PUNE: The French Institute in India, in collaboration with the Alliance Française network, unveils Reflet, a hypnotic duet by Company Xuan Le, where contemporary dance meets hip-hop, roller skating, and visual art in a deeply sensory experience. French choreographer Xuan Le is joined by Shih-ya Peng — two energies circling, mirroring, and dissolving into each other as they capture both human tension and tenderness.

The performance will take place at Kalagram, P. L. Deshpande Garden on Sinhagad Road on December 6th at 7:30 pm.

Pune Municipal Corporation has extended support to this program.

Entry to this program is free of cost. Registration to attend the program can be done through Bookmyshow.com and Allevents.in

Composer Jules Evrard’s Soundscape, woven with soft electronic layers and ambient echoes, creates an atmosphere that breathes with the dancers, deepening the sense of reflection and release. The performance transforms the stage into an arena of quiet contemplation, where the audience doesn’t just watch movement; they feel it.

Indian audiences may remember Xuan Le from 2023, when he appeared as one of the performer-dancers in Pixel, Mourad Merzouki’s groundbreaking creation that left a lasting impression during its India tour.

Now, he returns with Reflet, his own creation, carrying this artistic dialogue forward and taking it to a new level. What began in 2018 as an intimate solo exploration of balance and perception matured into a duet with Peng in 2022, touring across Europe and Asia to widespread acclaim. In 2025, this show arrives in India, presented across six cities as part of the French Institute in India’s Performing Arts Tour.

“Coming back to India feels very special for me. My experience with Pixel in 2023 and the energy of the Indian audience have stayed with me ever since. Reflet’s first tour in India is a wonderful opportunity for us to share our artistic language with new audiences. My team and I are excited for the performances and to meet participants during the workshops, to exchange, move, and create together,” says Xuan Le.

The post Experience the Elegance of Reflet: A Poetic Dance of Balance and Motion by Company Xuan Le in Pune on December 6th appeared first on NRI News.

MUMBAI: The Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IFCCI) signed an MOU with the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) to facilitate investments from France into Maharashtra. An initial MoU was signed in September 2021 and this renewal was signed during a high-level roundtable discussion organized on, ‘The Ease of Doing Business in Maharashtra’ held in the presence of over 25 CEOs from top French companies operating in sectors such as automotive, renewable energy, chemicals, IT, transport, consumer goods, construction etc. The MoU was signed by Mr. P. Velrasu, CEO, MIDC, and Mr. Benoit Renard, Vice President, IFCCI and Managing Director, Air Liquide India.

The MoU aims to:

• Enhance bilateral trade and investment flows between France and Maharashtra
• Facilitate the entry of new French companies into the State
• Support the expansion of existing French businesses in Maharashtra
• Foster a conducive industrial environment aligned with Maharashtra’s Ease of Doing Business initiatives

On this occasion, Payal S. Kanwar, Director General, IFCCI stated that, “France has deep economic interests in the State of Maharashtra and is committed to enhance its positioning towards investments and job creation into the state; the renewal of the MOU with MIDC is a testimony of the growing interest and expansion of French companies in the state of Maharashtra and we look forward to building a strong partnership.”

Shri P. Velrasu, CEO, MIDC, welcomed the initiative and noted that such forums are very important for MIDC to help industries and ensure an inclusive environment. Shri P Velrasu welcomed the MoU between the two organizations and also noted that the forums should regularly convene to bring more momentum and allow MIDC to help solve industry issues. He also assured the industry representatives that MIDC is dedicated to addressing the issues of industries and is actively taking steps to bring ease of doing business in the state.

The roundtable discussion served as a platform for French industry leaders to engage in a constructive deliberation and dialogue with MIDC, sharing on-ground experiences and recommendations to further streamline business operations and investment processes in the State.

The renewal of the IFCCI-MIDC partnership is a pivotal step in strengthening the Indo-French industrial corridor, fostering innovation, sustainable growth, and mutual prosperity.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Hon’ble Deputy Consul, Mr. Sami Bouakaze, Consulate General of France in India and Mr. Benoit Gauthier, Minister Counsellor for Economic and Financial Affairs & Head, Regional Economic Department, Embassy of France in India along with top key French investors and business leaders who were present for the event.

The post Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry Partners with MIDC to Boost French Investments in Maharashtra appeared first on NRI News.

AN ODE TO THE FRENCH ART DE VIVRE

Inspired by the art de vivre à la française, these workshops immerse participants in the heart of Parisian gastronomic culture. With a hybrid format combining a hands-on cooking class and an outdoor excursion just a few steps away, One Day in Paris showcases the richness of local craftsmanship and the exceptional savoir-faire of the Chefs at École Ducasse Paris Studio. Over a single day, participants are guided by expert teams who share their passion for quality ingredients and teach the refined techniques inspired by Chef Alain Ducasse.

The program includes a full day of immersion at École Ducasse Paris Studio and across the charming 16th arrondissement neighborhood of Boulainvilliers, featuring:

• A warm welcome with a gourmet breakfast
• A guided visit to the Passy and Annonciation market with a Chef from École Ducasse Paris Studio, offering encounters with local artisans and producers (including a baker committed to crafting his sourdough bread)
• An exclusive cooking workshop at École Ducasse Paris Studio using fresh market ingredients
• A tasting lunch of the dishes prepared during the session
• A chocolate and coffee tasting featuring selections from Alain Ducasse’s own Manufactures

Offered in English (also available in French), this workshop is designed especially for visitors to Paris who wish to explore the culinary arts and experience the essence of the French art de vivre.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Individual rate: €369
• Limited spots available; dates can be viewed on the website www.paris-ecoleducasse-studio.com or upon request for private bookings.
• Registrations are open via email at accueil@ecoleducasse.com, through the website www.paris-ecoleducasse-studio.com, or by phone at +33 (0)1 44 90 91 00
• École Ducasse Paris Studio 64 rue du Ranelagh 75016 Paris

The post École Ducasse Paris Studio’s Exclusive “One Day in Paris” Experience appeared first on NRI News.

NEW DELHI: Technip Energies flagship CSR program in India, ‘SEED OF HOPE’ has won the best CSR Project award once again for its unparalleled project planning, execution, and the positive impact it created on its immediate surroundings. Technip Energies, one of the world’s leading engineering and technology companies for energy transition, has won the ‘Indo-French Business Award’ in the ‘Best CSR Project of the Year’ category at the sixth edition of the prestigious Indo-French Business Awards & Grand Prix VIE 2024.

The French Ambassador to India, H.E. Mr. Thierry Mathou, presented the award to Davendra Kumar, MD India. The event took place in April and was attended by nearly 150 participants from the Indo-French business community, including CEOs, business leaders, CXOs, and diplomats from the French Embassy in India / Ambassade de France en Inde. Divided into ten categories of business excellence, the Indo-French Business Award, patronized by the French Ambassador to India, is a coveted recognition bestowed only upon best-in-class brands setting new benchmarks in the respective categories.

Davendra Kumar, Managing Director, Technip Energies India, said, “Winning the Indo-French Business Award for our ‘Seed of Hope’ program fills us with joy; it’s a testament to our commitment to making a positive impact in our community and of our team’s hard work. ‘Seed of Hope’ can serve as a global model for effective CSR, delivering significant benefits for people and the environment.”

Seed of Hope is the flagship CSR program of Technip Energies India aligned with the group ESG roadmap, “Together by T.EN”. The program aims to accelerate inclusive growth in the local communities of operations. ‘Seed of Hope’ has had a positive impact on more than 125,000 lives across India since 2015 through various initiatives: 

• Supported 58,000 disaster-affected individuals 
• Helped more than 19,000 girls receive STEM education  
• Helped more than 9,000 children attend school  
• Helped more than 950 young people take part in vocational training  
• Trained 500 women in employment opportunities  
• Installed 150 smokeless stoves, 80 solar streetlights, and 100 biogas units in local communities 
• Planted more than 40,000 saplings and recycled 130,000 kg of waste 

Aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals, the ‘Seed of Hope’ excels with its innovative approach and impactful outcomes. The ‘Seed of Hope program has received many coveted awards and recognition, including the CSR Award conferred by the President of India, ‘Best Innovative Practices on SDGs’ in the Private Sector category conferred by UN Global Compact Network India (GCNI), Special Jury Recognition Award for ‘Empowering Rural Population’ in Large Enterprise Category conferred by Indian Chamber of Commerce. The program also received the IFCCI CSR Conclave & Awards in November last year.

The post ‘Seed of Hope’ Wins The Best CSR Project Of The Year For Delivering Significant Benefits For People And The Environment appeared first on NRI News.

With a spacious indoor seating capacity accommodating 118 guests, the new Pune outlet ensures patrons can relish PAUL’s renowned culinary offerings amidst an inviting ambiance. Inspired by the elegance of French architectural elements, the restaurant’s interiors emanate warmth, providing diners with a delightful dining experience. Positioned as one of Pune’s premier culinary hubs, this establishment seamlessly blends European cuisine, vibrant aesthetics, and captivating interiors, appealing to discerning food enthusiasts and social media aficionados alike.

With the launch of PAUL, Kopa Mall has brought an authentic European culinary escapade paired with top-notch service for Punekars. Elevating the lifestyle and offering diverse global experiences, Kopa Mall has now expanded its culinary offerings to encompass seven distinct restaurant locations, catering to the diverse tastes and preferences of its customers. With an exceptional array of French delicacies and its inviting ambiance, PAUL is poised to become an essential destination for both locals and visitors.

Commenting on the launch, Payal Singh, Head of Marketing, PAUL India, expressed her excitement, stating, “We’re thrilled to introduce the flavors of France to Pune. With this debut, we aim to cater to Pune’s dynamic neighborhoods. PAUL stands as the quintessential destination, whether for a romantic evening, an intimate celebration, or a casual gathering with friends. We’re confident that this restaurant will establish itself as a symbol of premium French casual dining in the city. Join us on a culinary voyage to the heart of France at our new outlet on the ground floor of KOPA Mall Pune.“

From PAUL’s signature bread, pâtisseries and viennoiseries to handcrafted pizzas, salads, and soups, each dish exudes culinary excellence. The menu also features a selection of crepes, quiches, sandwiches, pasta, risottos, and beverages, all prepared with the finest locally and internationally sourced ingredients, showcasing PAUL’s unwavering dedication to authentic French cuisine.

Inspired by European culinary traditions, the brand’s menu prioritizes the freshest and finest ingredients, free from palm oil, artificial colors, or additives. With a commitment to “Eat Well, Live Well,” PAUL promotes health and wellness, embracing sustainable practices.

From hearty breakfasts to indulgent dinners, the dining venue caters to the cravings from 9:30 a.m. to 12 a.m., allowing patrons to relish a wide range of exquisite cuisines and indulgent offerings throughout the day. Having said that, the eatery does boast a separate breakfast menu to Frenchify mornings.

The post PAUL Brings French Culinary Excellence To Pune’s Lifestyle Destination Kopa Mall appeared first on NRI News.