Over the course of five episodes, the series received substantial poll responses, offering valuable insights into the aspirations and concerns of the design community. Safety measures emerged as the top priority for enhancing urban livability, followed by pedestrian-friendly streets and efficient public transport as key enablers. The most urgent need identified for cities was parks and green spaces, far surpassing other options like bike lanes and community centers—highlighting a strong public demand for ecological balance in urban planning.

Sustainability is a recurring theme throughout the series. Most participants (51%) stated that the design approach has the greatest impact on sustainability, surpassing the impact of materials or energy efficiency. Furthermore, 86% expressed a strong desire for more sessions focused on sustainable and innovative design practices. Looking ahead, 60% of respondents identified sustainable design as the single most important factor shaping the future of architecture, ranking it above smart technology and community-centered planning. When asked about priorities for the cities of tomorrow, 41% favored the creation of green and open spaces, followed closely by the need for climate-friendly infrastructure—underscoring a collective call for urban environments that balance growth with resilience and well-being.

Speaking on the success of the series, Shyam Motwani, Business Head – Locks & Architectural Solutions, Godrej Enterprises Group, said, “Through VC Live, we aim to connect global thought leaders with India’s design and architecture community, sparking conversations that inspire real change. The overwhelming feedback from our community shows a clear and urgent call for design that protects our planet, nurtures human connections, and boldly reimagines how our cities can work for everyone. The strong participation and engagement we’ve seen not only validate the relevance of this dialogue but also reinforce our responsibility to champion these ideas.”

The VC Live series, hosted under the GVCC banner, serves as a dynamic platform for stimulating conversations on topics ranging from sustainable urban planning to future-ready architecture. It brings together global participants, professionals, students, and design enthusiasts, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives. GVCC continues to offer exclusive benefits to its members, including access to design insights, trend reports, rewards, and recognition through initiatives like the GeeVees Awards.

With a legacy of excellence and a future-focused approach, Locks & Architectural Solutions continues to redefine how India secures and designs its spaces, championing innovation, collaboration, and sustainability at every step.

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The FDP featured distinguished speakers, including Dr. Mina Beigi (Southampton Business School, UK), Dr. Ramadhar Singh (Ahmedabad University), and Dr. Praveen Kumar (MD & CEO, Barclays India), along with academicians from Deakin University, Washington University, and Manchester Business School.

With participation from 65+ scholars across IITs, IIMs, NITs, Symbiosis, and other leading institutions, the program offered workshops on research methodology, Smart PLS, SPSS, bibliometrics, meta-analysis, and data analytics.

Highlighting ISB&M’s vision, Dr. Arun Joshi said the FDP aimed to “develop a culture of curiosity-driven research with exposure to FT-50 editors.” Dr. Pramod Kumar added, “An impactful PGDM institute is where visionary leadership meets academic excellence to shape tomorrow’s business leaders. This FDP reflects our mission to not just create researchers, but global knowledge leaders.”

The event reinforced ISB&M’s commitment to global academic excellence, coinciding with its recent membership in BGA-AMBA and the AACSB network.

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MUMBAI: Mahindra & Mahindra Limited, India’s leading SUV manufacturer, today unveiled its all-new modular, multi-energy NU_IQ platform that will underpin a new range of disruptive SUVs. The company offered a glimpse of its next-generation products by showcasing four world-beating concepts based on the new platform.

The revolutionary NU_IQ platform is the result of innovation born out of Mahindra’s strategy in the automotive space by creating products that rewrite the rules of mobility and free consumers from compromises. The manifestation of this vision has been showcased via four world-beating SUV concepts – the Vision.S, Vision.T, Vision.SXT and Vision.X, which address the white spaces while staying true to Mahindra’s core attributes of turn-on design – unmissable presence, spirited performance – on-tap power, world-class safety, sci-fi today, and tough yet sophisticated.

R Velusamy, President – Automotive Business (Designate), Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., and Managing Director, Mahindra Electric Automobile Ltd., said, “NU_IQ is a strategic blueprint for the future of Mahindra SUVs globally. With its modular, multi-energy architecture, it gives us the flexibility to innovate across multiple top hats and powertrains whilst staying true to our SUV DNA. Designed to resolve paradoxes, NU_IQ forms the foundation for our next generation of SUVs. It marks a bold step and the start of a new era that frees customers from compromises and puts truly desirable, premium core SUVs squarely in the mainstream.”

Pratap Bose, Chief Design & Creative Officer – Auto & Farm Sectors, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., said, “The NU_IQ SUVs, designed at our Global Design studios in Mumbai and Banbury, represent the start of a new chapter of our HEARTCORE design philosophy. They build on the central tenet that great design should create an emotional bond between people and their vehicles while re-imagining it for a new future. Based on the theme ‘Opposites Attract’, where the juxtaposition of contrasting elements creates an expressive new design language, these concepts promise to shape experiences that inspire adventure, confidence, and connection on any terrain, anywhere in the world.”

Nalinikanth Gollagunta, Chief Executive Officer – Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. and Executive Director, Mahindra Electric Automobile Ltd., said, “NU_IQ blends innovation, global design, and advanced technology to disrupt the white spaces in the automotive industry in India and internationally across right-and left-hand-drive markets. The four concepts we are showcasing here offer a bold preview of what’s to come. They usher in a new no-compromise era of mobility and give freedom a new meaning.”

The Next Phase of HEARTCORE Design Philosophy:

Vision.S, Vision.T, Vision.SXT and Vision. X each represents a distinct expression of Mahindra’s future-ready NU_IQ platform. These concepts represent Mahindra’s commitment to redefining personal, all-terrain mobility for a global audience, combining strong brand heritage with advanced, expressive design. From the Born Iconic spirit of Vision.T and Vision.SXT, to the Sporty Solidity of Vision.S, and the Sculptural Athleticism of Vision. X, each model is crafted with a clear, unique personality. Developed collaboratively by Mahindra India Design Studio (MIDS) in Mumbai and Mahindra Advanced Design Europe (MADE) in Banbury, UK, the four concepts are a testament to the brand’s evolving design language, one that balances timeless brand cues with modern, future-focused innovation.

These concepts, engineered at Mahindra Research Valley, will go into production starting in 2027. This bold strategy furthers Mahindra’s vision of delivering class-leading, luxury SUVs to a larger audience in India, while redefining the premium SUV experience in global markets, including Left-Hand Drive regions.

The post Mahindra Unveils Global Vision 2027: Four Revolutionary SUV Designs Powered by the Multi-Energy NU_IQ Platform appeared first on NRI News.

This milestone reinforces Godrej’s commitment to advancing India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities and aligns with its vision to become a key supplier to global aircraft engine OEMs. The contract will significantly expand the company’s offerings in aircraft engine applications, both in terms of technology and production volumes.

“For decades, Godrej has been at the forefront of high-precision manufacturing, contributing to India’s aerospace ambitions and self-reliance in critical technologies. This contract with Pratt & Whitney is not just a business milestone- it is a testament to India’s rising capabilities in complex aerospace manufacturing,” said Maneck Behramkamdin, Business Head, Aerospace business, a part of Godrej Enterprises Group. “By leveraging our advanced infrastructure, deep expertise, and commitment to global quality standards, we are proud to play a role in shaping the future of aviation manufacturing in India. We look forward to strengthening this relationship and expanding our footprint in the global aerospace supply chain.”

With this contract, Godrej Enterprises Group continues to expand its presence in precision aerospace manufacturing, reinforcing its role as a trusted supplier to global OEMs. Godrej Enterprises Group has a total of around 35,000 sq. meters of aerospace manufacturing capacity in India, with another 48,500 sq. meters under development. This is in line with the company’s vision to enable and elevate India’s manufacturing capabilities at a global level.

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As part of the exclusive brand showcase, Locks & Architectural Solutions will unveil an immersive installation stall featuring its latest range of products, including:

• Advantis IoT9 Smart Lock – India’s first home-grown IoT-enabled smart lock, offering 9 access modes such as fingerprint, mobile app, wearables, and NFC.
• Digital Locks Portfolio – A diverse selection catering to tech-savvy, security-conscious users.
• Home Décor Handles – Elegant and functional designs curated for modern Indian interiors, featuring thoughtfully crafted themes such as Euro Modern, Urban Chic, Smart Ethnic, and Neo Luxury. 

The product display reflected the brand’s deep understanding of evolving design preferences and growing smart home adoption, especially in a dynamic market like Pune. 

Pune, with its dense IT corridor and growing population of young, design-forward consumers, has emerged as a key market for Locks & Architectural Solutions. To strengthen accessibility, the brand has set up over 100 direct touchpoints, 2000+ retail stores, and 65+ premium experience zones in Pune. Additionally, home security products like rim locks, padlocks, and cylindrical locks are gaining significant digital traction and are generally grouped under the same category, reflecting a shift in consumer buying behaviour

Commenting on the participation, Shyam Motwani, Business Head – Locks & Architectural Solutions, said: “Pune’s vibrant community of design-conscious and tech-savvy homeowners continues to drive our innovation and growth. Design Perspective 2025 is the ideal platform for us to showcase how our next-gen locking and architectural solutions are elevating everyday living, seamlessly blending safety, smart technology, and aesthetic appeal. As demand surges for products that offer both form and function, we remain committed to delivering thoughtfully designed, future-ready solutions that resonate with the modern Indian lifestyle.” 

As interest in smart living, design-led spaces, and aesthetic hardware accelerates across urban India, Locks & Architectural Solutions is at the forefront of this transformation. By combining deep consumer insight with cutting-edge technology and elegant design, the brand is setting new benchmarks in the home and commercial hardware space. Pune continues to be a strategic growth hub, driven by its discerning homeowners, thriving design community, and tech-enabled lifestyle preferences. With continued investments in innovation, retail expansion, and premium experience zones, Locks & Architectural Solutions remains committed to creating secure, stylish, and future-ready spaces that enrich everyday living across India.

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CHANDIGARH: After kicking off with a successful show in Gurugram, Blenders Pride Fashion Tour transformed Chandigarh into a pulsating canvas of street-inspired fashion, live music, and bold creativity. The evening was engulfed with street-style art, freestyle dance-offs, music performances, a vibing industrial look, and youthful, adventurous edgy street fashion brought to life by Kanika Goyal’s bold designs, and Jacqueline Fernandez’s stunning runway presence!

In collaboration with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), the tour continues to set the stage with iconic showcases celebrating India’s evolving fashion narrative. The synergy between FDCI’s expertise and the tour’s cutting-edge vision reached new heights in Chandigarh, seamlessly blending street luxe with bold, avant-garde expressions, setting the benchmark for an unforgettable experience.

The evening was a celebration of fashion, music, and art, as it spotlighted designer Kanika Goyal’s distinctive aesthetic. Her collection was a visual treat, showcased through bold silhouettes, vibrant hues, and experimental fabrics that redefined the urban narrative. The runway came alive with an eclectic mix of design and storytelling with elements that captured the essence of the designer’s artistic universe. Showstopper Jacqueline Fernandez brought the designer’s vision to life, exuding a flawless blend of confidence and unapologetic charm. Adding to the experience, Hari & Sukhmani performed live on the runway, delivering a mesmerizing musical act that seamlessly synced with the energy and rhythm of the fashion showcase.

“Kartik Mohindra, Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Global Business Development at Pernod Ricard India said, “Kanika Goyal’s showcase embodies the adventurous pulse of a new-age dynamic culture – one that aligns seamlessly with our vision to create a world where individuality and innovation take center stage. As the tour moves ahead, the upcoming experiences will continue to showcase the evolving face of fashion, as ‘The One and Only’ platform converging innovation and iconicity like never before.”

Designer Kanika Goyal, sharing her thoughts on the show, said, “This collection is a celebration of fearless individuality and the intersection of street and luxury. Blenders Pride Fashion Tour provided the perfect platform to showcase this vision, and Chandigarh, with its vibrant energy, was an ideal setting to bring it to life. The audience’s enthusiastic response was overwhelming, and I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to share my vision with them.”

Showstopper Jacqueline Fernandez said, “Walking for Kanika Goyal at Blenders Pride Fashion Tour was an incredible experience. Her bold and adventurous designs perfectly captured the spirit of this celebration. The energy, creativity, and dynamic spirit of this event were unmatched. It’s amazing to be part of a celebration that brings together fashion, art, and music in such a unique way.”

Indian folktronic duo, Hari & Sukhmani said, “Music has the power to elevate every experience, and performing live on the runway at Blenders Pride Fashion Tour in Chandigarh was truly special. We loved being part of this immersive showcase that celebrated creativity in its most dynamic form.”

“The Chandigarh edition was a perfect example of the iconic world of Blenders Pride Fashion Tour, and the impact it creates by bringing together the best in fashion & style. As curator of the tour, it’s exciting to see how it continues to take shape as ‘The One and Only’ platform of en vogue experiences”, says curator Ashish Soni.

Sunil Sethi, Chairman, FDCI expressed, “FDCI couldn’t have been prouder to partner with Blenders Pride Fashion Tour, where we continue to redefine the fashion landscape. Chandigarh was a true testament to this evolving narrative. As two powerhouses in fashion, we’re committed to shaping the future of fashion experiences.“

The Fashion Tour is now headed to Guwahati on February 22^nd, 2025, where designer Jay Jajal’s brand, Jaywalking’s innovative designs will be brought to life by Tiger Shroff’s captivating presence and thumping beats by KRSNA and KARMA.

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INDIA: Sonata, India’s leading watch brand, unveils the sixth edition of its iconic Sleek series – the Sleek Collection. This latest launch is a testament to Sonata’s commitment to redefining elegance and innovation, introducing the slimmest men’s watchcase in its history. With its bold new identity and meticulously crafted lineup, the collection embodies minimalist sophistication, perfectly tailored for the discerning tastes of contemporary young professionals. Designed to resonate with urban and suburban trendsetters at the cusp of their professional aspirations, the Sleek Collection marries timeless design with modern sensibilities.

Industry reports reveal a growing preference among Indians for mid-priced watches that deliver both style and value. Sonata’s new Sleek Collection is designed to meet this demand, offering a blend of chic aesthetics and affordability. With its ultra-slim 6.05 mm profile with a dish-constructed bottom that makes it great for wrist fitment and versatile options in metal, leather, and mesh straps, the collection seamlessly complements the dynamic lifestyles of young millennials and Gen Z navigating professional and social spaces. Striking the perfect balance between elegance and practicality, this collection reaffirms Sonata’s commitment to evolving with the aspirations of the new-age professional, making it a go-to brand for trend-savvy individuals.

Speaking on the new collection, Prateek Gupta, Head of Brand – Sonata, said, “With the launch of the new Sleek Collection, we’re taking another big step forward in Sonata’s journey of innovation and excellence. This collection is designed to meet the evolving preferences of today’s professionals, offering the perfect balance of style and practicality. At Sonata, we’re focused on creating watches that not only enhance personal style but also fit seamlessly into the fast-paced lives of our customers.”

Crafted for individuals navigating dynamic and fast-paced environments, the series offers a timepiece that is both aesthetically appealing and functional. Priced between INR 1,895 to 2,895, the Sleek collection is now available at www.sonatawatches.in and at retail outlets across India.

The post Introducing Sonata’s All-New Sleek Collection appeared first on NRI News.

The store, designed by Design21 and located in Pune’s vibrant Sangamwadi area, showcases Obeetee’s commitment to growth and expansion within the Indian market. Strategically curated to reflect the brand’s evolving aesthetic, the new space offers customers an immersive experience, featuring a range of Obeetee’s traditional collections alongside the contemporary Mediterranean Memories. This dual unveiling represents Obeetee’s forward-thinking approach, merging Italian inspiration with the finest Indian craftsmanship.

The Mediterranean Memories collection depicts Obeetee’s expansion into modern design. Departing from its classic style, Obeetee explores a fresh narrative with this collection inspired by the textures, landscapes, and architecture of Southern Italy. Crafted by skilled artisans in Varanasi, these carpets blend intricate patterns with luxurious textures, embodying the cultural essence of both Italy and India.

Mariella Ienna, the Australian-Italian designer behind this collection, brings a unique Mediterranean influence, drawing upon her heritage and personal memories of Palermo. Her designs, infused with a deep appreciation for her Italian roots, align seamlessly with Obeetee’s vision of carpets as art forms that tell a story, going beyond mere decor.

“Our collaboration with Mariella Ienna represents a significant step for Obeetee,” said Angelique Dhama, CEO of Obeetee Carpets. “Mediterranean Memories is a beautiful fusion of Italian and Indian influences, and we’re delighted to share this cross-cultural artistry with our Pune customers.”

Sharing her thoughts on the collaboration with Obeetee, designer Mariella Ienna stated, “It has been a highlight of my design career to produce this heartfelt collection with Obeetee. Their trust in their collaborators and the creative process rendered the experience all the more meaningful and enriching, and I’m very excited to see it on the stands.”

In recent years, Obeetee has expanded its design horizon, as seen in past collaborations with designers like Abraham & Thakore, and brands like Tissage showcasing the brand’s versatility and dedication to preserving the artistry of handmade carpets while embracing contemporary aesthetics. Each piece within Mediterranean Memories is hand-knotted or tufted using premium materials, ensuring that this luxurious collection remains accessible to a broader audience, reflecting Obeetee’s mission to make fine craftsmanship attainable.

For more information about the Mediterranean Memories collection, visit Obeetee Carpets.

The post Obeetee Carpets Launches New Design Studio in Pune with ‘Mediterranean Memories’ Collection appeared first on NRI News.

Face of India isn’t just another fashion event—it’s a cultural movement that elevates Indian fashion to an international scale. As the official gateway to the prestigious Asia Model Festival in South Korea, this event provides young Indian talent with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk on the world’s most coveted runways, showcasing the beauty, craftsmanship, and innovation of Indian fashion. Under Badal Saboo’s charismatic leadership, this glamorous platform is propelling models and designers alike onto the global stage, solidifying India’s reputation as a fashion powerhouse.

This year’s winners, Soma Samhitha and Harshvardhan Singh (Winners 1), alongside Samiksha Kopare, and Vikas Saran, (Winners 2), and the dazzling duo of Seema Dubey and Shubham Srivastava (Winners 3), are the qualifiers all geared up to dazzle on international catwalks, with exclusive opportunities awaiting them in South Korea. For these rising stars, Face of India has become the springboard to stardom, opening doors to elite global events and fashion weeks, further cementing the event’s status as a true launchpad for global fashion careers.

The runway was ablaze with jaw-dropping collections from India’s top designers, each one pushing the boundaries of creativity while honoring the country’s rich cultural heritage. BespokeWala led the charge with their signature blend of traditional artistry and cutting-edge design with the glamorous showstopper Hemal Ingale (Actress – Model), followed by Olive Fashion, whose exquisitely tailored creations left the audience in awe. D’lore wowed with their commitment to sustainable fashion, delivering pieces that were not only breath-taking but also ethically crafted. Sumit Dasgupta’s S by SDG took eco-luxury to new heights with Actor – Entrepreneur Shivendra Singh Rajput & Mr. Maharashtra Zarna Sanghvi as the showstoppers for his show, while Asif Merchant set the runway on fire with his glamorous red carpet and bridal couture with showstopper Sargam Kausha (Mrs. World 2022-23), making it clear that opulence is here to stay.

Amid the glitz and glamour, Bollywood sensation Simrat Kaur added her star power to the mix, leaving the audience spellbound. Known for her striking beauty and style, Simrat Kaur alongside Nischala Dharva (Face of India Winner 2023), Surbhi Choutaliya, and Badal Saboo judged the contestants of Face of India 2024. The judges also mingled effortlessly with the VIPs and fashion icons, cheering on the emerging talent and taking the glamour quotient of the evening to unprecedented levels.

Yet, this year’s Face of India wasn’t just about the spectacle—it also championed sustainability and innovation. With Shakir Shaikh, one of India’s most celebrated show directors, at the helm, the runway became a stage for eco-conscious luxury, offering a fresh take on the future of fashion. His nearly three decades of expertise shone through, elevating the show to new heights of excellence and sophistication.

“We are not just celebrating Indian fashion—we are redefining it on the global stage,” stated Badal Saboo, who, through his leadership, has seamlessly merged the worlds of fashion and real estate. His Pune Fashion Week & Face of India serves as a beacon of Indian culture, blending modern design with traditional values, offering an irresistible showcase for the world to see. Badal’s bold vision to bring together real estate and fashion is reshaping both industries, with Meriton Heights stepping in as the Title Sponsor, reflecting this luxurious fusion.

Hiten Chautalia of Meriton Heights emphasized the symbiotic relationship between fashion and real estate, remarking, “Just as we create inspiring, lavish living spaces, we are here to support and nurture India’s next generation of fashion icons.” Similarly, Pavan Ranpise from SolarEra, the Powered by Partner, underscored the event’s dedication to sustainability, saying, “Our partnership with Face of India aligns with our commitment to eco-friendly innovation, encouraging designers to embrace sustainable solutions as they redefine the fashion landscape.”

The energy in the room was palpable as Face of India 2024 turned into an overwhelming success, packed with influencers, fashion aficionados, and industry titans such as Mr. Rakesh Shukla – Suzlon, Mr. Manisha Bodas – Sharda group, Mr. Sanjay Kanekar – Aone group, Mr. Satish Kokate, Mr, Shubhangi Asabe, Mr. Mangesh Suryawanshi, Mr. Santosh Bhujbal – IUCCA Pune, Mr. Rajubhai Shewani, Mr. Aman Agarwal, Mr. Bharat Desadla, Mr. Sachin Lodha, Mr. Pritam Rathod, Mr. Girish Chheda, Mr. Bhikhabhai Chotaliya, Mr.Kiran Bhagia, Mr. Vikrant Indulkar, Mr. Deep Sen, Mr. Viraang Shah and many more. Pune, now firmly entrenched as a fashion capital, played host to this unforgettable evening where style, innovation, and luxury converged, leaving an indelible mark on the global fashion scene.

In a world where fashion and business continue to evolve, Badal Saboo proves Face of India 2024 is leading the charge—taking Indian fashion to unimaginable heights and placing it firmly on the international stage.

The post Unveiling the Face of India 2024 appeared first on NRI News.

1. Unleash your inner Animal– Embrace these animal prints from  ALDO’s FW’24 Collection that help blend sophistication with a wild edge effortlessly for your autumn wardrobe!

2. Make Room for Maroon – From striking footwear to chic handbags, this fiery colour trend proves that red is here to stay, adding a touch of drama to any fall wardrobe.

3. As classy as Audrey – Classic accessories are making a comeback on the runway, these timeless pieces from ALDO can  elevate any outfit, proving that classic never goes out of style!

4. AM to PM Loafers – Styled in bold colours and unique textures, combining comfort with chic sophistication, these loafers from ALDO’s latest collection make the perfect statement piece for both casual and polished looks.

Mentioned below is the Google Drive link to the visual assets from ALDO’s Fall/Winter 2024 Collection for easy reference:

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