Blog

The Ultimate Shaadi Track Is Here: Dore Dore Dil Pe Tere from Heer Express Drops Now!

After the soulful success of Ve Ranjhana, which introduced us to the heartwarming chemistry between Pritt Kamani and Divita Juneja, the makers of Heer Express are turning up the energy with a brand-new track. Get ready to hit the dance floor—Dore Dore Dil Pe Tere is here, and it’s set to become this wedding season’s hottest anthem!

A Celebration of Love, Joy & Dance

Vibrant, energetic, and full of life, Dore Dore Dil Pe Tere is more than just a song—it’s a celebration. Set against a colourful and lively backdrop, the track features a joyous mix of Indian and foreign dancers letting loose to the irresistible beats. Leading the vibe are the lead pair—Divita Juneja and Pritt Kamani—whose chemistry lights up the screen, making it impossible to look away.

Star-Studded Music Lineup

With powerhouse vocals by Nakash Aziz and Harjot Kaur, catchy lyrics by Shloke Lal, and music by the hitmaker Tanishk Bagchi, this track is a perfect fusion of traditional desi celebration and global musical energy. Whether it’s a haldi ceremony or the sangeet night, this one’s bound to be a playlist regular.

Composer’s Take: High Energy Meets Heart

Sharing his thoughts on the track, composer Tanishk Bagchi says:

“This film has a lot of heart and warmth, and I wanted the music to feel like a natural extension of that. With Dore Dore, we went all out to create something that instantly lifts your mood. The vibe had to be high-energy but still rooted in emotion—something you’d dance to but also feel connected with. Nakash and Harjot brought it alive with their dynamic vocals. Hopefully, it’ll be playing at every wedding this season!”

About Heer Express

At its core, Heer Express is a story about love, family, and chasing dreams. Directed by Umesh Shukla, the film marks the debut of Divita Juneja and stars Pritt Kamani in a pivotal role. Supporting them are a stellar ensemble of seasoned actors including Ashutosh Rana, Sanjay Mishra, and Gulshan Grover.

Production & Release

Presented by Tulip Entertainment and Divisa Entertainment, in association with Merry Go Round Studios and Creative Strokes Group, the film is produced by Umesh Shukla, Ashish Wagh, Mohit Chhabra, and Sanjay Grover.

🎬 Heer Express rolls into theatres on 8th August 2025—get ready for a journey filled with laughter, music, and heart.

July 9, 2025
Upasana Kamineni Konidela: Redefining Marriage for a New Generation

Upasana Kamineni Konidela, entrepreneur and philanthropist, has long been a voice for women’s empowerment in India. From advocating for financial independence to encouraging emotional autonomy, she has consistently pushed for a society where women live by choice, not compulsion. In her latest reflection, Upasana delves into the evolving idea of marriage, urging the next generation to redefine the institution — not merely survive it.

“Find Your Ram”: A Call for Conscious Partnership

In a recent social media post, Upasana highlighted the importance of marrying from a place of strength, love, and emotional maturity — rather than societal obligation. She encouraged women to “Find Your Ram,” referencing the ideal of a supportive and respectful partner, rather than succumbing to timelines or pressure.

“Marriage should be a conscious choice rooted in love, stability, and mutual respect — not a milestone to check off,” she asserted.

Breaking the Cycle of Sacrifice and Silence

Upasana’s message sheds light on deeper issues often brushed under the carpet — emotional abuse, toxicity, and the persistent expectation that women must adjust at all costs. She called out the flawed conditioning around marriage and spoke of the need to raise both girls and boys differently.

“Let’s teach our boys early to manage emotions, set boundaries, and respect differences,” she wrote, challenging traditional norms.
“Let’s stop forcing women into timelines — instead, give them the tools and freedom to thrive.”

A Blueprint for a Healthier India Begins at Home

Upasana believes that a stronger nation starts with healthier homes. She called upon educated, empowered women to become catalysts for change — using their awareness and privilege to reimagine family structures.

“We owe it to ourselves — and the generations after us — to use our privilege with purpose,” she noted.

Her statement underlines the importance of agency in marriage:

“No more marrying for money or status — those can be built together with the right partner, if needed.”

Tradition Meets Progress: The Vision for a New India

Upasana envisions an India where tradition and progress coexist — where marriage isn’t a sacrifice but a shared journey of growth and mutual respect.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Upasana Kamineni Konidela (@upasanakaminenikonidela)

“Let this be the New India where people live by choice, not compulsion — where we’re proud of who we are, and even prouder of who we’re becoming, together.”

Insights from Harvard: Why Do Women Marry Today?

Sharing an anecdote from a recent class at Harvard with Prof. Debora Spar, Upasana explored the shifting motivations behind marriage in modern society.

“Why do women get married today? Is it for companionship? Children? Status?” she pondered.
“The truth is, women no longer need marriage to fulfill these needs. It’s about choosing a partner who respects you and sees you as an equal.”

A Message for Progressive Indian Women

Upasana’s reflections mirror the shifting ideologies of independent women in modern India. Her advocacy goes beyond personal opinion — it is a larger call to society to rethink the expectations we place on women and marriage.

Her message is clear: Empowerment is not just about career or independence — it’s also about choosing relationships that nurture, support, and respect.

July 8, 2025
Seerat Kapoor’s ₹9,950 Sequin Dress: A Style Masterclass

Actress Seerat Kapoor once again stole the spotlight with her impeccable sense of style. The Tollywood beauty graced the red carpet as the guest of honour at a prestigious corporate award ceremony, where she felicitated over 168 winners. Known for her bold and elegant fashion choices, Seerat made a stunning entrance in a show-stopping multicoloured mermaid sequin gown that left everyone in awe.

The Statement Look: A Mermaid Dream by Anushka Puri
For the grand evening, Seerat wore a breathtaking off-shoulder mermaid gown by designer Anushka Puri, priced at ₹9,950. The form-fitting dress hugged her hourglass silhouette beautifully, while the ruched bodice enhanced her shoulders and collarbones. The gown featured a sultry thigh-high slit and a flowing skirt that added just the right amount of drama and elegance. The shimmering multicoloured sequins caught the light from every angle, creating a kaleidoscope of glamour that turned the entire look into a red-carpet masterpiece.

Minimal Accessories, Maximum Impact
Letting the gown do all the talking, Seerat opted for minimal accessories—a pair of delicate hanging earrings and subtle rings, striking the perfect balance between sparkle and sophistication. Her look was styled by celebrity stylist Anahita, a known name in Tollywood’s fashion circuit.

Beauty Look: Glam with a Hint of Old-Hollywood
Seerat’s beauty look was the perfect companion to her glitzy ensemble. She sported a dewy, luminous base, paired with a warm blush and bronzed contour that sculpted her features flawlessly. Her brown smokey eyes, voluminous lashes, and well-defined brows framed her face with a sultry edge. She completed the look with glossy nude lips in a soft pink-brown tone. Her hair was styled in side-parted wavy curls, bringing a touch of vintage Hollywood glam to the modern red carpet.

Finishing Touch: Rose Gold Heels
To complete her look, Seerat slipped into a pair of rose gold heels that not only added height but also matched the shimmering tones of her gown, seamlessly tying the entire outfit together.

Watch the BTS Video Here:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Seerat Kapoor (@iamseeratkapoor)

A True Fashion Icon
With this appearance, Seerat Kapoor once again reaffirmed her status as one of Tollywood’s most stylish stars. Whether it’s a film premiere, fashion gala, or corporate event, she never fails to deliver a fashion-forward moment. By pairing a dazzling gown with effortless elegance, she sets new style benchmarks—one sequin at a time.

July 8, 2025
Blyp: A New Chapter for India’s Leading Mobility Provider
New Delhi, India | July 8, 2025 — ParkMate, one of India’s most prominent smart parking and mobility solution providers, has officially rebranded to ‘Blyp’. This transformation signals a major shift in the company’s mission—from solving daily parking challenges to becoming a cutting-edge urban mobility intelligence platform.

Why ‘Blyp’? A New Name, A New Vision

The rebrand is more than cosmetic; it represents a bold new chapter. Blyp is on a mission to revolutionize urban commuting through data, automation, and smart city integration.

“The name ‘Blyp’ represents speed, precision, and novelty — exactly what we want to deliver to every urban commuter,” said Dhananjaya Bharadwaj, Co-founder & CEO of Blyp.

“This rebranding is our first step toward unveiling our next-generation technologies and integrated AI capabilities. We’re not just evolving — we’re redefining what it means to move in the city. In the coming weeks, we’ll be launching something magical for car owners. Something that’s never been done before.”

From Parking Startup to Super Mobility Platform

With this new identity, Blyp aims to move beyond being seen as just a smart parking app.

“ParkMate was our beginning — a product born from a real-world problem,” said Abhimanyu Singh, Co-founder & COO of Blyp.

“‘Blyp’ is our evolution. Think of it as us going full Super Saiyyan with our tech vision. Over the years, we’ve grown into a comprehensive mobility tech platform. This rebrand enables us to dream bigger, build faster, and create deeper impact — for individuals, enterprises, and governments alike.”

What’s Changing?
- Brand Name: ParkMate will now operate under the new name ‘Blyp’.
- Visual Identity: A refreshed logo, color palette, and user interface signal a modernized brand experience.
- Technology Refresh: A brand-new mobile app and platform upgrades are set to launch in the coming weeks.
What’s Next for Blyp?

In the quarters ahead, Blyp plans to:
- Launch its revamped mobile app and next-gen technology stack
- Expand operations into more Indian cities
- Build smart infrastructure collaborations beyond traditional parking
- Introduce powerful features including:
  - Predictive analytics
  - Integrated AI and computer vision
  - EV charging and parking integrations
  - Enterprise mobility dashboards
  - Digital parking permits
Driving the Future of Frictionless Mobility

With this bold rebrand, Blyp aims to set new standards for smart urban transportation — going far beyond just finding a parking spot. As cities get smarter, so does mobility. And Blyp is ready to lead the way.
July 7, 2025
Blume Foundation: Investing in Women’s Future
An Evening of Advocacy, Art, and Action to Uplift Women and Girls Worldwide

Houston, TX – June 28, 2025: The Blume Foundation celebrated a powerful milestone with its inaugural gala, Petals of Hope: Voices of Change, held at The Westin Oaks Houston at the Galleria. This elegant and purposeful evening united a vibrant community of changemakers, philanthropists, artists, and advocates committed to empowering women and girls globally.

Inspiring Words and a Call to Action

The evening was gracefully emceed by Rosie Nguyen, Director of Communications and Projects in Free Expression at Rice University and one of Houston’s Top 30 Influential Women of 2024. She opened the gala with a passionate call to action, encouraging guests to unite behind Blume’s mission to dismantle the systemic devaluation of women and girls through education, advocacy, and empowerment.

The Vision Behind Blume

Founded by entrepreneur and philanthropist Vaishali Dev, the Blume Foundation addresses some of the world’s most pressing issues: gendercide, reproductive justice, leadership equity, mental health, and economic opportunity for women. The foundation employs innovative programs, global partnerships, scholarships, and tailored support systems to transform lives and create lasting change.

Opening Ceremonies and Special Recognitions

The gala began with a soul-stirring invocation by Gwendolyn Price Harris, followed by heartfelt remarks from Vaishali Dev, who shared her personal journey and the inspiration behind Blume.

Blume was honored with the following recognitions for its groundbreaking work:
- Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from Congressman Al Green
- Certificate of Recognition from Texas Senator Molly Cook, District 15
- Proclamation from Harris County Commissioner Lesley Briones
- Proclamation from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, delivered by Alice Lee
These accolades underscored the foundation’s unwavering commitment to creating a world where women and girls have equitable access to resources, opportunities, and safety.

Shining a Light on Gendercide

A poignant segment on gendercide, led by Beverley Hill, founder of the Gendercide Awareness Project (GENDAP), featured powerful testimony from survivor Niriah Williams. This emotional segment highlighted the harsh realities of gender-based violence and human trafficking, reinforcing the urgent need for action.

Fireside Chat: Voices Driving Policy and Progress

A compelling fireside chat moderated by Sami Khaleeq, City of Houston Commissioner for Planning & Development and tech entrepreneur, brought together two visionary leaders:
- Juliet K. Stipeche, Director of Human Services at H-GAC
- Dr. Elizabeth Gregory, Professor of Gender & Sexuality Studies, University of Houston
Their discussion focused on gender equity, education access, and systemic change through policy and leadership.

Art that Speaks for Women

Guests were captivated by a stirring art exhibit from internationally acclaimed Dutch painter Johannes Boekhoudt, whose evocative works depict the beauty, strength, and resilience of women across cultures.

Honoring Champions of Change

The Blume Foundation recognized four trailblazers whose work exemplifies courage, compassion, and transformative leadership:
- Dr. Conte M. Terrell
  Phoenix Petal Award – For lifelong dedication to supporting abuse survivors and promoting emotional wellness.
- Lushin Dubey
  Blume Beacon Award – For leveraging the power of theater to highlight social justice issues and amplify marginalized voices.
- Parvez Jasani
  Roots and Wings Award – For visionary leadership and quiet, consistent support that uplifts others.
- Roopa Gir
  Force of Nature Award – For her unwavering commitment to education, civic leadership, and empowering future generations through iEducate.
Spotlight on Local Impact: iEducate

The evening highlighted the work of iEducate, a Houston-based nonprofit mentoring underserved youth and nurturing future educators. CEO Arun Gir spoke passionately about their mission and the impact they are making in high-need communities.

A Tribute to Creativity and Culture

Designer and philanthropist Anjali Phougat was honored for her exceptional creative contributions to the Petals of Hope gala. She curated the showstopping fashion experience, “She Walks Free”, which powerfully portrayed the journey of survivors of human trafficking while celebrating South Asian culture on global stages.

Fashion with Purpose: A Night to Remember

The evening culminated in a breathtaking high couture fashion show titled Fashion with Purpose, curated by Anjali Phougat and narrated by media luminary Meena Dutt. The show told a moving story of innocence, struggle, and empowerment—capturing the essence of Blume’s vision.

Marti Nonemaker, Co-founder of the Blume Foundation, delivered a stirring message to close the event:

“Change begins with us. Every voice, every act, every contribution helps shape a world where women and girls can rise.”

Gratitude to Sponsors and Partners

The success of the gala was made possible through the generosity of key sponsors and partners, including:

Vesta Stream, Amir Dodhiya, LACP – Wealth Preservation and Strategies, CGS Digital Marketing, Designer Dream Collection by Anjali Phougat, VIVA Global Events by Vaishali Dev, Microteq Engineering Inc., Yogi International Fashion, Spark Media, Chai Gold, Raindrop Foundation, Rupani Foundation, IAPAC, iEducate, An-Nisa, NAMI Greater Houston, UNA Houston Chapter, and Fresh Spirit Wellness for Women.

About the Blume Foundation

The Blume Foundation is a dedicated nonprofit championing the empowerment of women at every life stage. From supporting survivors of domestic violence and gendercide to fostering education, entrepreneurship, mental health, and career development, Blume strives to create a world where women and girls are seen, heard, and celebrated.

Get Involved – Be a Catalyst for Change

You can be part of this transformative movement.

Contact:
info@blumefoundation.org
www.blumefoundation.org
Instagram / Facebook: @BlumeFoundation
Vaishali Dev: +1 (210) 705-0510
July 6, 2025
VI-John Sets Asia Record: 10,410 Grooming Pledges at Maha Kumbh

05 July, 2025: VI-John Healthcare India has etched its name in the Asia Book of Records for achieving the “Maximum Participation in a Digital Pledge for Personal Grooming in Maha Kumbh.” This remarkable achievement was part of the brand’s major initiative during the Maha Kumbh Mela, titled ‘Grooming Ka Mahakumbh,’ where an astounding 10,410 participants took the ‘Grooming Pratigya’—a pledge to champion personal grooming and hygiene across the nation.

Grooming Ka Mahakumbh: A Mass Movement of Self-Care

During the grand spiritual gathering, VI-John deployed specially designed “Grooming Rath” at various locations in the Maha Kumbh Mela. These mobile grooming stations offered free grooming services to thousands of devotees, helping them feel refreshed and confident in their spiritual journey. Over the course of 45 days, the brand inspired a record-breaking number of digital pledges, reinforcing that personal grooming is both an individual and collective pursuit of dignity and self-respect.

Leadership Speaks: Vision Behind the Initiative

Mr. Harshit Kochhar, Managing Director, VI-John Healthcare India, expressed his pride:

“This record-breaking event is a testament to our commitment to ‘Grooming India.’ Seeing thousands come together to embrace personal grooming as a way of life reinforces our mission to instill confidence and self-respect in individuals nationwide.”

Mr. Ashutosh Chaudharie, General Manager – Marketing, added:

“‘Grooming Ka Mahakumbh’ was our ambitious campaign at the Maha Kumbh, and it exceeded all expectations. Alongside offering free grooming services, we educated devotees about the importance of hygiene and personal care. To reinforce their commitment, we invited them to take the ‘Grooming Pratigya’ and awarded them with certificates—making it a truly memorable experience.”

Felicitation Ceremony: Marking a Historic Milestone

A felicitation ceremony was held at VI-John’s corporate office on March 12, 2025, to celebrate this extraordinary achievement. The official record handover took place in the presence of distinguished dignitaries, industry leaders, and key stakeholders, solidifying VI-John’s reputation as a pioneering force in the grooming industry.

About VI-John Healthcare India

VI-John Healthcare India is a leading brand in personal grooming and healthcare, known for offering premium yet affordable products that empower individuals to look and feel their best. With a legacy rooted in innovation and quality, VI-John continues to set new benchmarks in personal care across India and international markets.

July 5, 2025
Gulshan One29’s Mango Fiesta: A Sweet Celebration of Summer & Community

Noida’s Favourite Retail Hub Hosts a Two-Day Extravaganza Filled with Mangoes, Merriment, and More

Gulshan One29, the dynamic retail and lifestyle destination by Gulshan Group located along the Noida Expressway in Sector 129, recently transformed into a tropical paradise with its much-anticipated Mango Fiesta. The two-day event served up the perfect summer escape, drawing families, foodies, and fun-seekers into a vibrant celebration centered around India’s favorite summer fruit — the mango.

A Weekend of Fun, Flavor, and Festivity

Held over the weekend, Mango Fiesta turned the buzzing mall into a colorful haven of summery cheer. From the moment visitors stepped in, they were greeted with bursts of mango-inspired decor, making every corner picture-perfect for social media. Selfie spots adorned with fruity flair, bright installations, and tropical-themed zones gave guests plenty of reasons to capture memories.

Adding to the visual delight was the enticing aroma of street food wafting through the air. Chaat counters and mocktail stations offered cool refreshments and tangy treats that perfectly complemented the festive mood. The culinary lineup was carefully curated to include mango-infused delicacies and traditional summer favourites that tickled the taste buds of guests across all age groups.

Entertainment Galore for All Ages

More than just a food-centric event, Mango Fiesta delivered a wholesome experience with entertainment and interactive activities for everyone. Families with children enjoyed a host of games and workshops, while energetic mascots like the adorable Mango Man made surprise appearances, charming both kids and adults. These lively performances and walkabouts added an extra dose of whimsy and laughter to the already cheerful environment.

Live music performances and fun competitions kept the crowd engaged throughout the two days. The festive spirit resonated throughout the venue, creating a warm and welcoming space that brought people together to celebrate the essence of summer.

A Vision Rooted in Togetherness and Joy

Reflecting on the event’s tremendous success, Yukti Nagpal, Director of Gulshan Group, shared,

“We were thrilled to witness such enthusiastic participation in our Mango Fiesta at Gulshan One29. This event captured everything we hoped to deliver — the joy of the season, community bonding, and the creation of lasting memories. At Gulshan Group, we aim to offer more than just a retail experience. Our goal is to build lifestyle destinations where people connect, celebrate, and grow together.”

Her words echo the core philosophy behind the Gulshan brand — that of fostering community spirit through meaningful experiences.

Beyond Shopping: A Space for Shared Celebration

The Mango Fiesta is a shining example of Gulshan One29’s commitment to creating engaging and inclusive experiences that go far beyond conventional retail. With its mix of fun, flavor, and festivities, the event highlighted the mall’s growing reputation as a hub where culture and community converge.

Events like the Mango Fiesta reaffirm Gulshan Group’s mission of shaping spaces that serve as platforms for interaction, celebration, and joy — strengthening not only brand identity but also community ties.

Looking Ahead: More Experiences to Come

As Mango Fiesta concludes on a high note, it sets a promising tone for future events at Gulshan One29. Whether it’s through culinary festivals, cultural showcases, or family-friendly entertainment, Gulshan Group continues to redefine what a retail destination can be — a place where every visit becomes a celebration.

July 2, 2025
Grand narratives of stories, values, and power on stage presented by students at ‘Stage Parichay 2025’

Kolkata, July 2, 2025: ‘Stage Parichay 2025’ was jointly organized by ‘Sanskriti Parichay’ and ‘Next Scene’ in collaboration with Rotary Club Belur. This cultural event aimed to bring the depth of grandmother’s tales to the current generation through theatrical performances, storytelling, and presentations of Indian traditions.

In today’s digital age, when children are increasingly disconnected from family conversations and the importance of relationships, Stage Parichay reconnected them from screen to story, from swipe to shloka, and from passive viewing to active experience. The resonance of shlokas, the lessons of stories, and the captivating dialogues of this program touched everyone’s hearts.

The program began with Sanskrit shlokas, as the synchronized voices of children aged 4 to 14 filled the Rotary Sadan with sanctity. This was not merely an announcement; it was a touch of the soul.

Following this, children in various colorful attires presented two educational plays on stage, which conveyed moral values with humor and sensitivity. This was accompanied by the Ram-Parshuram dialogue, where the clash of dharma, restraint, and anger brought the entire narrative to life.

Next, a visionary presentation of Kalki Avatar was given, emerging as a courageous warning light in the current darkness.

Amidst these, an extraordinary moment arrived when a single innocent child presented the Navarasas exquisitely on stage. She brought to life the nine emotions of Shringar (love/beauty), Hasya (laughter), Karuna (compassion), Raudra (fury), Veera (heroism), Bhayanak (terror), Bibhatsa (disgust), Adbhuta (wonder), and Shanta (peace) solely through gestures and silence. The audience not only saw this artistic performance but felt it deep within.

On this occasion, Shubha Churiwal (Founder and mentor,Sanskriti Parichay) said, “This 19-year journey and the various performances on stage have always boosted children’s confidence. I see in my social environment how many skilled people become nervous as soon as they come on stage. Providing this platform to children is an effort to nurture them and awaken a sense of faith and patriotism. This event was successful due to the hard work of these children and our entire team.”

Kartikey Tripathi (Founder, CEO & Creative Head, Next Scene) stated, “Theater helps children build their values and identity not only on stage but also in their lives. Through Stage Parichay, we want to connect them with stories that possess both knowledge and wonder. In this age of screens, such experiences restore depth, discipline, and a culture of dialogue within children.”

Megha Narsaria( teacher Sanskriti Parichay and Production Manager of the show) , Ruchika Khetan ( teacher , Sanskriti Parichay) , Anusha Jalan Singhania (Co-founder & Director of Finance & Operations, Next Scene) and Rohit Basfor (Co-founder & Director of Finance & Operations, Next Scene) played crucial roles in making the event successful.

The most impactful part of the program was the debate between Kali and Kalki, a dialogue about destruction and rebirth. The entire hall fell silent and was stunned upon hearing questions from the children like, “Has the world gone beyond reform?” and “Is darkness preparing for light in the future?”

The program concluded with an emotional song like “O Kanha, ab to Murli ki,” which filled the entire atmosphere with emotion and devotion. Afterwards, all participating children were honored with certificates, acknowledging their enthusiasm and contribution.

Stage Parichay was not just a stage festival, but also the beginning of the children’s learning journey, encouraging the building of confidence, development of communication skills, expansion of imagination, collective cooperation, and discipline.

About Sanskriti Parichay:

Established in 2007 by Shubha Churiwal, this organization connects children with Indian culture through shlokas, bhajans, historical tales of our epics , and stage performances. Having educated over 4,000 students, it has presented more than 25 performances to date.

About Next Scene:

Next Scene is a new theater platform that brings Indian narratives to the new generation through powerful theatrical performances.

July 2, 2025
UP’s Road Safety Progress: Minister Dayashankar Singh on Helmet Enforcement & Tech
New Delhi, July 02, 2025: The 25th National Workshop on Road Safety & Best Practices kicked off in the national capital with a resounding call to action—ensuring safer roads through policy, awareness, enforcement, and innovation. Jointly organized by the All India Federation of Motor Vehicle Department Technical Executive Officers Association and the Transport Regional Inspectors Service Association, this two-day event brought together key stakeholders from government, industry, and civil society.

Hon’ble Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh Highlights Progress in Uttar Pradesh

Inaugurating the workshop, Hon’ble Transport Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Dayashankar Singh, emphasized the significant progress his state is making in road safety, despite resource limitations.

“Uttar Pradesh is making great strides toward road safety. Our initiatives focus on critical areas such as vehicle fitness and child awareness programs. With limited resources, we are achieving measurable impact,” he said.

He further reiterated that the state government, under the leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, is working in sync with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision for a Viksit Bharat by 2047, where road safety will play a pivotal role in sustainable development.

Road Safety is a Humanitarian Imperative, Not Just a Statistic: Transport Commissioner Brijesh Narayan Singh

Transport Commissioner Shri Brijesh Narayan Singh delivered a thought-provoking message on the importance of approaching road safety from a humanitarian perspective.

“The Chief Minister’s target to reduce accident fatalities by 50% is not just an administrative benchmark—it is a moral and humanitarian goal. Road safety is about protecting lives, not just managing numbers,” he stated.

He outlined the ‘Vision 2030 Roadmap’ developed by the Uttar Pradesh Government, which rests on four key pillars: Education, Engineering, Enforcement, and Emergency Response. This strategic framework is being implemented across the state with missionary zeal.

Counterfeit Helmets are a National Threat: Steelbird MD Rajeev Kapur Calls for Technological & Regulatory Overhaul

Delivering a compelling industry perspective, Mr. Rajeev Kapur, Managing Director of Steelbird Helmets and President of the 2-Wheeler Helmet Manufacturers Association of India, spoke about the critical role helmets play in road safety—and the alarming rise of counterfeit products in the market.

“At Steelbird, we are committed to road safety through our ‘Mission Save Lives’ campaign, launched in partnership with the UN and WHO. Our goal is clear: to prevent fatalities caused by the non-use or misuse of helmets.”

Mr. Kapur stressed the need for strict enforcement to curb reckless behaviors such as red-light jumping, drunk driving, and speeding, which continue to plague Indian roads.

India Faces a Helmet Crisis

Citing national statistics, Mr. Kapur revealed:
- 1.72 lakh road fatalities and 4.63 lakh injuries occurred in 2023.
- Two-wheeler riders accounted for 44.8% of all fatalities (~77,000 deaths).
- Approximately 54,000 deaths were directly linked to non-use of helmets.
- Pedestrians contributed to 20% of total fatalities (~35,000 deaths).
- Collectively, two-wheeler users and pedestrians make up 65% of road accident deaths.
“India is facing a massive helmet shortage. 50% of helmets sold today are counterfeit and unsafe. We need a fourfold increase in production—this means investing ₹6,000 crore, acquiring 2 crore sq. ft. of manufacturing space, and employing 80,000 workers,” he said.

‘Mission Save Lives 2.0’: A National Movement for Helmet Safety

Mr. Kapur unveiled ‘Mission Save Lives 2.0’, an upgraded national campaign designed to ensure BIS-certified helmets are:
- Accessible
- Affordable
- Mandatory for all riders, pillion passengers, and children
This new phase calls for a phased implementation:
- Tier 1 cities by 2028
- Tier 2 cities by 2029
- Tier 3 cities and rural India by January 2031
The mission also proposes:
- Mandatory BIS-certified helmet supply with every two-wheeler sold—1 helmet immediately, 2 helmets (rider + pillion) effective January 2027.
- Real-time BIS license verification, audits, targeted raids, and legal enforcement to dismantle the counterfeit ecosystem.
- A mandate for all manufacturers to maintain a fully equipped, in-house BIS-approved testing lab for quality assurance.
- Reduction in GST on helmets from 18% to 12%, and reclassification as essential, life-saving equipment, not luxury items.
Call to Action: From Policy to the Streets

Mr. Kapur made a heartfelt plea for stronger public-private cooperation and urged government departments to prioritize helmet safety.

“A real helmet takes just seconds to wear—but it can save a lifetime. We owe it to every two-wheeler rider and their families to create safer roads,” he said.

Workshop Draws Participation from Across India

The workshop witnessed the participation of Regional Inspectors (RIs) and Motor Vehicle Inspectors (MVIs) from major states including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal. Technical discussions revolved around:
- Innovations in vehicle inspection technology
- Best practices in enforcement and licensing
- Using AI and data analytics to prevent road crashes
- Collaborative strategies to build a national culture of safety
Conclusion: From Vision to Action

The 25th National Workshop on Road Safety & Best Practices offered a comprehensive look at India’s ongoing efforts to reduce road fatalities. It underscored that the journey towards safer roads is not only the responsibility of the government but of every stakeholder—administrators, manufacturers, inspectors, and citizens alike.

With Uttar Pradesh demonstrating determination despite constraints, and initiatives like Mission Save Lives 2.0 setting bold national goals, India is poised to make its roads significantly safer by 2030.
July 2, 2025
Gaur City Mall Partners with Indian Army for Youth Outreach Program, Reaffirms Commitment to Nation-Building

Reinforcing its dedication to supporting national causes and empowering the youth, Gaur City Mall hosted a special outreach program organized by the Directorate General of Recruiting, Indian Army. This initiative aimed to inspire young Indians to consider a meaningful and honourable career in the Indian Army, and was met with enthusiastic participation from visitors across age groups.

With seamless operational support provided by Gaur City Mall, the event served as an engaging platform for aspiring youth and families to interact with representatives from the Indian Army. The event offered them a chance to gain firsthand insight into the diverse career paths and opportunities available in one of the nation’s most prestigious institutions.

Participants also took part in an exciting Army trivia quiz, testing their knowledge about the Indian Armed Forces and winning exclusive memorabilia as a token of appreciation. A heartfelt moment of the day was when many visitors expressed their gratitude and admiration for the Army, sharing personal messages of respect and patriotism.

At Gaur City Mall, we take immense pride in hosting this impactful initiative in collaboration with the Indian Army. We strongly believe that the youth form the foundation of our nation’s future, and it is our responsibility to inspire and empower them”, said Sarthak Gaur, Director, Gaursons India Private Limited. “This event served as a meaningful bridge, connecting young minds with the honourable path of serving the country. By bringing such initiatives to the forefront, we reaffirm our commitment to nation-building and continue to support platforms that instil purpose, pride, and patriotism in the leaders of tomorrow.”

The event went beyond career information, as it highlighted the honour, pride, and benefits associated with serving in the Indian Army, painting a complete picture of life in uniform and the deep sense of purpose it brings.

This initiative stands as another testament to Gaur City Mall’s ongoing commitment to nation-building, community empowerment, and alignment with the government’s vision of a strong, motivated, and aware young India.

July 2, 2025