partnerships shall aim to enhance the state’s hospitality infrastructure, offering a broader range of accommodation options for both domestic and international tourists.