Sohna Road has changed considerably over the past two decades. What was once seen as an emerging commercial corridor has gradually become one of Gurugram’s most established business addresses. Residential projects came up; offices followed; schools and hospitals added to the catchment; and, over the years, much of the available land was occupied. Today, sizeable land parcels for organised commercial developments are increasingly difficult to come by. In that sense, Aura Vantage arrives at a time when Sohna Road is offering one of its last opportunities to own organised commercial real estate.

Aura Vantage is redefining commercial investment potential on Sohna Road

Located in Sector 48, Aura Vantage is a two-acre luxury commercial development that combines organised retail and office spaces within a single address. Planned with retail across the ground floor to the fourth floor and office spaces from the fifth to the eleventh floor, the project has been designed around the way commercial developments are increasingly expected to function. The investment in the project’s construction stands at around Rs. 125 crores, while the estimated topline is pegged at Rs. 527 crores. Commercial units are priced from Rs. 50,00,000 onwards.

The timing is difficult to ignore. Commercial real estate in Gurugram has continued to remain resilient, supported by sustained office leasing, a growing presence of Global Capability Centres and a mature residential base that drives demand for organised retail. According to Colliers, India’s Grade A office leasing reached a record 71.5 million sq. ft. in 2025, with Delhi NCR remaining one of the country’s most active office markets. That demand has also changed the way commercial projects are planned. Location still matters, but it is no longer the only consideration.

Retailers today look beyond visibility alone. They evaluate the strength of the surrounding catchment, customer demographics and the ability of a project to sustain footfall throughout the day. They want to know what the surrounding catchment looks like, how people move through the building, whether offices are part of the development and if the project can remain active beyond shopping hours. Office occupiers ask similar questions. They look for workplaces that offer cafes, convenience retail, banking facilities and everyday services without employees having to step out every time they need something. Those conversations have become increasingly common over the past few years.

Aura Vantage appears to respond to those expectations through its planning. Rather than treating retail and offices as two independent products, the project attempts to let one support the other. Retail occupies the lower floors where visibility and customer movement matter the most. The office component rises above, creating a steady weekday population that can support businesses operating within the development. It is a straightforward planning approach, but one that helps create a more balanced commercial environment by bringing together steady office demand and organised retail.

Shyamrup Roy Choudhury, Founder & Managing Director, Aura World, said, “Sohna Road has evolved into one of Gurugram’s most established commercial corridors, and the availability of sizeable land parcels for organised developments is now extremely limited. With Aura Vantage, our focus is on creating a future-ready commercial address that integrates retail and office spaces within a strong residential and corporate catchment. We believe projects in mature, supply-constrained micro-markets are increasingly being evaluated for their long-term relevance, occupier demand and ability to remain active throughout the day, and Aura Vantage has been planned with exactly those priorities in mind.”

Its location strengthens that proposition further. Sector 48 enjoys seamless connectivity to Golf Course Extension Road, Southern Peripheral Road and NH-48, allowing businesses to draw customers, employees and visitors from multiple parts of Gurugram. As commercial activity continues to spread across the city, this accessibility has become an increasingly important competitive advantage.

Scarcity is now becoming part of the Sohna Road story as well. Unlike a decade ago, when new commercial projects were announced with regularity, opportunities to launch developments of meaningful scale have become increasingly limited because much of the corridor has already been developed. That changes the conversation for both occupiers and investors. The emphasis gradually shifts from simply acquiring commercial space to choosing locations that are likely to remain relevant over the long term. The existing retail developments along Sohna Road are relatively older and no longer fully align with the evolving expectations of today’s consumers. While the corridor continues to attract strong footfall, Aura Vantage introduces a contemporary retail destination that reflects changing consumer preferences and retail formats.

Sohna Road is no longer defining itself through new infrastructure or fresh land releases. It is beginning to be defined by the quality of developments that still find a place here. Aura Vantage enters the market at a point when that distinction is becoming increasingly important.

Culture is increasingly shaping how and where Indians choose to explore. As travellers move beyond traditional sightseeing, they are seeking deeper, more authentic experiences that connect them with the local heritage, traditions, cuisine, festivals and communities. Leading global travel app, Skyscanner has launched The India Culture Travel Index, a report that reveals that India’s appetite for culture-led travel continues to grow.

Navina Jafa, expert in heritage tourism and Neel Ghose, Travel Trends and Destinations Expert, Skyscanner India

Through The India Culture Travel Index, Skyscanner analysed the evolving behaviours driving culture-led travel in India. The findings uncover five defining trends that together form the R.O.O.T.S. of India’s growing culture-led travel movement:

R – Rediscovering heritage

Heritage continues to be the strongest driver of culture-led travel. It is the top motivator for Indian travellers, with 47% saying they would plan a trip around heritage and historical sites. Kerala, Rajasthan and Uttarakhand rank among the country’s leading cultural destinations, reflecting travellers’ growing interest in exploring India’s architectural landmarks, historic communities and living traditions.

O – Open discovery

As Indian travellers become more open to discovering destinations through culture, they are embracing more immersive experiences beyond traditional sightseeing. Social media and YouTube (42%), along with the growing popularity of food, craft and heritage trails (41%), are the biggest drivers behind growing interest in culture-led travel.

Beyond domestic travel, 46% of Indian travellers have already travelled internationally for a cultural event, festival or heritage trail, while a further 43% aspire to do so, highlighting a growing curiosity to explore culture both within India and around the world. This openness extends closer to home too, with one in four Indian travellers (25%) heading to Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns for cultural experiences, beyond the usual metro circuit.

O – Once-in-a-year experiences

Festival tourism is emerging as a powerful travel driver, with 72% of Indian travellers saying they would consider planning a trip specifically to attend a major cultural or religious festival. India’s iconic festivals are powerful travel motivators, with Durga Puja (58%) emerging as the top festival travellers would consider travelling to attend, followed by Ganesh Chaturthi (52%) and Navratri Garba (47%).

The findings suggest that travellers are increasingly treating major festivals as limited-time experiences worth planning an entire holiday around, rather than simply activities to enjoy after arriving at a destination.

T – Traditions & Taste

Food, crafts, and local traditions continue to play an increasingly important role in shaping culture-led travel. Regional food experiences rank among the top reasons for travel, with 43% of Indian travellers saying they would plan a trip around them. The growing popularity highlights an appetite for experiences that connect travellers with a destination’s local traditions, flavours and way of life.

S – Smarter planning

As cultural experiences become a bigger travel priority, travellers are becoming more intentional in how they plan their journeys. Most Indian travellers begin planning their culture-led trips well in advance, with 40% starting three to six months ahead and 36% beginning one to three months before departure.

Festival timing has become the biggest booking consideration, with 36% of travellers saying availability during key festival or event dates matters most, followed by affordable prices for transport and accommodation (32%).

With many cultural experiences taking place at specific times of the year, Skyscanner’s Price Alerts allow travellers to monitor fare changes without having to repeatedly search, while Whole Month search lets them compare prices across different travel dates to identify the best value around festivals, heritage trails and other cultural experiences.

Looking ahead, India’s appetite for culture-led travel shows no signs of slowing. With 41% Indian travellers planning to take two culture-focused trips within India over the next year, 32% expect to take three to four. While enthusiasm remains high, safety concerns (49%) and high travel costs (37%) continue to be the biggest barriers to taking more culture-led journeys.

Neel Ghose, Travel Trends and Destinations Expert, Skyscanner India, said, “For a long time, people chose a destination first and discovered its culture once they arrived. We’re increasingly seeing that journey now happens in reverse. Travellers are starting with the experience they want, whether that’s witnessing Durga Puja, exploring a heritage trail or discovering a region through its food, and then building the trip around it. That shift is changing not just where people travel, but how they plan.

When festival dates are fixed and demand is high, comparing different travel dates, airlines, airports and routes can help travellers find better value. For instance, try mixing and matching airlines or airports when you are searching for flights, and use helpful tools like Skyscanner’s Price Alerts, to find better value when planning travel. “

Dr Navina Jafa, an expert in heritage tourism, sustainability, cultural strategy, and Kathak dance, said, “India’s cultural heritage is not only about monuments, but also the ecosystems around heritage landscapes: creative skilled communities, cultural traditions, and living practices. Studies show a growing number of travellers seeking immersive heritage experiences, underlining India’s need to invest in its vast geographical diversity and multilayered cultural legacy. This fast-growing sector offers major opportunities for conservation, economic growth, and for strengthening heritage tourism nationally and globally.”

As India’s appetite for culture-led travel continues to grow, Skyscanner continues to help travellers uncover the R.O.O.T.S. of every journey, from rediscovering heritage and open discovery to once-in-a-year experiences, traditions, and taste, and smarter planning.

Top destinations to connect with your ROOTS**

Skyscanner has also curated a selection of cultural destinations across India, helping travellers turn inspiration into their next journey. Explore the guide here.

About Skyscanner 

Skyscanner is a global leader in travel that helps travellers plan and book their trips with ease and confidence. Every month, Skyscanner connects millions of travellers, in 180 countries and 37 languages, to more than 1200 trusted travel partners so they can find flight, hotel or car hire options. Founded in 2003, Skyscanner has offices worldwide, in Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America, where traveller-first innovations are developed and powered by data and insights. Making use of the latest technology, Skyscanner simplifies the complexity of travel and provides honest and transparent solutions, searching around 100 billion prices every day so travellers can be sure they’ve seen the best possible options, all in one place.

Note to Editors

*Skyscanner research conducted with OnePoll in July 2026 with 2,000 respondents in India.

**Live prices dated 27th July 2026, one-way trip from Delhi to destinations. Subject to change

(1) Almora does not have an airport – prices are for Dehradun (354 kms)

(2) Puri does not have an airport – prices are for Bhubaneswar (65 kms)

(3) Kohima does not have an airport – prices are for Imphal (120 kms)

The classic franchise rivalry between Super Giants and Sunrisers takes centre stage on August 11 at 6:30 PM at Old Trafford for Match 30 of The Hundred. Parimatch’s Chief Cricket Analyst Jonty Rhodes believes that with playoff qualifications on the line, the intensity in both camps is going to be sky-high.

Super Giants vs Sunrisers: Jonty Rhodes Predicts Winner in Match 30

Old Trafford is known for extra pace and bounce, so the pacers who nail those hard lengths early are going to dominate the power set.

“For the batters, their power alone isn’t enough on these big boundaries. You need smart placement, quick running between the wickets, and the composure to absorb pressure in those middle overs,” Rhodes notes.

Jonty Rhodes thinks that players must force errors from the opponent.

“So, where does this game get won? Body language and field pressure,” Rhodes says. “The team that creates panic in the inner ring and cuts off those boundaries will break the opposition.”

Currently, both squads are tied on points in the table, making this match crucial for securing a top-three playoff spot. As The Hundred reaches its decisive stages, both franchises are eager to reach the finals after missing out on the trophy in recent seasons, adding extra stakes to this clash.

For more exclusive predictions from Jonty Rhodes, follow Parimatch’s official social media channels for regular match analysis and expert insights.
 

Contributed by– Chief Cricket Analyst, Jonty Rhodes

Fortis Escorts Faridabad, today launched Faridabad’s first dedicated Lung Failure Clinic, aimed at providing comprehensive care for patients suffering from advanced and end-stage lung diseases. The clinic will operate every Tuesday from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad and will be led by Dr. Govini Balasubramani, Director – Lung Transplant & Advanced Lung Failure, Gleneagles Hospital, Chennai (a Fortis Network Hospital) along with Dr. Ravi Shekhar Jha, Director – Pulmonology & Sleep Medicine, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad.

Fortis Escorts Faridabad Launches Faridabad’s First Comprehensive Lung Failure Clinic

The clinic will offer end-to-end management for patients with advanced lung failure, including comprehensive disease evaluation, optimisation of medical therapy, and assessment of eligibility for lung transplantation. Eligible patients will receive structured pre-transplant counselling, detailed clinical work-up, and seamless post-transplant follow-up in collaboration with the transplant specialists. In addition, patients will have access to advanced pulmonary function testing, bronchoscopy and interventional pulmonology procedures, pulmonary rehabilitation programmes, nutritional counselling, sleep evaluation, non-invasive ventilation support, and personalised patient education. By bringing together respiratory physicians, transplant specialists, rehabilitation experts, and allied healthcare professionals, the clinic aims to improve clinical outcomes, enhance quality of life, and provide continuity of care for patients living with advanced respiratory diseases.

Dr Govini Balasubramani, Director, Lung Transplant & Advanced Lung Failure, Gleneagles Hospital, Chennai (a Fortis Network Hospital) added, “We are witnessing a steady rise in patients with advanced lung diseases, driven by multiple factors including air pollution, tobacco exposure, occupational hazards, infections and an ageing population. Unfortunately, many patients reach us only when their lung function has deteriorated significantly. The Lung Failure Clinic has been established to bridge this gap by providing comprehensive evaluation, optimisation of medical therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation and, where appropriate, timely assessment for lung transplantation.”

Speaking on the launch, Dr Ravi Shekhar Jha, Director, Pulmonology & Sleep Medicine, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad said, “As pulmonologists, we are seeing more patients presenting with severe respiratory impairment, often at a stage when treatment options become limited. Through the Lung Failure Clinic, we aim to provide timely access to multidisciplinary expertise, personalised treatment plans and advanced therapies, while identifying patients who may benefit from lung transplantation before they become too sick or develop contraindications for transplant.”

SettleMint India, today announced its strategic rebranding to Quadcentrix, marking its evolution from a blockchain technology specialist into a comprehensive enterprise digital solutions provider. The new identity reflects the company’s expanded capabilities across artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics and other emerging technologies, positioning it to help enterprises navigate increasingly complex digital transformation journeys.

Core Team at the launch of the Quadcentrix Office

The rebranding comes as India’s enterprise technology landscape undergoes a drastic transformation. The country’s enterprise AI market is projected to grow from approximately USD 13 billion in 2025 to more than USD 130 billion by 2032, according to Fortune Business Insights, while IBM’s Global AI Adoption Index found that 59% of large Indian enterprises already have AI actively in use, the highest share among the countries surveyed. As that shift accelerates, enterprises are increasingly looking for a single technology partner that can move fluidly across AI, blockchain and data, rather than stitching together point solutions from different vendors.

Shahzad Fatmi CEO Quadcentrix

Quadcentrix, formerly SettleMint India, has emerged to meet this demand. The rebranding signifies the company’s evolution from a blockchain specialist into a full spectrum technology partner, spanning enterprise AI orchestration, blockchain trust, and data transformation.

Founded in 2019, the company has spent over six years delivering enterprise technology infrastructure, building a track record that today includes 20+ enterprise clients globally, with services and solutions delivered across 5 countries. Its work covers diverse sectors including Banking and Financial Services (BFSI), Government and Public Sector, Capital Markets, Agritech and Healthcare & Life Sciences. Having established itself in India in the last few years, the company plans to leverage its strong foothold and target a double-digit growth in the first year of the rebranded entity. 

“The market has moved faster than the vendor categories built to serve it,” said Shahzad Fatmi, CEO of Quadcentrix. “Our clients no longer come to us with a single blockchain problem to solve. They come with a business challenge that spans data, AI and trust, often all at once. Over six years, we built the team and the track record to meet them there, and Quadcentrix is the name that finally reflects that breadth.”

The name ‘Quadcentrix’ is built around two key ideas: “Quad,” representing the four pillars that power its delivery model (collaborative excellence, trusted expertise, agile delivery, and independent flexibility), and “Centrix,” reflecting a client centred approach to every engagement.

The company has confirmed that the rebranding will not impact existing client contracts, ownership structures, or the teams supporting current engagements.

Quadcentrix will begin rolling out its new brand identity across its digital presence, client communications and business materials, in the coming weeks. 

More information about the company’s services, solutions and industry work is available at www.quadcentrix.com.

About Quadcentrix
Quadcentrix (formerly SettleMint India) is a technology company that helps enterprises modernise their data foundations, apply enterprise AI, and build trusted blockchain solutions. Founded in 2019, the company has delivered 6+ years of enterprise technology work for 20+ clients across 5 countries, serving sectors including Banking & Financial Services, Government & Public Sector, Capital Markets, Agritech, and Healthcare & Life Sciences. Quadcentrix is headquartered in India with a team spanning architecture, AI, engineering and delivery.

Galgotias University has delivered an outstanding performance in the Times BBA Education Ranking Survey 2026, published in The Times of India, further strengthening its position among the country’s leading institutions for management education.

The University climbed in three major categories led by a four-place jump to No. 2 in the country for placements. The placement result, up from No. 6 last year, was the University’s sharpest gain in the survey.

Across the categories, Galgotias University now ranks:

• No. 2 in India for BBA placements, up from No. 6

• No. 8 among India’s Top 70 BBA institutes, up from No. 9

• No. 5 among private BBA universities in India, up from No. 6

• No. 5 among BBA institutes in North India, holding last year’s position

Galgotias University ranks #2 in India for Placements in the Times BBA Survey 2026

Placement results across the University

The BBA ranking rests on placement numbers that run strong across the University. In the 2026 drive, Galgotias University students secured more than 5,500 offers from over 1,250 recruiting organisations. The highest package reached INR 60 lakh per annum, the average package stood at INR 5.4 lakh per annum, and the top internship carried a stipend of INR 1.25 lakh per month.

Prominent recruiters included top-tier technology, financial services and consulting firms. Infosys made 526 offers, Capgemini 228, Cognizant 205, City Union Bank 188, Accenture 91 and EY 61. The wider recruiter list includes Cisco, JPMorgan, Deloitte, KPMG and Tata Power. Hiring for the 2026-27 cohort is already underway, with early offers from Deloitte, EY and KPMG.

Industry connect

The placement record follows directly from how the University teaches. Galgotias University runs close to 20 industry-aligned Centres of Excellence and learning centres built with firms including Apple, Infosys, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, Salesforce and IBM. These centres give students hands-on work with current technology, industry-certified learning paths and direct contact with practitioners, so graduates arrive at recruiters already familiar with the tools and expectations of the job.

Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO of Galgotias University, said, “Rising from sixth to second in the country for BBA placements tells our students and faculty that the approach is working. We built the programme around practical education, workplace skills and close industry engagement, and these results show up in where our graduates land. Our job now is to keep giving students the knowledge, experience and opportunities to build strong careers and lead as business changes around them.”

Growing national and global standing

The Times BBA result follows a series of recent rankings for Galgotias University and its School of Business.

In the QS World University Rankings 2027, Galgotias University was placed in the 1201-1400 global band, 16th among private universities in India and 46th among all Indian universities, public and private combined. It marks the third year in a row that the University has featured among India’s top private institutions, and it ranks among the top three in Uttar Pradesh.

In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the University was placed 27th among private universities in India and its Business and Economics discipline entered the 601-800 global band.

The India Today-MDRA Best Colleges Survey 2026 ranked the School of Business 3rd among BBA institutions in Uttar Pradesh.

Each survey uses its own methodology and criteria. Read together, they cover the University’s performance across placements, academic quality, research and international standing.

Galgotias University ties management education to internships, live projects, entrepreneurship, technology-enabled learning and direct work with industry professionals. Students solve real business problems and build skills in decision-making, communication, teamwork and leadership. The University plans to expand its industry partnerships, hands-on learning and career-development programmes further.

About Galgotias University

Galgotias University is one of India’s leading multidisciplinary universities recognised for academic excellence, research, innovation, global collaborations, and industry aligned education. With a vibrant student community of over 50,000 learners and a global alumni network of more than 100,000 graduates, the University has built a rapidly growing ecosystem focused on technology, entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world impact.

In the QS World University Rankings 2027 by Quacquarelli Symonds, Galgotias University was placed in the 1201-1400 global band and ranked 16th among private universities and 46th among all universities in India. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the University was placed in the 1201-1500 global band and ranked 27th among private universities and 65th among all universities in India. The University is also accredited with NAAC A+, one of India’s highest institutional quality ratings.

Galgotias University offers programmes across engineering, artificial intelligence, computer science, semiconductors, business, law, media, design, health sciences, hospitality, liberal education, and emerging interdisciplinary domains. In 2026, students secured more than 5,500 job offers from over 1,250 recruiters. The University has built strong industry and innovation partnerships with organisations including Apple, Infosys, IBM, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, and Salesforce, while continuing to strengthen its global academic engagement and startup ecosystem.

 The vivo S2 marks the return of the brand’s S-series to India after nearly seven years, arriving with a curved display, a large battery, and a design-first approach aimed at younger buyers. Ahead of its India debut, here is how the vivo S2 is shaping up against some of the latest vivo smartphones already turning heads in 2026, and how you can bring one home on Easy EMIs.

vivo S2 First Look: Explore its design, features, camera and performance, and see how the latest vivo S2 compares with vivo smartphones in 2026

vivo S2: The first look
The vivo S2 will launch in India on 6 August 2026, and early reports point to a phone built around a bold display and all-day battery life.

The standout here is the pairing of a large, curved screen with a 7,050 mAh battery, a combination that should suit anyone who streams, scrolls, or games through the day without reaching for a charger too often. The dual rear setup, backed by 4K video on both cameras, gives it a genuine edge for casual content creation, while wireless charging is a rare addition at this segment.

vivo V80 5G: The next V-series contender
The V-series has built its reputation on camera performance, and the upcoming vivo V80 5G looks set to continue that trend with a sharper display and a bigger battery than its predecessor.

Where the vivo S2 leans on screen size and battery capacity, the V80 5G looks to bring a faster refresh rate and a Zeiss-tuned triple camera into the conversation, making it a strong pick for buyers who prioritise photography alongside everyday performance.

vivo X300 FE: The compact flagship benchmark

For a sense of where vivo’s flagship ambitions sit, the vivo X300 FE offers a useful reference point. Launched on 6th May 2026, it brings a 6.31-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, and 12GB RAM for smooth gaming and multitasking.

The X300 FE proves that a compact body needn’t mean compromise, packing flagship silicon and a versatile triple camera into a phone that’s easier to handle one-handed. It sets a useful benchmark for what buyers can expect as they move up vivo’s 2026 lineup.

Pricing at a glance
Early pricing indications place these three phones across a wide spread, giving buyers options at different budgets.

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Please check the official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Shopping made easier with Easy EMIs from Bajaj Finance
Whichever vivo smartphone catches your eye, spreading the cost makes it easier to own. With an Easy EMI Loan offering a loan offer amount of up to Rs. 5 lakh, or an Insta EMI Card offering a loan offer amount of up to Rs. 3 lakh, both with tenures between 3 and 60 months, upgrading your phone need not mean paying the full price upfront.

Buying on Easy EMIs from a Bajaj Finance partner store is straightforward:

• Check your loan eligibility online in a few minutes

• Visit any of the 1.5 lakh+ partner stores across 4,000+ cities in India

• Pick your preferred vivo smartphone and confirm the EMI plan that fits your budget

• Complete the paperwork in-store and walk out with your new phone

This wide network means a partner store is rarely far away, whether you are in a metro city or a smaller town. Buyers can also look forward to zero down payment on select models, Easy EMIs starting from Rs. 830, flexible tenures ranging between 3 and 60 months, and up to 60% off the price of select phones, making a display and camera upgrade far more accessible.

With three distinct phones on offer, from the design-led vivo S2 to the camera-focused V80 5G and the compact X300 FE, there is a vivo smartphone to suit most needs and budgets, all of them within easier reach thanks to Easy EMIs from Bajaj Finance.

Ai+ Smartphone today announced its partnership with Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) Season 18, bringing the new-age Indian smartphone brand together with one of the country’s most iconic and trusted television properties.

Ai+ Smartphone Partners with Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 18

For over two decades, KBC and its legendary host Amitabh Bachchan have stood for credibility, knowledge and aspiration, earning the trust of generations of Indian audiences. For Ai+ Smartphone, the association reflects a shared belief that trust is not claimed, it is earned over time.

As a young Indian technology brand, Ai+ Smartphone is building its journey around transparency, privacy and consumer-first technology. Its association with KBC gives the brand an opportunity to take this vision to millions of households across India.

Archi Gogoi, Head of Brand, Marketing & Growth, Ai+ Smartphone and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said, “KBC is more than a television show; it is a part of India’s cultural fabric. Over the years, KBC and Mr. Bachchan have built an extraordinary legacy of credibility and trust. As a young Indian brand, that resonates deeply with us. We are building Ai+ with the belief that trust has to be earned every day through our products, our actions and our transparency. This partnership brings together an established legacy of trust with a new Indian technology brand aspiring to earn the same confidence from consumers.”

The association marks another step in Ai+ Smartphone’s journey towards building an Indian technology brand rooted in trust, privacy and transparency.

About Ai+ Smartphone

Ai+ Smartphone is a next generation brand built in India, delivering reliable and high-performance mobile experiences. Powered by NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign mobile operating system. The brand focuses on delivering a clean design, ensuring long battery life, and maintaining trusted software performance, all while keeping prices accessible without compromising the user experience.

From redefining smartphones to pioneering AIoT products as part of the company’s Connected Ecosystem, Ai+ Smartphone is creating a new standard for trust, immersive experience, and accessibility. Rooted in a privacy-first architecture and a commitment to equitable access, Ai+ Smartphone stands for more than specs — it stands for India’s next era of user-owned, future-ready technology.

About Ai+ and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies

NxtQuantum Shift Technologies is a deep-tech Indian company building secure, sovereign digital platforms for a digital-first world. Founded by Madhav Sheth, the company develops NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign operating system, and is committed to building technology that is designed, engineered and developed in India while remaining globally competitive.

Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) Bengaluru, a constituent unit of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University, today inaugurated the IBM–MIT AI Lab – MAHE Intelligence GPU (MIG) at its Bengaluru campus in collaboration with IBM. The Centre houses a High-Performance Computing (HPC) facility and is designed to democratise access to Artificial Intelligence (AI). The Lab will provide advanced AI computing resources, research infrastructure, and digital skilling opportunities to students, researchers, and institutions across India.

MAHE-IBM inaugurated the AI Lab in Bengaluru

The Lab was inaugurated by Prof. Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru & Nisha Gopinath, Vice President, Human Resources, IBM India and South Asia, in the presence of Shipra Sharma, CSR Leader, IBM India and South Asia, Dr. E. V. Ramana Reddy, IAS, Chairman, KSDA, Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu, Additional Registrar, MAHE Bengaluru, Dr. Iven Jose, Director, MIT Bengaluru and Dr. Dayanand, Dean, School of Computing & Engineering, along with senior leaders from IBM, faculty members, researchers, students, and industry representatives.

Powered by advanced GPU-enabled computing infrastructure, AI Lab will support cutting-edge research in machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, computer vision, natural language processing, cybersecurity, healthcare, intelligent systems and data analytics. The facility can simultaneously support 30 high-performance computing workloads. It will provide faculty members, researchers, innovators and students with world-class computational resources to develop next-generation AI solutions.

Beyond enabling advanced research, AI Lab has been envisioned as a collaborative platform/hub that bridges academia and industry. It will support industry-sponsored projects, interdisciplinary research, faculty development programmes, student innovation, hackathons, internships, startup incubation and collaborative technology development. Together, these initiatives will create an ecosystem where ideas can rapidly evolve into impactful solutions.

A defining feature of the initiative is its commitment to inclusive AI education. Through IBM SkillsBuild, IBM’s free technology education program, MIT BLRU will establish an AI Learning Initiative. The programme will offer AI awareness workshops, immersive bootcamps, hands-on training in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, IBM SkillsBuild digital credentials, mentorship from MIT BLRU faculty and student volunteers, and access to advanced computing infrastructure. By reaching students from Tier 2 and Tier 3 institutions, the initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and equip learners with industry-relevant skills for the AI-driven economy.

“I commend MIT, BLRU and IBM on launching the IBM-MIT, AI Lab and their shared commitment to advancing AI education and nurturing future-ready talent. This collaboration highlights the power of academia-industry partnerships in strengthening Karnataka’s AI ecosystem. By providing access to advanced AI infrastructure, hands-on learning, and resources, the lab will empower students and researchers to accelerate innovation and develop AI-driven solutions that address societal challenges and contribute to inclusive growth,” said Priyank Kharge, Cabinet Minister for Home, IT & BT, e-Governance, Government of Karnataka.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru, said, “Artificial Intelligence must become an enabler for everyone, not just a privileged few. AI Lab reflects our commitment to combining world-class research with social impact by expanding access to AI education, fostering innovation and preparing learners for an AI-driven future. Our collaboration with IBM is a significant step towards building an inclusive and globally competitive AI ecosystem.”

Sandip Patel, Managing Director, IBM India and South Asia said, “India stands at a pivotal moment in its AI journey, with the talent, innovation ecosystem, and digital foundations to lead the next wave of global AI innovation. Realising this potential requires stronger collaboration between talent, research, advanced computing, and industry. Our collaboration with MIT BLRU reflects IBM’s commitment to democratizing access to emerging technologies, enterprise-grade computing, and digital skills, empowering students and researchers to advance AI innovation. Together, we are strengthening India’s AI research ecosystem and driving innovations that create meaningful impact for India and the world,”

Dr. Iven Jose, Director, MIT Bengaluru, said the Centre would significantly strengthen the University’s AI research ecosystem. “MIG provides our students and researchers with the computing power needed to solve complex challenges and accelerate AI innovation. By integrating advanced infrastructure with industry collaboration, we are creating an ecosystem that nurtures research excellence, hands-on learning and industry-ready talent.”

MIG marks a significant milestone in Karnataka’s higher education and innovation ecosystem. By combining advanced High-Performance Computing infrastructure with large-scale AI skilling, industry collaboration and community outreach, the Centre is expected to catalyse transformative research, innovation, entrepreneurship and talent development. As Artificial Intelligence continues to reshape industries and societies, MIG positions MIT Bengaluru as a leading hub for AI research, talent development and responsible innovation. 

About MAHE
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. MAHE offers over 400 specialisations across Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 rankings, MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life, as well as for national and multinational corporations seeking top talent.

About IBM
IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud and AI, and consulting expertise. We help clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain the competitive edge in their industries. Thousands of governments and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM’s hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM’s breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM’s long-standing commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity and service.

Peter England today announced the launch of “VYBE”, a contemporary menswear sub-brand shaped by how a new generation dresses today. With modern fits, effortless styling and accessible prices, VYBE brings a more relaxed and individual expression to Peter England’s British-rooted, dressed-up sensibility. The result feels current and expressive, yet unmistakably Peter England.

 

From L-R: India’s Leading artist Tricksingh with Anand Aiyer, Chief Business Officer, Peter England and THE IMBACHI

 

The launch introduces a range of overshirts, shackets, structured polos, oversized T-shirts, cargos, denim, Korean-fit trousers and coordinated separates. Designed with an emphasis on comfort, versatility and ease of styling, the range brings together elevated essentials that can be worn across multiple occasions. Starting at Rs 1,200, with every piece priced below Rs 2,000, VYBE makes contemporary fashion accessible without compromising on quality, craftsmanship or design.

 

To mark the launch, Peter England has introduced VYBE Verified, an original music-led campaign conceptualised by Ogilvy, featuring independent artists Tricksingh and THE IMBACHI. The campaign reimagines what it means to be “verified”, celebrating individuals who trust their own instincts, express themselves with confidence and define success on their own terms.

 

Commenting on the launch, Anand Aiyer, Chief Business Officer, Peter England, added: “VYBE is an important step in further deepening Peter Englands’ relevance with Gen Z and bringing younger consumers into the brand. Contemporary product, accessible pricing and a culture-led campaign create a strong platform for future growth while keeping the proposition distinctly Peter England ”

 

The artists collaborated through a series of studio jam sessions to create an original track inspired by the brand’s creative idea. The partnership culminates in a music video that brings together fashion and music, positioning VYBE Verified as an expression of the confidence and creative energy that shape the brand.

 

Commenting on the vision behind VYBE, Priyank Karanam, Creative Director, Peter England, said: “The creative idea behind VYBE was simple: to make dressing well feel effortless. Relaxed fits, fresh styling and considered details create looks that feel young and individual, while retaining the put-together character of Peter England.”

 

Peter England created an immersive VYBE launch experience at its Indiranagar store in Bengaluru, bringing fashion, music and culture together. Designed as a content-friendly destination for creators and consumers alike, the space featured VYBE Verified branding across multiple touchpoints, inviting guests to engage with the brand and create their own interpretation of the campaign. The experience was brought to life through live performances by Tricksingh and THE IMBACHI as they unveiled the collection.

 

The first drop of VYBE is now available across 50 Peter England stores nationwide and is also available on Peterengland.com and Myntra. 

About Peter England

Peter England is one of India’s most loved and largest menswear brands, selling more than 14 million garments every year across 1000+ exclusive stores, 3,500+ multi-brand outlets, and 800+ towns, along with a strong e-commerce presence. Launched in India in 1997, the brand has evolved from its foundation in honest shirts into a complete lifestyle offering across formalwear, casualwear, denim, celebration wear, and accessories. Peter England is committed to making quality and style accessible for every occasion.

About Aditya Birla Lifestyle Brands Limited

Aditya Birla Lifestyle Brands Limited (ABLBL), a part of the Aditya Birla Group, is a leading branded apparel company with a comprehensive portfolio of marquee lifestyle brands. As of June 30, 2026, the Company operates a retail footprint of ~5 million sq. ft., comprising 3,362 exclusive brand outlets, presence across 39,500+ multi-brand outlets, and over 6,500+ shop-in-shops in department stores across the country. The Company’s brand portfolio includes India’s most established and trusted names – Louis Philippe, Van Heusen, Allen Solly and Peter England – each with a legacy of over 25 years. These brands have consistently delivered sustained growth, driven by a sharp focus on design-led innovation, category expansion and operational excellence across product lines spanning formal, casual and occasion wear. ABLBL has built a strong presence in the innerwear and athleisure market through Van Heusen Innerwear, which has rapidly scaled its distribution network across India. The Company’s portfolio is further enhanced through strategic partnerships with leading international brands including Simon Carter, American Eagle and Reebok. American Eagle has emerged as one of India’s most preferred premium denim brands, while Reebok – transitioned under the Company’s management in 2022 – has expanded its footprint across multiple channels. Simon Carter continues to strengthen its position in the premium menswear segment through its distinctive design language and curated collections.

For Further information, please contact: Janet Arole | AVP & Head, Corporate Communications, janet.arole@abfrl.adityabirla.com.