Archives August 2025

Five Iconic Interiors That Prove Marble Never Goes Out of Style

22nd August 2025, Kishangarh : From the luminous white domes of the Taj Mahal to the sleek, gallery-like penthouses of today, marble has always carried an aura that transcends trend. It is not simply a building material; it is permanence, poetry, and prestige carved into stone.

For centuries, civilizations have turned to marble when they wanted to create something the world would not forget. It is cool touch, soft sheen, and infinite variations have seduced emperors, architects, and artisans alike. Today, designers around the world continue to embrace marble for its ability to elevate a space — grounding it in tradition, while lending it a modern edge.

Below, five spaces from across the globe — each with its own character — prove that marble remains the language of timeless luxury.

The Eternal Muse — Taj Mahal, Agra

An eternal testament to love and craftsmanship, the Taj Mahal stands as the world’s most famous symbol of marble’s power to move the soul. While its luminous beauty has long inspired awe, today it is stones like India’s Pigus White that carry forward this legacy. Subtly shifting in tone with changing light — soft blush at dawn, radiant silver at noon, warm gold at dusk — Pigus White captures the same living, ever-changing beauty. Quarried from the heart of India, it continues a tradition that modern artisans like Tilak Marbles proudly preserve and reimagine.

The Parisian Salon — Haussmann Meets Modernity

In the heart of Paris, a restored Haussmann apartment reveals how marble can dance between centuries. The classic chevron floors meet Calacatta fireplaces, while sleek Carrara kitchen counters bring a whisper of modern minimalism. The interplay is deliberate: old-world romance anchored by the cool confidence of stone. It is the kind of restrained elegance that Tilak Marbles’ design partners often pursue — marrying heritage with contemporary ease.

The Dubai Penthouse — Sunlight in Stone

High above the marina, a penthouse wraps itself in expanses of beige and grey marble. By day, light spills across its surface like liquid gold, warming the cool undertones. By night, the polished veining reflects the glittering skyline, creating a private observatory of luxury. Sourcing such large, flawless blocks requires both precision and patience — the very qualities on which Tilak Marbles has built its reputation.

The Italian Villa — Living with Legacy

On the shores of Lake Como, a 17th-century villa wears marble the way some people wear family heirlooms: effortlessly. The grand staircases curve with inlaid stone patterns, the bathrooms echo with the soft sound of water over marble basins. Here, stone is not an accent — it is architecture itself, layered with stories. Tilak Marbles channels this philosophy when crafting custom blocks for projects meant to last for generations.

The Jaipur Residence — A Modern Ode to Craft

Closer to home, a contemporary Jaipur residence highlights Indian marble at its most refined. Floors in rich, earthy-hued Indian marble create a visual continuity from courtyard to living spaces, while a hand-finished marble wall becomes an art installation. The design respects the material’s natural character, allowing its veining to become the home’s quiet narrative.

“For us, marble is not just a material — it is a living heritage. Every block we work with carries centuries of beauty within it, and we see ourselves as its custodians for the next generation.”
Praveen Gangwal, Founder, Tilak Marbles

In the right hands, marble does not just endure — it shapes the spaces, and the lives, it touches. Across continents and centuries, it remains the ultimate marker of refinement. And at Tilak Marbles, that story continues to be written, one block at a time.

The Body Shop India Announces New Advisory Board Members for Youth Collective Council 2.0

22nd August 2025: The Body Shop, a British-born ethical beauty brand, on the occasion of National Youth Day, the brand has announced the launch of its Youth Collective Council 2.0 (YCC 2.0) advisory board, marking an important step forward in the brand’s ongoing efforts to empower young voices and foster change. Building on the achievements of YCC 1.0, this new council reinforces The Body Shop’s commitment to integrating youth perspectives into its core business decisions, particularly in the areas of sustainability, social impact, and inclusivity.

YCC 1.0 was established in 2023 with a mission to make the company’s leadership more diverse and responsive to young changemakers. During its tenure, the inaugural council recommended several impactful initiatives, including gender-inclusive hiring and management practices, authentic representation of real-life, gender-diverse individuals in brand communications, and the introduction of Braille features in stores to improve accessibility for visually impaired customers. These initiatives have already been successfully implemented in 2024-2025 across The Body Shop India, setting new benchmarks for diversity and accessibility in the industry.

Taking this success, a step further, YCC 2.0 brings together four new youth leaders who will advise on key issues such as sustainability, green innovation, mental wellbeing and social advocacy. The new members in the council are:

Aakash Ranison, aged 30, is an environmentalist, author, and the Founder of Greener Earth Foundation. He is the Civil Society Representative for Paris Peace Forum & Delegate to UN Migration for UN COP

Naman Sonpar, aged 17, is a climate activist, TEDx Speaker and the Founder of Hari Koshish. Naman leads the “Voicing the Yamuna” campaign to raise awareness about river pollution, collecting 2200+ Kgs of waste. His work centers around Youth Advocacy and community oriented Climate Action.

Anoushka Jolly, aged 16, is a mental wellbeing advocate and the Founder of Kavach App. Anoushka’s work focuses on supporting adolescent mental wellbeing. She was awarded Pradhan Mantri Bal Shakti Puraskar 2023

Dwishojoyee Banerjee, aged 20, is a green economy catalyst and the Founder of The Soft Movement. Dwishojoyee’s “Paper Bag Project” has replaced over 5 Mn plastic bags with recycled newspaper alternatives

Each member will soon be sharing recommendations that align seamlessly with The Body Shop’s core values and ethical ethos, reinforcing our collective commitment to tackling climate change, strengthening environmental advocacy, advancing public engagement, and promoting a green economy.

Rahul Shanker, CEO, Quest Retail said, “Together, through innovation, inclusivity, and action, we aim to build a fairer, greener world because India’s youth are not just inheriting the challenges, they are championing the solutions. With YCC 2.0, The Body Shop India continues to strengthen its stance as a leader in ethical, sustainable, and inclusive beauty.”

India’s youth stand at the forefront of the fight for a sustainable and just future. The Body Shop’s Youth Collective Council 2.0 continues a powerful movement that entrusts young changemakers with the responsibility and opportunity to shape the business and communities. By embracing their ideas, passion, and commitment, The Body Shop reaffirms the belief that real change comes from empowering the next generation.

Food Square joins hands with Instamart for instant delivery of gourmet and imported groceries

National, 22nd August 2025: Food Square, India’s leading luxury gourmet food destination, makes its quick commerce debut with Instamart, India’s pioneering quick commerce platform. The partnership puts thousands of premium products just 10 minutes away, bringing everyday luxury to doorsteps across Mumbai. This is the first time a luxury gourmet food retailer has joined quick commerce at scale in India. With it, rare global ingredients become instantly accessible to a new generation of consumers who expect quality and speed.

Over 4,000 Food Square products are live on Instamart, including caviar, truffle spreads, fine condiments, oils, vinegars, imported cheeses, chocolates, snacks, and baking essentials. They will be housed under a dedicated “Gourmet” tab, making it easy for customers to browse.

Instamart offers over 35,000 products, ranging from local and regional favorites to gourmet and imported selections, making it a one-stop destination for all grocery needs.

“At Instamart, we are constantly innovating to meet the evolving needs of the modern Indian household, with a focus on delivering a high-quality assortment of fresh and truly authentic groceries. Through Food Square Gourmet, we’re bringing a curated range of gourmet products straight to our customers’ doorsteps, all within minutes. This collaboration not only strengthens our commitment to speed and convenience but also ushers in a new standard for premium grocery delivery. We’re excited to make top-quality ingredients more accessible than ever to consumers in Mumbai.” – Hari Kumar G, Chief Business Officer at Instamart

 “Food Square was always imagined as a playground for the curious, a place to explore the rare, the extraordinary, the best the world has to offer. With Instamart, we’re making that playground accessible in minutes. This isn’t just a partnership, it’s a leap forward in how India discovers and experiences gourmet food.” – Mayank Gupta (Co-Founder and Managing Director, Food Square)

 “India is exploring flavour in bold, global ways. With Instamart, everyday luxury is no longer aspirational; it is instantly available. This partnership is not just about convenience, it is about shifting how we experience food.”– Lalit Jhawar (Co-Founder and CEO) Food Square products are now available on Instamart across key neighbourhoods, including Andheri, Bandra, Goregaon, Powai, Vile Parle, and Tardeo.

B30 locations continues to be inclined towards equity mutual funds : ICRA Analytics

Data from AMFI showed that 18% of the assets of the mutual fund industry came from B30 locations in July 2025. Assets from B30 locations increased from Rs 13.80 trillion in June 25 to Rs 14.20 trillion in July 25, representing increase of 3%. However, on a yearly basis the same rose by 21%. Assets from T30 locations grew 19% on a yearly basis in July 2025.

B30 location tend towards equity assets with nearly 76.55% of the assets from B30 locations invested in equity schemes and 9.18% in balanced schemes in July 2025. Close to 11.82% of the assets from B30 location are in debt-oriented schemes, while the same from T30 location accounts for 31.47%.

In July 2025, 27.45% of assets held by individual investors is from the B30 locations while only4.79% of institutional assets come from B30 locations. In July 2024, 26.76% of assets were held by individual investors from B30 locations and 4.76% of institutional assets from B30 locations. Institutional assets are concentrated in T30 locations, accounting for 95.21% of the total.

As on July 2025, approximately 26.92% of retail investors opted for direct investments, while 65.69% of retail investors came through the route of Non-Associate Distributors. Nearly 28.61% of High Net Worth Individual (HNI) assets were directly invested. Additionally, 47.77% of the mutual fund industry’s assets were invested directly and 45.88% came from Non-Associate Distributors.

Major Developments Promotes Salih Elalo to Chief Projects Officer

Dubai, UAE , 22 August 2025: Major Developments announced (xx August 2025) the promotion of Mr. Salih Elalo to Chief Projects Officer (CPO), recognizing his exceptional leadership, proven delivery track record, and expertise in shaping landmark developments across the UAE.With over two decades of experience in project development and management, Mr. Elalo has played a pivotal role in delivering high-profile residential, hospitality, mixed-use, and large-scale infrastructure projects.

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Since joining Major Developments as Projects Director in 2023, he has been instrumental in overseeing complex developments such as Manta Bay—a signature world’s first Sky Beach project in Ras Al Khaimah—ensuring they meet the highest standards of design, functionality and innovation.

Mr. Elalo’s career spans senior roles with leading developers, consultants, and government entities, where he has consistently demonstrated an ability to manage multidisciplinary teams, coordinate with global design firms, and deliver projects on time, within budget, and to exceptional quality standards.

His deep expertise covers architectural coordination, structural and infrastructure design integration, cost control, and stakeholder management, earning him a reputation as a credible and trusted leader in the industry.

Commenting on his promotion, Mr. Elalo said: “It is an honour to take on the role of Chief Projects Officer at such an exciting time for Major Developments. I look forward to building on our momentum, advancing architectural excellence, and ensuring our projects continue to set benchmarks in quality and innovation for our clients and communities.”

CEO Andrei Charapenak added: “Salih’s promotion reflects his outstanding leadership, technical depth and relentless commitment to project delivery. His strategic vision and hands-on expertise will be vital as we accelerate our development pipeline and reinforce our position as a leader in the UAE’s luxury real estate sector.”

The appointment comes as Major Developments continues to expand its footprint in prime locations, aligning with Ras Al Khaimah’s broader vision for world-class urban environments.

99 Pancakes Launches All-New Kunafa Pancakes & Kunafa Waffle Inspired by Middle Eastern Delicacies

Mumbai, August 22, 2025: 99 Pancakes, India’s leading quick-service restaurant (QSR) chain known for its innovative dessert offerings and commitment to quality, has unveiled exciting additions to its menu: Kunafa Pancakes and Kunafa Waffles, inspired by Middle-Eastern delicacies.

The Kunafa Pancakes are fluffy mini pancakes drizzled with luscious milk-choco and nutty pistachio spread, topped with delicate golden kunafa flakes to create a soft, nutty and indulgent experience in every bite.

The Kunafa Waffle is made with a crisp classic waffle topped with luscious milk-choco, a nutty pistachio spread and garnished with golden kunafa strands for a rich, crispy contrast.

Speaking about the new additions to the menu, Vikesh ShahFounder, 99 Pancakes, said, “We are committed to pushing the boundaries of desserts – merging taste, textures, and cultures. Kunafa is a Middle Eastern dessert, and by blending kunafa into our pancakes and waffles, we are offering our guests a sweet surprise that will satisfy their taste buds and is set to become a new favorite”.

The newly launched Kunafa range pairs the warmth of traditional kunafa with the twist of 99 Pancakes comforting sweetness to fit seamlessly into today’s on-the-go lifestyle while offering a unique, memorable and shareable dessert experience.

With over 80 outlets across more than 17 cities and expanding rapidly, 99 Pancakes continue to bring irresistible dessert experiences to a growing number of customers nationwide. The new additions are available at all outlets across India for dine-in & take-away and on food delivery apps – Zomato & Swiggy and on the company’s official website – 99pancakes.in.

5 Platforms for Upskilling in Data Analytics in 2025

As businesses become increasingly data-driven, the demand for skilled Data Analysts has skyrocketed across industries such as technology, finance, healthcare, and e-commerce. Whether you’re a student, a working professional pivoting into analytics, or someone seeking to advance into data-centric leadership roles, the right platform can fast-track your journey. These five platforms stand out for their curriculum quality, mentorship, hands-on training, and career outcomes in the field of Data Analytics:

NextLeap – NextLeap has expanded beyond Product Management to offer fellowship-style programs in Data Analytics, designed for early-career professionals. The platform emphasizes hands-on learning through real-world datasets, cohort-based classes, and mentorship from industry experts. With its outcome-driven structure, learners gain practical skills in SQL, Python, Excel, and visualization tools like Tableau and Power BI. Affordable pricing, placement support, and a strong peer community make NextLeap an attractive choice for those starting out in analytics careers.

Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate – Offered via Coursera, Google’s Data Analytics Professional Certificate is among the most recognized entry-level programs worldwide. It provides a solid foundation in spreadsheets, SQL, R programming, data visualization, and business problem-solving. The self-paced program includes practical projects, case studies, and portfolio-building exercises. With a globally acknowledged certificate backed by Google, it’s ideal for students and working professionals seeking an industry-recognized credential at an accessible cost.

upGrad- upGrad offers a Post Graduate Certificate in Data Analytics in collaboration with top universities such as Purdue University and IITs. The program blends academic content, case studies, and industry sessions, along with one-on-one mentorship. Covering tools like Python, SQL, and visualization dashboards, the course caters to working professionals aiming to transition into data-centric roles or upskill for career growth. With strong placement assistance and networking opportunities, upGrad is positioned as a premium option for mid-career learners.

Emeritus- Emeritus partners with leading global institutions such as MIT, Columbia, and IIMs to deliver executive-level Data Analytics programs. Designed for professionals aiming to move into leadership or strategy roles, Emeritus programs combine academic rigor with business-oriented case studies. Delivered in a hybrid model, the courses focus on advanced analytics, data-driven decision-making, and leadership in digital transformation. The strong brand credibility of partner institutions makes Emeritus particularly appealing to experienced managers and executives seeking global recognition.

Govt’s Push for Ease of Doing Business and Start-up Growth Welcomed; Clear Timelines Urged”

By Mr. Mahesh Krishnamoorthy, Managing Director, Core Integra
It is highly encouraging to see the continued focus of the Government on ease of doing business along with relaxations to encourage entrepreneurship and start-up ecosystem to flourish in India. The initiatives and incentives announced by the Government in the Budget earlier this year followed by mention in the Hon. The Prime Minister’s Independence Day speech recently is highly beneficial to MSME and Start ups. The task force for next generation reforms is a major initiative which will focus on streamlining laws and rules for ease of doing business and reduce the compliance costs along with GST reforms to reduce tax burden is certainly appreciated. While there is intent and action, it is essential to put clear timelines for the benefits roll out, implementation framework and procedures in order to get optimum advantage with speed in the current global scenario.

City Lifts India Ltd. Celebrates 40 Years of Lifting India’s Vertical Mobility

Mumbai, 22 August 2025 — City Lifts India Limited, India’s leading elevators, escalators, auto walks and car parking solutions manufacturing company, recently marked its 40th Foundation Day, commemorating four decades of delivering reliable, innovative, and safe vertical and horizontal mobility solutions across India. The Company announced its next – phase growth roadmap and campaign #LiftingTheCities during the event.

Since its inception in 1985 by a visionary entrepreneur Late Mr V. Rajagopalan with an objective to address the country’s expanding vertical and horizontal transit needs, over the last forty years, the company has grown into a trusted name with a pan-India presence and a reputation for excellence.

Built on the pillars of integritycustomer-centricity, and uncompromising quality, City Lifts India Limited has consistently upheld its founding values while adapting to evolving market demands. The company’s core mission—ensuring customer satisfaction through continuous innovation and prompt service—remains as relevant today as it was at its start. To mark this spirit, the Company launched an integrated advocacy campaign #LiftingTheCities.

Mr. Navin Rajagopalan, Director, City Lifts India Limited, remarks “Reaching our 40th Foundation Day is a proud and humbling moment, as we are successfully taking our Founder’s vision ahead. For four decades, City Lifts India has remained steadfast in delivering safe, reliable, and technologically advanced vertical mobility solutions. This achievement reflects not just our organizational strength, but the sheer mission, dedication, and trust of our entire team, partners, and customers. As we look ahead to the next phase, we remain committed to expanding our footprint across geographies and micro-markets of India, enriching customer experiences through innovation, and fostering an environment of safety, quality, and shared success.”

Highlights from Four Decades of Excellence:

  • Technology Leadership: Pioneered advanced solutions such as gearless traction systems, MRL (Machine-Room-Less) configurations, and intelligent Destination Dispatch Systems to enhance energy efficiency, passenger experience, and space optimization.
  • Safety as a Priority: Embedded comprehensive safety features in all products—from emergency brakes and backup power systems to behavior-oriented safety training for employees—reinforcing City Lift’s commitment to rider and workplace safety.
  • Quality Assurance: Leveraged premium materials, stringent in-house quality control, and industry-standard testing protocols across every stage—from procurement to installation—to elevate reliability and durability.
  • Strategic Alliances: Partnered with global technology leaders such as KOYO (China), Nidec, and Samjung Tech to integrate leading-edge elevator and parking technologies into its offerings.
  • Forward-Looking Growth Strategy: Targets significant revenue doubling and deepened market penetration via expansion into Tier II and III cities, enhanced after-sales services with AI/IoT-driven predictive maintenance, and robust employee training initiatives.

 As City Lifts India Ltd. embarks on its fifth decade, it has plans to scale up its escalators and elevators portfolios by introducing state-of-the-art, modern and hi-tech equipment with IoT capabilities. The Company is also eying mega infrastructure projects like Metro Stations, Airports, etc for its elevators and auto walks solutions. Already a trusted name across the developers’ fraternity, City Lifts India is expanding its developers’ sales network for its elevators. Mr. Rajagopalan concluded, “We are scaling new heights—expanding geographic reach, elevating customer support, embracing cutting-edge technologies and deepening workforce development. The company’s steadfast dedication to excellence positions it well to remain a leader in India’s vertical mobility industry.”

Glow through the Monsoon: Skincare That Feels Like a Hug

By Yanthungbeni Murry, Skin Care Expert, Ode Spa

The gentle fragrance of rain-soaked earth, the pitter-patter against your window, and the refreshing breeze following a scorching summer define the enchantment of monsoon season. While we may delight in the rain, our skin doesn’t always share our enthusiasm. Sudden humidity, temperature swings, and unrelenting drizzles often leave our skin feeling less than its best.

Monsoon skincare isn’t about amassing expensive products or following elaborate routines. It’s about tuning in to your skin and giving it exactly what it needs.

Keep It Clean and Gentle

The sticky air of the monsoon attracts dirt and sweat to the skin, but overwashing can strip away essential natural oils. Instead, cleanse twice daily with a mild, sulphate-free cleanser to keep your skin feeling fresh, not tight or squeaky.

Hydrate, Even When It’s Humid

Although humidity may trick you into thinking your skin doesn’t need hydration, that’s as misleading as skipping water because you’ve had coffee. Choose a lightweight, gel-based moisturizer that nourishes your skin without leaving a greasy residue.

Sunscreen Remains Essential

Yes, even on cloudy days. UV rays can cut through clouds just as easily as gossip in a family group chat. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin as you enjoy rainy day comforts indoors.

Exfoliate with Care

Moist air combined with dead skin cells can clog pores and trigger breakouts. Gently exfoliate once a week using a mild scrub or chemical exfoliant to help your skin breathe, giving it a much-needed refresh.

Makeup: Less Is More

Heavy or creamy makeup products can feel suffocating in damp weather. Opt for water-based, breathable formulas that won’t clog pores or become a monsoon mishap by midday.

Nourish From the Inside Out

Healthy skin is a reflection of overall well-being. Drink plenty of water, enjoy seasonal fruits like jamun and papaya, and ensure you get enough restful sleep.

Relax & Rejuvenate

During the monsoon, many find relaxation at Ode Spa. With its tranquil ambiance and personalized approach, Ode Spa offers deep-cleansing facials to clear impurities, hydrating treatments to restore moisture, anti-acne therapies to manage seasonal breakouts, and brightening rituals for tired, lacklustre skin. Each client’s unique skin type and needs are assessed to create a customized treatment plan, transforming every visit into a blend of luxury and genuine care.

Though the monsoon brings its own challenges, it also lends a unique softness to the world. With mindful care, your skin can mirror the season’s glow. Think of monsoon skincare not as a routine task, but as a gentle act of self-care—a way to harmonize your well-being with the soothing rhythm of the rain.