Parimatch is excited to announce the expansion of its new markets as the highly anticipated SA20 and ILT20 seasons kick off. This year, users can place bets on cricket sensation Nicholas Pooran, who plays for the MI Emirates; mystery bowler Sunil Narine, who represents the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders; and the standout Sunrisers Eastern Cape team in the SA20 Season 3.

Parimatch Introduces Exclusive Markets for Nicholas Pooran, Sunil Narine, and Sunrisers Eastern Cape Ahead of SA20 and ILT20

The SA20 league will run from January 9 to February 8, 2025, across various venues in South Africa. This third season will feature 6 teams competing in 34 matches over 31 days.

The International League T20 (ILT20) 2025 is set to take place in the United Arab Emirates from January 11 to February 9, 2025. The tournament will feature 6 teams competing in a total of 34 matches over 31 days, showcasing top international and local talent in a format that includes a group stage and playoffs. Matches will be held across premier venues in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

Parimatch invites cricket fans to explore new markets and support their favorite players and teams for a chance to win big during the SA20 and ILT20 seasons.

Nicholas Pooran Specials
Nicholas Pooran, a Parimatch brand ambassador, brings his exceptional talent to the spotlight. The Nicholas Pooran tournament specials include six distinct markets in the ILT20:

• Tournament Total Ducks

• Tournament Fifties

• Tournament Centuries

• Tournament Total Fours

• Tournament Total Sixes

• Tournament Total Runs

These markets let fans delve into Pooran’s batting performance, offering the chance to predict milestones such as half-centuries, centuries, his total boundaries (fours and sixes), overall runs, and even the rare chance of ducks, adding a new layer of excitement to every match he plays.

Sunil Narine Specials
Sunil Narine, another Parimatch ambassador celebrated for his mysterious bowling and impactful batting, is also featured in the new lineup of markets. Fans can bet on various aspects of his ILT20 performance, including:

• Tournament Total Wickets

• Tournament Fifties

• Tournament Centuries

• Tournament Total Fours

• Tournament Total Sixes

• Tournament Total Runs

• Tournament Total Caught

• Tournament Total Caught and Bowled

• Tournament Total Bowled

• Tournament Total LBW

• Tournament Total Hits Wicket

• Tournament Bowling Average

• Tournament Bowling Strike Rate

These markets give fans a comprehensive way to follow Narine’s game, from his quick scoring and batting milestones to his wicket-taking prowess, bowling averages, and game-changing performances.

Sunrisers Eastern Cape Specials
The Sunrisers Eastern Cape, champions of the inaugural SA20 in 2023 and 2024, have quickly established themselves as one of the most dominant teams in South Africa’s T20 cricket landscape. As the team’s Title Sponsor, Parimatch offers fans a variety of exciting options for SA20 Season 3, including:

• Tournament Total Wickets

• Tournament Fifties

• Tournament Centuries

• Tournament Total Fours

• Tournament Total Sixes

• Tournament Total Runs

All new markets will remain active throughout the tournaments, offering an immersive experience that keeps fans closely connected to the on-field performances of Nicholas Pooran, Sunil Narine, and the Sunrisers Eastern Cape.

For the latest updates and to explore other exclusive markets, please visit Parimatch’s official website.

• Indian Cricketer Shreyanka Patil flagged off the run at 7.00 AM

• For its 7th Edition Manipal Marathon embraces the theme “Innovation in Motion” with the tagline “Embracing Technology for Health and Fitness”

The highly anticipated 7^th edition of Manipal Marathon was kicked off by Indian cricketer Shreyanka Patil today at 6.30 AM today at MAHE Bengaluru campus. The great Manipal Marathon 2025, which is scheduled for February 9, 2025, in Manipal Udupi district, is preceded by this event.

7th Edition of Manipal Marathon Focuses on Technology in Fitness unveils promo run to encourage marathon enthusiasts

Manipal Marathon has solidified its position as the biggest student organized marathon in India with over 20,000 participants from across the Nation and Globe. Manipal Marathon embraces the theme “Innovation in Motion” with the tagline “Embracing Technology for Health and Fitness”. This theme reflects the events commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology in promoting health and fitness.

The marathon routes certified internationally by the IAAF AIMS, will take participants through the breathtaking landscapes of Manipal and along the stunning Udupi coastline. It will not only offer an exhilarating race experience but will also host a grand carnival celebration post-run. Beyond the festivities, the event provides substantial prize money, drawing elite athletes and passionate runners alike.

“The Manipal Marathon is a testament to the power of health, fitness, and community spirit,” said Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu P, Deputy Registrar – MAHE Bengaluru Campus. The Manipal Marathon has developed into a legendary event in India’s marathon circuit. This marathon demonstrates how technology can improve our health and make running more enjoyable for everyone. The marathon is a way to inspire people towards good health and fitness that must be part of everyone’s life.

Indian cricket player Ms. Shreyanka Patil expressed her excitement at the unveiling, “I am quite thrilled to be part of such a phenomenal and inspiring Manipal Marathon 2025 that provides a platform for people from all walks of life to participate in this run with great spirits. Every athlete, need to run to stay healthy and this event skilfully combines wellness and technology.”

The highly anticipated 7th edition of Manipal Marathon was kicked off by Indian cricketer Shreyanka Patil on 12th January at MAHE Bengaluru campus

“The theme “Innovation in Motion” perfectly aligns with the evolving landscape of fitness,” said Mr. Ravindra Rai M. Managing Director & CEO of BOBCARD Limited, underscoring the significance of innovation in sports. Training, performance monitoring and injury prevention are all being greatly enhanced by technology. This marathon is a fantastic way to encourage the next generation to continue being active. My heartiest congratulations to MAHE for their commitment towards hosting this marathon year on year consistently which brings together thousands of people for a common cause.

Shika Shetty, Manager of the Visually Challenged Indian Cricket Team; Kiran Kumar, Senior Vice President of Marketing at UNext Learning Private Limited; Dr. Vinod C. Nayak, Secretary of the Sports Council at MAHE, Manipal; Ms. Anjana Chandran, Associate Director at Manipal Health Enterprises Pvt. Ltd.; along with other officials from the MAHE Bengaluru campus, were present at the event. More than fifty visually challenged participants took part in the Promo Run in a special category alongside 1,500 students and other marathon enthusiasts.

Registration for the event closes soon. The deadline for registration is January 31, 2025. Runners still have the chance to participate in this amazing race, with the last event set for February 9, 2025, in Manipal.

For registration & other information visit manipalmarathon.in.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education

Demet Pictures, a renowned name in the entertainment industry, proudly announces Star Face of India 2025, an extraordinary platform designed to uncover and celebrate the artistic brilliance of individuals across India. This one-of-a-kind event, to be held at the iconic Prabhath KalaSambrama in Bangalore, promises to bring together talent from diverse backgrounds in the fields of acting, dancing, modelling, and singing.

Upcoming poster of Star Face of India 2025

A Career-Defining Opportunity
The winner of Star Face of India 2025 will be given the opportunity to work with Demet Pictures on future projects, including movies, web series, commercials, and music videos. This unparalleled chance ensures that the most promising talent is directly connected to the entertainment industrys professional realm.

A Vision Beyond Competition

Unlike conventional talent shows, Star Face of India 2025 stands out for its mission-driven approach, focusing on providing equal opportunities to aspiring artists without any financial barriers. Participation in this transformative initiative is completely free, embodying the ethos of inclusivity, fairness, and accessibility.

“Talent should never be constrained by circumstances or the lack of resources,” said Amit Sharma, Producer of the show and Founder of Demet Pictures. “With Star Face of India 2025, we aim to offer a second chance to individuals who’ve faced challenges in pursuing their artistic dreams. This is more than a show-it’s a movement to empower talent and create real opportunities in the entertainment industry.“

A Stage for Limitless Talent

The event will feature electrifying performances across four categories:

• Acting: An arena for showcasing emotional depth, dialogue delivery, and character portrayal.

• Dancing: A celebration of diverse dance forms, from classical to contemporary.

• Modelling: A glamorous runway to highlight confidence and charisma.

• Singing: A showcase of mesmerizing vocals and melodic expression.

The event will also host a live audience and an esteemed panel of judges, offering participants invaluable exposure and recognition.

Renowned entertainer Harsh Kumar, host of the event, shared his enthusiasm “This is not just an event; it’s a celebration of dreams and determination. It’s an honor to be part of a platform where talent truly takes center stage, without barriers or biases.”

Why Participate in Star Face of India 2025

• Gateway to Opportunities: Standout performers may collaborate with Demet Pictures on upcoming projects, including movies, web series, commercials, and music videos.

• Free Participation: No fees, no hidden costs-just pure talent and opportunity.

• Recognition and Networking: Perform in front of industry experts, connect with like-minded artists, and gain visibility.

• Exciting Prizes: Awards, accolades, and opportunities await standout performers.

About Demet Pictures
As a creative powerhouse, Demet Pictures has a rich legacy of producing acclaimed projects in cinema, television, and digital media. With Star Face of India 2025, the company reinforces its commitment to nurturing emerging talent and breaking down barriers in the entertainment industry.

Event Details

• Venue: Prabhath KalaSambrama, Bangalore

• Date: 17th January, 2025

• Time: 3PM onwards

• Registration: Free for all participants.

For more details you can visit Demet Pictures – Start Your Acting Career Today! And www.instagram.com

In a significant move towards promoting sustainability, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. extended its flagship initiative, ‘Bottles for Change,’ to Kuvempu University in Shimoga, Karnataka. The launch was marked by the signing of a Letter of Association (LOA) with the university, followed by awareness session on plastic waste management and installation of recycled plastic benches, bins at the campus.

Bisleri International launches ‘Bottles for Change’ program in Kuvempu University, Shimoga, Karnataka

This event was followed by a technical panel discussion on the theme, “Waste to Wealth” to understand the role of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and circularity in achieving the desired outcome. The discussion was chaired by Prof J. Narayana, Chairman, Dept of Environment Science. Government, Academicians and Industry leaders including Shri Mahesh K Patil, Chairman, Goa State Pollution Control Board, Dr Hina Kousar, Professor, Dept of Environment Science and Shri K. Ganesh, Director, Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. participated as the guest speakers in the panel. The discussion was moderated by Shri Sujeet Kumar Dongre, Chairman, Union Territory Level Expert Appraisal Committee for Dadar & Nagar Haveli, and Daman & Diu.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. K. Ganesh, Director, Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International Pvt Ltd, said, “Our partnership with Kuvempu University reflects the potential of young minds in driving sustainable change. At Bisleri, we are committed to being a plastic-neutral and water-positive company. Through this initiative, we aim to create a mass movement towards responsible plastic waste disposal and management.”

Adding to this Dr Yogendra K, Professor, Department of Environmental Science, Kuvempu University said, “Our collaboration with Bisleri is directed towards instilling sustainable values in our youth. These young minds are the future leaders who will shape our world for the generations to come. We are thankful to Bisleri for making us a part of their Greener Promise.”

Bisleri International as part of the ‘Bisleri Greener Promise’ campaign, aims to install 1,000 benches made from recycled plastic at prominent locations across India. The organization remains steadfast in its commitment to embedding sustainability in all its operations, driving growth through responsible business practices.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.

With a legacy of over 54 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the countrys largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and neighboring countries. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri Mineral Water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavors, such as Pop, Rev, Limonata and Spyci Jeera. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform – Bisleri @Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation and sustainability. For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

Avery Dennison South Asia a global leader in materials science and packaging solutions, has announced the launch of its Premium Labels range. This new offering includes a portfolio of textured substrates for premium labeling, specifically designed to elevate consumer experiences through unique surface textures and patterns.

Avery Dennison – Premium Label Launch

In a marketplace where first impressions matter more than ever, premium packaging has become an indispensable element of brand identity. For luxury brands, labels are more than functional-they are statements of craftsmanship and quality. The Premium Labels range is tailored for key industries including food & beverages, and luxury beauty segments. These labels aim to redefine packaging by enhancing shelf appeal, driving brand differentiation, and catering to the aspirational demands of consumers, particularly Gen Z and millennials. The launch is in collaboration with three print converters – Letra Graphix, Pragati Pack India and Janus Inernational.

Unique features of Premium Labels:

• Enhanced shelf appeal: Designed to capture consumer attention through and elegant packaging.

• Sustainability focus: Labels are developed with a commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting circularity.

• Aspirational packaging: Meets the demands of the growing middle-class consumer base seeking special and personalized experiences.

Speaking on the launch, Saurabh Aggarwal VP & GM South Asia said, “Innovation lies at the core of Avery Dennison’s philosophy. As part of our motto, ‘Making Possible‘ we believe in the powerful connection between intellect and imagination, science and technology, and the physical and digital. The launch of our Premium Labels range is a step forward in addressing this philosophy and represents our dedication to redefining what’s possible in the world of labeling. By combining innovative design with a commitment to sustainability, we empower brands to stand out on shelves and connect with consumers in meaningful ways.”

Avery Dennison’s India team commitment to sustainability and innovation drives every initiative it undertakes. By leveraging advanced technologies and sustainable practices, the company aims to create solutions that not only meet the needs of its customers but also contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive future. From reducing environmental impact to fostering circular economies, Avery Dennison continues to lead the way in reshaping industries for the better.

About Avery Dennison

Avery Dennison is a global materials science and digital identification solutions company. It provides innovative solutions for branding, packaging, and supply chain optimization, focusing on sustainability, circularity, and transparency. With a presence in over 50 countries and a commitment to reducing waste and advancing technology, Avery Dennison connects brands and consumers while addressing the challenges of future generations.

• Indian Car of the Year 2025 – Mahindra Thar Roxx

• Indian Motorcycle of the Year 2025 – Aprilia RS 457

The Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY) and Indian Motorcycle of the Year (IMOTY) awards, proudly presented by JK Tyre ever since its inception, was held at the beautifully curated Levitas Lounge in New Delhi. Recognized as the most prestigious accolade in the Indian automotive industry, these awards celebrate a remarkable legacy of innovation and excellence. The event was graced by prominent industry leaders, renowned journalists, and members of the automotive fraternity. This years occasion was particularly significant as it marked the 20th anniversary of ICOTY.

Dr. Raghupati Singhania, CMD, JK Tyre & Industries and jury members presented Indian Car of the Year [ICOTY] 2025 award to Mahindra & Mahindra team

Dr. Raghupati Singhania, Chairman & Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries, along with ICOTY Chairman Dhruv Behl, IMOTY Chairman Kartik Ware, and esteemed jury members, presented the awards to the winners.

The title of 20th Indian Car of the Year 2025 was bestowed upon the Mahindra Thar Roxx. The vehicle’s innovative features, well-thought-out design and segment-best technology thoroughly impressed the jury. The Aprilia RS 457 was unanimously adjudged the 18th Indian Motorcycle of the Year 2025, proving its breathtaking performance and superior all-round ability were clear deciding factors in its victory.

On the momentous occasion, Dr. Raghupati Singhania, Chairman & Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries Limited, said, “The ICOTY and IMOTY Awards stand as a testament to the remarkable achievements in Indias dynamic automotive landscape. These esteemed accolades celebrate excellence and innovation, reflecting the industrys unwavering commitment to progress. Over the years, the Indian automotive sector has demonstrated remarkable strides, solidifying its position as a global leader. At JK Tyre, we are proud to contribute to this legacy and recognize the dedication and ingenuity that drive this industry forward.“

To cater to the growing popularity, acceptance, and availability of a wide range of premium cars from various manufacturers in the Indian market, the ICOTY jury introduced the ‘Premium Car Award‘ in 2019. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class was recognized as the worthy winner of the title in 2025. Considering the evolving automotive landscape and Government’s increased focused towards electric vehicles, the Green Car Award was introduced in 2021, aimed at acknowledging manufacturers contributions to the future of mobility. The MG Windsor proudly received the Green Car Award for 2025.

The cars and motorcycles nominated for this year’s edition of the ICOTY and IMOTY awards were put through a thorough evaluation process. 28 jury members from across leading automobile publications with over 400 years of working experience evaluated the contenders across four categories. The judging process entailed an in-depth evaluation of each vehicles attributes, considering factors such as price, fuel efficiency, design, comfort, safety, performance, practicality, technological innovation, value for money, and adaptability to Indian driving conditions to determine the winners.

Mr. Dhruv Behl, Chairman, ICOTY, said, “The 20th edition of ICOTY is certainly a memorable one. ICOTY, the Green Car Award by ICOTY and the Premium Car Award by ICOTY are, far and away, the most coveted awards in the Indian automotive industry. Over the past two decades, ICOTY has set itself apart as being the most credible and respected awards in the industry. The 21-member ICOTY jury has a cumulative experience of 408 years, and it’s an absolute honour for me to be Chairman of such an illustrious jury. I’d like to congratulate all the winners for bringing cutting edge technology and design to our roads in their respective segments.”

Mr. Kartik Ware, Chairman, IMOTY, said, “The 18th edition of IMOTY saw competition as tough as its ever been. The finalists were some of the best machines India has ever seen, their capabilities ranging across the wide spectrum bookended by performance and innovation, and everything in between that a motorcycle must possess. However, there can only be one winner, and the Aprilia RS 457 is a deserving one for the special feelings it brings to Indian riders. A big thanks to my fellow jury members for making my first time out as IMOTY chairman as smooth as possible. And an equally big thanks to JK Tyre for supporting IMOTY since its inception. One more fantastic motorcycle joins the ranks of IMOTY winners!“

On winning the ICOTY 2025 award, Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO – Automotive Sector, M&M Ltd. said, “We would like to thank the esteemed ICOTY 2025 jury for honoring the Mahindra Thar ROXX with this coveted award. This recognition reaffirms the global benchmarks of design, engineering, and manufacturing excellence we have pursued. The Thar ROXX represents a passion for charting new adventures-an ethos that resonates with enthusiasts everywhere. We remain deeply grateful to our customers, whose love and trust continue to fuel our commitment to deliver unforgettable driving experiences.”

On winning the IMOTY 2025 award, Diego Graffi, MD and CEO, Piaggio Vehicles Private Limited said, “In a year graced by exceptional motorcycles, the Aprilia RS457 has emerged as a true standout. The IMOTY 2025 jury has bestowed upon the Aprilia RS457 the title of Indian Motorcycle of the Year, a resounding affirmation of its unwavering commitment to speed, agility, and Italian design. We are immensely proud to witness the Aprilia RS457 receive this well-deserved accolade. This recognition serves as a powerful testament to the dedication and passion exhibited by our team in crafting a motorcycle that truly embodies the spirit of Aprilia – speed, agility, and Italian design.”

On winning the Premium Car Award 2025 by ICOTY, Santosh Iyer, MD & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India said, “The Long Wheelbase E-Class remains the most desirable luxury sedan for the discerning Indian luxury car customer. Highly advanced and personal than ever before, the Long Wheelbase E-Class is an unmatched combination of luxury, sheer comfort, ground-breaking technology, digital intelligence and superior driving dynamics; making it the unanimous choice as India’s most admired luxury sedan. The coveted ICOTY Premium Car of the Year, is a firm testament to the Long Wheelbase E-Class’ unparalleled luxury stature in the luxury car market. I dedicate this honour to the entire Mercedes-Benz India team, who made multiple India specific enhancements to the car, making it highly suitable for the Indian conditions, exceeding even the most demanding customer requirements. The ICOTY Premium Car of the Year honour for the Long Wheelbase E-Class, salutes the innovation, pioneering spirit and brand legacy, that customers associate Mercedes-Benz with, inspiring us to create superior customer experience.”

On winning the Green Car Award 2025 by ICOTY, Rajeev Chaba, CEO Emeritus, JSW MG Motor India said, “The MG Windsor is the right product at the right time with the right pricing and packaging. It is certainly a disruptor in the segment, redefining consumer perceptions about EVs. The strong sales momentum since its launch, highlights the evolving preference of consumers. The MG Windsor ticks all the boxes of their consideration sets, especially the value for money it delivers. The MG Windsor is all the more special to us because it has been successful in debunking myths around higher acquisition cost of EVs through path breaking initiatives such as Battery-As-A-Service and lifetime battery warranty. The interplay of all these factors has helped MG Windsor to emerge as the Green Car of the Year at the coveted ICOTY 2025. I would like to thank all our customers for their unwavering support, the esteemed jury at ICOTY and everyone at JSW MG Motor India who have worked relentlessly to make this achievement possible.“

Excitement and mirth was around as students of Dr. MGR-Janaki College for Women in traditional attire celebrated Pongal in the institution’s campus today (11 Jan). It was amazing to watch bustling activities happen in a village setting recreated specially for the occasion.

Pongal fete gets all its rustic charm at Dr. MGR-Janaki College for Women

Over 4000 students wearing traditional Half Sari / Silk Sari added perfect color to the celebrations. Kummiyattam, Garagattam, Oyilaatam, Kaavadiyaattam, Silambaattam and Bommalaattam folk dances performed by students made onlookers tap their feet to the beat.

There were shops entirely set up and managed by students. They played vendors and sold Bangles & Balloons, Sugarcane Juice, Butter Milk, Tender Coconuts and Cotton Candy and more. Scenes of Mehendi Artists, Parrot fortune-telling, porridge vending, Bhajji and Sundal stalls brought alive the beauty of village sandhai.

Students’ harmonic chorus of ‘Pongalo… Pongal‘ ripped the air when the Pongal came to a boil, the main dish offered to god as thanksgiving for good crop and harvest. With this the festivity came to a close.

“In this fast-changing world, it is important for us to preserve our tradition and values. Celebrations like this will help younger generation realize the richness of our culture and pass on it to the next generation. Towards this effect, our college is regularly organizing culturally rich events,” said Dr. Kumar Rajendran, Chairman, Dr. MGR-Janaki College for Women.

For more details, please visit: www.mgrjanaki.ac.in.

Dr. Basant Goel served as the Chief Jury for the sixth edition of India’s Best Doctors Awards held at Vivanta by Taj, New Delhi on December 22, 2024. His guidance and expertise helped shape the evening, which celebrated the achievements of leaders and visionaries. Dr. Basant alongside the Chief Guest, Vaani Kapoor, presented awards to several doctors from across the nation and shared valuable insights on healthcare, making the evening truly special. India’s Best Doctors Awards is an annual ceremony presented by India’s premier branding and events company, Brands Impact. The event is organized to recognize the efforts of doctors and healthcare organizations in making our healthcare system one of the best in the world.

Chief Jury, Dr. Basant Goel presenting his biography to Chief Guest, Vaani Kapoor

Dr. Goel stands as a globally respected leader in healthcare and philanthropy. With two PhDs from the USA-one in Pharmacy and another in Diabetes-he is a recognized authority in both the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. His groundbreaking contributions to healthcare, paired with an unwavering commitment to social causes, have earned him numerous prestigious accolades, solidifying his position as an icon of compassion and excellence worldwide.

Dr. Tanuj Bhatia Recieving the Award from Chief Guest Vaani Kapoor & Chief Jury Dr. Basant Goel

Over the past decade, Dr. Goel has made a profound impact on society. He has facilitated the marriages of more than 300 underprivileged girls, organized life-saving blood donation camps, and supported thousands of families affected by leprosy. A landmark event occurred on his birthday, July 6, 2024, when he led a record-breaking blood donation drive, garnering participation from donors across the globe, including India, London, and the USA. This achievement earned India a place in the World Records Union (Guinness World Records), the India Book of Records, and the Asia Book of Records. In recognition of his extraordinary efforts, Dr. Goel was honored with the title “Blood Man” by the President of India.

Dr. Goels humanitarian initiatives extend far beyond blood donation. He provides vital medicines and educational support to over 6,500 leprosy-affected families, offers monthly pensions to 100-200 elderly individuals, and ensures that more than 50 cow shelters receive regular fodder and medical assistance. His selfless dedication to improving the lives of others has earned him admiration and respect on a global scale.

Dr. Goel’s outstanding contributions to healthcare and social welfare have been widely recognized. He has received numerous honors, including the ‘Bharat Kirtimaan’ from the British Parliament, the ‘Swasth Bharat Samman’ from Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda, and the ‘Gaurav Shri Samman‘ from the Governor of Telangana. Additionally, Gujarats Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel bestowed upon him the ‘Game Changer of India Award.’

Under Dr. Goels visionary leadership, Goel Medicos has earned prestigious accolades, including the Leadership Award 2022 for being India’s No. 1 pharmacy, and was named one of India’s Most Trusted Companies in 2023. In 2024, Dr. Goel received the International Healthcare Leadership Award.

Dr. Goel’s influence extends beyond India’s borders, as he has been globally honored with the ‘Bharat Ratna Dr. Ambedkar Award‘ and the ‘Life Achievement Award’ at the IIFA 2024 in Abu Dhabi, where Bollywood luminaries celebrated his exceptional contributions.

Dr. Basant Goel’s life exemplifies the power of visionary leadership, compassion, and innovation. Through Goel Medicos and his philanthropic endeavors, he continues to make a lasting impact on lives across the globe, proving that true success is found in service to humanity and in creating lasting, meaningful change.

Dhandeel, an AI-driven funding platform for Indian creators, has partnered with UAE-based Ikonic Global to introduce a transformative initiative, Ikonic India, set to launch on January 18, 2025. This groundbreaking collaboration aims to empower Indian creators by providing the resources, funding, and global distribution tools needed to thrive on an international scale. This partnership is set to redefine the Indian creator landscape by bridging the gap between creativity and international opportunities, thereby fostering a new era for globally recognized Indian talent.

Rohan Gurram, CEO of Dhandeel

Rohan Gurram, CEO of Dhandeel, expressed his excitement about the partnership, “We are thrilled to announce this partnership with Ikonic Global, which signifies a new era for Indian talent. Together, we are building a bridge that connects India’s immense creative potential with global opportunities, enabling creators to scale their careers and captivate audiences worldwide.”

The partnership combines Dhandeel’s expertise in funding and strategic growth with Ikonic Global’s robust international distribution network. By leveraging these strengths, Ikonic India will support creators across music, fashion, film, and digital media, unlocking new possibilities in markets such as the U.S., U.K., and the Middle East.

Ikonic India in 2025 heralds a transformative era for Indian creators. Combining Dhandeel’s AI-driven funding capabilities with Ikonic Global’s international distribution expertise, this initiative is set to empower Indian artists to scale their careers, grow their presence across the diaspora, and maximize their earnings. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, including tailored Artificial Intelligence tools, this partnership will open global opportunities and showcase the best of Indian talent to audiences worldwide.

The launch of the Ikonic India partnership will kick off with a flagship event in New Delhi, bringing together prominent creators, industry leaders, and stakeholders to celebrate the future of the Indian creator economy. This initiative marks a significant step in redefining the global impact of Indian creativity.

In a landmark initiative that underscores the commitment to sustainability and community well-being, IHCL, Goa resorts have partnered with Bisleri International on their inspiring ‘Bench of Dreams’ project. This collaborative effort aligns seamlessly with IHCL’s forward-thinking Paathya framework, which focuses on sustainability, social impact, and fostering holistic experiences for guests and the larger community.

IHCL, Goa partners with Bisleri International on their inspiring ‘Bench of Dreams’ project

A Commitment to Sustainability

The partnership between IHCL, Goa and Bisleri International is a shared vision of promoting sustainable future. The ‘Bench of Dreams‘ initiative entails the creation and installation of benches made from recycled plastic, reflecting a clear commitment to reducing plastic waste while delivering meaningful community impact. Each bench is a symbol of environmental responsibility and serves as a functional asset to in house guests at Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa and Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa.

“Sustainability is at the core of IHCL’s Paathya initiatives, and our collaboration with Bisleri International exemplifies our dedication to creating tangible change,” said Ranjit Phillipose, Senior Vice President – Operations, Goa. “Through the ‘Bench of Dreams’ project, we aim to inspire individuals and organizations to think innovatively about recycling and to join us in building a greener tomorrow.”

“At Bisleri International, we are honoured to partner with IHCL on our ‘Bench of Dreams’ initiative. This project highlights our commitment to closing the loop in plastic waste management and showcases how innovative solutions can drive sustainable development, and circular economy,” said Angelo George, CEO, Bisleri International. “Through this collaboration, IHCL, and Bisleri International invite all stakeholders, guests, and residents to join us on this transformative journey. Together, we aspire to create a future where sustainability is an integral part of everyday life.”

Bisleri – Bench of Dreams

Crafted entirely from recycled plastic bottles caps, the benches symbolise hope, responsibility, and collective progress. The benches backdrop is painted by Mouth Food and Paint Artist (MFPA) giving it an aesthetic appeal. The initiative leverages Bisleri International’s expertise in plastic recycling and IHCL, Goa’s commitment to sustainable practices to deliver a product that is both environmentally friendly and community centric. By strategically placing these benches in prominent locations across Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa and Taj Fort Aguada Resorts and Spa, the initiative creates not only functional seating solutions but also awareness among in house guests and staff alike about the importance of recycling and reducing environmental impact.