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MSI Launches 'September Promotions 2026' with Exclusive Channel Offers and Extended Financing Benefits

  • 1-year extended warranty worth INR 4,999 on Modern series via offline channels

  • Flexible EMI options up to 24 months via Bajaj Finserv & Pine Labs

  • Special pricing across Gaming and Thin & Light laptops on Flipkart

 

MSI, a global leader in gaming, content creation, and business & productivity laptops, today announced its September Promotion 2026 campaign, offering customers enhanced value through extended warranty coverage, flexible financing, and special pricing across its laptop portfolio. Running from September 4th to September 24th, 2026, the campaign spans offline retail partners, including Croma and Vijay Sales, as well as Flipkart online.

 

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MSI September Offers 2026


Commenting on the campaign, Mr. James Sung, NB Sales Director, MSI said, “Our September Promotion 2026 reflects MSI’s continued focus on making premium computing more accessible to our customers. With a free warranty extension on our Modern series, extended EMI options, and attractive pricing across our gaming and thin-and-light lineups, we aim to deliver greater value and a seamless ownership experience across our retail and online network.”


For more information on the offers: www.msi.gm/S9402F90


Offline Channel Offers
1. 1-Year Free Warranty Extension (worth INR 4,999)
Customers purchasing MSI Modern series laptops through offline channels, including Croma and Vijay Sales, will be eligible for a 1-year free warranty extension.


Flexible EMI plans are being offered to make purchases more accessible. Bajaj Finserv is providing EMI options for up to 18 months, while Pine Labs is offering extended EMI plans of up to 24 months — both valid through September 24, 2026.


Offline Special Offers

Model

Key Specifications

Promotional Price

Katana 15 B13UDXK-107IN

Intel® Core™ i5-13420H/NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3060/GDDR6 6GB/8GB×2/1TB/IPS-Level FHD 15.6″ (144Hz)/4-Zone RGB

INR 94,990

Modern 14 C7M-104IN

AMD Ryzen™ 5 7530U/UMA/16GB/512GB/IPS-Level FHD 14″/Office 2024+M365

INR 66,990

Thin 15 B13UDX-128IN

Intel® Core™ i5-13420H/NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3050 GDDR6 6GB/8GB×2/1TB/IPS-Level FHD 15.6″ (144Hz)/Office 2024+M365

INR 89,990

Modern 15 H B13M-225IN

Intel® Core™ i7-13620H/UMA/8GB×2/512GB/IPS-Level FHD 15.6″/MS2021

INR 83,990

Modern 14 C13M-117IN

Intel® Core™ i5-1334U/UMA/16GB/512GB/IPS-Level FHD 14″/Office 2024+M365

INR 69,990

Thin 15 B13UC-125IN

Intel® Core™ i5-13420H/NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3050 GDDR6 4GB/8GB×2/512GB/IPS-Level FHD 15.6″ (144Hz)

INR 82,990

Thin 15 B13UDX-129IN

Intel® Core™ i5-13420H/NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3050 GDDR6 6GB/8GB×2/512GB/IPS-Level FHD 15.6″ (144Hz)

INR 80,990

Thin A15 B7UC-103IN

AMD Ryzen™ 7 7735HS/NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3050 GDDR6 4GB/8GB×2/1TB/IPS-Level FHD 15.6″ (144Hz)

INR 92,990

Cyborg 15 A2RUDX-110IN

Intel® Core™ 7 processor 240H/NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3050 GDDR6 6GB/16GB/512GB/IPS-Level FHD 15.6″ (144Hz)

INR 1,09,990

Modern 14 C7M-105IN

AMD Ryzen™ 5 7530U/UMA/8GB/512GB/IPS-Level FHD 14″/Office 2024+M365

INR 62,990

Thin A15 B7UC-104IN

AMD Ryzen™ 5 7535HS/NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3050 GDDR6 4GB/8GB×2/1TB/IPS-Level FHD 15.6″ (144Hz)

INR 82,990

Modern 14 C7M-101IN

AMD Ryzen™ 7 7730U/UMA/16GB/512GB/IPS-Level FHD 14″/Office 2024+M365

INR 75,990

Prestige 16 AI Evo B1MG-054IN

Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 Processor 155H/UMA/16GB/512GB/IPS-Level QHD+ 16″/MS2021

INR 1,39,990

Prestige 14 AI Evo C1MG-058IN

Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 Processor 125H/UMA/8GB×2/512GB/IPS-Level FHD+ 14″ (144Hz)/MS2021

INR 1,07,990

Modern 14 C13M-118IN

Intel® Core™ i3-1315U/UMA/16GB/512GB/IPS-Level FHD 14″/Office 2024+M365

INR 58,990

Katana 15 HX B14WEK-111IN

Intel® Core™ i7-14650HX/NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5050 GDDR7 8GB/8GB×2/512GB/IPS-Level FHD 15.6″ (144Hz)/4-Zone RGB

INR 1,77,990

Katana 15 HX B14WFK-109IN

Intel® Core™ i7-14650HX/NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5060 GDDR7 8GB/8GB×2/512GB/IPS-Level QHD 15.6″ (165Hz)/4-Zone RGB

INR 1,97,990

Katana 15 HX B14WFK-112IN

Intel® Core™ i9-14900HX/NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5060 GDDR7 8GB/8GB×2/1TB/IPS-Level QHD 15.6″ (165Hz)/4-Zone RGB

INR 2,26,990

Cyborg 15 A2RUDX-111IN

Intel® Core™ 5 processor 210H/NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3050 GDDR6 6GB/16GB/512GB/IPS-Level FHD 15.6″ (144Hz)

INR 1,02,990

Raider 18 Max HX A2WJ-1068IN

Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 processor 290HX Plus/NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5090 GDDR7 24GB/IPS-Level UHD+ MiniLED 18″ (120Hz)/Per-Key RGB

INR 6,49,990

Raider 18 Max HX A2WI-1257IN

Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 processor 290HX Plus/NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5080 GDDR7 24GB/16GB×2/2TB/IPS-Level UHD+ 18″ (120Hz)

INR 5,19,990

Crosshair 16 HX AI D2XWFKG-102IN

Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 Processor 275HX/NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5060 GDDR7 8GB/8GB×2/1TB/IPS-Level QHD+ 16″ (240Hz)/24-Zone RGB

INR 1,84,990

*Only Modern series is eligible for the extended warranty offer.


Online Channel Offers (Flipkart Only)
For online purchases, MSI’s September Promotion is available exclusively on Flipkart, spanning both the Gaming and Thin & Light (TNL) lineups with dedicated pricing.


Flipkart Gaming

Model

Key Specifications

Promotional Price

Stealth 14 AI Studio A1VFG-053IN

NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4060/Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 Processor 155H/16GB/1TB

INR 1,65,990

Stealth 16 AI Studio A1VGG-057IN

NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4070/Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 Processor 185H/32GB/2TB

INR 2,39,990

Pulse 17 AI C1VGKG-031IN

NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4070/Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 Processor 155H/16GB/1TB

INR 1,59,990

 

Flipkart Thin & Light (TNL)

Model

Key Specifications

Promotional Price

Commercial 14 H A13MG vPro-065IN

Intel® Iris® Xe Graphics/Intel® Core™ i7-13700H Processor/32GB/1TB

INR 92,990

Summit E13 AI Evo A1MTG-040IN

Intel® Arc™ Graphics/Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 Processor 125H/16GB/1TB

INR 1,24,990

Summit E13 AI Evo A1MTG-041IN

Intel® Arc™ Graphics/Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 Processor 155H/32GB/1TB

INR 1,36,990

 

About MSI
MSI is a world leader in gaming, content creation and AIoT solutions. Bolstered by its cutting-edge R&D capabilities and customer-driven innovation, MSI has a wide-ranging global presence spanning over 120 countries. Its comprehensive lineup of laptops, graphics cards, monitors, motherboards, desktops, peripherals, servers, IPCs, robotic appliances, and vehicle infotainment and telematics systems are globally acclaimed. Committed to advancing user experiences through the finest product quality, intuitive user interface and design aesthetics, MSI is a leading brand that shapes the future of technology. For more product information, please go to www.msi.com.

 

MSI Gaming: in.msi.com
MSI Facebook: www.facebook.com/MSIGamingIndia/ www.facebook.com/MSIIndia
MSI Instagram: www.instagram.com/msigaming_india/ www.instagram.com/msi_india/?hl=en


*All rights of the technical, pictures, text and other content published in this press release are reserved. Contents are subject to changes without prior notice.

MRG Group Expands MRG Crown Clubhouse to 30,000 Sq. Ft., Launches Club Jewel

MRG Group has expanded the clubhouse at its premium residential development, MRG Crown, from the originally planned 22,000 sq. ft. to 30,000 sq. ft., marking an enhancement of 8,000 sq. ft. to the project’s lifestyle and community infrastructure. The expanded clubhouse has been named Club Jewel.
 

MRG Group Expands MRG Crown Clubhouse to 30,000 Sq. Ft., Launches Club Jewel
 

The expansion reflects MRG Group’s focus on strengthening the lifestyle proposition of its residential developments and responding to the evolving expectations of homebuyers, who are increasingly seeking integrated communities with wellness, recreation, leisure and social amenities.
 

Club Jewel has been envisioned as the social and lifestyle hub of MRG Crown, bringing together spaces focused on wellness, premium experiences, leisure and recreation. The expanded footprint provides additional scope for curated amenities and common spaces designed to cater to residents across age groups and encourage greater interaction within the community.
 

Conceptualised with a contemporary design approach by renowned architect Anil Badan, Club Jewel combines modern architectural elements with functional spaces. The clubhouse is designed to provide residents with opportunities to pursue wellness and recreation, spend leisure time with family and friends, and engage with the wider community.
 

Speaking about the expansion, Rajjath Goel, Managing Director, MRG Group, said, “At MRG, we believe the value of a residential development extends well beyond the four walls of a home. Today’s homebuyers are increasingly looking for integrated communities that offer wellness, recreation, leisure and meaningful social experiences. The expansion of Club Jewel from 22,000 sq. ft. to 30,000 sq. ft. reflects our commitment to responding to these evolving expectations and continually enhancing the overall living experience. This additional space allows us to create a more comprehensive lifestyle offering at MRG Crown, while reinforcing our focus on delivering long-term value to our customers.”
 

The expanded Club Jewel is expected to add a new dimension to the overall living experience at MRG Crown, with a greater emphasis on community engagement and lifestyle-led amenities.
 

The development of larger and more experience-oriented clubhouses also reflects the broader shift in residential real estate, where common amenities and community infrastructure are becoming an increasingly important part of the homebuying proposition. Developers are placing greater emphasis on creating spaces that support wellness, recreation, social interaction and leisure alongside residential living.
 

With its expanded 30,000 sq. ft. footprint, Club Jewel is positioned to serve as an integral part of the MRG Crown community, offering residents a dedicated environment for recreation, relaxation, wellness and social engagement.

Axis Bank Launches Sparsh Week 2026: 'Act with Speed' Nationwide

Axis Bank, one of the largest private sector banks in India, today announced the launch of Sparsh Week 2026, its flagship customer obsession initiative that brings together customers, employees and leaders across the country to strengthen relationships, deepen customer understanding and drive meaningful action.
 

Scheduled from 7 to 11 September, this year’s edition is anchored around the theme “Act with Speed“, reinforcing the Bank’s commitment to listening to customers and translating insights into faster action and better experiences.
 

Now in its fourth year, Sparsh Week has evolved into one of the Bank’s largest customer engagement and employee mobilisation platforms. Over the next five days, the Axis Bank network aims to hold more than 2.5 lakh customer conversations across diverse customer touchpoints, segments, geographies and life stages.
 

A key highlight of this year’s edition will be extensive leadership participation, with more than 90 leaders in the field from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and from Kutch to Kohima, meeting customers and colleagues across touchpoints including branches, MWBCs, Loan Centres, Axis Phone locations, loan centres and offices, further strengthening customer connect and frontline engagement.
 

Commenting on the launch, Amitabh Chaudhry, MD & CEO, Axis Bank, said, “At Axis Bank, Sparsh is much more than a customer engagement programme. It is how we institutionalise customer obsession across the organisation. Over the years, Sparsh has become the bridge between customer insight and organisational action, ensuring that customer feedback shapes how we design journeys, empower employees and improve experiences. This year’s theme, ‘Act with Speed’, reflects our belief that listening matters only when it leads to action. Through the week, our teams will engage with customers across the country with a simple objective, to ensure every customer feels heard, every employee feels empowered and every insight helps us serve our customers better.”
 

Reflecting its focus on turning customer feedback into faster action, Axis Bank will introduce a simplified Auto and Two-Wheeler financing journey for eligible customers during Sparsh Week 2026. The fully digital, end-to-end paperless process will enable application-to-disbursement in just 30 minutes. Powered by automated decisioning, straight-through processing, digital documentation and seamless dealer integration, the journey will be available to both existing and New-to-Bank customers. It demonstrates how customer feedback can drive meaningful innovation, helping reduce friction, accelerate access and deliver a seamless financing experience.
 

Engaging customers through dedicated experiences

Sparsh Week 2026 will bring together a range of customer engagement forums, listening sessions and community outreach initiatives tailored to diverse customer groups. Key highlights include:

  • Senior Citizen Open Days focusing on retirement planning, estate planning, will creation, digital banking confidence and cyber fraud awareness.

  • NRI engagement forums to better understand evolving expectations around global banking, investments and cross-border financial needs.

  • Women Entrepreneur Connects bringing together women entrepreneurs, SHGs and JLGs to discuss business growth, opportunities and financial inclusion.

  • Wealth Unplugged conversations centred on wealth creation, succession planning, retirement readiness and long-term financial security.

  • MSME roundtables focusing on growth ambitions, digitisation, trade, transaction banking, forex and access to financing.

  • Apna Gaon Apna Desh initiatives for Bharat Banking customers, combining customer listening, financial awareness and community outreach.

  • Tractor Loan Carnivals for farmers, showcasing financing opportunities and agricultural aspirations.

  • Structured listening sessions and gratitude programmes for Corporate and Wholesale Banking customers to better understand future expectations and strengthen relationships.

  • Let’s Listen sessions, Thank-a-thons, customer panels and gratitude conversations designed to create meaningful dialogue and gather actionable customer insights.
     

Building customer obsession from within

Alongside customer engagement, employees across the Bank will participate in a series of capability-building and recognition initiatives including Pulsate, Ignite, AI Masterclasses, fireside chats, Hackathons, Design Thinking Workshops, Customer Experience Simulations, contests, Sparsh Stories, recognition, Sparsh Ramp of Impact and leadership conversations.
 

Sparsh Week reflects Axis Bank’s broader commitment to embedding customer-first thinking into everyday decision-making. Since the launch of Sparsh in FY22, the Bank’s indexed Retail Bank NPS has improved significantly, while the Bank has also strengthened its position in external customer experience benchmarks.
 

As Sparsh Week 2026 unfolds across the country, the Bank’s focus remains clear: reducing the time and friction between what customers convey and when the Bank takes action.
 

Every customer interaction should result in a clearer insight, a faster response, a resolved issue and a stronger relationship.

 

About Axis Bank

Axis Bank is one of the largest private sector banks in India. Axis Bank offers the entire spectrum of services to customer segments covering Large and Mid-Corporates, SME, Agriculture, and Retail Businesses. It has 6,295 domestic branches (including extension counters) and 12,564 ATMs and cash recyclers spread across the country as on 30th June 2026. The Bank’s Axis Virtual Centre is present across eight centres with 1,700 Virtual Relationship Managers as on 30th June 2026. The Axis Group includes Axis Mutual Fund, Axis Securities Ltd., Axis Finance, Axis Trustee, Axis Capital, A.TReDS Ltd., Freecharge, Axis Pension Fund and Axis Bank Foundation.
 

 For more information, visit the website www.axis.bank.in.

Sip the Nostalgia, Skip the Sugar: Borecha Reimagines Orange Bun-Taa! With Probiotics, Now on Instamart

Borecha, the functional beverages arm of Latambarcem Brewers, has expanded its Bun-Taa! range with the launch of Bun-Taa! Orange Pop, a modern take on one of India’s most nostalgic soft drink flavours. Inspired by the orange sodas that defined generations of Indian childhoods, the new beverage combines a familiar flavour with a contemporary functional formulation featuring zero sugar, probiotics and botanicals traditionally associated with digestive wellness.

 

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Buntaa Orange Pop Press Note


For a generation that grew up enjoying bright orange sodas at family gatherings, roadside stalls and neighbourhood stores, the flavour evokes a strong sense of nostalgia. Bun-Taa! Orange Pop recreates that experience for today’s consumers who are increasingly looking for beverages that balance taste with mindful choices.


Commenting on the launch, Ishan Varshnei, Co-Founder and CEO, Latambarcem Brewers, said, “Orange soda is a flavour many of us grew up with, and we wanted to bring back that familiar experience in a way that reflects how consumers eat and drink today. Bun-Taa! Orange Pop is our take on a nostalgic favourite, reimagined for people looking for better-for-you choices without compromising on taste.”


Gautam Swaroop, Chief Business Officer – Instamart said, “Our recent trends have shown us that while consumers still love familiar Indian flavours, they’re also becoming more curious about trying them in new formats, especially when there’s a wellness or functional element to them. Bun-Taa! Orange Pop brings that idea to a flavour many of us grew up with, pairing the nostalgia of orange soda with a contemporary, functional twist. We’re happy to give consumers a chance to rediscover a familiar favourite in a whole new way.”


Each 250ml can contains Bacillus coagulans (17654) with over 2 billion CFU of live probiotics, along with Borecha’s proprietary Gut Culture blend comprising Indian Gooseberry (Amla), Licorice Root, Bibhitaki and Haritaki, ingredients traditionally known to support digestion and gut health. The beverage contains zero sugar, achieved through a blend of stevia (INS 960) and sucralose (INS 955), and is made without artificial flavours or preservatives. It is vegan, gluten-free and priced at INR 49 per can.


Orange Pop joins the existing Bun-Taa! portfolio of Masala Cola, Basil Shikanji and Basil Soda Shikanji, further strengthening the brand’s range of functional beverages inspired by India’s vintage soda culture. Through the portfolio, Borecha aims to create refreshing alternatives that celebrate familiar Indian flavours while aligning with evolving consumer preferences.


Bun-Taa! Orange Pop is now available on quick commerce platforms including Instamart across Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, supported by a digital-first campaign celebrating the return of one of India’s most-loved soft drink flavours in a modern format.


About Bun-Taa!
Bun-Taa! is Borecha’s better-for-you vintage beverage range, created to reinvent India’s favourite refreshment experiences with thoughtful ingredients and modern formulations. Through flavours inspired by familiar Indian tastes, Bun-Taa! brings together enjoyment, innovation and mindful consumption. All variants are zero sugar, vegan and gluten-free.


About Borecha
Established in 2019, Borecha is a functional beverage brand specialising in low-sugar probiotic kombucha, sparkling iced teas and better-for-you vintage sodas. A brand by Goa-based Latambarcem Brewers, Borecha is available across 6,000+ offline locations including Akasa Air, Air India Express, Taj, Grand Hyatt and ITC, as well as leading quick-commerce and e-commerce platforms. www.borecha.com.

From Pitru Paksha to Navratri 2026: What Astrology Says

The festive season in India is often marked by a shift in mood – from a period of remembrance and reflection to one of celebration, devotion and new beginnings. In 2026, this transition will once again be seen as Pitru Paksha gives way to Sharad Navratri, bringing two spiritually significant periods close together.

 

From Pitru Paksha to Navratri 2026: What Astrology Says

 

According to the Hindu calendar, Pitru Paksha 2026 will begin on September 26 and conclude with Sarva Pitru Amavasya on October 10, while Sharad Navratri will begin on October 11 and continue through October 19, followed by Vijayadashami (Dussehra) on October 20.

 

For many Vedic astrology followers, the transition between these periods is more than a change in the festival calendar. It represents a movement from remembrance and ancestral observances towards devotion, Shakti and renewal.

 

Pitru Paksha: A Period for Remembrance and Reflection

Pitru Paksha is traditionally associated with remembering and paying respects to departed ancestors. Families perform rituals such as Shraddha and Tarpan during this period as a way of expressing gratitude and honouring their lineage.

 

From an astrological perspective, this period is often viewed as a time for introspection. Astrologers may encourage people to slow down, reflect on family traditions and focus on completing ancestral rituals with sincerity rather than treating the period simply as another part of the festive calendar.

 

The 2026 Pitru Paksha period will culminate on October 10 with Sarva Pitru Amavasya, which is considered an important day for ancestral observances.

 

Pitru Paksha is traditionally seen as a period of remembrance and gratitude. It gives people an opportunity to pause, reconnect with their roots and approach spiritual practices with greater mindfulness,” explains expert astrologers at Neo Astro.

 

The Transition from Pitru Paksha to Navratri

The end of Pitru Paksha is followed closely by the beginning of Sharad Navratri. In 2026, Navratri begins on October 11, immediately following Sarva Pitru Amavasya.

 

This close transition has particular significance within Hindu spiritual traditions. While Pitru Paksha is associated with ancestors and remembrance, Navratri is dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga and is traditionally observed through prayer, fasting, meditation and other forms of devotion.

 

Astrologers often describe this as a natural shift in spiritual focus – from looking towards one’s lineage and past to seeking strength, clarity and renewal for the period ahead.

 

For devotees, Navratri can therefore become a time to establish new intentions, strengthen spiritual discipline and reflect on personal goals.

 

What Makes Sharad Navratri Astrologically Significant?

Sharad Navratri is regarded as one of the most important Navratri celebrations of the year. Each of its nine days is traditionally dedicated to a different form of Goddess Durga, with devotees following different forms of worship and observance.

 

From an astrological viewpoint, the festival is often associated with qualities such as inner strength, discipline, courage and transformation. The nine-day period also provides an opportunity for people to adopt a more consistent spiritual routine.

 

Neo Astro astrologers suggest that people who observe Navratri can use the period for practices that encourage reflection and discipline, whether through meditation, mantra chanting, prayer, or simply setting aside dedicated time for spiritual activities.

 

Why the Period Can Be a Time for Spiritual Reset

The transition from Pitru Paksha to Navratri also reflects a broader rhythm found in Indian spiritual traditions: first looking inward, then moving forward.

 

Pitru Paksha encourages remembrance of one’s roots and ancestors, while Navratri shifts the focus towards Shakti, devotion and renewal. For many people, the period can serve as a natural opportunity to reassess personal priorities before entering the festive season.

 

Astrologers also point out that spiritual practices need not be complicated. Maintaining a regular prayer routine, chanting a suitable mantra, observing a fast according to one’s personal and family traditions, or simply spending a few quiet minutes in reflection can become part of a meaningful routine.

 

Personalized Astrology Can Add Another Layer

While festival traditions provide a common spiritual framework, Vedic astrology also places importance on an individual’s birth chart. Two people may observe the same festival but have very different planetary placements, Dashas and astrological circumstances.

 

This is where personalized astrological guidance can offer a different perspective. Rather than relying only on generalized zodiac predictions, an astrologer can study an individual’s Kundli and provide guidance based on their specific planetary positions and life circumstances.

 

Neo Astro astrology app offers free consultations with experienced astrologers and follows this personalized approach. The platform combines Vedic astrology with modern digital access, allowing users to seek guidance based on their birth details, Kundli and individual concerns.

 

A Season of Reflection, Devotion and New Beginnings

The period from Pitru Paksha to Navratri is an important transition in the Hindu calendar. In 2026, the two observances will follow one another closely, with Pitru Paksha ending on October 10 and Sharad Navratri beginning on October 11.

 

For astrologers and devotees alike, this period offers an opportunity to pause, reflect on one’s roots and then move towards a new phase with renewed intention.

 

As families prepare for Navratri celebrations after the period of Pitru Paksha, the focus gradually shifts from remembrance to devotion and from reflection to renewal. For those who follow Vedic astrology, it can also be an appropriate time to understand one’s individual birth chart and seek guidance that is relevant to their personal spiritual journey.

 

Neo Astro aims to make such astrological guidance more accessible by connecting users with experienced astrologers and personalized Vedic astrology services, helping them approach important periods of the year with greater awareness and clarity.

A New Hope for Knee Osteoarthritis – India's Approved Stem Cell Therapy Enters Clinical Practice First Time in Tamil Nadu at Dr. Kamakshi Memorial Hospitals

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common cause of pain, stiffness, reduced mobility and loss of function. While conventional treatments such as medication, physiotherapy, lifestyle modification and injections can provide relief, many patients with mild to moderate knee OA continue to face progressive joint damage.
 

For advanced osteoarthritis, knee replacement remains an established and effective treatment. However, for patients with mild to moderate disease, the priority can be to preserve the natural knee and delay or avoid surgery wherever clinically appropriate.
 

Dr. Deepak Kumar K S, MBBS, MS (Orthopedics), MCH (Ortho), Chief Consultant – Orthopedic surgeon, Knee Replacement and Mako Stryker Expert

 

At Kamakshi Memorial Hospitals, Dr. Deepak Kumar KS, Orthopedic Surgeon, Knee Replacement and Mako Stryker Expert, follows a knee-preservation-first approach. He evaluates every patient carefully and explores appropriate treatment options aimed at preserving the natural knee before considering replacement surgery.
 

“As knee replacement specialists, we should not look at replacement as the first and only solution. Wherever clinically appropriate, I believe in exploring every possible avenue to preserve the patient’s natural knee. We are constantly looking at newer, scientifically supported treatment options that can potentially help patients maintain their joint and quality of life,” Dr. Deepak.
 

In this pursuit of knee preservation, Dr. Deepak collaborated with Dr. Sathish Kumar Thangamani, MS (Ortho), D. Ortho., Dip (ABRM), Fellowship in Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine who is a Senior Assistant Professor @ Stanley Medical College and consultant at Dr. Kamakshi Memorial Hospitals to administer an innovative allogeneic bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy for carefully selected patients with knee osteoarthritis.
 

With approval from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI), the availability of this regulated stem cell therapy represents an important development in regenerative medicine and expands treatment possibilities between conservative care and surgical intervention.
 

The therapy, manufactured by Stempeutics Research and made available by Cipla, is designed to leverage the anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and cartilage-protective potential of mesenchymal stem cells.
 

Dr. Sathish says, “The collaboration marks an important step in translating advances in regenerative medicine into clinical practice. We hope this approach will ultimately benefit many patients with knee osteoarthritis.”
 

For patients with Grade II and III knee osteoarthritis, the availability of an approved regenerative therapy provides another potential option within the continuum of care. Individual treatment decisions, however, need to be based on the patient’s condition, disease severity and clinical assessment.
 

As knee osteoarthritis management evolves, the goal remains to provide patients with the right treatment at the right stage—while preserving the natural knee whenever clinically possible and using knee replacement when it is truly required.
 

To know more about the hospital please visit www.drkmh.com.

WazirX Brings Back Gangs of Wasseypur's Ramadhir Singh to Take on Tip-driven Crypto Trading

WazirX has turned to the world of director Anurag Kashyap’s iconic two-part film, Gangs of Wasseypur for its latest campaign. It has brought back Tigmanshu Dhulia as the formidable Ramadhir Singh – this time recast as ‘Bauji’, a figure of hard-earned trading wisdom. The 79-second film uses the visual language and father-son dynamic associated with the cult movie to address a distinctly contemporary problem – Indian crypto traders acting on unverified recommendations circulated through online tip groups. His message is: the person taking the trade bears the risk and must therefore do the thinking.

 

Snapshot of the campaign


Set inside spaces reminiscent of the film’s Wasseypur universe, the ad follows Bauji’s interaction with his seemingly inept son, who appears convinced that the people sharing tips online must know how to make money. Bauji promptly dismantles that assumption, pointing out that tip providers can earn regardless of whether the trader makes a profit or suffers a loss. The campaign uses humour to highlight a familiar pattern across online trading communities, where confident calls, promised returns and urgent buy-or-sell recommendations can encourage users to enter highly leveraged positions without adequately understanding the market. 
 

The video posted originally by Tigmanshu Dhulia has garnered over 1.6M views. The build up began with Dhulia posting about the return of his iconic character, and Anurag Kashyap chiming in about the ‘return of Ramadhir Singh’ before official announcements had begun. Speculations were rife on X with many users hoping for and anticipating a reboot of the movie or the characters in some form. The video also brings back the famous ‘Tumse na ho payega’ dialogue challenging the viewer – Kya tum se ho payega?, to rise above the temptation of trying to make a quick buck by succumbing to tips.


How the internet reacted: The ad reveal itself has garnered overwhelmingly positive response from netizens who have applauded the creativity of weaving the father-son verbal discourse into lessons about common mistakes made by crypto traders. 

WazirX has chosen an instantly recognisable piece of Indian popular culture to share the message. Ramadhir Singh’s impatience with his son becomes a metaphor for the frustration of watching traders repeatedly outsource their judgment to faceless tip groups.

In fast-moving markets, especially futures, blindly following anonymous tips can be disastrous. Through this campaign, we wanted to communicate a serious message in a culturally familiar and entertaining way: traders must build their own understanding before taking a position. With transparent pricing, intuitive trading tools, and WazirX AI supporting market research, our goal is to equip users to make more informed decisions,” said WazirX founder, Nischal Shetty.

By pairing a cult Bollywood character with India’s growing interest in crypto futures, the campaign seeks to make a risk-awareness message entertaining without diluting its seriousness. The creative also taps into the meme-like afterlife of Gangs of Wasseypur, whose characters and dialogues continue to remain part of online conversations more than a decade after the film’s release.


WazirX Futures was launched this May, with a maker fee of 0.02% and a taker fee of 0.04%. Among Indian crypto exchanges, this is the lowest fee, with no volume threshold required to access it. WazirX has also made available WazirX AI, an intelligent trading assistant designed to help users research crypto markets, understand their portfolios and act on trading opportunities in real time without moving between charts, news feeds, signal groups and trading screens. These create a favourable environment for crypto trading in the Indian market, making it easier for traders to do their own research instead of relying on unverified sources. 


About WazirX

WazirX is a leading Indian cryptocurrency exchange established in 2018, offering INR-based access to crypto through spot and perpetual futures markets. Users can buy and sell crypto in spot markets and trade INR-settled perpetual futures with features such as leverage, stop-loss and take-profit orders. WazirX has partnered with BitGo and integrated Fireblocks’ technology to strengthen digital asset security. WazirX supports INR deposits and withdrawals through verified bank accounts and is available on web, Android and iOS. The platform is registered as a Reporting Entity with the Financial Intelligence Unit, India (FIU-IND) and follows KYC and AML processes.
 

For more information about WazirX, please visit: wazirx.com

Investigation Across 21 Poultry Units in Four States Documents Widespread Animal Welfare, Hygiene and Biosecurity Concerns

Sentient today released the findings of an investigation into 21 layer-hen poultry units across Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, documenting widespread animal welfare, hygiene, waste-management and biosecurity concerns across the facilities investigated.

 

Chickens being kept under harsh conditions at the poultry farms


The investigation examined private poultry operations using battery-cage systems, with facilities ranging in estimated capacity from approximately 3,000 to 200,000 hens. The investigation found recurring concerns across multiple locations, suggesting that poor welfare and management practices were not isolated incidents but part of routine operating conditions.


Investigators documented severe overcrowding and fighting among hens, with widespread injuries observed across the facilities. Nearly all observed hens reportedly had injuries around the neck, apparently caused by repeated contact with metal cage bars. Wing injuries, broken legs, bleeding, skin conditions and severe physical weakness were also observed. Some hens were reportedly unable to stand.


Debeaking was identified as a routine practice across the facilities visited. Caretakers reported that hens underwent the procedure, while investigators documented visible injuries and blood loss associated with debeaking. In one facility, a worker was observed performing the procedure and invited the investigator to participate.


The investigation also documented signs of significant distress among the birds. Hens displayed continuous loud vocalisation and pronounced fear responses when people approached. Competition and aggression over limited cage space were observed, with weaker birds reportedly being attacked and, in some cases, killed. Investigators also documented instances of birds being handled roughly by workers, including chicks being thrown and vigorously handled following debeaking.


Hygiene and waste-management practices raised further concerns. Manure was observed accumulating beneath cages, sometimes reportedly remaining in place throughout a production batch. Strong foul odours resembling ammonia, rodents, cockroaches, stagnant water and mosquito larvae were observed at various facilities. Feed in some units showed visible signs consistent with fungal growth or possible contamination.


Waste-management systems varied across facilities. In several locations, manure and wastewater were poorly managed, with waste entering or clogging drains and contributing to stagnant or overflowing wastewater. Large quantities of waste were also observed accumulating in piles at some facilities. Carcass-disposal practices included burial in pits, burning and incineration; in one case, investigators documented a disposal site near a highway where carcasses were reportedly dumped without burial or incineration.


The investigation further found limited implementation of employee and visitor biosecurity measures. Investigators observed apparent biosecurity protocols at only one facility, while masks and other personal protective equipment were not provided or used at the remaining facilities. Flies, rodents, cockroaches and stagnant water were observed across the facilities, raising concerns about vector control and hygiene.


Investigators also observed children working at poultry facilities, including collecting eggs and cleaning premises. Neither adult workers nor children observed during the visits were equipped with masks or other personal protective equipment.


The investigation identified regulatory and compliance concerns in parts of the sector. In Madhya Pradesh, none of the seven facilities investigated reportedly possessed Consent to Establish or Consent to Operate from the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board. The investigation also noted that complaints concerning some facilities had reportedly been submitted in 2024, citing alleged violations of applicable siting criteria and the absence of required consents. The 2026 visits indicated limited visible enforcement action beyond issuing a general public notice.


Key Observations

  • 21 poultry units investigated across Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

  • Facilities had estimated capacities ranging from approximately 3,000 to 200,000 layer hens.

  • All facilities investigated used battery-cage housing systems.

  • Severe overcrowding and fighting among hens were observed.

  • Widespread injuries included neck and wing injuries, broken legs, bleeding, skin conditions and severe physical weakness.

  • Debeaking was reported as a routine practice across the facilities visited, with injuries and blood loss documented.

  • Dead hens were observed both inside and outside cages, while staff at some facilities reported approximately 5–10 deaths per shed; actual mortality rates could not be independently verified.

  • Poor hygiene was documented, including manure accumulation, strong ammonia-like odours, stagnant water, rodents, cockroaches and mosquito larvae.

  • Waste and wastewater were poorly managed at several facilities, including drain blockages, stagnant or overflowing wastewater, and accumulated manure.

  • Limited employee biosecurity: apparent biosecurity measures were observed at only one facility.

  • Masks and other personal protective equipment were generally not provided or used.

  • Children were observed working at poultry facilities, including collecting eggs and cleaning premises.

  • Some facilities were located approximately 10–400 metres from residential areas.

  • All facilities were reportedly located near a national highway.

  • In Madhya Pradesh, none of the seven facilities investigated reportedly possessed Consent to Establish or Consent to Operate from the MPPCB.

  • Similar husbandry and management practices appeared routine and normalised rather than isolated, according to investigator observations.

  • The findings point to the need for stronger monitoring, enforcement, animal-welfare oversight, biosecurity and responsible waste management across poultry operations.


The consistency of what our investigators documented across 21 facilities is deeply concerning. Practices such as severe overcrowding, routine debeaking, untreated injuries, poor waste management and weak biosecurity should not be accepted as business as usual. The findings point to a systemic gap between the standards that are expected and the conditions animals and workers may actually experience on the ground. Stronger enforcement, regular inspections and meaningful accountability are urgently needed to ensure that poultry production does not come at the cost of animal welfare, hygiene or public health,” said Abhishek Pandey, CEO, Sentient.


Following the investigation, Sentient calls for stronger implementation and monitoring of existing animal welfare, environmental, public health and poultry-sector regulations. The organisation also urges regular inspections of poultry facilities, improved biosecurity and veterinary support, responsible carcass and waste disposal, better protection for workers, and greater accountability for practices that compromise animal welfare and hygiene.


Sentient further recommends continued investigation of poultry facilities and hatcheries, particularly in Madhya Pradesh, to better document practices involving debeaking and the reported sourcing and handling of chicks.


Investigation videos
YouTube Video

 

About Sentient
Sentient is an organisation working to document and expose animal welfare concerns through evidence-based investigations, research and public awareness initiatives. By bringing credible documentation to light, the organisation seeks to strengthen accountability and encourage meaningful improvements in animal welfare standards across sectors.

Beyond the Landmarks: Discover Hong Kong Like a Local in Old Town Central

Hong Kong

Beyond Hong Kong’s mega events and world-famous attractions, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) invites Indian visitors to discover the city like a local through its diverse neighbourhoods. Old Town Central, one of HKTB’s signature neighbourhood experiences, brings Hong Kong’s identity to life through an eclectic mix of East and West, past and present, where historic temples and traditional local businesses sit alongside vibrant street art, contemporary cultural landmarks and award-winning restaurants.

 

From heritage and art to local flavours and exclusive drinks, explore the neighbourhood from day to night along the iconic Central-Mid-Levels Escalator

 

Anchored by the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator, the Central-Mid-Levels Escalator, Old Town Central invites visitors to experience the vibrant area from day to night. Four newly curated thematic experiences reveal its culture, heritage, art and food, while an interactive AR guide and authentic local voices offer deeper insight into the people and stories behind the neighbourhood. Limited-time keepsakes and themed drinks add even more ways to experience — and remember — Central like a local. 

 

Uncovering Central’s Heartbeat: Themed Experiences and Authentic Local Voices Along the Central-Mid-Levels Escalator

More than a way to move through Central, the iconic Central-Mid-Levels Escalator becomes the backbone for exploring the neighbourhood’s rich culture, history and community. Designed to bridge the distance between travellers and local residents, the experience encourages visitors to venture beyond the main thoroughfares and immerse themselves in the neighbourhood through four themed experiences highlighting handpicked community gems:

 

  • Old Town Signatures encompasses some of the quintessential experiences that make Central unmistakably Hong Kong. Visitors can explore traditional wet markets and historic temples, stop by one of the city’s last artisanal soy sauce makers at Kowloon Soy Co. Ltd, experience the bustle of an authentic dai pai dong, or browse the open-air stalls of Upper Lascar Row. Together, these local institutions offer a snapshot of the traditions, flavours and everyday experiences that have shaped the neighbourhood.

  • Old Town Legacy brings Central’s layered history to life, making it an ideal introduction for families and first-time visitors. From the distinctive granite steps of Pottinger Street and the revitalised former police station and prison complex at Tai Kwun, to the historic Dr Sun Yat-sen Museum and traditional tong lau architecture, this experience traces the people, places and East-meets-West influences that have shaped the district over generations.

  • Neighbourhood Taste explores Central through one of the best ways to understand Hong Kong: its food. From breakfast through to nightcap, the experience brings Michelin-starred restaurants, acclaimed and beloved local institutions together side by side. Visitors can begin with traditional tea and dim sum, discover neighbourhood bakeries and herbal tea shops, and explore Central’s internationally celebrated restaurants after dark.  

  • Art & Soul reveals the creative side of Central, where contemporary art and design exist alongside traditional craftsmanship and historic streetscapes. Visitors can discover world-class galleries and colourful murals around Hollywood Road, browse antiques along Upper Lascar Row, explore cutting-edge creativity and design at PMQ, and wander through character-filled streets including Wing Lee Street and Tai Ping Shan Street.   

 

To bring visitors even closer to the heartbeat of the community, a new interactive AR web app (accessed via DiscoverHongKong.com) triggers dynamic, motion-activated content at key locations along each themed experience. The local connection is further deepened through immersive audio experiences, where local business owners or staff at local institutions share personal stories about Central’s evolving character. Featured local voices include:

  • Bonny Yuen (Founder of Yuen’s Tailor): a family-run tailoring shop boasting over 55 years of history and craftsmanship.

  • Gavin Yeung (Co-founder of Kinsman): a Central place known for its innovative drinks inspired by Cantonese and Chinese flavours.

  • Ben Tsui (Fourth-generation owner of Kung Lee Herbal Tea Shop): a time-honoured herbal tea shop famous for its fresh sugar cane juice and traditional herbal jelly.

  • Cecilia Chan (Co-founder of Glocal Mahjong): one of the few places in Hong Kong where visitors can pick up a unique mahjong-themed souvenir.

 

Take Central Memories Home with Limited-Time Keepsakes and Drinks

To mark the launch of the campaign, Old Town Central is introducing a series of exclusive collaborations and special experiences available for a limited time, giving Indian visitors even more reasons to explore the neighbourhood.

 

Visitors can collect a complimentary Old Town Map to guide their journey through the neighbourhood’s hidden gems, while tourists who spend HKD200 or more in a single same-day transaction at participating merchants can redeem one of five limited-edition Street Sign Pins at Central Market, Tai Kwun, PMQ or other participating merchants.

 

The new Old Town Central experience is part of HKTB’s broader effort to encourage Indian visitors to explore Hong Kong’s diverse neighbourhoods and connect more deeply with the communities that define the city. By combining heritage, creativity, gastronomy and innovation, Old Town Central invites travellers to venture beyond the city’s more familiar landmarks and discover the authentic stories waiting around every corner.

 

About Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB)

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is a government-subvented body tasked with marketing and promoting Hong Kong as a travel destination worldwide and enhancing visitors’ experience once they arrive. These include making recommendations to the Government and other relevant bodies on the range and quality of visitor facilities.

 

The HKTB’s missions are to maximise the social and economic contribution made by tourism to the community of Hong Kong and to consolidate Hong Kong’s position as a unique, world-class, and most desired destination.

Kansai Nerolac Presents "Noor-e-Kashmir"

Beyond Kashmir’s breathtaking landscapes lies another expression of its beauty – its homes. Rooted in tradition, shaped by craftsmanship and brought alive through contemporary design, every home has a character of its own. With ‘Noor-e-Kashmir’, Kansai Nerolac Paints Limited (KNPL) brings alive the stories behind some of Kashmir’s most distinctive homes and the people who bring them to life.

 

Kansai Nerolac presents “Noor-e-Kashmir”

 

In Kashmir, homes are more than living spaces. They are where families come together, guests are welcomed, celebrations take place and communities connect. These cultural and social nuances, and the important role that homes play in everyday life, form the consumer insight behind Noor-e-Kashmir.

 

Watch the episodes here: Noor-e-Kashmir by Kansai Nerolac Paints

 

The new digital series features 12 homes across Kashmir, each reflecting the region’s distinctive architecture, aesthetic sensibilities and relationship with nature and colour. Shortlisted in collaboration with a renowned Kashmir based architect, the homes have been selected for their individuality and character. But Noor-e-Kashmir is not simply about the finished home. It is about everything that goes into creating it; the choices made by homeowners, the expertise of dealers, the craftsmanship of contractors and the local ecosystem that helps bring each space together.

 

Pravin Chaudhari, Managing Director, Kansai Nerolac Paints Limited said, “Kashmir is an important market for Kansai Nerolac, with distinct consumer preferences and a strong appreciation for colour, design, and craftsmanship. Noor-e-Kashmir reflects our understanding of the market and our commitment to strengthening connect with consumers, our dealer and contractor network in the region, while celebrating the distinctive character of Kashmiri homes. With Noor-e-Kashmir, we aim to give a tribute to Kashmir, its people, homes and the craftsmanship behind it.”

 

The episodes will be released across Kansai Nerolac’ s owned digital platforms, led by YouTube and amplified across its other social media channels. Each episode will focus on a single home, while bringing the people behind it into the frame. The homes featured in the series have been painted using Nerolac Impressions Kashmir for interiors, Excel Everlast for exteriors, and the Gloria and ICRO ranges for wood finishes. The series also dedicates a segment of every episode to the contractor involved in the project, who will be recognised as ‘Noor-e-Kashmir Contractors,’ receiving badges and certificates acknowledging their contribution, along with social media recognition.

 

Ramkrishna Naik, Chief Marketing Officer, Kansai Nerolac Paints Limited added, “Noor-e-Kashmir celebrates not only distinctive Kashmiri homes, but also the people behind them. Through this digital series, we want to bring forward the choices, stories and craftsmanship that give each home its unique character. For us, paint has never been just about what you put on a wall, but about how that colour energises the space and people who live within it.”

 

The stories featured in Noor-e-Kashmir will culminate in a special ‘Noor-e-Kashmir Colour Book’, bringing together the 12 homes showcased in the series. Featuring their colours, architectural details and design choices, the book will serve as a source of inspiration for consumers.

 

Episodes of ‘Noor-e-Kashmir’ are available on Kansai Nerolac Paints’ YouTube channel.

 

About Kansai Nerolac Paints Ltd.

Kansai Nerolac Paints now in its 106th year has been at the forefront of paint manufacturing pioneering a wide spectrum of quality paints. Kansai Nerolac is one of the leading paint companies in India and is the leader in Industrial paints. The company has eight strategically located manufacturing units all over India and a strong dealer network across the country. The company manufactures a diversified range of products ranging from decorative paints coatings for homes, offices, hospitals, and hotels to sophisticated industrial coatings for most of the industries.

 

Please visit www.nerolac.com.