kalabhumitalkies.com

July 2026

Bisleri International and NBT India Launch a Multilingual Comic Book at the Chinar Book Festival, 2026

Titled “Chhota Bheem & Vidya – Big Green Mission”, the comic book inspires children to be environmentally responsible 20,000 English and Urdu copies of the comic book were distributed across Jammu & Kashmir   Bisleri International, in collaboration with the National Book Trust (NBT), Ministry of Education, Government of India officially launched the comic book “Chhota Bheem & Vidya – Big Green Mission“ at the Chinar Book Festival 2026 held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir. The launch is part of Bottles for Change, Bisleri International’s flagship initiative for plastic-waste recycling and responsible waste management. Available in 48 languages, including all 22 scheduled Indian languages, the comic book aims to inspire environmental responsibility among children. As part of the launch, 20,000 English and Urdu copies of the book were distributed in schools across the state.   Bisleri and NBT Launch Multilingual Children’s Comic Book on Plastic Waste Management at the Chinar Book Festival in Srinagar   The event was graced by Dr. Amit Wanchoo, Chief Convenor, Chinar Book Festival 2026; Shri Waseem Raja, JKAS, Joint Director, Tourism Department, J&K; Shri Pirzada Farooq Ahmed Shah, MLA – Gulmarg, J&K; Shri Mr. Anshul Garg, IAS, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir; Smt. Shobha Kapoor, Senior Lead – Partnerships & Communications along with Mr. K. Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International.   On the occasion, Dr. Angelo George, CEO, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. said, “At Bisleri, we believe that creating a more sustainable future begins with inspiring the next generation. Through our collaboration with the National Book Trust under our ‘Bisleri Greener Promise’ initiative, we are using the power of storytelling to make environmental responsibility engaging, relatable, and accessible for children across India. We hope ‘Chhota Bheem & Vidya – Big Green Mission’ inspires young readers to embrace simple, everyday actions that can make a meaningful difference for the planet.”   Mr. Yuvraj Malik, Director, National Book Trust, India, said, “Comic books are a powerful tool to engage young readers. Chhota Bheem & Vidya – Big Green Mission uses popular, relatable characters to encourage children to adopt simple, sustainable habits and understand how everyday actions make a difference. Our continued association with Bisleri International educates and inspires young minds with an aim to nurture a generation of informed and responsible citizens.”   Dr. Angelo George, CEO, Bisleri with Dr. Amit Wanchoo, Chief Convener, Chinar Book Festival 2026   To encourage children to embrace reading, physical activity and environmental responsibility, a 5K Reading Marathon, “Together We Read, Together We Lead” was held on 25 July 2026 along Dal Lake. The Honorable Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha flagged off the marathon. Organized as part of the week-long Chinar Book Festival, the marathon brought together thousands of school children from across Jammu & Kashmir. The event attempted to set a record in the India Book of Records (IBR) and Asia Book of Records (ABR) in the category “Maximum Children Participating in a Marathon to Promote Reading and Environment.”   The festival also featured a Bottles for Change sustainability stall showcasing products made from recycled plastic. Through interactive exhibits, visitors, including young students learnt how used plastic is collected, recycled and transformed into useful everyday products contributing to a circular economy.   Together, the comic book launch, Reading Marathon and the stall combined active participation and practical learning to encourage children and communities to adopt more environmentally responsible habits. The event marked a significant step for Bisleri’s Bottles for Change initiative as it continues to drive awareness around responsible plastic waste management and sustainable living.   In partnership with the National Book Trust, the initiative demonstrated how storytelling and education can inspire positive action and empower children to become changemakers for a greener future.   About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country’s 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 UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking 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 flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. 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.

Bisleri International and NBT India Launch a Multilingual Comic Book at the Chinar Book Festival, 2026 Read More »

HDFC Life's AUM Crosses Rs. Four Lakh Crore Milestone

HDFC Life, one of India’s leading life insurance companies, announced that its Assets Under Management (AUM) recently crossed the Rs. Four Lakh Crore milestone. The milestone is a strong reflection of the Company’s focus on enabling policyholders meet their financial goals, by strictly adhering to a prudent and disciplined approach to fund management.   Over the last 25 years, HDFC Life has systematically built trust amongst its customers by offering them innovative and simple products designed to fulfill their long-term financial goals. The Company continues to enhance its customers’ experience by offering several tech-enabled services, relevant and specific touch points, and consistent delivery on several key business metrics – all enabling the Company build and sustain trust amongst its policyholders.   Prasun Gajri, Chief Investment Officer & Chief Strategy Officer, HDFC Life   Commenting on the key milestone of the Company, Prasun Gajri, Chief Investment Officer & Chief Strategy Officer, HDFC Life, said, “At HDFC Life, our philosophy of protecting India with pride guides every aspect of our business. It’s at the core of our product design, our service architecture, and, most importantly, the way we manage our policyholders’ investments. Crossing Rs. Four Lakh Crore in AUM and being able to double the AUM within four years is a reflection of this philosophy. Our focus remains on disciplined investment practices and strategic asset allocation, which has enabled us to deliver sustainable, risk-adjusted returns while safeguarding policyholder interests.”   AUM is an important indicator of an insurer’s scale, financial strength and investment management capabilities and customer loyalty over the long-term. HDFC Life’s steady AUM growth has been underpinned by its diversified portfolio of products covering a wide range of life insurance solutions that focus on protection, savings and investment, designed to address the evolving financial needs of individuals across every stage of life.   The Company’s current debt-equity ratio is 72:28. A high proportion of its debt investments are in Government bonds and AAA-rated securities, underscoring its focus on capital preservation and risk-adjusted returns.   Alongside the AUM growth, HDFC Life has maintained a high claim-settlement ratio (99.7% in FY’26*), which reflects the Company’s continued focus on customer centricity and sustained excellence.    *Claim Settlement Ratio for individual death claims in FY’26.

HDFC Life's AUM Crosses Rs. Four Lakh Crore Milestone Read More »

Global Technology Leader IBM and Galgotias University Join Forces to Nurture Talent in Cutting-Edge Tech Domains of AI and Quantum Computing

IBM and Galgotias University have entered into a strategic collaboration to strengthen industry integrated learning, technology training, and future focused academic programmes across cutting-edge technology domains including Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, Business Analytics and other Emerging Technologies.   A strategic IBM – Galgotias University collaboration brings industry expertise, advanced technologies and experiential learning directly to students The collaboration is designed to bridge academic learning with fast evolving industry requirements through specialised programmes, curriculum support, access to IBM technologies, faculty development initiatives, certification opportunities, and experiential learning infrastructure. Under the collaboration, students at Galgotias University will gain access to industry aligned programmes supported by IBM’s technology ecosystem and learning platforms. The engagement will also support the development of joint and co branded technology labs, workshops, seminars, industry led sessions, and specialised learning pathways designed around contemporary technology domains. As part of the initiative, the University will offer programmes including B.Tech with Specialization in Quantum Computing, BCA in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, BBA in Business Analytics, and MBA in Business Analytics in association with IBM. The collaboration will also provide students and faculty members opportunities to engage with IBM Developer Skills Network, industry oriented courseware, certification pathways, and guided learning modules supported by subject matter experts and industry practitioners. The proposed engagement further aims to strengthen practical and applied learning through curriculum innovation, faculty orientation programmes, lab based learning environments, and exposure to enterprise grade technologies and software platforms. Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University, said, “This collaboration with IBM adds to the growing ecosystem of industry centric Centres of Excellence, technology partnerships, and innovation platforms being built at Galgotias University. Very recently, we inaugurated India’s first Advanced Electric Vehicle Centre of Excellence by L&T EduTech, announced our venture ecosystem partnership with 247VC, and now this strategic collaboration with IBM. Together, these initiatives reflect the direction in which higher education is evolving, where universities are becoming active innovation ecosystems closely integrated with industry, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies.” He added, “Our objective is to ensure that students are industry ready, innovation oriented, and globally exposed from the very beginning of their academic journey. Collaborations like these create stronger pathways between classrooms, research, startups, technology platforms, and real world problem solving.” The collaboration further strengthens Galgotias University’s larger ecosystem of advanced technology infrastructure, industry partnerships, startup incubation, and multidisciplinary innovation. The University continues to expand its Centres of Excellence and experiential learning ecosystem through collaborations with leading organizations like Apple, Infosys, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, and Salesforce, while continuing to strengthen its global academic engagement and startup ecosystem. About Galgotias University Galgotias University is one of India’s leading multidisciplinary universities recognised for academic excellence, research, innovation, global collaborations, and industry aligned education. With a vibrant student community of over 50,000 learners and a global alumni network of more than 100,000 graduates, the University has built a rapidly growing ecosystem focused on technology, entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world impact. In the QS World University Rankings 2027 by Quacquarelli Symonds, Galgotias University was placed in the 1201-1400 global band and ranked 16th among private universities and 46th among all universities in India. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the University was placed in the 1201-1500 global band and ranked 27th among private universities and 65th among all universities in India. The University is also accredited with NAAC A+, one of India’s highest institutional quality ratings. Galgotias University offers programmes across engineering, artificial intelligence, computer science, semiconductors, business, law, media, design, health sciences, hospitality, liberal education, and emerging interdisciplinary domains. In 2026, students secured more than 5,500 job offers from over 1,250 recruiters. The University has built strong industry and innovation partnerships with organisations including Apple, Infosys, IBM, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, and Salesforce, while continuing to strengthen its global academic engagement and startup ecosystem.

Global Technology Leader IBM and Galgotias University Join Forces to Nurture Talent in Cutting-Edge Tech Domains of AI and Quantum Computing Read More »

Roca Expands the Ohtake Collection: A Celebration of Organic Design and Artistic Legacy

Roca, the global leader in bathroom solutions, announces the Indian launch of an expanded Ohtake Collection, now enriched with new basin designs by architect and designer Rodrigo Ohtake. Building on the original collection conceived by the late, legendary Brazilian architect Ruy Ohtake, the expanded range brings a renewed vision of organic form, artistic sensibility, and material excellence to the contemporary bathroom.   Ohtake Collection Roca   A Legacy Rooted in Nature The Ohtake Collection was born from the organic shapes that define the Brazilian landscape. For Ruy Ohtake, nature was not merely a reference — it was a vocabulary. Curving surfaces, round shapes, and undulating edges became the defining language of a designer whose ambition was always to awaken the senses and create a connection that transcended utilitarian function.   In developing the original collection, Ruy found an unexpected source of inspiration in the egg – admiring its exceptional structural rigidity achieved through the most delicate of forms. Drawing a parallel between the lightness of an eggshell and Roca’s proprietary Fineceramic® material, he harnessed cutting-edge technology to achieve the ultra-thin borders that give the collection its sculptural character.   The resulting pieces — with their sensual, undulating edges and outlines — evoke a walk along the shoreline rather than a conventional basin. As Ruy himself said: “A good piece of Architecture, of design, must have an element of unpredictability, of emotion.”   That first collection went on to receive the prestigious Red Dot Design Award 2019, recognised for the way it fuses technology, functionality, and aesthetics in a symbiotic way.   Rodrigo Ohtake: Continuing the Family Dialogue Since the passing of Ruy Ohtake in November 2021, his son Rodrigo Ohtake has led the OHTAKE office, a multidisciplinary studio spanning architecture, design, urbanism, and material innovation. For Rodrigo, the Brazilian landscape — its colours, forms, and atmosphere — remains a constant presence in his creative process. “Living with Art and Nature makes life gentler, softer,” he observes.   Growing up amid his father’s prolific architectural practice and the celebrated abstract works of his grandmother, pioneering Asian-Brazilian artist Tomie Ohtake, art and design are second nature for Rodrigo. His contribution to the Ohtake Collection for Roca reflects this layered inheritance — contemporary in sensibility, yet deeply rooted in a family tradition of transformative design.   New Basins: The Calla Lily and the Art of the Hand For his debut contribution to the Ohtake Collection, Rodrigo sought to create designs that invite engagement. Taking Ruy’s celebrated curves as a starting point, he opened and softened the forms, extending the basin’s silhouette as if a cupped hand reaching to collect water.   The poetic inspiration for the two new over-countertop basins is the calla lily flower — its delicate, unfurling form translated into refined ceramic geometry. Rodrigo developed the designs through a hands-on process, sculpting miniature dough maquettes to find the ideal proportions, a creative method not unlike the artistic practice of his grandmother Tomie.   The new basins are available in three finishes: White, Matt Black, and a new Terracotta — an earthy, warm tone that evokes the ochre soils and sun-baked clay of the Brazilian interior. Rodrigo’s new designs were recognised for their originality with the “Best in Show” award at the 2023 Expo Revestir, the annual design event in São Paulo.   Fineceramic®: The Material of Sculptural Possibility All Ohtake basins are crafted from Roca’s proprietary Fineceramic® — an advanced ceramic material that enables the ultra-thin walls and precisely tapered edges central to the collection’s sculptural identity. Fineceramic® delivers exceptional durability, scratch resistance, and a refined surface quality that ensures each piece retains its elegance through years of daily use.   Product Overview The expanded Ohtake Collection is available in India and includes: Over-countertop Fineceramic® Basin, 625 × 385 mm (RS327A1P..0) – Available in White, Stone, Matt Black, and Terracotta. Over-countertop Fineceramic® Basin, 550 × 385 mm (RS327A13..0) – A refined mid-size option. Available in White, Beige, and Matt Black. Over-countertop Fineceramic® Basin, Ø380 mm (RS327A15..0) – Available in White, beige, and Matt Black.   All basins are available in the following finishes: 00 White | 07 Stone | 65 Beige | 08 Matt Black | TC Terracotta (selected models).   About Roca Founded in Barcelona in 1917, Roca is a family-owned company dedicated to the design, manufacturing, and distribution of complete bathroom solutions for architecture, construction, and interior design. Combining over a century of tradition and craftsmanship with a passion for innovation, Roca is today present in 170 countries, operating 79 factories across five continents with more than 20,000 employees worldwide.   Sustainability sits at the core of every Roca decision. The company has achieved a 54% decrease in water consumption, a 53% reduction in Scope 1+2 CO₂ emissions, and 78% of waste valorised — all between 2018 and 2024 — in pursuit of its net-zero ambition by 2045. Roca’s commitment extends beyond product performance to ensuring access to water and sanitation for communities that need it most.   In India, Roca continues to set the standard for premium bathroom experiences, bringing world-class design and engineering to homes, hotels, and commercial spaces across the country.   For more information, visit www.roca.in.

Roca Expands the Ohtake Collection: A Celebration of Organic Design and Artistic Legacy Read More »

Bisleri International Partners with Ultimate Table Tennis as Official Hydration Partner for the Second Year

Bisleri International, India’s leading packaged drinking water company, partners with Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) as its Official Hydration Partner. As part of the second year of the association, Bisleri will support the league’s hydration requirements while strengthening its brand presence across one of India’s premier table tennis platforms.   Bisleri International Partners with Ultimate Table Tennis as Official Hydration Partner for the Second Year   Through this association, the brand aims to enhance fan engagement and visibility with an integrated presence across on-ground and media platforms. The partnership will feature prominent branding across LED boards & perimeter boards, showcasing brand film, television commercials, exclusive campaign shoots, visi coolers, iceboxes, and a robust digital campaign with amplification of videos across digital platforms, ensuring extensive engagement with audiences throughout the tournament.   Commenting on the association, Tushar Malhotra, Senior Director of Sales & Marketing, Bisleri International, said,“We’re proud to partner with Ultimate Table Tennis as its Official Hydration Partner. The league has played a key role in growing table tennis in India, and we’re excited to support its journey. By helping athletes stay hydrated and connecting with fans, this partnership reflects our commitment to Indian sport and the role hydration plays in performance.”   Commenting on the partnership, Vita Dani, Chairperson Ultimate Table Tennis said, “We are pleased to welcome Bisleri International as the Official Hydration Partner of Ultimate Table Tennis. As a brand synonymous with trust and quality, Bisleri’s association aligns with our commitment to delivering a world-class sporting experience for players and fans alike. We look forward to working together over the next three years to elevate the league through impactful fan engagement and integrated brand experiences.“   The partnership begins with Season 7 of Ultimate Table Tennis, taking place from July 9 to July 26, 2026, at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Goa. The long-term association reflects Bisleri’s continued commitment to supporting Indian sport, promoting athlete wellness, and strengthening its presence across one of the country’s premier table tennis leagues.   Link: www.instagram.com/reel/DbS5LF6zovc/?igsh=MWNkOWV6cTh0Mm9hMA==   About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country’s 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 UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking 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 flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. 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.

Bisleri International Partners with Ultimate Table Tennis as Official Hydration Partner for the Second Year Read More »

Dr. Azad Moopen Meets Shri D.K. Shivakumar; Reaffirms Aster DM Quality Care's Commitment to Karnataka with Rs 1,315 Crore Investment

Dr. Azad Moopen, Executive Chairman of Aster DM Quality Care, met Shri D.K. Shivakumar and reaffirmed Aster’s long-term commitment to Karnataka through a planned investment of Rs. 1,315 crore to further strengthen the State’s healthcare infrastructure.   The Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri D.K. Shivakumar with the Leadership of Aster DM Quality Care   Aster has significantly expanded its footprint in Karnataka through Aster CMI Hospital, Aster RV Hospital, Aster Whitefield Hospital, and Aster Women & Children Hospital. The company continues to invest in advanced healthcare infrastructure to meet the growing needs of the State.   Speaking after the meeting, Dr. Azad Moopen, Executive Chairman, Aster DM Quality Care, said,  “Karnataka has been a cornerstone of Aster’s growth in India and remains one of our most strategic markets. The State is at the forefront of healthcare innovation, supported by world-class clinical talent and a progressive healthcare ecosystem. Our planned investment of Rs. 1,315 crore reflects our long-term confidence in Karnataka. We remain committed to partnering with the Government of Karnataka to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, expand access to advanced medical care, promote medical education and research, and improve healthcare outcomes for the people of the State.”   Aster DM Quality Care currently operates 39 hospitals with over 10,600 beds and four hospitals in Karnataka with 1,329 operational beds, creating one of the strongest integrated healthcare networks in India and the State. As part of its expansion plans, Aster is developing the 550-bed Aster Hospital, Yeshwantpur, the 460-bed Aster Hospital, Sarjapur, and a 350-bed expansion at Aster CMI Hospital, substantially increasing access to advanced tertiary and quaternary healthcare services in Bengaluru.   During the discussions, Dr. Moopen highlighted Aster’s commitment to supporting Karnataka’s healthcare priorities through investments in healthcare infrastructure, medical education, skill development, employment generation, healthcare technology, medical tourism, research, innovation, and charitable healthcare initiatives.   Mr. Varun Khanna, Managing Director & Group CEO, Aster DM Quality Care, said, “The scale and capabilities of Aster DM Quality Care position us to accelerate the next phase of healthcare transformation in Karnataka. As we continue to strengthen our presence across the State, we aim to make complex and specialised care more accessible while reinforcing Karnataka’s position as one of India’s leading centres for healthcare innovation and medical excellence.”   Ms. Alisha Moopen, Director, Aster DM Quality Care, added, “Our focus extends beyond expanding capacity. We are building an integrated healthcare ecosystem that combines advanced clinical care, digital innovation, medical education, research, and compassionate service. Through these investments, we are committed to delivering world-class healthcare while creating sustainable value for patients, communities, and the State of Karnataka.”   The proposed investment of Rs. 1,315 crore underscores Aster DM Quality Care’s long-term vision of making Karnataka one of its most important centres for clinical excellence, innovation, medical education, and patient-centric healthcare.   About Aster DM Quality Care Limited* Aster DM Quality Care Limited is one of India’s leading integrated healthcare providers, formed through the merger of Aster DM Healthcare Limited and Quality Care India Limited. The merged entity will bring together four leading healthcare brands – Aster DM, CARE Hospitals, Evercare and KIMSHEALTH, creating a scaled and diversified healthcare platform with a network of 39 hospitals across 28 cities and over 10,600 beds. With a strong presence across South and Central India, the merged entity will deliver comprehensive healthcare services spanning primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary care, supported by centres of excellence across key specialties including oncology, cardiac sciences, neurosciences, gastro sciences, orthopaedics, nephrology, organ transplantation, mother and child care, and critical care. *Name change subject to receipt of Certificate of Incorporation pursuant to the merger. Currently named Aster DM Healthcare Limited.  

Dr. Azad Moopen Meets Shri D.K. Shivakumar; Reaffirms Aster DM Quality Care's Commitment to Karnataka with Rs 1,315 Crore Investment Read More »

India's Next Growth Story Lies in the Rise of Retail and Commercial Real Estate

The current phase of commercial real estate in India sees a combination of retail and office developments that are not functioning as independent asset classes anymore. As business grows, consumption becomes higher and GCCs expand their footprints, office and retail integrated development which consists of Grade A office spaces along with top-class retail has become a sought after investment destination. Leasing of office spaces in India has seen all time high figures due to the expansion of GCCs and MNCs. Retail leasing in India too has seen all time high figures in India.   Retail and commercial real estate are emerging as key drivers of India’s next growth story, creating integrated destinations for work, shopping and leisure   According to the industry sources, the leasing in India’s retail sector stood at about 8.9 million sq. ft. in 2025, backed by robust demand for fashion, F&B and experiential brands. On the other hand, GCCs made up over 40% of Grade A office leasing, signaling the rising confidence of international occupiers in India’s business environment. Such developments have encouraged developers to develop destinations that combine the facilities to work, shop, dine and relax under one roof.   Commenting on the trend, Harpreet Singh Hora, Director, Reach Group, said, “Office spaces of the future are going to be driven by innovation, connectivity, and flexibility. Organizations are on the lookout for places of work that can merge technology, sustainability, and employee-friendly features. The growing demands of the industry are inspiring real estate developers to construct smart future-proof commercial environments.”   Sharing his perspective, Dr. Amish Bhutani, Managing Director, Group 108, says, “Retail and commercial projects have become an integral part of India’s economic progress. Their role today extends well beyond providing business space. They are evolving into vibrant destinations that bring together commerce, convenience, and everyday experiences. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, integrated developments that combine retail, dining, entertainment, and workplaces are becoming increasingly important. Businesses are also placing greater emphasis on locations that offer seamless connectivity, quality infrastructure, and an environment that supports long-term growth. We believe this evolution will continue to shape India’s urban landscape, creating lasting value for businesses, communities, and investors alike.“   Echoing a similar outlook, Ajendra Singh, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing at Spectrum@Metro said, “The difference between retail and commercial real estate is becoming blurred. The consumer demands convenience, whereas business looks for vibrant ecosystems that can pull in talent and foster innovation. The mixed-use development of office, retail, entertainment and hospitality, all in one place, is becoming a sustainable urban destination in itself. This model is predicted to dominate the future of Indian business districts’ commercial real estate market.“   Azad Ahmad Lone, President, Business Development and Operations, Biigtech, said, “The future of commercial real estate development is the integration of business destinations comprising offices, retail, eating-out places and facilities. The current occupier needs extend beyond the office space; what they need is an environment that improves their experience and helps in business growth. There has been a growing demand for mixed-use commercial property developments because of the convenience factor and high footfalls. Due to improvement in infrastructure and corporate expansion, these types of developments are likely to continue to play a crucial role in the Indian commercial real estate sector.”   As corporate expansion continues to increase alongside consumer demand and infrastructure development, it is predicted that the relationship between retail and commercial real estate will prove to be one of the key catalysts behind the Indian real estate industry. Developers who build ready-for-the-future and experiential mixed use developments are set up to entice both businesses and consumers.

India's Next Growth Story Lies in the Rise of Retail and Commercial Real Estate Read More »

After 22 Years in Real Estate, Dr. Renu Rana Launches RENALIYAS

After more than two decades in India’s real estate sector, Dr. Renu Rana has announced the launch of RENALIYAS, marking her transition from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship.   Dr. Renu Rana, Founder & CEO, RENALIYAS, on the launch of her integrated real estate and development platform Having begun her career at the age of 19 as a receptionist, Dr. Rana progressed through various leadership roles in the real estate industry and most recently served as Director – Strategy, Sales & Marketing. Over the course of her career, she has worked across residential, commercial, retail, mixed-use, hospitality, and township developments while collaborating with developers, landowners, investors, consultants, channel partners, and other industry stakeholders. RENALIYAS has been established as an integrated real estate and development platform built around strategy, partnerships, and development. The company aims to identify opportunities, build meaningful collaborations, and create long-term value across the real estate ecosystem. Speaking on the launch, Dr. Renu Rana, Founder & CEO, RENALIYAS, said, “My professional journey has been shaped by the organisations I have worked with, the leaders who mentored me, the teams I have led, and the relationships I have built over the years. The launch of RENALIYAS is a natural progression of that journey. It represents the experience, trust, and perspective gained over more than two decades in the industry.” She added, “India’s real estate sector is entering an important phase of growth, driven by urbanisation, infrastructure development, institutional investment, and evolving consumer expectations. The future will belong to organisations that combine clarity of vision, strong partnerships, and disciplined execution. Through RENALIYAS, we aim to contribute meaningfully to this transformation.” Founded on the philosophy “Land to Legacy,” RENALIYAS plans to work with developers, landowners, investors, institutions, and strategic partners across residential, commercial, retail, mixed-use, hospitality, and township opportunities. The company’s long-term vision includes participating in development opportunities, building strategic partnerships, and creating projects that deliver enduring value for all stakeholders. The launch marks a new entrepreneurial chapter for Dr. Rana, with RENALIYAS positioned as an organisation built on integrity, collaboration, disciplined execution, and sustainable growth. About Dr. Renu Rana Dr. Renu Rana is the Founder & CEO of RENALIYAS and brings over 22 years of experience in India’s real estate sector. Her expertise spans business strategy, sales, marketing, partnerships, market expansion, and real estate development across multiple asset classes. About RENALIYAS RENALIYAS is an integrated real estate and development platform that brings together strategy, partnerships, and development. Guided by its philosophy, “Land to Legacy,” the company collaborates with developers, landowners, investors, institutions, and strategic partners to create long-term opportunities and enduring value across the real estate sector.  

After 22 Years in Real Estate, Dr. Renu Rana Launches RENALIYAS Read More »

Luxury Housing Outperforms Amid Global Headwinds

Amid global economic instability that has cast a shadow over several asset classes, India’s luxury housing sector is one to watch. Luxury residences continue to attract the interest of high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and are gaining an increasing share of residential sales.  Rising earnings, business success, a growing pool of high-net-worth individuals and unabated interest from Non-Resident Indians have resulted in a persistent demand for upmarket homes.   Luxury housing continues to gain momentum as buyers prioritise premium living, quality, and long-term value across key Indian markets   A report for H1 FY 2026 by Anarock revealed that luxury and premium homes accounted for nearly 42% of new home supply in key cities and represented about Rs. 2.98 lakh crore of residential sales value, growing 7% year-on-year, while housing sales volume remained largely stable. The data indicate that buyers are choosing more upscale homes, alongside the luxury segment’s increased market share.   Uddhav Poddar, CMD, Bhumika Group said, “Despite global economic uncertainties, the luxury housing segment has continued to demonstrate resilience, driven by discerning buyers who are prioritising quality, trust and long-term value over short-term market fluctuations. Today’s luxury homebuyers evaluate not only the residence but the overall living experience, including thoughtful design, wellness, connectivity and the credibility of the developer. As aspirations continue to evolve and purchasing decisions become more value-driven, we believe demand for well-planned premium developments will remain strong over the long term.”   The residential environment is now more appealing for end-users and investors alike, with transparency driven by RERA and quality developments delivered by reputable developers. Among the major cities, Mumbai remains the most expensive residential market in India. Luxury home prices in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) have risen by around 43 per cent in the last three years, backed by limited supply and persistent demand from rich homeowners, said ANAROCK. But in terms of transaction value, Delhi-NCR has become the largest luxury home market in the country.   Gurpal Singh Chawla, Managing Director, TREVOC Group, said, “The luxury residential market continues to outperform because buyers today are investing in experiences rather than just square footage. They seek homes that combine thoughtful design, timeless architecture and spaces that evolve with their lifestyle. We believe the future of luxury lies in creating residences that deliver enduring value, comfort and a meaningful living experience for generations.”   Gurugram witnessed sales of properties priced above Rs. 10 crore worth around Rs. 24,120 crore in 2025, beating MMR’s Rs. 21,902 crore for the first time, according to data from Sotheby’s International Realty and CRE Matrix. The trend has continued into 2026, with Gurugram accounting for over 73 per cent of total residential releases in Delhi-NCR during the second quarter. As a major business and financial hub, supplemented with high-end retail, hospitality and social infrastructure, the city continues to attract entrepreneurs, senior executives and worldwide professionals.   Mitul Jain, Managing Director, SPJ Group, said, “Luxury housing is witnessing sustained momentum as homebuyers increasingly prioritise quality, exclusivity and long-term value. Today’s luxury developments are expected to offer a seamless blend of design excellence, superior amenities and strategic locations, making luxury residences a preferred choice for discerning buyers and investors alike. In Gurugram, robust infrastructure, expanding corporate presence and the emergence of well-planned luxury micro-markets have further strengthened demand for luxury residences. As a result, luxury homes have evolved beyond aspirational purchases into resilient, future-ready assets for both end-users and investors.”   Noida is fast turning out to be the next luxury destination in NCR. The developing metro network, motorway connectivity and the impending Noida International Airport are turning the city into an appealing destination for luxury residential complexes. Integrated townships, better value propositions and modern infrastructure are luring end users and investors.   Salil Kumar, Director, Marketing & Business Management, CRC Group, said, “Noida’s luxury housing segment has transformed considerably due to the transformative infrastructure developments and the increasing preference for elevated living experiences. Expectations are still evolving, and the luxury segment is setting the bar higher with sophisticated living experiences that are comfortable, functional, and have long-term value.”   For developers, luxury housing offers the advantage of higher revenue per unit, allowing for greater focus on design, build quality, and customer experience. At the same time, however, buyers are becoming more sophisticated and demanding the worldwide standards of execution, competent property management and long-term after-sales support.   Saurab Saharan, Group Managing Director, HCBS Developments Ltd., said, “The definition of luxury has evolved significantly over the last few years. Buyers today are looking for homes that offer spacious layouts, wellness-driven amenities, sustainable design, and superior connectivity. In Gurugram, this shift is particularly evident as infrastructure upgrades and a thriving corporate ecosystem continue to attract discerning homebuyers and investors. As aspirations continue to rise, thoughtfully planned luxury communities are becoming the benchmark for modern urban living, supported by strong end-user demand, limited quality supply, and strong long-term investment potential.”   Backed by strong economic fundamentals, infrastructure development and changing aspirations of buyers, Delhi-NCR, led by Gurugram and fast catching up Noida, is well placed to remain India’s most vibrant luxury housing market. Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad continue to be the anchors of India’s premium residential growth.

Luxury Housing Outperforms Amid Global Headwinds Read More »

Glow by Kirtilals Unveils 'The Frill Collection': A Contemporary Natural Diamonds Collection, Inspired by Graceful Movement

Glow by Kirtilals launches The Frill Collection, a range of high quality, lightweight natural diamond jewellery inspired by the fluid elegance of flowing fabrics and delicate frills. Designed for the modern woman, this collection brings together contemporary aesthetics and everyday versatility through graceful, flowing forms.   Frill Collection from Glow by Kirtilals, A contemporary natural diamonds collection, inspired by graceful movement   The Frill Collection captures the essence of movement with soft silhouettes and refined craftsmanship. Each design is created to complement different occasions, making it suitable for work, celebrations, and everyday wear while reflecting effortless sophistication   The collection features a wide range of rings, earrings, pendants, bracelets, and necklaces, crafted with high quality natural diamonds at the Glow by Kirtilals in-house State of the art manufacturing facility. Combining lightweight construction with elegant detailing, the collection offers jewellery that balances style, comfort, and versatility.   Glow by Kirtilals has announced a launch offer of Flat 50% Off on Making Charges, Flat 15% Off on Diamonds, along with an additional Rs. 125 per gram on old gold exchange when purchasing diamond jewellery. These exclusive launch offers provide customers with the perfect opportunity to own timeless diamond creations at exceptional value.   The Frill collection is now available at Glow by Kirtilals stores in Bengaluru, Chennai – VR Chennai & Adyar, Erode, Hyderabad, Kochi, Madurai, Mysuru, Thrissur, Tirupur, and Vijayawada. Customers can also explore and shop the collection online at www.glowJewels.com.   About Glow by Kirtilals Glow by Kirtilals is the Gen Z and millennial take on the legendary Kirtilals legacy, crafting fine jewellery for over 87 years. Glow by Kirtilals has 11 exclusive showrooms across South India. With in-house artistry, manufacturing, and expert craftsmanship, Glow creates natural diamond and gold jewellery designed for everyday confidence, style, and self-expression.   

Glow by Kirtilals Unveils 'The Frill Collection': A Contemporary Natural Diamonds Collection, Inspired by Graceful Movement Read More »