This holiday season, Amaltas is redefining the art of gifting with the launch of the Red Bow Collection – a perfect gift that is simple, classic and wrapped with love. Perfectly timed for Christmas and the wedding season, the collection makes diamond gifting effortless while blending timeless beauty with thoughtful simplicity.

Amaltas Jewells

Whether it’s the warmth of holiday gatherings or the grandeur of wedding festivities, finding the perfect gift is now easier than ever. With the Red Bow Collection, Amaltas offers an exquisite selection of versatile and meaningful lab diamond jewelry pieces. Designed to celebrate connections and create cherished memories, the collection includes delicate earrings, dainty pendants, and chic rings-ensuring there’s something for everyone on your list.

Launching on 23rd December, this new range brings the luxury of lab-grown diamonds within reach, with prices starting at just ₹5,000. “At Amaltas, we believe that every celebration deserves a sparkle,” said the brand’s spokesperson. “With the Red Bow Collection, we’re making it easy to gift diamonds that resonate with love, beauty, and sustainability this Christmas and wedding season.”

Sustainability Meets Elegance Amaltas remains committed to crafting jewelry that’s as ethical as it is exquisite, using only lab-grown diamonds. This ensures that every piece from the Red Bow Collection is not just a symbol of timeless beauty but also a testament to sustainable luxury.

To celebrate the launch, Amaltas rolled out a spectacular guerilla marketing campaign that turned heads and stole hearts across Delhi NCR. A giant ring box adorned with a vibrant red bow was mounted on a sleek red Audi convertible, creating a striking representation of the collection’s theme- gifts that are simple, classic and wrapped with love.

On 21st December the marketing activation was rolled out at iconic locales like Connaught Place, Khan Market, GK’s M Block Market, Select Citywalk, CyberHub, and Galleria Market. This bold display captivated passersby, many of whom captured and shared the moment on social media, amplifying the campaign’s reach and reinforcing Amaltas’ ethos of modern sophistication.

“The giant ring box on the red Audi was a direct nod to the collection’s theme, a perfect gift wrapped with love and excitement,” said Yasha Singh, spokesperson of Amaltas. “The campaign not only captured imaginations but also significantly boosted brand awareness, marking the launch as a citywide celebration.”

Discover the Red Bow Collection Now available at www.amaltasjewels.com, the Red Bow Collection offers a curated selection of elegant and timeless diamond jewelry, making every moment truly unforgettable. This season, let Amaltas add a touch of sparkle to your celebrations with gifts that shimmer with meaning and purpose.

About Amaltas
Amaltas is a luxury lab diamond jewelry brand dedicated to crafting exquisite designs that combine modern aesthetics with timeless craftsmanship. Known for its commitment to sustainability and quality, Amaltas continues to redefine the jewelry experience for today’s discerning consumer.

For more information, visit www.amaltasjewels.com or follow us on Instagram @amaltas.jewels

MaitriBodh Parivaar, a socio-spiritual organization, is set to host the Maitri Mahotsav – Global Maitri Festival, on 27 December 2024 in Karjat, Maharashtra. The event promises to bring together thousands of individuals from across the globe for a day dedicated to unity, spiritual empowerment, and the unveiling of transformative initiatives for the coming year.

Maitri Mahotsav – Global Maitri Festival

Initiated in 2019, MaitriBodh Parivaar celebrates 27th December each year, promoting spirituality, social responsibility, and global harmony. The event showcases MaitriBodh Parivaars impactful initiatives, including Maitri Adarsh Gram, which focuses on rural development; Earth Embrace, a call for deeper environmental stewardship; and Chinta-Mukt Bharat, a new initiative launched in 2024 to promote mental well-being in society.

This year, the event promises to unite rural India, corporates, communities, and devotees worldwide to drive meaningful change in rural development, environmental care, and spiritual empowerment along with an enthralling address by Maitreya Dadashreeji.

Maitreya Dadashreeji (Transformation Pioneer, Founder – MaitriBodh Parivaar) expressed, “Maitri Mahotsav is a celebration of Love, Life and Transformation. It is a day when we come together to deepen our connection with one another, engage in spiritual renewal, and reaffirm our collective responsibility to create a world of peace, harmony, and well-being for all. Through the Global Maitri Festival, we envision restoring Bharat to its former glory, a nation that is socially, economically, and spiritually empowered.”

The day-long festival will include spiritual discourses, meditative experiences, cultural celebration, and aligning with the mission and sharing a clear direction for the upliftment of humanity, while also highlighting MaitriBodh Parivaar’s remarkable achievements. With participants expected from India and abroad, attendees will have the chance to connect with thought leaders and spiritual seekers, all united by a shared vision for a sustainable and empowered future.

In the latest episode of Asian Paints Where the Heart Is Season 8, Taapsee Pannu opens the doors to her eclectic Mumbai home, offering a rare glimpse into her world. Known for her bold choices on-screen, Taapsee’s home mirrors her unique personality, blending warmth, creativity, and deeply personal touches that showcase her love for storytelling.

Asian Paints Where The Heart Is S8 – Taapsee Pannus home

Set in Mumbai, Taapsee’s home is more than just a space-it’s a reflection of her roots and her family. ‘‘Home is where I have my family, and I’m closest to my sister. So, wherever she is, that’s home for me,” says Taapsee. Her sister, a constant presence in her life, has travelled with her from Delhi to Hyderabad to Mumbai-a bond that was inspired by the closeness she always admired between her father and chacha.

Asian Paints Where The Heart Is Season 8 – Taapsee Pannu

Taapsee’s childhood in a two-bedroom apartment shared with eight family members taught her to find joy in chaos and connection, despite the absence of personal space. This experience deepened her appreciation for personal space, inspiring her to design a home that balances moments of solitude with spaces for togetherness. Spanning two distinct floors, her home beautifully reflects this vision.

From the moment you step in, Taapsee’s infectious humour sets the tone. Playful welcome mats greet you with messages like ‘You look nice today‘ and ‘Pretend this is a haveli‘, instantly creating a warm and cheerful vibe. Inside, every corner tells a story. “My house is actually like a world tour“, she says, pointing to the decor and artifacts collected from her global travels. A walk up the stairs take you from the elegance of Europe to the charm of India. On the European-themed lower floor, souvenirs from her travels are displayed on a unique feature she fondly calls her “Asian Paints ki wall“, Painted with bold stripes in various hues, it resembles a colour swatch book, inviting you to pick your favourite shade.

Upstairs, on the Indian-themed floor, Taapsee has brought her Punjabi roots to life in what she lovingly calls “Pannu Pind“. The design features textured walls, including exposed brick and carved wood paneling, complemented by earthy tones that create a rustic and warm atmosphere. Larger elements, such as intricately carved wooden frames for the floor-to-ceiling windows and mirror work, add richness to the space. Handcrafted details, like phulkari-upholstered furniture and a personalized Warli art wall narrating the story of her life, lend a deeply personal touch. A quote from the Guru Granth Sahib, celebrating the strength and dignity of women, adorns one wall. Reflecting on it, Taapsee shares, “How can you talk down upon someone who gives birth to kings”

Taapsee’s green thumb is on full display with 137 plants spread across her home, including her prized avocado plant. The use of wood throughout the home, particularly on the floors, creates a warm, earthy vibe, aligning with the natural aesthetic found in traditional Indian homes. Taapsee’s sister, Shagun Pannu, offers a valuable decor tip: start with the walls and ceilings. “How you do up your walls and your ceilings is something you need to figure out first. Then everything else falls into place,” she suggests.

The episode not only highlights Taapsee’s design sensibilities but also captures her philosophy of creating a deeply personal, inviting space. “If my house walls could speak, they’d say, ‘Come to me,’ because I feel I’ve made a house that is warm and personalized enough to make me want to come back home every day,” she shares.

For those inspired by Taapsee’s creative space, Asian Paints Where the Heart Is provides a style guide on BeautifulHomes.com, helping viewers recreate similar looks in their own homes.

Asian Paints Where The Heart Is S8 E3 | Featuring Taapsee Pannus Eclectic Style Home

YouTube Link –www.youtube.com/watchv=Bjvj47NG0Yk&t=68s

About ‘Asian Paints Where The Heart Is’ Season 08

Asian Paints is back with the new season of its beloved original home dcor digital series, Asian Paints Where the Heart Is. Season 8 brings a wealth of home dcor inspiration to audiences through captivating personal stories shared by admired celebrities. In this season, prominent personalities like Ananya Panday, Arshad Warsi and Maria Goretti, Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani, Taapsee Pannu, Manu Bhaker, and Joseph Radhik and Devika Narain have warmly opened their homes, offering viewers the opportunity to discover their design ideas and gather dcor inspiration that have shaped their living spaces. The episodes also delve into the significance of relationships and what ‘home’ means to them. To further enhance the viewer experience and provide them with a seamless way to recreate the celebrity-inspired look in their own homes, Season 8 introduces convenient style guides in each episode. This engaging segment directs viewers to BeautifulHomes.com, Asian Paints comprehensive decor services platform, offering a wide range of home and dcor items.

Viewers can watch the new season on Asian Paints’ digital platforms as well as on the leading OTT platform, Jio Cinema.

About Asian Paints Limited

Since its foundation in 1942, Asian Paints has come a long way to become India’s leading and Asia’s second largest paint company, with a consolidated turnover of Rs. 34,489 crores (Rs. 345 billion). It continues to uplift spaces, transcend the boundaries of colour & design, creating a positive impact in the lives of customers. The organization operates in 15 countries and has 27 paint manufacturing facilities in the world, servicing consumers in over 60 countries. Asian Paints has always been a leader in the paint industry, innovating and introducing new concepts in India like Colour Ideas, Beautiful Homes Painting Service, Colour Next and Asian Paints Beautiful Homes Stores. Asian Paints manufactures a wide range of paints & coatings for Decorative and Industrial use and also offer specialized painting and interior design services. The decorative business portfolio also includes SmartCare range for waterproofing, WoodTech products for wood finishes and Adhesives range for all surfaces. Asian Paints also offers a wide range of Home Dcor products and is the leading player in the Integrated Dcor space in India offering Modular Kitchens and wardrobes, Bath Fittings and Sanitaryware, Decorative Lightings, uPVC windows and doors, Wall coverings, Furnitures, Furnishings, Rugs, etc.

Nando’s, the globally loved, flame-grilled, PERi-PERi chicken restaurant is coming to Mumbai!

Nando’s, the globally loved, flame-grilled, PERi-PERi chicken restaurant is coming to Mumbai

A South African brand known for its signature PERi-PERi flavours, is bringing its bold taste to the city. With plans for an ambitious expansion in Mumbai, Nando’s is set to open 5 Casas (the name affectionately given to Nando’s restaurants which means “home” in Portuguese) across the city, including at Terminal 2, Mumbai airport and at multiple major shopping malls. This, all off the back of a thriving business in Delhi and a hugely welcome reception to Nando’s in the newly opened location in Hyderabad.

Nando’s, the globally loved, flame-grilled, PERi-PERi chicken restaurant is coming to Mumbai

“It’s a moment of great pride for us to launch Nando’s into Mumbai, a city that thrives on bold flavours and who has been asking for it for some time now,” said Sameer Bhasin, CEO of Nando’s India. “PERi-PERi – made with African Bird’s Eye Chilli – is the heart and soul of Nando’s unique flavour, and the perfect match for spice-lovers in Mumbai. This is only the start of an exciting journey in this vibrant city, with many more locations to come!”

All Nando’s bastings, marinades and sauces are made with fresh, real ingredients and have no artificial flavours or colourants. The chicken is flame-grilled because it just tastes better, and the range of PERi-PERi flavours allow guests to customize their meal to the heat level of their choosing.

“We’re confident that Mumbai will love Nando’s signature flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken, burgers, veggie dishes, and more,” said Karan Kapur, Executive Director for K Hospitality Corp, Nando’s joint-venture partner in India. “But in true Nando’s style, there is a lot more to it than just the chicken. Our vibrant Afro-Portuguese heritage comes alive in every aspect of the guest experience. From Southern African inspired restaurant design, dcor and art, to curated Afro-Luso music, and everything in between.”

Wondering what makes Nando’s, Nando’s

PERi-PERi is the heart and soul of Nando’s. Its story is their story!

Home-grown in the sun, soil and fire of Southern Africa. Mixed with lemon, fresh garlic and spices. It’s this fiery fusion that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Where friends, fire and flavour meet – visit nandosindia.com to find your nearest hotspot.

For more interesting Nando’s stories – visit nandos.com.

CurveAi, a pioneering generative AI startup based in Gurugram, has announced the launch of DealSpy, Indias first AI shopping agent suite designed to enhance the online shopping experience. This innovative AI agent framework is set to transform how consumers navigate the digital marketplace by scouting the best deals, prices, and offers across multiple online platforms through a suite of WhatsApp bot, Chrome extension, and web store.

In photo (L) Amiit Deep Kumarr and (R) Kschitiz Mathur

DealSpy empowers users to compare prices across different e-commerce websites, view deal histories, and receive price predictions for their selected products, all in one convenient interface. “DealSpy is your personal AI-enabled shopping assistant that spots the smartest deals for you in real time, powered by AI agents-saving you money, time, and the drudgery of visiting multiple marketplaces,” stated Amiit Deep Kumarr, Founder and CEO of CurveAi. He further added, “As the e-commerce market in India continues to grow at over 21% CAGR and is expected to reach USD 300 billion, the demand for AI agents that personalize shopping experiences has never been greater.”

Key Features of DealSpy:

• Comprehensive Deal Scouting: Automatically finds the best prices and offers across various online marketplaces.

• Price Comparison and History: Users can easily compare current prices and track price changes over time.

• Multiple Platforms: Enjoy seamless services either at the DealSpy Store, via WhatsApp Bot, or through the DealSpy Chrome extension.

• Price Prediction: Provides insights on when prices are likely to drop or rise, helping users make informed purchasing decisions.

DealSpy supports shopping across categories such as phones, laptops, and watches. Future releases will include a mobile application with enhanced features for an improved shopping experience across additional categories. DealSpy will also raise more capital in the coming months to expand its engineering team and AI capabilities.

Kschitiz Mathur, Co-founder and CDO of CurveAi, emphasized the platforms potential for vendors as well, “DealSpy not only benefits consumers but also serves as a valuable tool for vendors by providing AI insights that can enhance product placement strategies.” He added that CurveAi is actively developing multiple AI agents that will work together to further personalize the shopping experience.

Since its inception in August 2024, CurveAi has focused on building a robust network of AI agents aimed at solving complex business challenges and quickly launched DealSpy. The company secured pre-seed funding from a leading Swiss family office fund led by Mr. Israr Ali Khan, which will continue backing them in all future fundraising activities. Mr. Israr expressed confidence in CurveAis potential, “We believe in the talent of the CurveAi founding team and are excited to support their journey in all future fundraising plans towards becoming a leading AI company on the global stage with their speed of execution as the catalyst of their operations.”

In photo (L) Amiit Deep Kumarr and (R) Kschitiz Mathur.

For more information about DealSpy or to schedule a demonstration, please visit www.dealspy.ai. .

Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd., a leader in solar EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) solutions, is expanding its footprint beyond Punjab with a major new venture: a 29 MWp solar project in Bikaner, Rajasthan. This strategic expansion marks a significant milestone for the company, which has already established itself as a dominant force in Punjabs renewable energy sector.

Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd. Expands into Rajasthan with Landmark 29 MWp Solar Project

The Bikaner project represents a crucial step in Solidus’s vision to transform India’s industrial landscape by providing clean, reliable energy solutions. Located in one of India’s top regions for solar energy potential, the 29 MWp plant will power one of Rajasthan’s largest industries, underscoring Solidus’s growing influence in Rajasthan’s renewable energy market.

Project Impact and Key Statistics:

• Capacity: The 29 MWp solar power plant will generate approximately 47 million kWh of clean energy annually.

• Carbon Reduction: The plant will help eliminate over 42,300 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually, playing a crucial role in reducing the carbon footprint of industrial operations.

• Energy Independence: The project will supply 40% of the energy requirements for the manufacturing facility, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources and driving substantial cost savings.

• Local Economic Growth: The construction phase will create local jobs, boosting Bikaner’s economy and fostering skill development in the renewable energy sector.

Turnkey Project: Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd. will deliver this as a complete EPC (Design, Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) project, managing all aspects of the project from design to execution. The company will leverage its expertise in providing end-to-end solutions for seamless integration of solar energy into industrial operations.

Solidus Techno Power’s Vision for Sustainable Growth
Having established itself as a leader in solar solutions in Punjab, Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd. is now taking significant strides to expand its presence across India. This 29 MWp project in Bikaner will be managed end-to-end by Solidus, leveraging its expertise in delivering state-of-the-art solar technology and ensuring seamless integration into industrial operations. The company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability is set to empower industries across India, enabling them to transition to greener, more efficient energy sources.

“We are thrilled to expand our presence into Rajasthan with this transformative 29 MWp solar project in Bikaner. This is a significant leap for Solidus as we continue to lead in Punjab and now bring our expertise to one of India’s most promising solar markets. Our goal is to help industries achieve energy independence while reducing their carbon footprint, and this project is a testament to that commitment,” said Harvinder Singh, Director of Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd.

A Key Player in India’s Renewable Energy Revolution
Solidus Techno Power’s expansion into Rajasthan marks an important chapter in its mission to support India’s renewable energy goals. As the country aims for 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, projects like the one in Bikaner showcase the immense potential of solar power to reshape the industrial energy landscape.

About Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd.
Headquartered in Patiala, Punjab, Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd. is a leading provider of end-to-end solar EPC solutions. From industrial applications to residential energy solutions, Solidus is committed to driving India’s renewable energy revolution through cutting-edge technology, innovation, and a customer-first approach.

In a distinguished ceremony celebrating the remarkable accomplishments of women across various fields, Ms. Poonam Sharma, Chairperson of Accurate Group of Institutions received the esteemed Devi Award for Excellence in Education. The accolade was presented by the Honourable Governor of Kerala, Shri Arif Mohammed Khan at the esteemed event “The Sunday Standard” held in New Delhi.

Ms. Poonam Sharma receiving the esteemed Devi Award for Excellence in Education by the Honourable Governor of Kerala, Shri Arif Mohammed Khan and Prabhu Chawla

The Devi Awards, a benchmark of women’s empowerment and success, recognize women who have significantly contributed to society through their unwavering commitment, innovation, and leadership. Ms. Poonam Sharma’s dedication to transforming the education landscape, and her relentless efforts to empower young minds have set a gold standard in the field of education.

Picture with all the awardees

Under her visionary leadership, Accurate Group of Institutions has emerged as a beacon of academic excellence, offering cutting-edge programs that blend traditional learning with modern, technology-driven methodologies. The institution is renowned for producing industry-ready professionals who excel globally, evident to Ms. Sharma’s emphasis on holistic education and skill development.

Ms. Poonam Sharma’s innovative leadership has been pivotal in shaping the institution’s strategic direction, ensuring that Accurate Group of Institutions remains at the forefront of educational transformation. Her emphasis on experiential learning, supported by strategic partnerships with global companies, has empowered students to gain hands-on experience while developing the critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for success in today’s fast-paced world.

While receiving the award, Ms. Poonam Sharma, Chairperson of Accurate Group of Institutions, expressed her gratitude, stating, “This honour is not just a personal achievement but a reflection of the collective efforts of my team at Accurate. It reaffirms our commitment to fostering a culture of academic excellence, innovation, and holistic development. At Accurate, we believe in empowering our students with not just knowledge but also the values and skills necessary to lead and inspire change. The Devi Award is a reflection of our vision of creating a better society through education and leadership. It inspires us to continue our pursuit of excellence and contribute meaningfully to the community by nurturing future leaders capable of creating a positive global impact.“

Guided by Ms. Poonam Sharma’s vision, Accurate Group of Institutions has continuously embraced progressive educational methodologies, fostering experiential learning and establishing key partnerships with global companies. This has enabled students to gain practical experience and develop essential critical thinking and problem-solving skills to thrive in a fast-paced, competitive world.

The event was attended by luminaries from various sectors, celebrating the achievements of women trailblazers who embody courage, perseverance, and innovation. Ms. Sharma’s recognition at this prestigious platform underscores her profound impact on education and her commitment to creating a brighter future for generations to come.

About Accurate Institute of Management and Technology

The lush green campus of Accurate Institute of Management and Technology (AIMT) is situated at Greater Noida. The institute is offering PGDM Course with dual specialization duly approved by AICTE, Ministry of HRD, and Government of India. Its PGDM course has been developed with innovative teaching methodology including regular industry interactions and laptop to groom them as techno business managers. The institute has been reckoned among the premier business schools of the country by various stakeholders. The minimum qualification required to apply for 2-year full time diploma is graduation with 50% marks.

Website: www.accurate.in.

Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, announced its win at the 18th edition of the Aviation Business Middle East Awards 2024, earning the prestigious Cabin Crew of the Year title. This recognition highlights Saudias unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service and elevating the guest experience.

The Cabin Crew of the Year award celebrates the professionalism, dedication, and personalized care provided by Saudias cabin crew, whose service consistently redefines global hospitality standards. The team, consisting of exceptional Saudi talent alongside a diverse international community, embodies authentic Saudi hospitality, reflecting the Kingdoms warmth, generosity, and respect. Saudias crew ensures guests enjoy a seamless and enriched travel experience.

#Saudia wins Cabin Crew of the Year at the 18th Aviation Business Middle East Awards 2024, highlighting its dedication to exceptional service and global hospitality standards

Rossen Dimitrov, Chief Guest Experience Officer at Saudia, expressed his pride in the recognition, stating: “This recognition for our cabin crew is a testament to the passion, professionalism, and commitment of our team. At Saudia, enhancing the guest experience is our mission, and this award by one of the regions most respected aviation publications highlights our leadership in delivering world-class service.”

“Saudias cabin crew exemplify the essence of Saudi hospitality, combining warmth, generosity. We are honored to represent the Kingdom on the global stage and will continue striving to elevate the travel experience for our guests.”

Saudia cabin crew has consistently demonstrated excellence among global industry peers. Most recently the airline was honored with the Editorial Award for Best Airline Cabin Crew at the Business Traveler U.S. Awards 2024. Saudia also showcased its operational excellence by ranking first globally for on-time performance (OTP), as reported by Cirium.

Saudia has recently announced the largest investment in its history to enhance and elevate the guest experience. This ambitious initiative includes the adoption of advanced technologies through Saudias AI-powered Travel Companion and a comprehensive retrofit of its existing and new fleet. Guests will benefit from high-speed in-flight internet and upgraded seat-integrated screens. Additionally, Saudia is undertaking its most extensive fleet development and modernization program, with 130 new aircraft set to join its fleet in the coming years, reaffirming its commitment to connecting the world to the Kingdom.

The Aviation Business Middle East Awards is an annual event that celebrates excellence in the Middle Easts aviation industry. The awards recognize outstanding contributions from airlines, airports, and service providers across categories such as innovation, sustainability, customer service, and operational efficiency. The event serves as a premier platform for industry leaders to network, exchange insights, and discuss the future of aviation in the region.

About Saudia Group

Saudia Group is one of the largest aviation conglomerates in the MENA region. The Group drives industry development with its 13 subsidiaries, and offers world-class air transport, cargo services, ground services, logistics, maintenance, catering, private aviation, real estate, training, and medical services.

The mission of Saudia Group is to inspire people to go beyond borders with a purpose that is rooted in unlocking human potential and connecting the world in ways never thought possible. The group is committed to reshaping the aviation ecosystem in the MENA region and beyond, by embracing innovation and a customer-centric approach.

For more information on Saudia, please visit www.saudia.com.

In an aim to enhance educational outcomes through nutritional support, The Akshaya Patra Foundation, recognized as the worlds largest NGO-run school meal program and a distinguished partner of the PM POSHAN initiative, celebrated the inauguration of its 76^th kitchen in Cheemasandra Village, Avalahalli Panchayat, Bidarahalli, Bangalore, supported by Canara Bank as the anchor patron donor, represents a significant extension of Akshaya Patra’s efforts to improve educational results by providing nutritional support to students. This new facility marks the organizations sixth location in Bengaluru.

Shri Gunakara Rama Dasa, Shri Shridhar Venkat, Shri Satyanarayana Raju K, Smt. Manjula Aravind Limbavali, Shri Chanchalpathi Dasa and Smt. Lathakumari IAS

The event was inaugurated by chief guests, Smt. Manjula Aravind Limbavali, Member of Legislative Assembly, Mahadevapura Assembly Constituency, Bengaluru, and Shri Aravind Limbavali, Former Minister, Government of Karnataka. Smt. Lathakumari IAS, CEO of Bengaluru Urban District Zilla Panchayat, graced the occasion. On-behalf of the foundation Shri Chanchalpathi Dasa, Co-Founder & Vice-Chairman, and Shri Gunakara Rama Dasa, Regional President – Bengaluru Cluster, of The Akshaya Patra Foundation were present. The event saw Shri Satyanarayana Raju K, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Canara Bank, as the anchor patron donor.

Smt. Manjula Aravind Limbavali, Member of Legislative Assembly, Mahadevapura Assembly Constituency, Bengaluru, said, “I am delighted to be part of the inauguration of Akshaya Patra’s 76th kitchen, the newly launched kitchen is a testament to their dedication to serving nutritious meals to children and communities. This initiative reflects the spirit of service and development, bringing hope and nourishment to many and strengthening the future of Karnataka.”

Shri Chanchalpathi Dasa, Co-Founder & Vice-Chairman, The Akshaya Patra Foundation,said, “We are immensely grateful for the support of the Government of Karnataka and Canara Bank, whose unwavering commitment has been instrumental in the inauguration of our 76^th kitchen in Cheemasandra, Bengaluru. This new facility is not just a kitchen; its promising enhanced educational outcomes through nutritional support to over 7,500 students. The strategic location and advanced capabilities of this kitchen enable us to extend our reach and efficacy, reflecting our dedication to nurturing young minds and empowering them through education.”

He also added, “Our heartfelt thanks to Canara Bank for their pivotal role as our anchor patron donor, and to the Government of Karnataka and The Government of India for their continuous partnership. Together, we are forging a future where no childs educational opportunities are limited by their nutritional status.”

The kitchen, sprawling over 5,000 square feet, is strategically located to cater to over 7,500 students across 60 government and government-aided schools in the Bidarahalli and Cheemasandra areas. It aims to provide hot, nutritious mid-day meals within a strict 4-hour cook-to-consumption timeline, emphasizing the foundations dedication to quality and efficiency. This effort not only aims to nourish young minds but also boosts local employment and procurement, & the facility is semi-solar powered, with future plans to incorporate more electric vehicles into its delivery fleet, reflecting its commitment to sustainable practices.

Shri Satyanarayana Raju K, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Canara Bank said, “Our bank takes immense pride in supporting cultural and spiritual celebrations across the country, reflecting our commitment to community engagement. As we grow and prosper, we remain dedicated to contributing to the well-being of our nation, especially in Karnataka. It is a privilege to be part of the inauguration of Akshaya Patra’s 76th kitchen, a remarkable initiative that serves and uplifts the community.”

Shri Shridhar Venkat, CEO, The Akshaya Patra Foundation said, “The transformative power of a daily meal cannot be overstated-it shapes futures, builds dreams, and nurtures the young beneficiaries. The Akshaya Patra Foundation’s success is a testament to the strength of public-private partnerships, with unwavering support from the Government of India, state governments, and generous donors. As we march towards the milestone of our 100th kitchen, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey. Together, we are creating a legacy of nourishment, hope, and empowerment.”

Akshaya Patras mid-day meal offerings in Bengaluru are customized to appeal to the local palate, ensuring that they are not only nutritious but also palatable. The menu features a variety of dishes including vegetable pulav, bisibele bath, and moong dal payasam, catering to diverse tastes while promoting healthy eating habits among students. This initiative is further enhanced by The Akshaya Patra Foundations role as an implementing partner of the visionary Ksheera Bhagya program by the Chief Minister of Karnataka, aimed at providing milk to schoolchildren, ensuring that their educational pursuits are not hindered by nutritional deficits.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the guests toured the facility and served meals to children, visibly impressed by the foundation’s dedication to quality and community impact. The Akshaya Patra Foundation currently serves over 1.8 lakh children across 1200+ schools in Bangalore and 4.4 lakh children across 3400+ schools in Karnataka.

This project is more than just a facility; it reflects The Akshaya Patra Foundation’s enduring dedication to nurturing young minds and fostering community participation. It also underscores the organization’s drive towards promoting healthy eating habits and advancing sustainable practices.

With the continuous support of the Government of Karnataka and the commitment of all stakeholders, The Akshaya Patra Foundation is set to continue its mission of ensuring that ‘No child is deprived of education because of hunger.’

For more details, please log on:www.akshayapatra.org.

Sparkle Gift Cards has added new variant in its offering with the introduction of the Sparkle Gift Collaborative Card, a distinctive option crafted specifically for partner NGOs to collaborate and raise funds exclusively for their causes.

Sparkle Gift Collaborative Cards

This innovative offering allows donors to directly support a specific cause, with the entire purchase amount going to the chosen NGO. The first three NGOs to join this initiative are CanSupport, CRY (Child Rights and You), and Railway Children India, each addressing critical issues such as palliative care, child rights, and the protection of vulnerable children respectively. These collaborative cards stand out with three distinctive features: a maroon colour, the NGOs logo displayed on the card, and a fixed value of INR 3000/- unlike the regular card.

Sarika Chavan, Co-founder – Sparkle Gift Cards says, “It’s been one year since Sparkle Gift Cards was launched, and we are very pleased with the response and feedback. The idea of Sparkle Gift Collaborative Card was born out of the feedback we received to have exclusive cards. This innovative initiative empowers donors to directly support a specific cause, with the full purchase amount benefiting the selected NGO.”

The Sparkle Gift Collaborative Card, has made the process of giving simple and convenient. Buyers can order the cards online (atsparklegiftcards.com/buy-now) and have them delivered to an address within 72 hours, ensuring a seamless experience. Whether it’s supporting palliative care through CanSupport, advocating for child rights with CRY, or protecting vulnerable children with Railway Children India, these cards turn gifting into a profound act of kindness.

About Sparkle Gift Cards

Sparkle Gift Cards are a unique gifting solution. They allow you to #GiftAPurpose. You get the chance to give a meaningful gift, and the receiver gets to assign the amount to a cause that resonates with them. Sparkle Gift Cards are inspired by the gifting dilemma we all face. The NGOs chosen are inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which outlines a pathway towards transforming our world into a safer, happier, more equitable place for all. Our chosen NGO partners work in a myriad of allied fields from education, to healthcare to gender parity, and are vetted for transparency, accountability and efficacy.

Visitsparklegiftcards.com for more information.