boAt ushers in a new era of AI-Powered Smart Audio Devices built with Google Gemini

<div><br></div><div>New Crest AI platform fuses state-of-the-art boAt audio devices with hyper-personalized, voice-driven AI that can understand complex queries in real time</div><div><br></div><div><b>Mumbai</b>: Google Cloud and Imagine Marketing, the parent company of one of India's big audio and wearables brand <b>boAt</b>, are teaming up to bring AI first features built with Google Gemini to their next-generation ‘Crest AI’ lineup of smart audio devices.</div><div><br></div><div>Crest AI is boAt’s AI-powered platform for next-generation audio devices, built with Google Gemini to deliver voice-driven, conversational and personalized experiences. The Crest AI platform pushes AI innovation and everyday utility to the next level by fusing state of the art technology with highly responsive AI. Designed to redefine how consumers interact with their devices, the integration of Gemini Live will enable hyper-personalized, voice-driven experiences. Users will be able to engage in natural, flowing conversations with their Crest AI-powered devices, bridging the gap between traditional hardware and ambient AI computing.</div><div><br></div><div>This collaboration aims to democratize access to premium AI features for millions of users across India’s diverse dialects. By utilizing Google Cloud's robust infrastructure and the multimodal capabilities of Gemini Live on Gemini Enterprise Agent Platform, boAt’s Crest AI devices will act as intelligent companions capable of understanding regional nuances, context, and complex queries in real-time.</div><div><br></div><div>“Voice is the most natural way for humans to communicate, and we believe it will also become the most natural way to interact with AI. At boAt, we have a unique opportunity because we already have millions of devices sitting in people’s ears. With Crest AI, our ambition is to bring useful AI experiences directly to this surface and make them accessible to millions of consumers through devices that are affordable and part of their everyday lives. This is our first step, and we will continue to make the experience richer and more capable as we learn and build.” said <b>Sameer Mehta, Co-founder & Executive Director, boAt</b>.</div><div><br></div><div>“Our mission at boAt has always been to build something bold and impactful, making cutting-edge technology accessible to everyone. By integrating Google's Gemini into our Crest AI devices, we are taking a massive leap forward. We are moving beyond basic voice assistants to create intelligent, conversational agents for general voice queries, device control, music playback, productivity, language translation and FAQ support. Partnering with Google Cloud allows us to scale this vision and redefine the future of ambient computing in India and beyond,” said <b>Gaurav Nayyar, CEO of boAt</b>.</div><div><br></div><div>Crest AI devices will also be integrated with Google Workspace, transforming boAt audio devices into hands-free productivity companions that enable users to manage their Gmail, Google Tasks and Google Calendar through voice. Crest Translate enables real-time, two-way translation to help users communicate across languages, while Crest Ask brings conversational intelligence to everyday listening, enabling natural interactions that understand context and help users learn, ideate, ask questions or simply chat. Through the integration with Gmail and Google Calendar, for example, a user can say, “Help me respond to that email,” or “Schedule a meeting for me.”</div><div><br></div><div><b>Sashi Sreedharan, Managing Director, Google Cloud India</b> said, "boAt is one of India's foremost wearable brands, and their push to bring cutting-edge AI to consumers is exactly the kind of innovation we want to support. Voice and vernacular are the next frontier for AI in India, and Gemini Live helps make that possible. With Google Cloud's infrastructure underpinning them, boAt can scale this to millions of users across India."</div>

boAt ushers in a new era of AI-Powered Smart Audio Devices built with Google Gemini

New Crest AI platform fuses state-of-the-art boAt audio devices with hyper-personalized, voice-driven AI that can understand complex queries...

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WITH TAJ MOUNT KUSUR RESORT & VILLAS, LONAVALA DEVELOPED BY AMAVI

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0VgLlfouRoKx3i151bjS42fHQI4z6CckYuDzEujrQLKxDJoTsOkEYCvYfz7ucPakKwgoxxn-4CkmZW4zASFKeTdb59R02uwfXhwzH3hdevO_r5UYTF8PCb8EFBzXKZX_4ovh0Vl4vUH2M8xkrnXNOzPuvuwdCaTaVcyY3zgLHZYx8_t6lxkGttEfJ" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0VgLlfouRoKx3i151bjS42fHQI4z6CckYuDzEujrQLKxDJoTsOkEYCvYfz7ucPakKwgoxxn-4CkmZW4zASFKeTdb59R02uwfXhwzH3hdevO_r5UYTF8PCb8EFBzXKZX_4ovh0Vl4vUH2M8xkrnXNOzPuvuwdCaTaVcyY3zgLHZYx8_t6lxkGttEfJ" width="400"> </a> </div></div><div>TAJ FORAYS INTO LUXURY BRANDED VILLAS</div><div><br></div><div>MUMBAI: Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, announced the launch of Taj Mount Kusur Resort and Villas in Lonavala, Maharashtra. Developed in partnership with Amavi, India’s only hospitality-backed real estate brand, the project marks Taj’s entry into the luxury branded villa segment.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, IHCL,</b> said, “For over a century, Taj has defined luxury hospitality through its grand palaces, landmark city hotels, safaris and residences. Recognised as the World's Strongest Luxury Hotel Brand and India's Strongest Brand, Taj continues to strengthen its position at the forefront of the luxury hospitality sector. The launch of Taj Mount Kusur Resort & Villas marks our entry into the branded villa segment, broadening our portfolio to address evolving consumer preferences while bringing the trust, service excellence and legacy of the brand to a new category of luxury real estate.”</div><div><br></div><div>Spread across a 34-acre estate in the Western Ghats, Taj Mount Kusur Resort and Villas is an integrated luxury development comprising 32 branded villas and a 100-key Taj resort. The project offers panoramic views of the surrounding lake and valley. Inspired by contemporary barn-style architecture, featuring expansive glass façades, spacious verandahs, the villas naturally flow into the surrounding landscape. The development includes a two-acre Wabi-Sabi Central Park inspired by the Japanese philosophy of embracing simplicity and harmony with nature. Residents can enjoy the Miyawaki forest, nature trails, zen gardens, stargazing decks, golf putting greens, a fitness lawn and multi-purpose sports courts. The integrated project also includes Club Amavi offering wellness and recreation facilities, banquet and dining venues.</div><div><br></div><div>The branded villas will be offered for sale integrated into the resort inventory through a lease-back programme. Residents will have access to Taj’s renowned hospitality services, including concierge assistance, housekeeping, maintenance and the leisure and wellness amenities of the resort.</div><div><span><br></span></div><div><span><b>Apurv Kumar, Managing Director, Clarks Group of Hotels and Founder, Amavi</b>, said, “Second homes are bought to create more time — time with family, time in nature and time for oneself. Yet too often, they become another responsibility. At Amavi, our purpose is to change that. Taj Mount Kusur Resort and Villas brings together the privacy and permanence of a home with the care and service of Taj hospitality. Rooted in the Western Ghats, it also reflects our belief that meaningful development must respect the land and create value for the communities around it. We want Mount Kusur to be not merely a property people own, but a place they return to, belong to and come to.”</span></div><div><br></div><div><b>Sachin Agrawal and Bajrang Bararia, Founders, Amavi</b>, said, “With Taj Mount Kusur Resort and Villas, Amavi has sought to create a residential offering that combines design, nature and hospitality. Luxury consumers today are increasingly seeking experiences that combine the privacy of a second home with the services and assurance of a hospitality brand. The project's low-density planning, integrated amenities and professionally managed services are intended to provide homeowners with the privacy of villa ownership and the convenience of a luxury resort. Amavi is pleased to partner with IHCL in bringing this vision to life under the Taj brand.”</div><div><br></div><div>Located between Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala is one of Maharashtra’s most established leisure destinations. Known for its scenic valleys, lakes and waterfalls, the hill station continues to attract leisure travellers, wellness seekers and second-home buyers.</div>

WITH TAJ MOUNT KUSUR RESORT & VILLAS, LONAVALA DEVELOPED BY AMAVI

TAJ FORAYS INTO LUXURY BRANDED VILLAS MUMBAI: Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, announced the l...

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Narayana Health SRCC Children's Hospital Crosses 175+ Paediatric Epilepsy Surgeries

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgw6jSUYpuFnOjf5CbzVh7zuxLsAZfvgUhXkqrcKuZBdtDNT7QHtbSdfmEcc8LruilpwrAc8lPcYfXbEm1hEFR5xHkDX47Aqg1KEytVWRAGhHPhYhNF73BYlRQPBQSV9A6n-iRDgVqGpEn2L0rNh_uJztOywj0iibkRyov7c320ofXq-ujODkgJSp-3" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgw6jSUYpuFnOjf5CbzVh7zuxLsAZfvgUhXkqrcKuZBdtDNT7QHtbSdfmEcc8LruilpwrAc8lPcYfXbEm1hEFR5xHkDX47Aqg1KEytVWRAGhHPhYhNF73BYlRQPBQSV9A6n-iRDgVqGpEn2L0rNh_uJztOywj0iibkRyov7c320ofXq-ujODkgJSp-3" width="400"> </a> </div><br></div><div><b>Mumbai: Narayana Health SRCC Children's Hospital</b>, has completed 175+ paediatric epilepsy On Track to 200 surgeries through India’s only dedicated programme for drug-resistant epilepsy in children, and the country’s largest such programme. Among patients who have undergone curative epilepsy surgery at the hospital, 87% are seizure-free at a minimum of one year follow-up.</div><div><br></div><div>The milestone comes against a backdrop of significant unmet need in India. Epilepsy affects an estimated 0.8% of India’s paediatric and adolescent population. A majority of people with epilepsy develop the condition during childhood. Around one-third of children with epilepsy are known to have drug-resistant epilepsy, for whom timely referral to a specialised epilepsy centre becomes critical. India is estimated to have 2–3 million people living with drug-resistant epilepsy, with approximately one million potentially eligible for epilepsy surgery. Yet only about 2 in every 1,000 eligible patients currently undergo surgery, highlighting the substantial treatment gap that continues to exist.</div><div><br></div><div>The Epilepsy programme in Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital was started by a dedicated team of doctors - Dr. Anaita Udwadia Hegde, Head, Neurosciences Department, Dr. Pradnya Gadgil, Senior Consultant Paediatric Neurology and Dr Saurav Samantray, Senior Consultant Paediatric Neurosurgeon with a vision to develop quaternary pediatric neurology subspecialities in India.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Dr. Anaita Udwadia Hegde, Head, Neurosciences Department,  Narayana Health SRCC Children's Hospital</b>, said: “The need for comprehensive tertiary paediatric neuroscience services in India has never been greater. Epilepsy is among the most prevalent neurological disorders of childhood, yet access to specialised care remains limited. Complex neurology care cannot be delivered effectively without the backing of a team and infrastructural setup. It requires strong institutional programs where multidisciplinary teams work together supported by specialized infrastructure and a work ethic of protocol-based management.”</div><div><br></div><div><b>Dr. Pradnya Gadgil, Head, Complex Paediatric Epilepsy Program, Narayana Health SRCC Children's Hospital</b>, said: “Uncontrolled childhood epilepsy is a very difficult scenario: apart from frequent seizures which can’t be predicted, they also pose risk to life and limb. The ongoing uncontrolled epilepsy and multiple anti-seizure medications also affect neurodevelopment significantly. These children often surgically remediable epilepsy- where surgery can potentially provide seizure freedom. Identifying them early through meticulous pre-surgical evaluation is critical. Other children could benefit through disease modifying epilepsy surgeries.”</div><div><br></div><div><b>Dr. Saurav Samantray, Senior Consultant, Paediatric Neurosurgery, Narayana Health SRCC Children's Hospital</b>, said: “Epilepsy surgery means a group of highly specialized neurosurgical procedures - individually selected for each child. Some aim for seizure freedom by removing, disconnecting or minimally invasively ablating the tissue responsible for seizures; others aim to reduce severe seizure burden when cure is unlikely. In appropriately selected children, the benefits can extend beyond seizure cure and control. Often the neurocognitive functioning improves when epilepsy is cured or better controlled. So, the benefits of epilepsy surgery transcend beyond the obvious seizure control. These outcomes are deliverable only from an experienced multidisciplinary epilepsy team, not an individual neurosurgeon alone.”</div><div>The following cases from the programme illustrate the range of what timely surgical evaluation can achieve:</div><div>A six-year-old boy, Rohan (name changed), had developed daily drop attacks at 2 years of age. Over the next two to three years, he lost the ability to read, write, and interact with other children. After multiple medications failed to control his seizures, he underwent a corpus callosotomy. His drop attacks stopped the very next day. Over the following months, with physiotherapy and occupational therapy, he began reciting poems and writing letters and numbers again.</div><div><br></div><div>Pratik (name changed), now in his late twenties, had lived with violent nocturnal seizures since he was three-and-a-half, episodes that woke him and his family through the night for 23 years despite evaluations at multiple centres. A fresh assessment at SRCC identified a congenital brain malformation that had gone undetected for over two decades. He underwent surgery to remove it and had no seizures from the very first night after. Nearly six months on, he remains seizure-free and is back to leading a normal life.</div><div><br></div><div>Mithila (name changed), a 10-year-old girl from Ratnagiri had daily seizures since infancy, caused by extensive brain damage sustained before birth, and had been told by other centres that little could be done. She underwent a hemispherectomy, disconnecting the damaged hemisphere from the healthy brain, despite the risk of worsening her existing right-sided weakness. Three months on, she is completely seizure-free and, with rehabilitation, is walking independently and speaking for the first time.</div><div><br></div><div>Raj (name changed), 12, had a brain injury at birth that initially didn’t stop him from achieving his developmental milestones- he was even playing football by age four. But worsening seizures and a deteriorating EEG left him nearly bedbound and non-verbal. His surgery was delayed nearly a year due to low awareness of the treatment options. Following corpus callosotomy, his drop attacks stopped completely; six months on, he is walking independently and speaking in sentences.</div><div><br></div><div>Sonam (name changed), a five-and-a-half-year-old girl had daily “laughing seizures” caused by a rare hypothalamic hamartoma, a lesion deep in the brain carrying a high risk of serious complications if accessed by traditional open neurosurgical techniques. She underwent stereotactic radiofrequency ablation, a minimally invasive procedure, and was awake and feeding within hours with no complications. Her seizures stopped completely.</div><div><br></div><div>With 175+ paediatric epilepsy surgeries performed in 3.5 years, the experience reinforces a simple message: epilepsy should not be allowed to remain an unspoken condition, particularly when a child continues to have seizures despite medication. In a highly specialised field with few centres in India treating children with drug-resistant epilepsy, this represents significant experience across complex cases. Early recognition, appropriate referral and access to specialised care can be the difference between years of uncontrolled seizures and a child returning to learning, development and everyday life.</div>

Narayana Health SRCC Children's Hospital Crosses 175+ Paediatric Epilepsy Surgeries

Mumbai: Narayana Health SRCC Children's Hospital , has completed 175+ paediatric epilepsy On Track to 200 surgeries through ...

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NODWIN Gaming announces SpaceFest; India's first dedicated Space, Science & Sci-fi festival

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5HaQjzrZIk1yoSg44XD7wtIdqTtXG4ig62oK_dDBslWG6gsAdm29OIZXZdxEqL5LEubPdjasguw7NVf6iLzldLPJASl2zR56L--HAcvQsFWlRD7C__5aZfp9pMBCaTn9RxAYjN_jSX46YiWsg3uGIfugkd9bpunO68fyomYS_gJbx6blL_ST6INzG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5HaQjzrZIk1yoSg44XD7wtIdqTtXG4ig62oK_dDBslWG6gsAdm29OIZXZdxEqL5LEubPdjasguw7NVf6iLzldLPJASl2zR56L--HAcvQsFWlRD7C__5aZfp9pMBCaTn9RxAYjN_jSX46YiWsg3uGIfugkd9bpunO68fyomYS_gJbx6blL_ST6INzG" width="400"> </a> </div></div><div>NODWIN Gaming announces SpaceFest; India's first dedicated Space, Science & Sci-fi festival, backed by Maharashtra Government</div><div><br></div><div><b>Mumbai: NODWIN Gaming</b>, a global leader in new-age youth entertainment, gaming and esports, announced the launch of SpaceFest during the press conference held at Trident, Mumbai. Backed by the Government of Maharashtra, it will be India’s first large-scale event dedicated to space, science, innovation and space-inspired pop culture, aiming to create a platform that brings knowledge and entertainment together.</div><div><br></div><div>The conference was attended by eminent guests including Minister Dr. Uday Samant, Industries, Investment and Services Department, Dr. P Anbalagan, IAS, Principal Secretary (Industries, Investment & Services) at Government of Maharashtra, Deependra Singh Kushwah, IAS, CEO of MIDC Mumbai alongwith Aarti Harbhajanka, Co-Founder and MD, Primus Partners India and Akshat Rathee, Co-founder and Managing Director of NODWIN Gaming, who conceptualised the IP. </div><div><b>Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for India’s space economy and supported by the Government of Maharashtra, SpaceFest </b>aims to be a flagship platform celebrating space exploration, innovation and discovery, while enabling Maharashtra’s space-tech startups to showcase innovations, forge partnerships and connect with global industry leaders and investors.</div><div><br></div><div>Guest of honor, <b>Uday Samant</b>, at the press conference said, "For me, space was always associated with missions like Chandrayaan and the achievements of ISRO and NASA. But Space Fest has made me realise the immense interest and potential this sector holds, especially among India’s students and youth. I am proud that Maharashtra is taking the lead with this initiative. I propose that Space Fest be held in February, giving us more time to create employment opportunities and strengthen the ecosystem. Our vision is to position Maharashtra not only as a leader in India’s space sector, but as a global space hub. The space economy has the potential to generate lakhs of crores, and we are committed to bringing a significant share of this opportunity to Maharashtra. We will take every step necessary to make this vision a reality.”</div><div><br></div><div>Key dignitary <b>Dr. P Anbalagan IAS Principal Secretary (Industries, Investment & Services) at Government of Maharashtra</b>, unveiled the SpaceFest launch video and expressed his support towards the initiative. He mentioned,, "Nearly 25% of India’s aerospace, defence and navigation systems are manufactured in Maharashtra, and the state is also the first to have an independent aerospace policy that includes space technology. With India’s space-tech sector currently valued at around $8.5–9 billion and projected to reach $100 billion by 2040, the opportunity is significant. For any sector to grow, it needs the right ecosystem of stakeholders, agencies, international institutions, R&D and capital. Space Fest is not just a three-day event; it is the beginning of a larger journey for Maharashtra. It will help nurture new talent and create opportunities for young people who are passionate about the space sector. It is our responsibility to guide them, provide the right exposure and help them build careers in this growing industry.”</div><div><br></div><div><b>Deependra Singh Kushwah, IAS, CEO of MIDC Mumbai,</b> further added, “As a state, we want to position Maharashtra at the centre of India’s growing space ecosystem. We want to build a strong ecosystem where space-tech startups can grow, scale and access unique opportunities. MIDC is also driving this transformation by supporting the sector’s growth. Our focus is on better policies, stronger startup support and a robust innovation ecosystem. This is part of our larger vision, to create an environment where innovation and investment can thrive, and Maharashtra can emerge as a leading hub for the space sector.”</div><div><br></div><div>Sharing his excitement about the launch, <b>Akshat Rathee, Co-founder and Managing Director, NODWIN Gaming</b>, expressed, “I truly believe India’s time has come. When I met Dr. P. Anbalagan and shared this idea, it immediately resonated with our shared vision of creating opportunities for young Indians to explore and build careers in the space sector. As the ecosystem grows, we will see more industries join, investments increase, and our young talent gain exposure and opportunities. Ultimately, this is about enabling our young people to shine alongside the nation’s growth. That has been the idea behind this initiative, and I am grateful to everyone here for supporting this mission. I am confident that we will see significant progress in India’s space ecosystem in the years ahead.”</div><div><br></div><div><b>Aarti Harbhajanka, Co-Founder and MD, Primus Partners India</b> said, “I am delighted to be part of this mission. Space is no longer limited to government agencies, it is now a growing ecosystem that includes startups, entrepreneurs, students, AI, robotics, deep tech and much more. This is especially significant for Maharashtra. As a knowledge partner, we are committed to supporting the initiative and helping turn ambitious ideas into action. What excites me most is the possibility that 10–15 years from now, today’s children will look back at this moment and remember it as the beginning of something truly historic.”  </div><div><br></div><div>The initiative by NODWIN Gaming, with Primus Partners as its Knowledge Partner, will offer immersive experiences, keynote addresses and panel discussions from leading figures in both the Indian and global space ecosystems, major policy announcements, international partnerships and MoU signings, and showcases from pioneering space-tech startups. The festival will also feature dedicated zones celebrating sci-fi, gaming, and space-inspired entertainment, alongside celebrity appearances, fan engagement experiences, investor interactions, student-focused programs, hands-on workshops, hardware exhibits, aerospace technology demonstrations, and exclusive networking opportunities connecting industry leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. </div><div><br></div><div>For the purpose to encourage students to explore more in this field, a dedicated school outreach programme and college-level innovation challenge will be conducted to lead-up to the main SpaceFest event. NASA’s recent invitation to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to participate in its ambitious plans for a permanent human presence on the Moon underscores India’s growing stature as a global space power. This, combined with the Government’s progressive policy opening the sector to private participation, creates the perfect backdrop for SpaceFest to bring together the people, ideas and technologies shaping the country’s next chapter in space. The inaugural edition will be held at Nehru Science Centre, with the Government of Maharashtra also planning to install new permanent exhibits at the venue as part of the initiative. Maha Government is also planning to visit international space-tech events to engage with global industry stakeholders and showcase the state’s space-tech vision and ambitions.</div>

NODWIN Gaming announces SpaceFest; India's first dedicated Space, Science & Sci-fi festival

NODWIN Gaming announces SpaceFest; India's first dedicated Space, Science & Sci-fi festival, backed by Maharashtra Gover...

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Aadha Bhaiya or Achha Bhaiya? Arbaaz Khan Has the Answer in boAt's New Rakhi Film

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEinvGXtoCEoDjXA4x_RrO_dH7OzK-GJPYwBsybgSGA7PUYGEp38X9kwpHO6KYtyLsnxdPdCgNYL4smIbxaV-ue1eyrWbCHuBc2pzIiDylr0QIP8ZpAnxwpI27DpvPuiGSAJ9Imequ5lkkoOMDxgYCWTvTKn4PI8w05iSm_8j5B-AkPyA9a32hoS4FRS" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEinvGXtoCEoDjXA4x_RrO_dH7OzK-GJPYwBsybgSGA7PUYGEp38X9kwpHO6KYtyLsnxdPdCgNYL4smIbxaV-ue1eyrWbCHuBc2pzIiDylr0QIP8ZpAnxwpI27DpvPuiGSAJ9Imequ5lkkoOMDxgYCWTvTKn4PI8w05iSm_8j5B-AkPyA9a32hoS4FRS" width="400"> </a> </div></div><div><br></div><div>New campaign film has Arbaaz Khan - Bollywood's original "bhai” ka bhai - call out every tired "Bhai" cliché before landing the real answer: order boAt on Blinkit</div><div><br></div><div>Campaign Link: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DcYSEc9zPiH/?igsi=MXE0bWJ1aWZqNm4wMw== </div><div><br></div><div><b>Mumbai:</b> Ahead of Raksha Bandhan on August 28, <b>boAt</b>, India’s audio and wearables brand, has joined hands with quick-commerce platform Blinkit and <b>actor-producer Arbaaz Khan</b> for a new festive campaign film. Gently poking fun at the idea of the nation’s favourite “Bhai,” the film flips the narrative, leaving audiences to discover what it really takes to be the best bhai. </div><div><br></div><div>Shot in a mock-documentary format, the film has Arbaaz sit down, mic in hand, to break down the "art" of being Bollywood’s all-time favourite Bhai: the 1 a.m. tweets, the practiced one-liners, the exaggerated hero-style swagger, the borrowed swagger poses that mistake attitude for affection. The joke lands harder because of who's delivering it. Arbaaz doesn't just play at being a "Bhai" on screen; he knowingly riffs on the "universal bhai of the nation" trope Bollywood is famously known for, a wink the film leans into directly when Arbaaz turns to camera and says, "Main bhai ka bhai hoon," before delivering the campaign's real punchline: don't be aadhe bhaiya, be achhe bhaiya.</div><div><br></div><div>That's where the satire gives way to substance. All the posturing, the film argues, is no substitute for actually being there for your sibling. This Rakhi, being a good brother is as simple as opening the Blinkit app and ordering a thoughtful boAt gift, delivered to the doorstep in minutes. The film closes on the campaign's rallying line: "This Rakhi, gift boAt on Blinkit and make the bhai-behen bond stronger. Haina boAt aasaan?"</div><div><br></div><div>Commenting on the campaign film, <b>boAt</b> Spokesperson, said, “Every year around Rakhi, brothers love talking a big game about being the best 'Bhai' - the swagger, the one-liners, the dramatic gestures. Arbaaz plays on that so well precisely because he's grown up around exactly that larger-than-life 'Bhai' image, and that self-aware humor is what makes the film work. But our message is simple: being a good bhai isn't about the performance; it's about showing up. With Blinkit, that can now happen easily, and with a boAt gift that your sister will actually want to keep.”</div><div><br></div><div>The campaign will roll out across boAt and Blinkit's social channels in the lead-up to Raksha Bandhan, positioning boAt's wide range of audio devices, smartwatches and wearables as go-to Rakhi gifting options, delivered at your doorstep.</div><div><br></div><div>The film showcases the boAt Rockerz 480 headphones and the Chrome Iris smartwatch, part of the brand's wider range of wireless earbuds, smartwatches and portable audio devices, all available for quick delivery via Blinkit as well as on boAt's own retail channels, making last-minute Rakhi gifting effortless for siblings across the country.</div><div><br></div><div>The film was conceptualised and created in-house by boAt, with Dryft handling the production. <b>Raihan Muhimtule directed</b> the film, with <b>Deepika Goyal as the Executive Producer.</b></div>

Aadha Bhaiya or Achha Bhaiya? Arbaaz Khan Has the Answer in boAt's New Rakhi Film

New campaign film has Arbaaz Khan - Bollywood's original "bhai” ka bhai - call out every tired "Bhai" cliché ...

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The Body Shop Celebrates Raksha Bandhan with Limited-Edition Velvet Fig & Pistachio and Ajwa Date & Honey Collections

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh1TcSHNq2WK7SUO-dB2dhExuu1MtrM0E-AF8kqM-hIF6CYDh_TjYdfGX_ceLjLfHROwKX67mGdVerpazVeu2B58faamL3sYt0OmMStkyDDfdGWvMs28krTuyC67QgIoiyb-tvbDN40ex8QGLPnJRbAQuxrptenoDn75grBzQorP_ZNBd7SWpvp9cl2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh1TcSHNq2WK7SUO-dB2dhExuu1MtrM0E-AF8kqM-hIF6CYDh_TjYdfGX_ceLjLfHROwKX67mGdVerpazVeu2B58faamL3sYt0OmMStkyDDfdGWvMs28krTuyC67QgIoiyb-tvbDN40ex8QGLPnJRbAQuxrptenoDn75grBzQorP_ZNBd7SWpvp9cl2" width="400"> </a> </div></div><div>The British-born ethical beauty brand, The Body Shop, introduces limited-edition gourmand Bodycare collections alongside Create Your Own Gift Boxes, making festive gifting more personal than ever.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Mumbai: </b>The British-born ethical beauty brand, <b>The Body Shop</b> is celebrating Raksha Bandhan with its limited-edition Velvet Fig & Pistachio and Ajwa Date & Honey collections, alongside personalized Create Your Own Gift Boxes. Bringing together indulgent gourmand-inspired fragrances and nourishing Bodycare, the festive offering provides thoughtful gifting options to celebrate the bond between siblings.</div><div><br></div><div>The Create Your Own Gift Boxes, available exclusively at The Body Shop’s Exclusive Brand Outlets, allow customers to curate personalized hampers with their favourite Skincare, Bodycare and Haircare products. The boxes are available in two festive designs with Happy Rakhi tags available at select Exclusive Brand Outlets where relevant.</div><div><br></div><div>Adding to the festive offering, The Body Shop has also expanded its Haircare portfolio with Rosemary Hair Oil and Almond Hair Oil, lightweight, non-sticky formulations crafted for Indian hair concerns including thinning, breakage, frizz and damage. Combining nature-inspired ingredients with modern sensorial care, the new hair oils turn traditional hair oiling into an easy self-care ritual.</div><div><br></div><div>Available for a limited period, the Velvet Fig & Pistachio and Ajwa Date & Honey collections will be exclusively retailed through The Body Shop India's owned channels, including its stores and website, as well as on Nykaa.</div><div><br></div><div>The Rosemary Hair Oil and Almond Hair Oil are now available across <b>The Body Shop</b> stores and online channels in India.</div>

The Body Shop Celebrates Raksha Bandhan with Limited-Edition Velvet Fig & Pistachio and Ajwa Date & Honey Collections

The British-born ethical beauty brand, The Body Shop, introduces limited-edition gourmand Bodycare collections alongside Create ...

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Mission Journalism Epaper - 24 August to 30 August 2026

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjUfNgt2qaWcuBowqvQFPvXBUdG4zEgGH6YL-NZX2Mz6voFahdyQyK4GeR6cvybvsURoK9uvSDdFUSFReg9wuYiewYzk0AQmVnM3BEK3psra5fOn5_x1SJp4cJ1vr7AfnJ1BxNKmJ0BQF0IcQM_z8S8RgJj_ZTZRkYNuL3_DqjDSlaJ-ykiAB6e1sD8" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjUfNgt2qaWcuBowqvQFPvXBUdG4zEgGH6YL-NZX2Mz6voFahdyQyK4GeR6cvybvsURoK9uvSDdFUSFReg9wuYiewYzk0AQmVnM3BEK3psra5fOn5_x1SJp4cJ1vr7AfnJ1BxNKmJ0BQF0IcQM_z8S8RgJj_ZTZRkYNuL3_DqjDSlaJ-ykiAB6e1sD8" width="400"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhX2bR4PG6FTiSp6FOGJ2TBaT-ul0RMrAb5U7dT7VUCY3PPTOhsznpQaNmS31YFOiD4jVsqQdtjSeGlnTALihhCkPEoL8UIq46cw5hdkCTK9enp3WzF04psbECoAWBm5t_Jk3FYOfFcX87KFdTFuzqhzGfPci-EUHVEMT9u-5zx3XtHjlmctDA6MVYg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhX2bR4PG6FTiSp6FOGJ2TBaT-ul0RMrAb5U7dT7VUCY3PPTOhsznpQaNmS31YFOiD4jVsqQdtjSeGlnTALihhCkPEoL8UIq46cw5hdkCTK9enp3WzF04psbECoAWBm5t_Jk3FYOfFcX87KFdTFuzqhzGfPci-EUHVEMT9u-5zx3XtHjlmctDA6MVYg" width="400"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjMQPtnEYc-cYD7Qbock5i07gg43pOf7i3cFC8nXEsuIgE4c-SB_WThEHXTWla35Cc_8UT2RsTajhY1In33gi_XOcYd5BDcL0EOP0yG29WPQmKUB5eIWVR87DY3EKi3glvKd-pWa5htuKemNizTkAw2AjrEg6qnZx6sce-wTjS1qOaSlS2q9TVk2WQR" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjMQPtnEYc-cYD7Qbock5i07gg43pOf7i3cFC8nXEsuIgE4c-SB_WThEHXTWla35Cc_8UT2RsTajhY1In33gi_XOcYd5BDcL0EOP0yG29WPQmKUB5eIWVR87DY3EKi3glvKd-pWa5htuKemNizTkAw2AjrEg6qnZx6sce-wTjS1qOaSlS2q9TVk2WQR" width="400"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7HE_-MzN917_8PuJWawhs4u1VWqd3prQKlNL_g5MERapTGSQ0AZcnk5EmhI2q-ubk1A2BzArirHVph8zG5hI5sz-YTgtWD1Gn77ZJuQ-pS6PMeIAzLbBvSRr-IZ0M_qMIRVbaTxbcMokZsk2cJkWtYVA1lWBjMdOgxkne_6hki7dtrYKhnaTDyRMZ" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7HE_-MzN917_8PuJWawhs4u1VWqd3prQKlNL_g5MERapTGSQ0AZcnk5EmhI2q-ubk1A2BzArirHVph8zG5hI5sz-YTgtWD1Gn77ZJuQ-pS6PMeIAzLbBvSRr-IZ0M_qMIRVbaTxbcMokZsk2cJkWtYVA1lWBjMdOgxkne_6hki7dtrYKhnaTDyRMZ" width="400"> </a> </div></div>Mission Journalism Epaper - 24 August to 30 August 2026

Mission Journalism Epaper - 24 August to 30 August 2026

Mission Journalism Epaper - 24 August to 30 August 2026

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Kala Samvad’s 4th One-Day Group Art Exhibition Concludes on a Grand Note at Taj Art Gallery

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMRbWai3RwQuDthDS2jt6s2pnYy392EAEjU8Vlg8nx0shSn4cgDCAO-BAAgAmWpWHZlU_M76HKex7pOPuPfB5lL-Bbjg_Ui-4HnB62H3DknynNksX9zHvHuv8Pucenvii8SpMfRa6hc6xCcu74kenwjEdrxn238iCw0aM2G3GupVGiG4qucCAwBmt-" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMRbWai3RwQuDthDS2jt6s2pnYy392EAEjU8Vlg8nx0shSn4cgDCAO-BAAgAmWpWHZlU_M76HKex7pOPuPfB5lL-Bbjg_Ui-4HnB62H3DknynNksX9zHvHuv8Pucenvii8SpMfRa6hc6xCcu74kenwjEdrxn238iCw0aM2G3GupVGiG4qucCAwBmt-" width="400"> </a> </div><br></div><div><b>Mumbai: </b>The 4th One-Day Group Art Exhibition by Kala Samvad concluded successfully on August 21, 2026, at the prestigious Taj Art Gallery, The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, bringing together 23 talented artists and an impressive gathering of distinguished guests, art lovers, professionals and cultural personalities.</div><div><br></div><div><b>The exhibition was organised by Rajkumar Sharma, Founder, Kala Samvad</b>. Nandkishor Thorat (MFA) served as Curator, while Harshit R. Sharma developed the concept and creative framework, and Jagdish P. Purohit oversaw the event.</div><div><br></div><div><b>The exhibition was formally inaugurated by Chief Guest H.E. Aliaksandr Matsukou, Consul General of the Republic of Belarus in Mumbai, in the distinguished presence of Guest of Honour Dr. Vijay G. Kalantri, Chairman, World Trade Center Mumbai; President, All India Association of Industries (AIAI); and Honorary Consul General of Uzbekistan.</b></div><div><br></div><div>The event was graced by several eminent personalities, including Padma Shri Premjit Baria, Eminent Artist from Diu; Adi H. Jehangir, Chairman, Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai; Devesh Mathur, Chief Operating Officer, HSBC Bangladesh; IRS Rajesh Dhabre, Commissioner of Customs – Madras & Bombay, Ministry of Finance, Government of India; IRS Prashant Patil, Additional Director, Ministry of Finance, Government of India; and Prof. G. G. Waghmare, Former Director, Directorate of Art, Government of Maharashtra.</div><div><br></div><div>Other distinguished guests included Dr. Uttam V. Jain, Member, Central Board of Film Certification, Mumbai; Jagdish P. Purohit, Chairman, India Press, Mumbai; and Prof. Hemant Samant, Eminent Journalist & Translator.</div><div><br></div><div>The exhibition featured the works of Padma Shri Premjit Baria, Padma Shri Achyut Palav, Dr. Vishalli Dongrie, Debolina Saha, Nandkishor Thorat, Yashica Dhabre, Madhavi Joshi, Nanda Pathak, Sushil N. Ghumbre (Kaka), Ganesh A. Honmukhe, Bansu Shah Sompura, Kashish Raj Chandra, Reena M. Shah, Reena Jain Khated, Harsha, Sapna Kedia, Nitu Lakhan Singh, Riyaa, Marriyum Assi, Pravinchandra Sarawade, Durva Chhabria, Pradeep J. Rane, and Khatri Bashir Ahmed.</div><div><br></div><div>The evening programme was further honoured by the presence of Padma Shri Uday Vishwanath Deshpande, renowned Mallakhamb Guru; Prof. Rajiv Mishra, Principal, Sir J. J. College of Architecture, University of Mumbai; and Dr. Amjadkhan A. Pathan, Chairman, ASANAJ Healthcare Education & Research Foundation, Mumbai.</div><div><br></div><div>The exhibition offered a vibrant platform for artists to showcase their creativity while connecting with collectors, art enthusiasts, professionals and members of the wider cultural community. The diverse artworks and interactions throughout the day created opportunities for meaningful dialogue, networking and artistic exchange.</div><div><br></div><div>The successful conclusion of the 4th edition reaffirmed Kala Samvad’s commitment to Artist Promotion, Artist Branding, Professional Networking and Cultural Exchange. The initiative continues to provide artists with opportunities to strengthen their visibility, build meaningful connections and present their work on prestigious platforms.</div><div><br></div><div>Kala Samvad extends its heartfelt gratitude to all the participating artists, esteemed dignitaries, guests, supporters, collaborators and the entire team for their valuable presence, trust and contribution in making the 4th One-Day Group Art Exhibition a grand success.</div>

Kala Samvad’s 4th One-Day Group Art Exhibition Concludes on a Grand Note at Taj Art Gallery

Mumbai: The 4th One-Day Group Art Exhibition by Kala Samvad concluded successfully on August 21, 2026, at the prestigious Taj Ar...

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IAI Unveils New Initiatives to Strengthen India’s Actuarial Profession and Announces 26th GCA & AGFA

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgvZzp0LPkRriYHUVi491I_LVXzx4DKjmyOlRddGt8cGFv3okhHuFkZqhpf9CLpZeePN60qjVCVMWvfjuVHJoXMprqDCDKkpNFWWDu1ekISnbGviTW_aTwQkywlEhypbp30UTin2v-95kOZXsi8cHm0cbF-Yez7cWBHKke7GTxwbTnsXRSOdRsizlcb" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgvZzp0LPkRriYHUVi491I_LVXzx4DKjmyOlRddGt8cGFv3okhHuFkZqhpf9CLpZeePN60qjVCVMWvfjuVHJoXMprqDCDKkpNFWWDu1ekISnbGviTW_aTwQkywlEhypbp30UTin2v-95kOZXsi8cHm0cbF-Yez7cWBHKke7GTxwbTnsXRSOdRsizlcb" width="400"> </a> </div></div><div><b>Mumbai</b>: The <b>Institute of Actuaries of India</b> (IAI), the statutory body established under the Actuaries Act, 2006, unveiled a series of initiatives to strengthen the actuarial profession and enhance its engagement with students, professionals, industry, policymakers and the wider public, as part of Actuaries Day 2026. </div><div><br></div><div>The event, which took place at the Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport, saw Dr. Debasish Prusty, Additional Secretary of the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, take the role of chief guest. Preeti Chandrashekhar, President of the IAI; Vice President Anurag Rastogi; Asha Murali, Honorary Secretary of the IAI; and Mike Lombardi, President of the International Actuarial Association (IAA), were also present. Kartikey Kandoi, FIAI, FIA, FCA. </div><div><br></div><div>Speaking at the event, <b>Preeti Chandrashekhar, President, Institute of Actuaries of India,</b> said,  “As India expands its safety nets and seeks long-term fiscal and financial sustainability, actuarial expertise becomes central to informed decision-making and public trust. Actuaries operate at the intersection of economics, finance, demography, and risk. We shape frameworks that protect livelihoods, strengthen institutions, and advance India's journey toward Viksit Bharat 2047 since today’s progress should not become tomorrow’s vulnerability. One profession that truly holds endless possibilities and infinite impact.” </div><div><br></div><div>As part of the celebrations, IAI launched its Brand Bible, establishing a unified framework for the Institute’s identity, messaging and communication. The Brand Bible brings together the principles and standards that will guide how IAI presents itself consistently across its stakeholders and communication platforms. </div><div><br></div><div>IAI also launched its Job Portal, a dedicated platform designed to connect actuarial professionals and talent with relevant career opportunities, while strengthening engagement between employers and the actuarial community. </div><div><br></div><div>The Institute further announced the 26th Global Conference of Actuaries (GCA) & Actuarial Global Forum of Actuaries (AGFA), which will bring together actuarial professionals, policymakers, industry leaders and global experts to discuss emerging trends, risks and opportunities shaping the profession and the wider financial ecosystem. </div><div><br></div><div>These initiatives reflect IAI’s continued efforts to strengthen the actuarial profession and its contribution across insurance, pensions, investments, risk management and other areas of India’s evolving financial and economic landscape.</div>

IAI Unveils New Initiatives to Strengthen India’s Actuarial Profession and Announces 26th GCA & AGFA

Mumbai : The Institute of Actuaries of India (IAI), the statutory body established under the Actuaries Act, 2006, unveiled a se...

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