August 2025 brings two perfect long weekends-around Independence Day and Ganesh Chaturthi-and it’s the ideal time to plan a short break that works for the entire family. Whether youre travelling with toddlers or teens, Avani Hotels & Resorts offers a collection of stylish, laid-back stays across Asia and the Middle East that make holidays feel effortless. With direct flights from key Indian cities, these getaways offer just the right balance of beach, culture, dining, and downtime. Avani’s signature is in the details: intuitive service, family-friendly spaces, vibrant dining, and experiences that are both immersive and relaxed.

1. Avani Kalutara Resort, Sri Lanka
Tucked between the ocean and the Kalu Ganga River, this tropical resort is a haven of nature and calm just two hours from Colombo. Families can enjoy boat rides, bicycle trails, kayaking, and beach time, while little ones stay engaged at the kids’ club. Rooms are spacious and breezy, and there’s plenty of outdoor dining with views. With direct flights into Colombo, Sri Lanka has never been more accessible.
Plan your stay

2. Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort, Thailand
Ideal for families who love adventure without the crowds, this beachfront retreat offers access to coral reefs, hidden coves, and island hopping. Kids will love the infinity pool and nature trails, while parents unwind with spa treatments or sunset cocktails. Just a short transfer from Krabi Airport, which has direct flights from India, Koh Lanta makes for a rewarding off-the-map escape.
Discover more

3. Avani+ Hua Hin Resort, Thailand
An easy drive from Bangkok, this resort is a true all-ages favourite. With a dedicated splash pool, an AvaniKids club, and spacious family suites, parents get to relax while the kids stay busy. Add to that a spa, beach access, and vibrant local markets nearby, and you’ve got an easy coastal break with plenty to do. Fly direct to Bangkok and reach Hua Hin by road in under 3 hours.
Explore the family offers

4. Avani Palm View Dubai Hotel & Suites, UAE
This sleek city stay gives families the best of both worlds – close to The Palm, the beach, and Dubai’s top attractions. The spacious one- and two-bedroom suites come with full kitchens, ideal for longer stays. The rooftop pool, nearby beach clubs, and kids’ attractions like Atlantis Aquaventure and Dubai Parks are just minutes away. With multiple daily direct flights from across India, Dubai is a quick urban escape.
More details here

5. FCC Angkor by Avani, Cambodia
A former French consulate turned boutique hideaway, this charming property is right in the heart of Siem Reap. Families can explore the ancient temples of Angkor, wander bustling night markets, or take boat rides on Tonl Sap Lake. With a tranquil pool, connecting rooms, and walkable location, its ideal for culturally curious travellers. Fly direct to Phnom Penh and connect onwards to Siem Reap.
Take a closer look

6. Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel, Laos
Perfect for families who love slower-paced travel, this UNESCO World Heritage town is rich in charm. The hotel is close to temples, markets, and the Mekong River. Kids can take part in traditional arts or enjoy the pool after a day of exploring. Spacious rooms, open courtyards, and quiet elegance make this a soulful break. Fly via Bangkok to Luang Prabang with easy connections.
See whats on offer

Avani+ Luang Prabang, Pool View

7. Avani+ Khao Lak Resort, Thailand
Just an hour north of Phuket, this sprawling beachfront resort is a paradise for active families. It features Thailand’s first resort skate park, an AvaniKids zone, multiple pools, and a family splash pad. There’s Thai cooking classes, movie nights, and direct beach access too. Fly into Phuket on one of several direct flights from India, and enjoy a scenic drive to Khao Lak.
Check the all-inclusive packages

Avani+ Khao Lak Splash Pool

8. Avani+ Barbarons Seychelles
Say hello to the newest gem in the Indian Ocean- Avani+ Barbarons Seychelles, a breezy beachfront retreat that blends tropical tranquillity with family-friendly flair. Just a direct flight away from India to Mah, this recently re-opened resort offers spacious suites, beachside dining, and a laid-back vibe perfect for unwinding. Kids can splash around in the pool or explore marine life with guided snorkelling sessions, while parents enjoy spa rituals or beach yoga. Surrounded by lush forests and postcard-worthy sands, it’s an idyllic choice for families looking to combine nature, culture, and comfort in one unforgettable August escape.
Browse your options

Easy to Reach. Hard to Leave.
Whether you’re craving sea views or city thrills, Avani makes family travel feel effortless. With direct flights, spacious stays, and curated experiences for all ages, your August long weekends are officially sorted.

About Avani Hotels & Resorts

Designed for today’s traveller, Avani offers stylish rooms, connected social spaces and both relaxed and on-the-go dining that is locally inspired. Balance is at the centre of everything Avani does, providing guests with the right measure of service, fun and privacy. Launched in 2011 and now with over 40 properties across five continents, Avani offers city hotels, tropical resorts and retreats in nature with a focus on smart design, upbeat service and good value.

Avani is part of global hospitality group Minor Hotels and a member of the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme.

Visit avanihotels.com for more information, and connect with Avani on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Refex eVeelz, a fast-growing electric mobility solutions provider to leading corporates and renowned demand aggregator platforms, today announced its rebranding as Refex Mobility, unveiling a refreshed identity and a strengthened leadership team to drive its next phase of growth in clean and reliable service.

“Refex eVeelz” Rebrands as “Refex Mobility”

With this transition, the brand is reaffirming its commitment to delivering safe, reliable, and socially-conscious transportation at scale. From its modest beginnings in March 2023 with 24 company-owned EVs, Refex Mobility now operates a fleet of nearly 1,400 EVs, offering tech backed and tailored B2B and B2B2C mobility solutions to leading corporates, institutions, and employees.

With a renewed focus on “Responsible Mobility”, Refex is setting new benchmarks in how people and organizations move. The company’s refreshed mission is built on strong pillars of reliability, safety, sustainability, and social impact – aiming to create transportation that is not just efficient, but also trustworthy and transformative for communities.

Anirudh Arun Appointed CEO to Spearhead Next Phase
Refex Mobility has appointed Anirudh Arun as Chief Executive Officer, signalling a focused drive toward scale, execution, and customer experience. Anirudh brings a strong track record in the mobility industry, known for building premium, safe, clean-fuel run, zero-cancellation fleet systems at scale.

Speaking on the occasion, Anirudh, CEO of Refex Mobility said, “Mobility is more than just getting from point A to B – it’s about trust, dignity, and dependability. Our vision at Refex is to build a fleet and service culture where customers, drivers, and partners all experience that trust every single day.”

He is joined by Ankit Grover as Chief Business Officer, who will drive revenue growth by deepening enterprise partnerships and expanding corporate client engagements.

Strengthened Leadership, Built on a Strong Foundation
Bringing deep expertise from the clean mobility space, Anirudh and Ankit infuse bold strategic direction into Refex Mobility’s leadership. They join a strong foundation anchored by Sasi A (Chief Technology Officer), Meet Goradia (Chief Operating Officer), and Sachin Navtosh Jha (Chief of Staff to the Group MD), who continue to ensure continuity, institutional depth, and sharp operational execution.

A Bold New Look: Reliable Fleet, Exceptional Experience
Alongside the leadership announcement, Refex also introduced a vibrant new brand identity. This includes a redesigned company logo, a modern app icon, and striking new vehicle decals – all underscoring the brand promise: “Refex = Reliable Fleet. Exceptional Experience.”

The rebranding reflects the company’s unwavering dedication to professionalism, timeliness, cleanliness, and customer-first service. Whether for individual passengers or large-scale corporate mobility needs, Refex aims to make every ride feel premium, safe, and dependable.

Building for the Future of Urban Mobility
Refex is rapidly expanding its fleet of vehicles, offering sustainable alternatives for enterprise and employee mobility. From corporate employee transport to premium on-demand services, Refex is committed to raising the bar across all dimensions of urban mobility.

For more details, please visit: www.refexmobility.com

About Refex Mobility
Refex Mobility is a fleet-first mobility platform focused on delivering reliable, safe, and sustainable rides through sustainable-fuel vehicles. Backed by a strong group legacy and now steered by a forward-thinking leadership team, Refex is reimagining what responsible mobility means for India.

The Bajaj Group proudly announces the joining of Ms. Anandamayi Bajaj, daughter of Chairman Mr. Kushagra Nayan Bajaj, as the/fifth-generation scion of the legendary founder Shri Jamnalal Bajaj, Anandamayi marks a historic moment in the Groups journey as its first woman leader.

Anandamayi Bajaj: 5th Generation of Shri Jamnalal Bajaj joins Business

Having graduated in Financial Economics and Mathematics from Columbia University, New York, Anandamayi brings with her a sharp intellect, global exposure, and a deep-rooted commitment to the Bajaj legacy. At just 22, she will work closely with the leadership teams of Bajaj Energy, Bajaj Consumer, and Bajaj Hindusthan Sugar, beginning her full-time role from the Group’s Mumbai office.

As part of her induction, Anandamayi will undertake a detailed cross-functional immersion across all business verticals, preparing to take on greater operational responsibilities by the end of 2025.

Speaking on this landmark moment, Mr. Kushagra Nayan Bajaj, Chairman, Bajaj Group, shared a heartfelt message with the Group employees, “Anandamayi has been raised with a deep understanding of our values, legacy, and aspirations. She brings with her a unique blend of youthful curiosity and grounded responsibility. Her journey is not just hers-it is a continuation of our collective story. I have immense faith in her spirit, commitment, and ability to shape the next chapter of the Bajaj legacy.”

Taking on the new role, Anandamayi Bajaj expressed her views, “It is a privilege to join the Bajaj Group-a name that carries with it a profound legacy of trust, purpose, and nation-building. While I bring with me a fresh perspective and global exposure, I am equally grounded in the values that define our Group. As I look forward to learning from our outstanding teams across businesses, I am equally excited to contribute meaningfully, grow through this journey, and uphold the spirit of excellence that generations before me have built.”

The Bajaj Group, one of India’s oldest and most respected business houses, celebrates this new beginning with pride and optimism, as it continues its legacy of trust, transformation, and nation-building.

About Bajaj Group
Bajaj Group is a $2.5-billion diversified conglomerate with major interests in Sugar, Ethanol, Power and FMCG businesses. Led by Kushagra Nayan Bajaj, the Promoter and Chairman, the group has an asset base of over $5 billion and employs more than 12,000 people.

The Japan Festival- Kala Kabe, held at Ekya School Byrathi, brought together the vibrant cultures of India and Japan in a celebration of art, tradition, and collaboration. The centerpiece of the event was the India & Japan Children’s Mural Project, a collaborative mural created by students from Ekya School, CMR NPS, and Japan, directed by renowned Japanese mural artist Teiko Nishimori, who is also the Founder of ICFA Japan.

The unveiling of India and Japan children’s mural project by Hokuto Kaya, Consulate-General of Japan in Bengaluru at Ekya School, Byrathi

The mural was unveiled by Hokuto Kaya, Consulate-General of Japan in Bengaluru, in the presence of dignitaries including Dr. K.C. Ramamurthy, Chairman, CMR Group of Institutions, Dr. Sabitha Ramamurthy, President, CMR Jnanadhara Trust, Mr. K.R. Jayadeep, CEO, CMR Group of Institutions and Dr. Tristha Ramamurthy, Founder, Ekya Schools.

Teiko Nishimori has been traveling the world for over 45 years, leading large-scale mural projects that bring children together to celebrate themes of friendship, peace, and the connection between people, animals, and nature. Her unique process involves engaging children in discussions, listening to their ideas, and working together to transform blank walls into vibrant stories. This project at Ekya Schools marks her very first mural in India, making it an especially meaningful journey. Speaking about the project, Nishimori said, “Because of the friendship between Japanese and Indian students, we were able to finish this beautiful mural. I hope to continue this friendship and create more art together in the future.”

Speaking at the event, Dr. Tristha Ramamurthy said, “I would like to thank everyone who contributed to this incredible collaboration. This mural is not just an art piece but a permanent symbol of cultural exchange and creativity that will inspire generations on our campus.”

The festival, organized by Miho Sakata Malhan, Founder, Muse Creation, Bengaluru, featured a day full of enriching activities, including performances, workshops on Origami and Haiku, a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony, and art displays by students. The Muse Charity Bazaar presented sustainable products and gourmet treats, adding to the cultural experience of the day.

Adding her perspective, Miho Sakata Malhan remarked, “This mural reflects the nature, culture, history, nostalgia, and future of Japan and India. It is a true representation of the friendship between these two nations and their students.”

The Japan Festival was a testament to how art and education can transcend boundaries, fostering creativity and building bridges between cultures. Attendees left inspired by the power of collaboration and cultural exchange.

For more information, visit: Ekya Schools

.

The Independence Day offers isn’t just about discounts. It’s the chance to bring home the television of your choice at a lower price and on instalments. Whether you want a big-screen upgrade for cricket season, a 4K display for family movie nights, or a sleek LED for your bedroom, Bajaj Finserv’s Independence Day offers on televisions gives you discounts and easy payment options.

Independence Day Offers: Top LED TV Deals on Easy EMIs

Independence Day television offers

This Independence Day, get LED television offers from LG, Samsung, and Haier. You can enjoy zero down payment, flexible payment tenures, and significant discounts through Bajaj Finserv’s Easy EMI Loan. Here’s a look at the offers on top-selling television brands:

Here’s a quick look at some of the most popular models available in the offer window. These products offer a balance of performance, style, and value. And, all are available on Easy EMIs.

Disclaimer: Prices and EMIs mentioned for LED televisions are approximate and may vary based on location, retailer, promotional offers, and the specific variant of the model.

How to make the most of your TV purchase

• Compare features, not just price. Look for picture quality, smart OS, connectivity, and sound output.

• Check room size and viewing distance: bigger isn’t always better. Match the TV size to your space.

• Use Easy EMI smartly. Choose a repayment tenure that balances affordability and total cost.

• Look for bundled offers. Some partner stores may include free installation or extended warranty during the Independence Day sale.

Why shop with Bajaj Finserv

Bajaj Finserv’s financing options mean you can enjoy premium television offers today without worrying about immediate full payment.

When you shop for your LED TV through Bajaj Finserv, you don’t just get a competitive price, you also get the flexibility to pay in small, manageable instalments. You can explore a wide range of models, compare features, and price on Bajaj Mall. Once you finalise the best fit online, you can complete your purchase at one of the 1.5 lakh+ Bajaj Finserv partner stores across 4,000+ cities in India. Enjoy benefits like Easy EMIs, zero down payment on select models, and instant approval through the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card, making your purchase smooth and budget-friendly.

Bajaj Finance Limited
Bajaj Finance Ltd. (‘BFL’, ‘Bajaj Finance’, or ‘the Company’), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 69.14 million customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BB+/Positive and a short-term rating of B by S&P Global ratings.

To know more, visit www.bajajfinserv.in.

Horse racing has always been related to speed and excitement. Parimatch, #1 global gaming platform, channels that same energy into Virtual Horse Racing, now live across Asia. It’s fast, it’s real, and it’s ready for players who love the thrill.

Parimatch Launches Live Virtual Horse Racing Across Asia

A Track That Never Sleeps

Virtual Horse Racing lets the spirit of the track running non-stop. ​​Races repeat every 3 minutes so players can forget about waiting around and wasting time. From the starting gate to the finish line, every second feels real, streamed straight to the screen. Players can enjoy dynamic video broadcasts with perfect visuals and commentary that keeps the adrenaline pumping.

Three Ways to Play, Endless Reasons to Earn

Parimatch offers three simple but strategic ways to play every race:

• Winner – Back the horse that will cross the line first.

• Top 2 Finish – Pick a horse to finish in the top two.

• Top 3 Finish – Predict a secure spot in the top three.

Timing is everything. And here the fun starts: quick decisions, fast results, instant payouts.

Why Players Love It

Horse racing in Asia goes back more than 200 years, with the first official race held in 1777. Today, the sport remains popular and beloved, carrying rich traditions till nowadays.

Virtual Horse Racing is made for people who want action now. No long breaks, no waiting for race day. Just a 24/7 live stream of races, where every three minutes brings a new chance to win. It’s easy to join, exciting to watch, and even better to play on the go.

The Race Starts Here

The track is live. The next race starts in minutes. Jump in and experience the speed, strategy, and pure energy of Virtual Horse Racing on Parimatch.

About Parimatch

Parimatch is the #1 global gaming platform that provides a complete suite of sports and online iGaming services. Since 1994, Parimatch has grown to be enjoyed by over 3,000,000 active users worldwide. It is trusted by the world’s top athletes and celebrities: cricket stars Sunil Narine, rap icon Divine, and MMA fighter Ritu Phogat are among its ambassadors. Parimatch is the Official Partner of the UFC and Title Sponsor of the Sunrisers Eastern Cape. Since 2019, Parimatch has been one of the leading iGaming brands in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

The world is facing a growing healthcare crisis – a severe and escalating shortage of physicians. From rural communities in India and underserved urban neighborhoods in the United States, to remote regions of Canada and beyond, healthcare systems are straining under the weight of too few medical professionals to meet increasing patient needs.

Campus of Xaviers University School of Medicine Aruba

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global shortage of healthcare workers could reach 10 million by 2030, with developing nations facing the greatest impact. In the United States, the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) projects a shortfall of 37,800 to 124,000 physicians by 2034, driven by population growth, an aging population, and a wave of physician retirements. Canada, known for its universal healthcare system, is experiencing increasing wait times and reduced access to primary and specialist care particularly in rural and northern regions. In India, with a population exceeding 1.4 billion, there is just one doctor for every 1,456 people,

significantly below the WHO’s recommended ratio of 1:1000. Millions in rural and semi-urban areas remain underserved, with minimal access to qualified healthcare providers.

Amid this global crisis, Xavier University School of Medicine Aruba (XUSOM) is rising to meet the challenge. Dedicated to producing compassionate, skilled, and well qualified physicians, Xavier provides a comprehensive, affordable, and accessible path to medical education actively helping to address the physician shortage worldwide.

“Physician shortages are not just statistics-they affect real people in urgent need of care,” said Ravi Bhooplapur, President of XUSOM. “At Xavier, we are committed to preparing the next generation of physicians to meet these challenges head-on, wherever they practice. We believe that financial barriers should never stand in the way of someone’s dream to become a physician. We’ve worked hard to design a program that delivers world-class medical education at an affordable price. Through transparent tuition, scholarships, and flexible payment plans, we’re making it possible for students from around the world to pursue a career in medicine without overwhelming debt.”

Xavier’s graduates are already making a difference. Alumni have matched into competitive residency programs in the U.S. and Canada and returned to serve communities. As medical leaders, they carry Xavier’s mission of compassion, competence, and global responsibility.

“Every student we train is a future lifeline for a community in need,” said Dr. Arun Dubey, Chief Academic Officer of XUSOM. “We’re not just educating doctors we’re shaping advocates, leaders, and healers who will serve where they’re most needed.”

Graduates of XUSOM go on to practice in the U.S., Canada and other regions where their expertise is desperately needed. As the demand for healthcare professionals surges, Xavier remains committed to nurturing future doctors who are not only clinically proficient but also compassionate, community-oriented, and globally aware.

For more information about admissions and programs please visit www.xusom.com.

This season, high above Bengaluru’s skyline, two delicious tales unfold at Far & East, the elegant Pan-Asian restaurant at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru. Curated by Chef Wong Chin Sheong, the hotel’s Chinese Chef, each experience reflects a journey steeped in tradition and artistry. With over two decades spent in acclaimed kitchens across Malaysia, Dubai, and India, Chef Wong brings a deeply intuitive approach to regional cuisine-where his mastery over Cantonese and Szechuan traditions is beautifully balanced with contemporary flair. From the layered, flavour-rich Symphony of Duck-a soulful homage to the beloved bird-to the Unlimited Dim Sum Lunch, an invitation to linger over delicate bites and unhurried conversations, each experience is crafted to delight. Whether drawn by the richness of culinary heritage or the joy of unhurried flavour, Far & East promises a dining experience that truly rises above.

Chef Wong Chin Sheong, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru

Symphony of Duck: This is a showcase of flavour, tradition, and technique where each dish is a dialogue between heritage and reinvention. At the heart of the menu is the classic Peking Duck, served with Chinese pancakes, cucumber, leeks, Bengaluru farm leaves, and a sweet duck sauce. Lacquered to perfection and carved tableside in a quiet, elegant ritual, it sets the tone for an experience that is both soulful and refined. The journey continues with a Cantonese-style roast duck, its richness balanced by the brightness of plum and fresh coriander, and a Thai roasted duck curry-comforting, fragrant, and gently layered with the warmth of spice and coconut. Contemporary expressions surprise and delight, from a Peking Duck sushi roll where Chinese tradition meets Japanese restraint, to a truffle-scented duck fried rice that feels both indulgent and familiar. Delicate duck potstickers, filled with spring onion, ginger, and cabbage, offer a nod to Northern Chinese street food-elevated, of course, in true Four Seasons style.

Har Gow, Unlimited Dimsum Lunch Menu

Unlimited Dim Sum Lunch: A weekday indulgence designed for those who wish to slow down and savour, the menu pays homage to the centuries-old Cantonese art of dim sum, combining refinement with generosity. Guests can indulge in wave after wave of handcrafted dumplings-both vegetarian and non-vegetarian-served alongside carefully curated mains and light, elegant desserts. The afternoon begins with classics-steamed pork dumplings and chicken shumai, perfectly pleated and full of flavour-before making way for bolder interpretations such as Sichuan-spiced chicken or the deeply satisfying yang rou jiao. Dishes arrive gently paced, encouraging conversation and contemplation. Mains such as the delicately steamed chicken with water chestnut bring warmth and depth to the experience, while a final flourish of artisanal ice creams and sorbets provides a cool, cleansing finish.

Together, these two offerings embody the spirit of Far & East-where culinary craftsmanship, thoughtful storytelling, and a spectacular setting come together to create something truly memorable. Whether one chooses to escape for a languid afternoon or experience the artistry of duck in its most elegant forms, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru once again proves that dining here is never just a meal-it’s a moment.

Reserve: +91 76191 46006