The evening was filled with esteemed dignitaries such as CP of Mumbai Mr. Vivek Phansalkar, Gautam Singhania, Zaheer Khan, Ashish and Samita Chowdhry, Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh, Sophie Choudry, Madhur Bhandarkar, Anusha Dandekar, Mandira Bedi, Kapil Dev and many more. Here’s a glimpse into their grand celebration!

At a grand event held in Mumbai, hosted by Maniesh Paul, Danube Properties unveiled its new tagline, “Danube Hai Na,” symbolizing the brand’s unwavering commitment to offering comprehensive solutions to homeowners.

With a legacy spanning over 30 years, Danube Properties has emerged as a trailblazer in Dubai’s real estate market. Known for its innovative 1% payment plan, fully furnished apartments, and projects featuring 40+ world-class amenities, the brand consistently sets new benchmarks in affordable luxury living. A key highlight of Danube’s commitment to excellence is its track record of delivering projects ahead of schedule, as demonstrated by the recent completion of GEMZ by Danube, handed over five months earlier than promised. Danube also continues to lead with innovation, with its latest luxury project, Bayz102, featuring a flying taxi station, showcasing its vision for futuristic living.

Adding to the appeal of investing in Danube properties is Dubai’s tax-free environment, along with the opportunity for property buyers to secure a golden visa for their families—making it an unparalleled destination for global investors.

Speaking at the event, Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, expressed his excitement saying,”Kartik Aaryan epitomizes determination and excellence, qualities that resonate deeply with Danube Properties. His widespread appeal and success story make him an ideal representative for our brand. Together, we aim to inspire dreams of homeownership while upholding our legacy of trust and value.”

Kartik Aaryan, sharing his enthusiasm, said, “I am delighted to be associated with Danube Properties, a brand that redefines affordable luxury and innovation. Their reputation for delivering world-class homes aligns with my belief in authenticity and excellence. I’m thrilled to embark on this journey with them.”

About Danube Properties

Danube Properties has launched 34 projects, successfully delivered 16, and has 18 more under development. Known for its pioneering 1% payment plan, fully furnished apartments, over 40 world-class amenities, and consistently ahead-of-schedule project deliveries, Danube continues to set benchmarks in affordable luxury real estate.

About Instas.ai

Instas.ai specializes in creating AI agents that cater to a wide range of industries, including retail, banking, and e-commerce. By automating routine tasks and providing personalized interactions, Instas.ai enables businesses to focus on strategic growth while ensuring superior customer experiences.

AI-Powered Solutions

1. Smart Customer Service

Instas.ai agents utilize advanced natural language processing (NLP) to efficiently manage high volumes of customer queries. These agents provide quick and accurate responses, handle complex issues, and deliver a seamless customer experience across multiple channels.

2. Personalized Cross-Selling

Harnessing machine learning, Instas.ai agents analyze customer behavior and preferences to recommend products tailored to individual needs. This approach not only drives sales but also enhances customer loyalty by providing value-driven suggestions.

3. Effortless Integration

Instas.ai’s solutions integrate seamlessly with existing CRM systems and communication platforms, ensuring businesses can adopt AI technologies without any operational disruptions or technical challenges.

4. Actionable Insights

Data gathered from customer interactions is transformed into actionable insights, helping businesses refine their strategies, optimize processes, and make informed decisions to improve overall efficiency.

The Path Ahead

Instas.ai is committed to:

• Advancing AI Technology: Continuously enhancing its solutions to stay ahead of industry trends.
• Expanding Market Reach: Strengthening its presence in domestic and international markets.
• Tailored Solutions: Collaborating with businesses to develop industry-specific applications of its AI agents.

Redefining Customer Engagement

Instas.ai’s AI-powered agents are designed to help businesses optimize customer service processes, increase conversion rates, and elevate overall customer satisfaction. With the demand for digital transformation on the rise, Instas.ai remains a trusted partner in delivering innovative solutions that drive meaningful results.

For more information about Instas.ai’s offerings, visit www.instas.ai.

Discover how Instas.ai’s AI-powered solutions can transform your customer engagement strategy. Visit www.instas.ai to learn more.

Superstar Ajay Devgn and Mr Asif Bhamla, National President of Bhamla Foundation, will jointly unveil this global campaign in the auspicious presence of the Honourable Governor and other luminaries from all walks of life, marking a momentous step towards a greener future.

As India celebrates its 75th year of independence, the collaboration between Ajay Devgn and Bhamla Foundation, a leading environmental NGO, represents a pivotal moment in the country’s journey towards eco-consciousness. This initiative underscores the critical need for responsible actions to combat pressing environmental challenges.

The unveiling of this campaign promises to serve as a beacon of hope, paving the way for a sustainable India and a brighter, more eco-friendly world.

Changes to Income Tax Exemptions in the New Tax Regime

Reports suggest that the government is considering revising income tax exemptions, but the benefits will be exclusive to the New Tax Regime. Two significant changes are anticipated: an increase in the standard deduction limit and an expansion of the 20% tax slab, targeting relief for middle- and high-income taxpayers.

1. Increase in Standard Deduction Limit

The current standard deduction limit in the New Tax Regime stands at ₹75,000. Sources indicate that this could be raised to ₹1 lakh in Budget 2025. Last year, the deduction was increased from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000. If implemented, taxpayers could reduce their taxable income by up to ₹1 lakh, directly lowering their tax burden. This change would benefit both salaried employees and pensioners, leaving more money in their hands.

2. Expansion of the 20% Tax Slab

The government is also expected to widen the scope of the 20% tax slab under the New Tax Regime. Currently, taxpayers earning between ₹12 lakh and ₹15 lakh are taxed at 20%. However, the government may extend this bracket to incomes up to ₹20 lakh. This revision would significantly reduce the tax liability for individuals earning between ₹15 lakh and ₹20 lakh, providing much-needed relief to middle- and high-income groups.

Final Decision Rests with PMO

While these potential changes are promising, the final decision will be taken by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). According to sources, the Finance Ministry has submitted a report suggesting that making the New Tax Regime more attractive is essential for phasing out the old tax system. The report emphasizes the need to enhance existing exemptions within the New Tax Regime, which currently offers tax-free income up to ₹7 lakh and limited deductions.

Fiscal Deficit Remains a Key Challenge

The Union Budget will be presented on February 1, marking Finance Minister Sitharaman’s eighth consecutive budget and the Modi government’s second full budget in its third term. Economists have highlighted the importance of controlling the fiscal deficit, which is projected to be 4.9% for the current financial year. The government aims to reduce this figure to below 4.5% by 2026, balancing fiscal discipline with taxpayer relief.

Stay tuned for Budget 2025, as these potential changes could mark a significant step toward a more taxpayer-friendly economy!

On their way to becoming adults – realizing their true potential – young students undertake a daunting journey. The road ahead isn’t marked well – there’s no streetlamps, no signals, no respite. The road is often either lonely or ruthless. Each step is a measured risk. Each challenge rewrites the goal. Each reward defines the purpose.

This journey never ends.

I remember standing at the starting line. I don’t remember a map, or a compass, or a guide.

I imagine I would have felt at ease if I’d had either one. A quiet reassurance – no matter what, I’ll make it.

That’s your mentor. Your compass, your map, your guide. Someone to build you up – to remind you that you’ll be lost before you find your own way. Someone who wishes to see you succeed in ways they couldn’t.

Mentorship is not just about academic resilience – or even career milestones. Really, mentorship transcends these momentary triumphs; it’s about building a well-rounded leader capable of taking on the journey (of life).

1. Instilling Confidence – Someone Who’s Always in Your Corner

When it comes to taking the journey, we’re daunted by what could be. The loneliness of The Great Journey – a vast road untraveled, unmarked, undone. There’s often the uncertainty of whether we’re going the right way.

How do you decide?

You don’t. You put your step forward anyway.

A mentor’s primary role is to stand in your corner. You make your own way, of course, and no one can walk the road instead – but you have a constant in this effort. To talk through your doubts, your fears, your life. To mitigate the pressures – academia or industry.

It allows you to face your problems head-on. You’re no longer looking to bypass it.

It gives you the courage to take the leap. To step outside of your comfort zone, knowing there’s someone who’s always in your corner.

2. Learning from Life

As people, we learn the best from other people – from their success, their failures, their journey.

Often, the role of a mentor is to offer mentees perspective. To borrow lessons from their own life. This perspective is holistic – invaluable and human. It’s a simulation of all the ‘what ifs’ with a seasoned answer.

In terms of knowledge, they offer a nexus; all that has come before you, and what is to come. It allows you to put yourself in context – to find your footing. It allows you to learn, to be curious, to innovate.

With the right mentor, these insights are tailor-made. You’re learning from life.

3. Best of You

You don’t know what you’re capable of. Chances are, if you do, you’ve grossly underestimated yourself. We often undersell ourselves – to avoid failures, to confront disappointment. But a mentor learns your traits – and they recognize the best parts. They see, in you, their greatest achievement yet.

None of us are built equal – and the right mentor will use this to highlight your value.

They’ll bring out the best of you.

4. The Ripple

True success is measured by the lives you touch. The lives you impact. It’s the difference you make.

Mentors aren’t simply a guide – they nurture a compassionate leader. They reiterate kindness – they underline empathy. They create a ripple through their communities. They offer a deep understanding and a meaningful connection.

This sense of belonging will carry you – and you will carry it. It’ll create a network of support for future students/professionals. It’ll allow us to grow and lift.

Your mentor is a mirror of what you will be. The ripple.

5. A Friend, an Alumni, an Mentor

A mentor’s role is undeniable. But a mentor doesn’t wear one face – doesn’t play one character. A mentor is a reflection of the student’s profile – how they learn best, how they understand the world, how they communicate.

A student’s personality decides what mentorship they need – whether a friend to hold their hand, an alumni to reassure them, or an industry veteran with wise quips. Truly, you need someone who’s been in your shoes – someone who’s already where you dream of being.

Svaraj Anand, COO, Neo Developers said “Welcoming DesqWorx at NEO Square is indeed a pleasure for us. Such partnerships mark the understanding that we understand the demand of the current market when it comes to preparing a commercial space for growth. Containing all the necessary and required modern business facilities and an excellent design, Neo square acts as a commercially perfect business hub. The project has the right environment and some of the best amenities available to enhance the features and functions of the businesses that decide to set up shop there. NEO Square is a combination of retail and entertainment that not only accommodates the needs of business but also improves the work-life balance of the professionals”.

With the growth of the expansion of the NEO Developers commercial portfolio as well as the advancement of DesqWorx operations the flexible workspace market is a facet that is likely to grow significantly. They continue to expand their reach in the competitive development space by creating premier spaces targeted towards the hands-on demands of the current digital era.

“Having 4 existing centers at Delhi and Gurgaon, DesqWorx has been serving as a modern and flexible office building for entrepreneurs, project teams, startups and even already established businesses in this fast moving co-working and serviced office domain. Now, NEO Square will further increase the capability of DesqWorx to meet the ever increasing flex space trend in the given location. We have always aimed at a greater goal of furnishing our clients with an environment that paves way to proper networking, growth or creativity other than just providing a working space. This is getting one step closer to our goal of getting a solid foothold in India’s working culture and as our collaboration with NEO and the establishment of NEO Square is getting us there” said Sheeraz Ralli, Co-Founder, DesqWorx.

NEO Square is a workplace development that provides high-end working office, commercial units and entertainment centers. Due to its unique positioning and superior construction, it is the best option for companies looking for new offices in Gurgaon. That mission of DesqWorx of offering superior, high-end and versatile workspaces resonates closely with that of NEO Developers since they strive to emphasize on quality and innovation provided by the latter. This partnership seeks to revolutionize the co-working and serviced office spaces industry with the assistance DesqWorx has with ready to occupy offices and NEO Squares modern facilities. The coalition intends to support a diverse range of clients from start ups to freelancers to big corporations allowing an ecosystem of collaboration and expansion to thrive.

About Neo Developers: One of the leading real estate companies in Gurugram that redefine real estate with a new perspective. We create awe-inspiring masterpieces and unique spaces to comfort residencies and businesses across the country.

Neo is dedicated to bringing out the best in every space through our modern methods. We’re founded on the principles of commitment, innovation and novelty. Our diversified portfolio in prime locations like Delhi and Gurgaon meets the demand of booming cities and enhances the city’s reputation. Our young team works together to create fresh concepts that meet today’s market demands and catering market needs.

An exceptional lineup of luminaries who graced the launch event: Ms. Alokananda Roy, Dance Educationist and Choreographer, served as the Chief Guest and highlighted the importance of art in capturing the complexities of urban life; Mr. Harsho Mohan Chattoraj, Renowned Graphic Novelist, shared his insights on the evolving role of graphic novels in contemporary storytelling; Mr. Ramanjit Kaur, International award-winning Theatre Director and Artpreneur moderated the event through a thought-provoking discussion on the role of art in shaping public consciousness. The book launch was also attended by: Mr. Namit Bajoria, MD Kutchina (Husband of Author); Mr. Pranay Poddar, Honorary Consul (Republic of Kenya); Mr. Arunabha Karmakar, Painter; Mr. Siddhartha Sen, Author; Ms. Vidhi Beri, Health and Wellness Coach & many other eminent personalities.

Published by Kalamos and exclusively distributed by Westland Books, Urban Chronicles 4 consists of three poignant short stories in a captivating graphic novel format. The stories explore the complexities of urban life, delving deep into the human experience with a fresh perspective. Each narrative reflects modern societal themes, touching on identity, relationships, and the challenges of living in bustling urban environments.

The event kicked off with the unveiling of the book. The launch was followed by an engaging panel discussion that explored the intersection of graphic novels, literature, and urban culture. Nita Bajoria, the Kolkata-based author and graphic novelist, shared the inspiration and creative process behind Urban Chronicles 4. The panellists discussed the role of visual art in contemporary literature and how the graphic novel format is evolving as a powerful tool to reflect the world we live in.

About Urban Chronicles 4:

Urban Chronicles 4 is the fourth volume in Nita Bajoria’s celebrated series, which has garnered attention for its emotionally resonant and socially relevant narratives. The book offers readers a unique lens through which to understand the ever-changing dynamics of urban spaces, examining the relationships between individuals and their environments in deeply personal ways.

About Nita Bajoria:

Nita Bajoria, an emerging author based in Kolkata, has a remarkable writing journey. Her debut novel, The Leap, was released in 2008, and she has since published several acclaimed works, including Casket and Besky, Myra & her Secret Library, and earlier volumes of Urban Chronicles. Nita’s short stories and travelogues have been featured in publications like The Times of India and Himalayan Magazine. With a keen passion for storytelling, Nita continues exploring the human experience through her writing, aiming to touch readers’ hearts worldwide.

Urban Chronicles 4 is now available in bookstores and online in India and is exclusively distributed by Westland Books.

Realme 14 Pro Series: Price and Availability in India

The Realme 14 Pro series starts at ₹24,999. With applicable bank discounts, the price reduces to ₹22,999. The first sale is set to begin on January 23 at 12 noon. Below are the pricing details for each model:

Realme 14 Pro Series Prices and Offers

Realme 14 Pro:

• 8GB + 128GB: ₹24,999 (Effective price: ₹22,999 after ₹2,000 bank offer)
• 8GB + 256GB: ₹26,999 (Effective price: ₹24,999 after ₹2,000 bank offer)

Realme 14 Pro+:

• 8GB + 128GB: ₹29,999 (Up to ₹4,000 bank discount available)
• 8GB + 256GB: ₹31,999 (Up to ₹4,000 bank discount available)
• 12GB + 256GB: ₹30,999 (Up to ₹4,000 bank discount available)

Realme is also offering pre-booking deals across Flipkart, realme.in, and retail stores for a limited time.

Experience brilliance like never before! The #realme14ProSeries5G is #SoClearSoPowerful.

Starting at ₹22,999.
Pre-Book now:https://t.co/bxxGhQz8w3https://t.co/2VPsHlw0z2 pic.twitter.com/TsNnACI10O

— realme (@realmeIndia) January 16, 2025

Key Features of Realme 14 Pro Series

Realme 14 Pro 5G:

• Camera: 50MP main camera, 13MP ultrawide lens, 2MP macro sensor.
• Selfie Camera: 16MP front camera.
• Display: 6.74-inch AMOLED curved Vision display with 1.5K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and 4,500 nits peak brightness.
• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset.
• Battery: 6,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging.
• Protection: IP66, IP68, and IP69 water and dust resistance ratings.
• Eye Protection: Advanced eye protection features.

Realme 14 Pro+ 5G:

• Camera: 50MP periscope telephoto lens, 8MP ultrawide lens.
• Selfie Camera: 32MP front camera.
• Display: 6.83-inch AMOLED quad-curved display with 120Hz refresh rate and Corning Gorilla Glass protection.
• Processor: Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset.
• Battery: 6,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging.
• Protection: IP66, IP68, and IP69 water and dust resistance ratings.
• Eye Protection: Advanced eye protection feature.

Additional Features

Both models support 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6E, USB-C, and feature an in-display fingerprint sensor. The Pro+ variant also includes NFC for enhanced convenience.

This premium series aims to deliver powerful performance, advanced photography, and a top-notch user experience at competitive prices.

Marking the return of director Aashiq Abu, Rifle Club comes after his previous films, Neelavelicham and Naradhan, which underperformed at the box office. Released in theaters on December 19, the movie received widespread acclaim and grossed an impressive ₹27 crore worldwide within just 20 days.

Rifle Club also stands out as the Malayalam acting debut of Bollywood filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, who portrays a gang leader in the film. Adding to the excitement, popular rapper Hanumankind makes his acting debut, with his song “Killer on the Loose” becoming a viral hit. The film’s soundtrack, composed by Rex Vijayan, has been well-received by audiences.

Critics have praised Rifle Club for its stunning visuals and engaging narrative. ETimes rated it 3.5 out of 5, highlighting the breathtaking cinematography that captures the grandeur of the Western Ghats and the vibrant scenes at the titular club. Edited masterfully by V Sajan, particularly during the hunting sequences, the film offers a vivid and memorable viewing experience.

Ee clubil, thokkine kaalum unnam nokkinu
Watch Rifle Club, now on Netflix!#RifleClubOnNetflix pic.twitter.com/66ADkpdtMa

— Netflix India South (@Netflix_INSouth) January 16, 2025

Veteran actors like Suresh Krishna and Ponnamma Babu bring charm and humor to the screen, while Hanumankind delivers an electrifying performance with his Kill Bill-style energy. However, Anurag Kashyap’s portrayal of the ruthless Dayanand received mixed reviews, as some critics felt his character lacked the necessary intensity.

Don’t miss this thrilling action-packed drama now streaming on Netflix!