Archive: August 31, 2025

Kolor Champ 2025: 570 Kids unleash their wild imagination on My City Hyderabad in 2050

Hyderabad, August 31, 2025 – Global Art Academy hosted Kolor Champ 2025, the city’s largest regional-level art competition, where 570 young artists showcased their creativity at SR Classic Convention, Shamshabad. Participants from 26 centres across Hyderabad came together for this grand event.

kolar champ

The theme of the competition was “My City Hyderabad in 2050”. Depending on their level of training, children were given between 1 hour and 45 minutes and 2 hours and 45 minutes to paint their vision of the future.

The theme sparked wild, funny, and heart-warming ideas. From flying autos to rainbow lakes, the children’s art mixed innocence, exaggeration, and crazy logic.

Some of their wildest imaginations on the theme were: In 2050, Metro trains in Hyderabad will have wings and land on school rooftops!” – imagined one of the participants

In the year 2050, Auto rickshaws will run on pani puri water instead of petrol.”, imagined another participant.

“My Hyderabad will have robot policemen riding on camels,” was how Rajinish, the 8th grader.

A 11-year-old Soni felt that “Biryani would be delivered by drones directly into your mouth.”

“Necklace Road will sparkle with a real diamond necklace around the lake.”That was how Preethi imagined

“All traffic jams will disappear because cars will jump like frogs.” – another kid imagined

“Every child will have a robot dog to take them to school.” – Shwetha, Grade 7, imagined.

“Charminar will wear sunglasses because the sun will be too bright in 2050.” Ketan, 9 9-year-old boy, imagined about future of Hyderabad

A day we will see in 2050, where “Drone cops will fly in the air to control drone traffic.”, Ramya imagined.

Chief Guest Mrs. Shailaja Reddy, educationist and Principal of Meridian School, Uppal, stressed that drawing is a healthy alternative to screens:

“In today’s world, every parent struggles to cut down screen time for their child. Drawing improves focus and attention span. Finland, for example, has passed a law restricting smartphones and tablets during school hours. Australia, too, has banned children under 16 from having social media accounts. India must also take such issues seriously.”

Guest of Honour Mr. Dinesh Victor, Managing Director of SIP Academy and a leading voice in children’s skill development, highlighted two key issues:

“Studies show children engaged in creative arts develop higher problem-solving skills and emotional resilience.”

He urged the Government to remove GST on After-School Skill Development

“Why should parents pay 18% GST on after-school programmes like Abacus, Art, Dance, Music, Yoga, and Languages? These are not ‘extras’—they are “essential” skills for the future. When GST was introduced in 2017, school and college education were kept tax-free. The same logic should apply here.”

Dinesh argued that after-school learning today is as crucial as formal education was in the 1950s. Taxing it only burdens middle and low-income families and denies many children the chance to access life skills.

“Investing in children’s skills is investing in India’s future. GST should be 0%—or at least significantly reduced—to make these opportunities affordable for every parent.”

Kolor Champ was more than an art contest. It was a platform to nurture creativity, imagination, and self-expression in children. In an age dominated by screens, the event highlights the timeless magic of crayons, paints, and raw creativity.

The regional winners will go to represent the state in the national and international competition to be held in October in Chennai.

Vezlay wins Plant Based Food of the Year 2025 award

31st August 2025, New Delhi: Vezlay Foods Private Limited, a leading brand in plant-based food products, has been honoured with the prestigious “Plant-Based Food of the Year 2025” award by the Star International MSME Forum. This Award was Presented by Mathura MP and actress Hema Malini.This recognition highlights the company’s dedication to providing healthy and sustainable plant-based alternatives to the growing demand for nutritious food options.

Vezlay wins Plant Based Food of the Year 2025 award

The Star International MSME Forum is a leading platform for micro, small, and medium enterprises across India. The Forum brings together over 2,000 business owners, exporters, and industry leaders. It hosts the annual MSME Global Summit and the Star MSME Awards, recognizing standout innovations and leadership in the MSME sector.

Receiving the award, Mr. Laxman Das Bajaj, Chairman of Vezlay Foods Private Limited, said, “The demand for plant-based foods in India has grown significantly as more consumers seek healthier, sustainable options that align with modern lifestyles. These foods are not only rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, but also offer a safe and tasty alternative to conventional diets.”

Mr. Bajaj said, “Vezlay has been able to bring passion around plant-based food closer to every Indian home. At Vezlay, we blend health and nutrition with India’s deep-rooted love for flavour.”

Vezlay Foods, founded in 2010 by entrepreneur Amit Bajaj, was one of India’s earliest innovators in the plant-based space. The company introduced nutritious, soy-based foods crafted especially for the Indian palate. Their range includes more than 40 products and includes easy-to-store items. These products are widely available through well-known retailers like Reliance, Raj Mandir, Le Marche, SPAR, and Spencer’s. as well as online platforms like Big Basket and Swiggy Instamart. In addition to retail and online presence, Vezlay Foods also supplies its products to prestigious hotel chains including Novotel Pullman, The Oberoi, Hyatt, and Radisson, establishing its position as a trusted name in the plant-based industry.

Dr. Bhargav Mallappa Gets Key Role as Janata Party National Secretary for Five Southern States

Dr. Bhargav Mallappa

#Appointment reflects recognition of his leadership and organisational work in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana

New Delhi, August 30, 2025:

Dr. Bhargav Mallappa, a young leader known for his grassroots commitment and organisational abilities, has been formally appointed as the National Secretary (Organisation) of the Janata Party, in charge of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. The appointment was made by Janata Party National President Navneet Chaturvedi at a ceremony held at the Constitution Club of India.

Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Mallappa said, “I thank the leadership of the Janata Party, especially President Navneet Chaturvedi ji, for placing their trust in me. I am committed to working with full dedication to expand the organisation in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, and to serve the people with honesty and accountability.”

He further added, “My focus will be on expanding grassroots outreach, empowering local leadership, and building a strong, united organisation that reflects the aspirations of the people of South India. With the guidance of our national leadership, I will work with dedication to advance the values of the Janata Party and bring meaningful change in society.”

Dr. Mallappa also serves as the National Deputy Chairman of the National Bharat Sevak Samaj (NBSS) and has earned recognition for his achievements at just 25 years of age. His active engagement in public service, focus on youth participation, and proven organisational skills have made him one of the most promising young political leaders working for social and political change in southern India.

Speaking on the occasion, Janata Party President Mr. Navneet Chaturvedi said, “The Janata Party is moving forward with a clear vision of organisational growth and public service. We are pleased to appoint Dr. Bhargav Mallappa to this important responsibility. His dedication and experience will help us strengthen the party in southern India and take our message directly to the people.”

Indorama, Techno India Dama Hospital & Mission Smile Join Hands to offer Free Cleft Surgeries in West Bengal

Kolkata, 30th August, 2025: Indorama, a leading manufacturer of phosphatic and urea fertilisers in India in collaboration with Mission Smile an FCRA registered medical charity conducted a comprehensive Cleft Surgical Camp at Techno India Dama Hospital, which provided free cleft surgeries to children and young adults from West Bengal. The five-day camp was held between 22nd August, 2025 to 26th August, 2025.

The announcement of this noble initiative was made in the presence of Mrs. Jayshree Verma, Trustee Mission Smile, Dr. Rashmi Taneja, Founder Trustee Mission Smile, Dr. Hiteshwar Sarma, Director GC4 Centre of Mission Smile Guwahati, Mr. Jayanto Narayan Choudhary-IPS, Co-Chairman Mission Smile, Dr. Tarun Sahni-Co Chairman Mission Smile, Prof. Dr Shripada Mehandale, FMD Mission Smile, Prof. Manoshi Roy Chowdhury, Co-Chairperson Techno India Group, Dr Rizwan Sadique, Consultant Mission Smile, Dr. Saurav Ghosh, Medical Director, Techno India DAMA Hospital, Mr. Conrad G Dennis, CEO Mission Smile, Mr. Sourabh Bhattacharya, AVP HR Indorama, Mrs. Mona Sarkar, CEO Admin & Medical of TIDH & an eminent Plastic Surgeon India, Dr. Manish Mukul Ghosh Surgical Team Leader Mission Team.

“We organise the voluntary Cleft Surgery Camp at Techno India Hospitals’ campus on regular intervals. It is a humanistic initiative from the expert medical team of our healthcare unit which not only includes one of the finest Plastic Surgeon of India, Dr. Manish Mukul Ghosh but also several other eminent personalities of Mission Smile and Indorama came from Delhi, Bangalore, Singapore and Abu Dhabi. We try as far as possible to expand our outreach towards the underprivileged section of the society for the sake of their welfare and the life which they also deserve. The young adults are also a part of the target patients which the team screens and operates as per the requirement for transforming the defect which they are born with. This contributes in a paramount amount in boosting their confidence and is a support for their parents as well. In the 4th edition of the voluntary Cleft Surgery camp we have screened more than 2300 children and young adults of Bengal. The response was overwhelming and we are privileged to be a part of such a distinguished initiative,” said Prof. Manoshi Roy Chowdhury, Co-Chairperson Techno India Group.

“Over the last two years in partnership with Mission Smile, we have successfully operated on more than 250 patients, with 76% being children and 24% young adults. A testament to our commitment to transforming young lives through timely medical intervention. This time, screened around 2300 patients and we performed safe and successful surgeries. Our team remained dedicated to ensure each patient receives the best possible care and outcomes”, said Dr Sourav Ghosh, Medical Director, Techno India DAMA Hospital.

“From August 22–25, 2025, Mission Smile restored a brighter future to more than 50 children born with cleft deformities. This is thanks to the magnanimous support of the Indorama India Private Limited and our steadfast partner, Techno India DAMA Hospital & Medical Centre. I am thrilled to announce that Mission Smile has just completed a historical Millstone of 50,000 safe surgeries last Month, we remain committed to transforming lives and spreading smiles around the world”, Said Mr Conrad Dennis, CEO-Mission Smile

This is the first Time that Indorama India Private Limited has joined hands with Mission Smile to transform Clefts to Smiles and contributed financially to provide 50 children and young adults of West Bengal mostly from East and West Medinipur, Hoogly, Kolkata and nearby district of Haldia Factory.

Overall 50100+ free cleft surgeries have been conducted by Mission Smile and 75000+ medical evaluation across India since its inception. 480 patients received free surgeries through Mission Smile last year and overall 8700+ in West Bengal.

Farhana Bodi Steals the Spotlight at the 82nd Venice Film Festival

Mumbai, August 30, 2025: The 82nd Venice Film Festival opened on August 27, 2025, transforming the Lido di Venezia into a dazzling stage for global cinema and red-carpet moments. While Hollywood royalty including Cate Blanchett, Emma Stone, George and Amal Clooney, Heidi Klum with daughter Leni, Julia Roberts, Adam Sandler, and Barbara Palvin brought their star power, it was Netflix’s Dubai Bling sensation, Farhana Bodi, who emerged as one of the evening’s most talked-about names.

Making her appearance with unmistakable poise, Farhana Bodi ruled the Venice red carpet in a custom white silver embellished dress by Atelier Zuhra. A striking statement of fusion couture, the gown’s sleek design and sparkling silver details, a signature of Dubai’s bold couture house, turned heads instantly. Every step down the carpet was met with a frenzy of camera flashes, confirming her arrival as a fashion force on the global stage.

Farhana struck the perfect balance of glamour and sophistication with foxy eyes and nude glossy lips, finished with sleek, textured waves that captured the spirit of Venice. She elevated the ensemble with a bespoke Roberto Coin jewelry set of white diamonds and silver, featuring statement earrings and a striking cuff, underscoring her distinctive ability to merge contemporary allure with timeless elegance.

Speaking to press, Farhana remarked: “Being at the Venice Film Festival year after year is always such an honor, but this edition feels especially close to my heart. The energy on the red carpet, the incredible films being showcased, and the people you meet here make it unforgettable. Tonight I’m wearing a breathtaking creation by Atelier Zuhra, and I truly feel it’s the most beautiful outfit I’ve ever worn. The artistry and detail make me feel glamorous yet connected to the spirit of the festival. This is a moment I’ll cherish forever.”

As the festival spotlight shines on premieres such as Paolo Sorrentino’s La Grazia and Luca Guadagnino’s After the Hunt starring Julia Roberts and Ayo Edebiri, Farhana Bodi’s breakout red-carpet moment reaffirmed an undeniable truth: amidst the world’s most celebrated stars, it is often the unscripted personalities who leave the most indelible mark.

With Season 4 of Dubai Bling soon to debut, her presence in Venice offers the perfect preview of what audiences can expect, style, substance, and an unmissable cultural spark.

Explore a Limited Time Culinary Showcase across 6 IHCL properties in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, 30th August 2025: Step into the month as you celebrate the magic of the monsoon season with The Culinary Collective: Monsoon Edition, a week-long culinary showcase from 1st to 7th September 2025 across six iconic IHCL hotels in Bengaluru. Guests are invited to savour specially curated menus that blend seasonal ingredients with signature creations, offering an indulgent dining experience that captures the essence of the season.

For the very first time, six of Bangalore’s iconic dining destinations across Taj and Vivanta branded hotels of IHCL, will unite to offer an exclusive, prix fixe monsoon menu experience — curated with care, designed for the season, and priced to welcome all. This is a celebration of taste without compromise. Whether it’s a long, lingering lunch with a view of the lush greenery or an intimate dinner amidst tranquil surroundings – this edition of The Culinary Collective offers you the chance to explore some of the most loved dining experiences at a value never seen before.

The individual participating restaurants will bring forth culinary elegance through thoughtfully plated indulgence with their 3 and 4 course set menus which offer a wholesome culinary journey.

From the authentic Indian flavours at Paranda and Terracotta to the Asian specialities at Blue Ginger and Soi & Sake and the contemporary delights at The Trinity Square and Wink, each restaurant presents a unique menu crafted for the occasion. With dishes designed to comfort and inspire, the Monsoon Edition promises a memorable journey of taste and tradition.

Offer Details:

● Dates: 1st – 7th September 2025

● Featured Restaurants:

  • Blue Ginger, Taj West End Bengaluru
  • Paranda, Taj Yeshwantpur Bengaluru
  • Soi & Sake, Taj Bangalore, Bengaluru
  • The Trinity Square, Taj MG Road Bengaluru
  • Wink, Vivanta Bengaluru Residency Road
  • Terracotta, Vivanta Bengaluru Whitefield

Celebrate the season with flavours that evoke warmth, nostalgia, and indulgence.

Launch of “Fractured Wings of the Golden Bird”, a fiction by Former Chairman NSIC, Dr H P Kumar

A Book titled “Fractured Wings of the Golden Bird” was unveiled by Justice (Retd.) Shri M. M. Kumar, former Chief Justice of J&K High Court, ex-president of National Company Law Tribunal and ex- member of National Human Rights Commission at the Constitution Club on 27th August,2025, drawing attention from literary circles, civil service aspirants and prominent members of the public. The book authored by Dr. H.P. Kumar, Former Chairman NSIC, a Govt of India PSU, is a fictional novel which offers an imaginative yet thought-provoking portrayal of the Indian administrative landscape through the journey of an IAS couple navigating the complex realities of public service.

Set against the backdrop of India’s bureaucratic framework, the novel explores the emotional, ethical, and societal dimensions of governance. It raises pressing questions about the undesirable situation in which millions of young persons spend years of their prime life in preparing and competing for civil services every year with particular focus on IAS, with limited number of them succeeding, due to very few vacancies of around one thousand or so. This appeal of making an elite career in bureaucracy takes away productive time of lacs of youngsters which, otherwise, could be utilized to make their mark in other avenues needed by the country. It raises a poignant question: What is the cost of chasing the IAS dream? This book shines a light on that reality, urging us to rethink how we guide and empower our youth. The book challenges readers to reflect

on the broader societal impact of this phenomenon and the need to channel young talent into diverse, productive avenues. The book provides alternative model of employment creation in the rural and urban areas.

Penned with emotional depth and intellectual clarity, the book follows the journey of Satyanand and Mira, an idealistic IAS couple whose passion for serving the nation is tested by the intricate machinery of administration. Through their story, the author delves into the delicate balance between personal conviction and systemic constraints, offering readers a compelling narrative that is both intimate and expansive.

The book’s core message is clear: ethics and morality must be the foundation of a disciplined and prosperous society. Through imaginative storytelling and thought-provoking dialogue, the author calls for a renewed commitment to integrity, empathy, and purpose in public life.

Speaking at the launch, the Chief Guest remarked, “This book is not just a story—it is a conversation starter. It reminds us that even amidst fractured systems, there are individuals who strive to make the golden bird soar once again.”

Fractured Wings of the Golden Bird promises to engage readers, spark debate, and inspire a deeper understanding of the challenges and possibilities within India’s governance landscape.

At the launch event, the Chief Guest delivered a stirring address, praising the book’s relevance and literary depth saying – “This is not just a novel—it’s a mirror to our society. Through fiction, the author has captured truths that resonate with every citizen who has ever questioned the system or dreamed of changing it.”

On this occasion, Dr S.S.Acharya CMD, NSIC, Dr Ranjeet Mehta, CEO and Secretary General, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Dr J.S Juneja, Chairman, Global Projects and former CMD, NSIC also spoke and suggested that the youth should read this book for knowledge and making the career choice.

Saudi Falcon Breeders Auction 2025 Concludes with Sales Exceeding 13 Million Riyals

Riyadh:

The International Falcon Breeders Auction 2025, organized by the Saudi Falcons Club at its headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh, wrapped up after 21 days with total sales surpassing 13 million riyals.

Saudi Falcon Breeders Auction 2025

Waleed Al-Taweel, the official spokesperson for the Saudi Falcons Club, reported that 1,103 falcons were sold during the event, with 67 breeding farms from 23 countries participating, including 19 local farms. The auction showed strong growth compared to last year, with sales values up 23%, the number of falcons sold increasing by 27%, participating countries growing by 21%, and breeding farms rising by 20% – demonstrating the event’s continued expansion since its inception.

Al-Taweel highlighted that the auction featured exceptional falcons, including this year’s most expensive falcon – a “Gyr Pure Super White” that fetched 1.2 million riyals. He emphasized that the auction has established itself as a trusted platform bringing together top-tier breeders and falconers from Saudi Arabia and internationally, fostering knowledge exchange and creating new investment opportunities in this thriving sector.

The auction launched on August 5th, featuring local and international breeding farms in a highly competitive environment. The event included dedicated sections for breeding farms, falcon equipment suppliers, a “Future Falconer” pavilion, and interactive demonstrations by falcon breeders showcasing care and breeding techniques. This comprehensive approach made the auction a premier destination for falconry enthusiasts and professionals worldwide.

The Saudi Falcons Club’s season continues with a packed 122-day schedule of auctions, exhibitions, races, and championships. Upcoming events include the Saudi International Falcons and Hunting Exhibition (October 2-11), the Malwah Race (October 5-10), the Saudi Falcons Club Auction (October 1 – November 30), the Saudi Falcons Club Cup Championship (November 23-30), and the season finale – the King Abdulaziz Falcons Festival (December 25 – January 10, 2026). This diverse program aims to serve falconers, enthusiasts, and industry professionals both locally and internationally.

ET Leadership Excellence Award 2025 Conferred on ICAI President for Visionary Leadership and Innovation

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is proud to announce that its President, CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda, has been conferred the prestigious ET Leadership Excellence Award 2025 under the category Leadership in Professional Excellence. The honour was presented at a distinguished ceremony in New Delhi by acclaimed National Award-winning actor Shri Anupam Kher, in the presence of CA. Prasanna Kumar D, Vice-President, ICAI and Central Council Members of ICAI.

CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda has been a driving force behind several transformative initiatives at ICAI. As the leader of the Digital Accounting and Assurance Board, he spearheaded the launch of Forensic Accounting and Investigation Standards (FAIS), making ICAI a global pioneer in this field. Serving four terms as a Central Council Member, he played a pivotal role across multiple committees, consistently championing innovation and progress.

He has been instrumental in integrating Artificial Intelligence and advanced technologies into the profession to enhance efficiency and accuracy. His emphasis on work-life balance reflects his commitment to building an ecosystem that supports both professional excellence and personal well-being. Under his visionary leadership, ICAI has advanced in areas such as global collaborations, sustainability, youth empowerment, skill development and forensic accounting, driving change with innovation and purpose.

These remarkable accomplishments culminated in the prestigious ET Leadership Excellence Award 2025. Instituted by Bennett Coleman & Co. Ltd. (The Times of India Group), the award honours visionary leaders and institutions who embody excellence, trust, innovation, and transformative leadership, while setting new benchmarks that inspire progress in society and the economy.

Expressing his gratitude, CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda said, “This award is not just a recognition of my personal journey but a reflection of ICAI’s collective commitment to excellence, integrity, and nation-building. It inspires us to continue setting higher benchmarks in professional service and global leadership.”

This recognition stands as a testament to ICAI’s unwavering contribution to strengthening trust, upholding the highest standards of professional ethics, and fostering innovation in the accountancy profession, both nationally and internationally.
About ICAI

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Unveils CB125 Hornet and Shine 100 DX in a Mega Launch at Hyderabad

Hyderabad, August 30th, 2025: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) created a buzz in the City of Pearls with the grand launch of its latest two-wheeler offerings — the all-new Honda CB125 Hornet and the Honda Shine 100 DX. The Mega Launch Event was held at Nexus Mall, Kukatpally, Hyderabad, in the presence of Mr. Sunil Reddy, Zonal Head (Sales), HMSI, along with dealer partners, area sales & service managers, and customers.

Speaking on the occasion, HMSI highlighted its commitment to delivering cutting-edge design, advanced technology, and superior riding experiences tailored to the evolving aspirations of Indian customers. The Honda CB125 Hornet, designed for the next-gen riders, carries the youthful spirit to “Ride Your Rizz”. It comes packed with first-in-segment features such as golden USD front forks, a key-on-tank ignition system, USB charging port, and a 5-step adjustable mono-shock absorber for agile handling.

Adding to its sporty appeal, the CB125 Hornet features a signature twin-LED headlamp with DRLs, high-mounted turn indicators, and a 4.2-inch TFT display with Bluetooth-enabled Honda RoadSync for seamless navigation, calls, and SMS alerts.

Carrying forward the brand’s iconic commuter legacy, the Honda Shine 100 DX brings a refreshed, premium design tailored for daily riders. Key highlights include a newly styled headlamp with chrome garnishing, sculpted fuel tank with bold body graphics, an all-black engine & grab rail, and a chrome muffler cover. Its long, comfortable seat makes it the perfect everyday companion for both rider and pillion.

To further elevate convenience, the Shine 100 DX is equipped with a digital LCD instrument cluster that provides real-time mileage, distance-to-empty, and service reminders — ensuring an effortless and reliable commuting experience.

With these new launches, Honda reaffirms its commitment to offering products that blend style, performance, and practicality — strengthening its position in both the sporty and commuter motorcycle segments. Grand launch event organised by Kaara Productions.