British Safety Council has opened applications for the International Safety Awards 2027.

The International Safety Awards are a globally recognised accolade celebrating organisations that demonstrate a strong commitment to high standards of health, safety and wellbeing management. The 2027 awards mark the 69th year of the programme.

Launching the 2027 International Safety Awards, Mike Robinson, Chief Executive of British Safety Council, said, “British Safety Council’s International Safety Awards have long been recognised by leaders and practitioners as a pinnacle of achievement, celebrating outstanding commitment to protecting and improving the health, safety and wellbeing of workers.”

“At British Safety Council, our vision is that no one should be injured or made ill through their work, anywhere in the world. I encourage organisations and leaders everywhere who are proud of their health, safety and wellbeing record to put themselves forward for an award.”

In 2026, a total of 885 applications were received for the International Safety Awards; with 95% of applicants successfully achieving a Distinction, Merit or Pass grade.

A full list of 2026 winners can be found here.

Organisations can also be recognised as ‘best in class’ across five award categories:

• Sector Awards recognise the highest-scoring ‘best in class’ submissions to the International Safety Awards by industry sector.

• Best in Country Awards recognise the highest-scoring and best overall applications from individual countries, where there are sufficient applications from that country.

• Best in Company Award recognises organisations with 50 or more participating sites, highlighting the site or sites with the most outstanding applications.

• Chief Adjudicator’s Award recognises the most outstanding applications from the year’s entrants, based on evidence submitted through their application responses.

• People Awards introduced last year, the People Awards are open to all Indian organisations that purchase an entry to the International Safety Awards. Applicants can enter across three categories.

• Site/Plant Head Award recognises efforts to improve the overall health, safety and wellbeing culture of an organisation or site.

• Emerging Female Star in Safety Award recognises women who are breaking through and shaping future leadership in health, safety, wellbeing or environmental management.

• Lifetime Achievement Award recognises an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to workplace health, safety and wellbeing throughout their career.

The following awards are free to enter, whether or not applicants have applied for an International Safety Award:

• Road Safety Initiative: recognises efforts by an organisation to improve road safety through the positive impact of new initiatives.

• India Managing Director Award: recognises efforts to improve overall health, safety and wellbeing culture, with an emphasis on demonstrated leadership across the organisation.

• Dave Parr Medal: recognises a public venue that developed a standout initiative in 2025 that made a significant impact on health, safety or wellbeing at the venue.

• Environmental Award: recognises an organisation that has used climate-change risk assessment and vulnerability modelling to identify and plan adaptation strategies for a changing climate.

• The Innovation in Health Award in collaboration with HSE: This new award recognises pioneering initiatives that have made a significant and measurable impact on preventing work-related health issues in the workplace or across an industry.

• Health, Safety and Wellbeing Ambassador of the Year Award: recognises an employee who has played a significant role in supporting the health, safety and wellbeing of colleagues and others.

• Lifetime Achievement Award: voted for by the Trustees of British Safety Council, this award recognises people who have made an outstanding contribution to workplace health, safety and wellbeing throughout their career.

• Rising Female Star Award in collaboration with SOWSHE-A: recognises women who are breaking through and shaping future leadership in health, safety, wellbeing or environmental management.

• Seize the Opportunity Award: recognises organisations that have gone the extra mile to identify and act on health, safety or wellbeing opportunities arising from a crisis.

• CEO Award: recognises the leadership and strategic vision of CEOs who have made a vital contribution to the health, safety and wellbeing of their business and wider society during 2025.

• The James Tye Award: recognises an organisation or team that developed and ran a campaign in 2025 which made a significant impact on health, safety or wellbeing in the workplace.

• Team of the Year Award: recognises outstanding achievements that have led to a significant improvement in health, safety or wellbeing through collaboration among stakeholders, which may include employees, suppliers, subcontractors or the wider community.

• Wellbeing Initiative Award: recognises organisations that demonstrate a proactive and effective approach to improving employee wellbeing.

The early-bird pricing deadline for applications is 02 November 2026, while the final deadline for entries is 01 February 2027. Results will be announced on 19 March 2027. 

To apply, visit: International Safety Awards | British Safety Council India

• Following the launch of their first project in the KIADB micro-market, Assetz and Fairlark announce a new residential development with at least 1.68 million sq. ft. of estimated saleable built-up area

• Transaction strengthens Assetz’s presence in one of Bengaluru’s airport-led growth corridors

Assetz, a Bengaluru-based design-led residential real estate developer, has tied up land belonging to Fairlark Sagar Enterprises Centroid Pvt. Ltd., a 10-acre land parcel within the KIADB Hardware Park in North Bengaluru. The proposed residential development will have minimum 1.68 million sq. ft. of estimated saleable built-up area. This new development follows the response to the partners’ first project, Assetz Sora & Saki.

Assetz

The transaction marks another significant addition to Assetz’s development pipeline and strengthens the company’s presence in North Bengaluru, a micro-market that has become an increasingly important part of the city’s residential growth story. The acquisition is aligned with Assetz’s strategy of consolidating and strengthening its position in Bengaluru by expanding presence across established high-absorption, infrastructure-linked and emerging micro-markets. The continued partnership reflects the confidence of both companies in the long-term potential of the KIADB micro-market and in a development model that aims to bring together strategic locations, thoughtful design, quality homes and a customer-centric approach.

Located approximately 15 minutes from Kempegowda International Airport, the site sits within the KIADB Hardware Park and the larger aerospace, technology and advanced-manufacturing ecosystem developing around the airport. The corridor today accommodates a growing concentration of global technology, aerospace and engineering companies, with facilities of companies such as Shell India Markets, SAP Labs and Boeing in the vicinity. The neighbourhood is also supported by educational and healthcare institutions, strengthening its appeal as a residential catchment. The wider area is witnessing further development of its social infrastructure, with new malls, hotels and other lifestyle destinations that are coming up. Reflecting the growing residential interest in the micro-market, the zone has also attracted projects from several real estate developers.

The location also benefits from access towards Kempegowda International Airport, Devanahalli, Bagalur and the wider North Bengaluru region, with road networks providing links towards Budigere Cross, Old Madras Road, East Bengaluru and Whitefield. The Satellite Town Ring Road further strengthens the larger regional road network by connecting Bengaluru’s northern and eastern peripheral growth centres. The upcoming Namma Metro Blue Line and the under-construction Bagalur Cross Metro Station are expected to further enhance public-transport access between the corridor and key parts of the city.

Commenting on the transaction, Mr. Sunil Pareek, Executive Director, Assetz, said, “The scale of this parcel gives Assetz the opportunity to plan a cohesive residential development with the depth and quality that a project of this size demands. There is significant potential to create a development that remains relevant as the surrounding micro-market continues to evolve. At Assetz, growth is not simply about adding acreage; it is about identifying opportunities where thoughtful design, strong execution and capital discipline can create enduring value. This transaction reflects that approach and further strengthens the visibility of our future development pipeline.”

Mr. Madhav Raju, Managing Director, Fairlark, also comments that, “At Fairlark, we believe that the success of any development ultimately comes down to the customer — the location they choose, the quality of the home they purchase and the experience they receive throughout the journey. Assetz brings a strong design-led approach and a deep understanding of what today’s homebuyer values, while Fairlark brings its focus on North Bengaluru and its understanding of the opportunities emerging across this rapidly developing corridor. Together, we are creating a development model that combines strategic locations with aesthetically designed homes, quality and customer-centric thinking.”

About Assetz

Assetz is a residential real estate developer with a focus on design excellence, along with disciplined capital allocation, institutional governance and sustainability practices. The developer focuses on delivering high-quality homes characterised by timeless architecture, thoughtful material selection, refined minimalism and calm, cohesive living environments. This philosophy enables Assetz to create value both internally through space planning and externally through amenity-led master plans. As a result, this approach has enabled the company to create a differentiated and recognisable brand positioning within Bengaluru’s residential real estate market.

The Assetz portfolio spans 50+ projects, 50+ million sq. ft. and 22,000+ units as of August 31, 2026, reflecting the scale of its experience and its growing contribution to Bengaluru’s residential landscape.

• 58% of Indians plan to travel abroad more in 2027

• Skyscanner’s Travel Trends 2027 report reveals seven emerging trends shaping Indian travel, including Signal Severance, Pilgra-merch, Sten Do Surge, Grand Odysseys, Gymcation, Sound Bound and Currency Chasers

• Indian travellers are putting their own spin on travel, with 91% drawn to wellness-focused stays, 89% inspired by history and mythology, and 67% having changed a destination because another offered better value

• Skyscanner’s Travel Trends 2027 report combines proprietary search insights with research into 2,000 Indian traveller behaviour across travel intent, AI, wellness, music, history, exclusive finds and value

Leading global travel app Skyscanner has officially launched its Travel Trends 2027 report, revealing next year’s top trending and best value destinations as well as showcasing the seven key trends influencing traveller behaviour and key shifts in the travel industry in the coming year.

Neel Ghose, Travel Trends and Destinations Expert

In a fragmented and often overstimulating world, Indian travellers are increasingly seeking value not just in what they spend but what they gain. Whether that means unplugging completely, travelling for an exclusive purchase, maintaining a wellness routine on the road, celebrating together, following music and culture, or tracing history and mythology – getaways are increasingly reflecting how Indians choose to live.

And despite broader consumer spending slowing and global economic tides shifting, travel appetite remains strong – with 58% of Indians planning to travel abroad more in 2027. Instead of giving up on travel, Indians are adapting how they spend, with 56% planning to spend more on flights and 44% on accommodation. At the same time, value remains central, with 67% having changed a holiday destination or considered doing so because an alternative offered better value.

Neel Ghose, Travel Trends and Destinations Expert, Skyscanner India, said, “Indian travellers are entering 2027 with a stronger appetite to explore, but they are also becoming more considered about how they spend their time and money. We’re seeing a shift from simply choosing where to go towards thinking more carefully about the experience they want from a trip, whether that is switching off, discovering something new, staying active or getting better value.

With 87% of Indians now confident using AI to plan and book travel, technology is also becoming an important part of this decision-making journey. Tools such as Skyscanner’s Explore with AI can help travellers turn an idea into a trip, while features like Price Alerts and Drops can help them stay on top of fares and spot opportunities to travel for less. The opportunity for travellers in 2027 is to use these tools to be more flexible and intentional, without compromising on the experiences that matter most.”

Combining exclusive Skyscanner proprietary data with insights into 2,000 Indian travelles and supporting data from trusted partner, the seven trends shaping travel in 2027 include:

1. Sound Bound – Music is taking Indian travellers beyond traditional concert halls, with 43% choosing carnival experiences and 38% preferring unique venues such as volcanoes, pyramids and caves for music-based experiences while on holiday. While genre leads as the biggest consideration at 27%, cultural immersion (20%) and seeing a new venue (19%) also shape music-led travel.

2. Signal Severance – Switching off is easier said than done for Indian travellers, with 43% saying it takes a little time to clear their head and stop checking their phone, while only 23% switch off immediately at the start of their journey. Yet going off-grid could help them reconnect with what matters, with 75% saying they would feel more connected to nature and 73% to themselves without their phones. In response, destinations offering a chance to slow down and switch off are seeing rising demand, with Pokhara (+166% YoY), Agatti (+157% YoY) and Phu Quoc (+133% YoY) emerging as top destinations for digital disconnection.

3. Gymcation – Health and fitness travel is inspiring Indian travellers to seek out destinations where staying active and prioritising nutritious choices is as easy as sightseeing. 91% are likely to book a hotel offering nutritional-performance breakfast options, while 53% actively look for fitness facilities and are willing to choose one hotel over another if its fitness offering is better.

Deepak Raj, Country Head, HYROX India, said, “Our registration data shows that fitness is no longer something Indians pause when they travel – it’s becoming a reason to travel. Nearly half the athletes at our Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru events this year travelled from another city, sometimes another state, just to compete. That tells us the ‘gym-cation’ isn’t a niche behaviour anymore; for a growing number of Indian travellers, a workout event is now as legitimate a reason to book a trip as a concert or a marathon.”

4. Pilgra-merch – The best keepsakes are the ones you have to travel for. 80% of Indians have visited a specific destination or store to purchase a location-exclusive item, with Gen Z (84%) and Millennials (82%) particularly likely to have travelled for an exclusive purchase. Nearly half (49%) would even fly for up to three to six hours to buy something they cannot get elsewhere.

5. Sten Do Surge – As couples marry later in life and move away from traditionally gendered celebrations, the classic ‘stag’ or ‘hen’ trip is giving way to a more inclusive era of joint travel – the ‘Sten Do’. 73% Indian travellers prefer either a shared celebration or a mix of shared and separate celebrations. Fun (64%), more time together before the wedding (53%), convenience (49%) and cost savings (48%) are driving the shift.

6. Grand Odysseys – In a fast-paced world, history and mythology offer context, grounding travellers in timeless human stories. For Indian travellers, the past is inspiring the present, with 89% having had their travel plans inspired by a historic event, a classical story or myth, or both. Historical figures (61%), architectural wonders (57%) and mythological legends (52%) are among the strongest sources of inspiration.

7. Currency Chasers – Savvy Indian travellers are actively matching destinations to better value. 69% always or often consider a destination’s currency strength when booking holidays, while 67% have actually changed a holiday destination because another offered better value. Among Gen Z, that rises to 77% when including those who have changed or considered changing destination.

Trending & Best Value Destinations

Skyscanner’s experts have highlighted the key travel behaviours and destinations shaping Indian travel in 2027, with international travel appetite remaining strong and travellers increasingly seeking experiences that offer better value, wellness, culture and discovery.

For Indian travellers looking to make the most of their holiday budgets in 2027, value is a key consideration.

Top 10 Trending Destinations List

Top 10 Best Value Destinations List

Travel Trends 2027 research suggests that rising costs are not stopping Indians from getting away, but they are making for smarter spenders. A strong 58% plan to travel abroad more in 2027, while 56% plan to spend more on flights and 44% on accommodation. Value is also reshaping destination choices, with 67% having changed a destination because an alternative offered better value.

AI is becoming a travel companion for Indians, with more than half planning to turn to AI for destination research, 1 in 2 using it to compare flights, accommodation and prices, and almost 2 in 5 using it to book flights. At the same time, accuracy remains a key consideration for more than half of travellers.

When it comes to trip inspiration, screens are playing an increasingly important role for Indian travellers, with YouTube (78%) and Instagram (69%) leading, while 30% are already turning to AI chatbots and tools for travel inspiration.

To read more about the Travel Trends 2027 please click here.
 

Notes to editors

Data comes from the OnePoll survey commissioned by Skyscanner. It took place in July 2026 with and involved 2,000 respondents from India.

**Based on % price drop for economy class return flight booked between 1 January and 17 June 2026, for travel throughout 2026, compared to the same period in 2025. The list was then curated by considering additional factors such as suitability for leisure travel, ensuring the results are both data-driven and relevant for holidaymakers.

The report draws on Skyscanner’s proprietary data and research into Indian traveller behaviour to reveal the key trends shaping travel in 2027. Indian destination trend and best-value destination data to be added, subject to availability.

About Skyscanner

Skyscanner is a global leader in travel that helps travellers plan and book their trip with ease and confidence. Every month, Skyscanner connects millions of travellers, in 52 countries and 37 languages, to more than 1,400 trusted travel partners so they can find flight, hotel or car hire options.

Founded in 2003, Skyscanner has offices worldwide, in Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America where traveller-first innovations are developed and powered by data and insights. Making use of the latest technology, Skyscanner simplifies the complexity of travel and provides honest and transparent solutions, searching billions of prices every day so travellers can be sure they’ve seen some of the best possible options, all in one place.

Ekya Vana Early Years, the nature-based preschool and daycare programme from Ekya Schools, will welcome its first cohort at its Haralur campus on October 21, 2026. Admissions are open for children aged 18 months to 6 years. Spread across 10,000 sq. ft., the campus features a mini-forest, a butterfly garden and indoor and outdoor spaces designed to bring nature into children’s learning experiences.

Ekya Vana Early Years, Haralur, Bengaluru – a nature-inspired space where children learn through exploration, play and connection with nature

Haralur is the programme’s third Bengaluru campus, following its centres in RMV Sanjay Nagar and Manyata Tech Park. The campus extends Ekya Vana Early Years’ nature-based approach to early childhood education in south-east Bengaluru.

The campus landscape includes mango, guava, chikoo, banana, coconut and pomegranate trees, alongside a butterfly garden where children can observe and engage with the natural environment.. Spaces such as the mud kitchen, nature workshop, eco lab and indoor atelier support hands-on exploration, creative expression and learning through experience.

As part of its planned eco-initiatives, the campus will also introduce a biopond. Once developed, it will give children opportunities to observe fish and explore how aquatic life interacts with plants and other elements of an ecosystem, helping them understand how different living things depend on one another.

At the heart of the programme is Earth Sense, an approach rooted in the belief that children are part of the natural world. Through its People & Planet and Earth Care pathways, Ekya Vana Early Years encourages children to explore their relationship with nature. The programme aims to make sustainability tangible through observation, inquiry and hands-on experiences, helping children understand how living systems are connected and why care for the environment matters.

“At Ekya Vana Early Years, we want children to grow up seeing nature not as something outside their lives, but as part of the world they belong to. In the early years, even simple experiences of observing a butterfly, exploring soil or noticing how plants grow can shape the way children relate to their surroundings. That connection is where we believe a lasting sense of care for the natural world begins,” said Dr. Tristha Ramamurthy, Founder, Ekya Schools.

Parents are invited to participate in sessions around food, nutrition and nature, creating opportunities to engage with the ideas that shape the programme.

The Haralur campus was unveiled at an event on September 19, attended by parents, prospective families and early childhood educators. The launch was also attended by Dr. K.C. Ramamurthy, IPS (Retd.), Chairman of the CMR Group of Institutions and CMR University, and former Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), and Dr. Sabitha Ramamurthy, President of CMR Jnanadhara Trust and Chancellor of CMR University.

Admissions are open for children aged 18 months to 6 years. The campus is located at  10th, 13/57, Shubh Enclave, main, Haralur Main Rd, off Sarjapur Main Road, Haralur, Kasavanahalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka. 

About Ekya Vana Early Years

Ekya Vana Early Years is the nature-based preschool and daycare programme from Ekya Schools, part of the CMR Group of Institutions. Founded in 2025, it offers early learning for children aged 18 months to 6 years across three Bengaluru campuses: RMV Sanjay Nagar, Manyata Tech Park and Haralur.

Its Earth Sense approach encourages children to develop a connection with the natural world through curiosity, exploration and hands-on learning. Through its People & Planet and Earth Care pathways, the programme introduces children to ideas of interdependence, care and environmental responsibility from their earliest years.

The British School New Delhi, in collaboration with the UCL Centre for Educational Leadership at the UCL Institute of Education (IOE), hosted a three-day Leadership Development Conference from 9–11 October 2026, bringing together 40 delegates from 23 schools across India.
 

In Picture: Conference participants, and staff from TBS and UCL
 

The conference welcomed heads of schools and educational leaders from international, CBSE and ICSE schools to examine the cultural dynamics that shape how teachers, students and communities experience school life. The programme combined interactive activities and hands-on experiences with research-based insights, alongside dedicated opportunities for self-reflection.
 

A key theme emerging from the conference was the role of school leaders in shaping environments where teachers can thrive and do their best for students. The programme encouraged participants to engage with complex challenges facing school leaders, exchange perspectives with peers and connect research-based insights with the realities of their own school communities.
 

“Over the past few days, we’ve grappled with challenging issues facing leaders in schools globally and here in India. Our participants have brought such passion and purpose to the conference and there’s been a huge amount of shared learning. A key takeaway from the conference has been that there are no easy answers but that leaders play a decisive role in creating the culture and conditions in which teachers are able to thrive and do their best for students,” said Greg Ross, Director, Global Development of Educational Leadership, UCL Centre for Educational Leadership.

Vanita Uppal OBE, Director, The British School New Delhi said, “The three-day Leadership Development Conference, led by experts from the UCL Centre for Educational Leadership in partnership with The British School New Delhi, brought together educational leaders from across the country. The deliberations focused on the opportunities and challenges faced by leaders in developing brave and resilient organisational cultures where educators thrive and human flourishing is the key objective. Inspirational and thought-provoking, the discussions will hopefully cascade through learning communities across the country.”
 

In Picture: Gregory Ross, Programme Director, Global Development of Educational Leadership, UCL Institute of Education, taking a session during the conference
 

The conference brought together The British School New Delhi’s experience as one of the top international schools in India with the expertise of the UCL Centre for Educational Leadership. The project was supported by UCL Global Engagement, which is following its development closely.
 

The conference provided participants with fresh perspectives on leadership and the complexities of introducing change within different school contexts. Through research-informed sessions and discussions with fellow educational leaders, delegates had the opportunity to challenge existing assumptions, explore context-specific approaches to change and reflect on how they could apply their learning to their own leadership journeys.
 

The Leadership Development Conference reflects a shared commitment to supporting educational leaders as they navigate the cultural and organisational factors that influence school communities and shape the experiences of teachers and students.
 

About University College London (UCL)
UCL is a global top 10 university, set up in London 200 years ago to offer education for all. Today, we gather 60,000 staff and students, from over 150 countries, to create a unique city within a city – a research and innovation powerhouse that leads the world in subjects spanning the arts, sciences, technology and the humanities. We’ve nurtured 33 Nobel Prize winners, because here, brave ideas have the scale and the support they need to succeed. We are University College London. And here, it can happen. The UCL Institute of Education (IOE) is the world’s leading school of education and social science. In the 2026 QS subject rankings, the IOE was placed first in the world for education for the 13th consecutive year. 

For more information, please visit ucl.ac.uk.
 

About The British School New Delhi
The British School New Delhi is an inclusive, not-for-profit international school located in the heart of the diplomatic area of New Delhi. Founded in 1963 by the then British High Commissioner and his wife, the award-winning school offers high-quality education to British, expatriate and local families by drawing on the best facets of a rich and culturally diverse community. 

For more information, please visit www.british-school.org.

Sony India today announced the expansion of its BRAVIA Theatre portfolio with the launch of the Flagship model BRAVIA Theatre Trio alongside the BRAVIA Theatre Bar 7, BRAVIA Theatre Bar 5, BRAVIA Theatre Sub 9, BRAVIA Theatre Sub 8, BRAVIA Theatre Rear 9 and Rear 8. Designed to deliver an immersive cinematic experience at home. The new lineup combines Sony’s advanced audio innovations to create an expansive soundstage that faithfully reproduces the creator’s intended audio experience. At the heart of the portfolio is the BRAVIA Theatre Trio, a premium wireless home theatre system crafted for ultra-large screens and developed to bring an authentic cinema experience into the home. 

Sony India Expands BRAVIA Theatre Portfolio with New Immersive Audio Lineup for a Cinematic Home Entertainment Experience

Sunil Nayyar, Managing Director, Sony India said, “At Sony India, we continue to witness strong momentum in the premium home entertainment segment, driven by consumers’ growing preference for immersive, cinema-like experiences within their homes. The launch of BRAVIA Theatre Trio; BRAVIA Theatre Bar 7, BRAVIA Theatre Bar 5, BRAVIA Theatre Sub 9, BRAVIA Theatre Sub 8, and BRAVIA Theatre Rear 9 & 8 reflects our commitment to expanding the BRAVIA ecosystem and delivering seamlessly integrated audio-visual solutions that bring creators’ intent to life. Powered by Sony’s cutting-edge audio technologies, including 360 Spatial Sound Mapping and Dolby Atmos, this new lineup is designed to cater to a wide spectrum of consumers seeking exceptional sound performance, deeper bass, enhanced surround sound, seamless connectivity, and outstanding value. As the home entertainment category continues to preimmunize, we remain focused on driving innovation and setting new benchmarks in immersive entertainment experiences for Indian consumers.”

Nezu Daisuke, Global Head of Home Product Business Div., Home Entertainment Business Unit, Sony Corporation said, “As consumers increasingly aspire to recreate cinema-quality entertainment at home, the demand for immersive and seamlessly connected experiences continues to grow. At Sony, we are committed to delivering a complete entertainment ecosystem where picture, sound, and content work in perfect harmony to bring the creator’s vision to life. The launch of BRAVIA Theatre Trio, BRAVIA Theatre Bar 7 and BRAVIA Theatre Bar 5, BRAVIA Theatre Sub 9, BRAVIA Theatre Sub 8 and BRAVIA Theatre Rear 9 & Rear 8 further strengthens the BRAVIA ecosystem and underscores our commitment to driving innovation in premium home entertainment. India remains a strategic market for Sony, and we will continue to introduce category-leading technologies and experiences that set new benchmarks for home entertainment while addressing the evolving aspirations of consumers.”

BRAVIA Theatre Trio 

The BRAVIA Theatre Trio is Sony’s flagship wireless home theatre system, specifically designed for today’s ultra-large screen televisions. Unlike conventional soundbars that are limited by their physical width, the BRAVIA Theatre Trio combines dedicated left, centre and right speakers to create a significantly wider soundstage and more precise dialogue reproduction. With support for Dolby Atmos® and DTS®, along with seamless integration with compatible BRAVIA televisions, the Trio recreates the atmosphere of a movie theatre at home, offering exceptional clarity, depth, and realism across movies, music, and gaming content. Capable of creating upto 24 Phantom speakers when paired with Sub 9 and Rear 9.

BRAVIA Theatre Bar 7 

The BRAVIA Theatre Bar 7 delivers a premium home cinema experience through Sony’s advanced 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology, creating a wider and more immersive soundstage with virtual phantom speakers. Enhanced by Sony’s proprietary Sound Field Optimization, Dolby Atmos and IMAX Enhanced support, the soundbar recreates cinematic audio with remarkable depth and realism. Despite its sleek and compact design, the BRAVIA Theatre Bar 7 houses nine speaker units, including up-firing and side-firing speakers along with four passive radiators, enabling expansive surround sound and enhanced height effects that bring movies, sports and entertainment to life in the comfort of the living room.

BRAVIA Theatre Bar 5 

The BRAVIA Theatre Bar 5, a feature-rich soundbar designed to elevate home entertainment with immersive audio and enhanced voice clarity. Equipped with a wireless subwoofer (in package) and support for Dolby Atmos® and DTS:X®, the soundbar delivers a powerful cinematic experience through Sony’s proprietary Vertical Surround Engine and S-Force PRO Front Surround technologies, creating a spacious, virtual surround sound environment.

The 3.1-channel system includes a dedicated centre speaker for precise dialogue reproduction, while Voice Zoom 3, when paired with compatible BRAVIA TVs, further enhances speech clarity. Additional features such as Sony’s unique upmixer and Voice Mode ensure clear, balanced audio across a wide range of content, making the BRAVIA Theatre Bar 5 an ideal solution for consumers looking to upgrade their living room entertainment setup.

BRAVIA Theatre Sub 9  

The BRAVIA Theatre Sub 9, a premium wireless subwoofer engineered to deliver exceptionally deep, cinematic bass for home entertainment systems. Designed with an ultra-low-frequency response, the subwoofer enhances movie soundtracks, music, and gaming experiences with powerful, room-filling low-end performance. At its core is a high-output 600W amplifier paired with a dual-subwoofer configuration and vibration-cancelling dual opposing drivers, ensuring clean, controlled bass with minimal distortion. 

An aluminium speaker unit further contributes to accurate and dynamic sound reproduction. For added convenience, the BRAVIA Theatre Sub 9 offers seamless integration with compatible BRAVIA products through the BRAVIA Connect app and direct connection capabilities, enabling quick setup and intuitive operation for users seeking a more immersive home theatre experience.

BRAVIA Theatre Sub 8 

The BRAVIA Theatre Sub 8, Sony’s premium super deep bass subwoofer engineered to transform home entertainment with powerful, cinematic low-frequency performance. Designed to deliver deeper, richer bass with exceptional clarity, the Sub 8 features a high-output 300W amplifier, dual subwoofer configuration support, and a durable aluminium speaker unit for clean, distortion-free sound. Seamlessly integrating with compatible BRAVIA TVs through Direct Connect and the BRAVIA Connect App, it offers effortless setup and intuitive control. Whether enjoying blockbuster movies, live sports, or immersive gaming, the BRAVIA Theatre Sub 8 elevates every experience with room-filling bass and theatre quality audio.

BRAVIA Theatre Rear 9 

BRAVIA Theatre Rear 9 is Sony’s premium Rear speaker solution, designed with the same sophisticated design philosophy as the BRAVIA Theatre Trio to deliver a more immersive surround sound experience. Featuring large up-firing speakers and high-quality aluminium speaker units, the Rear 9 enhances spatial audio performance, bringing cinematic sound closer to home. Its sleek and compact design seamlessly integrates into modern living spaces, while wireless connectivity and a swivel wall-mount bracket offer flexible installation options. With support for the BRAVIA Connect App and direct connectivity with compatible BRAVIA products, the Rear 9 ensures effortless setup and intuitive operation for a truly elevated home entertainment experience.

BRAVIA Theatre Rear 8 

 Complementing the home theatre experience, the BRAVIA Theatre Rear 8 Wireless Rear Speakers are engineered to deliver enhanced surround sound with greater immersion and flexibility. Designed to pair seamlessly with compatible BRAVIA Theatre systems, the Rear 8 adds depth and spatial precision to the 

audio experience, enabling listeners to enjoy dynamic and room-filling sound. Its wireless design ensures easy setup and placement, while the premium acoustic performance elevates every scene with greater realism and cinematic impact.

BRAVIA Direct Connec

Sony also introduced BRAVIA Direct Connect, a unique feature that allows compatible BRAVIA televisions to connect directly with BRAVIA Theatre Subwoofers and Rear Speakers without requiring a soundbar. This provides customers with greater flexibility to enhance bass performance, expand surround sound, or gradually build a home theatre system based on their preferences and budget. With support for multiple configurations including TV + Subwoofer, TV + Rear Speakers and TV + Subwoofer + Rear Speakers, BRAVIA Direct Connect makes immersive home entertainment more accessible than ever.

Pricing and Availability:

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.

Sony India Pvt. Ltd.

A-18, Mohan Co-operative Industrial Estate, New Delhi – 44 | www.sony.co.in

New Toll Paid customer care no: 08065006500

Nestrov, a premier UAE-India-focused full-stack real estate advisory and brokerage firm, today announced plans to bring its international real estate expertise and cross-border investment network to India’s key markets. Targeting a USD 50 billion luxury brokerage opportunity across ultra-luxury and mid-luxury residential and commercial real estate segments, Nestrov is establishing offices in Mumbai and Thane, strengthening operations in Pune and Bengaluru, and planning its next expansion phase into Hyderabad.

Shivendra Singh, CEO of Nestrov Real Estate LLC, strengthens UAE–India real estate ties through established developer networks, international expertise and trusted advisory

Over the past seven years, Nestrov has built a robust multi-disciplinary real estate platform comprising core business verticals: Residential and Commercial Brokerage, Land Services, Industrial & Logistics, and Post-Sales Wealth Management Services. Headquartered in Dubai with established regional hubs, the firm has facilitated over 1,000 successful transactions valued in excess of USD 225 million. Supported by a workforce of over 150 real estate specialists, Nestrov delivers end-to-end investment, advisory, and asset management solutions tailored for developers, institutional investors, ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), and discerning home buyers.

Nestrov’s institutional approach and transparent governance have earned it elite channel partnership status with top-tier global developers across both geographies. Its marquee portfolio includes UAE powerhouses such as DAMAC, Emaar, Danube, Sobha Realty, Aldar, Binghatti, and Dubai Properties, alongside India’s industry leaders such as DLF, Godrej Properties, Prestige Group, Brigade Group, Hiranandani, Shapoorji Pallonji, and Sobha Limited. Leveraging these established developer relationships and international expertise, the firm aims to strengthen UAE–India real estate synergies, creating seamless cross-border investment opportunities through its customer-centric advisory approach.

“Having established a formidable market presence across Dubai and Pune, our strategic mandate is to deepen our footprint in India’s most dynamic real estate corridors. India’s macro-economic resilience, surging UHNWI wealth creation, and strong homeownership sentiment present an unprecedented USD 50 billion opportunity across the ultra-luxury and mid-luxury brokerage segments.

Our expansion into Mumbai, Thane, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad is not merely about geographic scaling; it is about deploying our proven cross-border advisory model to bridge international capital flows with India’s premium real estate assets. By combining deep local market intelligence with global standards of transparency, technology, and governance, Nestrov is uniquely positioned to empower investors and redefine real estate advisory standards across the region,” said Shivendra Singh, CEO, Nestrov Real Estate LLC.

To drive this high-growth trajectory and support its geographic expansion, Nestrov has initiated a wide-scale nationwide recruitment drive to onboard over 250 real estate professionals across various senior, mid-level, and entry-level positions. The firm is heavily investing in human capital by rolling out comprehensive training, structured mentorship programs, and competitive compensation architectures featuring fixed salary structures paired with industry-leading performance incentives.

Central to Nestrov’s talent retention and leadership strategy is the newly launched High Potential (HIPO) Program. Designed to identify, nurture, and fast-track top-performing advisors, the program offers structured international mobility and deputation opportunities across Nestrov’s cross-border office networks, fostering a truly global advisory force.

About Nestrov Real Estate LLC

Nestrov Real Estate LLC is a premier UAE-India-focused, technology-enabled real estate consulting and investment advisory firm operating across major financial hubs including Dubai, Mumbai, Pune, and Bengaluru, with strategic plans underway to expand its presence into Hyderabad. Backed by a dedicated team of over 150 industry professionals and strategic alliances with top-tier developers, Nestrov delivers tailor-made investment, advisory, and portfolio management solutions across primary and secondary markets.

Leveraging institutional-grade data analytics, digital marketing engines, and robust cross-border investor pipelines, Nestrov consistently outperforms market benchmarks. Built on principles of integrity, agility, and long-term value creation, the firm continues to establish a high-performance ecosystem for investors, developers, and homebuyers worldwide.

Law student and grassroots social worker Namaha, founder of NAMAHA, today set out his vision for citizen protection in Bharat. A single digital fraud, an unexpected legal crisis or a sudden loss of income can push an ordinary family into serious financial hardship, and most citizens face such moments without any structured support.

NAMAHA, Petitioner for Bharat

Drawing on the Ayushman Bharat model of financial protection for health, Namaha proposes examining a Bharat Citizen Protection Insurance framework built on five pillars: legal protection, cyber and identity protection, income protection, personal liability and financial continuity. Support would apply only to defined events, within set limits and eligibility rules.

Under the proposed framework, citizens facing UPI or digital fraud would have access to cyber and identity protection for defined fraud losses and identity misuse. Currently, citizens can report fraud immediately through helpline 1930 or at cybercrime.gov.in, although recovery is not guaranteed. For a legal crisis or arrest, the proposal envisages guidance, advocate coordination and assistance with defined legal expenses, in addition to statutory legal aid and not as a replacement for it. Citizens already have a constitutional right to a lawyer of their choice, while eligible persons can access free legal aid through Legal Services Authorities via the NALSA helpline 15100.

The framework also proposes temporary income protection where income loss follows a defined insured event. At present, support for loss of income depends largely on the employer or specific schemes. For loan EMIs during a crisis, where assistance currently depends on the lender and no general safety net exists, the proposed financial continuity component would help with eligible loan instalments. Personal liability cover within specified limits is also proposed to address accidental harm to others, for which protection largely depends on private insurance, where held.

Namaha proposes examining a Bharatiya Citizen Protection Act as a legal basis for accessible support during defined legal, cyber and financial crises, with clear eligibility criteria, limits and safeguards. He also calls for a Bharatiya Police Act centred on citizen rights, transparent procedures, grievance redressal and accountability, and a Bharatiya Education Act establishing a coherent framework for equal opportunity, quality standards, skill development and institutional accountability. A Bharatiya Petroleum Act is also proposed to modernise legal and regulatory oversight of the petroleum sector, alongside reforms in other essential sectors wherever warranted.

All Act names above are Namaha’s suggestions for public debate. None of them is an existing or enacted law.

The proposals draw on existing constitutional guarantees. Article 14 provides for equality before the law and equal protection of the laws. Article 21 protects life and personal liberty. Article 22(1) provides an arrested person the right to consult and be defended by a legal practitioner of their choice. Article 39A directs the State to secure equal justice and free legal aid. Namaha argues that these guarantees must be matched by practical, accessible support. Renaming laws alone is not reform; meaningful change requires clear responsibilities, transparent procedures and grievance systems that work.

“A citizen in crisis needs more than advice. We need a system that provides meaningful support, protects people from defined legal and financial risks, and holds institutions accountable. The objective is to make citizen protection accessible, practical and grounded in the rule of law,” says Namaha, Founder of NAMAHA.

Namaha calls for a feasibility study and controlled pilot of the Bharat Citizen Protection Insurance framework, involving the Government, IRDAI, licensed insurers and banks. He also proposes public consultation and actuarial assessment to determine coverage, premiums, eligibility and benefits before any wider rollout. The proposed framework would extend citizen protection beyond health and life insurance to defined legal and digital crises. In parallel, he calls for reforms to police, education and other essential-sector laws so that rights translate into accessible procedures and measurable institutional responsibilities.

Durga Puja is a celebration of devotion, family and togetherness, bringing homes and communities together to welcome Maa Durga. As families come together to prepare for the water supports many of the rituals and household activities that help bring the celebrations to life. Building on this deep connection between the everyday and the festive, Crompton Pumps has launched an AI-powered digital film for Durga Puja, placing its comprehensive range of smart water management solutions at the heart of the festive narrative.

Crompton showcases IntelliSense FLO in its AI-powered Durga Puja film

For decades, Crompton Pumps has been a silent enabler in Indian homes – working quietly and smartly to simplify everyday life while being an integral part of special occasions and celebrations. Today, Crompton offers a wide range of pumping solutions that cater to diverse consumer needs – Residential Pumps for homes, Agricultural Pumps for farming communities, Specialty Pumps for specific applications, and now, Smart & Connected Control Panels that bring automation and intelligence to water management. This comprehensive ecosystem reflects Crompton’s commitment to addressing every water-related need across different walks of life.

With its latest campaign, Crompton reinforces how the brand has constantly attempted to transform a functional category into a consumer-centric experience. By introducing smart technology and connected solutions, Crompton has evolved from merely providing pumps to offering complete water management ecosystems that understand and adapt to consumer lifestyles. At the centre of this Durga Puja story is Crompton IntelliSense FLO, a smart wired Water Level Controller that exemplifies this consumer-first approach by detecting water flow from the municipal water supply before operating the pump.

Speaking about the campaign, Tanmay Prusty, Chief Marketing Officer, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd., said, “Durga Puja is a celebration of devotion, family and togetherness, and at Crompton Pumps, we’ve always aspired to be more than just a product provider – we aim to be a trusted partner in our consumers’ everyday lives and special celebrations. As a category, pumps have traditionally been viewed as purely functional, but we have been constantly evolving to change that perception. From our comprehensive range – Residential, Agricultural, Specialty Pumps to Smart & Connected Control Panels – our products continue to innovate with smarter, more connected solutions. Equally, as a brand, we are experimenting boldly with AI-powered storytelling to reimagine consumer engagement in what has been a low-involvement category. Crompton has been a silent enabler across festivals and everyday living, and we remain committed to innovating relentlessly – not just in our product offerings, but in delivering a trouble-free, delightful experience at every touchpoint. This AI-powered film captures the spirit of Durga Puja preparations and the meaningful role water plays in bringing celebrations to life, reflecting our dual commitment to innovation in products and experience, while staying true to our promise of ‘Trusted Performance, Har Din.”

Set against the backdrop of Durga Puja, the film opens with the aangan being cleaned and alpana being created as preparations begin for Maa Durga’s arrival. It then moves through the making of bhog, serving of prasad and filling of the ghot, before the puja comes alive with the sound of dhaak and dhunuchi. Taking viewers from Shashti to Dashmi, from Maa’s arrival to her farewell, the film captures the many rituals and preparations that shape the celebration. As the festivities unfold, Crompton Pumps becomes the trusted “paani ka Saathi” through every rasam and taiyaari – working intelligently and seamlessly to ensure water is available exactly when needed. The film beautifully showcases how smart technology blends into cultural traditions, making preparations simpler. It culminates in the brand promise of “Trusted Performance, Har Din” – a commitment that extends across Crompton’s entire range of pumping solutions and control panels.

The film will run across Crompton’s digital and social platforms throughout the festive period. Marking Crompton’s fourth film leveraging the power of AI in its festive campaigns, the initiative reflects the brand’s continued focus on combining technology with culturally relevant storytelling to create engaging consumer experiences. Through this campaign, Crompton aims to build a stronger connection with consumers by bringing its comprehensive pumping ecosystem into the cultural moments that shape their celebrations, while highlighting how the brand continues to innovate – from traditional pumps to smart, connected solutions – to make both everyday living and special occasions more effortful and delightful.

Film Link: 
YouTube: youtu.be/TTIWEPOOyO8?si=1vkYATlnCYCv1s_y 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/reel/DeUZ81XBDTD/?obrf=ampmbzhmd2Fpa3Zi 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/share/v/1DMovBWXan/?mibextid=wwXIfr 

About Crompton
With a brand legacy of over 85 years, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd. is India’s market leader in the category of fans and residential pumps. Over the years, the organization has continuously strived to produce a range of innovative products that cater to the modern consumer including superior quality and high-performance fans, pumps, lighting solutions, and a range of other categories like water heaters; air coolers; small kitchen appliances like mixer grinders, air fryers, OTG, electric kettles etc; other home appliances like irons & built-in kitchen appliances. The company has further invested in brand and innovation to not only better understand and meet consumer needs but to also help drive energy efficiency. The consumer business also has a well-established and organized distribution network driven by a strong dealer base across the country offering a wide service network and robust after-sales service to its customers. Beyond its consumer portfolio, Crompton also has a robust B2B presence in the Lighting segment, delivering advanced and energy-efficient solutions for commercial and industrial applications. In 2025, Crompton became the first lighting company to receive the GreenPro certification for its B2B lighting solution, reaffirming its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Strengthening its foothold in the renewable energy space, the company has forayed into solar rooftops—representing a significant step forward in its contribution to India’s evolving clean energy landscape. With solar solutions spanning lighting, pumps, and rooftops, Crompton continues to lead as a responsible and future-ready brand in sustainable energy.

The company’s consistent dedication to developing energy-efficient products has led to significant recognition. It has been honored with three prestigious National Energy Consumer Awards (NECA) by BEE, Ministry of Power. The recent award was presented by the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu for the company’s storage water heater in 2023. In 2019, the brand won in two categories: Ceiling Fans and LED Bulbs. Additionally, it was recognized as one of India’s Best Managed Companies 2022 by Deloitte Private and listed among ‘India’s Top 500 Companies 2022’ by Dun & Bradstreet India. The company has also been featured in Brand Top 75 most valuable Indian brands list for 2020 released by WPP and Kantar. Furthermore, Crompton was also recognized as the Brand of the Decade 2021 by Herald Global and BARC Asia in the Consumer Electrical category.