11th Worldex China Expo

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Most Eagerly Awaited Annual Event Since 2004 - the “11th China Products Exhibition” To Boost Manufacturing And Trading Opportunities For Indian Entrepreneurs

ñ  Chinese and Hong Kong companies from more than 40 sectors to come to Mumbai with a variety of industrial and consumer products

ñ  Style Hong Kong Pavilion will be an added attraction

Being organized since 2004, the 11th edition of “China Products (Mumbai, India) Exhibition” will take place from 26th – 28th November, 2013 at the Bombay Convention and Exhibition Centre, Goregaon (East),Mumbai, India. The longest running China Exhibition in India and also the definitive international sourcing platform for Indian business enterprises, this unique trade expo showcases more than 40 industries and verticals. The 11th China Products Exhibition will have an added attraction in the form of a Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) pavilion where companies from Hong Kong will showcase their range of stylish and contemporary products. Providing complimentary business matching services, the Exhibition assists Indian businesses in meeting their future business partners from China and Hong Kong.

The current edition is covering an extensive range of products across a wide section of industries like consumer electronics & durables, home appliances, fashion jewellery & accessories, machinery, machine tools, mechanical & electrical equipment & parts, power tillers, hydraulic equipment, grinding products, UPVC doors, wallpaper, medical equipment, traditional Chinese medicine, ceramic products, food & beverages, toys, LED products, silk, leather, fibres & yarns.

Powering Indian entrepreneurs to succeed for the 11th consecutive year, the Exhibition will help Indian enterprises source machinery and components from China – providing quality products at lower rates and logistics costs - thus bringing down manufacturing costs.  Additionally, Indian traders, importers and distributors can source an extensive range of consumer products at more affordable prices for the burgeoning retail industry.

Despite the global and local scenario, the Indian economy is growing due to strong domestic consumption. With a rising middle class population expected to reach 267 million by 2015-16, as well as the world's youngest population, the consumption pattern is expected to shift from food items to discretionary spending. The show offers an excellent opportunity for brands and companies to develop businesses in the areas of services and manufacturing along with the growing consumer market. India is also home to 48.8 million SMEs and 5 thousand large enterprises. This in itself is a huge potential market for companies to service the SME market owing to increasing need for efficiency and collaboration.

The trade show is being organized by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), Sub-councils of Commercial Industry, Guangdong, Ningbo, Hangzhou, Sichuan, Wuhan, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Department of Foreign Trade and Economic Co-operation of Guangdong Province and Macao Trade and Investment Promotion Institute. The Exhibition is supported by the All India Association of Industries (AIAI), the India-China Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ICCCI), the Indian Merchants' Chamber (IMC) and managed by Worldex India.

Designer Neeta Lulla’s latest collection is an ode to Kanjeevaram and Kalamkari

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Inspired by the traditional craft, festive wear gets a new edge

Ever since the inception of the weave, Kanjeevaram has been worn in its original or print form, which is the basic sari. Used on special occasions it symbolizes a tradition, elegance and timelessness. Inspired by the art form, Neeta Lulla has focused on reinventing Kanjeevaram and Kalamkari by giving it a chic, contemporary and edgy look for the festive season. With the fusion of traditional culture and modern fashion, the collection presents a regal and vibrant outlook.

The collection uses traditional weaves of Kanjeevaram and the age old technique of hand painting that is Kalamkari and transforms them into contemporary designs teamed with various fabric textures. With the Kalamkari collection, Neeta pays patronage to an Indian art that needs no introduction. The line is constructed into simple silhouettes and embellished with appliqué of Kanjeveram or Kalamkari on rich silks, organza and chiffons. The well crafted dresses, skirts, cropped tops, multi-gored kurtas, lehangas and saris come in an assorted palette of colours, keeping with the richness that exudes from the Kalamkari and Kanjevaram. Says Neeta of her designs, “I am glad that my Indian creations; especially my tribute to the Kalamkari and Kanjeevaram art forms have been so well accepted and noticed. Indian clothes demand more creativity and attention. With these designs I have attempted to bring together our cultural heritage and our modern outlook.”

The prints of Kalamkari is attired it with lots of French laces, georgettes coupled with lavish velvet cutwork borrowed from the Renaissance period. In order to credit a heritage touch, Neeta Lulla has coloured her ensemble in shades of deep red, gold, Persian green and rust. Traditional kundan and metal work on brocades of Banaras and chiffon added a sensuous quality to the fabric and texture of her creation. The collection takes on an exploratory route by introducing Kalidar floor-length kurtas teamed with printed bodices and sleeves, mermaid tail lehengas, printed skirts, velvet cholis complimented with lace boleros for that tinge of archaic elegance. The collection is an amalgamation of Kalamkari’s rich inspirations of renaissance and a modern take to the overall ensemble. The intricate prints form a celebratory ensemble for a festive or matrimonial occasions. Bringing together contemporary designs with this age old technique, maintaining the ethnicity of the craft.

Surat grooves to Gujarat’s most glamorous Glam Garba

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“Club Bollywood & Club Ibiza” @ VR Surat

First-of-its-kind event is a rocking hit & takes the city by storm

Raghav Sachar, Sonu Kakkar, DJs Akbar Sami, DJA-Myth and by Jankee enthrall Surtis with a unique mix of traditional, modern and international performances by on Oct 11^th & 12^th at The Runway, VR Surat

This Navratri, Surat has become the hot ‘n happening destination, with the ”Glam Garba” concept being introduced by acclaimed singer, musician and VR Surat’s music ambassador Raghav Sachar. The two-day exclusive Glam Garba Event on October 11 and 12, which gave the traditional dance and festivities a modern and international tweak, was created keeping in mind the preference of its fashion and lifestyle conscious customers.  At the Runway, VR Surat lined-up unforgettable and scintillating performances by Raghav Sachar, Sonu Kakkar, DJs Akbar Sami and A-Myth as also Jankee Parekh in an ambience inspired by the trendiest party hotspots across the globe. On the first day (October 11 Friday night from 10pm to 1pm) of the mega event garba lovers were introduced to “Club Bollywood” Glam Garba followed by “Club Ibiza” the next day on Saturday (October 12). And Raghav Sachar, Sonu Kakkar & DJ Akbar Sami had the crowds begging for more.

Speaking on behalf of VR Surat, Paresh Mishra, Director of Operations- Western Region, Virtuous Retail said, “Alongside our Phase II Retail Launch of VR Surat, we are very excited to host the ‘Glam Garba’ on the occasion of Navratri this weekend. Surat is a cosmopolitan city with strong cultural roots, and we are delighted to take the idea of Garba global through this unique event. We believe this new format will attract diverse audiences and broaden the festival’s participation across communities."

In sync with the latest lifestyle trends, VR Surat with its retail partners geared up to showcase the best of Indian and international premium brands such as Zara, Marks & Spencer, Zodiac, Peter England, Clarks, Helios, SVM Bowling & Gaming, Being Human, MAC, Sisley, Monte Carlo, Jade Blue, Ethos, Clinique, Nautica, GANT, BIBA, Pizza Hut, Subway, McDonalds, Punjab Street, Dwarkhadesh, and Wok on Fire, among others. 

Westside, Global Desi and AND are style partners for the event. VR Surat ran a ‘Shop the Look’ campaign for Glam Garba to drive the season’s latest fashion trends.

VR Surat, an integrated community-oriented premium lifestyle shopping center, collaborated with Raghav Sachar Productions to conceptualise and create this exclusive invite-only event only for VR Surat consumers.

“It is my absolute pleasure to present ‘Glam Garba’ at VR Surat. The concept in itself will attract the youth to enjoy Navratri in a new avatar. There will be Bollywood, Spanish, Brazilian, house and electronic dance music mixed with traditional garba songs. The Runway at VR Surat gives me an opportunity to transform the Centre into a Night Club and present something truly unique for Surtis. So, put your dandiya sticks together... For Glam Garba!” said Raghav Sachar who was the main performer at VR Surat.

About Virtuous Retail

Established in 2007, Virtuous Retail (VR) is an institutionally owned developer-operator of community-oriented premium lifestyle shopping centres in India’s top cities. Virtuous Retail’s pan-India portfolio includes prime city centre locations in Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, Surat and Kolkata, making it the leading platform of quality real estate retail in one of the world’s most attractive consumer markets for organized retail.

Virtuous Retail combines global expertise and local knowledge to create high performance retail environments with strong urban connections. The company’s long term vision is to create new social hubs for the urban Indian consumer. It does this through "Connecting Communities™" – a platform for cultural festivals, public-private partnerships and cross-border collaborations that encourage civic pride, strengthen the local economy and enhance the city’s brand image. Virtuous Retail is sponsored by The Xander Group Inc., a leading emerging markets investment firm, which has committed US$ 600 MM in equity to the platform.

About Raghav Sachar

Raghav Sachar is an Indian singer, music director, and musician, who has the distinction of playing over 33 musical instruments. A graduate of the internationally acclaimed Monash University and Conservatory in Australia, Raghav started his musical journey at the age of four. With over 100 songs and 2000 shows to his credit, Raghav is a prolific and much-loved performer, who has also sung for movies, and released 12 albums, of which eight were for his own label. 

National Conference on Linking Growth Drivers of Food Processing Industries Market, Retails, Quality with Food Safety and Skills

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Friday,18 October, 2013 - GCCI Surendrababu Timblo Hall,

 Panaji,Goa

The food processing industry in India is one of the largest in terms of production, consumption, export and growth prospects. The government has been reinforcing this sector with various policy initiatives, to encourage value addition and commercialization of agricultural produce. However, there are still many challenges which are being faced by food processing industry that includes high levels of fragmentation in marketing and distribution of food products in India, growing concerns about food safety across developed and developing nations of processed foods, unorganized food retail and the requisite skilled manpower required in this sector.

Thus, it is now time for consolidation process of growth drivers by making corresponding changes in policies governing marketing, industrial development and skills as well as creating awareness about food quality and safety norms. In this context, ASSOCHAM in collaboration with the Ministry of Food Processing Industry and the Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry, is organising the “National Conference on Linking Growth Drivers of Food Processing Industries; Market, Retails, Quality with Food Safety and Skills on Friday 18th October 2013, 10.00 Hrs -13.30Hrs at GCCI Surendrababu Timblo Hall, Panaji,Goa.

Shri. Mahadev Naik, Minister for Industries, Govt.of Goa has kindly consented to be the Chief Guest at this conference. Industry Experts will also speak on various topics.

Strap yourselves in for Buddh International Circuit: A Race Against Time

PRESS RELEASE

National Geographic Channel, in association with Jaypee Sports, unveils a one-hour special documentary on India’s first ever Formula 1 racetrack

 

New Delhi, October 15, 2013: Just a couple of weeks shy of the 3^rd installment of the Indian Grand Prix, National Geographic Channel (NGC), in association with Jaypee Sports International Limited, unveiled their one-hour special documentary titled ‘Buddh International Circuit: A Race Against Time’. The documentary was launched at a special media screening held today at the iconic racetrack. Present at the event were Mr. Sameer Gaur, MD & CEO, Jaypee Sports International Limited, Ms. Debarpita Banerjee, VP - Marketing, NGC Network and Fox International Channels, and India’s first Formula 1 driver Narain Karthikeyan. The documentary will be aired on 25^th of October at 8 p.m. on NGC.

NGC is India’s leading infotainment channel known for its innovative content and programming. With this special documentary, NGC takes a look back at a crew of around 8000 people, as they battled adverse natural forces, strong winds, dust storms, heavy rains, and extreme heat, to make the daunting and inflexible deadline of building India’s first ever Formula 1 racetrack - The Buddh International Circuit.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Sameer Gaur, MD & CEO, Jaypee Sports International Limited, said, “The Buddh International Circuit brings pride to our nation as it has helped India make its mark on the global racing scene. While racing enthusiasts have been partaking of the thrill of F1 for 2 seasons now, very few have been privy to the hard work and dedication that have gone into the making of this sporting extravaganza. We are extremely happy to associate with NGC to put together this special documentary and are sure that F1 fans as well as NGC viewers will enjoy it.”

Ms. Debarpita Banerjee, VP – Marketing, NGC Network and Fox International Channels, said, “It has been our endeavor at NGC to entertain as well as inform, through our key franchises. In some, we showcase some of the best mega-structures of the world, taking the viewers, not just into the splendor but also the challenges of putting together such a mammoth project. The Buddh International Circuit stands as a symbol of one of the most awe inspiring Indian infrastructure projects in recent history. Against the backdrop of the upcoming Formula 1 season, documenting the resurrection of this world class racetrack has been a privilege for us. In sync with our brand philosophy 'Unlock', here is yet another special that will open up a lot of aspects about a subject India is getting increasingly passionate about. The ‘Buddh International Circuit: A Race Against Time’ documentary in association with Jaypee Sports, allows us to showcase the making of India's first ever formula 1 racetrack. And it has been one thrilling ride!”

Celebrated Formula 1 driver Narain Karthikeyan added, “The Indian audience over the past decade has started widening their horizons of interest and have accepted Formula one racing as one of the most exciting sports. They want to know more, witness more and engage better with the sport. Nat Geo's documentary will help fans better appreciate the massive efforts and resources put in creating one of the best racing circuits in the world.'”

While the frenzy surrounding the Indian Grand prix is already palpable, ‘Buddh International Circuit: A Race Against Time’ is all set to take Indian viewers on a rollercoaster of a ride. So strap yourselves in on the 25^th of October at 8 p.m., while you witness the making of India’s first F1 racetrack.

About National Geographic Channel India

National Geographic Channel India launched on July 1st, 1998. Its programming covers adventure and exploration, natural history, science, wildlife and people of the world. The National Geographic Channel on an average gets over 68 million viewers a month. 

About National Geographic Channels International

National Geographic Channels International (NGCI) inspires viewers through its smart, innovative programming that questions what we know, how we view the world and what drives us forward.  A business enterprise owned by National Geographic Ventures and FOX Entertainment Group, NGCI contributes to the National Geographic Society's commitment to exploration, conservation and education through its six channels: National Geographic Channel, National Geographic Channel HD, Nat Geo Wild, Nat Geo Wild HD, Nat Geo Adventure and Nat Geo Music.

Globally, National Geographic Channel (including NGC U.S., which is a joint venture of NGV and Fox Cable Networks Group) is available in more than 440 million homes in 171 countries and 38 languages.

 

The biggest cycling event Tour De India in its 2nd edition announces John Abraham as their brand ambassador

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Mumbai, 2013: As Godrej Eon Tour De India races ahead in its 2^nd edition, the property is ready to deliver the ultimate punch of dynamism and energy with the brand ambassador. The pioneering cycling event in the country being promoted by Maharashtra cycling Association, Tourism Ministry, UCI*, Cycling Federation of India (CFI)** and ID Sports announces John Abraham as its brand ambassador at the press briefing today. John’s quintessential blend of challenging his own limits make him an ideal connect with Tour De India, which stands to believe ‘You are the Engine’. Godrej Eon Tour De India has shot an advertising campaign that showcases your vigor to ride a cycle. With John Abraham as the new face, Godrej Eon Tour De India is reinforcing its strong bond and connects with cycling enthusiasts through creativity, commerce, education and technology.

Speaking ahead of the race 2013, Akil Khan, Chairman Managing and Director ID Sports said, “Committed to drive participation and aiming to make cycling, a national sport, Godrej Eon Tour de India in 2013 could not be more proud to welcome John into the Godrej Eon Tour De India family. Godrej Eon Tour De India stands for awakening the masses to make a change and with John’s suave and charismatic personality, we are sure to epitomize Godrej Eon TDI’s ideology of empowering individuals to be the engine. In the first year of Godrej Eon Tour de India we saw celebrity grand prix at F1 Circuit and this year we are excited about John being a part. John symbolizes all that Godrej Eon Tour De India stands for. He is a representation with intelligence, grace and a trendsetter who has always stood by his passion for sports along with an incredible blend of warmth with a vivaciousness and untiring charm. His connect with the common man and the highest segment of personalities shows his incredible versatility and makes him fit seamlessly into Godrej Eon Tour De India.”Expressing his excitement, John Abraham said, “It is a pleasure to lend myself to India’s noisiest and biggest cycling event that makes its presence felt. Godrej Eon Tour De India (TDI) stands for redefining the evolution of cycling and it is a great privilege for me to be associated with it. I tend to endorse brands very selectively as I need to relate to the brand and believe in it in my heart.”

Godrej Eon Tour De India’s new campaign underlying ethos is about the spirit of the multi-faceted achiever who is the best in the world and hence deserves the best of all that the world has to offer. It deals with all the attributes associated with John which act as a representative of this changing face of the Indian youth be it health, sporting spirit or enjoyment. Moving forward ID Sports will be announcing the presenting sponsor soon!   

 

ID Sports: Tour de India 2012 is a multiple-city cycling race promoted by ID Sports. ID Sports is India's only company to bring International Cycling to India and lay the foundation of professional cycling races in India since 2010. Promotion of cycling as a sport and simultaneously State Tourism has always been one of the defining factors of various Cyclothons, Godrej Eon Tour de India organized by ID Sports. ID Sports is a IPR- Intellectual property rights holding company and is keen to foray into alternate non-cricketing sports.

About Godrej Eon: The Company is one of the largest players of Home Appliances in India and has always delighted the consumer with relevant technology in a wide range of efficient products. In 1958, Godrej was the First Indian Company to manufacture Refrigerators and has become synonymous with the category. Godrej pioneered the launch of Polyurethane Foam (PUF) which became the new benchmark for the refrigerator industry. In the last year, Godrej has introduced more than 100 new products across various categories- Refrigerators, Air conditioners, Microwave Ovens and Washing Machines.  With new innovative technologies like Silver Shower technology in refrigerators, the revolutionary Green Balance Technology in Air conditioners, Insta-Cook in Microwave Ovens, Tilt Drum in Washing Machines etc, Godrej is redefining the technology space in the Indian Appliances context.

Vivanta by Taj President Mumbai presents On the Fly at Wink

PRESS RELEASE

Jon Qui and Pramod to fuse traditional and electronic music

Mumbai, October 2013: Vivanta by Taj President Mumbai is pleased to announce On the Fly at Wink on Friday, October 25, 2013 from 9.30pm onwards. The event is a novel offering for music lovers to experience a unique electro fusion. Artists Jon Qui and Pramod will put forth an exclusive rendition of traditional music instruments fused with electronic music.

Mr. Pankaj Sampat, GM, Vivanta By Taj President Mumbai, said, “We are ecstatic to be associated with unique events such as this. The event reiterates the USP of Vivanta by Taj of supporting dynamism and innovation and it is a pleasure to be able to provide a platform for emerging talents like Jon Qui and Pramod. We would like to invite all music enthusiasts to experience On the Fly and experience an exclusive electro-traditional fusion.”

On the Fly is one of the many initiatives undertaken by Vivanta by Taj President Mumbai that will portray its core values of creativity, radiance and vibrancy and keep up with the Taj philosophy of giving back to the community. The name ‘Vivanta' draws inspiration from the term ‘bon vivant', signifying sophistication and appreciation for the good things in life and also from the attributes of vividness and vivacity.

Jon Qui, a multi percussionist, is a graduate in Tabla & has trained with Ustad Allarakha. He is a member of CMA (Cine Musicians' Association, Mumbai) and is known as one of the best CLUB percussionist in India. He was born in Assam is based in Mumbai, India. He has performed across the globe, including at Basel World, Switzerland, Dusseldorf festival in Germany, Singapore art festival and World Social Forum in Kenya.

Pramod Sippy, aka DJ Pramz, is one of the youngest DJs to be named as Mumbai’s “Most Influential DJs of all Times” and also the most talented electronic dance music practitioners. His eclectic tastes in techno, house, minimal and progressive have bagged him residencies at some of the most cutting-edge venues in Mumbai. He has gigged throughout venues in Europe and was also specially featured at the Cologne Pop festival 2010, as one of the DJs to watch out for from India. Shalom Peace Festival, New Delhi, Lucknow Mahotsav, Qutub Festival, New Delhi, Kala Ghoda festival, Mumbai etc. Pramod was performing with Kailash Kher's band Kailasa for 3 years, but he is independent since last few years. Played with more than 200 leading djs across the Globe.

Discover VivantaWork hard and play hard. Relax and energize. Ideate and confer. Evolve and transform. Revel in a spirit that presents the normal with an unexpected twist. Stylish and sophisticated, Vivanta by Taj delivers premium hotel experiences with imagination, energy and efficiency. Currently comprised of 26 hotels and resorts in India and the Indian Ocean region, Vivanta by Taj is represented across key metropolitan capitals as well as popular holiday destinations like Goa, Kerala, Rajasthan, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Vivanta by Taj offers an imaginative, vivacious and stylish take on ‘cool luxury’. With innovative cuisine, energetic spaces, unique motifs, the smart use of technology and experiences that seek to constantly engage, invigorate and relax, it appeals to the cosmopolitan world-traveler immersed in a sensory lifestyle. 

About Taj Hotels Resorts and PalacesEstablished in 1901, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is one of Asia's largest and finest group of hotels, comprising 100 hotels in 58 locations across India with an additional 17 international hotels in the Maldives, Malaysia, Australia, UK, USA, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Africa and the Middle East. From world-renowned landmarks to modern business hotels, idyllic beach resorts to authentic Grand Palaces, each Taj hotel offers an unrivalled fusion of warm Indian hospitality, world-class service and modern luxury. For over a century, The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, the iconic flagship has set a benchmark for fine living with exquisite refinement, inventiveness and warmth. Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is part of the Tata Group, India's premier business house.

Anushruti : IIT Roorkee’s social initiative - A Boon for the Hearing Impaired

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There is a ray of hope for parents of special children who lack economic clout, but want their wards to receive education

Roorkee, October 05, 2013:  IIT Roorkee faculty members and students have joined hands to break the social barriers and prejudices in the society against the hearing impaired. Founded on November 11, 1989, Anushruti is a humble social initiative of its own kind, growing under the aegis of IIT Roorkee. Committed towards delivering quality education to specially abled children in and around Roorkee, this NGO has risen as one of the finest initiatives at national level. With an excellent team of highly qualified and dedicated faculty and staff, supported by the management of IIT Roorkee, Anushruti aims to impact as many lives as possible and nurture their lives through unmatched professional contributions in sectors of education and research. Hearing impaired children from across Uttarakhand including cities like Muzaffarnagar, Saharanpur, Deoband, come to the School to receive high quality education under National Institute of Open School (NIOS) Currently there are over 100 students at the school , who face many challenges in their daily lives.

Since hearing impaired is a hidden  disability, often parents do not recognize the seriousness of it till the child is much older and crossed early learning years. . On recognizing these needs, Anushruti  - formally known as theb ‘Roorkee School for the Deaf’ was founded with the aim of acting as a catalyst to provide services to the hearing impaired. In an age when a pre-primary school for the hearing impaired is still a rare concept, Anshruti  opened its doors and provides full fledged 10 + 2 education for through ORAL AURAL TECHNIQUES using various assistive technologies, device and teaching aids. Anushruti also organizes a number of skill development / vocational training programs like miming, choreography, dramatics, photography, computer, photography, hospitality, apparel and accessory designing and craft and visual design etcto improve skills of the students in various vocational fields.  . Anushruti is currently providing free diagnostic, audiometric and speech therapy facilities to the Community as ‘Service to the Society’.

The academic infrastructure consists of development and creation of engineering workshops for wood work, tailoring, designing etc.  Development of a  play zone and creation of an e-library with adequate state of the art computing facilities are provided to the students.

Speaking on the occasion, Anasuya Banerji, President of Anushruti, says “Anshruti is the first school for hearing impaired in a Hi tech Institute of national importance. It is a daunting task for a child with hearing impairment to understand sounds and develop language & communication skills, which in turn affects the child’s personal development and process of reasoning and education. We realize the importance of understanding the tangible and intangible nature of the work we do and we work towards creating positive feelings, self image amongst families and children with hearing disabilities. It is important that these hearing impaired children need training from early age. Moreover, we envision to minimize the disabling barriers in the education process of these special children through greater scientific support.”

Anasuya Banerji firmly believes, “Anushruti stands at the thresholds of embarking a new journey of new dreams through you, Life is a celebration. Nature is bountiful, let us join hands, share, care and enjoy in giving! None of us can do everything, but everyone can do something.”

The school also has a computer lab with special softwares for hearing impaired. Special educators specialized in fields like auditory training; speech therapy and language training, are the supporting system for the school. The organization conducts numerous guidance and counseling sessions for economically and socially backward parents. Life at Anushruti is a showcase that narrates the tale of how silence is nurtured to make a life out of it and provides an apt platform for several National Service Scheme (NSS) activities of IIT Roorkee.

Vivek Handa, a young talented professional who has been recognized by Sonia Gandhi herself for his astonishing talent in photography and painting, has mastered in various activities and has been honored with over 50 prizes in academics as well as co curricular domains like photography, fine arts, etc. Like any twenty year old-someone pursuing his studies, he has many aspirations in life but by his saunter, who knew that he could ever be challenged with hearing impaired. Vivek’s walks of life have also been covered by NDTV as they have telecast a documentary on him featuring as a ‘Photographer with a difference’. Currently, Vivek is a graduate and is employed with State Bank of India at IIT Roorkee as one of the finest employees.

. More than 4500 people so far have been counseled, diagnosed  and treated. Anshruti makes all possible efforts to ensure and make this dream a reality for all those specially abled children with hearing impairments who come under it’s umbrella.

About Anushruti

Evolved from a confluence of two words anu (meaning small) and shruti (meaning sound), Anushruti,is a humble social initiative of IIT Roorkee engaged in the nurturance and education of children with hearing impairments since 1989. Today, after a journey of almost 24 years, Anushruti is a home to approximately 109 students with hearing impairments to receive education under its portal from neighbouring towns and cities as far as 60 kms from Roorkee. Founded and run on the principles of a Community supported model, Anushruti projects a strong platform for the growth of these children through its educational process and vocational training. The students at Anushruti carry a multifarious range of talents and activities including art and craft, photography, cooking and catering, stitching and tailoring, etc. in addition to their routine education.  With a set of dedicated teachers and staff members, Anushruti welcomes everyone to connect, contribute and support the lives of these children with deafness and lead them towards a future full of confidence and brightness.

LifeCell Launches World’s Most Affordable Stem Cell Banking Solution on the eve of 25th Anniversary of Life-saving Umbilical Cord Transplants

PRESS RELEASE

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan advocates stem cell banking as the best gift for the child and endorses LifeCell

Mumbai, October 7, 2013: LifeCell, India’s largest and most accredited stem cell banking company today announced the launch of world's most affordable stem cell banking solution. Umbilical cord blood stem cells have been used for over 25 years for more than 30,000 successful transplants world over.

This announcement coincided with the global observance of the 25th anniversary year of stem cell treatments using umbilical cord blood. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, a patron of LifeCell and goodwill ambassador for stem cell banking reinforced the value of stem cell banking on the occasion and stated this as the best gift parents can give for their child. With over a lakh of children’s stem cells banked in India, the private stem cell banking industry in India stands at Rs. 200 crores, and is estimated to touch Rs. 2700 crores by 2020, accounting for 17 percent of the world’s market. More and more parents are recognizing the importance of banking their child's umbilical cord blood in the event that their child needs a lifesaving transplant treatment in the future.

Mayur Abhaya, Managing Director & CEO, LifeCell said “At LifeCell, we understand the importance of educating expectant parents about the value of umbilical cord banking and are committed to reaching out to maximum number of families. We are proud to celebrate 25 lifesaving years of umbilical cord transplant globally by offering parents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bank their baby's cord blood at the most affordable prices. We currently have over 80,000 customers in India who have preserved their baby’s stem cells with us and we see this growing many fold over the next few years aided by awareness and affordability, thereby potentially making us from India’s largest stem cell bank to the world’s largest stem cell bank.

Umbilical Cord Banking is becoming increasingly popular for expecting parents as a unique form of insurance since it provides them the assurance about their child’s safe, healthy and secure future. As a Patron of LifeCell and Goodwill Ambassador for Stem Cell Banking, Aishwarya Rai said "It is a privilege to educate expectant parents on the significance of banking umbilical cord stem cells since it can secure your baby’s future health against many serious medical conditions. Also advancing stem cellresearch would only increase the benefits”.

At the time of Aaradhya’s birth, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan opted for banking her daughter’s stem cells with LifeCell owing to its efficient facilities, trust and values. She added “The most important role in my life is that of being a mother. Choosing to bank our baby's umbilical cord stem cells with LifeCell is a treasured gift that will stay with her for life and is an investment for her healthy future. LifeCell’s dual storage, comprehensive insurance packages for total security and complete stem cell service solutions including research and therapy gives me confidence that it is the world's most accredited stem cell bank.”

Some other celebrities who have chosen LifeCell for their children include Hrithik & Suzanne Roshan, Raveena Tandon & Anil, Manyata & Sanjay Dutt and Madhavan apart from many others.

Umbilical cord has been the number one source of stem cells for treatment of children in US & Japan and umbilical cord banking is regarded as an essential service globally. In 2005, there were less than 25 stem cell banks worldwide, but now in 2013, there are approximately 500 banks globally with one bank in almost every major country. LifeCell is the first company to bring the revolutionary concept of umbilical cord stem cell banking to India in 2004 in technological collaboration with Cryo-Cell International. Since then, LifeCell has been a leading cord blood bank providing transplant quality stem cells that can be used in thousands of successful treatments. Laws have been enacted in US to create awareness on cord blood banking, and financial aid is provided in countries like Singapore. India lags behind world indicators significantly with extremely low public cord blood units and lack of bone marrow donors. Therefore, there is a dire need to address both awareness and affordability to increase adoption of stem cell banking.

About Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Banking:

The umbilical cord is rich in life-saving stem cells that can only be collected at birth, and can be preserved for a lifetime. Umbilical cord banking is a safe and simple procedure wherein the baby’s umbilical cord blood and tissue are collected within 10 minutes after the baby is born. This procedure causes no harm to the mother or baby. The collected sample is transported to the laboratory where it is processed, and preserved in a safe and secure environment at minus 196 degrees centigrade. These stem cells have the potential to treat over 80 medical conditions including blood disorders, immune diseases with ongoing research continuing to bring about additional benefits using these cells. Moreover these preserved stem cells can be used for treatment of the baby’s siblings too as they are a better match and have improved outcomes, and it’s no wonder they are the #1 source of stem cell treatments for children in US & Japan.

About LifeCell:

Established in 2004, LifeCell is India’s first and largest stem cell bank, enjoying the trust of over 80000 parents who have banked their children’s stem cells with the company. With state-of-the-art facilities and a spread over 100 centers in the country and footprints in GCC countries, LifeCell is also the most recommended stem cell bank by gynecologists. The company has accreditations from international organizations for standards such as American Association of Blood Banks (AABB), College of American Pathologists (CAP), WHO & National Accreditation Board for Testing & Calibration Laboratories (NABL). LifeCell is also the only player in the industry providing comprehensive stem cell solutions including menstrual stem cell banking, R&D and point-of-care stem cell therapy for orthopedic, vascular and cardiovascular specialties.

UFF YOO MAA - A fundraising event by Tata Medical Centre and The Taj Group of Hotels celebrating 100 glorious years of Indian Cinema

PRESS RELEASE

Mumbai, October 6, 2013: The Taj Mahal Palace, one of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks, recently celebrated 100 years of Indian cinema with a special musical gala - ‘UFF YOO MAA’. The Taj Group of Hotels along with the Tata Medical Centre presented a theatrical show that brought together all the glorious moments of 100 years of Bollywood cinema in 100 minutes.

The event held at the quintessential The Taj Mahal Palace that completes its 110^th year anniversary this year, was anchored by Mrs. Geeta Gopalakrishnan, Honorary Director – Donor Relationships, Tata Medical Centre and well-known actor Vivan Bhathena. The event representing ten decades of Bollywood witnessed a display of rare film posters and also a musical show by Zee - Sa Re Ga Ma Pa winners. Renowned singer Usha Uthup took the guests back in time with some of her nostalgic numbers. 

The evening commenced with guests sipping Bollywood inspired cocktails at the ‘Chandni Bar’ themed ballroom. The Crystal Room was redesigned to represent a movie set where a Durga Puja scene was being shot.

The highlight of the star-studded evening was anecdotes shared by both yesteryear and young celebrities including Waheeda Rehman, Asha Parekh, Shabana Azmi, Amin Sayani Javed Akhtar, Vishal Bhardwaj, Soman Kapoor and Aditi Rao Hydari. This was the first time that an event of this scale saw Bollywood royalty coming together to share their personal industry experiences.

Mrs. Geeta Gopalakrishnan, Honorary Director – Donor Relationships at the Tata Medical Centre said, “An overwhelming number of celebrities came forward to support the cause, all had personal reasons of their own. The event witnessed magical moments when these celebrities related unusual anecdotes of their experiences and they walked down the nostalgic memory lane. Through this fundraiser we are raising funds for the urgent expansion of the hospital as well creating a corpus for the treatment of under privileged patients which are currently pouring into the Centre. Just like our generous celebrities and guests who supported us for this fundraiser, we hope to receive immense support from everyone to help us accomplish our dream.”

The elaborate meal specially crafted by Chef Hemant Oberoi was divided into themed menus; Salaam Mumbai menu included Pao Bhaji, Keema Pao, Kathi Rolls while The Khatta Meetha menu comprised of Bhel Puri, Sev Batata Puri and Chennai Express included Medu Wada, Dal Wada among other favorites.

The proceeds from the play went towards expansion of Tata Medical Center’s hospital in Kolkata to treat underprivileged cancer patients from the Eastern and North-Eastern regions of India. With an ambience reverberating of the charm and glamour of Bollywood, the evening was a perfect blend of entertainment and a noble cause.

About The Tata Medical Center

The Tata Group has gifted a Rs. 350 crore non-profit (approx. £46 million), world-class cancer hospital in Kolkata, to the people of East India. The Tata Medical Center was inaugurated by Mr. Ratan Tata on 16th May 2011. The hospital provides the entire spectrum of services from prevention, diagnosis and therapy to rehabilitation and palliative support for patients. 50% of the beds in this hospital are reserved for the underprivileged and the hospital currently houses 167 beds and we are planning to increase it by another 200 beds. It is equipped with modern facilities and currently has 35 specialist doctors.

About Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces

Established in 1901, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is one of Asia's largest and finest group of hotels, comprising 104 hotels in 64 locations across India with an additional 17 international hotels in the Maldives, Malaysia, Australia, UK, USA, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Africa and the Middle East.  From world-renowned landmarks to modern business hotels, idyllic beach resorts to authentic Grand Palaces, each Taj hotel offers an unrivalled fusion of warm Indian hospitality, world-class service and modern luxury.  For over a century, The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, the iconic flagship has set a benchmark for fine living with exquisite refinement, inventiveness and warmth.  Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is part of the Tata Group, India's premier business house.