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Power Shock in UP: Electricity Becomes Costlier with New 10% Surcharge

Lucknow: Residents of Uttar Pradesh are set to face another financial burden amid rising prices of petrol, diesel, CNG, and PNG. The Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) has decided to increase electricity bills by imposing a 10% fuel surcharge on consumers.

According to UPPCL, electricity bills issued in June 2026 will include an additional 10% fuel surcharge, effectively increasing the overall cost of power consumption for consumers across the state.

Significant Burden on Consumers

The management of UPPCL has issued orders to recover the fuel surcharge for March 2026 through electricity bills generated in June. In its order, the corporation stated that the applicable fuel surcharge should be 20%, indicating that consumers may face another 10% surcharge in their July bills as well.

Consumer Council Opposes Fuel Surcharge Recovery

The State Electricity Consumer Council has strongly objected to the recovery of the 10% fuel surcharge. The council alleges that power distribution companies have inflated the surcharge amount by including pending dues from the past two years.

The council has urged the Chief Minister to order an investigation into the matter and has also requested the Electricity Regulatory Commission to stay the implementation of the surcharge order. Notably, a similar 10% fuel surcharge was recovered from consumers in February this year.

Questions Raised Over Power Purchase Costs

The Consumer Council further pointed out that the Electricity Regulatory Commission had approved an actual power purchase cost of ₹4.94 per unit in its tariff order. However, UPPCL reportedly calculated power purchases for March 2026 at ₹5.86 per unit, resulting in an additional burden of approximately ₹1,610 crore on consumers.

The council has argued that this discrepancy needs thorough examination before any further surcharge is imposed on electricity users in the state.

May 30, 2026
1521 Paramount Floraville Buyers Set for Home Ownership. Developer clears authority dues worth 80 cr

Noida 30th May 2026: There’s significant relief for 1,521 homebuyers of the Paramount Floraville Group Housing Project in Sector 137, Noida. The project, which had been mired in administrative difficulties for a long time, has now become clearer. The developer, in coordination with the Noida Authority, has settled all outstanding liabilities related to the project, removing obstacles related to registration and ownership. The developer paid ₹80.48 crore to the authority.

Sprawling across approximately 12.375 acres, this residential project comprises 16 towers, comprising 1,521 flats. Fourteen towers received occupancy certificates on March 10, 2015, but financial disputes with the authority caused some buyers to wait for extended periods for registration. Through coordination between the developer and the authority, the project has now been resolved. Occupancy certificates for the remaining two towers have also been issued on January 31, 2024.

It has been reported that the developer was already making payments to the authority “under protest.” Meanwhile, a system for settling outstanding dues for stalled projects was implemented, in accordance with the recommendations of the Amitabh Kant Committee, constituted by the Uttar Pradesh government. Its purpose was to ensure payment of the actual amount due by rationalising interest and penalties. Under this system, the developer paid all outstanding dues and resolved the remaining dues, directly benefiting buyers.

The Paramount Floraville project is currently not under the purview of the UP RERA and no longer has any outstanding financial dues. The previous dispute with the authority regarding outstanding dues had reached the High Court, which is still pending. Despite this, the company, prioritising the interests of buyers, deposited the outstanding amount “under protest” and initiated the registration process, which is now proceeding smoothly.

This initiative has given hope to families who have been waiting for the registration of their homes for years to soon receive ownership of their homes.

May 30, 2026
Shree KB Group Announces Rs 422 Crore Investment in Flagship Mall KB West Walk in Greater Noida West

Delhi-NCR, 30 May 2026: Shree KB Group, a prominent real estate developer in the National Capital Region (NCR), announced a ₹425 crore investment in its flagship commercial project, KB West Walk, a state-of-the-art mall in Greater Noida West. This strategic development underscores the Group’s commitment to transforming the region’s retail landscape with sustainable, high-quality infrastructure.

Spanning 2.9 acres of prime land, KB West Walk will feature a total leasable area of 7.50 lakh square feet. The project allocates approximately ₹122 crore for land acquisition and ₹300 crore for construction, positioning it as a landmark destination for shoppers, diners, and entertainment seekers. The mall will have 1290 unit for selling and leasing.

Expected lease rentals of around ₹250 per square foot highlight its strong revenue potential amid rising demand in Greater Noida West.Designed as a green building certified mall, KB West Walk will prioritise sustainability through energy-efficient systems, eco-friendly materials, and smart infrastructure. The project is slated for completion by October 2030, aligning with the rapid growth of Greater Noida West as a thriving commercial hub.

Rakesh Singhal, Founder, Shree KB Group ‘We are proud to unveil our flagship commercial project in Greater Noida West. KB West Walk will primarily operate on a leasing model,We are already in advanced discussions with top retail, F&B, and entertainment brands to deliver an exceptional experience for mall customers.’”

Established in 2005, Shree Kunj Bihariji Group stands as one of Greater Noida’s most trusted real estate developers, renowned for delivering high-quality commercial and residential projects with unwavering commitment to excellence and timeliness. The group has successfully completed KB Complex—a 145,000 sq. ft. commercial landmark that redefined organized retail and business leasing, achieving full occupancy within six months of launch

Through these initiatives, the group has delivered over 550000 sq.ft. of premium residential and commercial space worth Rs.800 cr with projects like KB Mart reinforcing its legacy of innovation, reliability, and sustainable growth in the NCR real estate landscape.

May 30, 2026
TOP 5 INDIAN ACTRESSES MAKING INTERNATIONAL WAVES: FROM PRIYANKA CHOPRA JONAS TO SHEENA CHOHAN AND RADHIKA APTE

Indian actresses are increasingly gaining international visibility through global film releases, festival appearances, streaming platforms, and cultural summits. Recent international coverage across Cannes, global OTT releases, and cross-border collaborations highlights how Indian talent is steadily shaping worldwide entertainment narratives.

Here are five Indian actresses currently making a significant international impact:

Priyanka Chopra Jonas – Established Global Entertainment Presence

Priyanka Chopra Jonas continues to maintain strong international visibility through Hollywood projects and global streaming releases. She has recently been in international news for her upcoming slate, including The Bluff and Heads of State, reinforcing her continued presence in mainstream Hollywood and cross-border cinema collaborations.

Sheena Chohan – Emerging International Artistic and Cultural Identity

Sheena Chohan has gained international recognition with two films showcased at the Cannes Bharat Pavilion, strengthening her presence on the global festival circuit. She is set to expand further with her upcoming Hollywood release Nomad, along with Bhaayava, where she portrays a She-Devil in an international crossover character-driven role. Known for her disciplined craft approach, she is also widely recognized for deeply researching and fitting into her characters, consistently working across independent and international-facing cinema. She was recently honored at the International Art Summit in Florida with an Artist Ambassador Cultural Impact Award for her contribution to performance and artistic representation on global platforms.

Alia Bhatt – Continued Global Festival and Fashion Visibility

Alia Bhatt continues to gain international attention through a blend of Indian and global projects, with growing visibility at Cannes and other international platforms. Her expanding presence across both Bollywood cinema and global collaborations reflects her evolving position within contemporary worldwide entertainment culture.

Radhika Apte – Independent Cinema and International Festival Recognition

Radhika Apte remains a strong presence in global independent cinema, with consistent international streaming projects and crossover films. She has also been associated with BAFTA-linked recognition and continues to be widely acknowledged for her deeply immersive, research-driven character work across internationally oriented storytelling spaces.

Huma Qureshi – Strong Presence in Festival and Global Indie Circuits

Huma Qureshi has recently been visible in international festival circuits, including Cannes, and continues to build a strong crossover profile through diverse film projects. Her work across mainstream cinema and independent international collaborations has positioned her as a consistent presence in globally connected storytelling platforms.

Conclusion

From globally established stars to emerging artistic voices, Indian actresses are increasingly shaping international entertainment narratives through cinema, streaming platforms, festival circuits, and cultural collaborations. Together, they represent a significant shift in the global entertainment landscape — one where Indian actresses are no longer simply participating in world cinema, but actively contributing to and influencing its evolving cultural storytelling.

May 26, 2026
From Logbooks to AI-Powered Care: Samsung Marks 30 Years of Customer Service in India
- Samsung today operates one of India’s largest customer service networks with 3,000+ service touchpoints, 12,500+ engineers
- Samsung’s customer service journey mirrors India’s digital transformation — from manual service logs and pagers in the 1990s to AI-powered diagnostics and connected care today
- Customers today can access support through SmartThings-enabled Proactive Care, WhatsApp, remote diagnostics, online booking and voice assistance in 10 Indian languages
GURUGRAM, India – May 25, 2026 – Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, marks 30 years of its customer service journey in India, tracing its evolution from a small service operation in Delhi in the mid-1990s to one of the country’s largest and most digitally-connected customer care ecosystems.

When Service Was Still Analog

The story of Samsung’s customer service evolution closely mirrors India’s own technological transformation

— from an era of handwritten complaint registers, pagers and physical service visits to AI-powered diagnostics, connected appliances and predictive care ecosystems.

When Samsung opened its first service centre in India in March 1996, the country looked very different. Phones and internet were rare and customer requests were manually recorded in registers resting on crowded office desks.

“Back then, customer care was deeply personal in the most literal sense. Customers often walked directly into service centres because telephones were not common in homes. Service requests were manually entered into registers, and engineers travelled across cities carrying logbooks, paper slips and toolkits,” said Rajiv Gupta, Director, Service Operations, Samsung India.

By December 1996, Samsung had already expanded to 21 service centres across India. In 1997, engineers began using pagers to receive customer alerts — a small but important technological leap at the time.

Building the Infrastructure of Trust

As India’s consumer technology market rapidly expanded, Samsung continued scaling its customer support ecosystem. The late 1990s saw the growth of franchise service centres across the country, while 2003 marked another major milestone with the launch of Samsung’s first in-house call centre at Nehru Place in Delhi and the introduction of a toll-free customer support number.

Over the next two decades, Samsung steadily transformed customer service from a reactive support function into an integrated, technology-driven customer experience ecosystem.

Today, Samsung operates one of India’s largest customer service infrastructures with over 3,000 service touchpoints, 12,500+ trained engineers and 16 strategically located parts warehouses across the country.

“What truly defines Samsung’s customer service journey is how closely it has evolved alongside the lives of Indian consumers,” said Sunil Cutinha, Head, Customer Satisfaction, Samsung India.

“For us, customer service is not just a support function — it is a core part of the Samsung experience. Over the years, we have built a service ecosystem that combines scale, innovation and empathy. Whether through our extensive service network, contactless offerings like pick-up and drop, or next-generation service centres, our focus remains on delivering fast, transparent and reliable service that customers can trust every day,” he added.

Predictive Care

Samsung’s service ecosystem today extends far beyond physical service centres into AI-enabled proactive and connected care experiences.

Through SmartThings-enabled Proactive Care powered by Home Appliances Remote Management (HRM), Samsung appliances can proactively detect performance issues and notify customers even before disruptions occur. Refrigerators can alert users if cooling efficiency drops unexpectedly, while air conditioners can proactively communicate maintenance requirements.

Customers today can access 24×7 support through toll-free helplines, WhatsApp assistance, remote diagnostics and online appointment booking platforms. Samsung’s voice support services are available in 10 Indian languages, helping make customer support more accessible across regions.

The company has also strengthened digital-first support offerings such as Pick and Drop service for smartphones and the Digital Service Center platform, which provides self-help videos, troubleshooting support and transparent pricing information.

AI-driven customer support technologies — including intelligent co-pilots, speech-to-text systems and sentiment analysis tools — are additionally helping service teams respond faster and more empathetically to customer concerns.

Relationships that Last Forever

“Samsung has been a part of my life for three decades now. Our first television was a Samsung, and later the first smartphone I bought for my son was a Galaxy device. What has remained constant over the years is the trust and reliability associated with the brand,” said Sanjeev Gupta, a long-time Samsung customer from Ludhiana, Punjab.

Over the years, Samsung has also nurtured an ecosystem of service professionals through four training academies and its long-term skilling initiative, Dost Service. Through its partnerships with 22 ITIs, Samsung Dost Service has trained over 14,500 service engineers across India.

Extending Care into Sustainability

Samsung is also integrating sustainability into its customer care ecosystem through initiatives such as Care for Clean India, which promotes responsible e-waste disposal and recycling through authorized recyclers.

From Service Centres to Connected Care

As Samsung marks 30 years in India, its customer service journey reflects more than the evolution of technology. It reflects the evolution of care itself — from handwritten registers and pagers to AI-powered connected homes and predictive support, while continuing to place customer trust at the centre of innovation.
May 25, 2026
Oasis Group Targets ₹5,700 Crore Revenue by 2028; Launches AAGHAAZ Indian Artisan Single Malt Whisky to Strengthen Premium Portfolio

Building on huge success of All Seasons Whisky, Oasis Group expands into premium Indian spirits amid global expansion plans

The launch aligns with rising premiumization trends and growing global recognition of Indian spirits

NEW DELHI, May 23, 2026: Oasis Group has announced the launch of AAGHAAZ Indian Artisan Single Malt Whisky, reinforcing its premiumisation strategy as the company strengthens its presence in India’s fast-growing luxury spirits segment while advancing its long-term growth ambitions.

Led by the success of All Seasons Whisky, which has crossed 21 million cumulative global cases, Oasis Group continues to strengthen its position in India’s spirits industry. With eight distilleries and 14 bottling units across India, the launch of AAGHAAZ marks Oasis Group’s strategic entry into the premium Indian single malt category when Indian spirits are witnessing increasing domestic demand and growing international recognition
The launch builds upon Oasis Group’s expanding operational scale and premium growth strategy. The company currently produces nearly 360 million litres of ethanol annually, supporting beverage alcohol production alongside industrial requirements.

Speaking on the launch, the company chairman Deep Malhotra said:
“With AAGHAAZ, Oasis Group begins a new chapter in premium Indian whisky-making. This launch reflects our commitment to creating world-class spirits that combine Indian craftsmanship, authenticity and contemporary luxury. We remain focused on building globally competitive premium spirits originating from India while strengthening the country’s position in the evolving global premium spirits landscape.”

Produced using carefully selected Indian six-row barley sourced from Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and the Himalayan foothills, AAGHAAZ is distilled through traditional copper pot stills and matured in bourbon and oak casks in the Shivalik foothills. The whisky has also gained international recognition at the Monde Selection Awards 2026.

Aaghaaz single malt whisey begins its journey with pristine water flowing from the Shivalik foothills. The malt spirit then matured in the cool Himalayan climate, where the naturally coiling conditions allow it to evolve slowly, creating a whiskey rich in character and complexity.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Rich aromas of tropical fruits, vanilla, honey sweetness, and subtle peat

Palate: Smooth and luxurious with sweet fruit, warm spices, oak, and dried fruit character

Finish: Long, balanced, warming finish with soft peat and gentle sweetness

Led by Deep Malhotra, Chairman of Oasis Group, and Directors Gaurav Malhotra and Gautam Malhotra, Oasis Group reported approximately ₹3,500 crore in annual turnover and is targeting ₹5,700 crore revenue by March 2028, supported by premium portfolio expansion, operational growth, and international market development.

The Group is also strengthening its international presence across priority markets including Europe, North America, the UAE, Africa and Southeast Asia, while preparing additional premium launches spanning Indian single malts, luxury vodka, artisan vodka and Caribbean Rum expressions.

About Oasis Group: Founded in 1987, Oasis Group has established a strong footprint across the Indian alcobev industry with eight distilleries and 14 bottling units across the country. Under the leadership of Chairman Deep Malhotra and Directors Gautam Malhotra and Gaurav Malhotra, the Group has continued expanding both domestically and internationally, with exports now reaching multiple global markets.

www.oasisgrp.in

https://www.instagram.com/aaghaazsinglemalt?igsh=anRvMHlwbjA3bHVo

https://www.instagram.com/oasis.groupofcompanies?igsh=cjl5MGR6NGI4dnMz

May 23, 2026
Felix Plaza Opens as Gurugram’s New One-Stop Lifestyle and Retail Destination

Gurugram, Haryana – Felix Plaza, Gurugram’s newest premium lifestyle and retail destination, has officially opened in Sector 82A, strengthening the organised retail landscape in New Gurugram’s fast-growing residential corridor.

Spread across approximately 8 lakh sq. ft., the mall has been designed as a one-stop destination integrating shopping, dining, entertainment and community experiences for the evolving urban consumer. With over 150 Indian and global brands, Felix Plaza brings together fashion, beauty, electronics, leisure and F&B offerings within a premium, experience-led environment.

The mall features leading brands including H&M, Marks & Spencer, Lifestyle, Westside, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Guess, Birkenstock and Aldo, alongside anchors such as Cinepolis, Mr. DIY and Fun City. Felix Plaza also introduces exclusive-to-Gurugram brands including R&B Fashion, Skin Bae and Style Union.

Designed to encourage longer consumer engagement, the destination includes a 4-screen Cinepolis multiplex, Fun City, Fun Block, GameX arena and a dedicated 2-acre outdoor event space. Its dining offerings include a 600-seat food court along with popular names such as Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, Chaayos, Punjab Grill and Nando’s.

Commenting on the launch, a spokesperson for Felix Plaza said: “Retail in emerging urban corridors within Gurugram is evolving from transactional formats to experience-led destinations. At Felix Plaza, we have created a curated ecosystem that combines leading global and Indian brands with entertainment, dining and community spaces. Our vision is to build a destination that goes beyond shopping and contributes meaningfully to the next phase of organised retail growth in these high-potential corridors.”

Since its opening, Felix Plaza has witnessed strong early consumer response and continues to build momentum with upcoming brand launches and activations.

May 23, 2026
DreamSphere 2026 Comes to a Grand Close as Shikha Roy Graces Arts & Souls Foundation’s Event, Supported by Kaizzen
21^st May 2026, Delhi: Arts and souls foundation successfully concluded DreamSphere 2026 – Different Minds, Infinite Expressions, a three-day inclusive art exhibition held from 16th to 18th May 2026 at Bikaner House.

The exhibition celebrated the creativity, imagination, and artistic brilliance of 42 neurodiverse artists from across India, showcasing more than 170 artworks across varied themes and styles. From vibrant nature-inspired canvases and expressive abstract works to spiritual themes and intricate detailed compositions, the exhibition beautifully reflected the unique perspectives and infinite expressions of the participating artists.

Over the three days, DreamSphere transformed the gallery space into a celebration of resilience, individuality, hope, and creativity. Visitors experienced art that went beyond technique and aesthetics — each artwork carried a personal story, emotion, and voice, creating a powerful connection between the artists and the audience.

The exhibition was inaugurated by eminent contemporary artist Jatin Das and renowned child neurologist Dr. Shefali Gulati.

Speaking at the inauguration, Jatin Das appreciated the authenticity and emotional depth reflected in the artworks and said, “Art is the purest form of expression, and these artists remind us that creativity has no boundaries or definitions.”

Dr. Shefali Gulati highlighted the importance of acceptance and inclusion while speaking about neurodiverse individuals and said, “Being different does not mean being inferior. Just because some individuals with autism may communicate differently or may not speak, it does not mean they have nothing to say. Every individual has emotions, thoughts, and immense potential that deserve to be understood and valued.”

DreamSphere 2026 witnessed a remarkable footfall throughout the event, with visitors including art enthusiasts, architects, designers, educators, students, families, and members of the larger community who came together to celebrate and encourage the artists.

The closing ceremony was graced by Shikha Roy, MLA, Greater Kailash. She warmly encouraged everyone with her kind words. “Arts and Souls Foundation is truly doing a noble and meaningful service by bringing out the highest potential of individuals with special needs. It is absolutely commendable to see how, despite many challenges, these children continue to strive, create, and move forward in life with courage and determination. Initiatives like Dreamsphere not only celebrate talent but also inspire society to embrace inclusion with empathy and respect.”

Vineet Handa, CEO Kaizzen speaking on the organization’s association with Dreamsphere said, “DreamSphere is a celebration of expression, dignity, and possibility. Every artwork here carries a unique perspective and reminds us that creativity transcends definitions and boundaries. Kaizzen has been a proud partner of Arts and Souls Foundation and have been continuously advocating for the talented children of the foundation.”

Supported by Kaizzen and Fieldking, DreamSphere 2026 stood as more than an art exhibition — it became a celebration of courage, acceptance, inclusion, and the transformative power of creativity when nurtured with dignity and opportunity.

Event Details
- Event: DreamSphere 2026 – Art Exhibition
- Theme: Different Minds, Infinite Expressions
- Dates: 16th – 18th May 2026
- Venue: Bikaner House
- Organised by: artsandsoulsfoundation
- Participating Artists: 42 Neurodiverse Artists
- Artworks Displayed: 170+ Artworks
About Arts & Souls Foundation

Arts and Souls Foundation is dedicated to empowering neurodiverse and specially-abled individuals through art, creativity, and inclusive opportunities. The foundation creates meaningful platforms that encourage self-expression, artistic recognition, skill development, and financial independence for artists.

Through exhibitions, workshops, awareness initiatives, and collaborative projects, Arts & Souls Foundation continues to work towards building a more inclusive society that celebrates abilities, individuality, and creative expression beyond labels and limitations.
May 21, 2026
Riders Ki Baraat 2.0 Returns Bigger and Bolder to Omaxe Chowk with 1000+ Bikers, in Collaboration with OCPR

Omaxe Chowk, Chandni Chowk, came alive with unmatched energy as Riders Ki Baraat 2.0 roared through the heart of Delhi, bringing together 1000+ bikers for one of the capital’s most vibrant and visually spectacular community celebrations. Building on the huge success of its first edition, Riders Ki Baraat 2.0 returned bigger and grander, transforming the iconic lanes of Chandni Chowk into a lively celebration of biking, festivity, and togetherness.

The ride commenced from Zana Motorcycles, Naraina, and culminated at Omaxe Chowk, with bikers dressed in vibrant wedding-inspired attire and stylish riding jackets. As the grand baraat made its roaring entry, the atmosphere at Omaxe Chowk transformed instantly into a spectacle of celebration, with electrifying dhol beats, high-energy cheers, and festive fervour taking over Chandni Chowk, creating an unforgettable experience.

The event was graced by celebrity jury members Divya Sandhu, Simple Arora, Dr. Arun Taneja, Deepak Gupta aka Mountain Man, Pooja Thapa, Siddesh Yadav, and Suchitra Kaur, along with special guests Irfan Chaudhary, Himanshi Singh, and Harish from Bhumi Motors. Adding to the grandeur, fashion brands such as Surya, Libas, Odhni, Mohanlal Sons, White Hanger, Yeshan Sarees, and Perfume Point showcased their latest collections.

Conceptualized as a unique blend of India’s traditional wedding baraat culture and contemporary biker lifestyle, the event saw bikers dressed in royal baraat-inspired attire with beautifully decorated motorcycles, creating a vibrant parade that perfectly captured the spirit of tradition, celebration, and thrill.

The celebration featured an array of exciting activities, including wedding-themed games, fashion walks, and dance performances. Winners were announced amidst an electrifying DJ session, followed by a lucky draw.

Speaking on the tremendous success of the event, Jatin Goel, Executive Director, Omaxe Group, said:

“The response to Riders Ki Baraat 2.0 has been truly overwhelming and reflects the growing demand for unique community-driven experiences in Delhi. At Omaxe Chowk, our vision has always been to create destinations that go beyond retail and become hubs of culture, celebration, and engagement. This event beautifully brought together the excitement of biking with the timeless essence of Indian festivities, creating an experience that participants will remember for a long time.”

The event was powered by Zana Motorcycles and supported by prominent riding and automotive partners, including xBhp, Castrol, Manipal Hospital, Chopra Helmets, and Reise, with Bold & Beautiful and Makeover by Manveen joining as fashion partners, further elevating the scale and excitement of the celebration.

With the resounding success of “Riders Ki Baraat”, Omaxe Chowk continues to establish itself as Delhi’s go-to destination for high-energy events that seamlessly merge tradition with modern celebrations.

May 21, 2026
‘FRND Hai’ Campaign by FRND Promotes Human Connection During Mental Health Awareness Month

This Mental Health Awareness Month, FRND Highlights How Simple Conversations Can Help Young Indians Feel Less Alone

Bengaluru, May 19, 2026: Loneliness is no longer just a personal challenge — it is now recognised as a growing public health crisis. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in four people globally are affected by loneliness. In India, the situation is even more pressing, with over 200 million people living with mental health conditions, while conversations around emotional wellbeing continue to remain limited, particularly in Tier 2–4 towns where access to mental health support is scarce and stigma around vulnerability still exists.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, FRND — India’s avatar-based audio social discovery platform and the flagship product of Interact Group — has unveiled its latest campaign, ‘FRND Hai’, focused on creating awareness around the emotional struggles faced by young Indians and the importance of meaningful conversations in reducing loneliness, social anxiety, and everyday microstress.

‘FRND Hai’: A Reminder That Someone Is Always There to Talk To

Inspired by this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month theme, “More Good Days, Together,” the campaign is built around a simple yet powerful idea: sometimes all people really need is someone who will listen.

Through relatable and emotionally resonant “FRND Hai when…” moments, the campaign showcases how one honest conversation can positively shift someone’s emotional state — whether after a difficult day, a sleepless night, or moments of self-doubt and isolation.

To watch the campaign film, please visit:

Building Safe, Authentic Connections Beyond Social Media Validation

With nearly a million conversations taking place on the platform and users spending an average of over 30 minutes daily on FRND, the platform’s voice-first and avatar-based approach enables users to connect authentically without the pressures of appearance, social status, or curated online identities.

Designed primarily for users from India’s heartland, FRND fosters genuine interactions through conversations rather than profiles. To ensure a safe and respectful environment, the platform is supported by a 100-member moderation team alongside real-time AI-powered safety systems.

“Mental Health Is the Defining Wellbeing Challenge of Our Generation”

Commenting on the campaign, Bhanu Pratap Singh Tanwar said:

“Mental health is not an urban luxury — it is the defining wellbeing challenge of our generation. Yet for millions of young Indians, the first barrier is not access to resources, but simply having someone to talk to.

Through ‘FRND Hai’, we want to remind young India that no concern is ever too small to share. Sometimes, opening up for just one conversation can make a person feel lighter and less alone.

Whether someone is struggling after a difficult moment, dealing with stress, or simply looking for a non-judgmental listener, FRND ensures there is always someone available to talk to. For fun banter, friendly advice, or meaningful human connection — FRND Hai.”

A User Story That Reflects the Campaign’s Core Message

Sharing her experience, Maheshwari, a 35-year-old FRND user from Chennai, said:

“After my divorce, I was dealing with extreme loneliness, stress, and sleepless nights. Even though I was active on social media, I realised that followers and likes did not necessarily mean having someone to truly talk to.

When a friend introduced me to FRND, things began to change. For the first time, I found a space where I could express myself freely without fear of judgement — where I could simply talk, be heard, and feel valued.

FRND did not just help me cope emotionally; it helped me rediscover my confidence and voice. Today, I feel stronger, more connected, and emotionally healthier than I ever did while endlessly scrolling through social media. Sometimes, healing really begins with one honest conversation.”

Redefining the Future of Digital Communities in India

As digital communities continue to grow rapidly across Tier 2, 3, and 4 towns, the ‘FRND Hai’ campaign highlights a larger cultural shift: the future success of digital platforms will increasingly be measured not just by engagement numbers, but by their ability to help people feel genuinely connected and emotionally supported.

About FRND

Founded in 2019 by Bhanu Pratap Singh Tanwar and Harshvardhan Chhangani, FRND is India’s first avatar-based audio social discovery platform designed to enable empathetic social connections for users in Tier 2–4 towns and villages.

Built for users aged 18–35, FRND operates across ten Indic languages and offers a range of innovative social interaction features. FRND is the flagship product of Interact Group, which is building a next-generation interaction entertainment ecosystem spanning social discovery, voice experiences, social gaming, and AI-powered engagement for India’s next billion internet users.

May 19, 2026