Tag Kolkata

New Delhi, September 6 2024: The Indian real estate market is currently experiencing a bull run, marked by soaring prices and escalating demand. At the same time, household incomes across the top 10 cities increased at a CAGR of 5.4%, while property prices surged at a CAGR of 9.3% (between 2020-2024). This growing gap in income and property price growth rates has weakened affordability.

Elaborating on the same, Magicbricks’ flagship report “Housing Affordability in Major Indian Cities” revealed that the Property Price to Annual Household Income Ratio (P/I Ratio) in India has increased from 6.6 in 2020 to 7.5 in 2024 (higher than the globally accepted benchmarks of 5). Based on the P/I Ratio, the report observed that Chennai (5), Ahmedabad (5), and Kolkata (5) are among the most affordable cities for residential investments in 2024, while the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (14.3) and Delhi (10.1) emerged as the least affordable.

Explaining the trends, Sudhir Pai, CEO, Magicbricks shared “Between the latter half of 2021 and 2022, residential investments were at their most affordable. During this period, the market was experiencing a resurgence, characterized by low interest rates, recovering household incomes, and modest increase in residential prices. However, homeownership sentiment has since peaked, resulting in demand significantly outpacing available supply, leading to a rapid and substantial surge in residential prices, presenting new challenges for affordable housing.”

Furthermore, the report revealed that the EMI-to-monthly income ratio in India has risen from 46% in 2020 to 61% in 2024, indicating a growing burden of EMIs on home buyers and reflecting affordability concerns nationwide, especially metros. The trend is more pronounced in MMR (116%), New Delhi (82%), Gurugram (61%) and Hyderabad (61%). In contrast, cities like Ahmedabad (41%), Chennai (41%) and Kolkata (47%) are relatively more affordable.

The report concluded that the current situation is likely to hit equilibrium conditions with market trends indicating a deceleration in price growth due to an anticipated increase in residential supply.

Shashi Tharoor releases his latest book ‘A Wonderland of Words’ in Kolkata;

unveils Prabha Khaitan Foundation’s book rack at Taj City Centre

Kolkata 5th September 2024: The mellifluous flow of words he is known for held the audience that gathered at a hotel in Kolkata in thrall when Congress MP Shashi Tharoor juggled his wit and wisdom while reading out from his latest book “A Wonderland of Words: Around the Word in 101 Essays” on Sunday.

It was a bright sunny day in Kolkata after days of heavy rains and Tharoor uplifted the spirit of bibliophiles with his subtle humorous punch, drawing a portrait with his captivating words and eloquent presentation of what they could expect from his book that he described was not at all ‘political’.

During the event, 68-year-old Tharoor also launched the Kolkata-based non-profit trust Prabha Khaitan Foundation’s book rack at Taj City Centre New Town.

“Prabha Khaitan Foundation is an organisation with which I have been involved with for many years,” the Congress MP said.

“They have done some terrific work around the country in promoting books,” he said.

Speaking on the book rack launch initiative, Tharoor said: “They will be unveiling the book rack which they will have across hotels, centres or institutions which will host their events.”

“Doing something for Prabha Khaitan is always fun because they are always committed to books,” he said.

He praised the members of the foundation for keeping alive the book-reading habit at a time when the world was enthralled with mobile phones and other electronic gadgets.

“Several women readers are associated with the organisation and this is indeed fascinating in this world where we are more used to laptop, television or mobile phone screens. We no longer pick up books and read them,” he said.

Tharoor, who returned to the Indian Parliament for another term this year by clinching victory in the Lok Sabha polls from the Thiruvananthapuram seat, said he hopes to see his readers enjoying his new book.

“This book is a slight departure from my usual kind of recent writings. It is not at all political,” he said.

“It is all about joy and use of words. I hope you will enjoy it. The book is meant to be accessible and entertaining and in the process, if it can inform and educate then its purpose will be served,” he said.

The book is published by Aleph Book Company.

Among others who attended the launch event included industrialist Harshvardhan Neotia, Mallika Verma, Gouri Basu, Manisha Jain, Anindita Chatterjee and Indranil Ray.

Kolkata, 5th September 2024: Indian Chamber of Commerce organised a special interaction with Celebrity MasterChef Ranveer Brar during the “India Luxe Lifestyle Forum,” a Gateway to the Eastern Luxury Market on Wednesday, 4th September 2024 in Kolkata. The event aimed to explore and elevate the culinary space, discussing hurdles to succeed within the space and shedding light of ongoing trends. The event was further enriched by the presence of Mr. Sagar Daryani, Co-founder, WOW Momo and Mr. Rohit Surana, Ex Co-chair ICC Retail Committee & Former Partner, Tejas Spire LLP.

Iterating on the emerging culinary trends, Celebrity Master Chef Ranveer Brar explained, “Food businesses need to understand that the product is useless without the correct market, where it fits. The product is only 20% of the game. The rest is about finding the right market, which means identifying where to place the product, who the customer is, and whether there’s a sizable market for it. The second key point is understanding what form the consumer wants the product in. A common mistake made by food businesses is believing they have the best product simply because they use top-quality ingredients. However, even the best product is useless without the right market fit. As a chef who is typically focused on the product, I can tell you that selling is about much more. Everything—product, price, promotion—must align with the market. The consumer is king and even a chef must acknowledge that. Whatever cost or quality is offered becomes redundant if the customer doesn’t want it. I always tell my chefs that sustainability is key to business survival in the food sector. For example, if we’re selling lentils for 100 dirhams and can’t make it for 60 dirhams ensuring quality, business won’t flourish. The food business is also driven by value, not just by selling ingredients. You can’t measure stories, connections, passion or emotions, yet these are the very elements that build a successful food business. It’s these intangible aspects that add value and sets our industry apart. The world often views India as a singular concept, overlooking its rich diversity. While it’s important to present a unified idea of India, this vision must be inclusive of the many forms of cuisines that exist. Historically, what we’ve showcased as Indian cuisine has lacked this inclusivity. Moving forward, the future of Indian cuisine lies in a representation that is both unified and reflective of India’s diverse culinary heritage.”

Commenting on the tacking hurdles within the food business, Master Chef Ranveer Brar said, “The food business isn’t like the stock market; you can’t hedge your bets. The start-stop mechanism isn’t fundamentally beneficial for the food business. Either you go all in or don’t go at all. You might face failures—I’ve closed more restaurants than I care to admit—but it’s all part of the journey. The industry is full of challenges, from spoilage to wastage, but it’s these challenges that make it worthwhile. It’s a passion-driven and belief-driven business. Success in this field requires unwavering determination and a deep-seated belief in your mission. You cannot falter in your conviction even when no one believes in you. You have to believe what you’re doing is right and have the potential to continue. If you’re ready to embrace that, then welcome to the world of food.”

Kolkata : Apollo Diagnostics, a unit of Apollo Health and Lifestyle Ltd., one of the leading diagnostic lab chains with an ISO certification; unveiled its 140th processing lab, in the country, at Kasba in South Kolkata. With a monthly processing capacity of over 25,000 samples, the new lab offers a broad spectrum of tests from routine to specialized, including home sample collection services. This expansion addresses the growing demand for high-quality diagnostic services in the region. Residents of Kasba will now have access to over 3,000 tests and various preventive Xpert Health Checkup packages of Apollo Diagnostics.

The laboratory spans over 1500 square feet and comprises multiple divisions, including Hematology, Biochemistry, Clinical Pathology, Serology and Microbiology. It uses fully automated instruments to avoid manual errors, and works as per the NABL quality standards to give accurate and precise test results. All the lab doctors and technicians are certified and professionally trained to service the customers with expertise. The timing of this lab which caters to the needs of people across all age groups is 8:00 am- 8:00 pm.

The state-of-the-art Apollo Diagnostics lab was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Mr Javed Ahmed Khan, MLA, Kasba Constituency. Apollo Diagnostics has 4 other labs in the region, in addition to this lab, along with 200 more centers in the state of West Bengal.

“Our new lab in Kasba helps us improve the turnaround time on reports and also strengthens our position in the state of West Bengal. Patients can now receive world-class diagnostic services right here”, Said Mr Sriram Iyer, Chief Executive Officer, Apollo Health & Lifestyle Limited.

“We have come up with a stat-of-the-art laboratory at Kasba. We have included a lot of preventive health check-ups to address the problems like diabetes, hypertension and cancer diagnosis. We are investing a lot in in West Bengal. We are coming up with a regional reference lab for east and setting up almost 10,000 sqft facility state-of-the-art molecular diagnostics as well as histopathology that will address more complex diseases like cancer. The investment will be of over 250 crores and the facility will be operational by October 15,” Said Devendra Singh Rajput, COO Of Apollo Diagnostics.

Kolkata, 02nd August 2024– The Hilsa/ Ilish season is upon us, and the kitchens of Bengal are bringing out their best recipes for the king amongst fishes. Be it the steamed bhaapa Ilish or the yogurt based doi Ilish, nothing complements the Hilsa more than the pungent fragrance of mustard oil. Fortune Kachi Ghani Mustard Oil is delighted to announce the launch of a special edition packaging designed to celebrate this iconic culinary event. Available exclusively in West Bengal and Tripura, this unique packaging highlights the rich tradition and cultural significance of the Hilsa fish.

The limited-edition pack features a striking design inspired by the 19th-century Kalighat potchitro art, offering a visual tribute to the region’s artistic heritage. This initiative is complemented by a comprehensive promotional campaign that includes a television commercial, local cooking competitions, and various consumer engagement activities. To signify the artistic legacy of the region, the brand has decorated trams, which are traditional modes of transport in West Bengal with innovative paintings that showcase various traditions and practices associated with Hilsa. Kalighat art has been incorporated in these paintings to ensure they resonate with the local population. Additionally, these artistic trams serve to promote cultural pride and raise awareness about the rich culinary legacy of Hilsa in West Bengal.

The first step in cooking Ilish remains spreading the golden yellow hue of the mustard oil on the pan. For every Ilish recipe like a banana leaf wrapped paturi, a mustard paste based jhaal or a simple fry or curry (jhol), the mustard oil remains ubiquitous. Adani Wilmar is keen to engage with the connoisseurs of Ilish and its recipes this season.

To connect with the audience on a deeper level, a series of User-Generated Content (UGC) has been posted, focusing on Bengali art and culture has been posted. A variety of Point of Sale Materials (POSM) are also on display in stores to attract consumers. Radio promotions have helped to further amplify the campaign to reach a wider audience.

Mr. Mukesh Mishra, Senior Vice-President of Sales & Marketing, commented on the launch: “We are excited to introduce our special Ilish pack during a season that holds immense cultural value for the people of West Bengal and Tripura. By incorporating the Kalighat-inspired design into our packaging, we aim to celebrate not only the Hilsa season but also the rich cultural traditions of the region. This initiative reflects our commitment to enhancing regional connections and resonating deeply with our consumers’ culinary traditions.”

For outdoor promotions, Adani Wilmar has been engaging in various compelling activities like fish market branding, installation of giant pack cut-outs, branding AC buses and metro branding, and restaurant branding. Outdoor hoardings and digital screens (OOH) were used to further promote the new pack. Competitions were hosted as part of society and fish market activations, with winners being invited to a mega finale event in August. Participants showcased their culinary skills by cooking delectable Ilish recipes, and the final winners will be celebrated by some of the region’s prominent chefs.

The special Ilish pack by Fortune Kachi Ghani Mustard Oil (KGMO) will be available for a limited time only during the month of July and August.

Kolkata , 29th July 2024 : Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences is delighted to announce a special Culinary Spice Symphony Dinner, at the one of the most acclaimed Ministry of Kebabs. This exclusive dining experience will take place from July 25th to July 27th 2024 at Ministry of Kebabs for Dinner and on 28th July,2024 at The Square for Brunch in Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences.

The event will be graced by two of Novotel’s most celebrated chefs, Chef Madeena Valli from Novotel Vishakhapatnam Varun Beach and Executive Sous Chef Sirajul Rahaman from Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences. These culinary maestros are going to collaborate to create an extraordinary gastronomic trail, highlighting the rich and diverse flavours of Indian spices.

Experience the culinary prowess of Chef Shaik Madina Valli and Chef Sirajul Rahaman as they collaborate to present a gastronomic journey through Andhra Pradesh’s rich culinary heritage. From traditional delicacies to innovative interpretations, every dish at ‘Flavours from City of Destiny’ reflects the essence of Andhra Pradesh’s diverse flavours and cultural influences.

Patrons attending the Culinary Spice Symphony Dinner can expect a meticulously curated menu that showcases the best of Indian spices, from aromatic starters to delectable main courses and indulgent desserts. Each dish will be a testament to the chefs’ expertise and their dedication to culinary excellence.

Chef Madeena Valli is known for his innovative approach to traditional Indian cuisine, bringing a fresh perspective and contemporary flair to classic dishes. His culinary creations are celebrated for their bold flavours and exquisite presentation.

Executive Chef Sirajul Rahaman of Novotel Kolkata is a master of authentic Indian cuisine, with a particular expertise in kebabs and tandoor specialties. His dishes are renowned for their perfect balance of spices and textures, making every bite a memorable experience.

Furthermore, the Chefs are also collaborating for an exclusive Culinary Symphony of Spices Brunch at The Square. For the brunch, the patrons will surely get a chance to embark on a culinary journey through traditional favourites from Andhra Pradesh, such as Nellore Chapala Pulusu, a tangy fish curry; Gongura Mamsam, featuring tender mutton with sorrel leaves; Natu Kodi Koora, a rustic chicken curry made with free-range chicken; Gutti Vankaya, brinjal stuffed with a spicy peanut-sesame paste; Raju Gari Royala Vepudu, a spicy prawn fry; and Ragi Sangatti, a dish made from finger millet flour, typically served with ghee to name some. Indulge in the rich culinary heritage of Andhra Pradesh fused with world cuisine offerings. From spicy delicacies to subtle flavours, every dish reflects the essence of Andhra cuisine, meticulously prepared to tantalize your taste buds.

“We are thrilled to host the Culinary Spice Symphony Dinner at Ministry of Kebabs and the Brunch at our all-day dining-The Square,” said Arjun Kaggallu, General Manager at Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences. ” This special event showcases the rich tapestry of Andhra Pradesh’s culinary heritage, expertly curated by our talented chefs. This culinary collaboration is a unique opportunity for our patrons to experience the incredible talent and creativity of Chef Madeena Valli and Executive Sous Chef Sirajul Rahaman. We look forward to an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of India.”

Adding to the allure of the event is complimentary access to Novotel Kolkata’s poolside retreat, where patrons can unwind and enjoy the serene ambiance amidst lush surroundings. To further enhance the cultural experience, live Bollywood music will set the mood, creating a perfect backdrop for a memorable Sunday brunch.

“We are thrilled to bring ‘Spicy Flavours of Andhra Pradesh’ to Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences,” said Chef Sirajul Rahaman. “This event celebrates the culinary diversity of Andhra Pradesh, offering our patrons an opportunity to indulge in authentic flavours and experience a blend of tradition and innovation.”

At Ministry of Kebabs, a culinary oasis nestled within Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences. Indulge in our signature kebab creations, meticulously crafted using traditional recipes and premium ingredients. From succulent skewers of marinated meats to flavourful vegetarian options, each dish is a celebration of bold flavours and authentic spices. Our expert chefs combine passion with expertise to deliver an unforgettable dining experience. Immerse yourself in the warm and inviting ambiance as you savour the rich aromas and tantalizing tastes of our kebabs. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely meal with loved ones or hosting a special event, Ministry of Kebabs promises to elevate your dining journey to new heights. Come, embark on a culinary adventure with us at Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences.

The best of Novotel Kolkata hospitality ensures that every dish encapsulates a distinctive and inspiring tale. Join us to embark on this extraordinary adventure, where you can immerse yourself in an unparalleled dining experience with exceptional service and culinary mastery meet and create unforgettable memories with every bite.

Kolkata, 25thJuly, 2024: Lalit Beriwala, a prominent figure in the steel and metals industry, commends the Union Budget 2024-25 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. True to the tradition of growth-driven and inclusive budgeting, this Budget stands out for its focus on four key areas: Annadata (Farmers), Garib (Poor), Yuva (Youth), and Mahilayen (Women). By advancing employment generation, skill enhancement, MSME growth, and middle-class economic strength, it sets a clear path toward inclusive economic progress.

The substantial allocation of Rs. 11,11,111 crore for infrastructure, along with Rs. 1.5 lakh crore in long-term interest-free loans to states, will invigorate key sectors such as steel, cement, and real estate, fostering job creation and sustained growth. The launch of Phase IV of PMGSY, investment in flood management and irrigation projects, and support for tourism development highlight the Budget’s commitment to both rural and urban advancement.

Additionally, the emphasis on innovative urban initiatives, support for tribal communities through the Pradhan Mantri Janajattiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan, and enhancements in MSME credit and tax structures reflect a forward-thinking approach to national development.

Lalit Beriwala is a prominent figure in the Indian steel industry, serving as the Director of Shyam Steel Industries Ltd. Shyam Steel, established in 1953, is one of the leading manufacturers of TMT bars in India. The company has a strong presence in the infrastructure sector, supplying high-quality steel products to various segments such as Indian Railways, Defence, and major construction projects.

Kolkata, 24th July, 2024: The trailer for the much-anticipated Bengali love story Sesh Jibon has been released, creating a buzz among cinema enthusiasts. Produced by Pradip Chopra under the banner of Ilead Presents, this poignant narrative delves into the bond between a grandfather and his granddaughter against the picturesque backdrops of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kolkata. Directed by Suvendu Raj Ghosh, the film is set to grace theaters on August 9th, 2024. The music is released by Zee music company.

The trailer, released on Zee Music’s social media platforms, offers a glimpse into the emotional depth and beautiful narrative that Sesh Jibon promises to deliver. The film features Pradip Chopra as Bikram Rathore, with an ensemble cast including Mukesh Rishi, Zarina Wahab, Mushtaq Khan, Punit Raj Sharma, and Kavya Kashyap in pivotal roles.

Pradip Chopra, who not only produced the film but also stars in it, shared his vision: Sesh Jibon is a heartfelt story that explores the profound connections we share with our loved ones. I believe the film’s emotional depth and beautiful narrative will resonate with audiences of all ages.

Director Suvendu Raj Ghosh added, Working on Sesh Jibon has been an extraordinary journey. The story’s unique blend of love and life’s challenges is portrayed with such authenticity and emotion, and I am confident that viewers will be deeply moved by our film.

The storyline unfolds with the unveiling of Vikram Singh Rathore’s book, inspired by his granddaughter Kavya. Flashbacks reveal the heartwarming yet heartrending journey of Vikram and Kavya as they navigate the trials of life and love.

The music for Sesh Jibon has been released by Zee Music and promises to be an evocative cinematic experience. With compositions by Bob S N and soulful lyrics and vocals by Shovon Ganguly, Trisha Chatterjee, and Pradip Chopra, the soundtrack adds a deep emotional layer to the film. The screenplay and dialogues by Sanjiv Tiwari and Pradip Chopra, along with the captivating visuals captured by DOP Arabinda Narayan Dolai, ensure that Sesh Jibon will be a memorable and emotional journey for audiences.

With its powerful trailer and promising soundtrack, Sesh Jibon is set to touch the hearts of viewers, offering a moving portrayal of love and life’s challenges. The film is all set to release at the theatres on 9th August, 2024.

Kolkata, 19th July 2024: Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) announced the appointment of Mr. David Yong Chai Kim as the Chief Representative for South Korea. This strategic appointment aims to strengthen the economic and trade ties between India and South Korea, fostering new opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Mr. Kim, an esteemed International Advisor for Potomac International Partners, brings nearly 25 years of experience in Business Development, Government Affairs, Market Research, and Communications across the United States, South Korea, and Asia. He is dedicated to leveraging his extensive experience and connections to help Businesses, Governments, and other organizations expand their operations in Korea and globally. His career began with the Pacific Consultant Corporation in Seoul, Korea, where he directed a robust Public Relations, Public Affairs, and new Business Development wing, establishing connections with individuals and businesses worldwide.

Following this, Mr. Kim became the Managing Director of the Dong Nam Research Institute and served as the Korean Representative for the Washington-based CCI, advising the company’s International Quasi-Government and Multinational Corporations wing. He has also held the position of Senior Consultant for Patton Boggs LLC, an AM Law 100 firm. He has also served as the President of Cadmus Korea.

Currently, Mr. Kim serves as the Chairman of JS Flux, South Korea. Additionally, he is a Partner and Advisor for the Rogich Communications Group of Las Vegas, Nevada, where he oversees the company’s new business and development initiatives in Korea.

“We are delighted to welcome Mr. David Yong Chai Kim to the Indian Chamber of Commerce as our Chief Representative for South Korea,” said Mr. Ameya Prabhu, President of ICC. “His extensive experience and deep insights into the South Korean market will be invaluable in driving our strategic objectives. We are confident that under his leadership, the ICC will further strengthen the economic and business ties between India and South Korea”

Mr. Kim expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “I am honored to be appointed as the Chief Representative of the Indian Chamber of Commerce in South Korea. I look forward to working closely with both Indian and South Korean businesses to unlock new opportunities and drive mutual growth. This is an exciting time for India-South Korea relations, and I am committed to contributing to this dynamic partnership.”

This appointment comes at a critical moment as India and South Korea work to enhance economic collaboration. South Korea considers India a key trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching a record $27.5 billion in 2023-24. Both nations aim to diversify trade routes and discover new growth opportunities, targeting $50 billion in bilateral trade by 2030. The Indian Chamber of Commerce remains committed to fostering global business relations and promoting economic growth. The appointment of Mr. David Yong Chai Kim underscores the ICC’s dedication to expanding its international presence and strengthening bilateral trade ties.

Kolkata: ICICI Bank has set up a branch at Naskarpara Lane in Kolkata. The branch, 277th of the Bank in the city, is equipped with an ATM.

Mr. Debasish Kumar, Member of Legislative Assembly, Rashbehari Constituency, inaugurated the branch.

The branch offers a comprehensive range of accounts, including savings and current accounts, trade and forex services, fixed and recurring deposits, loans including business loan, home loan, personal loan, auto loan, and gold loan, along with remittance and card services for resident as well as non-resident Indians. It further provides locker facility at its premises. It operates from 9:30 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. on Monday to Friday and on the first, third, and fifth Saturdays of the month.

The branch also offers Tab Banking facility that provides nearly 100 services at the customer’s place by an employee through a tablet device. The services include opening of accounts and Fixed Deposit (FD), raising cheque book request, generation of e-statements and change of address, among others.

ICICI Bank has a network of more than 290 branches and over 710 ATMs and cash recycling machines (CRMs) in West Bengal.