Home Blog Page 468

‘Jio Presents Hamleys Wonderland in Association with Ajmera Realty’ – India’s Largest Family Festival is Back at Jio World Garden, Mumbai, from 19th to 30th Dec

Jio presents Hamleys Wonderland in association with Ajmera Realty, India’s largest family festival, will be held at Jio World Garden in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex from 19th to 30th December 2024.

A stunning aerial view of Jio Presents Hamleys Wonderland in association with Ajmera Realty

With over 100 experiences, including rides and entertainment zones to engage families and create holiday memories, the event promises to be a captivating experience for the whole family. The event is designed with Jio’s philosophy of making life beautiful for every Indian at the core.

Guests can soak up the city’s festive magic with the Flying Santa, who will zip across the venue on his merry sleigh and spread the festive cheer. The Hamleys Grand Parade will be the highlight of the event, and children will get to meet-and-greet their favourite toon characters, Hamley & Hattie Bear, and the Wonder friends.

Jio is the presenting partner of Hamleys Wonderland, which is in association with Ajmera Realty – a leading real estate developer with a strong legacy of over 55 years based in Mumbai with a presence in multiple cities across India.

Hamleys will launch two special attractions this season – Martian Adventure and House of Illusions. All-time favourite rides such as the Ferris Wheel, Scrambler, Wipeout, and Carousel will return, along with exclusive experiences such as the Haunted Circus and Glow in the Dark.

The event also features a Carnival Game Zone, Hamleys Play Area, and World Food Festival, among other amazing entertainment avenues. A massive and fun Lego Playground and Barbie Zone will undoubtedly thrill all.

Taking place over the expansive 1.40 lakh sq.ft. of open space at the Jio World Garden in the heart of Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Jio presents Hamleys Wonderland in association with Ajmera Realty was launched as an annual calendar event in 2019 that would further strengthen BKC’s position as the emerging cultural hub within Mumbai. Established in 2015, Jio World Garden has been instrumental in positioning BKC as the epicentre of cultural events within Mumbai by hosting some of the best, biggest, and premium events in the city.

Among the other partners that have activated, the event features IDFC First Bank Credit Cards, which will provide discounts to their customers. New brands such as Little Joys, Raskik, and Arun Ice Creams will be present at the event, in addition to our long-standing partners such as RElan, Recron, Topps, Edamama, Mothercare, Pottery Barn Kids, Barbie, and Lego.

Tickets can be purchased on BookMyShow and range between Rs 999 to Rs 1499 for entry.

The Art of Living Propels a Powerful Shift Toward Sustainable Agriculture

In a transformative effort to reshape Indias agricultural landscape, a strong collaboration between The Art of Living Social Projects, Deutsche Gesellschaft fr Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), key Indian ministries, and NABARD is propelling a nationwide shift toward sustainable farming practices. This project focuses on advancing agroecological techniques in Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, and Assam, with a particular emphasis on elevating women in agriculture – a cause deeply aligned with The Art of Living Social Projects’ commitment to agricultural sustainability and women’s leadership in rural development.

A traditional start paves the way for an immersive journey

Encouraging Women Leaders in Agriculture

A key element of the Agroecological Transformation Processes in India (SuATI) project is the training of women leaders in agriculture. Over 4,000 Krishi Sakhis (women farmers) have already been enabled with knowledge in natural farming, transforming not just their farming practices, but their roles as change agents in their communities. These women are fostering eco-friendly practices, inspiring local progress, and becoming pillars of positive change in rural India.

Intensive training in natural farming to revitalise rural economies

Expanding Reach: Training Cluster Coordinators

To further amplify this impact, 140 Cluster Coordinators will receive specialised training to expand the adoption of agroecological practices through Women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs). The Art of Living Social Projects’ holistic approach enhances this initiative by incorporating Sudarshan Kriya, a powerful breathing technique known for its benefits in stress management and emotional resilience. This unique combination of practical farming knowledge and emotional well-being ensures that the Krishi Sakhis are not only skilled in sustainable agriculture but also geared to lead, mentor, and inspire others in their communities.

Intensive Training for Cluster Coordinators

The first batch of 40 Cluster Coordinators recently completed an intensive training session at The Art of Living International Center in Bengaluru. The organisation, renowned for its sustainability and climate action initiatives, provided these coordinators with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration needed to promote natural farming in rural areas. Equipped with essential skills and inspired to lead change, these supervisors are now ready to promote climate-resilient farming practices across the region. Collaborating closely with an empowering network of Krishi Sakhis, they are set to ignite a self-sustaining agricultural revolution contributing to rural resurgence.

Reshaping Rural Development through Women

The SuATI project demonstrates the transformative power of women-led, localised initiatives in driving meaningful change in rural India. By uplifting women farmers, the project not only advances agroecology but also strengthens rural resilience and enhances food security. Through the collaboration of The Art of Living Social Projects, GIZ, and Karnataka-SRLM, a future is being paved where women will play a pivotal role in transforming India’s agricultural landscape, reshaping the very fabric of rural development. Armed with knowledge and leadership skills, Krishi Sakhis will transform agriculture from the ground up – creating a ripple effect that will resonate throughout their communities for generations to come.

About The Art of Living Social Projects

The Art of Living, inspired by the vision of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, is a global non-profit organisation dedicated to nurturing peace, well-being, and humanitarian service.

By promoting eco-friendly farming practices and providing essential training to rural communities, The Art of Living is addressing challenges of food security and environmental sustainability. The organisation places a special emphasis on women’s leadership, offering them the skills and resources to drive change, creating a ripple effect that contributes to the social and economic upliftment of entire communities.

In addition,The Art of Living is actively involved in other critical areas, including water conservation, afforestation, renewable energy, waste management, and rural development. Through these combined efforts, The Art of Living is creating a more sustainable, resilient, and harmonious future for all.

Follow: www.instagram.com/artofliving.sp/

Post: x.com/artofliving_sp

Message: www.linkedin.com/showcase/artofliving-sp

Chennai Legends Crowned Winners of the 3rd Edition of Ability Sports League, Supported by Cycle Pure Agarbathi

Cycle Pure Agarbathi, India’s leading agarbathi manufacturer and title sponsors for Ability Sports League T20, concluded the final match, held on 16th December at Alur KSCA Ground, Yelahanka. In a thrilling final match of the 3rd edition of the league, Chennai Legends emerged victorious, defeating Bengaluru Eagles by 53 runs. The match showcased the exceptional skills and abilities of wheelchair athletes from across the region. The event was graced by the presence of Spandan Kaniyar, Sports Head & Deputy News Editor, Kannada Prabha, Mukund Shetty, Sports Head, Samyuktha Karnataka, and Krishnappa Gowtham, Indian all-rounder who represents Karnataka in domestic cricket, and marquee player of Mysore Warriors.

The 3rd edition of the Ability Sports League witnessed Chennai Legends triumph over the Bengaluru Eagles

Chennai Legends showcased a sensational performance, led by Suresh Selvams explosive innings of 111 runs off just 43 balls. Despite a resilient effort from Saliesh Yadav of Bengaluru Eagles, who scored 42 runs off 28 balls, the match belonged to the Legends. Jenish Antos outstanding bowling spell, taking 4 wickets for 24 runs in 4 overs, played a pivotal role in securing a memorable victory for the Chennai Legends.

Mr. Arjun Ranga, Managing Director,Cycle Pure Agarbathi, said, “We congratulate the Chennai Legends for their brilliant performance, and all the participants for their dedication and spirit. The Ability Sports League T20 celebrates the abilities of athletes beyond physical challenges, and fosters a spirit of inclusivity, courage, and perseverance in everyone, which we hope to continue to bring to other sporting leagues.”

Cycle Pure Agarbathi has made significant strides in fostering a vibrant sports culture. By supporting events including the Tiger Cup and the victorious Mysore Warriors in the 2024 Maharaja Trophy, the organization has positively impacted the local community and inspired aspiring athletes.

About NRRS

The Mysuru-based NRRS was founded by Shri N. Ranga Rao in 1948. A true visionary and philanthropist, Shri Ranga Rao created the ubiquitous Cycle Pure Agarbathi which has, today, become the largest-selling incense stick brand in the world. From a home-grown enterprise, NR Group has evolved into a successfully run business conglomerate with an established presence in India and abroad. The Group has diversified into various business categories like functional air care products (Lia brand of room fresheners and car fresheners), wellness home fragrance products (IRIS) under Ripple Fragrances, floral extracts (NESSO), and Rangsons Technologies. Today, it is truly an Agarbathi to Aerospace conglomerate as it is also involved in making parts for defense helicopters. The organization has largely committed to social responsibilities and fulfills them, through its charity arm ‘NR Foundation’.

NR Group today is managed by the third generation of the Ranga family. For more information on NR Group, please visit www.nrgroup.co.in.

Razorpay POS Launches Industry First AI-Powered ‘Razorpay Recon’ to Automate Reconciliation for Businesses; Boosting Financial Operations Efficiency by 80%

With an intent to reform financial data management for businesses, Razorpay POS, the offline payments arm of the fintech major, today announced the launch of ‘Razorpay Recon’, an industry-first AI-powered reconciliation solution to streamline and automate financial operations for businesses. The solution aims to empower businesses to manage large volumes of transactions with greater accuracy, boosting the efficiency of financial operations by 80%.

What is Reconciliation and why is it important

Simply put, reconciliation of transactions refers to the process of verifying and matching the records of financial transactions such as bank statements, payment gateways, invoices, and internal transaction logs between two or more systems to ensure accuracy and consistency. Reconciliation is crucial because it helps businesses identify discrepancies, such as missing transactions, duplicate entries, or errors in amounts, which can lead to financial loss or fraud if left unaddressed.

In todays fast-paced business environment, managing reconciliation has become increasingly complex due to the sheer volume and variety of transactions. Digital payments in India continue to surge, with a year-on-year (YoY) transactional volume growth of 42% in FY 2023-24, which is poised to grow by three times in FY 2028-29. Many businesses deal with multiple payment methods-online, offline, and custom – which makes manual reconciliation not only time-consuming but also error-prone. Additionally, the use of different systems for payment collections, disbursals, and financial reporting adds to the chaos, creating separate data sources that are difficult to align. This fragmented approach often results in undetected discrepancies, delayed action on financial issues, and increased risk of fraud, ultimately threatening the financial stability and compliance of businesses.

Razorpay Recon addresses these challenges by streamlining financial reconciliation processes and providing businesses with better control over their financial operations. Leveraging the power of AI, Razorpay Recon aims to enable businesses to reconcile transactions, as many as 200 million per month, more accurately, reducing manual effort and minimizing errors, thereby improving financial operations productivity by 80%. The solution is designed to tackle critical issues faced by finance teams-particularly in offline retail-including discrepancies, fraud risks, money loss incidents, and inefficiencies in manual reconciliations. Razorpay Recon supports multiple types of reconciliation, including online (such as payment gateway transactions, settlements, and bank statements), offline (POS transactions, bank files, and cash statements), and custom use cases tailored to industry-specific needs.

Commenting on the launch, Kunal Gothivarekar, Head of Razorpay POS said, “As businesses scale and transaction volumes increase, managing financial reconciliation has become more complex and time-consuming. At Razorpay, we recognize that this challenge can lead to costly errors and inefficiencies, especially for enterprises with diverse payment methods. Razorpay Recon isn’t just a tool-it’s a transformative solution designed to automate and simplify the reconciliation process, saving businesses valuable time and resources. By leveraging AI and advanced analytics, we’re helping businesses not only stay on top of their financial data but also proactively identify discrepancies and mitigate risks. With Razorpay Recon, businesses can now focus on growth and innovation, leaving behind the burdens of manual reconciliation.”

Razorpay Recon offers a user-friendly, self-serve dashboard that simplifies the reconciliation process. Unlike traditional systems, Razorpay Recon not only automates the reconciliation of financial records but also provides advanced analytics to help businesses identify mismatches, uncover discrepancies, and track trends in their financial data over time.

About Razorpay POS

Razorpay POS, the offline payments arm of Razorpay, is a comprehensive payment solution that empowers businesses to streamline their offline payment processes, enhance customer satisfaction, and enable businesses to give their customers a superior in-store checkout experience. With state-of-the-art devices like mPOS, Dynamic Soundbox, Android Smart POS, POS Mini, and Pin-on-Mobile, Razorpay POS helps businesses stay ahead of the curve. Through the acquisition of Ezetap (now Razorpay POS) in August 2022, Razorpay forayed into the world of offline payments. With this vertical, Razorpay has evolved into an omnichannel payment and banking platform for businesses that helps Indian businesses with comprehensive and innovative solutions built over robust technology to address the entire length and breadth of the payment and banking journey for any business.

Blue Dart’s ‘Merry Express’ Delivers Festive Cheer with Special Discounts on Domestic and International Shipments

Blue Dart Express Limited, South Asias premier express-air, integrated transportation, and distribution logistics company, is ushering in the holiday season with its “Merry Express” offer. Available from 15th December 2024 to 15th January 2025, this festive offer provides customers with discounted rates on domestic and international shipments, ensuring gifts reach loved ones in time for the holidays.

‘Merry Express’ offer

Customers can avail themselves of a up to 40% off on domestic shipments weighing between 2-10 kg, and up to 50% off on international shipments with specific weights ranging from 3-25 kg across India. The offer applies to both domestic priority and international shipments, with terms and conditions. As a customer-centric company, Blue Dart is committed to continuously enhancing its products and services, providing customers with added value during this festive season. With the Merry Express offer, customers can send festive gifts to over 56,000 locations across India and 220 countries and territories worldwide. The company leverages advanced technology and automation to ensure the speed, safety, and reliability of each delivery, consistently providing excellence at every touchpoint.

We are excited to offer this special promotion as part of our ongoing commitment to delivering joy and ensuring seamless experiences for our customers during the festive season,” said Dipanjan Banerjee, Chief Commercial Officer, Blue Dart. “Our Merry Express offer embodies our dedication to providing innovative solutions, speed, and reliability, making it easier for our customers to share their festive cheer with loved ones across the globe.”

This limited-time offer is available at all Blue Dart retail stores and extends to home bookings with doorstep pickup at no additional cost.

Customers can contact Blue Darts Customer Care at 1860 233 1234 or email customerservice@bluedart.com.

For more information or to book shipments, visit www.bluedart.com.

About Blue Dart Express Ltd.

Blue Dart Express Ltd., South Asias premier express air and integrated transportation & distribution company, offers secure and reliable delivery of consignments to over 56,000+ locations in India. Blue Dart is a provider of choice for its stakeholders due to its customer centric approach and aims to further strengthen this partnership. As part of DHL Group’s DHL eCommerce division, Blue Dart accesses the largest and most comprehensive express and logistics network worldwide, covering over 220 countries and territories, and offers an entire spectrum of distribution services including air express, freight forwarding, supply chain solutions, customs clearance etc.

The Blue Dart team drives market leadership through its motivated people, dedicated air and ground capacity, cutting-edge technology, wide range of innovative, vertical specific products and value-added services to deliver unmatched standards of service quality to its customers. Blue Darts market leadership is further validated by its position as the nation’s most innovative and awarded express logistics company for exhibiting reliability, superior brand experience and sustainability which include recognition as one of ‘Indias Best Companies to Work For’ by The Great Place to Work Institute, India, ranked amongst ‘Best Multinational Workplaces in Asia’ by The Great Place to Work Institute, Asia, voted a ‘Superbrand’ and ‘Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brand’, listed as one of Fortune 500’s ‘Indias Largest Corporations’ and Forbes ‘Indias Super 50 Companies’ to name a few. Blue Dart’s Diversity and Inclusion initiatives have also led to it being recognized as one of India’s ‘Best Workplaces for Women’ in 2021 and ‘Best Organisations for Women’ in 2022 by the Economic Times.

Blue Dart fulfils its social responsibility of climate protection (GoGreen), disaster management (GoHelp) and education (GoTeach) through its GoPrograms.

11 Luxury Locations to Experience Magical New Year Celebrations

The holiday season evokes fond memories and allows you to connect with your loved ones in ways that promise a lifetime of precious souvenirs. Say hello to 2025 with these stunning locations that let you celebrate with your family and friends in style and romance the festive season.

https://www.newsvoir.com/images/article/image1/30558_Vienna.jpg

Christmas Market in Vienna

From Christmas markets, beachside parties, elegant soirees to offbeat local traditions, these destinations invite you to celebrate a memorable New Year.

Christmas Markets –
Amsterdam:

The recently opened Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam, and the historic Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam, are both centrally located in Amsterdam, making them idyllic respites for visitors seeking art and culture in one of Europe’s most exciting winter wonderlands. Celebrating its 8th anniversary, the magical Christmas Village is located in Museumplein (a quick walk from the hotels) and features an amazing array of culinary delights and shopping from December 12-16. Travelers can top off the night with a canal cruise that showcases the city’s Christmas light displays.

Vienna:
Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna, the newest hotel addition to the luxurious Anantara brand, embodies a rich history. It was originally designed for the 1873 World’s Fair by revered Austrian architect Theophil Hansen. Previously home to the Police Headquarters and several other municipal offices in Vienna, Anantara is bringing the Palais Hansen back to its true luster after a significant renovation. A short fifteen-minute walk from the hotel is the Chriskindlmarkt, the famous Viennese Christmas Market, which extends throughout City Hall Square and features a pop-up ice rink winding through the trees. Attendees enter through a picturesque archway, where they are greeted with a sea of twinkling lights, decorated gift booths and the welcoming smells of mulled wine and freshly baked bread- perfect for a chilly winter night.

https://www.newsvoir.com/images/article/image2/30558_Soneva_Secret.jpg

Soneva Secret – Overwater Hideaway

Beachside Parties –
Maldives:
Soneva Secret –

With its pristine natural setting, every magical experience at the ultra-luxurious Soneva Secret is designed to create lasting memories this season. Embark on an extraordinary journey that features deserted island picnics, underwater treasure hunts, live entertainment, pop up dining and a gala dinner.

Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani –
Indulge in a winter of luxury at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani with a collection of exclusive experiences. The magic of the festive season is also set to come alive at each of Soneva’s island resorts with Christmas celebrations and visits from Santa, including a signature New Year’s Eve Journey filled with sumptuous dining, live music and unforgettable entertainment. This winter, award-winning chefs will be presenting an array of culinary experiences and special menus.

Friends and family can spend the holidays together at Soneva thanks to The Residences. The elevated concept, for villas ranging from three to nine bedrooms, features the services of a dedicated Villa Manager and Villa Attendant available 24/7, a private chef on call and dedicated buggy service. As the epitome of luxury living, Soneva’s Residences also present complimentary services, such as personalised dining, Soneva Soul wellness treatments, fitness and movement classes and tennis coaching. Children and teenagers can also make the most of inspiring daily programmes at The Den, in addition to exciting watersports, wellness sessions at Soneva Soul and island activities with British academic mentoring firm Oppidan Education.

Thailand:
Anantara Koh Yao Resorts & Villas, Phuket –

Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas is the perfect beach destination for your winter vacation, offering an escape to a stunning location on the unspoiled island of Koh Yao Yai. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views of Phang Nga Bay, this resort features elegant beachfront villas and spacious pool suites. One can take part in exciting leisure activities like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and island hopping, or unwind with traditional Thai treatments at the spa. Whether youre indulging in world-class cuisine, exploring nearby islands, or enjoying the peaceful surroundings, the resort’s mix of adventure and relaxation makes it the ideal getaway for a rejuvenating winter retreat.

Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort, Krabi –
Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for an end-of-year beach getaway. Set along the serene Klong Nin Beach, this paradise boasts stylish beachfront rooms and villas, many with private pools, ideal for unwinding amidst stunning natural beauty. You can indulge in exquisite Thai cuisine, rejuvenating spa treatments, and a variety of water sports, all while enjoying a peaceful escape from the bustle of the holiday season. With its laid-back atmosphere, impeccable service, and breathtaking views, it’s the ultimate destination to celebrate the year’s end in style.

Snow-clad Celebrations –
A Powder Perfect Snow, Ski and Spa Escape at Aman Le Melezin – Courchevel, France

With high snowfall expected in the Alps this season, Aman Le Melezin in Courchevel is preparing to welcome skiers and non-skiers alike into its alpine home. Open for the winter season from 12 December – 6 April 2025, the property blends classic French chalet charm with Aman’s signature elegance. With exceptional ski-in, ski-out access to the world-class slopes of Les Trois Valles and an extensive Aman Spa, as well as signature culinary experiences including Korean Hot Pot on the terrace overlooking the piste, offering the perfect winter escape.

Local Traditions –
Amanbagh, India –

Create unforgettable memories with your loved ones beneath the open skies of glorious Rajasthan and the Aravalli Hills at the serene estate of Amanbagh. On Christmas day, indulge in a festive feast curated by our culinary team, accompanied by vibrant tabla rhythms, flute melodies and Rajasthani folk music. An appearance on the sidelines from Babu the camel, replacing Rudolph, will keep younger ones entertained.

Showcasing local crafts and cuisine, guests can learn the unique regional art of lac bangle making at a pop-up artisan’s workshop on the hotel’s grounds and discover how the natural resin can be shaped to make colourful jewellery. Guests can also discover the ancient art of henna with the resident artist to create beautiful, temporary body art while enjoying the enchanting sounds of the traditional instrument ravanahatha during the session.

Further opportunities to experience the traditions that have shaped Indian culture await on New Year’s Day, with the chance to try Rajasthan’s own ‘sport of kings’, camel polo. Spend the last day of 2024 at Amanbagh’s annual Indian Fair, where fortune tellers, fire dancers and Manganiyar singers celebrate with traditional Northern Indian flair. A gala dinner follows, ringing in 2025 together.

Amangalla, Sri Lanka –
For a gracious, old-world festive season, Amangalla is the perfect setting, resting within the ramparts of the 17th-century Galle Fort on Sri Lanka’s south coast. On Christmas Day, join in the Great Hall, or Zaal, for an a la carte Christmas dinner and an evening of festive cheer. The next day indulge in the island’s finest local specialties at the themed poolside dinner with live cooking stations serving fresh Sri Lankan curries, hoppers, pittu and kottu, while a vibrant cultural show and live music make for an unforgettable evening.

Begin the final evening of 2024 with poolside cocktails and music by a local band. Enjoy a cultural show featuring traditional Sri Lankan performances before continuing the festivities in the Dining Room, where a five-course dinner is served, accompanied by live jazz. As part of Amangalla’s commitment to giving back to the local community, guests can support Neth Savan Sarana, the Deaf and Blind School in Ahangama, Sri Lanka. On Christmas Day, gifts purchased through savings from Amangalla’s linen programme will be presented to the children, spreading festive cheer.

Amankora, Bhutan –
Designed to encompass the healing embrace of the mountains and instill the spirit of renewal that the Himalayas is known for, Amankora will celebrate this with a programme of festive experiences designed to create unforgettable memories with loved ones.

Celebrate Christmas morning with the lighting of butter lamps at Bhutan’s sacred temples, a ritual believed to dispel negativity and usher in blessings. Experience this spiritually moving tradition at monasteries across Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang. Savour indulgent festive flavours with loved ones followed by a special Christmas lunch, made with locally sourced ingredients.

Close out the year with a vibrant showcase of traditional mask dances and Bhutanese folk songs along with an exotic feast of Western and Bhutanese flavours. Gather by the bonfire with the Amankora family, sharing good wishes and raising a glass to new beginnings.

Welcome the New Year with morning blessings conducted by monks and local greetings followed by a delicious barbecue lunch and various cultural experiences across all lodges including archery, dart competitions, stone painting, singing bowl classes, and more.

Avani Alonso Martinez Madrid Hotel, Spain (Madrid) –
Avani Alonso Martnez Madrid Hotel is the perfect choice for a romantic New Year’s Eve getaway, offering one an authentic taste of Madrid’s vibrant celebrations. Just a short 15-minute walk from the iconic Puerta del Sol, guests can join the city’s beloved “Twelve Grapes of Luck” tradition, where each chime at midnight marks a grape eaten for good fortune in the year ahead. Surrounded by fireworks, live music, and thousands of revellers, the square’s electric atmosphere carries on well into the early morning. After the festivities, you can retreat to the hotel for a cosy night’s rest, waking up to a classic Madrid tradition: warm chocolate with churros, prepared by The Pantry at Avani using treats sourced from the city’s oldest and most beloved caf, Chocolateria San Gines.

Metropolis Healthcare Introduces Innovative Blood Collection Technology for Enhanced Patient Comfort

In an effort to improve the patient experience, Ameera Shah-led Metropolis Healthcare Limited, India’s second-largest and most respected pathology laboratory chain, has introduced the UltraTouch™ Push Button Blood Collection Set (PBBCS) across its service network. This state-of-the-art device features a thinner needle that reduces insertion pain and makes blood collection more comfortable for first-time patients, children, and the elderly. Aligned with Metropolis’ mission to improve patient care, this innovative approach aims to make the blood collection process quicker, safer, and less cumbersome for people of all ages.

https://www.newsvoir.com/images/article/image1/30567_Metropolis_Blood.jpg

Metropolis Healthcare introduces Innovative Blood Collection Technology for enhanced patient comfort

Mr. Surendran Chemmenkotil, Chief Executive Officer, Metropolis Healthcare Limited said, “At Metropolis, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality and innovation in our diagnostic services. The UltraTouch™ PBBCS represents a significant advancement in patient comfort and safety during blood collection, while also ensuring the accuracy of our results. By leveraging this cutting-edge technology, we are addressing gaps in diagnostics to enhance the overall patient experience.”

Blood tests are crucial for over 70 per cent of medical decisions; however, many patients hesitate due to concerns about pain. Even studies indicate that nearly 80 percent of patients believe their blood draw experience significantly impacts their overall satisfaction with healthcare providers.

A recent study published in the Journal of Evolution of Medical and Dental Sciences(JEMDS) evaluated the impact of the UltraTouch™ PBBCS at Metropolis Healthcare’s Global Reference Laboratory in Mumbai over a one-month period. Over 90% of participants reported minimal discomfort with no signs of hemolysis, leading to an improved overall experience. The laboratory parameters of potassium, iron, and haemoglobin levels also remained consistent. This assessment involved a diverse group of adult participants, focusing on the device’s effectiveness in reducing pain and ensuring the reliability of blood samples and needle injuries.

Mr. Kannan Alangadan, Chief Operating Officer, Metropolis Healthcare Limited said, “As someone deeply involved in patient care, I understand the anxiety that often accompanies with blood collection, At Metropolis, our focus is on elevating the patient experience through innovative technology and compassionate care. Our dedicated phlebotomists and technicians are committed to delivering exceptional service across our network. With a leading Net Promoter Score of 87, we continually prioritize patient comfort and satisfaction in every interaction.”

In addition to prioritizing patient comfort, the innovative blood collection system is designed to improve efficiency within laboratories. By reducing the time required for blood draws and minimizing the risk of complications, Metropolis Healthcare can ensure faster turnaround times for test results, ultimately benefiting patient care.

About Metropolis Healthcare Limited
Established in 1981, Metropolis Healthcare Limited is the second largest and the most respected diagnostics chain in India, with a widespread presence in 22 states, 3 Union Territories and over 700 towns. Metropolis touches millions of lives each year by providing actionable health insights to patients and doctors. Metropolis offers a comprehensive range of more than 4,000 plus tests and profiles, including advanced tests for the diagnosis of cancer, neurological disorders, infectious diseases, and various genetic abnormalities.

The company is empowered with a robust network of 202 labs, 4,336 service centres and over 10,000 touch points. Metropolis’ commitment to quality and accuracy in each test is reinforced by its consistent CAP proficiency score of more than 98% over the past decade, placing it among the top 1% laboratories worldwide for quality assurance. The Metropolis philosophy rests on the pillars of technological superiority, a warm, patient centric approach and reliable diagnostic reports.

For more information, please visit www.metropolisindia.com or click on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn.

Savita Chhabra and Asha Parekh Honor Shalini Passi with Breakthrough Influencer Award at NDTV Indian of the Year 2024

Hygienic Research Institute Pvt. Limited proudly marked a moment of recognition as its Founder and Board Advisor, Savita Chhabra, was invited as one of the esteemed guests of honour at the prestigious NDTV Indian of the Year 2024 Awards, held on December 6th at the Taj Palace, New Delhi. Her participation highlighted her influence and the institutes commitment to excellence in the industry.

Savita Chhabra and Asha Parekh honor Shalini Passi with Breakthrough Influencer Award at NDTV Indian of the Year 2024

The event brought together icons from politics, business, sports, entertainment, and beyond, spotlighting their remarkable contributions to shaping the nation’s future. Mrs. Chhabra joined legendary actress Asha Parekh to present the prestigious “Breakthrough Influencer of the Year 2024” award to internet sensation Shalini Passi. This accolade underscores Shalini’s impactful role in fostering innovation and creativity within the industry.

Adding glamour to this star-studded evening, Streax, a leading brand from HRIPL’s portfolio, proudly partnered as the Official Hair Styling Partner. The brand’s team of expert stylists curated elegant and sophisticated looks for all NDTV anchors and hosts, ensuring every guest shone with impeccable hairstyles crafted to perfection, complementing their radiant looks.

The NDTV Indian of the Year 2024 Awards celebrated excellence across a spectrum of fields, honouring distinguished individuals and organizations. The evening was enriched by heartfelt acceptance speeches and memorable performances, reflecting India’s rich cultural tapestry and spirit of unity.

About Hygienic Research Institute

Hygienic Research Institute Private Limited (HRIPL) is a prominent Indian leader in beauty and personal care products, specializing in hair care, skin care, and salon services. With over 60 years of legacy since 1957, HRIPL has grown from a single-brand promoter-owned entity to a multi-brand, multi-category organization backed by private equity and is known for brands like Vasmol, Streax, and Streax Professional, along with Florozone in skin care. Committed to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, HRIPL operates with a vision to offer excellent products and services globally while fostering growth and spreading happiness. The company boasts a robust manufacturing legacy across six locations, adhering to international quality standards. HRIPL is honored with accolades such as Great Place to Work, Best Workplace for Innovation, and recognition in the FMCG sector, underscoring its commitment to excellence in workplace culture and innovation.

Pokemon GO to Host India’s First City Safari in Mumbai

Pokemon GO, one of the leading augmented reality mobile games by Niantic, is thrilled to announce the much-awaited first live event, Pokemon GO City Safari. Mark your calendars for this extraordinary two-day adventure, taking place on Saturday, March 29, and Sunday, March 30, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. IST, across the City of Dreams, Mumbai.

https://www.newsvoir.com/images/article/image1/30572_Niantic.jpg

Pokemon GO City Safari in Mumbai

Pokemon GO City Safari is expected to attract players from across the globe, all eager to take part in this exciting event. Whether youre a seasoned Trainer or new to the Pokemon world, this event promises a citywide exploration like never before, blending Mumbai’s rich cultural essence with the magic of Pokemon GO.

Trainers will have a chance to experience the excitement across Mumbai’s iconic landmarks, local favourites, while catching, researching, and discovering an array of special Pokemon throughout the city. The event will feature exclusive gameplay, unique in-game bonuses and the opportunity to develop new friendships in the thriving Pokemon GO community.

Expressing his excitement on India’s first-ever Pokemon GO City Safari, Omar Tellez, Vice President for Emerging Markets at Niantic Inc., said, “At Niantic, we are committed to enhancing the Pokemon GO experience with new features and adventures. Trainers in India have been looking forward to great Pokemon GO events and we have been working towards providing them the best experience to immerse themselves in the world of Pokemon through our in-game events and local meetups. Through the Pokemon GO City Safari in Mumbai, we’re excited to bring a special opportunity for the Trainers and communities in India who constitute a key share of our Pokemon GO world.”

With Mudbray, the Donkey Pokemon, making its debut in Pokemon GO across City Safari events in 2025, the event promises to be action-packed. Trainers will have the opportunity to catch Mudbray alongside other rare encounters such as Alolan Meowth, Mr. Mime, Corsola, and even Shiny variants for the lucky ones.

Trainers will have the unique opportunity to explore the city alongside their Eevee, which will be wearing an explorer hat and can be caught during City Safari Special Research. This event-exclusive Pokemon can be evolved into any of Eevee’s known Evolutions such as Vaporeon, Jolteon, Flareon, Espeon, Umbreon, Leafeon, Glaceon, or Sylveon wearing an explorer hat. With the entire city to explore, the Eevee Explorers Timed Research experience will help Trainers to set off on an exciting tour.

Tickets for Pokemon GO City Safari: Mumbai are now available for purchase at just INR 499 for a one-day ticket. Trainers can choose to attend on either March 29 or March 30, 2025. For those looking to enhance their experience, optional add-ons are available, including the Raid Lover Add-On (INR 299) for extra raid benefits, the Egg-thusiast Add-On (INR 299) for egg-hatching bonuses, and the Extra Day Add-On (INR 399) for the ultimate two-day adventure. Tickets can be purchased via the Pokemon GO app under the Events section or on the Pokemon GO City Safari website. So, hurry up as tickets are available on a first come first served basis and subject to availability. Don’t miss this chance to explore Mumbai with the Pokemon GO community!

As the countdown to the Pokemon GO City Safari: Mumbai begins, even more surprises await to unfold! From additional in-game features to city-specific experiences, there’s plenty to look forward to. Stay connected through Pokemon GO’s official social media channels and in-app updates for the latest announcements and detailed event information as we get closer to the event.

Please be aware of your surroundings and follow guidelines from local health authorities when playing Pokemon GO. Upcoming events are subject to change. Be sure to follow us on social media, opt in to receiving push notifications, and subscribe to our emails to stay updated.

Avas Wellness Secures a Landmark Transaction of a Rs. 26.25 Crore Villa with Sotheby’s in Alibaug

Avas Wellness has achieved a significant milestone with its latest transaction, facilitated by the esteemed Sotheby’s Realty. This prestigious deal, valued at Rs. 26.25 crore with a stamp duty of Rs. 1.57 crore, marks the acquisition of a luxurious 5-bedroom villa spanning ~6,000 sq. ft. at Avas Living in Alibaug by a prominent HNI NRI buyer.

Avas Living, Alibaug

Situated in the serene locale of Awas, Alibaug, Avas Living continues to redefine luxury living by seamlessly integrating wellness, sustainability, and elegant design. The gated community has earned a stellar reputation for attracting high-profile individuals, including marquee investors such as Adar Poonawalla and residents such as Ram Kapoor, Virat Kohli, Junaid Shaikh, Shobhaa De, and many others. With properties now commanding premium rates of over Rs. 40,000 per sq. ft., this transaction underscores the growing demand for lifestyle-driven investments among discerning buyers seeking holistic living solutions.

Often referred to as the Hamptons of Mumbai, Alibaug remains a top choice for HNIs, NRIs, and celebrities. Its proximity to Mumbai, exclusivity, and natural beauty make it ideal for second homes and luxury investments. Connectivity will be further enhanced by the newly constructed Mumbai Trans Harbour Bridge and the upcoming Rewas Karanja Bridge, reducing travel time between Mumbai and Alibaug to just 1 hour 10 minutes by 2026.

Speaking about the milestone, Aditya Kilachand, Founder & CEO of Avas Wellness, shared, “At Avas Wellness, we strive to create spaces that transcend traditional luxury, offering a lifestyle that nurtures the mind, body, and soul. It’s truly rewarding to see Avas Living recognized as a benchmark for wellness-focused real estate.”

Buyers are drawn to Avas Living for its exceptional amenities, including a state-of-the-art Wellness Center and Spa, seamless property management services, and a hassle-free investment experience. The community’s emphasis on wellness, combined with world-class facilities, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a balanced and elevated lifestyle.

As Avas Wellness expands its offerings, there is much to look forward to, including the upcoming Avas Racquet Club. This new addition will further elevate the living experience, providing residents with exclusive ways to stay active and relaxed. With its commitment to creating spaces that nurture the mind, body, and soul, Avas has set a new benchmark for luxury living in India.