Renowned film actress Neha Saxena has been appointed as the new brand ambassador for Quikzii.com, the UK’s favourite delivery platform. Neha Saxena has become a beloved figure among Indian audiences through her notable performances in Malayalam, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi cinema. She is well-known for her prominent roles in hit films such as Kasaba alongside Mammootty, Munthirivallikal Thalirkkumbol and Aaraattu with Mohanlal, Dandu in Kannada, Lalbagh in Telugu, and Chef alongside Saif Ali Khan in Hindi. Beyond acting, Neha possesses a strong background in sales and is a highly proven professional in project management and sales management. Quikzii officials stated that Neha’s professional excellence in business communication, combined with her widespread popularity, will help make the brand’s communication more heartfelt and engaging.

Renowned actress Neha Saxena unveiled as the new face of Quikzii.com, the UK’s fast-growing delivery platform

Launched in the UK in December 2025, Quikzii has successfully completed 6 months of operation, earning the trust of its customers. The delivery platform is spearheaded by Sarath Jose, a prominent entrepreneur and investor with years of rich experience in FMCG, FMCD, and retail management. Quikzii’s comprehensive product range has been carefully curated by understanding the exact daily needs, culinary preferences, and lifestyles of various diaspora communities in the UK, including Malayali, South and North Indian, Arabic, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, South Asian, and African communities.

Powered by modern technology, Quikzii operates through two distinct delivery models. The first is the ’24-Hour Delivery’ system, which ensures ordered products reach customers within 24 hours. Additionally, Quikzii offers a superfast ‘1-Hour Delivery’ service in selected cities across the UK, delivering products to doorsteps within an hour. Customers can quickly order a wide array of essentials through Quikzii, ranging from fresh vegetables, fruits, high-quality meat, fish, and groceries, to fashion & trendy fabrics, electronics, mobile accessories, small appliances, and office stationery.

The platform has introduced numerous attractive offers and benefits for its users. Highlighting these is ‘The First 100‘ offer, where 100 selected customers will receive a specific product of their choice with completely free delivery. Additionally, the ‘Refer & Earn’ scheme allows users to earn ‘Super Coins’ by referring friends, which can be redeemed for excellent cash discounts during purchases. Beyond this, Quikzii provides special loyalty programs, cashback offers, membership programs that offer exclusive benefits and priorities, and enticing seasonal discounts.

Sarath Jose, Founder and CEO of Quikzii, stated that the platform aims to elevate the shopping culture in the UK to a new level by blending high quality with high-speed service. He emphasized that the brand’s mission is to make the customer shopping experience more expansive, rapid, and trustworthy. Customers can order products with just a single click via the website quikzii.com, or through the Quikzii mobile app available on both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

With the RBI repo rate held at 5.25% in June 2026, home loan rates remain stable, and borrowing up to Rs. 15 crore is within reach for eligible applicants. Review what you qualify for before you choose a lender.

Home loan demand rises in 2026 as Indian homebuyers explore affordable financing options

More Indian households are actively seeking home loans in 2026, driven by stabilising interest rates, rising incomes, and growing housing demand in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. The RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee held its repo rate at 5.25% in June 2026, which has helped keep home loan rates of interest relatively stable for borrowers.
 

A home loan today can go up to Rs. 15 crore* with a tenure of up to 32 years*. EMIs can start as low as Rs. 671 per lakh*. But affordability depends on more than just the rate – your income, credit score, existing obligations, and down payment all shape what you can actually borrow. This article walks you through each of these factors so you can make a clear, informed decision.

Why is home loan demand rising in 2026?
Several factors have come together to make 2026 a particularly active year for home loan applications across India.

• Stable repo rate: The RBI’s MPC voted unanimously to hold the policy repo rate at 5.25% in June 2026. This gives lenders room to maintain current lending rates, and borrowers can plan their finances with more certainty.

• Improving affordability: With income levels rising in urban and semi-urban areas, monthly EMI payments now represent a smaller share of household income for many buyers than they did three years ago.

• Growing housing demand: India’s urban population continues to expand. Demand for owned homes, not rented ones, has increased, especially among households in the 30-45 age group.

• First-time buyers entering the market: Many first-time homebuyers who postponed purchases between 2022 and 2024 are now actively looking, supported by better loan products and longer tenures.

• Tier 2 and Tier 3 city growth: Cities like Lucknow, Coimbatore, Rajkot, and Nagpur are seeing a sharp rise in housing projects and home loan applications. Lower property prices in these markets make entry more accessible, and lenders are expanding their reach into these geographies.

How does the home loan rate of interest affect what you can buy?
The rate of interest on your home loan directly changes what you pay each month and how much the loan costs you over its full life. Here is how each element is affected.
 

• EMI: A lower rate means a smaller monthly payment. On a Rs. 50 lakh loan over 20 years, the difference between 7.25% p.a. and 8.5% p.a. amounts to over Rs. 4,100 per month.

• Total interest paid: Over 20 years, even a 0.5% difference in rate can add up to several lakhs. 

• Monthly budget impact: A higher rate can push your EMI above what fits your monthly income, forcing you to either reduce the loan amount or extend the tenure.

• Loan eligibility with the same income: Lenders calculate eligibility partly based on whether your EMI will exceed a set percentage of your monthly income. A lower rate increases your eligible loan amount without requiring a higher income.

• Tenure choice: When rates are lower, you can comfortably opt for a shorter tenure and save on total interest. When rates are higher, a longer tenure may be the only way to keep the EMI manageable, but that trade-off increases your total borrowing cost.

What makes a home loan affordable for you?
Rate alone does not determine whether a home loan fits your life. Six factors shape your actual affordability.

• Income: Lenders typically allow an EMI of up to 40-50% of your net monthly income. A higher income gives you access to a larger loan at any given rate.

• Existing obligations: If you already have a car loan, personal loan, or credit card debt, these reduce the EMI capacity available for a home loan. Clearing smaller debts before applying can improve your eligible loan amount.

• Credit score: A CIBIL Score of 725 or above is generally required for home loan approval. Scores above 750 can help you access better rates. A score below 700 can result in rejection or a higher rate of interest.

• Down payment: Lenders in India fund up to 80% of the property value, as per RBI guidelines. The remaining 20% is your down payment. A larger down payment reduces your loan amount and, consequently, your EMI and total interest.

• Property value: The market value and location of the property affect how much a lender will sanction. Properties in approved projects often get faster processing.

Scenario: Take Richa, 34, a salaried employee in Pune with a CIBIL Score of 760 and a stable monthly income. She earns Rs. 1.20 lakh per month and wants to buy a flat worth Rs. 80 lakh. With a 20% down payment of Rs. 16 lakh, she needs a loan of Rs. 64 lakh. She’s comparing two tenure options on a Rs. 50 lakh home loan at 7.50% p.a.:
 

 
Her EMI for a 20-year tenure is approximately 43% of her monthly income – within a typical lender’s threshold. If she extends the tenure to 25 years, the EMI drops to approximately 39.4% of her monthly income, giving her more monthly room. But over 25 years versus 20, she pays Rs. 18.15 lakh more in interest. 

Richa’s decision will depend on whether she is comfortable with her current income absorbing the higher EMI, or whether she’d rather keep her monthly outgo lower and use the freed-up cash for other goals. A CIBIL Score above 725 puts her in a strong position to negotiate better terms.

What should you compare before choosing a home loan?
It’s easy to focus on the rate alone, but the overall cost of a home loan includes fees, penalties, and conditions that vary significantly across lenders.
 

Reviewing all six before you apply can save you a significant amount over the loan term.

What financing options are available today?
If you are looking to buy a home, refinance an existing loan, or access additional funds, there are three structured options from Bajaj Finance worth knowing about.

 
Bajaj Finance offers home loans of up to Rs. 15 crore*, with tenures extending to 32 years* and approval in 48 hours* of application. A top-up loan of up to Rs. 1 crore* is available for balance transfer customers, usable for home repairs, medical expenses, or other needs. Interest rates for salaried applicants starting at 7.25%* p.a.

There’s no foreclosure charge for individual borrowers who choose a floating interest rate, which is a meaningful saving if you plan to repay early.

Who can apply?
Check these criteria before you apply. Meeting them clearly improves your chances of approval and can reduce processing time.
 

How to apply for your Bajaj Finance Home Loan online
 

• Click on the ‘APPLY’ button on the Bajaj Finance home loan page.

• Enter your full name, mobile number, and employment type.

• Select the type of loan you wish to apply for: fresh, balance transfer, or top-up.

• Generate and submit your OTP to verify your phone number.

• After OTP verification, enter your monthly income, required loan amount, and confirm whether you’ve identified the property.

• Enter your date of birth, PAN, and other details as requested based on your occupation type.

• Click ‘SUBMIT.’

• A Bajaj Finance representative will contact you and guide you through the next steps.

Is now a reasonable time to apply?
Affordability in 2026 is not just about finding the lowest home loan rate of interest – it depends equally on your tenure choice, total borrowing cost, credit profile, and down payment. Before you apply, compare processing fees and foreclosure terms alongside the rate, and calculate total interest across different tenures. Review your eligibility criteria to avoid unnecessary credit enquiries. If you are ready to take the next step, the Bajaj Finance Home Loan offers amounts up to Rs. 15 crore*, tenure of up to 32 years*, and approval within 48 hours* – check your eligibility and apply online today.

For years, Noida stood in the shadow of Gurugram. It was more affordable and more practical, yet rarely seen as aspirational a perception that is now steadily changing. Along the Noida Expressway, a new narrative is emerging. What once attracted buyers for value is now shaping into a more intentional and refined residential landscape. Luxury residential developments are rising with increasing confidence, HNIs and NRIs are committing capital with long-term intent, and sectors that were peripheral addresses 5 years ago are now being discussed in the same register as NCR’s most established luxury destinations. 

Noida Expressway is rapidly redefining luxury living in NCR, driven by world-class infrastructure, rising investor confidence, and premium residential developments

The infrastructure driving this shift is both specific and substantial. The Noida-Greater Noida Expressway ensures smooth connectivity southward, thereby connecting the belt not only to Delhi but also to the Yamuna Expressway and the Noida International Airport at Jewar, which will be operational and set to emerge as one of India’s largest aviation hubs. Simultaneously, the last-mile connectivity is being upgraded by the extended metro network through Aqua Line, which has augured well for the realty sectors’ growth. 

According to the Residential Market Viewpoints report compiled by ANAROCK, Q1 2026 witnessed approximately 15,200 units sold compared to Q1 2025, which is an increase of 21%, while new launches also witnessed a y-o-y increase of 44%. Amidst this, the Noida Expressway corridor stands out, supported by the constantly progressing infrastructure developments. At the micro-market level, Sector 150 has emerged as one of the clearest indicators of where the Noida Expressway’s luxury residential story is headed. Designed with an expansive green cover, with a significant portion of its footprint dedicated to open spaces, the sector has steadily attracted CXOs, senior professionals, NRIs, and long-term investors. Importantly, these buyers are not viewing it as an alternative to more established addresses, but increasingly as a deliberate first choice.

According to ANAROCK, average property prices in Sector 150 have shot up by 128% over the past 3 years from Rs 5,700 per square feet in late 2021 to Rs 13,000 per square feet by the end of 2024. Rental values grew by 66% during the same period. Prateek Group has been one of the leading developers, with one of its flagship projects in Sec-150, scripting the luxury residential story of the Noida Expressway corridor. Prateek Canary in Sector 150 is a well-thought-out blend of low-density planning, large green areas, high-end amenities, and a location offering seamless connectivity as well as an exclusive lifestyle experience. The project is currently priced at around Rs. 19,000 per sq ft, with good appreciation potential expected to touch Rs. 25,000 per sq ft. and beyond by possession in 2027, driven by its location, product quality, and brand trust.

The Jewar Airport corridor’s lifestyle quotient, appreciation potential and long-term economic viability is now witnessing high-net-worth individuals, NRIs and senior professionals undertaking a significant chunk of luxury transactions along the expressway. Prateek Canary, catering to the aspirations of HNI buyers, offers a unique dual-view advantage that allows residents to enjoy uninterrupted panoramic golf views on one side and the serene Yamuna & Hindon River on the other, providing breathtaking views and a truly tranquil living experience. As the corridor continues to attract discerning homebuyers and investors, Prateek Group is likely to soon introduce an ultra-luxury development in the region, which will further uplift the luxury narrative here.

Looking ahead, the Noida Expressway corridor is entering a phase where supply quality will determine which developments sustain luxury positioning and which do not. The corridor is not at the end of its appreciation cycle. It is, in all likelihood, approaching its most consequential phase — one where infrastructure that was once anticipated is now delivering, and where the buyers arriving today are doing so with a clarity of intent that the market has rarely seen before.

As Central Noida continues to evolve into one of NCR’s most sought-after business and lifestyle hubs, Anthurium by Sundream Group has emerged as one of the region’s most active and thriving mixed-use commercial destinations. Strategically located in Sector 73, Noida, Anthurium has successfully transformed into a vibrant ecosystem where businesses, professionals, retailers, entrepreneurs, and consumers converge every day.
 

Anthurium Redefines Commercial Real Estate in Central Noida with Retail, Offices, Dining and Lifestyle Experiences Under One Roof

What sets Anthurium apart is not merely its infrastructure, but the fact that it is already a living, breathing commercial hub with more than 300 operational offices and a growing lineup of nationally recognized retail and food & beverage brands. Unlike many commercial projects that continue to await occupancy, Anthurium is already witnessing strong daily footfall, active business operations, and a dynamic community of professionals and visitors.

Today, leading brands such as McDonald’s, KFC, Barista and several other renowned retail and food chains have chosen Anthurium as their address, reinforcing its position as one of the most preferred commercial destinations in Central Noida. The presence of these established brands has not only enhanced consumer engagement but has also created a complete work-live-leisure environment for office occupants and nearby residents.

Developed by Sundream Group, Anthurium spans nearly five acres of prime three-side open land and offers a thoughtfully curated blend of premium office spaces, high-street retail, restaurants, cafés, wellness facilities, rooftop dining experiences, and community spaces.

Its strategic location in the heart of Central Noida gives it a significant competitive advantage. Situated amidst a dense residential catchment and enjoying seamless connectivity through the Sector 52 Metro Station, FNG Corridor, and DND Flyway, Anthurium benefits from a large captive audience comprising residents, working professionals, entrepreneurs, and daily commuters.

The project has been conceptualized to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses and consumers who increasingly seek integrated destinations rather than standalone office buildings or isolated retail centres. From morning coffee meetings and business interactions to evening dining and family outings, Anthurium remains active throughout the day, creating a sustainable ecosystem that supports both commercial and retail success.

Adding to its appeal is its future-ready infrastructure, AI-enabled workspace environment, platinum-rated green building credentials, premium architecture, landscaped public spaces, rooftop sky gardens, and lifestyle-oriented amenities that elevate the overall experience for occupiers and visitors alike.

Industry trends continue to indicate a strong preference for mixed-use developments that combine commercial, retail, hospitality, and social infrastructure. Anthurium is among the few projects in Central Noida that has successfully translated this vision into reality, evidenced by its growing occupancy levels, operational offices, and strong retail presence.

As Noida continues its journey towards becoming one of India’s most important business and investment destinations, Anthurium stands out as a benchmark for next-generation commercial development – offering businesses a prestigious address, retailers a high-footfall environment, and consumers a destination that seamlessly blends work, dining, shopping, and leisure.

With over 300 operational offices, marquee brands including McDonald’s, KFC, Domino’s and Barista, premium commercial infrastructure, and a strategic Central Noida location, Anthurium today represents not just a commercial project, but one of the most successful and vibrant business destinations in the region.

For more information, please visit www.anthurium.in.

The BYU Ballroom Dance Company lit up stages in India for the first time, enchanting over 1,000 audience members with show-stopping performances held on 4 and 6 June 2026 in the nation’s capital and a grand finale in Bengaluru on 9 June. Distinguished guests, including government, interfaith, and community leaders, were among the crowd, dazzled by the performances.
 

Audiences in New Delhi and Bengaluru were mesmerized by the elegance and precision of the BYU Ballroom Dance Company’s performances

“It was superb,” said India Foundation Executive Vice President Alok Bansal. “Not only the performance, but everything was so well-coordinated. Here, the whole team was in synchronization. It actually was amazing. It requires immense practice and confidence in one another, and that was very clearly visible. I think audience reaction was superb.”
 

For their performances in India, the BYU Ballroom Dance Company seamlessly blended ballroom dance with Indian cultural elements, drawing an effusive response from the audience

The three shows were presented shortly after the Company’s success at the prestigious Blackpool Dance Festival, where they swept the British Championships again in both Ballroom and Latin Formations. Whether competing in London or performing in India, the internationally acclaimed ensemble consistently wowed audiences with its creative blend of standard ballroom and Latin styles. From the Waltz, Tango, and Quickstep to the Lindyhop and Samba, the student dancers surpassed cultural boundaries on the dance floor, show after show.

“It was truly spectacular. Every movement was executed beautifully, and the storytelling was so powerful that it kept me completely engaged throughout,” said media consultant Poonam Kashyap from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, who partnered the performances.
 

Every performance by the BYU Ballroom Dance Company in India concluded with a standing ovation. Their respect for the country and genuine desire to connect were evident as the student dancers embraced the people and culture

As the Company’s premiere performances in India, the shows filled theaters with standing ovations. Attendees left feeling mesmerized by the dedication and pure passion of the performances, with a newfound love for the art form. Many expressed appreciation for the opportunity to enjoy high-caliber performing arts with such cultural heritage at no cost.

Beyond the stage, the 32 dancers participated in meaningful cultural exchanges with classical Indian dancers from the illustrious Triveni Kala Sangam, and heartfelt interactions with mentally challenged patients at the Missionaries of Charity home in Old Delhi. These experiences fostered mutual understanding and strengthened connections between the visiting students and the people they met.

“All of us tried to coordinate and learn each other’s culture and traditions,” shared Acharya Jayalakshmi Eshwar, renowned head of the Bharatanatyam department at the dance institution. “It was like one family then we came together, exchanging our artistic ideas. It was very, very beautiful – a great experience.”

“India’s rich cultural heritage and extraordinary hospitality have made a lasting impression on our students and faculty,” said Curt Holman, Artistic Director of the Company. “The arts create connections that transcend language, reminding us that we have far more in common than we often realize.“

He added, “Our time in India has been life-changing for the students. Not only have they been able to share their dance talents, but they have gained a new perspective on life as they have personally connected with audience members. This will be a memory never to forget.”

Follow them on social media:
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Galgotias University and 247VC, a leading seed stage venture capital fund, today announced a long term partnership. The collaboration encompasses the launch of the Entrepreneurship & Venture Excellence (EVE) Program, a structured initiative designed to equip students with startup-building frameworks, investor mentorship, and access to institutional capital.

Galgotias University and 247VC partner to bring a new dimension to campus entrepreneurship through startup mentorship and venture funding opportunities

“Our partnership with 247VC is a one-of-its-kind initiative where a venture capital fund will have an active engagement presence within the University ecosystem itself, enabling students to interact directly with investors, startup mentors, founder networks, and venture-building experts. As part of this initiative, the University will facilitate dedicated on-campus engagement spaces to enable regular interaction between students and venture capital professionals. Having venture capital presence directly on campus will help students move ideas, research, and prototypes closer to real-world execution, mentorship, and venture creation,” – Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University.

The partnership is designed to bridge a critical gap in entrepreneurship education within Indian universities by providing students with practical, investor-validated frameworks rather than theoretical knowledge.

“We are truly elated to partner with a premier institution like Galgotias University. With its 50,000+ students, across various disciplines, having state of the art technologies available to them, this collaboration presents a unique opportunity to nurture the next gen of entrepreneurs. This model will become a blueprint for how universities should partner with venture capital. We’re committed to bringing our real-world venture investing experience and our deep founder networks directly to Galgotias’ students, transforming entrepreneurship from an aspiration into a structured, achievable outcome.” – Yagnesh Sanghrajka, Managing Partner, 247VC.

About Galgotias University

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

In the QS World University Rankings 2026 by Quacquarelli Symonds, Galgotias University was placed in the 1201-1400 global band and ranked 15th among private universities and 43rd among all universities in India. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the University was placed in the 1201-1500 global band and ranked 27th among private universities and 65th among all universities in India. The University is also accredited with NAAC A+, one of India’s highest institutional quality ratings.

Galgotias University offers programmes across engineering, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, business, law, media, design, health sciences, hospitality, liberal education, and emerging interdisciplinary domains. In 2026, students secured more than 5,100 job offers from over 1,250 recruiters. The University has built strong industry and innovation partnerships with organisations including Apple, Infosys, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, and Salesforce, while continuing to strengthen its global academic engagement and startup ecosystem.

About 247VC

247VC, founded by Operator VCs Yagnesh Sanghrajka and Shashank Randev, is a seed-stage technology focused venture capital firm backing legendary founders building for India’s next decade. The fund invests in key themes such as Advanced Manufacturing, Frontier / Deep tech, Enterprise Tech, and Consumer Tech, with initial cheque size between INR 4 to 5 crores with an appetite for follow-on capital. 247VC, registered as Category 2 AIF has a target corpus of INR 250 crores. Yagnesh Sanghrajka and Shashank Randev together with the core team bring over 30 years of operating and 20 years of venture investing experience.

Interior My Room by Rawat, a customised furniture and interior solutions company driven by cutting-edge technology and precision craftsmanship, has announced the launch of its third studio in Kharadi, Pune. Having delivered over 10,000 customised modular kitchens and more than 1 crore sq. ft. of crafted furniture, the brand continues to champion personalised living spaces designed around the lifestyles, aspirations, and preferences of its customers.

(LTR) – Amey Achuthan – MD, Tejashree Rawat – Director, Jayashree Rawat Amey – Director, Mukta Sarkar – Director

Founded in 2020, Interior My Room by Rawat has rapidly established itself as a trusted name in India’s interior design and furniture solutions industry. At the heart of its operations is a 1 lakh sq. ft. manufacturing facility located on the Pune–Bengaluru Highway, equipped with advanced German and Italian machinery from globally renowned brands including Burkle, Biesse, Felder, Holzher, and Homag. With the capability to process over 10,000 sq. ft. of panels daily, the company operates through a robust hub-and-spoke model, efficiently serving both B2B and B2C customers.

The newly launched Kharadi studio joins the company’s existing factory-cum-showroom on the Pune–Bengaluru Highway and its studio in Bavdhan, further strengthening its presence across Pune. Designed as immersive experience centres, the studios showcase the company’s expertise in customised interiors, modular kitchens, wardrobes, and bespoke furniture collections across a range of finishes, styles, and design concepts.

Led by founders Amey Achuthan, Jayashree Rawat Amey, Mukta Sarkar, and Tejashree Rawat, Interior My Room has steadily built a distinctive identity in Pune and Maharashtra through a design philosophy centred on innovation, precision, quality, and trust.

Commenting on the launch, Mukta Sarkar, Director, Interior My Room, said, “At Interior My Room, we believe every home should be a reflection of the people who live in it. Our approach combines refined aesthetics with intuitive functionality to create spaces that are both beautiful and deeply personal. The launch of our Kharadi studio is an extension of this vision, enabling us to engage more closely with customers and deliver customised solutions that truly resonate with their lifestyles and aspirations.”

Interior My Room was among the early adopters of customised modular furniture technology in India. Over the years, the company has partnered with leading real estate developers including Godrej Properties, Amanora Park Town, and Solitaire; educational institutions such as Symbiosis International University and FLAME University; and brands including Bajaj and Force Motors, while also collaborating with prominent architects and design firms to deliver high-quality interior and furniture solutions.

About Interior My Room
Interior My Room was incorporated in 2020, and the company has emerged as a rising leader in Pune’s interior design space since 2021. Rooted in the Rawat family’s long-standing furniture legacy, the brand has transformed countless homes with designs that balance modern elegance and functional precision. From custom-crafted furniture to complete interior solutions, Interior My Room continues to uphold a tradition where innovation meets integrity, combining decades of expertise with a fresh and contemporary design outlook.

For more information, please visit – interiormyroom.com

Home loan interest rates in India are shaped by the RBI repo rate, your CIBIL Score, and loan tenure. Use an EMI calculator to estimate costs before you apply.

In summary
Home loan interest rates in 2026 are influenced by a mix of macroeconomic signals and your personal financial profile. The RBI held its repo rate at 5.25% in June 2026, which affects how lenders price their products. Your CIBIL Score, income stability, loan amount, and the property you choose all play a role in the final rate you’re offered.

Home loan interest rate updates 2026: key factors influencing housing loan costs this year

On a Rs. 50 lakh loan over 20 years, a difference of just 1% in your interest rate changes your EMI by over Rs. 3,000 per month – and your total interest outgo by over Rs. 7 lakh. Using an EMI calculator for home loan planning helps you see this clearly before you commit. This article covers what’s moving rates this year, how to assess your own position, and how to compare options with numbers.

What’s affecting home loan interest rates in 2026?
Home loan interest rates don’t move in isolation. They shift with broader monetary policy, inflation trends, and banking system conditions. Understanding these can help you time your decision better.

The repo rate signal
Per the RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee announcement on 5 June 2026, the policy repo rate was kept unchanged at 5.25%. The MPC voted unanimously to maintain this rate and continued with its neutral stance. For borrowers, a stable repo rate means lenders have less pressure to revise rates sharply in either direction in the short term.

Inflation and liquidity
When inflation stays within the RBI’s target band of 4%, lenders can hold rates steady. If inflation rises, rate hikes follow, which pushes up home loan interest rates across the board. Banking system liquidity also matters: tighter liquidity typically means higher short-term borrowing costs for banks, which can filter through to retail loan rates.

External benchmark-linked rates
Since 2019, the RBI has required that floating-rate home loans be linked to an external benchmark such as the repo rate. This means rate changes by the RBI now pass through to borrowers more directly than before. It’s worth checking whether your lender offers repo-linked rates so you can benefit when rates ease.

Which factors can affect your home loan interest rate?
Your personal financial profile has a direct bearing on the rate you’re offered. Lenders assess risk, and a stronger profile generally means a lower rate.

A borrower with a CIBIL Score of 780 could be offered a better rate than one with a score of 700 on a Rs. 65 lakh loan over 20 years, and that difference compounds significantly. It’s worth cleaning up any credit report errors before applying.

How much difference can a small rate change make?
This is where the numbers make the case. Many borrowers focus on the loan amount but underestimate how much the rate itself affects total repayment.

Even a 0.25% difference in your rate matters at higher loan amounts: 

The difference is roughly Rs. 1.82 lakh over the loan’s full term. That’s money you could use for other goals. This comparison shows why securing the best possible rate from the start matters far more than it might seem.

How can an EMI calculator for home loan help you plan?
An EMI calculator for home loan estimates your monthly repayment using three inputs:

• Loan amount you plan to borrow

• Expected interest rate (or a range you want to compare)

• Loan tenure in years

It instantly gives you clarity before you speak to any lender by showing you estimates for:

• Your monthly EMI figure

• Total interest payable over the full tenure

• Total repayment amount (principal + interest)

• An amortisation schedule showing how much goes to principal and interest each month

The Bajaj Finance Home Loan EMI Calculator lets you adjust all three inputs and see results instantly. This helps you compare a 15-year versus a 20-year tenure side by side, without any paperwork or phone calls.

Should you choose a shorter or longer loan tenure?
Tenure is one of the most practical decisions you’ll make. There’s no universal right answer; it depends on your monthly cash flow and your appetite for total interest cost.

If your income allows for a higher EMI comfortably, a shorter tenure saves you more, as the table shows. If you need breathing room in your monthly budget, a longer tenure keeps payments manageable. You can always make part-prepayments later to reduce the outstanding principal and, effectively, shorten your loan.

What can you do if interest rates rise?
Rate increases aren’t always avoidable, but you can manage their impact with a few deliberate steps.

• Improve your CIBIL Score before applying: every point above 725 can work in your favour

• Increase your down payment to reduce the loan amount and your risk profile

• Make periodic part-prepayments to reduce the principal and limit future interest accrual

• Review balance transfer options if another lender offers a materially better rate

• Recalculate your EMI using a calculator periodically to track how much you still owe and how long remains

Scenario: Pritha is 34, works as a salaried software professional in Pune, and earns Rs. 20 lakh per year. Her CIBIL Score is 760. She’s identified a property worth Rs. 65 lakh and plans to pay 20% (Rs. 13 lakh) as a down payment, bringing her loan requirement to Rs. 52 lakh.

Before approaching any lender, she used an EMI calculator for home loan to compare two scenarios:

The Rs. 6,314 monthly difference showed her she could afford the 15-year option within her budget. She chose it and will pay Rs. 13.77 lakh less in interest over the term.

When should you review a home loan balance transfer?
If you took a home loan two or more years ago at a higher rate, it may be worth reviewing whether a balance transfer makes financial sense. The savings can be material, especially in the early years of a loan when interest makes up the larger portion of each EMI.

A balance transfer moves your outstanding principal to a new lender at a lower rate. It’s not a new loan; it’s a refinancing of what you already owe.

Bajaj Finance offers home loan balance transfer rates starting at 7.30%* p.a. If your current rate is above this, the difference over the remaining tenure could add up to significant savings. Additionally, eligible balance transfer customers can apply for a top-up loan of up to Rs. 1 crore*, which can be used for home improvements, medical costs, or other needs with end-use flexibility.

How to apply for a Bajaj Finance Home Loan?
Who can apply?
To apply for a Bajaj Finance home loan, you must meet the following eligibility criteria. Checking your eligibility before applying saves time and helps you prepare the right documents.

Step-by-step process for online application

• Click on the ‘APPLY’ button on the Bajaj Finance Home Loan page.

• Enter your full name, mobile number, and employment type.

• Select the type of loan you wish to apply for.

• Generate and submit your OTP to verify your phone number.

• Enter additional details, including your monthly income, required loan amount, and whether you have identified a property.

• Enter your date of birth, PAN, and other details as requested based on your occupation type.

• Click the ‘SUBMIT’ button.

• Your application is submitted. A Bajaj Finance representative will contact you to guide you through the next steps.

Home loan interest rates in 2026 are shaped by the RBI’s monetary stance, inflation signals, and your own financial profile. Understanding what drives your rate, and by how much, puts you in a stronger position before you walk into any application. Use an EMI calculator for home loan to run through different loan amounts, tenures, and rates so you know exactly what you’re committing to each month. Affordability isn’t just about what you can borrow; it’s about what you can repay comfortably over time. Explore Bajaj Finance Home Loan options, compare repayment scenarios, and estimate your EMIs before making a borrowing decision.

As Indian summers grow longer, hotter and more unpredictable, one homegrown brand is shifting the conversation around bedroom comfort from cooling appliances to the fabric you sleep in. SWEET DREAMS, one of India’s leading sleepwear and downtime-wear labels, has launched its summer-ready nightwear collections — featuring the proprietary BambooSoft fabric, 100% linen sets, shorts sets and a range of breathable sleepwear options — built specifically for the realities of the Indian climate.

Part of the SWEET DREAMS’ Summer 2026 collection, featuring breathable fabrics and relaxed silhouettes engineered for Indian climate

The brand’s summer narrative is anchored in a deceptively simple premise: when the weather refuses to cooperate, the right fabric can still make home feel livable. In a country where power cuts, voltage fluctuations, inverter limitations and rising electricity bills are everyday realities for millions of households, SWEET DREAMS is making the case that what you wear to bed matters just as much as whether your AC is running.

The “No AC, No Problem” Philosophy
The campaign’s tagline is not a bold technological claim — it is an honest, grounded insight drawn from Indian home life. The right summer nightwear can support better airflow, reduce the sensation of trapped heat, manage moisture more comfortably, and help the body ease into sleep. When the AC clicks off mid-night or simply isn’t an option, the fabric against your skin becomes the last line of comfort defence.

Central to the collection’s design language is the shorts set — identified by SWEET DREAMS as one of the most relevant summer sleepwear silhouettes for Indian consumers today. A breathable top paired with relaxed shorts reduces fabric coverage, allows natural airflow around the legs, and lends itself to hot nights, humid evenings, travel packing and casual home lounging alike. For consumers who find full-length pyjamas too warm during peak summer months, the shorts set offers the most direct, no-compromise answer to heat — without sacrificing a coordinated, put-together look.

Introducing BambooSoft: A Trademarked Fabric Built for Indian Nights
At the heart of SWEET DREAMS’ summer story is BambooSoft, a trademarked fabric concept developed in-house for consumers who want nightwear that feels light, fresh and skin-friendly through warm weather. The fabric is naturally breathable, pH-neutral and bamboo-infused, carrying a natural anti-bacterial character alongside thermo-regulating and UV-resistant properties. It is also built to withstand the abrasion of regular bed surfaces — an often-overlooked quality consideration for sleepwear that sees nightly use.

For the consumer, BambooSoft translates into a tangible experience: nightwear that feels gentle when the skin is tired from heat, allows airflow during long lounging hours, and holds its quality across repeated use. Unlike occasionwear, sleepwear occupies an unusually intimate role — worn through the couch, the bed, the balcony, the morning tea moment, the late-night laptop session. SWEET DREAMS treats fabric performance not as a premium add-on, but as the very foundation of the product.

Linen: The Original Cooling Fabric, Reimagined for Modern Indian Homes
Alongside BambooSoft, SWEET DREAMS’ 100% linen sets bring a time-honoured summer fabric into contemporary sleepwear and downtime dressing. Linen has long held a natural relationship with heat — appreciated across warm-weather cultures for its cooling character, natural airflow and understated elegance. SWEET DREAMS’ linen offering is positioned not as a formal or delicate product, but as a relaxed, lived-in fabric that suits slow evenings, resort lounging, work-from-home transitions and hot-weather sleep routines with equal ease.

What makes linen particularly relevant for India is its versatility across the season. It feels airy on a hot summer night, remains comfortable on a cooler monsoon evening, and only improves aesthetically with wear — making it an ideal companion for the imperfect, real rhythm of home life.

SWEET DREAMS is positioning summer sleepwear as a smart home essential — part fashion, part wellness, part textile innovation. As Indian consumers become increasingly discerning about what they wear at home, the brand’s investment in fabric-led design reflects a clear belief: comfort is not a luxury, it is a nightly necessity.

The full SWEET DREAMS summer collection, including BambooSoft sets, 100% linen nightwear and shorts sets, is available at SweetDreams.

About SWEET DREAMS
SWEET DREAMS is one of India’s leading sleepwear and downtime-wear brands, dedicated to bringing together textile intelligence, Indian climate understanding and relaxed design. The brand’s collections — including the proprietary BambooSoft fabric line, 100% linen sets and shorts sets — are crafted for everyday home comfort across seasons. For more information, visit SweetDreams.in.

The RBI’s latest monetary policy decision arrives at a crucial phase for India’s real estate sector, where both residential demand and commercial expansion have remained resilient despite an increasingly uncertain global environment. By maintaining the repo rate at 5.25%, the central bank has signalled a preference for macroeconomic stability at a time when geopolitical tensions, fluctuating commodity prices, and external market volatility continue to influence investment sentiment worldwide.
 

RBI Maintains Repo Rate at 5.25%; Developers See Positive Signals for Housing and Commercial Growth
 

For the sector, the move is being viewed as a supportive development that sustains financing visibility across segments. While stable interest rates are expected to encourage homebuyers evaluating long-term purchases, they also provide greater confidence to businesses, retailers, and institutional investors driving activity in office, retail, and mixed-use developments. Developers believe the policy continuity could help preserve the sector’s growth momentum while reinforcing confidence among both consumers and investors.
 

Sanchit Bhutani, Managing Director, Group 108, says, “A steady repo rate combined with a neutral policy stance bodes well for the commercial real estate sector. It provides greater visibility on borrowing costs, fostering confidence among developers, investors, and occupiers alike. For developers, this stability enables more predictable project planning and efficient liquidity management. Going forward, a consistent policy approach is expected to attract stronger institutional participation, reinforcing India’s position as a preferred commercial real estate destination.”
 

Mohit Batra, Regional Director, Realistic Realtors, says, “The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate was largely on expected lines. Given the current global environment, policy continuity was perhaps the more prudent choice. What remains encouraging is that domestic economic activity has continued to remain steady even amid the recent war-led global disruptions. Given the neutral stance, this would maintain confidence across the ecosystem and provide a stable environment for long-term investment and purchase decisions.”
 

Sanchit Jain, Director, Sarvottam India, says, “The RBI maintaining the repo rate at 5.25% brings a sense of continuity that the market values in the current environment. Stable interest rates reduce uncertainty around financing and help businesses take longer-term decisions with greater confidence. Whether it is office expansion, retail leasing, or mixed-use developments, predictability in borrowing conditions supports smoother planning across the ecosystem. It also creates a more favourable environment for developers to execute projects with better financial visibility and planning discipline.”
 

Shaurya Garg, Director, NorthWind Estates, says, “The MPC’s decision to hold rates steady is, in many ways, a vote of confidence in the health of residential demand. At 5.25%, home loan rates remain within a range that keeps purchase decisions rational and viable for a broad base of buyers. For developers, this is the kind of operating environment that allows for measured project planning without second-guessing the demand outlook.”
 

Ankit Kansal, Managing Director, Axon Developers, says, “Interest rate stability plays a significant role in buyer psychology, and today’s policy stability announcement maintains calm in the housing market. When EMIs are predictable, buyers feel empowered to move forward with purchase decisions. Amid rising inflationary pressures, driven by elevated global commodity prices, this balance between growth and caution is exactly what the sector needs.”
 

Paras Rai, Managing Director and Co-founder, Property Master, says, “The premium housing segment has never been purely rate-sensitive, but monetary stability does matter; it shapes buyer psychology and long-term financial planning. The RBI’s hold at 5.25% gives serious buyers the clarity they need to commit. We are seeing end-users, not just investors, drive enquiries in the luxury segment, and a stable rate environment is among the conditions that sustain it.”
 

Azad Ahmad Lone, President, Business Development and Operations, Biigtech, says, “For commercial real estate, the continuation of the current interest rate environment is a positive development. Stable rates create greater clarity for businesses, retailers, and institutional investors looking at long-term commitments across office and mixed-use assets. Markets with strong infrastructure growth and improving business ecosystems are already witnessing healthy traction, and the RBI’s measured stance is expected to further strengthen momentum across quality commercial developments.”
 

Ajendra Singh, Vice-President, Sales and Marketing, Spectrum@Metro, says, “The RBI’s neutral stance and decision to hold the repo rate steady comes as a welcome move for the commercial sector linked closely to investment and consumption. Real estate has been witnessing steady momentum driven by infrastructure growth, urban expansion, and evolving lifestyle aspirations. In this backdrop, stable interest rates help maintain positive market sentiment and support long-term financial planning for both developers and end-users.”