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  • The Association of International Schools in India joins Safer Internet India coalition as institutional partner

    The Association of International Schools in India joins Safer Internet India coalition as institutional partner

    New Delhi, [21st April, 2026] – The Association of International Schools in India (TAISI) has joined the Safer Internet India (SII) coalition as an institutional partner, bringing the country’s network of international schools into one of India’s leading multi-stakeholder initiatives on online safety.

    The partnership will see TAISI and SII collaborate on a structured programme of training sessions for educators, students, and parents across TAISI’s member schools. The two organisations will also work together on resource development and school-level interventions designed to strengthen digital literacy and online safety practices from an early age.

    “Bringing TAISI into the coalition is a significant step for us,” said Berges Malu, Convenor of Safer Internet India. “Schools are where conversations about online safety have to begin, and partnering with an association of TAISI’s reach gives the coalition a direct line into classrooms across the country. Our shared goal is to move from awareness campaigns to practical, sustained engagement with the communities that need it most.”

    Under the partnership, SII will help create training modules on issues ranging from cyberbullying and online harassment to misinformation, financial scams targeting young users, and privacy hygiene. TAISI will help coordinate delivery across its member institutions and support the co- creation of materials suited to different age groups and learning contexts.

    “Our member schools have been asking for structured, credible support on online safety for some time,” said Syed Sultan Ahmed, Chairperson of TAISI. “Joining the Safer Internet India coalition lets us offer that support at scale. This is not a one-off workshop programme. It is a long-term commitment to building a culture of safer digital behaviour across our schools, and to making sure students, teachers, and parents are equipped to navigate the internet with confidence.”

    The collaboration is expected to roll out across TAISI member schools in phases over the coming academic year, with training sessions, teacher resources, and student-facing materials forming the first set of deliverables. Both organisations will also contribute to the coalition’s ongoing policy and research work on online safety in India.

    About Safer Internet India

    Safer Internet India is a multi-stakeholder coalition working to build a safer, more trustworthy internet for users in India. The coalition brings together civil society organisations, industry, academia, and institutional partners to advance research, training, and policy engagement on online safety.

    About TAISI

    The Association of International Schools in India is the apex body representing international schools across the country. TAISI works to raise standards of international education in India through professional development, research, advocacy, and collaboration among its member institutions.

  • Sooraj Barjatya Announces Yeh Prem Mol Liya with Ayushmann Khurrana & Sharvari – Release Date Out

    Sooraj Barjatya Announces Yeh Prem Mol Liya with Ayushmann Khurrana & Sharvari – Release Date Out

    Celebrated filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya has officially announced his next directorial venture, Yeh Prem Mol Liya. The film, produced by Rajshri Productions in association with Mahaveer Jain Films, is set to hit theatres on 27th November 2026, promising a heartwarming post-Diwali family entertainer.

    A Return After National Award Win

    Following his National Award-winning success with Uunchai (2022), Barjatya returns to the genre he is best known for—wholesome, emotionally rich family dramas that celebrate relationships and values.

    Prem Returns to the Big Screen

    One of the biggest highlights of the film is the return of Rajshri’s iconic character Prem, making a comeback after 12 years. This beloved character, synonymous with innocence and charm, will now be portrayed by Ayushmann Khurrana for the very first time, bringing his unique warmth and relatability to the role.

    Fresh Pairing with Sharvari

    Starring opposite Ayushmann is Sharvari, marking their first on-screen collaboration. Sharvari is set to embody the grace, strength, and depth typical of Rajshri heroines, while their fresh chemistry is expected to be a major highlight of the film.

    Music by Himesh Reshammiya

    Reuniting after over a decade, Himesh Reshammiya joins Barjatya for the film’s music. Their previous collaboration on Prem Ratan Dhan Payo (2014) delivered chart-topping hits, raising expectations for another memorable and melodious album.

    A Classic Family Entertainer

    At a time when Hindi cinema is dominated by action, horror, and large-scale spectacles, Yeh Prem Mol Liya aims to bring audiences back to theatres with a feel-good, family-centric story—something Rajshri Productions has long been celebrated for.

    Release Date Confirmed

    Directed by Sooraj Barjatya, Yeh Prem Mol Liya is all set to release in cinemas on 27th November 2026, inviting families to come together and celebrate love, values, and togetherness on the big screen.

  • Women Partner Onboarding Jumps 97% at InsuranceDekho; 54% of New Additions Come from Tier 3 Towns

    Women Partner Onboarding Jumps 97% at InsuranceDekho; 54% of New Additions Come from Tier 3 Towns

    • North India Leads Surge as Smaller Cities Drive Female Participation to Record High
    • Tier 3 Towns Emerge as hub of Women Micro-Entrepreneurs in Insurance

    Gurugram, 21st April 2026: InsuranceDekho, one of India’s  fastest-growing insurtech platform, today reported a near-doubling of women insurance partners onboarded on its platform from Q3 FY 2024-25 to Q3 FY 2025-26, a year-on-year growth of approximately 97%. Emerging data for Q4 FY 2025-26 indicates this momentum is accelerating, with female partners’ trajectory trending upwards of all new partner additions where gender has been declared.

    A striking aspect of the trend is its geographic character. Over 54% of all women partners onboarded by InsuranceDekho in Q3 FY 2025-26 came from Tier 3 cities, towns such as Unnao, Hapur, Karnal, Mathura and Godda, challenging the conventional narrative that women’s entry into financial services distribution is primarily an urban phenomenon.

    Unlike salaried roles, an insurance partner on a platform like InsuranceDekho is structurally a micro-entrepreneur sourcing her own clients, building a local book of business, and earning on the basis of policies sold. For women in smaller towns where formal employment options are limited, this model offers something rare: income, autonomy, and a professional identity, without requiring relocation or fixed working hours.

    Commenting on the growing participation of women in insurance distribution, Ankit Agrawal, Founder & CEO, InsuranceDekho said,  Insurance distribution in India is increasingly becoming a pathway to financial participation, especially for women in emerging markets. What we are seeing is not just higher participation, but a shift towards more individuals building independent, flexible income streams through insurance advisory. As the market expands, growth will be led by advisors who are deeply rooted in their communities. Our focus is to strengthen this ecosystem with the right platform and support, ensuring that expansion is both inclusive and sustainable.

    For InsuranceDekho, the North Zone registered the highest growth across all regions, with female partner additions rising substantially in Q3 FY26 compared to Q3 FY25; a 118% jump. Cities including New Delhi, Lucknow, Ghaziabad, Gurgaon, Jammu, among others contributed significantly. All four zones recorded steady growth, underscoring that the trend is not localised to one geography.

    After a marginal dip in female share in Q1 FY 2025-26, attributable to overall platform-wide onboarding seasonality. The organisation has recorded consecutive quarters of rising female participation, reaching 17.2% in Q3 FY26.

    InsuranceDekho’s data mirrors a broader structural shift in the Indian economy. India’s Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR) improved from 49.8% in FY2017-18 to 60.1% in FY2023-24, according to the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation’s ‘Women and Men in India 2024’ report. Female job applications in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities have grown exponentially, particularly in sales and business development roles, according to research by Invest India.

    The insurance partner model sits at the intersection of two of India’s fastest-growing workforce trends: the rise of women’s self-employment and the expansion of the platform-enabled gig economy into smaller cities. NITI Aayog projects India’s gig workforce to grow to 23.5 million by 2029-30, that is nearly three times its 2021 base. Within this, women in flexible, commission based roles in financial services represent one of the most economically consequential and undercovered cohorts. InsuranceDekho’s partner data offers one of the few granular, ground-level signals of this shift in action.

    Industry-wide, gender balance among insurance distribution partners remains a work in progress. InsuranceDekho’s current trajectory with the female share approaching 17% and growing, positions it as an active contributor to closing this gap.

    About 

    InsuranceDekho is one of India’s fastest-growing insurtech, reshaping the future of insurance by delivering inclusive financial protection at scale to individuals and businesses across Bharat. With a robust omnichannel model that seamlessly integrates AI-powered technology with human expertise, the platform ensures personalised onboarding, efficient servicing, and dependable support throughout the customer journey. Operating across ~1,500 cities and covering 98% of Indian pincodes, InsuranceDekho is supported by over 21 offices and a network of over 2.7 lakh+ partners. To date, it has insured 13,000+ businesses and continues to expand its reach across the country.

    Backed by marquee investors such as Goldman Sachs, TVS Capital, and MUFG, the company combines deep domain expertise with digital-first innovation. Its growing portfolio spans motor, health, life, travel, and corporate insurance, offering 750+ plans from 49 insurers. Enabled by a specialised team and a tech-driven service infrastructure, InsuranceDekho is aligned with the Government of India’s vision of “Insurance for All by 2047”, contributing to the broader goal of inclusive and sustainable financial security.

    Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter

  • Sesame Workshop India and Abbott launch Sehatmand Aadatein on Chalo! Sesame Street app

    Sesame Workshop India and Abbott launch Sehatmand Aadatein on Chalo! Sesame Street app

    New Delhi, 21-04-2026 : Sesame Workshop India, with support from global healthcare company Abbott, today announced the launch of ‘Sehatmand Aadatein – सेहतमंद आदतें’ on the Chalo! Sesame Street app. Developed as part of the Healthy Habits program, the new offering brings engaging, play-based nutrition learning into a digital format, helping children and families build healthy routines early and take small steps toward lifelong well-being.

    Earlier this year, Sesame Workshop India, with funding from Abbott, launched the Healthy Habits program in India, with a focus on helping children and families build routines around nutrition, physical activity, and daily habits from an early age. Introduced through on-ground engagement with Anganwadi centres and supported by culturally relevant, Hindi-language resources, the initiative emphasized sustained, long-term behaviour change by making health concepts simple, relatable, and easy to practice in everyday life. Building on this foundation, the introduction of ‘Sehatmand Aadatein – सेहतमंद आदतें’ on the Chalo! Sesame Street app extends these learnings into children’s everyday digital environments, making them more accessible, interactive, and easier to practice at home.

    Sehatmand Aadatein – सेहतमंद आदतें’ offers over 40 minutes of engaging, play-based content, along with 55 interactive assessments that encourage children to actively participate and learn. Through storytelling, music, and familiar Sesame Street characters, the content introduces young children to balanced diets, healthy food choices, and everyday habits that support their growth and development. Designed as a gamified, assessment-led experience, the modules encourage children to actively engage with the content and reinforce learning through play.

    Sesame Street app

    The launch builds on the growing reach of the Chalo! Sesame Street app, which has recorded approximately 158,000 installs since its inception. The app is a pedagogically informed, gamified at-home learning solution that supports foundational literacy, numeracy, social-emotional learning, and life skills for children aged 4–7 years. The app aligns with India’s foundational learning priorities under NIPUN Bharat Mission, supporting early literacy, numeracy, and life skills through engaging, child-friendly content. By combining entertainment with engagement, the platform encourages children not just to watch, but to participate, helping reinforce behaviours that support both physical health and emotional well-being as part of holistic early childhood development.

    Grounded in child development research and shaped by input from parents and caregivers, Sesame Workshop India encourages mindful media habits such as pausing to consider whether a moment with media supports learning, well-being, and family connection. The app incorporates features such as a screen usage timer to encourage breaks. This conscious design approach ensures that digital learning remains balanced, intentional, and supportive of healthy routines both on and off the screen.

    Built as a YouTube wraparound learning platform, the app leverages Sesame Workshop India’s strong digital content ecosystem to extend the value of its widely consumed video content into structured, goal-oriented learning journeys. Combining familiar Sesame Street videos with interactive, gamified assessments, the platform transforms passive viewing into active learning. Its distribution model integrates both direct-to-home access for families and institution-led engagement through teachers and Anganwadi workers, supported by features such as WhatsApp-based sharing and progress tracking dashboards. This blended approach reflects Sesame Workshop India’s strength in delivering impact at scale, bridging mass media reach with deeper, measurable learning outcomes. Integrating nutrition education into the platform, Sesame Workshop India continues to strengthen its approach to holistic early childhood development through a combination of on-ground interventions and digital learning solutions.

    By bringing the Healthy Habits program onto the app, Sesame Workshop India and Abbott aim to deepen engagement with children and caregivers beyond classrooms and community settings. The platform enables families to access trusted, easy-to-understand content and reinforces positive behaviours through repeatable, engaging experiences, supporting children in building healthy habits as part of their daily lives.

    Sonali Khan, Managing Trustee, Sesame Workshop India Trust said,

    “Today, many children are eating more packaged and sugary foods and spending more time in front of the screen. With Sehatmand Aadatein – सेहतमंद आदतें, we are trying to address these challenges by making it easier for children and caregivers to learn and practice healthy habits like good nutrition, regular physical activity, and proper sleep in a fun and engaging way. Through stories and interactive content, we help families not only understand these behaviours but also make them a natural part of their everyday routines.”

    Sesame Workshop India works to help children grow smarter, stronger, and kinder by combining play-based learning with mass media, digital platforms, and community outreach. Through initiatives like Healthy Habits, the organization continues to support children and families in building skills and behaviours that contribute to lifelong physical and emotional well-being.

  • Top 5 PR Agencies in Hyderabad You Should Know

    Top 5 PR Agencies in Hyderabad You Should Know

    Finding the best PR agencies in Hyderabad can be a game-changer for businesses looking to build strong brand visibility, credibility, and media presence in a competitive market. One of  the biggest challenges, whether it’s a startup or an MNC, is how the brand is perceived among the target audience. A closer look at leading PR agencies, along with their key services and industry focus, can offer valuable clarity for businesses aiming to align their communication strategies with their broader goals and audience expectations.

    Hyderabad’s PR landscape is powered not just by national networks but by strong local agencies with deep regional media connections and on-ground expertise. These firms understand the city’s business ecosystem, making them highly effective for targeted campaigns.

    1. Media Maniacs Group

    Overview:
    Media Maniacs Group is a full-service PR and communications agency known for its creative storytelling and integrated PR strategies. While headquartered in Delhi NCR, they have expanded their presence in Hyderabad and actively serve pan-India amongst digital and PR service landscapes.

    Key Services:

    • Public Relations (Digital & Traditional)
    • Website Development
    • Graphic Designing
    • Branding & Digital Marketing
    • Content & Storytelling

    Industries Served:
    Startups, healthcare, education, finance, lifestyle, and hospitality.

    Why Choose Them:
    They stand out for their integrated PR and digital approach, combining storytelling with measurable brand outcomes. They offer scalable strategies for startups to enterprises and deliver pan-India media reach with localised execution, making them ideal for Hyderabad-based brands aiming for broader visibility.

    2. Totem Advertising and PR

    Overview:
    A well-established PR firm with over two decades of experience, Totem is known for its strong relationships with regional media and deep understanding of Telangana markets.

    Key Services:

    • Press conferences & media briefings
    • Corporate PR & event management
    • Media relations and coverage

    Industries Served:
    Corporate brands, healthcare, automotive, and institutions.

    Why Choose Them:
    Their local media network and long-standing reputation make them a go-to agency for Hyderabad-focused PR campaigns.

    3. Ample Reach PR

    Overview:
    A Hyderabad-based boutique PR firm known for focused and high-impact communication strategies, especially for emerging brands.

    Key Services:

      • Brand communication
      • Media outreach
      • Strategic PR consulting

    Industries Served:
    Startups, SMEs, and corporate clients.

    Why Choose Them:
    They offer personalized PR strategies with strong regional media access.

    4. Ajanta Public Relations

    Overview:
    Ajanta PR is a locally rooted agency with 15+ years of experience, serving businesses across Telangana with integrated PR and marketing solutions.

    Key Services:

    • Media relations & crisis management
    • Digital marketing & content creation
    • Event management

    Industries Served:
    Healthcare, NGOs, infrastructure, education, and political organisations.

    Why Choose Them:
    Strong expertise in regional industries and public sector communication.

    5. Orion PR

    Overview:
    A strategic PR agency with a solid Hyderabad presence, known for corporate communications and crisis management expertise.

    Key Services:

    • Corporate PR
    • Crisis communication
    • Media relations
    • Branding & reputation management

    Industries Served:
    Multiple sectors, including corporate, startups, and public-facing brands.

    Why Choose Them:
    They bring a structured, strategy-first approach to PR with strong execution capabilities.

    Final Thoughts

    Choosing from the best PR agencies in Hyderabad ultimately comes down to understanding your brand’s goals, target audience, and the kind of visibility you want to achieve. Whether you’re a startup aiming for awareness or an established business strengthening your reputation, the right PR agency can play a crucial role in shaping your brand narrative and long-term growth.

  • Need to Shift from Prolonged Litigation to Arbitration and Mediation: Legal Experts at SILF-SLP Conclave

    Need to Shift from Prolonged Litigation to Arbitration and Mediation: Legal Experts at SILF-SLP Conclave

    • Supreme Court Bar President Urges Lawyers to Balance Professional Duty with Social Responsibility

    New Delhi, April 20, 2026: Legal experts participating in a panel discussion on “Litigation Vs Arbitration Vs Mediation” during the Legal Conclave and Awards 2026 strongly advocated for reforming the justice delivery system to make it faster, more efficient, and less burdened by excessive appeals and delays. The session was held as part of the conclave organised by SILF (Society of Indian Law Firms) in collaboration with SLP (Society of Legal Professionals) under the theme “Justice to ALL—Accessible and Affordable” in New Delhi.

    Ms. Shweta Bharati, Managing Partner, Hammurabi & Solomon Partners, said the appellate, revisional and curative powers of courts are far too wide. She stressed that the first appeal should not become the final court on facts and called for limiting appeals to points of law only. She advocated using AI for preliminary case assessment to decide whether a matter deserves summary hearing, fast-track trial or mediation.

    Mr. Amit Kapur, Partner, J. Sagar Associates, pointed out that the government, as the largest litigant, must improve its internal decision-making process. He said it is a commercial decision, not merely a legal one, and unless government officers are empowered to take timely decisions on settlement or compromise, reducing the judicial backlog would remain a difficult task.

    Mr. Arush Khanna, Managing Partner, Numen Law, agreed that litigation, arbitration and mediation should be seen as complementary tools. He emphasised that parties must choose the most suitable mechanism depending on the nature of the dispute for faster and more effective resolution.

    Mr. Alok Kumar, Managing Partner, THS Law Firms, supported the view that greater focus should be placed on mediation and arbitration to reduce the burden on courts and deliver timely justice to litigants.

    In other panel discussion on “Professional Social Responsibility”, delivering his keynote address, Mr. Vikas Singh, President, Supreme Court Bar Association, put emphasis on the dual pillars of professional responsibility service towards law students and commitment to legal aid.

    He said, “The two important pillars when I talk about professional responsibility are one towards the law students and the other being legal aid. Both of them are helpful to each other. While I was in law school, we had set up a legal aid society where NGOs would bring women from the lower strata of society who had no access to legal services. By helping them with issues related to employment, maternity, and domestic relationships, we were not only providing legal services but also educating law students. This experience instilled compassion in future lawyers and reinforced that access to justice is a fundamental right under the Constitution.”

    Mr. Vikas Singh added that despite the heavy pressures faced by litigating lawyers, every lawyer in the country should contribute meaningfully. He said, “If each lawyer takes up just one pro bono matter and conducts one legal awareness camp in a year, it would be a major contribution to society as a whole.”

    In other two panel discussions held during the conclave on the topics “Is Our Present System Delivering Justice To Citizens (Pendency, Cost, Delays)”, and “Impact of AI in Administration of Justice and DPDP Rules”, speakers expressed serious concern over mounting pendency, high costs and delays in the current system. They called for balanced integration of AI while ensuring data privacy and underlined the ethical responsibility of the legal profession to make justice truly inclusive and accessible.

    The conclave provided a vibrant platform for constructive dialogue and practical solutions aimed at transforming India’s justice system into one that is efficient, equitable, and future-ready.

  • Student Living, Upgraded: 5 Co-Living Spaces Redefining Pune Accommodation

    Student Living, Upgraded: 5 Co-Living Spaces Redefining Pune Accommodation

    Finding the right student accommodation in a city like Pune can be overwhelming, especially when you’re balancing academics, social life, and independence. Today’s students are moving beyond traditional PGs and hostels, choosing co-living spaces that offer comfort, convenience, and a strong sense of community.

    From fully furnished rooms and high-speed Wi-Fi to housekeeping and curated social experiences, co-living spaces are redefining student living. Whether you’re looking for proximity to colleges or a vibrant, like-minded community, here are five co-living options in Pune worth considering.

    1. Tribe Stays – A Premium Community-Driven Student Living Experience

    When it comes to modern co-living in Pune, Tribe Stays stands out as a leading choice for students seeking a balance of comfort, community, and convenience. Designed as a fully managed living experience, it offers everything from furnished rooms and high-speed Wi-Fi to housekeeping, meals, and vibrant common spaces.

    With locations across key student hubs like Viman Nagar and Wakad, Tribe focuses on creating more than just accommodation—it builds a lifestyle. From curated community events to café-style social areas, it ensures students feel connected and supported throughout their stay.

    Ideal for students who want a hassle-free, safe, and engaging living environment, Tribe Stays makes the transition to a new city smooth and enjoyable.

    Link- https://tribestays.com/

    1. Stanza Living – Tech-Enabled Student Housing Across Cities

    A prominent player in India’s student housing segment, Stanza Living offers thoughtfully designed residences that go beyond just accommodation. With fully furnished spaces, daily meals, housekeeping, high-speed Wi-Fi, and robust security systems, it creates a well-rounded living environment tailored to student needs.

    What sets it apart is its tech-enabled approach, allowing residents to manage services, requests, and daily conveniences seamlessly through a digital platform. With a strong presence across key locations in Pune, Stanza Living is ideal for students seeking a structured, comfortable, and hassle-free lifestyle where everything is taken care of under one roof.

    Link- https://www.stanzaliving.com/

    1. Zolo Stays – Affordable & Flexible Co-Living for Students

    Recognised for its extensive presence across major cities, Zolo Stays focuses on making student living simple, accessible, and cost-effective. Its accommodations come fully set up with essentials like furnished rooms, Wi-Fi connectivity, housekeeping support, and maintenance services—allowing students to move in without the usual setup stress.

    What makes Zolo stand out is its flexibility and ease of access, with multiple properties located close to colleges and key city areas in Pune. Designed for students who prioritise convenience and value, it offers a no-fuss living experience where comfort meets affordability without unnecessary complexity.

    Link- https://zolostays.com/

    1. Coliwo – Contemporary Living with Community Vibes

    Blending contemporary design with a strong sense of community, Coliwo offers a co-living experience that goes beyond just a place to stay. Its thoughtfully designed spaces feature modern interiors, shared lounges, and work-friendly zones that create a balance between comfort, productivity, and social interaction.

    With properties located in well-connected areas of Pune, Coliwo ensures easy access to colleges, work hubs, and everyday essentials. Designed for students who value both independence and community, it creates an environment where living, working, and connecting seamlessly come together.

    Link- https://coliwo.in/

    1. Your-Space – Student-Focused Safe & Structured Living

    Focused on creating a secure and student-first living environment, Your-Space offers accommodation that combines comfort with structure. Designed keeping student needs in mind, it provides essentials like furnished rooms, nutritious meal plans, high-speed Wi-Fi, and dedicated study areas that support both academic and daily routines.

    What sets it apart is its strong emphasis on safety and discipline, with features such as biometric access, CCTV surveillance, and well-managed premises. With properties located near key educational hubs in Pune, Your-Space is a reliable choice for students—especially those moving to a new city—who prefer a well-organised, safe, and distraction-free living experience.

    Link- https://www.your-space.in/

    Choosing the right co-living space can truly transform your student experience in a city like Pune. From Tribe Stays’ community-first approach to well-managed and accessible options like Stanza Living, Zolo, Coliwo, and Your-Space, today’s accommodations go beyond just providing a place to stay.

    With thoughtfully designed spaces, essential services, and a sense of community, these co-living options help students settle in with ease. Because in the end, it’s not just about accommodation—it’s about creating a comfortable environment that supports your routine, growth, and overall college journey.

  • Sheena Chohan embodies cinematic royalty, celebrating Pan-India unity at INCA Awards 2026

    Sheena Chohan embodies cinematic royalty, celebrating Pan-India unity at INCA Awards 2026

    Recently, one of the biggest pan-India cinematic celebrations—the Indian National Cine Academy (INCA) Awards 2026—brought together leading names from across film industries under one roof, celebrating the spirit of *One Nation, One Celebration*. Among the many celebrated artists present at the evening, pan India actor Sheena Chohan stood out as she gracefully walked the red carpet, embodying both the essence of the awards and the evolving face of Indian cinema.

    Known for constantly experimenting with her versatile style, Sheena once again pushed boundaries with a look that was both unique and deeply rooted in Indian aesthetics. For this special evening, she chose a stunning gold tissue half saree by designer Mrunal Mistry, a piece that perfectly aligned with the awards’ vision of cultural unity and modern expression.

    The ensemble featured a beautifully draped dual-toned saree in hues of antique gold and champagne, creating a luminous, layered effect. The unique drape softly contoured her silhouette, elegantly highlighting her toned midriff while maintaining a graceful, fluid fall. Paired with a sleeveless embellished metallic blouse, intricately detailed with fine handwork, the look added structure and highlighted her collarbones and shoulders—bringing together strength and femininity in perfect harmony. The result was a silhouette that felt both fluid and commanding — classical Indian femininity meeting a modern, powerful gaze.

    Sheena’s look reinterpreted traditional Indian cultural dressing with a contemporary, cinematic edge. Styled with kohl-defined eyes, radiant skin, a sleek braided hairstyle and statement earrings, she completed the ensemble with poise, confidence and a radiant smile—exuding modern-day royalty on the red carpet. The outfit, versatile in its appeal, seamlessly translated from a grand evening look to one that could inspire both daytime and festive wear.

    The INCA Awards 2026 marked a significant moment for Indian cinema, uniting industries across Gujarati, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Hindi and beyond, celebrating collaboration and creative exchange. For Sheena, this wasn’t just an event but a reflection of her own journey, having worked as leading lady, delivering compelling performances with her characters, across multiple languages accross 15 films, 5 languages and cinematic spaces.

    During the evening, she engaged with leading voices from across industries, including Rishab Shetty, Shriya Saran, Rana Daggubati and many more, experiencing the collaborative energy that defined the night.

    Her presence at the INCA Awards was more than just a red carpet appearance—it was a statement of artistic evolution, cultural unity and a forward-looking vision of Pan Indian cinema.

  • Essential Summer Skincare Routines for Indian Weather

    Essential Summer Skincare Routines for Indian Weather

    In India, summer brings about a range of excessive heat, high levels of humidity, smog and substantial UV exposure in addition to increased temperatures. During peak summer months, the UV index often exceeds 10 in major cities like Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai, which is considered as a very significant risk for skin damage. As a result of this, skincare becomes more concerned with balance and preventive measures than beauty.

    Minimizing sun damage, protecting the skin barrier and taking care of sweat and oil are the primary objectives of a good summer skincare strategy. However, instead of just conforming to global norms, the strategy needs to be adapted to Indian conditions.

    Understanding What Indian Summer Does to Skin

    Sebum production rises by high humidity, especially in mixed and oily skin varieties. In addition, continuous sweating produces clogged pores that may lead to discomfort and acne. Dehydration develops concealed conditions for dry skin, since the skin might appear oily on the surface yet remain devoid of water on the inside.

    Approximately 80–90% of visible skin ageing is driven by UV radiation, according to a study by the American Academy of Dermatology. This risk rises significantly in India because of prolonged and excessive sun exposure. Among the most common issues noticed in dermatology clinics in the summer are pigmentation, tanning and uneven skin tone.

    Cleansing Without Overdoing It

    Over-cleaning is the initial common mistake individuals make in the summer. Cleaning the face too much could damage the skin barrier, although it’s important to get rid of sweat, oil and pollution.

    In most cases, applying a light cleanser twice a day is adequate. A simple evening cleansing becomes particularly essential for individuals who drive extensively or are affected by pollution. Rather than making the skin feel “dry and tight,” the aim is to make it appear balanced and clean.

    Hydration Is Not Optional

    The concept that moisturizers are not necessary in the summer remains one of the biggest and most common misunderstandings. In reality, skipping hydration might lead the skin to respond by generating even more oil.

    Water-based moisturizers that are light and do not feel heavy serve in preserving the skin barrier. Because they absorb water without clogging pores, ingredients like hyaluronic acid are effective. According to Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology Journal research, maintaining the skin hydrated enhances barrier function and minimizes sensitivity to environmental stress.

    Product texture is more crucial than volume, especially when it comes to Indian weather. Even with relatively dry skin, a light gel can prove more efficient than a heavy cream.

    Sunscreen: The Most Critical Step

    Without sunscreen, no summer routine is complete. Although SPF 50 is usually preferred due to brighter sunlight, dermatologists in India suggest using at least SPF 30.

    97% of UVB rays are blocked by SPF 30 and 98% by SPF 50. Although the transformation may not appear like much, regular use is essential in preventing pigmentation and tanning.

    Reapplication is also essential. Sweat and sun exposure restrict the longevity of sunscreen, so it’s necessary to apply it every two to three hours, particularly if you are outdoors.

    Managing Oil and Acne

    The summer season can be tough for skin that is oily and prone to acne. The clogged pores are caused by a mixture of sweat, oil and dirt. A harsh treatment, though, may worsen the condition.

    Once or twice a week, gentle cleansing can assist in removing dead skin cells without damaging the barrier. Since they efficiently remove pores and absorb oil, ingredients like salicylic acid are often suggested.

    It’s additionally critical to keep in mind that higher levels of humidity could contribute to acne. According to a study that was released in the International Journal of Dermatology, summer environmental factors like heat and sweat may make acne more serious.

    Diet, Water and Lifestyle

    In Indian summer, skincare comprises beyond just products. Skin function is significantly impacted by hydration. Retaining skin elasticity and maintaining body temperature are both advantages of drinking sufficient water.

    Internal hydration is made possible by seasonal foods, like fruits high in water content. Additionally, reducing down on sweets and unhealthy foods may assist to prevent breakouts.

    Lifestyle and clothing are also essential. Skin stress can be reduced by wearing breathable clothes and staying away from heavy sun exposure between 12 noon to 3 pm.

    A Practical Approach That Works

    Consistency instead of complexity is the foundation of summer skincare in India. Combining a lot of products is not considered as efficient as a simple routine consisting of light washing, mild hydration, sun protection and controlled exfoliation.

    The need for adaptation defines what makes Indian conditions different. In weather that is humid, an approach that’s successful in a dry environment may not function. Monitoring the way your skin reacts on an everyday basis is more advantageous than following specific rules.

    Conclusion

    Indian summers are challenging, but they also point out the reality that being aware of the environment is more essential for skincare than chasing trends. The results are more reliable and enduring when habits depend on weather instead of just products.

    Oscar Pereira is a skincare formulator and educator with over two decades of experience in professional skincare. He works closely with dermatologists and aestheticians across India, focusing on barrier-led, science-based approaches tailored to Indian skin and climate.

  • Senti Song Review: A Fun-Filled Party Track by Payal Dev & Aditya Dev

    Senti Song Review: A Fun-Filled Party Track by Payal Dev & Aditya Dev

    Get ready to turn up the music and hit the dance floor as ‘Senti’, the latest track from Daadi Ki Shaadi, is finally here! Bursting with energy, vibrant choreography, and feel-good vibes, the song is poised to become the ultimate party anthem of the season.

    Featuring lively performances by Neetu Kapoor, Kapil Sharma, Riddhima Kapoor, and Sadia Khateeb, Senti is packed with infectious dance moves that make it impossible to sit still. The track perfectly captures the spirit of celebration, inviting audiences to groove along with friends and family.

    Composed by Payal Dev and Aditya Dev, and sung by Payal Dev alongside Divya Kumar, the song blends catchy beats with playful, foot-tapping lyrics penned by Payal Dev, Aditya Dev, and Mohsin Shaikh. The result is a high-energy track that feels right at home at weddings, parties, and festive gatherings.

    Sharing his experience, Kapil Sharma described Senti as a celebration of joy and togetherness. He highlighted how shooting the song felt less like work and more like a fun-filled gathering, thanks to the camaraderie among the cast. He also praised the scenic charm of Shimla, which adds a picturesque backdrop to the song, and applauded the lively choreography by Ganesh Acharya.

    At its core, Daadi Ki Shaadi is a heartwarming celebration of family—embracing the chaos, quirks, hidden emotions, and unconditional love that bind generations together.

    Backed by Rtake Studios, BeingU Studios, and Shimla Talkies, the film is written and directed by Ashish R Mohan. The music is released under Warner Music India and is now streaming across major platforms.

    Mark your calendars—Daadi Ki Shaadi hits cinemas on May 8, 2026, promising laughter, love, and a whole lot of dance-worthy moments! 🎶