GRAND OPENING FOR INTERNATIONAL CLOWN FESTIVAL AT INORBIT MALL, MALAD & VASHI

~Martin – “The Flubber” and other International clowns spread laughter and joy among kids at the grand opening of International Clown Festival at Inorbit Mall, Malad and Vashi~

Mumbai, December, 2016: Christmas celebrations has arrived early at Inorbit Malls! Last weekend Inorbit mall Malad and Vashi witnessed a lot of fun, drama and entertainment at the mega opening of the much-awaited International Clown Festival. Kids favorite clown Martin, also known as Flubber, along with other clowning talent from other countries swept the audience off the floor with some rib tickling performances. Not only kids but adults too enjoyed various acts of juggling, unicycling and acts that tickled the funny bones. The kids not only watched the performances but clicked pictures with their favorite clowns. Apart from performances there were also workshops on crafting balloon art, face painting and juggling.

The International Clown festival is a 10 day extravaganza which Inorbit mall will be hosting in Malad, Vashi, Bangalore, Vadodara, and Hyderabad. The ongoing clown festival will go on till 25^th of December. You visit your nearest Inorbit malls to watch live clowning acts and also participate in engaging workshops. After spectacular performances in Malad and Vashi, Martin and his team of International Clowns will be performing for 2 days at Vadodara, Hyderabad and Bangalore.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Puneet Varma, Associate Vice President, Marketing and Corporate Communications, said, “Clowning acts are quite popular, not only among kids but people from other age groups love it too. Last year we hosted the festival in Bangalore where we saw participation by approximately 1500 kids. This year Inorbit decided to take this across 5 locations. The opening of Clown Festival at Malad and Vashi has garnered tremendous response. Martin and his team’s performance was outstanding. With consumers being deprived of such performances due to lack of Circuses, Inorbit has created a platform for wholesome entertainment.”

Forthcoming Clown festival activities:

Performances and workshops: upto 25^th December 2016 at Inorbit Mall (Malad, Vashi, Vadodara, Hyderabad and Bangalore)

Time: 3pm to 8:30pm

A Pure Statement of Confidence and Style for Every Occasion.

The all-new MINI Clubman - The Gentleman, debuts in India.

Mumbai. The all-new MINI Clubman, the flagship of the MINI brand, was launched today in India and will be available at MINI Dealerships as a Completely Built-Up unit.

The perfect union of British craftsmanship and flawless German engineering, the all-new MINI Clubman is undoubtedly the biggest and the most sophisticated MINI ever built. Premiering in India for the first time, the all-new MINI Clubman makes an unforgettable first impression with its impeccable styling, meticulous craftsmanship and iconic MINI go-kart thrill.

In keeping with its quintessentially urban appeal, the all-new MINI Clubman was launched at an event celebrating style and substance. The versatile personality of the all-new MINI Clubman was showcased through an innovative fashion presentation of the ‘Ravi Bajaj Gentlemen Label’.

Mr. Frank Schloeder, President (act.), BMW Group India said, “The all-new MINI Clubman has the distinctive persona of a modern progressive gentleman – a connoisseur of understated style and refined craftsmanship! The all-new MINI Clubman is a perfect combination of form meets function. Every inch is artfully constructed and smartly accented with practicality in mind and embodies the genes of a true MINI with the iconic MINI go-kart thrill. Reigning at the higher end of the premium compact segment, this MINI flagship is a revolution with substantial growth in size. Whether you drive alone or with family, the-all new MINI Clubman is the perfect choice!”

The all-new MINI Clubman is available at an ex-showroom price of INR 3,790,000.

*Price prevailing at the time of invoicing will be applicable. Delivery will be made ex-showroom. Ex-showroom price (inclusive of 12.5% VAT) as applicable in New Delhi but excludes Road Tax, RTO statutory taxes/fees, Insurance and Octroi (if applicable).VAT over and above 12.5%, if applicable, will be charged extra. Prices and options are subject to change without prior notice. For further information, please contact your local Authorised MINI Dealer.

The all-new MINI Clubman is available as standard in the Moonwalk Grey metallic colour. The range of optional colours includes Pepper White, Volcanic Orange, Pure Burgundy, Digital Blue, Blazing Red, British Racing Green, Midnight Black, Deep Blue, Melting Silver, Thunder Grey and Lapisluxury Blue.

The range of standard upholstery combinations in all-new MINI Clubman include Cloth/Leather combination Cord Carbon Black | Carbon Black, Cloth/Leatherette combination Black Pearl Carbon Black | Carbon Black and Leatherette Carbon Black | Carbon Black. The range of optional upholstery includes Leather Cross Punch Carbon Black | Carbon Black; Leather Cross Punch Pure Burgundy | Carbon Black; Leather Chester Indigo Blue | Carbon Black; Leather Lounge Satellite Grey | Carbon Black; Leather Lounge MINI Yours Carbon Black | Carbon Black and JCW Sport Seats Dinamica / Leather Combination.

The all-new MINI Clubman.

The exterior of the all-new MINI Clubman belongs to a genre that combines iconic MINI design language with enhanced functionality. This is reflected by means of a stretched silhouette, a long roof line and a steep rear. The most eye-catching design element are the hallmark rear split-doors that immediately elevate the style quotient.

Circular headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lamps with chrome surrounds, hexagonal contours of the radiator grill and the vigorously arched power dome of the engine compartment lid add more flair to the already impressive front facia. The newly designed LED headlights and LED rear-lights further enhance the car’s sleek appearance.

The broad stance of the rear is exhibited in powerful shaping of shoulder contours, pronounced wheel arches and exhaust tailpipes that are set wide apart. Together, these highlight the breadth and stable stature of the all-new MINI Clubman.

Imposing spaciousness is an outstanding quality, thanks to clever space utilisation in typical MINI style. All occupants enjoy a roomy interior. Adjustable rear seat backrest and generous legroom guarantee first class comfort for rear passengers as well. Optional Electrically adjustable seatswith memory function for the driver and front passenger have been introduced for the first time in a MINI.

The interior of the all-new MINI Clubman blends modern aesthetics and refined craftsmanship with practical functionality. A clear signal of the more sophisticated character is the exceptionally wide instrument panel with cockpit facia frame. The central display is integrated into the visually appealing yet ergonomic dashboard. Surrounded by an LED ring and available with the 6.5-inch Radio MINI Visual Boost as standard, it serves as the most aesthetic display for managing functions related to infotainment, telephone, driver and the vehicle. The selection and control is facilitated by a Controller in the centre console.

Multi-function sport leather steering wheel and sports seats for driver and front passenger enhance the unique ‘go-kart’ feel. The optional panorama glass roof, largest in the MINI range, allows ample amounts of natural light and fresh air and increases the feel-good factor of the cabin. 

For enhanced personalisation there is also a choice of nine Upholstery options, including the new variant Leather Chester in an exclusive Indigo Blue shade. With their diagonal quilting, these new-generation seats evoke the look and feel of the classic Chesterfield sofa. With integrated sports seats, the all-new MINI Clubman delivers a contemporary interpretation of the Chesterfield diamond pattern in an automotive context.

The MINI Excitement Pack features LED interior and ambient lighting which illuminates the cabin with a choice of selectable colours as well as the projection of the MINI logo from the exterior mirror on the driver's side when opening and closing the car door. With the new optional MINI Yours Interior Style surfaces, the door trim design is highlighted via illuminated decorative strips.

Sleek as it is savvy, the all-new MINI Clubman is the epitome of form meets function. The interior is as practical as it is striking with numerous storage facilities, a large glove compartment, storage compartments in split doors and door pockets. Using the cargo function, boot capacity can be increased from 360 litres to 1,250 litres by folding down the rear backrest with its 40: 20: 40 split.

Another exciting feature is Easy Opener which allows the driver to open the boot via remote or simply by a foot waved below the rear bumper. The optional alarm system illuminates the red LED status light integrated in fin antenna allowing the car to be located easily in a crowd.

Driving excitement gives you a raft of tools to keep the adrenaline pumping in the all-new MINI Clubman. The 2-litre 4-cylinder engine with TwinPower Turbo Technology makes the all-new MINI Clubman higher on performance and lighter on fuel. It mobilises a peak output of 141 kW/192 hp and a maximum torque of 280 Nm torque. It sprints from 100 km/hr in 7.2 seconds and the top speed is 228 km/hr.

The standard 8-speed automatic steptronic transmission is available in a MINI for the first time, providing for even more efficient, comfortable and sporty driving due to a broader gear spread and smaller engine speed steps. The optional sports automatic steptronic transmission with shift paddles makes for even sportier driving.

MINI Driving Modes enable an individualised vehicle set-up focusing on either ride comfort, sportiness or efficiency, according to driver’s preference. In addition to the standard MID mode there is a choice of SPORT and GREEN mode.

Driver assistance systems include Cruise control and optional features like rear view camera, Parking Assistant and Head-Up Display.

The exciting world of MINI Connected comes with Radio MINI Visual Boost. Full functionality is available through the app downloaded via iTunes or Google Play Store. Bluetooth mobile connectivity, AUX-IN socket, USB interface guarantee round the clock infotainment. The optional MINI Wired package offers an 8.8 inch touch screen with Touchpad controller,Navigation System Professional, MINI Connected XL and a 20 GB internal hard drive for all media storage.

The all- new MINI Clubman is stacked with cutting-edge safety technology. The standard safety equipment comprises of Front and Passenger Airbags, Brake Assist, 3-Point Seat Belts, Dynamic Stability Control, Crash Sensor, Anti-lock Braking System, Cornering Brake Control and Run-flat Indicator.

The standard MINIMALISM technology includes an auto start/stop function, brake energy recuperation, active cooling air flaps and electromechanical power steering.

Top designers to associate with LIVA Protégé 2016

Upcoming fashion designers to get Launchpad with Liva Protégé

Monday, 12th December, Mumbai: LIVA, the leading fashion fabric brand from Aditya Birla Group has launched the 2nd season of LIVA Protégé, a nationwide search that seeks to recognize & reward the rising stars of the Indian fashion industry.

The first season of the talent hunt received huge appreciation & applaud from the industry stalwarts, this year LIVA Protégé has become bigger and has already created lot of excitement amongst aspiring fashion designers and fashion connoisseurs in India. Some of the biggest names in the fashion industry will be a part of LIVA Protégé 2016 in mentoring role such as Nachiket Barve, Shivan & Narresh, Anuj Sharma, Sounak Sen Barat & Dev R Nil.

This annual, pan-India search for budding fashion designers in India is open to final year fashion designing students. It is a perfect platform for them to showcase their talent at a national level and get mentored & trained by the visionaries in the industry. Over 100 students have already submitted their entries from fashion designing institutes across Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, South (Bangalore & Chennai). The entries for the first round will close on 14th December, 2016.

Post which, shortlisted 25 semi-finalists (Five from each city) will go through a grilling round of selection process by eminent jury and mentors. Top 10 finalists, will then be mentored and trained by these designers, who ultimately will create their signature fashion line using LIVA fabrics for the grand finale, which will be held in February 2017.  The three winners will be chosen amongst the finalists who will get the title winning place for LIVA Protégé 2016 along with cash prizes.

Celebrity fashion designer Nachiket Barve has recently won the prestigious “International Woolmark Prize”, which is considered as the ‘Oscars of fashion industry’

Shivan & Narresh is India’s first luxury swimwear brand that creates unique beach essentials. Recently, they designed customized swim trunks for Ranveer Singh for the film ‘Befikre’ which received a lot of attention from the audience.

Innovative fashion designer Anuj Sharma's brand ‘Button Masala’ uses rubber bands and buttons and allows wearers to use the same product multiple times. His designs have been a hit across India and he has even had his own section at a Ted Talk feature in India.

Sounak Sen Barat, Bangalore based designer has designed for premium brands like Peter England, Van Heusen Woman before launching his own fashion label House of Three. Recently, he also launched House of Three Menswear with CFW 2016.

Dev and Nil, are highly regarded for bringing contemporary designs to Indian fashion. They started in Kolkata in 2004 and ever since have bagged a few awards. They have also worked with film directors designing costumes for films and were part of movies like Rituparno Ghosh’s ‘Areki Premer Golpo’, Onir’s National award winning movie ‘I Am’ and Suman Mukhopadhya’s ‘Shesher Kobita’.

TATA ClassEdge launches ‘Thinking About Values’ books for children

Books will be available for Classes 1 to 5

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

December 12, 2016, Mumbai: TATA ClassEdge, a provider of innovative technology based learning solutions for schools, launched ‘Thinking About Values’, a series of books on values and life skills for classes 1 to 5, at their Principal Leadership Programme at Mumbai. ‘Thinking About Values’, based on NCERT’s values framework, is a unique contemporary take on values and life skills for children. These books were launched during Tata ClassEdge’s programme on leadership for school principals.

                                                                                                                                                                 

On the occasion, Sanjay Radhakrishnan, Chief Commercial Officer, Tata ClassEdge said, “In today’s rapidly changing world, increased exposure coupled with nuclear families and lack of guidance at home have made values and life skills a very important topic for discussion with children. However, these discussions are often seen as ‘preachy’ by children. Instead of a list of ‘rights’ and ‘wrongs’, children need to be taught how to confront situations or ethical dilemmas where they have to decide what action to take.”

The series includes visually rich stories and poems, exercises that encourage children to make decisions, easily accessible videos of the story and a journal section that involves discussion with family. Moreover, it covers contemporary topics such as needs v/s wants, sportsmanship, use of gadgets, dealing with strangers, helping at home, civic sense and more – all told in riveting ways. For example, punctuality is discussed through a story about a superhero who is always late; being inclusive is discussed through the story of a boisterous girl who loves football.

Dia Mirza marks a year as the inspiring Ambassador for GF initiatives

The second edition of ‘40 CEOs Sing for GF Kids’ ends on a rocking note

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• CEOs from 3 cities come together take center stage to raise funds for the treatment of critically ill under-privileged children

Mumbai, December 11, 2016: Genesis Foundation today held the second edition of its one-of-a-kind fundraiser – 40 CEOs Sing for GF Kids, in Mumbai. Business leaders from Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore came together once again to compete as teams, giving high-energy performances of old, new, Hindi and English songs, to support the treatment of critically ill under-privileged children in the areas of heart, cancer and thalassemia. 

The evening of spell-binding musical performances by leaders of boardrooms, divided in three teams from Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore, saw a friendly competition, where the corporate honchos exalted the audience with their repertoire of songs ranging from popular western to Bollywood! There were some leg-shaking performances, some gave us goose-bumps and some were purely inspiring.

The event was hosted by popular anchor and singer Mihir Joshi. The performances were evaluated by celebrated personalities like Zila Khan, Indian Sufi and classical singer, Lesle Lewis, Indian and Western fusion singer, and Ashish Manchanda, noted mixing and recording engineer, remixer and music producer.  We also saw singer Harshdeep Kaur of give a surprise performance.

The Delhi team, comprising of CEOs from Jubilant Foodworks, SAP, iBus Network, Global Access Learning Solutions, Cargill India, Napino Auto and Electronics, Modern Foods and McKinsey were announced winners. From Indipop to old Hindi film numbers the Delhi team were true to their name ‘Dil Se’ and gave a rocking performance of mostly upbeat numbers—straight from the heart.

Speaking at the event, Prema Sagar, Founder Trustee, Genesis Foundation expressed her gratitude and delight, “A delightful event with every person giving their time, effort and best wishes to support critically ill children. What more can one ask for! Just like last year, I am amazed at the commitment that our CEO supporters have for the cause to come all the way from different parts of India to participate in this event. It has been an incredible year for us and I want to express our heartfelt gratitude to each person associated with not just tonight’s event but with the Foundation in any big or small way. The task at hand is huge, but our supporters give us the reassurance that it’s not impossible.”

Also gracing the event, Dia Mirza, Actor, Producer, Humanitarian and Ambassador of Genesis Foundation said, “What an exciting, fun evening this was, coupled with the joy of supporting a beautiful cause! Every person associated with Genesis Foundation brings with them an energy that is positive and infectious and I have been fortunate to experience that this past year. These CEOs, setting their busy jobs and inhibitions aside to sing with abandon, the tireless team, the generous supporters—all make for a powerful force in the fight against the critical illnesses that under-privileged children are facing."

The CEOs who gave their valuable time—which is the most precious thing they have—for the event included:

This unique fund-raiser was supported by Fitbit, Inc, Star TV, Monster.com, Pernod Ricard, Gionee, Red Label Tea, ITC Hotel, Encompass, NewsVoir, Step Up, Quik Relations and GBM Content & Design Bureau.

An initiative to ‘Give Life A Chance’

Over the years, ‘CEOs Sing for GF Kids’ has created a community of CEOs who wholeheartedly support GF’s fund-raising initiatives to Give Life a Chance. In keeping with the Genesis Foundation’s core to build a participatory culture of giving, musically-inclined CEOs come together each year to raise funds for the critically ill and underprivileged children. “Over the years, the CEOs Sing events have created a community of supporters who don’t just give their time to participate in the singing events, like tonight’s 40 CEOs Sing For GF Kids, but with their influence, they also inspire their colleagues and other people to give their support to the cause of Genesis Foundation,” said Jyoti Sagar, Founder Trustee, Genesis Foundation.

Other fund-raising initiatives by Genesis Foundation

In order to raise awareness and resources to facilitate medical assistance to GF Kids, GF has created unusual and unique participative fundraising events involving music, art and food. Some of these events are Kasauli Rhythm & Blues Festival, CEOs Cook for GF Kids, Music for Life events, among others. Last year saw the addition of another musical event called the Goa Rhythm & Blues Festival, held in Goa for the first time.

About Genesis Foundation  

Genesis Foundation facilitates medical treatment for critically ill under-privileged children in the areas of Heart, Cancer and Thalassemia.

Genesis Foundation facilitates medical treatment for critically ill under-privileged children in the areas of Heart, Cancer & Thalassemia. Support from GF in the said critical illnesses, varies from specific medical intervention, recovery and recuperation, to extended treatments like surgeries, chemotherapy and follow-up medicines post surgeries.

GF has provided support to 1000-plus critically ill children and hope to Give Life a Chance for many more. 100% of funds raised are dedicated towards treatment of critically ill children as all overhead costs are borne by the trustees.  

GF is registered under section 80-G of the Income Tax Act of 1961, which entitles 50% tax exemption.  To know more, visit - www.genesis-foundation.net.

Supporters:

Manisha Sood, Country General Manager-India, Fitbit Inc.

"It has been an evening spent well and we are proud to be the title sponsor of Genesis Foundation’s flagship event in our third year of association. We hope that our endeavour and efforts will help in spreading smiles through the treatment of critically ill children. The Genesis Foundation team has done some fantastic work to treat the kids and we had a fabulous time with the audience today that took time out of off their busy schedule to contribute for this noble cause.”

Sanjay Modi, Managing Director, Monster.Com, APAC & Middle East

“It was an absolutely enthralling evening of music and celebration of life. Clearly we saw that music does cut across boundaries and creates magic when it is for such a noble cause. It truly has been enriching for all of us at Monster to consistently partner with Genesis Foundation and team GF visibly love what they do. We appreciate their spirit, hard work and dedication and congratulate them for putting together this successful show.”

Performing CEOs:

Shireesh Joshi, Head Strategic Marketing for Godrej Group

“I have been associated with Genesis Foundation right from the year they started in Gurgaon. It’s an honour and a pleasure to be a part of this association as they try to give back to the causes that they support through music, which is my first love as well. Hence it’s the best of everything, it’s a chance to give and a chance to have great fun with friends you love being with. I have done most of the charity in my life through Genesis, it’s the 6th year and counting and have managed to do a few others as well.”

Sanjay Kapoor, Chairman iBus Networks

“It’s a fulfilling feeling to be able to do something for the under-privileged kids that are associated with Genesis Foundation. I have been associated with Genesis Foundation since over three years now and it’s been an incredible journey. Events like these give CEOs like me a chance to unwind and unbridle from our daily lives.”

Sanjiv Sarin, MD and CEO of TATA Coffee Ltd

“I have been associated with Genesis Foundation for the past 5 years now. Genesis has put together a very brilliant platform and the kind of work they are doing has given a chance to everyone to come together to sing for a common cause. I believe in giving back to the society in every possible way I can and what Genesis does is helps critically ill children and bring a ray of hope in their lives. I feel I am blessed to be able to be a part of such an organization and hope to continue this association in the years to come.”

Honor smartphones and Sports For All come together to bring a wave of change in grassroot sports

Ace Badminton player and Honor smartphone’s brand ambassador, Saina Nehwal graces the SFA 2016 to celebrate Girls Day

India, December 11, 2016: Honor, Huawei’s Smartphone e-brand for digital natives, partnered with Sports For All (SFA), an initiative that is aimed at revolutionising the way school sports is played in India. And in their endeavour to encourage larger participation of girls in sports, SFA had organised a special ‘Girls Day’, which saw the Ace Indian shuttler and brand ambassador for Honor, Saina Nehwal showcased her support towards this initiative and encouraged young sports enthusiasts to pursue their passion at the DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai.

At the event, Saina lauded the efforts of the SFA and thanked Honor for rendering support towards this initiative. The 2012 London Olympics bronze medalist was overwhelmed to see the number of girls participating in various sporting categories and felt the current scenario where schools and parents are not stepping back from encouraging girls to take active part in sports, only augurs well for the future of sports in India. The former world no. 1 not only gave an inspirational rendition to the young champions present in the venue but also took time out share important tips with them. Speaking on the occasion Saina said, “It’s a pleasure to be associated with an event of this stature that brings together young Indian athletes and gives them an opportunity to learn and develop their skills. Being a sportsperson myself, I do realize the importance of professional training and fitness regimes and I’m glad this initiative aims at bridging the necessary gaps. It’s a great feeling to see so many girls pursue sports as a profession and I feel proud of the immense sporting talent our country has. Thanks to companies like Honor, these talented individuals will now have an opportune platform to hone their talent.”

Speaking on the association, Mr. P Sanjeev, Vice president (sales), Huawei India Consumer Business group said, “The youth today believe in being brave and aren’t afraid of treading onto unconventional paths. Honor, too, has believed in supporting brave initiatives like the SFA that leave a lasting impact on society. Our association with SFA enables us to nurture the young sporting talent in India and celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship. Saina has had a brave story to tell and is an inspiration to many young boys and girls. We are glad to have her with us at the SFA Mumbai 2016.”

At the SFA Mumbai 2016, Saina encouraged young and aspiring badminton champions and handed over Honor fitness bands to them. The event, that saw over 30,000 kids participate in the three-week sporting extravaganza which includes 25 different sporting categories.  SFA is a singular, integrated and an all-inclusive platform for young athletes, coaches and sporting services for schools with a focused approach and is committed to the cause of creating future champions. SFA is an endeavor to enable the next generation athletes to have access to a sporting environment that match international standards and aims enable the next generation athletes from every school who aspire to represent India. 

Rishikesh Joshi, the founder and the brain behind SFA, lauded Honor for extending their support towards the initiative and believes that it is the continued support from companies like them that will help in creating a good sporting culture in the country. Adding to this, Rishikesh Joshi, Founder SFA, said, “We are glad to partner with Honor in our endeavor to realize the true sporting potential present in India. We aim at nurturing the Indian sporting talent from a very young age through annual multi inter-school tournaments at top notch venues. We at SFA believe that to build a strong sporting culture in the country, we will have to groom them young, make the kids believe in their dream and create a system which will enable to grow into a professional athlete,” Rishikesh Joshi said.