Funds advised by Convergent Finance LLP (‘Convergent’) and leading private equity firm Samara Capital (‘Samara’) through their jointly owned and controlled company, CAG-Tech Mauritius Limited (‘CAG-Tech’), have signed definitive documents for the acquisition of an additional 4.99% stake in Sundrop Brands Limited (‘Sundrop’) from DMPL India Ltd (‘DMPL’), an Indian subsidiary of US-based food company, Del Monte. Pursuant to the deal, CAG-Tech, the promoter of Sundrop, will increase its holding to 38.91%.

Funds Advised by Convergent Finance and Samara Capital to Acquire an Additional 4.99% Stake in Sundrop Brands

In addition, CAG-Tech also has an option to buy another 4.99% stake from DMPL, exercisable after April 1, 2026.

In August 2024, Convergent and Samara jointly acquired a controlling stake in Sundrop by acquiring CAG-Tech. Following this acquisition, Sundrop’s food portfolio was expanded through the purchase of 100.00% of Del Monte Foods Pvt Ltd (‘Del Monte’), a joint venture between Bharti Group and Del Monte, in an all-stock deal of USD 154 million.

Sundrop continues to strengthen its position in India’s fast-growing packaged foods market through a widening product portfolio and expanding national footprint. The company benefits from strong brand equity, a robust pan-India distribution network, and a disciplined strategy focused on quality, innovation, and consumer trust. By increasing their shareholding, Convergent and Samara are further deepening their commitment to Sundrop’s long-term growth.

These attributes position Sundrop to capture the structural shift toward branded, packaged food products as household consumption patterns evolve. With a clear roadmap for operational excellence and category expansion, the company is, in our view, well set up for sustained success and value creation.

Harsha Raghavan, Managing Partner at Convergent Finance, said, “Sundrop is uniquely positioned to benefit from India’s accelerating demand for trusted, high-quality food and beverage brands. By increasing our stake, we are reinforcing our conviction in the leadership, its strategy, and its potential to deliver attractive long-term compounding for all stakeholders.”

Manish Mehta, Managing Director and Co-Chief Investment Officer at Samara Capital, said, “We are pleased to further back Sundrop in its journey of building enduring household brands. The company’s consumer-centric strategy, deep retail reach, and growing portfolio of scalable categories give us strong confidence in its ability to deliver sustainable, profitable growth over the coming years.”

About Convergent Finance LLP

Convergent Finance LLP is an investment management and advisory partnership at the forefront of bringing together Ideas, Capital, and passionate Entrepreneurs. The Convergent investment process involves identifying proprietary platform and bolt-on opportunities, speed of execution, and a relentless focus on performance improvement. The Convergent value investing approach believes in paying fair and reasonable valuations through bilaterally negotiated transactions.

About Samara Capital

Founded in 2007, Samara Capital is one of India’s leading mid-market private equity firms that invests in emerging partners with entrepreneurs and management teams to help businesses achieve their true potential, thereby creating long term value for all stakeholders. Samara’s investment strategy believes that focusing on input metrics and culture-building leads to sustainable and scalable business performance. Consumer and Retail is one of the largest focus areas for the firm. Samara has done multiple platform buildouts to create market leaders in sectors such as Consumer and retail, business services and healthcare.

About Sundrop Brands

Sundrop Brands Limited is a public limited company engaged in the business of creating, marketing and distributing innovative, delicious and convenient food solutions. Sundrop is listed both on National Stock Exchange and Bombay Stock Exchange. Widely recognized for its popular brands like ACT II popcorn, Del Monte, and Sundrop edible oils, the company has a vision to deliver joyful food experiences to the modern consumer.

Actor, Entrepreneur, and style icon Shilpa Shetty announces her much awaited signature Mangalsutra Bracelet collection, this time crafted in purest Type IIa (Type 2A) diamonds through a creative collaboration with Limelight Lab Grown Diamonds. 

Shilpa Shetty unveils Mangalsutra Bracelet with Limelight Diamonds

Speaking about the launch, Shilpa shares, “The mangalsutra has always held deep emotional meaning for me, but I’ve also believed that tradition should evolve with the woman who wears it. The Mangalsutra Bracelet was born from that very thought: a piece that carries sentiment yet fits seamlessly into a modern woman’s everyday style.”

Explaining her decision to re-envision the design, she adds, “I wanted to reinterpret this bracelet in a way that reflects today’s values of conscious luxury, meaningful craftsmanship, and individuality. When I discovered the brilliance and purity of Type IIa (Type 2A) lab-grown diamonds, I knew they were the perfect way to elevate this design. They are of exceptional quality, sustainable, and absolutely stunning.” 

The collection features a series of handcrafted bracelets that reinterpret the timeless mangalsutra through a contemporary lens. Minimal in form, rich in symbolism, and designed for all-day wear. Shilpa further shares, “Every piece in this capsule has been personally curated and designed by me. It’s something I would wear to work, at a celebration, or even while travelling. It’s a reminder that tradition can be intimate, expressive, and beautifully individual.” 

Adding to Shilpa’s sentiment, Pooja Madhavan, Founder of Limelight, says, “This collection is a celebration of how traditions evolve. The Mangalsutra Bracelet that once symbolized rarity now represents choice, individuality and modernity, values that align deeply with Limelight. Co-designing this with Shilpa has allowed us to bring a contemporary icon to today’s woman.” 

The Mangalsutra Bracelet Collection is now available online and across all stores.

Chitkara University successfully concluded the second edition of Never Ending Story, a two-day storytelling festival organised by the Chitkara Design School recently. The festival brought together leading industry practitioners, design academicians, filmmakers, musicians, and professional storytellers from across the country, creating a dynamic platform for dialogue, learning, and creative exchange.

Students learn about framing the future of cinema at “Never Ending Story” at Chitkara University

The festival opened with evocative musical performances by renowned artists Bindhu Malini and Lalon, whose compositions drew from Sufi, Bhakti, and experimental traditions, setting an immersive tone for the event. A keynote Design Dialogue, featured an eminent panel comprising Azmina Poddar, Dr. Sherline Pimenta, Pushpendra Nath Misra, Nina Sabnani, and Ramneek Majithia. The discussion explored the future of design education, the impact of technology on creative practices, and the evolving responsibilities of design institutions.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro Chancellor, Chitkara University said, “Storytelling lies at the heart of design, culture, and human connection. Platforms such as Never Ending Story empower students to think critically, create fearlessly, and engage meaningfully with the world around them. At Chitkara University, we remain committed to nurturing creative ecosystems that combine academic rigor with real-world relevance.”

Across both days, students engaged in specialised workshops on AI and design, storytelling methodologies, sound design, humour in communication, improvisational music, narrative gaming, bookbinding, illustration, and play-based storytelling. The festival also showcased a student short film program featuring entries from design institutions across India, culminating in a screening of Jai Mata Ji – Let’s Rock by National Award-winning filmmaker Manish Saini, followed by an insightful panel discussion with leading filmmakers and sound designers. The second edition of Never Ending Story ensured Chitkara University’s commitment to experiential learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and sustained engagement with industry experts, offering students a vibrant space to experiment, reflect, and develop their creative voices in dialogue with accomplished practitioners.

About Chitkara University
Chitkara University is a distinguished private institution known for its commitment to fostering academic excellence, research, and innovation across various disciplines. With a focus on creating leaders of tomorrow, the university offers a wide array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs that equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to succeed in an ever-evolving global landscape.

For more information visit : www.chitkara.edu.in.

If there is one cultural destination in South India that deserves a place on every traveller’s calendar this season, it is the 13th Sargaalaya International Arts & Crafts Festival (SIACF). From December 23, 2025, to January 11, 2026, Sargaalaya Kerala Arts & Crafts Village transforms into a living, breathing celebration of art, heritage, flavour, and community—an experience that is as inspiring as it is unforgettable.

13th Sargaalaya International Arts & Crafts Festival (SIACF) begins from December 23, 2025, to January 11, 2026

Recognised as South India’s premier crafts festival, SIACF 2025 is expected to welcome over two lakh visitors, making it not just an exhibition, but a cultural phenomenon. Organised by Sargaalaya Kerala Arts & Crafts Village and managed by the legendary Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society (ULCCS Ltd.), the festival continues to set benchmarks in responsible tourism and cultural excellence.

Where the World’s Crafts Come Together

What makes SIACF truly extraordinary is its global soul rooted in Indian tradition. The 2025 edition brings together nearly 200 master artisans from 18+ Indian states, alongside celebrated craft practitioners from Belarus, Egypt, Iran, Israel, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Russia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Tajikistan, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan, and Taiwan.

Walking through SIACF feels like travelling across continents—each stall revealing a story, a heritage, and a human touch that no machine can replicate. For anyone who values authenticity, craftsmanship, and cultural depth, this is an experience that simply cannot be missed.

An Immersive Festival, Not Just an Exhibition

SIACF 2025 is thoughtfully curated to offer far more than shopping. Visitors are invited to explore beautifully designed Handloom and Craft Theme Arenas, with special emphasis on Geographical Indication (GI)–tagged products, making it a rare opportunity to witness India’s protected craft legacies under one roof.

With over 100 exhibition and trade stalls, including works by National and State Award–winning artisans, the festival offers an unparalleled chance to engage directly with creators and take home pieces of living heritage.

Adding depth to the experience are the Tourism Expo and Tourism Talk Shows, where ideas, innovation, and the future of creative tourism come together—making SIACF equally compelling for professionals, students, and cultural thinkers.

Fashion, Flowers, Food & Festivity

From elegance on the ramp to colour in full bloom, SIACF 2025 celebrates lifestyle in its most artistic form. Handloom Fashion Shows and Children’s Fashion Shows bring textiles to life, while the Flower Show adds a visual spectacle that delights all ages.

No visit to SIACF is complete without indulging in the much-loved Kerala Food Festival—a culinary journey through authentic local delicacies, enriched with regional flavours from states like Rajasthan. Daily live cultural performances by renowned artists ensure that every evening at Sargaalaya feels festive, soulful, and memorable.

For those who enjoy leisure amidst nature, pedal and motor boating along the serene Moorad River offers a refreshing pause—making the festival a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and adventure.

A Festival That Makes a Difference

Beyond its beauty and scale, SIACF stands out for its purpose. As a flagship rural tourism initiative, the festival plays a crucial role in empowering artisans, sustaining endangered crafts, and contributing meaningfully to the local economy.

This vision is strengthened by the support of the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, NABARD, the Ministry of Textiles (through the Development Commissioners of Handicrafts and Handlooms), and the Indian Institute of Handloom Technology, Kannur—ensuring that every visit directly supports livelihoods and cultural continuity.

The Perfect Family & Travel Recommendation

Whether you are a culture enthusiast, a conscious shopper, a family looking for a meaningful holiday outing, or a traveller seeking authentic Kerala experiences, SIACF 2025 is an unmissable recommendation. It is rare to find a destination that seamlessly brings together craft, cuisine, learning, entertainment, and nature—yet Sargaalaya does so effortlessly.

“Sargaalaya is not just a craft village; it is a celebration of human creativity and shared heritage,” says Team Sargaalaya. “Every visit helps preserve living traditions while empowering rural communities through responsible tourism.”

About Sargaalaya Kerala Arts & Crafts Village

Set across 20 acres in Iringal, Kozhikode, Sargaalaya Kerala Arts & Crafts Village is a flagship initiative of the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, established in 2011. Developed on a Responsible Tourism model, it provides a permanent creative home for over 100 master artisans and features 27+ eco-friendly cottages, live craft demonstrations, and cultural spaces.

Recipient of the National Tourism Award for Best Rural Tourism Project, Sargaalaya is widely regarded as one of Kerala’s most enriching cultural destinations.

Sargaalaya Arts and Crafts Village: Towards a Global Cultural and Experiential Destination

Sargaalaya Kerala Arts and Crafts Village at Iringal, near Vatakara in Kozhikode district, is envisioned to be developed as a globally benchmarked cultural, experiential, and interpretative destination for Malabar. The proposed development reimagines Sargaalaya not merely as a craft village, but as an integrated cultural institution that interprets regional heritage, nurtures creativity, produces knowledge, and anchors a wider tourism ecosystem across North Kerala. The focus is on creating a living cultural landscape where heritage, contemporary practice, tourism, and community livelihoods intersect.

The development places strong emphasis on immersive visitor engagement through interactive craft zones, daily demonstrations, curated workshops, and guided interpretation. Craft spaces will be reconfigured to allow larger visitor participation, supported by a central craft emporium and dedicated workshops that enable skill development, innovation, residencies, and fair market access for artisans. These interventions ensure that crafts remain dynamic, living practices rather than static displays.

At the heart of the project is the Cultural Experience and Interpretation Centre, conceived as the primary narrative anchor for Malabar. Through curated exhibitions, multimedia installations, immersive digital environments, and interactive archives, the centre will present Malabar’s maritime history, social reform movements, resistance traditions, ecological knowledge, and cultural pluralism, offering visitors a coherent entry point into the region’s layered cultural landscapes.

A series of thematic developments will structure the expanded Sargaalaya ecosystem. The Literature City will position Malabar as a living literary landscape through writers’ retreats, multilingual libraries, translation and publishing labs, literary residencies, and immersive experiences linking literature with place, memory, and social history. The Kalari Village, rooted in the martial traditions of Kadathanad, will integrate training, performance, research, wellness, and interpretation through traditional arenas, therapy centres, and an interactive martial arts museum.

The project places strong emphasis on the documentation and preservation of performing arts, supported by digital archives, performance-capture studios, and immersive experience centres for art forms such as Theyyam, Kathakali, Kalaripayattu, and Mappila songs. A Living Heritage Programme will support artists through apprenticeships, fellowships, residencies, and contemporary collaborations, ensuring continuity alongside creative evolution.

Sargaalaya is envisioned as a year-round cultural destination with robust performance infrastructure, including open-air amphitheatres, indoor auditoriums, flexible venues, and artist residency facilities. Regular performances, curated weekend programmes, and four large-scale annual cultural productions will ensure sustained activation. A flagship attraction, Malabar Symphony, is proposed as a large-scale light-and-sound hybrid immersive storytelling experience narrating Malabar’s maritime history, resistance movements, ecological consciousness, and cultural evolution. Conceived as a thirty-five-minute production staged twice daily, Malabar Symphony is proposed to be developed in collaboration with leading national and international artists, with concept and direction by Revathy, screenplay and narrative by Shankar Ramakrishnan, music composition by A.R. Rahman, sound design by Resul Pookkutty, technical direction by Alphons, theatre direction by Royston Abel, animation and visual effects by Aravind, and voice performances by distinguished artists including Mammootty, Manju Warrier, Parvathy Thiruvothu, Anoop Menon, Sayonara Philip, and Prithviraj Sukumaran.

A dedicated Children’s Cultural and Experiential Zone will offer play-based learning rooted in Malabar’s cultural narratives and ecological contexts, integrating creative activity spaces, nature-linked exploration, and water-based learning experiences. Complementing this are structured workshops and creative learning programmes across crafts, music, theatre, movement, painting, and visual arts, catering to students, artists, tourists, and cultural professionals.

The development adopts a hub-and-spoke tourism model, positioning Sargaalaya as the central orientation and interpretation hub for integrated cultural, riverine, coastal, literary, martial, and culinary circuits across Malabar. River-based journeys and water experiences will function as experiential corridors, foregrounding ecology, heritage, and local livelihoods.

The ecosystem further includes curated food tourism and culinary experiences, including festivals and a floating restaurant rooted in Malabar cuisine; a handloom, design, and retail zone supporting innovation and contemporary applications of traditional textiles; a vibrant flea market strengthening the informal cultural economy; and facilities for social, cultural, and community events, conferences, exhibitions, destination weddings, and themed cultural ceremonies.

To enable deeper immersion, the project proposes on-site accommodation and stay facilities designed in harmony with the landscape and local architectural traditions, supporting multi-day cultural tourism, artist residencies, research stays, and family travel. Through this integrated approach, the upcoming phase of Sargaalaya positions culture as core infrastructure for development, envisioning a globally relevant model for experiential, responsible, and knowledge-driven cultural tourism that interprets Malabar for contemporary and international audiences.

Website: www.sargaalaya.in
Instagram: Sargaalaya – Kerala Arts & Crafts Village Iringal

About ULCCS Ltd.

Founded in 1925 by social reformer Vagbhatananda Guru, the Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society Ltd. (ULCCS) is among India’s most respected worker cooperatives. With 18,000+ employees, 7,500+ completed projects, and global recognition—including a World No. 2 ranking in the Industry & Utilities sector by the World Cooperative Monitor for 3 years—ULCCS stands as a UN-recognised model for ethical, inclusive, and quality-driven development.

If you are looking for one unforgettable cultural recommendation this season, SIACF 2025 at Sargaalaya is it.

Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology (SMI) successfully concluded three vibrant exhibitions from 18 December through 21st, which brought together emerging artists and designers to reimagine the future through creative practice. The exhibition unfolded across two venues from December 18-21, 2025, drawing visitors into immersive experiences that bridged disciplines, challenged conventions, and charted new territories in art, design, and technology.

SMI’s transdisciplinary exhibition showcases immersive visions reimagining art of future

Practices of Attunement: A Transdisciplinary Chorus
The exhibition opened at the Bangalore International Centre on December 18-19 with “Practices of Attunement,” a compelling showcase of postgraduate works that explored transdisciplinary as a mode of research and making. The opening highlighted three distinct clusters that emerged as a chorus of voices engaging with themes of community, climate action, histories, urban systems, and contemporary narratives.

Approximately 70-80 postgraduate students from the MDes and MA programs presented works that layered design, art, and technology in ways that speak to our contemporary moment.

Dr. Priya Joseph, Professor, SMI on the success of the event, said, “The exhibition of Post graduate work is called ‘Practices of Attunement’. The opening of the exhibition by the curators, our faculty at SMI, Jatin Gulati and Karthika Sakthivel highlighted the three clusters that emerged as chorus of voices. At SMI it is unique that MDes and MA courses bring design, art, technology and as layers that the students explore through these exhibits, making relevant arguments for a contemporary world with commune, climate action, histories, cities and more.”

Prologue: Make New Worlds – A Celebration of Possibility
The exhibition continued at the historic Venkatappa Art Gallery on December 20-21 with “Prologue: Make New Worlds,” a public showcase of visions from final-year undergraduate students across all 11 courses at SMI’s Undergraduate Professional Program (UGPP). The gallery came alive with short films, animations, products, publications, digital platforms, and systems that plant seeds for newer worlds across healthcare, education, sustainability, urban development, and diverse creative contexts.

Over 300 students of 7th semester represented a pivotal moment in the four-year UGPP journey. After three years of studios, workshops, and short-term ateliers, learners immerse themselves for a full semester in the context of their choice, pushing and pulling between tools, methods, media, and applications before their final semester.

“Creativity has grown beyond beautification and aesthetics, it is found in systems, processes and services present in all aspects of our everyday life, neighbourhoods, cities and economies,” says Dr. Arindam Das, Director SMI. “Art and Design is no longer peripheral, but they are at the centre of the new worlds that we are making.”

“For us, education is not just about preparing for a career, it is about nurturing the ability to shape the future,” says Ramesh Kalkur, Associate director (Academics), SMI. “The future, therefore, is not something to arrive at. It is something we create a future that builds new opportunities, strengthens communities, and fosters deeper connections with the world.”

Throughout all four days of the exhibition, visitors engaged directly with student artists and designers, experiencing firsthand the depth of inquiry and experimentation that defines SMI’s educational philosophy. The works presented were testaments to diversity, authenticity, and an inquiry that begins within and moves outward.

Zuno General Insurance, a new-age digital insurer committed to making insurance easy, friendly and transparent, today shared increasing early traction for Zuno SmartDrive, its app-led usage-based car insurance (UBI) launched in March 2025. In less than nine months, Zuno SmartDrive users have logged over 1 crore kms, signalling a clear shift towards behaviour-driven, personalised insurance among India’s new generation of drivers.

Zuno Smart Drive

To share the benefit of UBI with a larger audience, Zuno has launched its flagship initiative of Zuno Driving Quotient (ZDQ) Challenge to non Zuno users too. In this 5-day free trial, customers can simply download the Zuno app, complete a five-day driving assessment and receive a personalised driving score at no cost. This score unlocks additional discounts on car insurance and gift vouchers, making Zuno the first insurer in the country to offer a large-scale, app-based, pre-purchase driving test that delivers real, measurable financial benefits to customers.

The feature marks a major step in usage-based insurance adoption, as young India increasingly embraces behaviour-driven, personalised motor insurance.

Launched in March 2025, Zuno SmartDrive has already captured over 1.5 lac trips from digital-first drivers across the country, with an average score of 92%. Early participation has been dominated by users aged 28–40, signalling strong traction among India’s most mobile, tech-savvy consumers.

Zuno’s telematics driven model also shows that behaviour, not geography or type of car, is the most reliable predictor of risk. Across regions, two driving patterns consistently bring scores down are frequent hard braking and rapid acceleration. These behavioural markers have emerged as the strongest indicators of trip quality and future risk, regardless of where a driver lives or drives.

Among the most striking findings:

• Major metros like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai and Kolkata, showed an average driving score of 91%. This might be due to congestion, peak-hour density and erratic traffic flow.

• Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab and Tamil Nadu emerge as India’s safest driving states, with consistently low rates of harsh braking and rapid acceleration and each maintaining average driving scores above 92%.

• Speeding was more prevalent in Pune and Kolkata, while harsh braking was frequently observed in Guntur and Vizianagaram.

These findings reveal how real-world driving environments shape behaviour across regions.

Shanai Ghosh, MD & CEO, Zuno General Insurance said, “With SmartDrive, we want to build a fair, transparent and personalised insurance experience that truly reflects how young India drives. The early numbers show that young India is driving safer, smarter and more mindfully, and they’re getting rewarded for it. Our focus is to keep building a simpler, more intuitive and rewarding ecosystem where good drivers finally receive the benefits they truly deserve, making roads in India safer.”

India’s road safety crisis shows little sign of easing. Provisional data for 2024 released by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) indicates that the country recorded over 4.7 lakh road accidents and more than 1.7 lakh fatalities during the year, underscoring the continued risk on Indian roads. Some states are yet to share the data post which the final data will be released by MoRTH. Despite incremental improvements in select states, unsafe driving behaviour, over speeding and low compliance with helmets and seat belts remain dominant contributors to fatal accidents.

The challenge is consistent with final MoRTH data for 2023, which reported 4.81 lakh road accidents, 1.73 lakh deaths and over 4.6 lakh injuries nationwide; that works out to roughly 20 deaths and 55 accidents every hour. Together, the data highlights an urgent need to shift focus from reactive protection to prevention-led, technology-driven road safety solutions.

At Zuno we have adopted this mission to encourage India to drive safer. Zuno’s Smart Drive App provides customers with real time feedback on their driving quality and nudges for safer driving behaviour.

Zuno’s telematics insights also highlight notable exposure trends:

• Drivers with top-tier scores between 96 and 100 show a striking 40% lower claims risk, underscoring how consistent, disciplined behaviour behind the wheel directly translates into fewer incidents.

• The data also dispels some common assumptions. Gender has almost no impact on driving safety. Women recorded an average score of 92.83%, only marginally higher than men at 92.81%, indicating that both groups demonstrate virtually the same risk profile on the road.

• When drivers take their trips matters as well. High-scoring behaviour (80–100) is most common during weekday, daytime driving, reinforcing the well-known risks associated with night-time travel. Structured, predictable daytime journeys tend to support steadier driving patterns and safer outcomes.

• Across regions and vehicle types, two behaviours emerge as the strongest predictors of lower scores and higher risk:

• Frequent harsh braking, and High, rapid acceleration.

• Regardless of where a person drives, these two actions consistently signal a risky trip.

• Seasonal behaviour also tells an important story. Even with changing conditions, rain does not turn safe drivers into risky ones. Those with high scores (80–100) maintain similarly strong performance across both summer and monsoon seasons, showing that core driving habits remain stable despite weather shifts.

Zuno SmartDrive car insurance also includes India’s first real-time crash detection feature. It uses advanced mobile telematics to automatically sense an accident and trigger an alert to Zuno’s support team. Once triggered, the team coordinates emergency support, roadside assistance and priority claims handling, ensuring that help reaches the customer without requiring them to make a call.

About Zuno General Insurance

Zuno General Insurance, formerly known as Edelweiss General Insurance, is a new-age digital insurer with an aspiration to reimagine Insurance to make it easy, friendly, and transparent. Amidst all the jargon and seriousness, Zuno is the friendly voice speaking in a language you understand, and listening to what you have to say, stepping in at the right time, so that you don’t have to worry when things don’t go as planned. Zuno is the friend you can always turn to for help, with the confidence that we will have your back at all times.

At Zuno GI, the focus is on building trust through digital solutions that are intuitive and responsive, using consumer insights and data analytics to drive innovation and experience. Our consumer insight driven strategy focused on customers’ experience; innovative solutions and an intuitive digital platform differentiate us in a competitive market.

Zuno GI started operations in 2018. We have over 8 million customers and a growing omnichannel distribution on digital rails. The company has presence across key digital marketing places and partnerships with Maruti, Tata Motors, Mahindra, Skoda, Volkswagen, Jeep, Royal Enfield, PolicyBazaar, Turtlemint, PhonePe, Insurance Dekho, Fedbank Financial Services, Dvara KGFS, Repco Home Finance, Renewbuy, Bajaj Capital, Anand Rathi Global Finance, Avanse Financial Services, Spinny, Nido Home Finance, ECL finance, Mehsana Urban Co-Operative Bank, PolicyBoss, Jio insurance brokers, Coverfox, ORIX leasing & financial Services India Ltd, SMAS auto leasing India Pvt Ltd.s

For more information, visit www.hizuno.com.

Being Human Clothing, the fashion and lifestyle brand founded by Salman Khan, is celebrating the actor’s birthday in true Salman style, with energy, warmth, and a whole lot of fun. This year, the brand is marking the occasion with a special Birthday Sale, paired with a lively campaign that brings together fashion, surprise, and celebration.
 

Being Human Clothing Celebrates Salman Khan’s Birthday with FLAT 50% OFF
 

Leading the celebrations is Being Human Clothing’s playful new campaign, “Cake Fake B’day For Real,” which looks at birthdays a little differently. Instead of predictable celebrations, the campaign adds an element of surprise, keeping things light, joyful, and true to Salman Khan’s larger-than-life personality.
 

A key highlight of the celebration sees Sunil Grover stepping in to enact Salman Khan, delivering a moment filled with humour and familiarity that fans instantly relate to. The playful act is followed by Salman Khan himself, bringing the campaign thought to life and tying it directly to the birthday offer in a way that feels effortless and fun.
 

“This year’s “Cake Fake, B’Day for Real” campaign is our playful nod to the joy and energy that Salman Mamu brings into people’s lives. By taking the celebrations live with a 50% exclusive birthday sale in stores and online, we wanted to create a digital moment that fans everywhere can be part of—no matter where they are. It’s our way of saying thank you to everyone who continues to support the Being Human Clothing family and Salman Mamu,” says Ayaan Agnihotri, Executive Director at Four Aces Fashion House, Being Human Clothing.

Campaign Link – www.instagram.com/p/DSg4pjekYWH/?hl=en
 

To make the celebration even more special for fans and shoppers, Being Human Clothing is offering birthday-exclusive discounts:

• A flat 50% off across all Being Human Clothing exclusive brand stores, department stores, and MBOs starting 25^th – 27^th December, 2025.

• A minimum 50% off, available exclusively on www.beinghumanclothing.com, as part of the SKB Birthday Celebration starting 24^th – 27^th December, 2025.

The sale covers menswear, womenswear, accessories and everyday essentials, giving customers a chance to refresh their wardrobes with Being Human Clothing’s consciously designed collections, comfortable, contemporary pieces made for everyday life and celebration alike.
 

With Cake Fake B’day For Real, Being Human Clothing turns Salman Khan’s birthday into more than just a sale. It becomes a shared celebration, cheerful, unexpected, and full of heart, reflecting the close connection Salman Khan continues to share with audiences across the country.
 

The Being Human Clothing Birthday Sale and SKB Birthday Celebration will be available for a limited period across offline stores nationwide and exclusively online at Being Human Clothing.
 

Instagram | Website

Marwari Catalysts Group, focused on building founders from Tier II and Tier III cities, has announced the launch of Thrive 10.0, the latest edition of its flagship founder-support programme. This edition places a strong strategic focus on two high-impact and rapidly growing sectors in India: DefenceTech and AgriTech.
 

MCats Group Launches Thrive 10.0 to Empower DefenceTech and AgriTech Startups in India
 

Thrive 10.0 is designed to support early-stage and growth-stage startup founders working in Defence Technology and Agricultural Technology by providing practical mentorship, sector-specific insights, and structured venture-building support. The programme aims to help founders build scalable, sustainable businesses that address real-world challenges in these critical sectors.
 

As part of Thrive 10.0, Marwari Catalysts Group is introducing a corporate-linked pathway, enabling select founders to gain access to industry networks, corporate partnerships, and real-world business opportunities. This pathway will be seamlessly integrated into the programme, enhancing value for founders without operating as a separate initiative.
 

The launch of Thrive 10.0 comes at a pivotal moment as India’s DefenceTech market is projected to reach $19 billion by 2030, fueled by a 75% domestic procurement mandate and a surge in dual-use technologies. Simultaneously, the AgriTech sector is witnessing a digital revolution, with a projected valuation of over $34 billion by 2027 as precision farming and AI-driven supply chains become national priorities.
 

Focus on High-Impact Sectors: DefenceTech and AgriTech

Commenting on the launch, Sushil Sharma, CEO & Founder of Marwari Catalysts Group, said, “With the Indian government’s ‘Year of Reforms’ 2025 providing unprecedented policy support and a record $1 billion+ in venture capital flowing into Defencetech and Agritech sectors in the first half of the year alone, there has never been a more lucrative or strategically significant time for founders to scale innovations that safeguard India’s food and national security.”
 

India’s DefenceTech ecosystem is witnessing rapid growth driven by indigenisation, innovation, and government initiatives, while AgriTech continues to play a vital role in improving farmer productivity, sustainability, and rural livelihoods. Thrive 10.0 aligns with these national priorities by supporting founders building meaningful solutions in these domains.
 

What Thrive 10.0 Offers

Founders selected for Thrive 10.0 will benefit from:

• Structured learning programmes tailored to DefenceTech and AgriTech

• Mentorship from experienced founders and industry experts

• Ecosystem exposure and startup network access

• Opportunities for corporate engagement and industry collaboration
   

The programme is designed to help founders move forward with clarity, strategic direction, and execution confidence.
 

Marwari Catalysts Group continues to strengthen India’s startup ecosystem by backing purpose-driven innovation from emerging regions. The launch of Thrive 10.0 marks another significant step in supporting startups in sectors that are critical to India’s economic and technological future.
 

Applications for Thrive 10.0 are now open for founders building innovative solutions in DefenceTech and AgriTech.
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About Marwari Catalysts Group
Marwari Catalysts Group (MCats) is one of India’s fastest-growing startup ecosystem player (Accelerator and Venture Studio), with mentors with skin in the game supporting 100+ early-stage ventures across 20+ cities backed by SEBI-approved CAT-I AIF. MCats provide capital, mentorship, and global market access to founders. Its portfolio has already created 5,000+ jobs while driving inclusion through 35% women-led startups and successfully done 11+ exits. We are headquartered in Jodhpur with regional offices in Mumbai, Bengaluru and Jaipur.

When a TV suddenly stops working right before a big family movie night or a child’s school year begins and they urgently need a fast, reliable laptop, waiting months to save enough money is not an option. Big-ticket gadgets and appliances often come with hefty price tags, making home upgrades feel overwhelming. But with smart financing options like the Easy EMI Loan—a form of the consumer durable loan—individuals can bring home essential appliances and the latest tech without draining their savings or stressing about upfront costs. This option allows to bring home the favourite products immediately.

Make your home appliance purchase more affordable with the Bajaj Finserv Easy EMI Loan

Simply head to the Easy EMI Loan page on the Bajaj Finserv website. Select the desired product, take the loan approval online and head to a partner store. The total cost can then be split into affordable monthly installments that suit their budget. Select products can even be taken home immediately with zero down payment.

What can be purchased with a consumer durable loan?
Whether someone is planning a home makeover, boosting productivity with powerful gadgets, or adding convenience to their kitchen, a consumer durable loan supports a wide range of purchases:

Entertainment and work essentials

• Mobile phones: Seamlessly switch to the latest cutting-edge 5G smartphones, perfect for staying connected indoors, outdoors, and on the go. 

• Smart televisions (LED/4K): Dive into immersive streaming with vibrant visuals that make family movie nights and cozy winter gatherings truly special. 

• Laptops: Power through work, studies, or gaming sessions with high-performance devices designed to keep up with a fast-paced lifestyle.

Major appliances

• Refrigerators: Keep the food fresh longer with energy-efficient models from leading brands that combine style with sustainability. 

• Air conditioners: Beat the heat and stay comfortable year-round with smart, energy-saving cooling solutions tailored to different spaces.

• Washing machines: Simplify the laundry with fully automatic washers available in various capacities to suit the household needs.

Personal tech and accessories

• Smartwatches, headphones, and more: Stay fit, connected, and stylish with the latest wearable gadgets and high-quality audio gear.

Kitchen and home essentials

• Microwaves, mixers, and more: Streamline the cooking experience with compact, feature-packed kitchen gadgets that save time and effort.

• Home appliances: From advanced air purifiers to efficient vacuum cleaners, elevate the daily living with products designed for clean, fresh, and comfortable homes.

Limited-time offers on electronics and appliances

• Flat Rs. 1,000 cashback on select purchases.

With EMIs starting as low as Rs. 830 per month, bringing home the favourite products has never been easier or more affordable.
 

*Terms and conditions apply. Check with partner store for details.

Why smart shoppers choose the consumer durable loan
Life doesn’t wait—and neither should essential purchases. This loan option is designed to work around the lifestyle and budget, making big purchases feel easy:

• Keep your savings intact: Avoid draining emergency funds or savings just to buy essentials or upgrade tech.

• Manageable monthly payments: Spread the cost over several months, keeping budgets comfortable without surprises.

• Flexible options for every wallet: Whether shorter or longer repayment periods are preferred, EMI plans can be tailored accordingly.

• Take advantage of deals: Combine the loan with festive discounts and cashback offers to get great products at even better prices.

By making technology and home essentials affordable right now, the Easy EMI Loan solves the urgent needs.

Upgrade effortlessly with Bajaj Finserv Easy EMI Loan
Bringing the latest gadgets and appliances home becomes simple and wallet-friendly with the Bajaj Finserv Easy EMI Loan. It allows buyers to split the cost of big purchases into easy monthly payments. Tools like the Maha Bachat Savings Calculator help combine brand offers, dealer discounts, and EMI benefits to maximise savings. Before applying, reviewing the consumer durable loan fees and charges ensures complete clarity.

Here’s how the process works:

• Choose the product online: Go to the Easy EMI Loan page. Choose the product—be it a smartphone, refrigerator, or home appliance.

• Check your eligibility: Enter basic details like name, mobile number, and PAN, then complete a quick KYC.

• Get your loan limit instantly: See the approved amount that can be used to make the purchase.

• Visit a partner store: Explore the product in person and get assistance from a store representative.

• Select your EMI plan: Choose a repayment option that fits the budget, complete minimal paperwork, and confirm your purchase.

With the Easy EMI Loan, upgrading the lifestyle becomes faster, smarter, and more affordable. The flexible repayment options, quick approval, and helpful savings tools make it easier to bring home the desired products.

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.