All posts by Sujata Achary

Delhi, February 2025: The electrifying 2nd edition of Drift N Drunch at Formula Karting, Noida, on the 8th of February, raised the bar for thrilling entertainment, bringing an even greater rush of excitement to motorsport fans and guests. Drift N Drunch is a celebration of live food stations, drinks, a lively DJ, and exciting music, and this year, to accelerate the experience, a karting championship was added. Winners of the thrilling race walked away with exciting prizes. The audience also became part of the action through the Predict & Win game, making the experience even more immersive as they enjoyed the high-energy races.
Priyanka Jain, co-founder of Snow World Entertainment, Formula Karting, said, “Drift N Drunch has elevated the go-karting experience to great heights. The overwhelming response from our guests fuels our vision to push boundaries in motorsport entertainment. The addition of competitive kart racing this year brought an unparalleled thrill, making the event a true celebration of speed, skill, and fun.”

The highlight of the weekend was undoubtedly the high-speed karting championship, where winners Tiger Yadav, Devesh Rathore, Harsh Verma walked away with exciting prizes from top brands. The thrilling showdowns ignited the spirit of competition and camaraderie, as roaring engines, sharp turns, and picture-perfect moments kept audiences on the edge of their seats. Adding to the excitement, the event featured an electrifying DJ set, energetic cheerleaders, and a spread of delicious food and drinks, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The interactive fun games further ensured an engaging and immersive experience, making it a weekend to remember.

Beyond the track the entire event was a celebration of fun, speed, and great company, leaving everyone eager for the next edition. The beats of a high-energy DJ set created an infectious party atmosphere, while cheerleaders amplified the excitement with their dynamic performances. Guests indulged in an exquisite spread of gourmet delights and signature cocktails, seamlessly blending brunch with drinks to create the perfect “Drunch” experience. With an electric vibe and a stellar lineup of entertainment, Drift & Drunch 2.0 was an ultimate adrenaline rush combined with indulgence, leaving guests already anticipating its next edition.

Chennai: What happens when home renovation meets divine intervention? Ceramics Major, SOMANY Ceramics answers this in its latest Tamil TVC, featuring none other than Gomathi Priya and Vetri Vasanth, the much-loved pair from Siragadikka Aasai. With this light-hearted and entertaining vignette, SOMANY strengthens its brand presence in Tamil Nadu, tapping into the local charm and star power of these actors.

Conceptualized and executed by Madison Loop, the agency that worked on the TVC – it brings in a touch of humor and a whole lot of chemistry, with Meena (Gomathi Priya) playing the role of a ‘divine guide’, quite literally — leading Muthu (Vetri Vasanth) towards a stress-free, stylish home transformation. While Muthu seems, a bit lost in the process initially, Meena (channeling her wisdom) makes it clear that with SOMANY’s wide range of Tiles and Bathware, upgrading a home is simple, and hassle-free but filled with elegant choices. The TVC shows the pair shopping for tiles (Coverstone range), and Bathware (Somany French Collection) to revamp their home.

Talking about the campaign, Mr. Anshuman Chakravarty, Head of Marketing & Communications at SOMANY Ceramics, shared his excitement, stating, ” Tamil Nadu is a key market for us, and we wanted to create a campaign that resonates locally, bringing a lively and joyful experience. We have significantly expanded our footprint in Tamil Nadu by adding numerous showrooms and franchised outlets. We’re confident that this TVC will strike a chord with homeowners looking for stylish, durable, and hassle-free solutions.”

As shown in the TVC, Somany Coverstone brings the raw beauty of natural stone into contemporary design, featuring stylish yet highly durable slabs that offer seamless integration for both interior and exterior applications. The French Collection by SOMANY Bathware exudes European elegance, offering a range of sophisticated tiles that blend timeless aesthetics with modern durability, perfect for creating luxurious spaces. With its playful narrative and charming lead duo, SOMANY’s latest TVC is all set to win hearts across Tamil Nadu.

New Delhi, February 10, 2025: RR Kabel, the leading Wires and Cables & consumer electricals company in India, has signed a multi-year partnership agreement as a principal partner of THE Kolkata Knight Riders. This strategic partnership is set to amplify RR Kabel’s brand presence, particularly in Eastern India. Returning for a second collaboration with KKR after its initial association in 2021, the brand reaffirms its commitment to connecting with cricket fans and strengthening its market footprint.

RR Kabel’s branding will be featured on the ‘Right Chest’ of all KKR team kits during the season. This collaboration offers RR Kabel an opportunity to tap into the vast viewership, boosting brand recognition and fostering deeper engagement with a wide-ranging audience. The partnership with KKR underscores the powerful synergy between sports and industry leaders, creating a dynamic platform to connect with consumers and elevate brand visibility on a grand scale.

Commenting on the association, Mrs. Kirti Kabra, Director, RR Global, expressed, “The tournament is where energy, passion, and performance come alive, making it the perfect stage for RR Kabel. Kolkata Knight Riders felt like the right fit because their resilience, ambition, and pursuit of excellence align with who we are. Cricket brings people together like nothing else, and as a brand, we have always believed in growth, progress, and pushing boundaries. This partnership isn’t just about visibility, it’s about being part of something that sparks excitement and unites the nation.”

Adding his thoughts, Mr. Venky Mysore, CEO of Kolkata Knight Riders, said, “We are delighted to welcome RR Kabel back as a partner for IPL 2025. As a globally recognized brand, their continued association with KKR reflects the strong synergy between our values and vision. We look forward to strengthening this partnership further and creating even greater impact together.”

The three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are gearing up for another exciting season, ready to showcase their prowess on the field and entertain millions of fans across the globe. This multi-year partnership between RR Kabel and KKR marks the beginning of an exciting journey that promises to deliver memorable moments both on and off the field.

Mumbai, 10 February 2025: They say that you don’t find love, it finds you, and this Valentine’s Week, Disney+ Hotstar brings you Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story, a timeless tale of unabashed passion, budding romance, and heartfelt moments.

Set against the backdrop of Cambridge, the premise follows the beautiful journey of Bobby (Kaveri Kapur) and Rishi (Vardhan Puri) laced with unanswered questions, unhinged complications, and opposing schools of thought but bounded by serendipity and love. The movie is a perfect ode to young love with themes such as second chances and musical extravaganza at its core.

Prepare to be swept away by a story filled with love, longing, and moments of insightful realization, all wrapped up with a daily dose of laughter shared with those you hold dear. Helmed by the visionary Kunal Kohli and produced by Jyoti Deshpande, under Jio Studios and Mohaan Nadaar from The Production Head Quarters, this enchanting narrative stars Vardhaan Puri and Kaveri Kapur in pivotal roles.

Expressing his excitement director Kunal Kohli says, “I am over the moon to present Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story. I have always wanted to create a love story that resonates with today’s generation and puts light upon their dilemmas and issues. Being a person who believes in true love finding your way, we as a team have come together to bring a piece of art that the viewers can resonate with. The infectious energy of Vardhaan and Kaveri brought life to our story. We also feel truly surreal to witness our body of work being presented to a larger audience with the help of an OTT giant like Disney+ Hotstar as we expect to reach a wider set of audience”

Vardhan Puri, who portrays the character of Rishi shares, “I have always been an ardent admirer of Kunal sir’s films, and have always harbored the desire to collaborate with him. I am glad that it got paid off in Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story. I remember having watched Hum Tum six times during its release and the film continues to fascinate me, which shows how relevant and eternal his direction and vision are. I feel extremely privileged and fortunate to be a part of such a fun yet insightful movie which taught me so much about the power of love and choices. To share the screen with Kaveri who is true to her craft and is willing to put in the extra hours is uplifting as an actor. I hope that our movie resonates with the viewers and reaches them in the comfort of their homes through Disney+ Hotstar.”

Kaveri Kapur who essays the role of Bobby added, “Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story is a celebration of serendipity and the idea that love, when meant to be, finds its way back to you. Bobby is a unique character wrapped in her dilemmas and thoughts, making it an interesting yet challenging character to play. Its only after undergoing many rounds of workshops to dissect her character did she immerse herself fully into the role. Working alongside a director who gives you a free hand and is there at every step to guide you is truly liberating for a newcomer. I am beyond thrilled and excited for the world to see our work on screen and I can barely wait for 11th February to hear what the audience has to say.”

Mark your calendars for 11th February 2025, and join us on Disney+ Hotstar to experience this extraordinary love story with Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story.

Chennai, February 10, 2025. Ignitho Technologies Inc., a leading AI-driven digital engineering company, has announced a major expansion of its India AI Center in Chennai. The new expanded AI facility at Elcot SEZ, at Sholinganallur in Chennai, was inaugurated by Dr. Palanivel Thiyagarajan, Hon. Minister of Information Technology and Digital Services, Tamil Nadu.

Ignitho plans to grow its team to 1,000, focused on AI capabilities, over the next two years. This expansion is part of Ignitho’s strategic growth plan, and the new center will serve as a hub for developing and deploying more AI Agents, leveraging advanced technologies such as LLMs, Machine Learning, and Gen AI.

This expansion underscores Ignitho’s commitment to driving innovation and delivering state-of-the-art Agentic AI solutions to its clients. With an initial capacity of 300, the new office will also function as the AI capability center for Nuivio Ventures Inc., the parent company of Ignitho. Enabling Nuivio to support its portfolio of AI product companies, including Piqual Inc. and Talentou Inc., as well as other AI startups in the pipeline.

Joseph Olassa, CEO of Nuivio Ventures, commented: “This expansion marks a significant milestone for our portfolio company, Ignitho. By doubling our office space and increasing our team size, we are positioning ourselves to better serve our clients and push the boundaries of AI-driven engineering services.”

Roney Soloman, Chief Commercial Officer who is set to take the interim CEO role of Ignitho, added “Our new facility will be a center of excellence for AI innovation, fostering an environment where talent can thrive and breakthrough ideas can flourish.”

Ashin Antony, Chief Technology Officer, added: “We are thrilled to expand our presence in Chennai as we plan to grow our size to 1000 employees in the next 2 years. Chennai is emerging as one of India’s hottest tech hubs for a deep and broad set of technology skills. We look forward to welcoming new talent from colleges in and around Chennai to join us in our journey of transforming the AI landscape.”

IIT Roorkee, 10, 02 2025: Scientists at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) have uncovered a crucial regulatory mechanism in Acinetobacter baumannii, a highly drug-resistant superbug responsible for life-threatening infections. Their study, published in mBio, the prestigious journal of the American Society for Microbiology (ASM), reveals how the pathogen controls its attack and defense systems, paving the way for new treatment strategies.

Acinetobacter baumannii is notorious for its ability to resist multiple antibiotics, making it a serious threat in healthcare settings. It causes severe hospital-acquired infections, including pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and urinary tract infections. A major survival tool of this superbug is the Type 6 Secretion System (T6SS) – a bacterial “weapon” used to attack competing microbes. However, how A. baumannii regulates T6SS while maintaining antibiotic resistance has remained unclear until now.

The research team, led by Prof. Ranjana Pathania, discovered that A. baumannii switches T6SS on or off based on environmental conditions. A small RNA molecule, AbsR28, plays a key role in this regulation, influenced by manganese (Mn²+) levels. When Mn²+ levels are high, AbsR28 binds to an essential gene (tssM) required for T6SS function, leading to its degradation. This prevents the activation of T6SS and enables A. baumannii to retain plasmid pAB3, which carries multiple antibiotic-resistance genes.

“We found that when A. baumannii activates T6SS, it becomes more vulnerable to antibiotics and oxidative stress. So, the bacteria must carefully regulate this system to survive in different conditions,” said Prof. Pathania. “Our discovery sheds light on how this pathogen adapts during infections, helping it evade both antibiotics and the immune system.”

By targeting AbsR28, scientists may be able to disrupt the superbug’s regulatory system, making it more susceptible to antibiotics without directly attacking resistance genes. This discovery opens new avenues for precision medicine and novel drug development against multidrug-resistant infections.

The research team includes Somok Bhowmik, Avik Pathak, Shivam Pandey, Kuldip Devnath, Abhiroop Sett, Nishant Jyoti, Timsy Bhando, Jawed Akhter, Saurabh Chugh, Dr. Ramandeep Singh, and Tarun Kumar Sharma. Their pioneering work reinforces IIT Roorkee’s leadership in cutting-edge biomedical research.

Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, Director, of IIT Roorkee, said, “At IIT Roorkee, we are committed to advancing scientific research that addresses global health challenges. This breakthrough in understanding Acinetobacter baumannii’s defense mechanism is a testament to the high-impact work being carried out by our researchers. Such discoveries pave the way for innovative solutions in tackling antibiotic resistance and improving healthcare outcomes.”

Chennai, Tamil Nadu India- 10 Feb 2025- If you’ve ever wished for a cinema-like experience without the hassle of mounting a projector far from your screen, Zebronics has just dropped the ultimate solution. Introducing the Zeb-Pixa Play Pro 500, an Ultra Short Throw (UST) projector from a homegrown brand. This powerhouse is here to redefine how we experience big-screen entertainment at home.

A true big-screen experience in just a small space—The Zeb – Pixa Play Pro 500 can project a massive 228cm screen size from as close as 40cm away! With an impressive 12500 lumens brightness and Full HD 1080p native resolution, it delivers crystal-clear visuals with rich, vibrant colors. Say goodbye to cluttered setups and mounting hassles—this UST projector transforms even compact spaces into a cinematic experience.

But it’s not just about the visuals. Zebronics packed this projector with multi-connectivity options, including BT v5.0, dual USB, and HDMI&AUX output, so you can hook up everything from your gaming console to your streaming device with ease. Additionally, Miracast and iOS Screen Casting ensure smooth wireless mirroring, eliminating the need for extra cables.

Electronic Focus via Remote – Adjust focus effortlessly from your couch

Air Mouse – Navigate like a pro with intuitive controls

Quad-Core Processor – Ensuring smooth performance, even for heavy tasks like gaming with Android 9 and a 2GB RAM

Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz & 5GHz) – Lag-free streaming and connectivity

App Support – Access your favorite apps directly

20,000-hour LED lamp life – Built to last for years

Built-in Powerful Speakers – A complete audiovisual experience

The Zeb-Pixa Play Pro 500 projector is designed for movie buffs, gamers, and anyone who wants to bring the big screen home. The Zeb-Pixa Play Pro 500 is now available at Amazon and Flipkart at an introductory price.

Speaking on the launch, Co-Founder & Director – Mr. Pradeep Doshi stated – “At Zebronics, we’ve always believed that world-class technology shouldn’t be a privilege—it should be for everyone& that led us to launch the Zeb-Pixa Play Pro 500 and thereby as India’s first homegrown brand to introduce a UST projector, we are elevating Home Entertainment to new heights. Imagine pairing this with our powerful Zebronics Soundbars—a seamless home theatre experience that brings immersive sound and stunning visuals together effortlessly. And this is just the beginning! We’re committed to bringing more innovations that deliver Premium for Masses, making high-end tech accessible without compromise. With every launch, we’re raising the bar, setting new standards, and staying Always Ahead.”

By, Dr. Smrithi D Nayak, Consultant – Obstetrics &Gynaecology, Aster RV Hospital

Winter in India introduces a specific set of issues and opportunities for those who want to start or expand their families. Here’s how the cold time of the year may play with fertility, along with some tips to make the best of it:

1. Improved Fertility: Hormones in action during Winters
There are changes in hormones that happen normally at this time. Researchers have found that during the winter, levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) are made at a greater rate, thus bringing quality to ovulation and sperm. Most men notice a peak in testosterone during winter and women notice regularity of their cycles, increasing their chances of conceiving.

Pro Tip: Keep a close eye on ovulation during this time and have intercourse during your fertile window for maximum success.

2. Improved Sperm Quality in Men
The cooler temperatures are more favorable to sperm production and quality. Heat can damage sperm, but winter’s cooler climate maintains an ideal environment, thus boosting sperm count and motility.

Pro Tip: Advise your partner to avoid overly tight clothing and hot baths to maintain optimum sperm health throughout winter.

3. Seasonal Diet Boosts Fertility
Winter has plenty of fertility-enhancing foods, such as green leafy vegetables (spinach, fenugreek), fresh citrus fruits (oranges, guava), and nuts. These are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals needed to maintain the reproductive system. Foods like sesame seeds and jaggery are also taken as natural fertility enhancers in Indian traditional diets.

Pro Tip: Eat seasonal food in your everyday diet to boost your reproductive health and keep your hormones in check.

4. Less Stress and Improved Sleep
Winter’s longer nights tend to promote improved sleep, which is necessary for the balancing of hormones. Better quality of sleep would enhance the conditions for ovulation and sperm production, whereas decreased stress improves overall fertility.

Pro Tip: Establish a bedtime routine, enjoy warm beverages like herbal tea, and keep your bedroom cozy to maximize the benefits of winter’s restful nights.

5. Chances of Seasonal Diseases and Weight gain
On the other hand, cold weather may have the impact of increasing the vulnerability of acquiring colds and flu, and might thus weaken the body for some time, along with infertility. Also, minimal movement, calorie-rich foods are the factors that lead to gaining weight, which impacts hormone levels.

Pro Tip: Light exercises like yoga or walking, maintain healthy weight, and keep in your diet immunity-boosting foods like turmeric milk and ginger tea.

Final Thoughts for Couples Trying to Conceive
Winter is indeed the perfect time to focus on one’s reproductive health. But the right approach—healthy eating, stress management, and leveraging nature’s hormonal benefits—can definitely make the most of it. Stay warm, stay hopeful, and remember that this is a journey unique to each couple.

Dr. Sandhya Rani, Sr. Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aster Women & Children Hospital, Bengaluru

Increased reports of period pain have been noticed in recent times. As a young woman, it’s essential to take care of one’s reproductive health. Many complications during this age can affect your entire well-being, from irregular periods to hormonal imbalances and risks of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Keeping up with common reproductive health problems and learning how to tackle them is imperative for a healthy future.

So, here is what every young woman should know about reproductive health, especially navigating common health concerns.

1.  Irregular Periods – Irregular cycles may be a sign of hormonal imbalances or conditions like PCOS. Track your periods and consult a gynaecologist if they are consistently irregular, heavy or painful. Early intervention can help regulate your cycle.
2.  Severe Pain – Severe period pain is not normal. It may be a sign of endometriosis or fibroids. If severe pain interferes with your daily life, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Complications can be avoided and one’s daily life can be improved simply by recognising and treating these signs early.
3.  Infections and STIs – Most infections and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be prevented. Hence practice safe intercourse, take regular screening tests and maintain good hygiene to protect your health. Pelvic inflammatory disease is one of the most common consequences of untreated infections leading to severe issues.
4.  Fertility Awareness – PCOS or pelvic infections can cause fertility issues. Consult a doctor if you have any concerns or are planning for the future. Regular check-ups can result in early identification of any issues and help doctors to provide specific solutions.
5.  Hormonal Imbalances – Mood swings, acne or changes in a person’s body could be symptoms of hormonal issues. Consult a gynaecologist about persistent symptoms to prevent long-term effects. A well-balanced lifestyle often helps to manage these imbalances.
6.  Contraception Options – Understand and select the appropriate contraceptive that suits your needs. Discussion with your gynaecologist will help you choose the right contraception based on your health and lifestyle. Proper education and information on the different contraceptive options reduce risk and promote safer choices.

Reproductive health isn’t only about disease management, it’s about taking control of one’s health, which involves preventing potential problems and seeking appropriate timely treatment when needed. Staying aware of conditions like irregular periods, hormonal imbalances and sexually transmitted infections can improve your overall health. Maintaining proper reproductive health along with early diagnosis and treatment can prevent bigger problems while contributing to a satisfied life without complications.

Gurugram, 10th Feb 2025: SAMHI Hotels Limited is proud to announce its collaboration with the Indian School of Hospitality, a renowned institution specializing in management and leadership development, to introduce an exclusive Management Development Programme for senior leaders. This initiative aims to foster innovation, strategic thinking, and leadership excellence within the hospitality sector.

The program launched on 3rd February 2025, is tailored for senior executives at the various hotels under the umbrella of SAMHI Hotels Limited to equip them with cutting-edge skills in leadership, operational finance, and business strategy. Participants will engage in a curriculum designed by the Indian School of Hospitality, known for its expertise in Hospitality Management, Finance, Leadership, and Strategy.
The program has been designed and contextualized to the needs of hospitality leaders of today and would include experiential workshops, case studies, mentorship, and hands-on action learning projects, ensuring participants gain practical insights and tools to address the challenges of a dynamic global market.

“We are very excited to partner with the Indian School of Hospitality to create a bespoke program for emerging leaders across our hotel portfolio,” said Ashish Jakhanwala, Chairman, MD & CEO of SAMHI Hotels. “As we invest capital to grow our hotel portfolio, we also remain committed to investing in developing talent. What makes this unique is that the program is available to leaders across different brands that our hotels operate under and therefore the cohort itself brings phenomenal experience to the classroom”

Indian School of Hospitality is delighted to partner with SAMHI Hotels Limited to deliver this bespoke leadership program,” said Mr Dilip Puri, Founder and Executive Chairman, of Indian School of Hospitality. “Our goal is to empower leaders with the knowledge and skills to drive organizational success and adapt to the evolving demands of the hospitality sector.”

The partnership underscores a shared commitment to leadership excellence, innovation, and continuous learning. The first cohort will consist of 27 participants and will commence on 3rd February at the Indian School of Hospitality.