* Total advances stand at Rs.1038.79 crores

* Annual profit grows 2.5% to touch Rs. 22.85 crores

Mumbai/Kochi, April 19: Muthoot Capital Services Ltd (MCSL), the first listed entity of the 129-year old Muthoot Pappachan Group, has crossed Rs 1000 crores-loan book on the back of aggressive two wheeler loan financing and diversification into corporate lending. The company has also registered an impressive all-round performance, according to the audited financial results for the quarter and year ended 31st March 2016.

The Board of Directors which met in Kochi today approved the results that showed remarkable improvement in the topline and bottom-line of the NBFC, mainly driven by innovative products, aggressive strategies and entry into new markets. MCSL is a leading national player in the two-wheeler financing segment. 

The net profit increased during the quarter, from Rs. 6.16 crores to Rs. 6.87 crores, recording a growth of 11.53% from the same period last year. The total income has increased to Rs. 63.41 crores during the quarter ended 31^st March 2016, from Rs. 51.98 crores during the same period last year, registering a growth of 22%. Interest expenditure increased from Rs. 19.62 crores during the same period last year to Rs. 22.34 crores, recording an increase of 13.86%. The total expenses during the corresponding period recorded an increase of 24%, up from Rs. 42.25 crores to Rs. 52.45 crores. The profit before tax recorded an increase of 12.54% from Rs. 9.73 crores during the corresponding period of last year to Rs. 10.95 crores during the quarter ended 31^st March 2016.

Commensurate with the quarterly figures, the yearly results also showed an impressive growth, with total income increasing to Rs. 228.49 crores compared to Rs. 191.29 crores during 2014-’15, recording a growth of 19.44%. The interest expenses during the period went up from Rs. 76.77 crores to Rs. 87 crores, which is an increase of 13.33%. The total expenses rose from Rs.157.12 crores to Rs. 193.04 crores, recording an increase of 22.86%. As a result, the profit before tax for the year ended 31^st March 2016 was Rs. 35.45 crores, which was 3.75% higher than Rs. 34.17 crores for the previous year. The net profit for the year at Rs. 22.85 crores was higher by 2.5% compared to Rs. 22.29 crores for the previous year.

The improved performance of the Company was the direct result of a substantial growth in loan disbursements by the Company. The Company’s foray into corporate and other business loans also helped boost the loan disbursements. The total loan disbursements by the Company for the quarter ended 31^st March 2016 was Rs. 314.65 crores. This comprised of two wheeler loans totalling Rs 234.76 crores, and Corporate and other business loans totalling Rs.79.89 crores. Considering the whole year, the loan disbursement was Rs. 927.96 crores compared to Rs. 648.84 crores for the previous year. This comprised of 1,67,204 two wheeler loans totalling Rs. 780.02 crores in 2015-2016, compared to 1,38,832 two wheeler loans amounting to Rs. 592.45 crores in the previous year. SME and corporate loans disbursements increased from Rs. 56.39 crores last year to Rs. 147.94 crores this year.

The determination of NPA based on a stricter 5-month norm for the year, compared to the 6 month norm in the previous year, led to an increased drag on the profits of the Company. Profitability was impacted through reversal of unrealized interest and provisions on NPA, loss on sale of repossessed assets and writing off of assets totaling to Rs 19.62 crores as against Rs 15.55 crores in the previous year. Also, the Company has made an additional provision of Rs. 0.53 crores towards anticipated NPAs in future.  However, in spite of all these, the Company was still able to improve the profits for the year.

The Board also confirmed the interim dividend of Rs. 5.50 per share (55%) declared on 11^th March 2016 as the final dividend for the year 2015-16.

Commenting on the results, Muthoot Capital’s Managing Director Mr. Thomas George Muthoot said the excitement was largely on account of looking at business opportunities beyond the existing two-wheeler financing in the already established markets.

The Company, after successful operations in South India and Western India, has expanded into the North Indian and East Indian markets besides diversifying into SME and corporate loans.

“One of the key drivers for the company all these years was its commitment for innovative products like the Ladies Only scheme through which in the last 18 months we disbursed loans to about 55,000 ladies from all walks of life totaling to about Rs 250 crores. The focus on other business loans helped a lot in burgeoning the loan book, besides adding to income and profitability. Even in the HR segment, we adopted new methods that finally made a difference in the bottom-line, apart from improving the efficiency. Moreover, it is a remarkable landmark for the company to cross the Rs 1000-crore mark in loan book” he said.

“The company has already disbursed more than 6 lakhs loans till date in the two-wheeler financing segment. The total number of live accounts as on 31^st March 2016 stood at approx. 3.79 lakhs and the total outstanding loan amount was Rs. 1038.79 crores, including Corporate and other business loans”.

“MCSL intends to improve the profitability over the coming years by tapping into additional sources of funding like non-convertible debentures, commercial papers etc., apart from the traditional sources like bank loans and public deposits,” Mr Thomas George Muthoot added.

“We will continue with our expansion plans and enter more markets in the coming months. We have been regularly stressing on innovation, looking for cost effective options of out-sourcing our field operations, in back office functions, sales and collection. This is expected to have a positive impact on the balance sheet over the coming years.” said Mr. R Manomohanan, CEO of the Company. 

The launch of the hassle-free e-payment facility for its auto loan customers, launched this year, also has been a hit with its two-wheeler loan customers. It is meant to ease transaction process in keeping with the changing times. This enables Muthoot Capital’s large number of two-wheeler loan customers to repay the principal amount and remit the interest in bulk or part through the e-payment facility (using debit card or net banking) that would make transactions faster and easier.

Club Mahindra Resorts in Coorg & Munnar Receive 2 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice™ awards for Family Hotels

* Club Mahindra Madikeri, Coorg ranks #13 in Asia and #3 in India

* Club Mahindra Munnar ranks #22 in India

Mumbai, 19th April, 2016: Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Limited (MHRIL, Club Mahindra), has won the TripAdvisorTravellers’ Choice Hotels for Families award for two of its finest resorts – Club Mahindra Madikeri, Coorg and Club Mahindra Munnar.

While Club Mahindra Madikeri, Coorg has featured on TripAdvisor’s award lists for both Asia and India, Club Mahindra Munnar has been mentioned in the India list. Unlike other hotel honours, TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice winners are based on millions of valuable reviews and opinions from travellers across the world.

Award winners were determined using an algorithm that took into account the quantity and quality of reviews from travellers on TripAdvisor which were gathered over a 12-month period with emphasis placed on reviews marked as a family stay. Club Mahindra has the distinction of receiving this award consistently for its resorts for the past 5 years.

“The brand Club Mahindra is synonymous with magical family vacations and our teams are dedicated to maintain global standards of service across all our resorts. We are grateful to our guests for sharing their wonderful experiences, thereby helping us win the coveted TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards. They are a great source of encouragement for the teams to continue to deliver excellence and delight our guests.” said Mr. Kavinder Singh, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Limited

Commenting on the announcement, Nikhil Ganju, Country Manager, TripAdvisor India said, “It’s that time of the year when families start planning their summer break and TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice list for family-friendly hotels offers great options to choose from. With travellers using terms like ‘lush green’ and ‘private piece of the forest’, ‘fun for the entire family’ etc. to describe these properties in their reviews, it’s no surprise that their properties are a part of this year’s list. Heartiest congratulations to the entire Club Mahindra team.”

To see TripAdvisor traveller reviews for Club Mahindra Madikeri, Coorg, please visit https://www.tripadvisor.in/Hotel_Review-g641714-d1156207-Reviews-Club_Mahindra_Madikeri_Coorg-Madikeri_Kodagu_Coorg_Karnataka.html#REVIEWS

To see TripAdvisor traveler reviews for Club Mahindra Munnar, please visit

https://www.tripadvisor.in/Hotel_Review-g968378-d621707-Reviews-Club_Mahindra_Munnar-Chinnakanal_Kerala.html

For the complete list of winners from the 2016 Travellers’ Choice Awards for Family Hotels, more reviews and candid traveller photos, go to: www.tripadvisor.in/TravellersChoice-Hotels-cFamily

TripAdvisor is the world’s largest travel site*. Travellers can read millions of reviews and opinions and book their next trip at: https://www.tripadvisor.in/

We are sure, you would want some mid week treat to keep the week going on. At The Big Kahuna, we present to you Wednesday Bar Nights where you can come and enjoy our tropical, laid back vibe that will make your night an exciting and a fun filled one. Make the most of it with our exciting offer of Unlimited drinks from a special IMFL Menu priced at INR 499++ valid for one hour, every Wednesday, 8 PM onwards.

What: Bar Nights at The Big Kahuna

When: Every Wednesday, 8 pm onwards

Where: The Big Kahuna, 1st Floor, Bangalore, 775, 100 Feet Rd, Indira Nagar 1st Stage, Doopanahalli, Indiranagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560008

Contact: 080 69990180 for more details

Experience digital extravaganza with Sony’s new α6300, the World’s Fastest Autofocus camera

* New Mirrorless Camera Features World’s Fastest AF speed

* Highest Number of AF points plus Newly Developed 24.2 MP APS-C Sensor

* High Resolution 4K Video Recording

Chennai, April 19, 2016: Being committed towards delivering top notch imaging products, Sony India today announced the launch of α6300, its latest addition to the award winning line-up of mirrorless cameras. With this, Sony advances in providing an unrivalled 4D FOCUS™ system that can lock focus on a subject in as little as 0.05 seconds which is the world’s fastest AF acquisition time[1]. The α6300 boasts of having the world’s highest number of AF points on any interchangeable lens camera[2] with an incredible 425 phase detection AF points that are densely positioned over the entire image area. Furthermore, the camera can shoot images at up to 11 frames per second with continuous autofocus and exposure tracking.

This impressive new mirrorless model has the ability to support full live-view continuous shooting on the Tru-Finder™ or LCD screen at up to 8 frames per second, ultimately producing a real-time shooting experience that combines all the benefits of an electronic viewfinder with the immediacy of a through-the-lens optical viewfinder. 

The versatile α6300 camera is equipped with a newly developed 24.2 MP[3]  APS-C sized Exmor CMOS sensor that works together with a BIONZ X image processing engine to produce outstanding image quality throughout the entire ISO sensitivity range ISO 100 – 51200[4].

The camera has the potential to shoot and record high resolution 4K video with full pixel readout and no pixel binning in the popular Super 35mm format.(recording time up to 29 minutes)

Unrivalled AF Performance

The new α6300 builds upon the acclaimed 4D FOCUS performance of the α6000 model, utilising a Fast Hybrid AF system that combines high-speed phase detection AF with extremely accurate contrast AF and allows it to capture and lock on to moving subjects in as little as 0.05 seconds. The camera’s High-density Tracking AF technology positions 425 phase detection AF points over nearly the entire field of view, allowing it to accurately focus throughout a wide area – even on small, fast objects that other cameras would fail to recognise. 

Adding to the extensive AF coverage, the α6300 debuts a new high-density tracking AF technology that significantly improves subject detection and tracking performance. This new technology can quickly activate a large number of AF points surrounding a subject – approximately 7.5 times more density than the α6000 – and intelligently adjust them in accordance with the subject’s motion. This is a particularly powerful feature when used with high-speed 11 fps continuous shooting or the new 8 fps continuous live-view mode, which provides 100% accurate framing for fast moving subjects on the LCD screen or viewfinder.

The camera’s 425 phase detection AF points, enhanced tracking and focus accuracy are all available on the α6300 when using A-mount lenses[5] with a mount adaptor like the Sony LA-EA3. This is a first for Sony E-mount interchangeable lens cameras with an APS-C sized sensor, as the only other cameras to feature this capability are the full-frame α7R II and α7 II models.

Other enhancements to the α6300 include silent shooting functionality, the ability to use AF in focus magnifier mode, expanded flexible spot AF, Eye AF in AF-C mode and more. 

Powerful 24.2 MP Exmor CMOS Sensor and BIONZ X Processor

In order to maximize efficiency and overall camera performance, the α6300 features a new 24.2 MP sensor that is an ideal match for its BIONZ X image processing engine. 

The new image sensor employs copper wiring in its structure, which improves light collection efficiency and significantly accelerates readout speed. The BIONZ X processor features an upgraded image processing algorithm designed to maximize the sensor’s overall capabilities.  Together, the two key components work together to produce images with low noise and exceptional resolution in sensitivity settings up to ISO 51200, in particular in the mid-to-high sensitivity range. 

Ultimate 4K Resolution and Other Professional Video Capabilities

In another first for non-full-frame Sony interchangeable lens cameras, the new α6300 offers internal 4K movie recording in Super 35mm format. When shooting in 4K, the camera uses full pixel readout without pixel binning to collect 20 megapixels of information – approximately 2.4x[6] (6K equivalent) as many pixels as 4K (3840 x 2160) UHD and then oversamples the information to produce high quality footage with exceptional detail and depth.

The camera utilises the XAVC S codec[7] during video shooting, which records at a high bit rate of 100 Mbps during 4K recording and 50 Mbps during standard Full HD shooting, ensuring maximum detail and clarity in both video formats. Additionally, the camera will focus approximately twice as fast as its predecessor during movie shooting thanks to its new and improved AF system. AF speed and AF tracking sensitivity are also adjustable for expanded creativity.

Other professional calibre video features include the ability to record Full HD at 120 fps at 100 Mbps[8], another first for α interchangeable lens cameras with APS-C sized sensors. This mode allows footage to be reviewed and eventually edited into 4x or 5x slow motion video files in Full HD[9] (24p or 30p) resolution with AF tracking. The new α6300 also offers S-Log gamma recording[10] for wide dynamic range shooting – approximately 14-stop latitude in S-Log3 gamma setting – and supports S-Gamut for a wider colour space. Both options allow for greater creativity for processing video post-production.

The α6300 also comes equipped with a microphone line input that accepts external microphones and supports XLR input with Sony’s XLR adapter kit, as well as Gamma Display Assist, a new function that allows users to monitor images or check focus when recording S-Log movies. It also carries with it enhanced Zebra functionality for greater exposure control and has availability of Picture profile settings, Time Code / User Bit and much more. 

Enhanced Operability and Ergonomics

The α6300 camera is equipped with a high contrast, high-resolution XGA OLED Tru-Finder™ with approximately 2.4 million dots that offers exceptional corner-to-corner visibility. There is also a new mode available for the viewfinder that allows display of images at 120 fps, ensuring that action is displayed smoothly with very few afterimages, making subject tracking through the Tru-Finder™ easier than ever.   

Aesthetically, this new camera features an extremely solid feel in hand due to its robust, magnesium alloy design. It can be customised to fit nearly any shooting style or preferences, with 9 customisable buttons that one of 64 different functions can be assigned to. The camera adds a digital level gauge as well as upgraded dust and moisture resistance[11], a reinforced lens mount structure and a new shutter release button and mode dial with improved operability and grip.

It is also Wi-Fi® and NFC compatible and fully functional with Sony’s PlayMemories Mobile™ application available for Android™ and iOS platforms, as well as Sony’s growing range of PlayMemories Camera Apps™, which add a variety of creative capabilities to the camera. It also supports QR code for easy connection to non-NFC smart phones.

The newly launched product will be available at all Sony Center, Alpha flagship stores and major electronic stores across India.

[1] Among interchangeable lens cameras equipped with an APS-C sized sensor as of February 2016, based on Sony research. Measured using CIPA-compliant guidelines and internal method with an E PZ 16-50 F3.5-5.6 OSS lens mounted. Pre-AF off and viewfinder in use

[2] Among interchangeable lens cameras as of February 2016, based on Sony research

[3] Approximate effective MPs

[4] Expandable up to ISO 51200 for stills and up to ISO 25600 for movies

[5] A-mount lenses with SSM or SAM only. Users can choose phase-detection AF or contrast-detection AF in AF System menu

[6] 1.6x in 30p setting

[7] An SDHC/SDXC memory card with a Class 10 or higher speed rating is required for XAVC S recording

[8] UHS Class 3 memory card is required for recording at 100Mbps

[9] Number of pixels required for Full HD movie recording is read out from the image sensor

[10] S-Log2 and S-Log3 are based on processing pictures

[11] This camera is designed for optimal dust and moisture resistance, but is not waterproof or splash proof. For FE lens only

(Every Tuesday 10.00 pm)

Everything starts with a good note and intention. Peppers TV proudly presents “Mini Cinema” best way of storytelling through 30 minutes.

Mini Cinema is a best entertainment heavily passionate about telling the whole story through a capsule 30 minutes. Main emotions, songs, comedy and the story knot at your halls within 30 minutes.Our goal is to deliver the best out of the film and enriching experience for every fan of cinema. It’s a theater experience for the viewers that are creative and entertaining. Get ready with snacks to watch your favorite actors and actress.

Black and white films have many achievements. Such a milestone of their information about the movies in the mini cinema show has aired Peppers TV.

This program airs on Every Tuesday 10.00pm in Peppers TV.

Amazing deals on products across the technology and lifestyle segments

National, April 15, 2016: As the country has started feeling the heat wave, India’s leading marketplace eBay India (www.ebay.in) has come to the rescue with its latest campaign ‘50 days of summer’. As part of the campaign, the ecommerce pioneer will roll out deals of its leading sellers for the coming 50 days of summer where consumers will be presented with an array of deals to beat the heat and cool off as they shop for products across the technology and lifestyle segment. The campaign commences from 15^th April and will go on till 3^rd June, 2016.

The e-tailer has curated amazing deals on products such as air conditioners, coolers, trendy summer dresses and much more. Kids too are in for special treat, as sellers of ebay.in presents them with special discounts on indoor and outdoor games to enjoy their summer holidays. For the beauty conscious consumers, ebay.in has some exciting offers in the skincare and hair range.

* Upto 29% off on home appliances

* Upto 70% off on clothing and accessories

* Upto 50% off on Indoor and Outdoor games

* Upto 30% off on skincare products

Commenting on the promotional campaign, Ms. Shivani Suri, Director, Marketing, eBay India said, “At eBay India it is our constant endeavor to present specially devised campaigns addressing the requirements of our consumers. The ‘50 days of summer’ campaign will allow our shoppers to avail exciting deals across a range of products. We aim to make eBay India a one stop destination this summer season with huge discounts from best sellers across categories for the next 50 days.”

All transactions for such products are backed by the eBay Guarantee of 100% satisfaction or refund or replacement for hassle free indulgence. Consumers can purchase these products on EMI through ICICI, Citibank and HDFC, credit cards. Cash on Delivery option for supported locations is also available for some products.  Consumers can also earn and redeem PAYBACK points on eBay India. 

* Retains position as India’s leading three-wheeler firm in FY16 with record breaking sales of 2,54,967 units

* Achieves 9% surge in total three-wheeler sales, against the industry growth of 1%.

* 6% growth in their Diesel Passenger sales against an Industry fall of 2%; Targets leadership in the three-wheeler diesel passenger segment by FY-17

19th April 2016: Bajaj Auto, world’s largest three-wheeler manufacturer has out-performed the three-wheeler Industry and retained its position as India’s leading three-wheeler firm in FY-16. Bajaj Auto, which is synonymous for its revolutionary three-wheeler brands like Compact, Compact+, and Maxima, recorded record breaking sales of 2,54,967 during the fiscal year. Bajaj Auto is targeting selling 3,00,000 three wheelers in FY17 – with a growth of 17% over FY-16

In FY-16, Bajaj Auto launched a new range of Diesel vehicles – Compact, Compact+, and Maxima – with Power clutch in the whole range and CV joints in Compact+ and Maxima, during the second half of the fiscal. The customer response for these highly efficient and superior products has been overwhelming. This overwhelming response and demonstrating the vehicles’ superiority through Power Challenges has helped the company gain market share in the Diesel category.

Additionally, a new Cargo vehicle on the Maxima platform was also launched in the last quarter of the fiscal. Similar to the Passenger counterpart, this product is also vastly superior in terms of end user benefits and feature to most three wheeler cargo products in the market.

Commenting on the milestone Mr. R C Maheshwari, President (Commercial Vehicle Business) Bajaj Auto said “Our performance over the years is a true testament of Bajaj Auto’s leadership in offering some of the world’s finest three-wheeler products. We have seen significant growth in the Petrol + Alternate fuel vehicle category, where Bajaj Auto has a share of 90% of the market. Backed by overwhelming customer response to our new range of Diesel passenger vehicles and our strategic re-entry into the three wheeler Cargo industry with a superior product, we are now targeting leadership in the Diesel Passenger segment and a Double digit growth in FY17.”

Bajaj Auto Three Wheelers also beat the industry performance, with a 9% surge in total three-wheeler sales, against the industry growth of 1%. The company saw its Diesel Passenger vehicles sales grow by 6% while the industry three-wheeler diesel passenger vehicle sales fell by 2%. The company continues to dominate the Petrol and Alternate fuel vehicle segments with an enviable market share of 90%.

SNOOPY MUSEUM TOKYO opens April 23, 2016 with first exhibition, My Favorite Peanuts

The Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center and Sony Creative Products Inc. have announced that the Snoopy Museum Tokyo will open its doors April 23, 2016 in Roppongi, Tokyo. This temporary museum, which will be open for two and one-half years, is the first outside of the United States dedicated to the art of Charles M. Schulz, with its founding museum—Charles M. Schulz Museum—located where Schulz lived in Santa Rosa, California.

My Favorite Peanuts, the first of five rotating exhibitions organized by staff at the Charles M. Schulz Museum, features an engaging selection of approximately 60 original comic strips specially selected by Jean Schulz, the wife of Peanuts creator Charles Schulz. These strips reflect her favorite themes in Peanuts. The exhibition also includes personal gifts she has received from fans over the years.

Each of the rotating exhibitions offers a unique experience where visitors can view original comic strips, early works by Charles Schulz, vintage merchandise, and other valuable artifacts from the collection of the Charles M. Schulz Museum. Snoopy Museum Tokyo’s museum store, named BROWN’S STORE, features products specially designed for the Museum. Cafe Blanket offers Peanuts-related food and drinks.

The opening exhibition of the Snoopy Museum is MY FAVORITE PEANUTS, featuring sixty of Charles M. Schulz’s original Peanuts cartoons, personally selected by his wife, Jean Schulz.

Jean will share the stories behind her favorite Peanuts artworks, such as a treasured comic strip that her husband personally colored and gave her for Valentine’s Day, and a charming series of cartoons that uses the very nickname she called him by⎯“Sweet Babboo.”

These original and specially selected artworks express the warmth of the cartoonist, his strong love towards family, and the secrets behind his iconic cast of characters.

Snoopy Museum Tokyo General Information:

Name: Snoopy Museum Tokyo

Open: April 23, 2016 – September 2018

Address: 5-6-20 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo Management: Sony Creative Products Inc. Satellite Museum of: Charles M. Schulz Museum & Research Center

http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/topics/pk424g000002qn5h-att/pk424g000002qnde.pdf

Dehradun: Unidentified gunmen shot dead a doctor on duty at the Jashpur Government Hospital in Uttarakhand's Udham Singh Nagar district this morning. Paediatrician Dr. Sunil Kumar Singh was on OPD duty when he was shot and killed at a point blank range.

The 40-year-old doctor hails from Bihar's Gaya District and stays with his family in the hospital campus. A investigation has been ordered into the incident.

For a girls’ night out or a dinner date with your better half, this collection helps you seamlessly transition from ethnic elegance to a contemporary avatar, effortlessly!

Dewy fresh, gentle, suffused with colours, rich in grace and beauty is the lotus. Almost glowing from within, it makes its presence felt gently.

Tanishq’s Niloufer collection, meaning  water lily in Persian, brings to the discerning woman’s jewel box the harmony and tenderness of the lotus. The rich hues in each piece gradually awaken from white to blush, to pink; symbolic of the lotus flower’s journey from bud to bloom.

The collection starts from INR 35,000/-

Grab the spotlight, and glow like never before with Lakmé’s latest range of products

Chennai, April, 2016: With Lakme, you can now glow like a goddess exuding a luminous radiance! India’s No.1 colour cosmetics brand - Lakmé is back with its progressive style statement for the season and it’s all about an illuminated look and the products used to create it. Inspired by the shimmer and sparkle of a precious crystal, the new product range consists of Shimmer Lipsticks, a new Eyeshadow Palette, Eye Liner, Kajal and Nail Colors.

Be ready to sparkle with red carpet lustre with Lakmé Absolute Illuminating Lip Shimmer! The new range, with micro mirror technology, comes in a striking palette consisting of fifteen shades that deliver rich colour sheen with a reflective shimmer finish. Priced at Rs. 700/-

The Lakmé Absolute Illuminating Eye Shadow Palette available in Blue and Gold colour for that perfect Day & Night look comprises six eye shadows options in satin and shimmer finish. Priced at Rs. 995/-

Giving your eye makeup a professional touch is the new Lakmé Absolute Precision Eye Artist Eyeliner available in 3 breath-taking metallic shades: Emerald Green, Blue Sapphire and Burnished Brown. Priced at Rs. 850/-

The Lakmé Absolute Precision Eye Artist Kajal is a twist up variant that delivers a rich black finish. Priced at Rs. 750/-

For the perfect finishing touch to your overall look, Lakme has introduced a new palette of 10 desirable, glitter textured shades to the Lakme Absolute Gel Stylist. Priced at Rs. 400/-

From L to R: Mr. Anand Mohanram, Head of India center for Nationstar, Mr. Jay Bray, President & Chief Executive Officer and Mr. Sridhar Sharma, Chief Information Officer

Chennai, India (April 20, 2016) – Today, Nationstar Mortgage Holdings Inc., a leading residential mortgage services provider in the United States with approximately 2.5 million customers, announced the launch of a new state-of-the-art product development center in Chennai, India.

Located in at DLF IT Park, Nationstar’s India Product Development Center will play a key role in the company’s transformation to become the most customer-centric home loan company in the U.S.

“Companies that provide the best customer experience win, and we’re on a journey to create the best customer experience in the mortgage industry,” said Jay Bray, Nationstar President and Chief Executive Officer. “Technology and product development will play a critical role in our mission to keep the dream of home ownership alive. This new center represents our long-term commitment to creating best-in-class products that make the home loan process more rewarding and less worrisome for our customers.”

The new facility was formally inaugurated by Mr. Bray alongside Nationstar Chief Information Officer Sridhar Sharma and Anand Mohanram, head of the India Product Development Center. With the launch of the new center, Nationstar plans to hire approximately 300 software engineers in 2016 and further expand to more than 500 employees in 2017.

“Our team in Chennai will focus on digital and mobile transformation, data analytics and automation of key business functions,” said Anand. “The India Product Development Center will be an open, collaborative environment consistent with Nationstar’s core values of being Champions for our customers, Challengers of convention and Cheerleaders for our team.”

- LAUNCHES INDIA’S FIRST WEB BASED REGIONAL TRADING PLATFORM ‘KITE’

- ANNOUNCES ZERO BROKERAGE AND MUTUAL FUND BUSINESS

Hyderabad, April 20th, 2016: ZERODHA, India’s leading online brokerage firm, today launched its web based trading portal KITE in TELUGU.It also announces ZERO brokerage on all equity investments and the start of its MUTUAL FUND business.

For ZERO brokerage, there will be no upfront fees, no minimum volume, no special terms and conditions, no clauses, no strings attached.

Andhra Pradesh & Telangana forms one of the most important markets for ZERODHA and currently, it has 2 branches and 11 partner support offices to meet the ever growing client requirements. With branches in Hyderabad and Vijayawada, it has partner offices across cities like Vizag, Rajahmudry, Tirupathi, Ananthapur, Warangal, Guntur to name a few.

KITE is a minimalistic web based trading platform that adapts to mobiles and tablet. It also offers everything a traditional platform does, and a lot more, through a very minimalistic interface. The interface is so simple and self explanatory, anyone with basic knowledge can login and start trading without training.

Speaking more on this significant development, Nithin Kamath, Founder & CEO – ZERODHA said, “The investment culture has to be nurtured, and we intend to do this not just by offering zero brokerage, but an extremely easy user experience with KITE in Telugu and providing more options for investment with our Mutual Fund platform. Our plan is to reach out to the next 5 million participants who are currently not investing and show them how stock market can create wealth if invested for long term.”

KITE is integrated with an advanced behavioural analytics and visualization platform, called Quant, which helps traders understand their trading behaviour to make informed investment decisions. KITE search across 70,000+ stocks and instruments across multiple exchanges instantly.

Adding more on the development, Karthik Rangappa, Vice President – Equity & Research, ZERODHA, said, "With a trading platform in Telugu, language is no longer a barrier for the trading/investing community. We are certain that KITE's superior technology wrapped up and presented in a local language will not only ensure seamless access to markets, but also make the whole trading experience enjoyable". 

KITE also provide live streaming prices for all the instruments and buy sell with just two clicks, or completely using keyboard shortcuts. It has advanced technical analysis charting (99 indicators) and 5 years of free historical data for all stocks.

Apart from TELUGU, KITE is now available in Tamil, Marathi, Kannada, Malayalam, Punjabi, Gujarati, Bengali, Odia and plan is to make it available in other major Indian languages in months to come.

Link to KITE: https://kite.zerodha.com/

ZERODHA’s NEW MUTUAL FUND PLATFORM

To encourage the investing culture among people and to offer a whole gamut of financial services, ZERODHA has introduces its MUTUAL FUND platform. Some of the unique features of the platform are mentioned below:

Easy execution

* Search any fund and analyze historical performance

* Click on Buy for lump sum or one time investment, and SIP (systematic investment plan) if you intend to invest small amounts of money at fixed interval automatically

Currently, mutual fund purchases are enabled for only those clients who have ZERODHA demat account.

Mutual funds in Demat

* Among the first few platforms in India to offer convenience of holding mutual funds in your demat account along with all your stock holdings. A single portfolio view for all your investments

Zero fees

Mutual fund investments similar to investing in stocks at ZERODHA will be absolutely brokerage free.

Net Asset Value (NAV) tracking conditional orders

For the first time in India you can now set conditional orders which track the NAV price. Whenever your preset NAV trigger price is reached, an order with value to buy or redeem mutual fund units is placed.  

Link to ZERODHA MF: https://mf.zerodha.com/

Fashion Designer Narendra Kumar designs outfits for Kangana, Kim & Miss Malini at the LIVA studio

Mumbai, 20th April, 2016: Renowned fashion designer Narendra Kumar Ahmed paid a visit to LIVA fashion studio along with Miss Malini, renowned fashion blogger for designing her wardrobe, a special summer makeover. He was in his designer attire, had a keen look at Liva Spring Summer Collection and shared his creative thoughts.

Nariwas thrilled and said, “I’ve been part of LIVA’s journey since its inception. LIVA is all about ease, breathability, naturalness, comfort & all of this is coming together in a fluid form. Liva fabric is versatile in many ways. I particularly like Liva blends with cotton, linen, silk and many more that enhances fabric appeal.

The colors are deep and vibrant. Drapes & flares are important aspects of Indian fashion & LIVA fabric fits the bill perfectly. LIVA is really a Fashion Fabric”.

During the visit, Nari took up a challenge of designing outfits for Kangana Ranaut, Kim Kardashian & Miss Malini where he sketched outfits based on Kangana’s edgy style, Kim’s glamorous picks & Miss Malini’s feminine appeal. He is going to design these ensembles using LIVA fabrics and we are waiting to see that.

LIVA’s Spring Summer inspirations impressed the designer to an extent where he stated his excitement about using LIVA fabrics in his upcoming clothing line.

He spilled the beans about current fashion trends, “Summer‘16 wardrobe essentials are lace, knitwear, boho, athleisure and soft-utility style. Biggest trend alert is Indigo! Khaki is still trending. Classic black & whites are always in fashion. Light pastels suit the season too. You can never go wrong with prints like floral abstract and Aztec. Color block too can be a safe option. You’ll be amazed to see how LIVA fabrics satisfy all your fashion & comfort needs for this season.” He added.

Chennai, 19th April 2016: Phoenix MarketCity will be hosting, Chrome.O.Soul, a unique band that believes in creating a sound of soulful music by blending each note to the pleasure of the listener.

Sharanya is from a Jazz, Pop-Funk background who has sung for Grammy winning composer Ricky Kej and many celebrated music directors such as Ilayaraja, Vijay Antony etc. The other members in the line-up are Godfray Immanuel, a seasoned guitarist, Reshwin Nishith who is one of the most sought after bassist in the country, Rahul Muralidhar, a drummer par excellence and Jerard Felix, who churns symphony magic with the Keyboard.

The quintet has been received with rave reviews and has swept away accolades at several national competitions including the Hornbill International Rock contest in 2014. Effortlessly blending musical technicality with tunes that are unbelievably unforgettable, the band has a fresh and unique sound that is one of a kind. Influenced by Funk-Pop and Neo-Soul, the band has a playlist meant to set your feet tapping and your hands clapping, this Saturday night!

Programme Details:

Date : 23rd April, Saturday

Time : 6:30 P.M Onwards

Venue : The Courtyard

Address : Phoenix MarketCity,

No. 142, Velachery Main Road, Velachery, Chennai - 600 042.

ALL ARE WELCOME!!

Chennai, 19th April, 2016: Phoenix MarketCity Chennai, known to encourage art and music will be hosting popular band “Funk it”.

The band has sought inspiration from the music legends such as ABBA, Michael Jackson, Pink Floyd, Deep Purple, Scorpions, Rolling Stones and many more. With a unique mix of pop, from funk to progressive rock, be part of a thrilling evening of live music this Friday!

Programme Details:

Date : 22nd April, Friday

Time : 7:00 P.M onwards

Venue : The Courtyard

Address : Phoenix Marketcity, No. 142, Velachery Main Road Velachery, Chennai - 600 042.

Hyderabad designer Architha Narayanam, showcases her exquisite collection - ‘Songstress of Love’ at the IFFD India Runway Week!

Showstopper Shriya Sharan enthrals the audience

Hyderabad, April 19th, 2016: Hyderabad's celebrated designer Architha Narayanam, known for her designs reflecting the rich Indian tradition, showcased her exquisite collection - ‘SONGSTRESS OF LOVE’ at the IFFD India Runway Week, held at Delhi. The stunning Shriya Sharan enthralled the audiences as the showstopper for the designer. The collection had overwhelming response from the fashionistas.

‘SONGSTRESS OF LOVE’ is a symbol of fidelity as it eternally pairs with the buds of love. The collection is all about the dainty collaboration of textures into beautiful motifs with Indian essence and the color pallet with a well-balanced contrasts and pastels. The designs are derived from the enchanted forest where the mystery and nature are sublimely together.

The young designer Architha Narayanam has made a mark in the fashion industry by her ability to envision the look of the clients for their most important day in their life - 'Wedding.' Her exclusive creativity made a mark in the industry of Bridal Wear. Having designed for brides all across the world, her speciality lies in delivering even the heaviest intricate work dress within 24 hours. She has travelled across various parts of the world customizing & designing for Indian Weddings, especially in USA where many Indian families have invited her to customize designer ensembles for Weddings & parties.

Architha has designed for many beach weddings, exotic location weddings and many more as Destination Wedding is the "Buzz" word among NRIs. She was the exclusive costume partner for the recent IIFA Utsavam. She has designed and styled many actresses like Shriya Saran, Rakul Preet, Shradda Das, Adah Sharma, Pranitha Subhash, Meenakshi Dixit and many more for the Indian film industry for their movies and exclusive events like IIFA, GIMA, SIMA and many more.

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Chennai, April 20, 2016: To address the looming water scarcity and water pollution crisis, The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), today announced signing of an MoU with WAPCOS (APSU under the aegis of Union Ministry of Water Resource, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Government of India). The partnership was announced at the India Water Forum, which was organised by TERI and the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Government of India with the theme of ‘Water for Sustainability: Towards Development and Prosperity’.

The new partnership will address the challenges of climate change and water scarcity through interventions like enhancing water use efficiency, water conservation, recycle and reuse, water demand management through a participatory mechanism for a period of three years.

Key messages:

- Better the monsoon, higher the sensex - water security can double the GDP

- Water is key input cost for manufacturing sector; better management can reduce inflation

- Water use efficiency in agriculture sector can bring about a second green revolution

India is facing multiple challenges in water sector as many states are facing frequent droughts and groundwater in several regions stands overexploited. Water is a finite resource, and its availability will soon be a significant challenge amongst all users and sectors due to continually rising and competing demand, inefficient use, pollution, cropping pattern, cross subsidies and potential risks due to climate change. The continuously declining per capita water availability in India (from about 5,177 cubic metres (m3 ) in 1951 to 1,545 m3 in 2011) has put the country into a ‘water stressed’ category and is close to being categorized as ‘water scarce’, said TERI.

The forum also witnessed participation from Sushri Uma Bharti, Union Minister for Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Government of India, as the chief guest. During the inaugural address, she said, “This conference can guide us in solving many of the water related challenges that India is facing now.  She further added that rejuvenating Ganga will become a model for our other rivers. “We should look at interlinking of rivers. It will be link only surplus and monsoon flows through new rivers. This will be done in a people and environment friendly manner. TERI can play a crucial role in this as well as providing solutions for conserving groundwater.”

TERI mentioned that a combination of interventions at various levels needs to be undertaken with a participatory approach for sustainable water management. There exists various innovative ways to conserve water such as use of drip & sprinkler systems in irrigation, use of water efficient fixtures & waterless urinals in households, artificial recharge of groundwater, recycle and reuse of waste water for non-potable purposes such as gardening, horticulture, use of real-time sensor based information tools & techniques for effective decision making etc. Besides these, policy interventions like incentive & disincentive mechanisms, participatory programs are vital to the success of water management.

Dr. S K Sarkar, Director, Water Division, TERI said, “Studies show that by 2030, the world’s demand of fresh water uses will be over 40% of existing reliable supplies. The highest water use is in agriculture, where efficiency is very low, and the demand side needs to be managed. IWF will aim at and discussing and indicating solutions to these and more.”

Over the years, TERI has been working with multiple stakeholders at various levels to identify interventions for policy reforms as well as sustainable and efficient water management solutions. Working along with several water intensive sectors such as power plants, heavy engineering, pharmaceuticals, beverages among others, TERI’s work has focused on enhancing their water use efficiency and design technical, financial & institutional strategies for water supply & demand management. TERI also assists local communities in interventions on drinking water and sanitation as well as participatory watershed management and groundwater conservation.

Now Book The Nearest Cab in One Tap - Even Without Internet or GPS

New Delhi, April 20, 2016: ixigo, India’s leading travel search app has announced the launch of “1-Tap Cab Booking” on the ixigo cabs app - an innovative feature that allows booking the nearest available cab in one tap of a button on the user’s home screen. Currently available for Android, 1-Tap Cab Booking will work even in places without a stable internet connection, such as airports, railway stations, bus stations and even while the user is en-route to his destination.

Commenting on the launch, Rajnish Kumar, ixigo CTO & Co-Founder said - “Opening multiple cab apps to compare ETAs & pricing, and then booking a cab consumes time, specially when you are at a place with weak Internet & GPS signals. On average it takes a minimum of 20 seconds to book a cab on any of the existing cab apps.  With 1-Tab Cab Bookings, we allow users to book their nearest cab in just 3 seconds by tapping and holding a button on their home screen. The best part is that this feature works even without internet and GPS. No more stress when you land at the airport or as your train is arriving at your station. Just 1-Tap and you are done!”

ixigo uses a combination of intelligence about the user’s location through existing PNR confirmations on a user’s phone and SMSes for when the internet connection doesn’t work to seamlessly book a cab for the user. ixigo cabs app also intelligently prompts the users prior to their journey to the station or airport and also when they have just landed or are about to reach their destination.

Since its launch, ixigo cabs has become the largest meta-aggregator of cabs, autos and ground transportation services, allowing users to search & book from multiple app-based cab providers such as Ola, TaxiForSure, EasyCabs, Jugnoo etc. directly from within its own app. By introducing 1-Tap Booking, ixigo has made it super-convenient to book the nearest taxi in less than 5 seconds with a super-intuitive button that always stays on the home screen of the user’s phone ! To know more about it, read here: www.ixigo.com/1-tap-booking