Archives June 2025

Bodh Gaya, June 21, 2025: On the occasion of International Yoga Day, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bodh Gaya organized a special press conference at the Director’s Office, reaffirming its commitment to holistic well-being and mindful leadership.

The event was graced by Dr. Vinita Sahay, Director of IIM Bodh Gaya, and Prof. Kameshwar Nath Singh, Vice Chancellor of the Central University of South Bihar (CUSB), whose presence added inspiration and meaning to the day’s celebrations.

Addressing the media, both dignitaries emphasized the growing significance of integrating yoga and mindfulness into academic and professional spaces, especially in a post-pandemic world where mental and physical health have taken center stage.

Following the press interaction, a dedicated yoga and meditation session was held on campus, where Dr. Sahay, Prof. Singh, faculty members, and staff of IIM Bodh Gaya actively participated. The session reflected the spirit of Yoga Day, celebrating inner harmony, self-awareness, and a healthy lifestyle.

IIM Bodh Gaya continues to nurture not just academic excellence but also the overall wellness of its community, aligning with the values that yoga represents: discipline, balance, and unity of mind and body.

Dadri, Noida 21th June 2025: In a major step toward building a future-ready green workforce, Avaada Group, a leader in India’s clean energy transition, in collaboration with the Skill Council for Green Jobs (SCGJ), inaugurated a Centre of Excellence (CoE) at Avaada’s Giga Factory in Dadri. This initiative marks the start of a larger national roadmap to skill India’s workforce for a green hydrogen economy, with a specialized training program to be rolled out at the same site in the coming weeks.

Inaugurated by Ritu Patwari Director Avaada Foundation and Arpit Sharma CEO, SCGJ, The Centre of Excellence will serve as a premier hub for high-quality, industry-aligned training, capacity building, and hands-on skilling in clean energy technologies—including solar, battery storage, and green hydrogen. It aligns with key national missions like the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) and Skill India, aimed at creating employment and developing indigenous capability across India’s energy transition landscape.

As part of this initiative, Avaada will launch a specialized Green Hydrogen Training Program for supervisors and technicians. The program will be co-certified under the TISA : Training in Innovative Solar Applications

Mr. Vineet Mittal, Chairperson, Avaada Group, said: “India’s green future rests on more than just ambitious targets—it rests on people. At Avaada, we believe it is our responsibility not only to produce clean energy but also to empower the people who will drive this transformation. This Centre of Excellence, in collaboration with SCGJ, is a step toward building that bridge—from aspiration to execution. The upcoming green hydrogen training program reflects our commitment to aligning with national priorities while bringing global best practices to Indian soil.”

Mr. Arpit Sharma CEO , Skill Council for Green Jobs, added: “We are excited to partner with Avaada to roll out what could become a national benchmark in clean energy skilling. This Centre of Excellence and the upcoming hydrogen training program reflect the kind of innovation and collaboration India needs as we move toward becoming a global leader in the green economy. We are confident that this platform will serve as a catalyst for broader national-level initiatives under the NGHM framework. SCGJ and Avaada has taken a leap forward in the Green Hydrogen Domain, supported by the Hon’ble PM vision to create and export Green Hydrogen. 6,00,000 Manpower is required to be trained and deployed in the GH2 sector and we are well equipped to cater to that manpower in India and abroad”

The collaboration will also include the submission of a joint proposal to the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), seeking alignment with national skilling priorities under the NGHM.

Through this Centre, Avaada is building more than skills—it is building a national capability. With its integrated approach to clean energy, from solar panel manufacturing and green hydrogen production to community-based development, Avaada continues to lead by example.

Hyderabad, 21th June 2025 – In a moment that blended wellness with luxury hospitality, Ridhira Group successfully hosted an exclusive celebration of International Yoga Day at the serene Ridhira Retreat, Gandipet, bringing together wellness enthusiasts, and special guests for a soulful afternoon of mindfulness and connection.

The event aligned with this year’s official International Yoga Day theme — “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, as announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasizing the role of yoga in sustainability and global well-being. The retreat echoed this sentiment, reinforcing the connection between personal wellness and planetary harmony.

The event featured a rejuvenating Soulful Yoga & Spa session conducted by Advanced Yoga Teacher, Vikas Shenoy offering guests a deeply immersive and calming experience. Participants engaged in mindful movement and breathwork amidst the natural surroundings of the retreat. Guests arrived in comfortable yoga attire, with mats provided by the organizers to ensure a seamless experience. The theme of the event “Breathe | Stretch | Reconnect” resonated across the retreat — from yoga mats arranged in harmony to the thoughtfully curated interactions between participants.

Adding to the holistic experience, guests engaged in one-on-one sessions with Health & Wellness Coach, Aamani Reddy, who offered practical wellness guidance through personalized nutrition coaching. Guests also indulged in foot reflexology and relaxing massages by Ode Spa, creating a sanctuary of rejuvenation.

An immersive Sound Healing session conducted by renowned Sound Healer Kaavya Bhagchandani introduced participants to the deep therapeutic power of sonic vibrations. Using instruments like singing bowls and gongs, Kaavya guided the group through a meditative journey aimed at emotional release, inner harmony, and deep relaxation.

The retreat ambiance was elevated by a captivating live three-piece instrumental performance featuring the sitar, santoor, and tabla—blending traditional Indian music with the tranquil setting of Gandipet. Following the sessions, participants savored a scrumptious yet healthy high tea, thoughtfully curated to nourish both body and soul.

Reflecting on the occasion, Ritesh Mastipuram, Founder of Ridhira Group shared, “Our focus is to reimagine wellness not just as an occasional escape, but as a lifestyle rooted in intentional living. This Yoga Day wasn’t just a celebration, it was a reminder — to pause, to breathe, and to reconnect deeply with ourselves. Our setting in Gandipet, close to Hyderabad yet wrapped in nature, was the perfect canvas for this experience. This is part of a larger movement. Today, we’re seeing a conscious shift toward wellness-led getaways — not just for individuals, but for professionals, influencers, and families. Ridhira is committed to creating such sanctuaries, where wellbeing is not an indulgence, but a way of life.”

The retreat reaffirmed Ridhira Group’s position as a pioneer in wellness-driven hospitality, where sustainability, personalization, and soulful luxury come together in perfect harmony. With similar experiences planned across the calendar, the Group aims to expand this wellness narrative beyond Hyderabad — building bridges between nature and modern living across India.

The experience was curated by Ridhira Group through its own verticals — Ridhira Retreat, Ode Spa Wellness and Ridhira Wellness Real Estate— each known for championing sustainable luxury and holistic wellbeing.

Noida: Ahead of the upcoming International Yoga Day, IMS Noida’s community radio station, Salaam Namaste, hosted a special session highlighting the significance of yoga in women’s health and overall well-being. During the event, women members of Sanskar Vaibhav shared insightful perspectives on how yoga serves as a powerful tool for physical, mental, and spiritual empowerment.

The “Yoga Se Nirog” session was presided over by IMS Noida’s Director General, Professor (Dr.) Vikas Dhawan. In his address, he stated that yoga is not just an exercise but a way of life. For women, it is a powerful means of self-development, health balance, and mental peace. He emphasized that yoga should be included in one’s lifestyle and made a regular part of the daily routine.

The program began with yoga instructor Renu Bala Singh, who highlighted the significance of yoga in women’s daily lives—focusing on hormonal balance, stress management, and the enhancement of immunity. She also guided the participants through simple yoga postures and breathing techniques (pranayama).

Station Head of Salaam Namaste, Barsha Chhabaria, shared that students, female faculty members, and women staff of IMS Noida actively participated in the “Yoga Se Nirog” program. All participants expressed that regular yoga practice not only improves physical fitness and immunity but also boosts mental alertness, self-confidence, and emotional balance. Furthermore, yoga plays a vital role in bringing positive energy, discipline, and inner peace to one’s life. The event encouraged the participants to adopt a healthy, balanced, and conscious lifestyle.

ATMOSPHERE CORE ANNOUNCES PROPERTY UNDER ITS BRAND “ATMOSPHERE HOTELS & RESORTS” IN PINK CITY, JAIPUR

Jaipur, June 21, 2025 – Atmosphere Core has partnered with Harbinger Recreations LLP to unveil their popular luxury brand “Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts in Jaipur, ARYAVILLE BY ATMOSPHERE JAIPUR.

Atmosphere Core proudly announces the signing of ARYAVILLE BY ATMOSPHERE JAIPUR, in partnership with Harbinger Recreations LLP. This milestone further cements the brand’s presence in the culturally rich state of Rajasthan, under its acclaimed “Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts” umbrella.

Following the successful debut of its first Jaipur project under THE OZEN COLLECTION, this prestigious upcoming resort is set to open in Q1 2028, just an hour’s drive from Jaipur International Airport. Nestled in proximity to the city’s historic centre, ARYAVILLE BY ATMOSPHERE promises an immersive and indulgent Rajasthani experience.

“This landmark signing underscores our commitment to expanding across India and South Asia, aligning with our strategic objective to sign 25 properties by 2025. Conceptually, ARYAVILLE BY ATMOSPHERE will cater to both domestic and international leisure travellers, corporate retreats, and destination weddings”, stated Mr. Salil Panigrahi is Managing Director of Atmosphere Core. 

Operating under the “BY ATMOSPHERE” sub-brand, the resort will feature 244 elegant accommodations, including one-bedroom cottages and spacious three-bedroom villas with private plunge pools. Each unit is thoughtfully designed to showcase stunning views of Jaipur’s vibrant skyline and the Aravalli hills beyond. 

The Villas and cottages of AryaVille are an intimate collection of individual luxury accommodations nestled in the majestic Aravali hills. The villas and cottages are designed to provide peace and tranquility for the guests who believe in living close to nature. The Eco-Resort at AryaVille is the harbinger of recreation & hospitality which utilizes all go green concepts of nature and is completely self-sustainable

ARYAVILLE BY ATMOSPHERE JAIPUR will be a culinary destination. Guests can indulge in an expansive all-day dining venue with alfresco seating, specialty restaurants celebrating the flavours of Rajasthan and North India, an artisan bakery, café, lounge, and a vibrant bar—all curated to cater to the most refined palates.

The wellness offerings will be led by the award-winning ELE|NA Spa & Wellness, providing a tranquil haven amidst the picturesque Aravallis—ideal for rejuvenation and self-care.  Designed for both individual travellers and groups, the property will feature versatile indoor event venues, sprawling lawns, and fully equipped boardrooms, making it a top choice for curated events, corporate conferences, and unforgettable weddings.

Jaipur, often called the ‘Pink City,’ evokes images of regal queens, majestic forts and has long been celebrated for its colourful heritage. Interestingly, in the late 1800s, shades of pink symbolised hospitality. In 1876, Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh painted the entire city in warm pink tones to warmly welcome Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. This act was not just about aesthetics; it was a strategic move to foster strong ties with the British Royal Family. Additionally, the Maharaja built the city’s stunning Albert Hall as a tribute to the regal couple. 

Reflecting on the new venture, Mr. Souvagya Mohapatra, regional Managing Director of Atmosphere Core for India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan, expressed his enthusiasm about their latest project. “Rajasthan has become a focal point for us as we aim to establish exceptional luxury hotels and resorts. Jaipur, being the iconic heritage city of India, is rapidly becoming a key tourism hub on a global scale. Its stunning landscapes, rich cultural history, and significant location have always motivated our efforts. I’m thrilled to announce our second property in this prestigious region and am confident that our collaborative endeavours will turn this property into a sought-after destination.”

Mr. Alop Mehta, Partner at Harbinger Recreation LLP, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to join forces with Atmosphere Core in transforming this property into a premier luxury resort. Their esteemed commitment to exceptional quality and service aligns seamlessly with our vision. This partnership represents a strategic move into the Rajasthan market and is destined to establish a new standard in luxury hospitality.”

Positioned strategically with outstanding amenities and a dedication to providing an unparalleled guest experience, ARYAVILLE BY ATMOSPHERE JAIPUR is poised to become a landmark destination in the vibrant city of Jaipur.

Mumbai, 20th June: It’s here. DocuBay’s powerful new original, Gateway of Europe – The Migrant Crisis, is now live and streaming globally. Released on World Refugee Day on June 20, this gripping documentary pulls viewers straight into the heart of one of today’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. With urgent storytelling and unforgettable real-life accounts, the film is a must-watch for anyone seeking to understand the human cost of migration in Europe.

Filmed on the frontline island of Lampedusa, Gateway of Europe offers a raw, immersive lens into the journey of migrants risking everything for safety, and the communities caught in the tide of crisis. Through unfiltered visuals and deeply personal stories, it lays bare the choices, resilience, and realities that headlines often miss.

Streaming now only on DocuBay, Gateway of Europe is more than a documentary; it’s a powerful reminder of our shared humanity in turbulent times.

“Over 110 million people are currently displaced worldwide, a staggering reminder of the global migration crisis. Gateway of Europe brings this reality home by showing us the people behind the numbers. At IN10 Media Network, we believe in storytelling that awakens empathy and compels change. This film is not just timely; it’s necessary,” shared Aditya Pitte, Managing Director at IN10 Media Network.

“Behind every data point lies a family torn apart, a child who crossed an ocean, a parent making the impossible choice to leave home. With Gateway of Europe, I wanted to humanise the crisis, to let the camera be a witness to both despair and resilience. These are not statistics; these are lives at the edge of survival and hope,” said Max Serio, the Director and Filmmaker

“When we speak of ‘millions displaced,’ we often forget the heartbeat behind the headline. Gateway of Europe confronts that blind spot. At DocuBay, we are committed to stories that break silos, and this film does exactly that. It transforms the migrant crisis from an abstract issue into an intimate human experience that resonates across borders,” said Samar Khan, Chief Content Officer, DocuBay.

Now streaming exclusively on DocuBay, the full feature delivers a gripping and unfiltered portrayal of the migrant crisis through powerful visuals, deeply personal narratives, and a raw urgency that captures the scale and emotional weight of this global emergency. Watch it today!

India’s First Loan & Business Expo, “Samriddhi Conclave 2025” from Aug 1-3, 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi

A first-of-its-kind loan mela-cum-business expo to help small and medium businesses get direct access to lending institutions such as banks, non-banking financial institutions, venture capitalists and private equity investors is going to take place at Bharat Mandapam from August 1^st to 3^rd, 2025.

This was announced at the Curtain Raiser to Samriddhi Conclave 2025 — India’s First Loan & Business Expo here on Wednesday. Being organised by PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), in collaboration with KKGA Par Excellence; Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT); All India Association of Industries (AIAI) and the Shivalik Green Alliance (SAGA), the initiative aims at targeting more than 60,000 MSMEs.

The expo will bring together over 200 financial institutions under one roof for ease of access of small businesses. In a win-win for borrowers as well as lenders, the expo will strive to mitigate the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in accessing collateral-free loans within the boundaries of stipulated schemes, address the issue of lack of awareness about initiatives of key lenders, help reduce delays due to paperwork and cut short the time taken in approvals.

For lending agencies this will be a unique opportunity to get access to a sizeable number of MSMEs at one place and fulfil their disbursement targets in a short period of time. Conference sessions at Samriddhi Conclave will cover a vast range of issues from challenges faced by lenders and financial vision of the Government to innovations in financing and showcasing of the role being played by technology in bridging the gap between lenders and borrowers.

Chief Guest, Ms Poonam Gupta, Spokesperson BJP Mahila Morcha and National Vice President CAIT appreciated the joint efforts of PHDCCI and KKGA to organise Loan mela for MSMEs a first-of-its-kind loan mela-cum-business expo to help small and medium businesses get direct access to lending institutions such as banks, non-banking financial institutions, etc  at Bharat Mandapam from August 1^st to 3^rd. She extended her best wishes and all support so that maximum number of MSMEs can avail the benefit of this loan Mela.

Dr. Ranjeet Mehta, CEO & Secretary General PHDCCI said that India’s economic strength lies in its MSMEs and The Loan Mela is to make finance accessible, transparent, and efficient for the engines of our economy -the MSMEs.

Dr. Prof. Rajiv Dubey, Chairman, Coordination Committee, Samriddhi Conclave 2025 & Former CMD, Canara Bank, said, “MSME’s in India form the backbone of our economy, contributing significantly to employment, exports, and GDP. However, accessing financial support remains a critical challenge. Samridhi Conclave 2025 aims to bridge this gap and this Conclave is not just an event – it’s an opportunity for growth, collaboration, and financial empowerment.”

Dr. Alkanshree Dahar, Member, Coordination Committee, Samriddhi Conclave 2025 & Founder / Managing Partner, Law Offices of India, said, “A supportive legal framework is essential for clear regulatory frameworks and businesses to grow and this Conclave promises to be a crucible for such advancements.”

Ms Shalini S Sharma, Assistant Secretary General, PHDCCI, exhorted MSMEs to come out in large numbers and make use of the opportunity being provided by Samriddhi Conclave 2025 to grow their businesses and spread Samriddhi all around themselves.

Chennai, Friday, June 20, 2025…– Sundaram Finance, one of India’s most respected financial institutions with over seven decades of exemplary customer obsession, today announced the expansion of Sundaram Wealth as a dedicated wealth management offering. This strategic initiative positions the company to better serve the sophisticated financial needs of Ultra High Net Worth Individuals, High Net Worth Individuals (HNI) and affluent families across India.

The expanded offering builds upon the company’s existing franchise in wealth management and will provide comprehensive financial solutions including strategic financial planning, portfolio allocation and risk management through enhanced capabilities.

Strategic focus on affluent market segments

Sundaram Wealth will primarily target families and individuals who require sophisticated wealth management solutions beyond traditional investment products. Rooted in Sundaram Finance’s enduring customer relationships with self-employed and entrepreneurs, this offering is designed to serve those who have created significant wealth, as well as those who are thoughtfully and steadily building toward it.

“Our expansion of Sundaram Wealth represents the natural evolution of our client relationships and our commitment to providing comprehensive financial solutions,” said Harsha Viji, Executive Vice Chairman of Sundaram Finance. “Over the decades, we have witnessed many clients progress significantly in their financial journey through disciplined investing and financial planning. This expansion allows us to serve our multigenerational relationships in addressing their increasingly complex wealth management needs with the same integrity and personalised service that has defined our customer centricity for over 70 years.”

Leveraging distribution excellence

Sundaram Wealth will leverage and expand Sundaram Direct, the company’s distribution business, which has been a cornerstone of Sundaram Finance’s financial products & services offerings for over two decades. Sundaram Direct deals with both SF Group and third-party financial products and has built a wealth and investments portfolio exceeding Rs. 7,000 crore of assets under management. This established distribution infrastructure provides Sundaram Wealth with extensive product access and proven operational capabilities to deliver differentiated wealth management solutions.

The wealth management expansion will tap into this distribution strength while simultaneously targeting new affluent clients across India’s growing wealth segments. The growth strategy will include both organic growth through existing customer relationships and targeted acquisition of new HNI and affluent clients seeking comprehensive wealth management services. The company aspires to achieve an AUM of 20,000 – 25,000 crore in the next 4 – 5 years.

“The formal expansion of Sundaram Wealth reflects our optimism about India’s march towards a middle-income economy and the country’s growing affluent population. We are keen to serve these customers, particularly the self-employed, and address their evolving financial needs in the Sundaram Way that has stood the test of time over the past over seven decades,” said Rajiv Lochan, Managing Director of Sundaram Finance. “We are uniquely positioned to serve this market through our combination of multi-generational client relationships combined with a “you first” approach to clients, comprehensive product suite, and unwavering commitment to prudent wealth management. Our goal is to be the trusted wealth partner to families and individuals who aspire to a long-term financial journey built on openness and discipline.”

Delhi, India, 20th June 2025: Coca-Cola India is all set to mark its presence at one of the country’s most iconic cultural celebrations – Ratha Yatra 2025 taking place in Puri, Odisha from 27th June to 5th July 2025. Building on its successful engagement at Maha Kumbh earlier this year, Coca-Cola will bring its refreshing beverage portfolio to the heart of the Ratha Yatra.

Through its diverse portfolio of brands including Coca-Cola, Thums Up, Sprite, Fanta, Maaza, Limca, Limca Glucocharge, Charged and Kinley, Coca-Cola India will enhance the festive fervor with wide-scale availability, immersive brand activations, and deep cultural integration. The company will also foster economic empowerment by supporting local vendors and retailers, and driving tangible social and environmental impact.

To mark the occasion, the company will be launching a special edition of Ratha Yatra-themed packaging on its packaged drinking water brand ‘Kinley,’ celebrating Odisha’s rich traditions and creating keepsakes that echo the pride of the region. Coca-Cola India will also introduce affordable pack options, making its beverages accessible to attendees during the festivities.

Visitors will experience iconic out-of-home (OOH) displays, cooler wall, and other activations across high-footfall locations along temple routes, beach stretches, markets, highway outlets, transit hubs, and local kiosks. The hydration carts along the route will create economic opportunities for local vendors and micro-entrepreneurs who offer chilled beverages to consumers during the yatra. These activations highlight Coca-Cola’s commitment to delivering a rich and enjoyable experience for attendees.

Vinay Nair, Vice President, Franchise Operations, Developing Markets, Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia, “Ratha Yatra stands as one of Odisha’s most significant cultural occasions, marked by its scale and deep community participation. At Coca-Cola India, our aim is to keep consumers refreshed and hydrated throughout the yatra by ensuring our beverages are readily available across every touchpoint. We are committed to creating meaningful experiences and social impact through multiple initiatives that raise awareness on recycling to inspire collective action.”

Anandana (The Coca-Cola India Foundation) and Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB) in partnership with Puri Municipality, District Administration (Puri), Odisha Development Management Programme (ODMP), and Y4D Foundation, have flagged off the ‘Used PET Bottle-Free Ratha Yatra 2025’ initiative to help in managing plastic waste during the festival. As part of the Maidan Saaf campaign, the effort aims to significantly reduce plastic litter with city-wide collection and public engagement, through beach cleanups, plog runs and awareness drives. The programme will deploy more than 180 trained volunteers and install 200 PET collection bins across select high-footfall areas in the city.