Author: News Desk

Shantanu Deshpande, founder and CEO of Bombay Shaving Company, addressed the increasing trend of startup failures in India through a LinkedIn post. He acknowledged the inherent risks of entrepreneurship and expressed concern over the emotional and financial fallout faced by founders and investors alike. Five Suggestions for Startup Founders Deshpande outlined five critical suggestions for founders navigating difficult phases: Reputation During Crisis Matters Deshpande highlighted that a founder’s true character is revealed during difficult periods. He criticized those who react poorly or play the victim, suggesting that such behavior leaves lasting negative impressions and damages trust. On the other hand,…

The Indian Vegetable Oil Producers’ Association (IVPA) has requested the government to step in and limit the sharp rise in duty-free edible oil imports from Nepal. These imports are allowed under the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) agreement, but the IVPA says the current situation is hurting Indian processors and farmers. According to IVPA, India imported 1.8 lakh tonnes of edible oil from Nepal between January and March 2025. This is much higher than the total of 1.25 lakh tonnes imported from Nepal during all of 2024. Most of last year’s imports arrived after India increased duties on edible…

Ananya Birla, the daughter of industrialist Kumar Mangalam Birla, is known for her accomplishments as both a businesswoman and a singer-songwriter. Recently, she made headlines by gifting Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor a luxurious lilac Lamborghini, priced between ₹4 crores and ₹4.99 crores. Ananya, hailing from the prestigious Birla family, renowned for its vast industrial and philanthropic legacy, has carved out her own unique path, blending business success with her passion for music. Ananya’s Professional Journey Ananya Birla’s formal entry into the business world occurred in January 2023 when she became a director of Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd. This…

Authorities in Abu Dhabi have introduced new guidelines aimed at preserving the aesthetic appeal of public roads and creating a more organized urban environment. One key rule prohibits placing laundry or cleaning carpets and other coverings on balconies or windows that overlook public roads. Fines for Violations The Department of Municipalities and Transport issued a warning on Sunday via social media about the penalties for these violations. The fines for improperly placing drying racks outside windows or balconies range from Dh500 for a first-time violation to Dh2,000 for repeated offenses. Similar fines will be applied to those who clean or…

Kerala will be the first state to receive the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, which will operate on the Thiruvananthapuram–Mangaluru route. This initiative is aimed at improving overnight train travel with upgraded passenger amenities and better connectivity. The rollout is part of Indian Railways’ strategic expansion through the Southern Railway zone. Train Design and Features The 16-coach sleeper train is being designed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) and manufactured by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML). It will include: The train will have a passenger capacity of approximately 1,128. Production Status and Expansion Plans While work on the Vande Bharat chair…

Construction has begun on a new expressway connecting Varanasi to Kolkata. The first phase, covering a 27-km stretch from Varanasi to Chainpur in Bihar’s Kaimur district, is currently underway. Land acquisition for this section has already been completed. Expressway Structure and Route The expressway will span approximately 610 to 690 kilometers and will be developed in 13 phases. The route will pass through four states—Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal—crossing a total of 18 districts. The goal is to significantly cut down the current 12–14 hour travel time between Varanasi and Kolkata to about 6–7 hours. Districts Covered by the Expressway High-Speed Travel and Connectivity The expressway will support a maximum speed limit of 120 kmph, allowing…

Dr. R K Nair, a Malayali businessman and passionate environmentalist based in Gujarat, is at the forefront of India’s Miyawaki forest movement. He is the founder of the non-profit organisation Enviro Creators Foundation and has been leading reforestation efforts across India using the Miyawaki afforestation technique. Smritivan: The World’s Largest Miyawaki Forest Dr. Nair’s most significant achievement is the creation of the Smritivan Miyawaki forest in Kutch, Gujarat. Spanning 470 acres and hosting over 300,000 native trees, this forest holds the distinction of being the largest Miyawaki forest in the world. Nationwide Impact Since 2014 Since 2014, Dr. Nair has driven the development of…

With immense fame, Bollywood celebrities like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan require constant personal protection. To manage public attention and ensure safety, they rely on highly paid and trusted bodyguards who accompany them everywhere. A Family-Like Bond with Shivraj Aishwarya Rai Bachchan shares a long-standing and close relationship with her main bodyguard, Shivraj. Over the years, their connection has grown beyond professional boundaries. She even attended his family wedding, underlining the deep trust between them. Shivraj is reported to earn a salary of around ₹7 lakh per month for his loyal service. Another Key Member: Rajendra Dhole Another security professional working closely…

Mirza Abbas Ali, known for his roles in 1990s Tamil films, once shared the screen with stars like Aishwarya Rai, Mammootty, and Tabu. Despite early success, his film career declined after a series of flops, leading to financial trouble and eventually bankruptcy. Life in New Zealand After Bankruptcy Following his financial downfall, Abbas moved to New Zealand, where he took up jobs like toilet cleaning, taxi driving, and mechanical work to make ends meet. He currently lives a quiet life there, away from the film spotlight. Career Highlights in South Indian Cinema Abbas made his acting debut in the hit Tamil film Kadhal Desam and…

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has introduced ‘The Metrostay’, a pod-style hotel at the New Delhi Metro Station. With prices starting at ₹400, the facility is targeted at transit passengers, particularly those using the Airport Express Line and New Delhi Railway Station. Compact Amenities and Work-Friendly DesignThe hotel offers clean, dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds and individual digital lockers. It includes a co-working area for professionals, indoor games such as carrom, and a mini-theatre for entertainment. Focus on Women’s SafetySpecial provisions for female guests include dedicated dormitories and washrooms. The setup aims to provide a secure and comfortable environment for solo women travellers. Positive Guest FeedbackGuests have praised the facility for its convenience…