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Get ready to savour India’s first truly modern gourmet mithai 

Bringing a revolution to the Indian mithai world, Master Chef Ajay Chopra is set to launch Kshir & Canelé which aims to be India’s first go-to destination for modern, gourmet mithais and pastries.  

The first store opens at M3M 65th Avenue Mall, Sector 65, Gurgaon with a plan to expand and launch more stores across the country. Kshir & Canelé is a wonderful juxtaposition of Indian mithai and pastry with global flavours, revolutionising the mithai space and offering a melange of flavours for one to indulge in!  

The brand stands for purity and innovation, and is Chef Chopra’s imagination and culinary expertise to change the perception towards Indian sweets and patisserie by marrying it with international flavours that will tantalise the global palate. These culinary masterpieces bring together nostalgia and novelty, offering revolutionary flavours inspired by a multicultural heritage.  

Kshir is a Sanskrit word meaning milk which is a symbol of abundance and purity and is a common ingredient in many popular Indian desserts. On the other hand, Canelé is a French word for a small vanilla-flavoured pastry with a soft custard centre and a caramelised crust. Hence the thoughtfully crafted name Kshir & Canelé, an amalgamation of Indian and French flavours presented on an artistic platter. platter.   

“Six years ago, I envisioned a brand that would bring to life a melange of my love for Indian mithai and delightful western confections, and in 2022, I saw light to the same with Kshir & Canelé. I have re-imagined the traditional Indian Mithai in A French inspired Avatar and we bring to you this newness of thoughtful flavours in a luxe box affordable for everyone. The box can be customised and comes in different sizes for every occasion and every palate”, says Chef Ajay Chopra, Co-Founder on the launch of Kshir & Canelé.   

So, get ready to pamper your palate and excite your taste buds with the most delectable delicacies curated to bring sweetness in all your occasions.  

In June 2024, École Ducasse and Hectar will launch a Professional Training course on the theme of “Bringing Biodiversity and Sustainable Food to the Plate“. Hectar is an association dedicated to accelerating the agricultural transition and supporting start-ups in this field across Europe. Hectar also creates initiatives backed by major groups such as Parfums Christian Dior. The two-day professional training course scheduled for 20 and 21 June will enable chefs to better identify the role they need to play in the transition to healthier, more sustainable food and will cover key topics such as soil regeneration, climate issues and the importance of the chef-producer relationship. It will also include an immersive visit to the Hectar pilot farm, as well as conversations with renowned chefs who have initiated new forms of collaboration with producers and implemented self-production “kitchen-garden-chef” approaches.

All École Ducasse Bachelors and career conversion programs will also be enriched with a two-day module on sustainable food. This addition will form an integral part of the healthy and natural cooking module from 2024 onwards and will focus on plant-based cuisine as well as territorial diversity, with an immersive visit to the Hectar pilot farm and talks by experts on the themes of soil regeneration, permaculture and fermentation.

Through this collaboration, École Ducasse and Hectar are committed to training chefs who are not only talented but also involved in a responsible transition towards more sustainable food, keenly aware of their environmental impact as part of their professional practice.

The vision nurtured by Alain Ducasse – Founder École Ducasse, Michelin-starred chef and emblematic figure in the world gastronomy –inspires the spirit of this partnership: “Well-sourced produce is at once good to eat, economically good and good for the planet”.

Elise Masurel, Managing Director École Ducasse, comments: “We are delighted that this long-term partnership with Hectar has come to fruition, as it aligns perfectly with our desire to train civic-minded chefs who must be fully involved in the transition to a sustainable and healthy diet. This partnership is a major step towards a form of gastronomy that respects, celebrates and preserves our planet.”

“Hectar is delighted to be involved in the training of future chefs, as it is important for us to be able to contribute to the dissemination of knowledge in order to foster links between those who work the land and those who enhance its produce”, said Hectar Founder Audrey Bourolleau.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and Room to Read India successfully concluded the first edition of its Children’s Literature Awards, a pioneering initiative aimed at addressing the dearth of age-appropriate children’s literature, particularly in vernacular languages. The Awards, supported by the USAID under the Scaling-Up Early Reading Intervention(SERI) Project, underscore the critical need for quality children’s literature in India.

The Room to Read Children’s Literature Awards (CLA) were conceived as a response to the shortage of quality children’s literature in India, especially in vernacular  languages. Committed to recognizing and promoting high-quality children’s literature, CLA seeks to create awareness and evolve a culture of reading through collaborations with like-minded organizations.

The awards serve as a platform to acknowledge and provide new opportunities to book creators while offering high-quality books to children nationwide. In its inaugural year, the awards focused on literature published in the Hindi language and intends to expand to other Indian languages and Room to Read presence countries in the upcoming editions.

This year, the awards were presented under two broad categories, Teacher-Librarian’s Choice Award (where teachers and librarians voted for the best books for ages three to eight and eight to twelve) and Picture Book Creator Award (where Young Picture Book Authors, illustrators and publishers were awarded for their books for ages three to eight and eight to twelve). Celebrated Author and Management Guru, Gurcharan Das, was the Guest of Honour for the day and felicitated the winners.

Speaking on the occasion Mark Tegenfeldt, Director, General Development Office, USAID/India, emphasized, “Promoting children’s literature in vernacular languages is essential for building a strong foundation in literacy. The Children’s Literature Awards serve as a platform to spotlight the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity in children’s books, promoting relatable literature in India. USAID is proud to partner with Room to Read India on this novel initiative that is set to benefit children across India.

Poornima Garg, Country Director, Room to Read India, stated, “By instituting the Childrens’ Literature Awards, Room to Read India and the USAID aim to establish a foundation to encourage budding writers, illustrators, and publishers to bring creativity and magic tochildren’s lives. Through such initiatives, we will continue our efforts to contribute towards the national policies in India’s literacy landscape, advancing the realization of the SDG4.”

The event featured a comprehensive panel discussion on “Gaps in Original Indian Language Children’s Literature and Lack of Book Creators,” where literature experts shared insights on the critical issues.

A pivotal moment of the event was the unveiling of the report titled “Bringing Children’s Literature to Classrooms,” to support dissemination of learning from the Scaling-up Early Reading Intervention (SERI) project.

The magic of timeless music comes alive with the release of “Kehna Galat Galat,” a reimagined version of one of the legendary Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s most iconic masterpieces. This soulful rendition is crafted by the talented duo Javed-Mohsin and features the powerful vocals of Jyoti Nooran, known for her recent hit “Paon Ki Jutti.” Her passionate singing pays tribute to the original while adding a refreshing modern touch.

To complement the track, the beautifully shot music video stars Sana Makbul, winner of Bigg Boss OTT Season 3, and Karan Veer Mehra, champion of Khatron Ke Khiladi 14. Set against the stunning backdrop of Udaipur, the video tells the story of a newly married wife, played by Sana, who struggles in a challenging relationship with her abusive husband, portrayed by Karan.

With modern music and thought-provoking lyrics by Kunaal Vermaa, this version of “Kehna Galat Galat” is poised to connect with audiences of all ages. It honours the essence of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s classic while promising to be one of the most memorable recreations in recent times.

Singing ‘Kehna Galat Galat’ was not just a performance for me; it was an honor to breathe new life into such an iconic piece. This reimagining is my way of paying tribute to his incredible legacy while adding my own flavour to it. I hope my rendition resonates with both old fans and new listeners alike.”says Jyoti Nooran.

Sharing their thoughts on the track, the composers, Javed- Mohsin shared,“Creating this version of ‘Kehna Galat Galat’ was a beautiful challenge. We aimed to honour the original while infusing it with contemporary elements that appeal to today’s audience. We believe that music transcends time, and we’re thrilled to bring the magic of this iconic track to a new generation.”

Talking about Kehna Galat Galat, Sana Makbul shares, “Playing the role of a married woman trapped in an abusive relationship was both challenging and deeply moving. I hope this story resonates with viewers and sparks important conversations. This music video is more than just a visual experience; it’s a narrative that reflects real struggles of many women in our country – that never gets seen or heard. I am very happy that VYRL Originals considered me to be a part of this project that honours such an iconic song while addressing significant issues.”

Talking about his latest project, the winner of Khatron Ke Khiladi 14, Karan Veer Mehra, said “Portraying a complex character like an abusive husband required me to tap into some intense emotions. It was a challenging role, because it’s of a chauvinistic man , a husband who fails to give even an iota of respect to his marriage and at every point reinforces the patriarchal mind frame that is still so prevalent in so many homes in our country. The actor in me jumped at the opportunity to play someone like that, and I had to dig deep within myself to portray this character convincingly. Add to this – the chance to work in a recreation of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan saab, rendered by the powerful vocals of Jyoti Nooran and to work alongside my good friend Sana Makbul- this is the kind of project I didn’t want to pass on.  I hope our performances coupled with the absolutely stellar music leave a lasting impact on the audience.”

Known for his powerful voice and emotionally charged storytelling, Raj Mawar returns with his latest romantic track, “Jhuth Bolna”.

The song takes listeners on a deeply poignant journey down memory lane, capturing the raw emotions that come with unfulfilled love and broken trust.

With his signature soulful touch, Raj Mawar delivers vocals that pierce through the heart, perfectly embodying the sorrow of someone left behind.

Accompanied by a cinematic and evocative music video, the song features the stunning and expressive Fiza Choudhary, whose performance adds depth and intensity to this tale of lost love.

”Jhuth Bolna’ is a piece of my heart. It captures the silent pain so many of us carry when love turns into lies.

I wanted every word and every note to echo that raw, unfiltered emotion of betrayal. If it brings even one listener comfort, then I know I’ve done justice to the story” says Raj Mawar

“The RBI’s decision to cut the repo rate by 50 basis points to 5.50% and reduce the CRR by 100 basis points to 3% is a welcome and timely move. It signals a strong commitment to support growth, enhance liquidity, and make credit more accessible and affordable during a crucial phase of the economic recovery.

The shift in policy stance to ‘neutral’ reflects a prudent and balanced approach, with an eye on long-term stability. Importantly, the RBI’s confidence and continued liaising to strengthen the unsecured credit space is also a big boost for lenders. It encourages responsible lending while easing previous concerns in this segment.

These measures will lower the cost of funds and increase credit flow, especially for MSMEs, affordable housing borrowers, and underserved communities. Together, they pave the way for a more inclusive and resilient economic rebound for a sustainable growth.”

Eco Garden Resort where your dream vacation becomes a reality. Nestled amidst 21 acres of sprawling natural beauty, our resort offers an unrivaled escape for those seeking a harmonious blend of luxury and nature.

Eco Garden is more than just a luxury resort; it’s a destination that awakens -your senses and rejuvenates your spirit.

Our commitment to preserving the environment makes us a truly nature-friendly paradise, ensuring that your getaway leaves a minimal ecological footprint.

We provide all the facilities that luxury resorts can provide. We offer a wide range of accommodation options designed to cater to every traveller’s unique preferences.

Whether you’re a water enthusiast, nature lover, or an avid explorer, Eco Garden has something for everyone.

Explore Butterfly Garden, Off-road Polaris Riding, Fishing, Cycling, Boating, Indoor Outdoor Games, Children Park, Health club etc.

Indulge in the scrumptious food and authentic flavors served at our multi-cuisine restaurant, where our skilled chefs use fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that tantalize your taste buds and reflect the rich culture of the region.

From the elegance of our one of a kind – Water Villa, floating above our quarry pond, to the charming seclusion of our Tree Huts, you’ll find yourself immersed in the lap of luxury amidst the beauty of nature.

And Also, From romantic weddings to corporate retreats, our resort is the perfect venue for all your special occasions.

We offer bespoke event planning and a stunning backdrop to make your moments memorable.

For corporate meetings and wedding ceremonies 3 types of Banquet Halls which can accommodate events and meetings from 5 up to a 1000 people.

This tranquil resort serves as an idyllic gateway to explore the rich cultural and natural treasures of the region.

Eco Garden Resort is nestled in the picturesque town of Cheruthuruthy, a charming destination located within the Thrissur District of the mesmerizing state of Kerala, India.

Notable nearby attractions include the renowned Kerala Kalamandalam, a hub for traditional Indian performing arts and dance, where visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant world of classical art forms.

The Bharathapuzha River gently meanders through the area, offering a serene backdrop for boat rides and riverside picnics.

The Varikkasseri Mana, a historic traditional Brahmin house, showcases the architectural and cultural essence of Kerala’s heritage.

For a day of family-friendly fun, the impressive Malampuzha Dam beckons with its lush gardens, expansive reservoir, and amusement park.

Lastly, the Uthrallikavu Temple, a revered Hindu shrine, provides an opportunity to explore the spiritual and cultural significance of the region through unique rituals and vibrant festivals.

Eco Garden Resort is the perfect haven for travelers seeking a serene retreat in the heart of Kerala’s cultural and natural wonders.

Courtesy : In conversation with the MD & CEO, Kiran Prem’ at ECO GARDEN Resort & Heritage, Nr. Kerala Kalamandalam, Vallathol Nagar, Cheruthuruthi, Kerala, India

The Tanjore Tiffin Room is an ode to traditional homestyle Tamil food.  Founded by Kishore D.F, a restauranteur with legendary experience of over three decades known for his ventures like Pot Pourri, Lemon Grass Café, Seijo & The Soul Dish, WTF, Jimmy Hu, The Brooklyn Shuffle, The Bombay Bronx.

The restaurant launched in 2017 in Versova, with a vision to break the notion of food from the  being associated with just Idli and Sambar and showcase more authentic non-vegetarian dishes.

With Tanjore Tiffin Room the founders wanted to put Tamil Cuisine on the map of the culinary landscape.

Since its inception, the brand has expanded to Khar in 2019 and more recently, launched in Goa in 2023

The menu at the core of its culinary journey revolves around small plates, capturing the vibrant spirit of the city.

It goes beyond being just a meal; it’s an exploration of the cultural medley that defines Tamil cuisine.

It houses small plates like Marina Beach Sundal,  made of vatana tossed with raw mango, shredded coconut and onions; Yam Cutlet a perfect appetiser, crunchy on the outside and soft and spicy on the inside; Mushroom Pepper Fry, mushrooms tossed in freshly ground

pepper, coriander and fennel powder; Madras Tiger Prawns, grilled to perfection with butter, pepper garlic masala; Coromandel Clams made with yellow chilli and fresh coconut dry masala; Chilli Rib a succulent slow cooked pork rib glazed with Chettinad chilies.

Moving on to the mains, indulge in some traditional tamil-style dishes like Ennai Kathrrika made with small brinjals in a tangy tamarind curry with fresh ground masala, Poriyal a simple dish of dry mixed vegetables tossed with grated coconut, Madras Railway Curry, a classic anglo indian fix from the Arakkonam junction, a creamy coconut, onion and tomato based curry; Khorma a mild thick curry in a ground coconut, cashew nut and ginger garlic base which can be teamed with options like chicken, mutton, prawns.

The menu also offers delectable rice options like Jackfruit Biryani, Prawn Biryani, Egg Biryani and classic dishes like Lemon Rice, Sambhar Rice and more.

To compliment the exquisite cuisine, The Tanjore Tiffin Room offers a carefully curated selection of cocktails.

Guests can enjoy an array of creative cocktails while soaking in the restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere.

The menu features enticing options like the X & The Sour Equation, blending vodka, X Rated liqueur, cranberry, and lime; the Pondicherry Punch, a refreshing Orange & Basil Mojito; the Sundance Kid, combining Passion Fruit, Elderflower, Tequila, Triple sec, and citrus mix; or the Tamil Sunrise, a tropical LITT with orange juice for those who love tropical flavours.

As guests step into this gastronomic sanctuary, they embark on a journey, savouring not just dishes but memories woven through time.

It’s an invitation to experience a joyride of flavours and the warmth of Tamilian home-style cooking.

As the curtains fall on 2023, KRAFTON India and BATTLEGROUNDS MOBILE INDIA (BGMI) proudly reflect on a year filled with thrilling battles, monumental landmarks, record-breaking achievements. As total downloads for BGMI cross 199 million, with downloads for 2023 alone surpassing the 100 million mark, this journey has firmly solidified BGMI’s position as India’s most loved battle royale game.

Here are the trends that made BGMI the go-to battleground for action-packed gaming experiences in 2023:

Favorite Drop Locations: Picking Your Spot

Whether it’s predicting circle shifts or gearing up with the right weapons, every BGMI veteran recognizes that the perfect drop location can be the game-changer, making or breaking their match. In 2023, players most often chose the familiar halls of School, the strategic Sosnovka Military Base along with Hospital to kick-off their matches.

Weapon of the Year & Most Coveted Items

The M416, AKM, and UMP45 were popular choices, defining arsenals and making battles more intense. The Combat Knife, Pan, and M416 became the most looted items, playing a crucial role in survival during critical stages and contributing to a well-equipped arsenal.

Vehicles of Choice

In 2023 Players added style when exploring the vast world of BGMI with their vehicle choices. For navigating tough terrain, dependable options like Dacia and UAZ were favored.

Most Played Maps: Favorite Battlegrounds

These maps were the most played in 2023, offering players thrilling team battles and opportunities for strategic gameplay across the Battlegrounds. In BGMI’s dynamic world, the standout battle modes, Team Death Match Warehouse for intense team battles and Ranked Erangel for strategy, shaped the gaming landscape.

Most Anticipated In-Game Event             

In 2023, BGMI continued its tradition of delivering exciting in-game events and collaborations. BGMI elevated the gaming experience by introducing Ranveer Singh as a playable character and bringing a special crate and event where players could collect the actor’s voice pack, emotes inspired by his dance moves, themed rewards such as ornaments and space gifts and more.

The Dragon Ball Mode event further captivated players by seamlessly merging the thrill of BGMI with the iconic Dragon Ball universe, featuring themed modes for collecting Dragon Balls and a Battle Royale: Dragon Ball Super mode with unique character moves.

BGMI Player Strongholds

Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Bangalore, in order of player count, stand as strongholds of BGMI enthusiasts, showcasing the widespread popularity and dedicated player base that has contributed to BGMI’s success.

Most Engaged Community

In 2023, BGMI experienced tremendous participation across events and contests, establishing itself as one of the most engaged gaming communities to date.