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Flipkart Launches ‘Fashion Spotlight’ to Power India’s Emerging D2C Fashion Ecosystem

  • The D2C landscape for Fashion remains a key growth opportunity especially for those coming from T2+ regions

  • The launch phase of ‘Spotlight’ will begin with a select cohort of 50 fashion brands, that will be onboarded ahead of the 2025 festive season

  • Flipkart’s Fashion category attracts over 150 million monthly visits today, reflecting growing demand across consumer segments

Ahead of the 2025 festive season, Flipkart, India’s homegrown e-commerce marketplace, announced the launch of ‘Fashion Spotlight’, its flagship program to accelerate the growth of digital-first fashion brands, especially from T2+ regions. The D2C landscape for Fashion remains a key growth opportunity especially for those from T2+ regions, who may not have access to the right tools that can enable them to exponentially scale their business. Flipkart plans to scale the program 10X by year-end, reaching around 500 brands, and eventually expanding its reach to several more; turning Fashion Spotlight into a truly democratized launchpad for D2C fashion talent.

Flipkart Launches Fashion Spotlight to Power Indias Emerging D2C Fashion Ecosystem

This strategic rollout comes just in time for the festive season, traditionally the zenith of fashion demand. With 100+ D2C fashion brands already live on Flipkart Fashion today, the organisation is scaling its efforts to bring curated, trend-led selection to millions of shoppers across the country. Several D2C Fashion brands have already witnessed tremendous growth on Flipkart’s marketplace such as Rare Rabbit growing over 500% YoY, Miraggio at over 2300%, and Zouk recording over 200% growth in the past year.

With 1 in 3 customers on Flipkart making their first-ever purchase in Fashion, and purchase intent on the app growing 3X in the past year when compared to social media platforms, the Spotlight programme becomes a high-conversion environment for digital-first brands. Going beyond traditional accelerator models, the program integrates Flipkart’s full-stack capabilities, including video cataloguing, image search, Live Commerce, and virtual try-ons, to create a tech-powered, trust-led ecosystem where fashion entrepreneurs can scale with speed and confidence.

As part of this launch phase, 50 high-potential brands will be onboarded with a focus on those solving for specific customer needs including unique style, value, and regional relevance. Fashion Spotlight is focused on enabling early-stage fashion entrepreneurs who may have found initial traction among their immediate networks but are now seeking to scale and become brands in their own right.

Flipkart has observed that while product innovation is thriving across India’s fashion landscape from climate-conscious fabrics to regional design revival, the biggest bottleneck for many fashion entrepreneurs and D2C brands remains discovery and distribution. Spotlight aims to bridge that gap with Flipkart’s strengths in consumer data, merchandising expertise, and platform reach. The programme is structured around three key pillars:identifying real consumer need gaps, crafting differentiated product experiences, and delivering iterative feedback to improve assortment, visibility, and conversions. Spotlight offers a managed service layer, where Flipkart works closely with entrepreneurs to test product-market fit, iterate on catalogues using cohort feedback, and provide guaranteed visibility much like a VC would invest in early-stage innovation.

A Platform Built Around Brand Growth, Not Gatekeeping

  • The initiative empowers early‒stage fashion entrepreneurs with three key pillars:

  • Curated Discovery: Elevating standout products to a wide audience

  • Iterative Product Feedback: Fostering product-market fit through structured learnings

  • Guaranteed Visibility: Amplified exposure without commission or exclusivity constraints

Tapping Festive and Bharat Tailwinds

  • Flipkart’s move aligns with wider shifts in India’s fashion market:

  • Consumers are increasingly buying based on trend, identity, and comfort-not just deals.

  • Fashion is now a key growth driver: one in three new Flipkart users discovers the platform through fashion.

For more information, visit seller.flipkart.com/seller-blog/fashionSpotlight.

Speaking about the launch, Kunal Gupta, Vice President, Flipkart Fashion, said, “The D2C revolution in fashion is being driven by a new wave of entrepreneurs across India who are deeply rooted in regional cultures and consumer needs. Spotlight is built for them – for the brands building for hot climates, local use cases, and fabric innovations that deliver the right fashion to the people of Bharat. Our goal is to enable them in their zero-to-one journey, by supporting them till they achieve scale and product-market validation. This is not just about distribution, it is about building a generation of brands that are born digital, are local-first, and ready to serve the next 200 million fashion consumers.”

Fashion trends observed on Flipkart today:

  • Sarees are making a comeback with handloom, regional weaves becoming popular – 30X increase YoY in searches for “Latest Saree Designs”

  • 5X increase YoY in demand for Fusion Jewellery

  • Ready to Wear Sarees searches have seen a 10x jump in the last 18 months

As fashion consumption continues to evolve in India, Flipkart Fashion’s Spotlight programme marks a decisive step in Flipkart’s efforts to unlock new growth levers for both consumers and young fashion brands. By tapping into rising entrepreneurial energy across small towns and layering it with Flipkart’s platform strengths, Spotlight aims to become the springboard for India’s next big fashion brands.

About Flipkart

The Flipkart Group is one of India’s leading digital commerce entities and includes group companies Flipkart, Myntra, Flipkart Wholesale, Cleartrip and super.money.

Established in 2007, Flipkart has enabled millions of sellers, merchants, and small businesses to participate in Indias digital commerce revolution. With a registered user base of more than 500 million, Flipkarts marketplace offers over 150 million products across 80+ categories. Today, there are over 1.4 million sellers on the platform, including Shopsy sellers. With a focus on empowering and delighting every Indian by delivering value through technology and innovation, Flipkart has created thousands of jobs in the ecosystem while empowering generations of entrepreneurs and MSMEs. Flipkart has pioneered services such as Cash on Delivery, No Cost EMI, Easy Returns, and UPI. These customer-centric innovations focus on enhancing digital payment offerings for all customers while making online shopping more accessible and affordable for millions of Indians.

For more information, please write to media@flipkart.com.

Whatfix Launches AI Agents to Accelerate Business Outcomes for Enterprises

Whatfix, the global leader in digital adoption platforms (DAP), today announced the launch of Whatfix AI Agents embedded across its product suite to accelerate user productivity and drive business performance outcomes.

(L-R) Vara Kumar Namburu, Co-founder & Head of R&D and Solutions, Whatfix, and Khadim Batti, Co-founder & CEO, Whatfix

At the heart of these agents is ScreenSense, Whatfix’s proprietary AI technology that continuously interprets both the users’ context within an application and the user’s real-time intent. This understanding powers timely, relevant actions, whether it’s triggering an in-app guide, surfacing enterprise search results, displaying a DAP nudge, or invoking a third-party AI tool. By combining this contextual intelligence with the capabilities of Whatfix AI Agents, users can complete critical tasks faster and more accurately, staying focused on outcomes rather than navigating constant change across the enterprise software stack.

Gartner projects that software spending will grow at double-digit rates this year, driven by generative AI, yet most enterprises are still struggling to turn these investments into outcomes,” said Khadim Batti, CEO and Co-Founder of Whatfix. “As AI investments increase across the enterprise software stack, many organizations face a growing gap between software’s potential and real user impact. The layer of AI is adding to this rapid change, risking paralyzing users with too much change and too little guidance. Whatfix AI Agents flip that equation. They userize technology to adapt to the users context. This is not just about improving adoption. It is about enabling every user to succeed in an environment where systems are changing faster than people can keep up.

Whatfix AI Agents-Powered by ScreenSense:
The first three Whatfix AI Agents-Authoring, Insights, and Guidance-are now available across the Whatfix product suite, transforming how enterprises create, analyze, and guide in-app experiences. Powered by ScreenSense, they interpret application context and user intent in real time to deliver precise, high-value actions that accelerate work.

Authoring Agent: This agent removes friction from the content creation process by generating fully configured in-app experiences using simple natural language prompts, including pop-ups, walkthroughs, and advanced visibility rules. It enables anyone responsible for creating guidance content – such as training teams, and application or product owners – to publish at scale without needing any technical expertise.

Example: Make a tip appear when users land on a new dashboard. Just add a prompt in natural language and the Authoring Agent will generate the content, apply targeting logic, and style it automatically.

Insights Agent: This agent is a conversational interface that transforms how users interact with their product analytics data. It helps stakeholders across functions ask questions in natural language to uncover user behavior and drop-off patterns. These insights enable product owners to identify product features that need enhancements or better adoption.

Example: Ask a question like, “How is the new workflow performing” The Insights Agent returns a clear visual summary, highlights friction points, and recommends the next best step – all in seconds.

Guidance Agent: This agent delivers precise, AI-generated answers in the flow of work, distilling complex or lengthy knowledge into short, contextual summaries. It transforms how users access information, reducing time-to-answer and supporting dependency. It is designed to support enterprise users who need clarity fast, without switching tabs, reading long documents, or escalating to support.

Example: When a user searches for “return policy exceptions” while working in an order management system, the Guidance Agent instantly surfaces a concise summary from internal documentation, right within the application, with no context switch required.

Deeply embedded across Digital Adoption, Product Analytics, and Mirror, these agents form an intelligent layer that personalizes every user interaction-bridging the gap between enterprise systems and user success at scale.

Laurentiu BOGDAN, Operational Excellence Director at Servier, said, “With Whatfix AI, we’re heading towards a world where digital solutions will self-correct, self-improve, and personalize in real time, based on user intent. It’s not just about automation; it’s about making complexity disappear.”

What’s Next for Whatfix AI
Building on its leadership in Digital Adoption, Whatfix is expanding into AI-first products designed to deliver measurable business impact. The company will continue to advance its Userization philosophy-putting technology in service of the user-by integrating intelligent automation, real-time discovery, and adaptive training into its product suite. These innovations aim to create a unified, AI-powered experience where every user can succeed, no matter how fast enterprise systems evolve. This trajectory is reflected in industry recognition: Whatfix won the 2025 AI Breakthrough Award as “Overall AI-based Analytics Solution of the Year” and has been shortlisted for the AI Awards for “Best Use of AI for Learning,” with winners to be announced in September.

To explore Whatfix AI Agents and schedule a live demo, visit: whatfix.com/ai

About Whatfix
Whatfix is an AI platform advancing the “userization” of enterprise applications-empowering companies to maximize the ROI of their digital investments. Powered by a proprietary AI engine ScreenSense, Whatfix continuously interprets “Application Workflow Context” and “User Intent” to boost user productivity, ensure process compliance, and elevate user experience across applications. The product portfolio includes a Digital Adoption Platform (DAP), Mirror simulated application environments for hands-on training, and Product Analytics for no-code insights. With seven offices across the US, India, UK, Germany, Singapore, and Australia, Whatfix supports 700+ enterprises, including 80+ Fortune 500s like Shell, Schneider Electric, and UPS Supply Chain Solutions. Backed by investors such as Warburg Pincus, Softbank Vision Fund 2, Dragoneer, Peak XV Partners, Eight Roads, and Cisco Investments, software clicks with Whatfix.

For more information, visit the Whatfix website.

VinFast Makes Its Landmark Debut with Launch of Made-in-India Premium Electric Suvs VF 6 and VF 7

VinFast officially launched its much-anticipated premium electric SUVs in India: the Sleek, smart VF 6 and Sporty sophisticated VF 7. Marking VinFast’s first models introduced to India’s rapidly expanding EV market, the launch underscores the company’s strong commitment to supporting the nation’s transition toward sustainable, green mobility and positions VinFast as a key player in shaping India’s EV future.

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VinFast CEO Asia Mr. Pham Sanh Chau & Chief Engineer Mr. Vincent John Pendlebury unveil the all-new VF 6, a sleek premium SUV, starting at INR 16.49L

As Indian customers embrace EVs for their performance, sustainability, and technology, VinFast is stepping in with the VF 6 and VF 7, two premium SUVs designed to meet the unique expectations of Indian consumers. From range and comfort to advanced safety and features, these models are engineered to redefine premium EV ownership. With this launch, VinFast seeks to position itself as a catalyst in this transformation, combining international expertise with a strong local footprint to serve the diverse needs of Indian customers.

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Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, VinFast CEO Asia, introduced the all-new VinFast VF 7, a sporty and sophisticated premium SUV starting at an introductory price of INR 20.89 lakhs

On the launch, Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, said, “Today marks a historic milestone – the launch of cars that are not just made in India, but made by Indians, for Indians. We are introducing a complete electric mobility ecosystem, thoughtfully designed for Indian families. The VF 6 and VF 7 embody the perfect harmony of practical design, premium quality, and cutting-edge technology that Indian consumers aspire to. Backed by our state-of-the-art Thoothukudi facility and strong ecosystem partnerships, we are committed to supporting India’s vision of becoming a global leader in electric mobility.”

Premium Electric SUVs Designed for Indian Families
VinFast enters Indias dynamic electric vehicle market at an opportune time, with the segment experiencing unprecedented growth and consumer appetite for premium electric SUVs. The companys positioning focuses on delivering advanced features typically found in higher segments, cutting-edge safety technology, and comprehensive after-sales support to consumers seeking sustainable mobility solutions.

VinFast VF 6
Inspired by philosophy of ‘The Duality in Nature‘, VF 6, a premium compact electric SUV combines contrasting qualities of fun and sophistication, technology and human focus, to deliver an exceptional blend of performance and features.

The feature loaded electric SUV offers a 59.6 kWh battery pack with 25-minute fast charging (10- 70%), ARAI certified range of upto 468 kms. 2,730 mm long wheelbase and 190 mm ground clearance are ideal for Indian family needs.

Ample variant choices for customers – The VF 6 Premium SUV will be offered in two interior trim colours and three variants – Earth, Wind and Wind Infinity.

  • VF 6 Earth: 130 kW peak power, 250 Nm peak torque, independent rear suspension for utmost comfort. Multiple drive modes to suit individual driving preferences and moods. With all black interiors, 12.9 inch infotainment screen, automatic AC, powered driver seat and cruise control are all standard equipment. Another stand out feature is the piano inspired gear selector that comes with dedicated drive mode button, electronic parking brake and auto hold functionality.

  • VF 6 Wind: 150 kW peak power, 310 Nm peak torque, 0-100 kmph in just 8.9 seconds gives exhilarating performance. With Mocca brown interiors, premium vegan leather upholstery, 8-way powered driver seat adjustment and front seats ventilation, dual-zone AC with air ionizer and PM 1.0 air filtration will keep the families in comfort. An 8-speaker audio system, coloured HUD projection, Adaptive Cruise Control along with full ADAS Level 2 suit including front and rear auto emergency braking, and 18-inch machine-cut wheels are other prominent additions.

  • VF 6 Wind Infinity: Adds a large edge to edge panoramic fixed glass roof.

  • ARAI Certified Range: Earth (468 km), Wind (463 km)

Standard Features on VF 6: Auto LED Projector Headlamps with auto levelling, Signature lights in front and rear, Acoustic Windshield and glass roof, Reverse Link ORVM, Keyless entry and go, Power adjustment for driver seat, Auto AC, All windows auto up and auto down with anti-pinch, Bezel less auto dimming IRVM, ABS, EBD, BA, ESC, TCS, HSA, ROM, ESS, All disc brakes, Rain sensing wipers, 7 Airbags, dTPMS, 360 degree SVM, Cruise Control, 12.9 inch infotainment screen, wireless AACP, 6 Speakers, multiple drive and regen modes, Connected car Tech.

VinFast VF 7
The VF 7 embodies ‘The Universe is Asymmetrical’ design philosophy, fusing bold exteriors with premium interior. VF 7 is a large SUV with length exceeding 4.5 mtrs and 2,840 mm wheelbase. It will be available in two battery packs and five variants – Earth, Wind, Wind Infinity, Sky and Sky Infinity. The car also has two interior color options and two drivetrain options: FWD and AWD configurations.

  • VF 7 Earth: 59.6 kWh battery pack, motor producing 130 kW peak power and generating 250 Nm peak torque. Charging time of just 24 minutes from 10% to 70%. Sporty black vegan leather upholstery, coloured HUD projection, rain-sensing wipers, dual zone air conditioning, powered driver seat, cruise control and large 19 inch alloy wheels are all standard. The piano inspired gear selector that comes with dedicated drive mode button, electronic parking brake and auto hold functionality is sporty and sophisticated.

  • VF 7 Wind: Gets a larger 70.8 kWh battery pack, max. power of 150 kW from PMSM motor, 310 Nm peak torque, able to touch 100 kmph from stand still in just 9.5 seconds.28-minute fast charging (10-70%), 19-inch alloy wheels painted in sporty black colour, powered tailgate, 8-way power driver seat adjustment, front ventilated seats, 8-speaker audio system, Adaptive Cruise Control along with full ADAS Level 2 suit including an advanced driver distraction warning with a driver monitoring system camera mounted on the steering. Premium mocca brown vegan leather interiors adds to the aura of the car.

  • VF 7 Sky: All the features of VF 7 Wind plus a Dual motor setup generating combined peak power of 260 kW and 500 Nm peak torque, this gives AWD capabilities to the car and can touch 100 kmph in just 5.8 secs.

  • VF 7 Wind Infinity and VF 7 Sky Infinity: Adds a large edge-to-edge panoramic fixed glass roof.

  • ARAI Certified Range: Earth (438 km), Wind (532 km), Sky (510 km)

Standard Features on VF 7 : Large 19 inch alloy wheels, heated ORVM with auto dimming and memory functions, flush door handles, coloured HUD projection, a C-Type 90 W USB port to charge electronic gadgets and even a dual zone AC. Auto LED Projector Headlamps with auto levelling, Signature lights in front and rear, Acoustic Windshield and glassroof, Reverse Link ORVM, Keyless entry and go, Power adjustment for driver seat, Auto AC, All windows auto up and auto down with anti pinch, Bezeless auto dimming IRVM, ABS, EBD, BA, ESC, TCS, HSA, ROM, ESS, All disc brakes, Rain sensing wipers, 7 Airbags, dTPMS, 360 degree SVM, Cruise Control, 12.9 inch infotainment screen, wireless AACP, 6 Speakers, multiple drive and regen modes, Connected car Tech.

Comprehensive Ecosystem Partnerships Drive Market Entry
VinFast has built a robust ecosystem for delightful ownership experience. The company has partnered with leading banks and financial institutions to offer tailored financing solutions. Strategic collaborations with RoadGrid, myTVS, and Global Assure are helping establish a nationwide network for charging and after-sales services. Furthering its commitment to sustainability, VinFast has also joined hands with BatX Energies for advanced battery recycling and create a circular battery value chain. Together, these initiatives reflect company’s vision of shaping a greener future through responsible and innovative practices.

National Dealer Network and Made-in-India Manufacturing
VinFast India is rapidly expanding its presence across India with planned 35 dealer touchpoints and 26 Workshops across 27 cities by end of CY2025. These include metros and emerging EV hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kochi and Lucknow.

Core to company’s India strategy is its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, where both the VF 6 and VF 7 will be assembled. The plant aligns perfectly with Indias vision of becoming a global manufacturing and export hub. The facilitys strategic location near the Port positions it ideally for serving both domestic demand and export markets.

Global Experience, Local Commitment
VinFast brings extensive international experience to India, with successful market entries across the United States, Canada, Europe, Philippines, Indonesia, and the Middle East. The companys global presence spans across three continents, reflecting its commitment to driving the worldwide electric vehicle revolution.

VinFast has achieved remarkable success in its home country of Vietnam, becoming the countrys leading automotive manufacturer. The company has earned international acknowledgment for its rapid growth and innovation.

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product line-up today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses.

VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe and Asia.

Fast&Up Turns 10: Celebrating A Decade of Good Nutrition

Fast&Up, India’s leading active nutrition brand, is celebrating its 10th birthday with a milestone that truly Feels 10 on 10. Over the past decade, the brand has fuelled a movement of good health and fitness, providing high-quality nutrition and hydration solutions to India and 40 + countries worldwide.

Fast&Up 10th Birthday sale

Marking A Decade of Good Nutrition, Fast&Up is thanking its community with a special 10th Birthday Sale. Going live on 10th September 2025 at 12:00 am, the sale offers a flat 50% off sitewide – in.fastandup.com, inviting customers to celebrate with their favourite nutrition partner.

Varun Khanna, Co-Founder, Fast&Up, said, “Completing 10 years is a proud moment for all of us at Fast&Up. What started as a vision to make clean, effective nutrition accessible to everyone has today grown into a global movement, trusted by millions across India and beyond. This journey wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our community. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to innovating and bringing world-class nutrition solutions for every need.”

Actor and Fast&Up brand ambassador Varun Dhawan shared, “Fitness has always been a big part of my life, and Fast&Up has been a trusted companion in that journey. To see the brand complete 10 years and grow from India to over 40 countries is truly inspiring. I’m proud to be part of this celebration and excited for the many more milestones ahead.”

With products spanning energy, hydration, immunity, everyday wellness, and performance nutrition, Fast&Up has become the go-to brand for athletes, fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals. Its unique effervescent technology and plant-based formulations have helped redefine nutrition for the modern consumer’s everyday needs.

As the brand enters its next decade, the focus remains on empowering healthier lifestyles with solutions that are effective, accessible, and enjoyable.

About Fast&Up

Fullife Healthcare Pvt Ltd, the market leader in nutrition and immunity, was founded in 2011 and is one of Indias largest effervescent nutrition manufacturers. Fullife is the parent company of Aeronutrix Sports Products Private Limited, whose flagship brand Fast&Up was brought to India in 2015 under their active lifestyle segment. Fast&Up products are backed by innovative Swiss technology and effervescent science with an in-house R&D center and EU-compliant manufacturing units. Fast&Up is dedicated to delivering innovative products for active living across its segments, making it the nutrition & immunity choice for many, including several professional sports athletes. It is the official nutrition partner for Bengaluru FC for ISL 2021. Fast&Up is the only brand with informed choice and informed sport certification across its flagship products. After building an established presence in India and Italy (2018), the brand is expanding its reach to tap other European co countries and the American market. 

House of Soundarya: The Perfect Union of Ayurveda and Modern Science

India has always turned to Ayurveda for radiant, healthy skin – saffron for glow, kumkumadi oil for balance, and ghee for nourishment. But modern Indian families face new challenges: relentless sun, pollution, and urban stress. House of Soundarya was born to bridge these worlds, creating skincare that unites the wisdom of Ayurveda with the precision of modern K-beauty science, tailored especially for Indian skin.

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Monisha gururani, Founder of House of Soundarya

The journey began with founder Monisha Gururani, a mother searching for safe skincare for her young son, a professional golfer exposed to hours of sun. Troubled by the lack of gentle, toxin-free options, Monisha set out to craft her own – blends that would be pure, effective, and free from synthetic fragrance. What started as a mother’s resolve has grown into a brand now embraced nationwide.

Each formulation begins with Ayurvedic botanicals like saffron, aloe vera, licorice, and 100x washed A2 ghee – known for their calming and restorative powers. These are elevated with plant-based actives such as niacinamide, ceramides, and Vitamin C (SAP), widely proven in K-beauty to brighten, protect, and refine skin. The result is a hybrid system of care – gentle enough for teens, effective enough for adults, and especially suited for Indian skin that demands both repair and resilience.

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Pushp ahaan is adopted a school in haldwani to give quality education to young and deserving kids

But Monisha’s vision extends beyond beauty. Through the Pushp Ahaan Foundation, House of Soundarya has adopted a school in Uttarakhand, providing children with sports gear, shoes, library books, and uniforms, while also supporting families displaced by floods and natural disasters.

On Amazon India, the brand continues to receive glowing feedback. Customers call the 24K Gold Luxe Glow Kumkumadi Serum “liquid gold for the skin,” praising how its saffron-rich blend reduces dullness, softens fine lines, and delivers a natural glow without heaviness. Many reviews highlight that it feels indulgent yet safe, making it a product families keep returning to.

For Monisha, every jar and bottle is more than skincare. It’s a promise – of purity, of science backed by tradition, and of a brand that gives back.

House of Soundarya is available nationwide on Amazon India and at www.HouseofSoundarya.com.

48 Players from 11 Nations Gear Up for HCL Squash Indian Tour in Mumbai

Squash will take centre stage in Mumbai this September when the HCL Squash Indian Tour 2 comes to the Otters Club from September 8-12, 2025. The five-day tournament, backed by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, will see 48 players from 11 countries compete for world ranking points and equal prize money of US$ 9,000 each for men and women.

For Indian squash, it is another chance to showcase its growing strength on home soil. The opening leg of the Tour in Jaipur earlier this year drew attention for its competitive depth, and Mumbai is expected to raise the bar further with a mix of established stars and rising challengers.

Squash gains global momentum
Squash has long been one of the world’s most demanding racket sports, played in more than 185 countries by around 20 million people. Its inclusion in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics has given players a fresh incentive and federations a reason to step up investment.

Egypt continues to dominate the sport, but Asia’s influence is spreading fast through nations like Japan, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. India is also making steady progress. With six players currently inside the PSA Top 100 and a track record of Commonwealth and Asian Games medals, the country is building a pipeline of talent that can compete with the best. The challenge now is to provide regular, world-class competition – and that is where the HCL Squash Indian Tour has become a game-changer.

HCL’s long-term push into sport
Beyond squash, HCL has backed chess, bridge, and grassroots initiatives in a bid to give Indian athletes more platforms to compete internationally. But its partnership with the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI), launched in 2016, has been an ambitious sporting project.

Together, the two organisations have hosted more than 40 tournaments, benefitting over 1,000 Indian players across categories. Many of those athletes have since made the jump to the PSA World Tour, underlining the impact of sustained investment.

The HCL Squash Indian Tour is not about one-off events – it is about creating continuity and building pathways for Indian athletes,” said Rajat Chandolia, AVP and Head of Brand at HCL Group. “Since 2016, we have partnered with SRFI to host more than 40 tournaments, benefitting over a thousand players across categories. With the support of SAI and the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, we can now offer world-class competition at home, reducing the barriers our players face in chasing international ranking points. Our long-term vision is clear – to help India produce champions who can compete at the very highest level and, with squash now part of the 2028 Olympics, make their mark on the biggest sporting stage of all.”

Mumbai leg promises world-class competition
The draw in Mumbai brings together players from Egypt, Malaysia, Japan, France, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, Kuwait, Iran, Malta, New Zealand, and India. Among the names to watch are Veer Chotrani (World No. 56) and Akanksha Salunkhe (World No. 69) for India, while international interest will centre on Amina El Rihany of Egypt (World No. 63) and Enora Villard of France (World No. 75).

The diversity of the field is what excites the organisers most.

Cyrus Poncha, Secretary General of the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI) added, “The Mumbai leg of the HCL Squash Indian Tour is another important step in strengthening India’s squash ecosystem. These tournaments are possible only because of the generous support of the Sports Authority of India and the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, who have sanctioned the prize money and backed our efforts. Equal prize money for men and women highlights the growing support for the sport and attracts top national and international competitors. We are proud to partner with HCL and SAI in delivering world-class events that give our players invaluable experience.”

A city ready for more
For Mumbai, a city used to hosting international cricket, football, and tennis, world-class squash is a natural addition. The Otters Club, with its history and atmosphere, will provide a fitting stage for what is expected to be five days of intense competition.

And for Indian squash, the timing could not be better. With the sport now Olympic-bound, every opportunity to host international-standard events is an investment in future medal hopes.

HCL and SRFI are betting on consistency: year after year, more tournaments, bigger prize purses, stronger fields. If that formula holds, Mumbai 2025 may be remembered not just as another leg of the Tour, but as another step in India’s march towards becoming a genuine global force in squash.

About HCL
Founded in 1976 as one of India’s original IT garage start-ups, HCL is a pioneer of modern computing with many firsts to its credit, including the introduction of the 8-bit microprocessor-based computer in 1978 well before its global peers. Today, the HCL enterprise has a presence across varied sectors that include technology, healthcare and talent management solutions and comprises three companies – HCL Infosystems, HCLTech and HCL Healthcare. The enterprise generates annual revenues of over US$14 billion with 223,000 employees operating across 60 countries. For further information, visit www.hcl.com.

About SRFI
The Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI) was formed to oversee the promotion and development of the sport in India. The SRFI has more than 24 state associations and affiliated units with its headquarters in Chennai. The federation is affiliated to World Squash Federation / Asian Squash Federation, Indian Olympic Association & recognized by Government of India. SRFI has been forging ahead with dynamic plans ensuring promotion, development, and performance of the sport at all levels.

On behalf of HCL:
Alisha Bisherwal- mailto:alisha.a@shivnadarfoundation.com%20/%208447821231
Shruti Saxena- shruti-saxena@shivnadarfoundation.com / 9654356487

Sony India Amplifies the Party with New Products Under ULT POWER SOUND Series

Sony India today unveiled the second-generation lineup of ULT POWER SOUND series. The new range consists of wireless party speakers ULT TOWER 9 & ULT TOWER 9AC, wireless bluetooth speakers ULT FIELD 5 & ULT FIELD 3 and wireless dual mic, ULTMIC1. All speakers in the series include the ULT button for powerful bass, providing signature sound quality by enhancing the music with one or two different sound modes.

ULT TOWER 9, ULT TOWER 9AC, ULT FIELD 5, ULT FIELD 3 and ULTMIC1

Sunil Nayyar, Managing Director, Sony India, expressed his excitement at the introduction of new products under ULT POWER SOUND saying “We are committed to consistently delivering innovative audio products that transform the listening experience for our customers. The latest launch of the ULT POWER SOUND series reflects this vision, offering powerful bass and truly immersive sound.” Speaking about the association with Karan Aujla, he added, “We’re thrilled to have Karan Aujla onboard as the brand ambassador for the ULT range. His strong connection with the youth perfectly resonates with our brand ethos. Together, we aim to bring the exhilarated experience of live performances to every listener, letting them truly feel the power of music.”

Sony India’s Audio brand ambassador Karan Aujla said, “I’m exhilarated to be part of Sony’s revolutionary ULT POWER SOUND lineup. The par excellence audio range from this series transforms the way music is experienced, delivering deep, soul-stirring bass and crystal-clear sound. Whether I’m travelling or even at home, the ULT POWER SOUND products captures every detail and enhances the sound quality like never before.”

ULT TOWER 9- the power of Live-Venue sound in your home
The ULT TOWER comes in two versions – ULT TOWER 9 and ULT TOWER 9AC, both designed to transform any space into a high-energy entertainment hub. Each model is packed with ULT POWER SOUND, selectable bass modes (ULT1 and ULT2), it brings immersive 360 Party Sound and 360 Party Light that energize any space with festival-like vibes. Whether you’re singing karaoke with the mic, jamming on a guitar, or enhancing your favourite shows with the TV Sound Booster, the ULT TOWER 9 adapts effortlessly to your entertainment needs. Designed for convenience, it includes a built-in handle and casters for easy portability, a water-resistant top panel for durability, and a built-in power bank to keep your devices charged. With Sound Field Optimization that adjusts to ambient noise and the ability to connect up-to 100 compatible speakers through Party Connect.

*Buy ULT TOWER 9 and get a wireless dual mic (ULTMIC1) worth INR 19,990*

What sets ULT TOWER 9 and ULT TOWER 9AC apart

  • ULT TOWER 9: Offers an impressive 25-hour battery life with quick charging, making it perfect for extended unplugged parties.

  • ULT TOWER 9AC: Delivers the same powerful sound and features in a plug-and-play format, ideal for all-day celebrations at home or on the go.

ULT FIELD 5- Compact yet powerful
Take your favourite tunes on the go with the ULT FIELD 5 – a compact speaker packed with powerful bass. Designed for convenience with a multi-way strap, its waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof, making it perfect for any adventure. Plus, its long battery life keeps the music going longer. Designed for life on the move, the Sony ULT FIELD 5 packs powerful bass into a rugged, compact speaker that’s ready for any adventure. Featuring ULT POWER SOUND, it delivers deep, enhanced audio, while the 10 Band Custom Equalizer lets you fine-tune your sound to match your vibe. With up to 25 hours of battery life, a multi-way strap, and an IP67 rating for water, dust, shock, and saltwater resistance, the ULT FIELD 5 is made to perform wherever you go. Sound Field Optimization ensures clear playback even in noisy environments, and with Multi-Device Connection, you can easily switch between two devices for seamless music control. Whether you’re hiking, chilling at the beach, or hosting an impromptu party, connect up-to 100 compatible speakers via Party Connect and control your experience with the Sony | Sound Connect App-because great sound should never stay still.

ULT FIELD 3 – Powerful sound. Make it your own
Compact, powerful, and designed to move with you, the Sony ULT FIELD 3 delivers deep, punchy bass with ULT POWER SOUND. With up to 24 hours of battery life, a multi-way strap, and an IP67-rated water and dust-resistant build, it’s your perfect companion on the go. Whether youre fine-tuning your audio with the 10 Band Custom Equalizer, enjoying optimized sound through Sound Field Optimization, or connecting seamlessly between two devices with Multi-Device Connection, the ULT FIELD 3 adapts to your lifestyle effortlessly. Create a larger-than-life audio experience anytime by linking up to 100 compatible speakers using Party Connect, and control it all easily with the Sony | Sound Connect App. The ULT FIELD 3 proves that powerful sound can go wherever you do and sound exactly how you want it.

ULTMIC1 – Turn up the volume on your voice
Bring your voice to life with the ULTMIC1, the perfect wireless microphone for unforgettable performances-whether it’s karaoke night, a jam session, or a spontaneous sing-along. Engineered to deliver clear, powerful vocals with minimal background noise, the ULTMIC1 ensures your voice shines with rich, dynamic clarity. Featuring Duet Assist, it automatically balances mic volume during dual performances, so no voice gets lost in the mix. With Plug and Play connectivity, simply connect the dongle to your ULT Party Speaker’s mic jack and start performing instantly. Enjoy up to 20 hours of mic playtime, fast charging that gives 120 minutes in just 10 minutes and convenient USB charging for hassle-free power-ups anywhere. Compact, responsive, and performance-ready, the ULTMIC1 keeps the music flowing and the energy high, so the spotlight always stays on you.

Availability and Price
The new ULT POWER SOUND products (ULT TOWER 9, ULT TOWER 9AC, ULT FIELD 5, ULT FIELD 3, and ULTMIC1) are available across Sony retail stores – Sony Center and Sony Exclusive, www.ShopatSC.com portal, major electronic stores and other e-commerce portals in India.

As a special launch offer, customer purchasing the ULT TOWER 9 and ULT TOWER 9AC, will get a Sony Wireless MIC worth Rs.19,990/- (MRP)

Model

Best Buy (in INR)

Availability

Color

ULT TOWER 9

84,990/-

Available now

Black

ULT TOWER 9AC

69,990/-

Available now

Black

ULT FIELD 5

24,990/-

Available now

Off White and Black

ULT FIELD 3

17,990/-

Available now

Forest Grey, Off White and Black

ULTMIC1

14,990/-

Available now

Black

ABOUT “FOR THE MUSIC”
Sony established the brand platform “For The Music” for its premier consumer and professional audio products and services. With “For The Music,” Sony is affirming itself as the premier audio brand connecting music creators and consumers, aiming to create authentic music experiences and transcend emotion for fans by supporting creator vision over everything.

About Sony India Pvt. Ltd.
Sony India Private Limited (Sony India), a private limited company with its ultimate holding company as Sony Group Corporation, Japan, has established itself as a premium brand in various product categories including television, digital imaging, personal audio, home entertainment, gaming, car audio, and professional solutions. The company places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and maintains high standards in sales and services. Sony also prioritizes environmental sustainability, aiming to achieve a zero environmental footprint throughout the lifecycle of its products and business activities to contribute to a healthier and enriched life for all of humanity and future generations.

Group 108 Receives Part CC for Grandthum, Greater Noida West

Noida-based realty player, Group 108, has received Part CC for its flagship project, Grandthum, in Greater Noida West. This milestone paves the way for over 1300 customers to begin receiving possession, reaffirming Group 108’s commitment to fulfilling its delivery promise and quality execution. Spread across 23 acres (approx.), Grandthum brings together signature office spaces, high-street retail, multiplex, dining, and leisure zones into a unified ecosystem. Since its launch in 2019, the development has emerged as a landmark in NCR’s commercial real estate landscape.

Its twin signature office towers (G+34 and G+30 floors) come with Sky Deck on the 27th and 28th floors, offering panoramic views of the region. Adding to its appeal is a vibrant 8 lakh sq. ft.(approx.) high-street retail promenade with more than 100 outlets, a five-screen multiplex with 900 seating capacity, and zones dedicated to QSRs, High Energy bars, and experiential leisure.

One of Grandthum’s most distinctive highlight is its Yacht Garden, an open-air zone with an approx two-acre water body, landscaped sit-outs, and lush green promenade designed to elevate the visitor experience. The project also offers multi-level car parking, three-tier security, high-speed escalators, and uninterrupted power backup, ensuring convenience and comfort at every touchpoint.

Dr. Amish Bhutani, Managing Director, Group 108, said, “Receiving the Part CC for Grandthum and offering possession to more than 1,300 customers is a proud achievement for us. From the very outset, our vision was to create a development that is not only limited to real estate but becomes a complete ecosystem for work, retail, and leisure. This milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to quality, execution excellence, and our promise to deliver spaces that create long-term value for our customers.”

Mr. Sanchit Bhutani, Managing Director, Group 108, added, “Securing Part CC further strengthens Grandthum’s position as one of NCR’s most prominent commercial developments, at a time when Noida-Greater Noida is witnessing strong interest from global businesses and MNCs. With world-class office infrastructure, a dynamic retail promenade, and lifestyle-driven offerings, Grandthum is well-placed to cater to the evolving needs of enterprises and communities alike. This is not just a regulatory milestone-it is the realization of our vision to establish a future-ready business and lifestyle hub for the region.”

With over 60 marquee national and international brands on board, Grandthum is cementing its position as a premier destination for shopping, recreation, and community experiences. The project is also IGBC Platinum Pre-Certified, underscoring Group 108’s commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, and responsible development.

With its prime location near the upcoming Jewar International Airport, excellent connectivity to Noida, Delhi, and Ghaziabad, and proximity to a large catchment of over a few lakh families, Grandthum is set to emerge as one of NCR’s most vibrant and future-ready commercial destinations.

Bigger, Better, Bespoke – Inside the Luxury Housing Boom of Delhi NCR

Delhi-NCR has emerged as the epicentre of India’s luxury housing boom, with record sales underscoring the appetite for premium living. What’s unfolding, however, goes far beyond square footage. Buyers are seeking homes that reflect their individuality, aspirations, and evolving lifestyles. The emphasis has shifted from sheer size to experiences curated through design, personalisation, and exclusivity. The notion of “Bigger, Better, Bespoke” is not just a trend but a defining philosophy, capturing how luxury homes are being reimagined as sanctuaries of identity, comfort, and legacy.

Delhi NCR luxury living: modern designs, spacious layouts, and bespoke elegance

According to a CBRE-ASSOCHAM report, Indias luxury housing segment witnessed an 85% year-on-year growth in the first half of 2025, with nearly 7,000 high-end residential units sold across top cities. Delhi-NCR led this surge, clocking sales of approximately 4,000 luxury units (a threefold annualised increase), accounting for 57% of the total luxury segment.

Yukti Nagpal, Director, Gulshan Group, says, “The idea of luxury has moved beyond possessions, making it about experiences, comfort, and a sense of belonging. Micro-markets like the Noida Expressway have become natural choices for elite buyers, due to world-class infrastructure, proximity to business hubs, and access to curated lifestyle amenities. At Gulshan, we see luxury as the harmony of meticulous design and lived experience, where every detail, from location to layout, adds to the aura of exclusivity. For HNIs and UHNIs, this blend of convenience and identity is what truly defines modern luxury.”

A new class of buyers is driving the luxury housing boom in NCR: HNIs, UHNIs, young entrepreneurs, and global citizens, who view homes not just as assets but as legacies and lifestyle statements. The demand now centres on customisation and personalisation, whether through modular interiors, private lounges, wellness zones, or smart home integrations.

In Gurgaon, addresses like Golf Course Road, Southern Peripheral Road, Dwarka Expressway, and New Gurgaon are emerging as epicentres of aspirational living, drawing buyers with world-class projects and lifestyle ecosystems. Noida and Greater Noida are seeing a parallel rise, with sectors such as 150 becoming hubs of integrated luxury townships. Meanwhile, emerging markets like Siddharth Vihar offer premium developments where heritage meets modern luxury.

Dr. Gautam Kanodia, Founder, KREEVA and Kanodia Group, says, “Gurugram’s luxury story is about micro-markets that redefine exclusivity. Golf Course Road remains iconic, but the rise of Southern Peripheral Road and New Gurgaon is creating fresh opportunities for bespoke living. Buyers here are global in mindset; they want curated amenities, wellness-driven spaces, and homes that rival international standards. Thus, Gurugram, with its evolving micro-markets, is emerging as the address of choice for aspirational and high-value buyers who want a lifestyle ecosystem.”

Ishaan Singh, Director, AIPL, says, “Luxury housing in Delhi NCR propels as the city, especially micro markets mature into a destination of choice for professionals, entrepreneurs, and global Indians. As developers, we believe luxury is a confluence of curated design and services that elevate everyday experiences. Thus, the demand here isn’t impulsive; it’s a conscious decision to invest in homes that are future-ready, lifestyle-rich, and exclusive.”

Another report by JLL showed a 9% jump in sales for luxury homes priced Rs. 5 crore and above in Delhi-NCR in the first six months of 2025, with 5,168 units sold, or 65% of all luxury housing sales nationwide. This surge reflects a deeper aspiration for quality living, prioritising spaciousness, privacy and world-class amenities among the affluent, young professionals and expatriate Indians.

Salil Kumar, Director- Marketing and Business Management, CRC Group, says, “Infrastructure is the invisible backbone of luxury living, and Noida-Greater Noida is a prime example of how it shapes real estate. With expressways, expanding metro lines, and the upcoming Noida International Airport, the region is evolving into a hub where connectivity meets convenience. For luxury buyers, time is the ultimate currency; they seek homes that minimise commute and maximise lifestyle access. This is why infrastructure-rich corridors are magnets for homeowners, as they offer not just an apartment but an ecosystem of accessibility, efficiency, and elevated living.”

Developers in NCR are reshaping their playbooks to meet the rising expectations of luxury buyers, scaling up with larger, more curated projects that are positioned as lifestyle destinations rather than just residences. International design collaborations, sustainability-focused practices, and handpicked amenities are becoming the norm, ensuring every detail reflects exclusivity. A case in point is Prateek Group’s project Prateek Canary in Noida Sector-150, which embodies the idea of low-density living, overlooking lush greens that reflect a deep understanding of modern, multi-generational lifestyles. On the other hand, Prateek Grand City in Siddharth Vihar goes beyond being a residential township to create a self-sufficient environment where families can truly thrive.

Therefore, the notion of “Bigger, Better, Bespoke” wave reflects a deeper shift: buyers are investing in lifestyles, identities, and experiences that endure beyond generations. From Gurgaon’s evolving micro-markets to Noida’s infrastructure-led growth, the region is setting new benchmarks in aspirational living.

Transforming Urban Mobility with Trust: Namma Yatri Partners with Truecaller for Enhanced Customer Experience

  • Localized Call Reason in Kannada strengthens customer trust and support experience.

  • With Truecaller’s Customer Experience Solution, Namma Yatri is elevating the ride-booking experience by enabling users and drivers to connect through trusted, verified, and contextual communication.

Namma Yatri, India’s first ride-hailing app built on an open network and known for its commitment to transparency and fairness, has announced a strategic partnership with Truecaller, the global leader in verified communication, to power seamless and trusted interactions between drivers, riders, and support agents.

With mobility being an essential everyday service, Namma Yatri recognizes that trusted communication is the backbone of timely pickups, reliable support, and smooth coordination between riders and auto drivers.

In an industry where every second counts, Namma Yatri is elevating the way drivers, riders, and support teams communicate by leveraging Truecaller’s Customer Experience Solution, including Verified Business Caller ID, Business Profile, Video Caller ID, and most notably, localized Call Reason. Along with this, they are also leveraging Truecaller’s One Tap-OTP-Less Login and SDK integration for vernacular number verification pop-ups, ensuring secure, seamless, and hyperlocal onboarding for users in Tier II cities where Namma Yatri offers its ride services. Through this, the platform is transforming critical customer touchpoints into secure, branded, and contextual conversations.

With Truecaller Customer Experience Solution, Namma Yatri customers can now see the brand’s name, logo, and verification badge when receiving a call, removing ambiguity and significantly increasing calling efficiency and user experience.

What truly sets this partnership apart is the platform’s focus on hyperlocal engagement. For its customer support use case, Namma Yatri has introduced a Kannada Call Reason, which appears on the user’s phone even before the call is answered.

This simple, contextual phrase fosters instant recognition, reassures users that the call is legitimate, and reflects Namma Yatri’s deep connection with its local user base. Adding to this, the One Tap-OTP-Less Login and SDK-powered number verification screen also features Kannada prompts, making onboarding intuitive and accessible. By communicating in the language of the customer, the brand is enhancing both trust and accessibility.

Commenting on the collaboration, Rajiv Ravindran, Director Cx & Growth, Namma Yatri, said, “Language plays a huge role in building trust. With Truecaller’s localized Call Reason feature, we can connect with our riders in a way that’s both intuitive and comforting. It’s a small change that makes a big difference.”

Speaking about the partnership, Priyam Bose, Global Head, GTM & Developer Products, Truecaller, said, “We are thrilled to support Namma Yatri in their mission to build a rider-first, transparent experience. Their use of regional language Call Reasons and SDK-driven secure verification is a perfect example of contextual communication done right, building trust at the very first ring.”

Additionally, Namma Yatri uses Truecaller’s Video Caller ID, allowing users to view a branded video or personalized message even before answering the call, boosting instant recognition and user engagement. It also leverages the Business Profile feature to showcase its brand identity, core values, contact details, and relevant links, reinforcing trust, authenticity, and transparency in every interaction.

This collaboration positions Namma Yatri as a frontrunner in using tech-enabled, communication experience to power India’s mobility ecosystem, making rides not just convenient, but personalized and secure.

Truecaller’s Customer Experience Solution is trusted by more than 3,000+ businesses globally. It delivers enhanced communication capabilities that promote brand recognition, build trust, and safeguard customers from scams and fraud.

About Namma Yatri

Namma Yatri, a driver-first, zero-commission mobility platform, continues to redefine urban commuting by placing transparency, affordability, and empowerment at the core of its operations. Since its launch, the platform has completed over 9.8 crore rides and rapidly grown into a trusted choice for both drivers and riders, offering a reliable and ethical alternative in the ride-hailing ecosystem.

What makes Namma Yatri stand out is its 100% driver earnings model – ensuring drivers keep the entire fare without any commission cuts. This not only improves driver livelihoods but also encourages better service for passengers. Built on the ONDC open network and supported by the Government of Karnataka, Namma Yatri has emerged as a commuter favorite across cities in Karnataka.

Key Highlights:

  • Over 9.8 crore rides completed

  • Zero Commission – 100% driver earnings

  • Transparent Pricing for commuters

  • Driver Empowerment at scale

  • Tech-Driven, open network innovation

About Truecaller

We enable safe and relevant conversations between people and make it efficient for businesses to connect with consumers. Fraud and unwanted communication are endemic to digital economies, especially in emerging markets. We are on a mission to build trust in communication. Truecaller is an essential part of everyday communication for over 383 million active users, with more than a billion downloads since launch and close to 50 billion unwanted calls identified and blocked in 2021. Headquartered in Stockholm since 2009, we are a co-founder-led, entrepreneurial company, with a highly experienced management team. Truecaller has been listed on Nasdaq Stockholm since October, 2021. Visit truecaller.com for more information.

For more information, please visit: business.truecaller.com