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Jagran Lakecity University Organises Global Educational Leaders Flagship Program ‘Empower’ in Bhopal

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Jagran Lakecity University is hosting and facilitating the second residential week of the tenth Cohort of IC3 Institute’s Empower Program at their campus in Bhopal from 18th to 22nd December 2023.

Mr. Abhishek Mohan Gupta, Pro-Chancellor, JLU along with the speakers and Participants before the commencement of the second Residential week

This week-long training and immersion programme is designed to feature engaging panel discussions, workshops and insightful sessions conducted by expert faculty from Jagran Lakecity University and industry practitioners and leaders.

Empower, is an invitation-only week-long program hosted by the Jagran Lakecity University Bhopal in collaboration with IC3 Institute, for school leaders and counsellors to learn more about new careers, opportunities and their associated challenges, share best practices, and network with peers and thought leaders at the forefront of this evolving career trends.

Welcoming a large cohort of these education leaders, from India, Maldives, Nepal, Malaysia and some other countries, Pro-Chancellor of Jagran Lakecity University, Mr. Abhishek Mohan Gupta, said. “Jagran Lakecity University is thrilled to welcome such an amazing group of educational leaders and counsellors. Our expectation is that this group will acquire new skills, contacts, and a community of peers to help them lead innovation on their school campuses and being compasses to their students. We look forward to supporting the group going forward.”

Jagran Lakecity University has long recognised the critical role that educational leaders and counsellors play in the growth, support and mobility of students both within and outside India and is committed to investing in their continuous long-term professional development.

The weeklong training program will have top-notch academics and industry leaders, counsellors addressing the participants across diverse topics and themes in journalism, design, architecture, films & animation, management, law, advertising, behavioural change, experiential communication & marketing, presentation skills, technology, liberal arts and
hospitality.

Rujuta Diwekar, Rameshwaram Cafe the Brand of Bangalore and Internet Sensation Raj Shamani Set the PROFICORN Day 1 Stage on Fire

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PROFICORN December 2023 began on an energetic note at Sheraton Grand, Bangalore. As 1200+ business owners rushed into the massive Sheraton auditorium the energy inside was pulsating.

PROFICORN December 2023 began on an energetic note at Sheraton Grand, Bangalore

The day began with an absolutely amazing learning session by Raj Shamani, entrepreneur, Founder of House of X and one of India’s most popular Podcasters, whose session on Branding was a Masterclass of its own. He shared 7 powerful principles of branding and opened the session to thunderous applause!

Following him, was celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar who took us back to a time when she started her own unique brand. At the fireside chat with host of the event Rajiv Talreja, he asked her about building a brand back in the 90s, how did she have the conviction. To which Rujuta replied, “I always had conviction in my value addition.

This session was followed by lunch and tea breaks after which was the time for the third icons of the day – Raghavendra Rao & Divya Raghavendra Rao, the power couple behind Bangalore’s favourite f&b brand- Rameshwaram Cafe!

Speaking about their ethos, Raghavendra mentioned, “Our Rameshwaram Cafe is our temple, our customers are God and what we prepare and serve to you, is Prasadam!

After these inspiring sessions, was the time to celebrate the true heroes of the economy!

The Business Success Awards, a clean and credible awards ceremony was held that felicitated the staggering successes and tremendous business achievements of 43 MSME business owners from the community!

They expressed their incredulity and absolute surprise through emotions flowing from their passionate speeches after winning their awards!

Finally a foot-thumping DJ night encouraged everyone to let their hair down and dance to the rhythm of the beating heart of the heroes of the economy, the MSME business owners who Quantum Leap strives to celebrate and support!

PROFICORN Day 2 promises to be back with more inspiring business icons, stories and celebration!

Kalpataru Group company secures Rs 525-Cr to complete 10 Mumbai towers 

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A Kalpataru group company has raised ₹525 crore debt facilities from PAG, a global alternative investment firm, for a term of 3.5 years to complete the construction of its 10 residential towers in the Mumbai suburb, said people aware of the development. 

Asia Pragati Strategic Investment Fund, managed by PAG, extended the debt facilities in two tranches through non-convertible debentures (NCD). The funding was secured at an internal rate of return (IRR) of 18.75%.

PAG extended debt facilities to Alder Residency, a wholly owned subsidiary of Abhiruchi Orchards, which is itself a wholly owned company of Kalpataru

In November, the Asia Pragati Strategic Investment Fund invested ₹475 crore in secured unlisted bonds and an additional ₹49 crore in secured listed bonds. Both sets of bonds are set to mature on April 30, 2027. 

The funds raised from these bonds will be utilized to retire high-cost debt and progress with the development of the residential project Kalpataru Vivant, consisting of ten towers in the Mumbai suburbs. The estimated cost of the project is ₹750-800 crore, according to one of the sources.

In October, the board of Alder Residency approved a resolution to raise ₹620 crore through Non-Convertible Debentures (NCD), as per the information provided. 

Parag Munot, the promoter, has provided a personal guarantee, and Abhiruchi Orchards has furnished a corporate guarantee to PAG in connection with the funds raised by Alder Residency. Additionally, the fund holds a primary and exclusive charge on the registered mortgage and development rights of the property.

According to a statement from India Ratings, as of June 2023, Alder Residency had utilized approximately 24% of the total development cost, which includes 10% of the overall construction cost for the project. The management reported to the rating company that all necessary approvals for the eight towers and the third floor of the remaining two towers were obtained by the end of September 2023.

TVS, Hyundai, MG, VW Recognised for Industry Best Practices by World Auto Forum | 9th IVASS powered by Top Leaders at WAF

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The 9th edition of the one and only IVASS – India Vehicle After Sales Summit was held recently at New Delhi. Organised by the World Auto Forum (WAF) each year, it brings together the top leaders of the After Sales Service community of the country under one roof. The theme this year was “Customers, Profitability & Growth – Back to Basics Backed by New Thinking and Faster Execution”.

One of the Longest Running Vehicle After Sales Programs on the Planet – 9th IVASS by WAF

Anuj Guglani, CEO, WAF said, The vehicle sales have been booming, compensating for the Covid Lull. Crowded vehicle showrooms subsequently lead to flooded workshops! This is the time to balance Customers, Profitability and Growth inline with the theme of the IVASS.

Mr Guglani added, It’s also the time to recognise Innovation and Best practices in the Industry. A time to show our gratitude to the Industry seniors who have served the industry, selflessly and diligently!

The 9th IVASS program was spread across 3 Power Panel Discussions and 5 Keynote Sessions of Top Industry leaders. The program also saw two very interesting ceremonies of WAF Industry Best Practice & WAF Global Hall of Fame.

WAF Industry Best Practice Ceremony

At a glittering ceremony during 9th IVASS by WAF, 4 Auto Makers and 1 Aftermarket Body were felicitated for their innovations and pioneering initiatives and declared as WAF Industry Best Practice for the entire ecosystem to get inspired by and follow. In no specific order, they are-

MG Motor India – For being adjudged CSI no. 1 consecutively three times, amongst all car makers.

A car brand just a little over 4 years old in the market. Establishing customers’ confidence and winning trust while maintaining the highest standards of customer service. Hence being Numero Uno in CSI for 3 years in a row, cannot just be a coincidence!

Volkswagen India – Exceptional and Innovative Customer Service & Evacuation during Chennai & AP Floods

VW India’s remarkable integrated and comprehensive strategy involving exceptional work, innovative methods, social media outreach, Free RSA for supporting their customers during the recent Chennai & AP Floods.

TVS Motor Co – For Innovative & Impactful Digital Tools and Apps for Dealers and Customers

TVS Motor Co was recognized for its innovation in developing digital tools and applications that make a significant impact on both dealers and customers, enhancing overall engagement and efficiency.

ASPA – World Class Training & Skilling of Automotive Aftermarket Workforce

ASPA (Automotive Service Providers Association) secured recognition for its commitment to providing world-class training and skilling programs, contributing to the development of a highly proficient automotive aftermarket workforce.

Hyundai Motor India ( HMIL) – Innovative Extended Warranty & RSA Packages and Proactive Customer Remote Troubleshooting

HMIL stood out for its cutting edge innovations in offering a unique bundled package of Extended Warranty & Roadside Assistance. This year they even pioneered proactive customer remote troubleshooting where their contact centre now reaches out to the customers in case the former remotely detects a fault in the latter’s car. This is done via OBD II Digital Trouble Codes. With these two innovations this year, the company has rewritten the rules of customer satisfaction and service excellence and thereby earned the laurel of WAF Industry Best Practice.

WAF Global Hall of Fame

Three leaders of the Automotive and Mobility Industry got inducted to WAF Global Hall of Fame. In no specific order, they are –

1. Raman Sharma, Former HR Head – Honda Car India and Former CEO ASDC – Automotive Skills Development Council.

Mr Sharma has spent decades in employee welfare, training, skilling and development of the automotive Industry workforce – Manufacturing Units, Warehouse and Retail Network.

2. Anil Chhikara, Former Deputy Commissioner, Transport- Govt of NCT of Delhi.

Mr Chhikara has worked at Auto OEMs as well as Govt Transport Departments. Last several years, he has championed the cause of Modernisation of Vehicle Fitness Testing centres and transformed driver licensing, driver training and their welfare. He has worked extensively on Road and traffic safety initiatives at Delhi.

3. Pratap Singh Raghuvanshi, Vertical Head – Voice of Customer Group, National Service, Hyundai Motor India

Mr Raghuvanshi has dedicated quarter of a century of his life to serving the customers of Hyundai Motor India. His contribution to customer satisfaction, customer retention, handling field teams and network have been immense and impactful.

The first IVASS power panel discussion’s theme was 2023 Best Practices & Innovations in Customer Experience, Satisfaction & Retention. It was powered by 9 Top Industry Leaders As follows –

S Muralidharan – Chairman Mobility Aftermarket – Session Chair

Pankaj Narula – Former ED – Maruti Suzuki India

Charu Kaushal – CEO , Allianz Partners India

Dr. Dinesh Bhasin – Former After Sales Service Head, Tata Motors PVBU

Garima Misra – MD, Group Landmark

Ramesh Rajagopalan – Head – Customer Services & Network – Volvo Eicher CV

Anuj Tyagi – National Head, After Sales – Ford India

Jayant Rawal – Zonal manager West & Central, Skoda Auto VW India

Ramakrishna Reddy – CEO & Founder – Spoors

The clear writing on the wall was that “Tech shall continue to power the customer experiences, more and more. It’s not just fancy cars and EVs that are connected. For instance each and every truck or bus manufactured by Volvo Eicher now is a ‘Connected Vehicle’ by default as a factory fit!

At the same time, losing the human touch and overdependence on IVRs is a sure shot recipe to lose customers. The ability to access customer feedback via all channels integrated into a central hub to sense the customer pulse is now hygiene.

In his keynote address at the 9th IVASS, Mr. Santosh Chitapure, Sales Manager at OES India – Henkel Adhesives Technologies, highlighted the expansive role that Henkel plays in the Indian market. He emphasised that within the automotive service industry, Henkel is a trusted provider of solutions for mechanical repairs, windscreen repairs, body repairs, and body protection.

Addressing the post-COVID landscape, Mr. Sharad Malhotra, President of Automotive Refinishes and Wood at Nippon Paint India, highlighted the evolving dynamics of the vendor-customer relationship, traditionally centred around price, quality and delivery. There’s an imperative need to transform ‘Supplier-Customer Engagements’ into ‘Partners in Progress’ amidst the unpredictable and rapidly evolving tech ecosystem.

Detailed Speaker by Speaker Notes can be found at WAF Think Tank

The IVASS Power Panel 2 delved into the Best Practices & Innovations in Workshop Productivity & Profitability and was powered by the following speakers:

Vitaly Chebotarenko, Country Manager – Vehicle Repair & Maintenance – Henkel, India,

Harsh Vashist, MD Satyam Group

Vikrantt Mohan, National President – AIAWA- All India Automotive Workshops Association

Dimple Mehta, Customer Care Domestic & International – Tata Motors PV

Naveen Gupta, Founder & CEO – Intellinet Systems

Anuj Guglani – CEO – WAF Group – Session Chair

It was interesting to note that despite the theme of the discussion being Productivity and Profitability, most speakers spoke about Training, skilling and workforce development! Most workshops are overflooded with vehicles due to the stellar sales in the last few business quarters. Optimised workshop efficiency, fast turnaround time, skilled workforce and fast network expansion were hailed as key focus areas!

Then came the 9th IVASS Power Panel 3, titled EV After Sales Service & Customer Support – Lets Build Together! It featured prominent speakers at the forefront of EV innovation and transformation like :

S Punnaivanam, CXO – Quality & After Sales – Greaves Electric Mobility

Arindam Lahiri, CEO – Automotive Skill Development Corporation ASDC

Rama Shankar Pandey, CEO – Tata Green Batteries

Jatin Tiwari, Head Field Service Vertical, Hyundai Motor India

Micheal Hajj, Global Head of Application Engineering, Henkel Adhesives Technologies

Amit Asija, National BD Manager – India & Sri Lanka – KECO Body Repair Products

Anuj Guglani – CEO – WAF Group – Session Chair

Diverse consumer behaviour & RSA Requirements of 2W, 3W & PV EV Customers were brought to light. How they are different amongst themselves and how they differ from ICE Customers, was discussed. The favourite and most frequently used adjective for the EV Ecosystem during the entire discussion was “Evolving”.

Evolving Battery and safety standards, skilling of workforce, customer awareness, charging network, solutions to range anxiety, workshop preparation for EV and ICE vehicles were a few amongst several things discussed.

During his keynote address, Naveen Gupta, Founder & CEO of Intellinet Systems, addressed how their cloud-enabled solutions ensure accurate spare part identification, fix system feedback loops enabling better quality products, smoothen warranty claims process, and enhance the utilization of manuals through digitization and AI integration.

The program concluded with the Valedictory Ceremony where all WAF partners and associates were felicitated. In his Vote of Thanks, Mr Anuj Guglani, Founder and CEO WAF Group, acknowledged the role of all partners and stake-holders in making the 9th IVASS a success, with the presentation of Certificates of Appreciation.

About WAF

World Auto Forum (WAF) is a Global Auto & Mobility Think Tank Platform – a place as relevant for Chairpersons and Top CXOs as it is for interns and trainees. Established in 2009, it now has community members across 125 Countries. WAF Auto News is the World’s No 1 in World Auto News & Auto Think Tank as per Google search results.

WAF TV is its online broadcasting arm where one can watch hundreds of videos on the Auto & Mobility Industry. WAF also organises popular programs like WAFit!, IVASS , WAF Awards, and CXO Roundtable Discussions where top leaders of the industry take their Dialogues to Action!

Follow this story at #ivass23 and #waftv

Social Entrepreneur Raghunathan Narayanan Elected Ashoka Senior Fellow 2023 for Innovative Agricultural Solutions

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Raghunathan Narayanan, Co-founder of The Catalyst Group, has been elected Ashoka Senior Fellow 2023 for his transformative approach to empowering smallholder farmers in India, with a primary focus on 3Fold model and the Platform for Inclusive Entrepreneurship (PIE).

Raghunathan Narayanan on the field at Pudukottai, with members of the Farmer Interest Group

According to the 10th Agriculture Census in 2015-16, there are 126 million small and marginal farmers in India, constituting 86.2% of the total farmer population. Despite their significant numerical presence, these farmers, who own less than two hectares of land, collectively possess only 47.3% of the total crop area. Various factors significantly constrain smallholder farmers livelihoods, with limited access to capacities and services, particularly market, capital and inputs in a bundled way standing out as a crucial impediment to economic prosperity. Climatic uncertainties and market fluctuations further heighten farmers vulnerability, perpetuating the association between poverty and smallholder farming.

“Traditionally, smallholder farmers were considered as beneficiaries of the public system or savers of the world because when India went through a famine, they worked to produce food for the whole country. However, they remained there without much progress. The way we see it, while they grow food, they are also entrepreneurs,” said Raghunathan.

Recognising the immense potential of agriculture for job creation in India, Raghunathan and his team at Vrutti Livelihood Impact Partners (Catalyst Group) built an entrepreneurial approach to smallholder farming based on learnings from an impact assessment of agricultural interventions in Madhya Pradeshs tribal areas. By 2009, the first Agriculture Enterprise Facilitation Centre was established, conducting a pilot with 250 farmers.

This led to self-organisation and collaboration among farmers, such as producing bio-pesticides and engaging in initial processing like millet processing for higher incomes. The success prompted scaling to other agroecological zones, with the schemes of five state governments and philanthropic donors aiding in expansion to larger farmer organisations, refining selection criteria, and expanding services. This evolved into the 3Fold idea and model, integrating farm advisory, input services, financing, and marketing, with technology as an accelerator.

Raghunathan Narayanan, Co-founder of The Catalyst Group

“The 3Fold model is about building Wealth, Resilience and Responsibility together, given the vulnerabilities of smallholder farming and the way rural families engage in livelihoods. Therefore, instead of limiting focus solely on income, we emphasise wealth building by considering the interconnected elements of soil, biodiversity, water, and income as crucial components of a farmers wealth. Empowering the Farmer Producers Organisation is a critical component of the model as it ensures collective agency to deal with markets and value chains, while ensuring service sustainability for the farmers. Through this systemic approach, we recognise that improving one farmers situation requires working within the local landscape ecosystem,”Raghunathan said.

By 2014-2015, Raghunathans organisation, in collaboration with Social Venture Partners, took to testing and expanding the 3Fold model. It is currently active in eight clusters covering over 35,000 farmers across five states in India with the support of many donors and business partnerships.

In 2017, Raghunathan received critical insight, input and support from the Societal Platform (currently called Societal Thinking) on the platform approach to solving complex and dynamic societal problems of this type at an exponential scale, given the size of the problem. This required a big shift in mindset and approach to solving at the population scale while Vruttti and its partners continued to solve the problem with depth of impact at a small scale.

This led to the establishment of the Platform for Inclusive Entrepreneurship (PIE), co-created with Platform Commons and Industree with the continued support of Societal Thinking. The platform is built on societal platform principles aimed at building the agency of the farmers and their institutions in solving their farm livelihood challenges. PIE brings together capacities, choices of services (market, capital, inputs) and access to services for farmers while ensuring that they have the power in the platform through farmer-centric governance mechanisms.

“It’s been a well-thought-out journey of co-creation between smallholder farmers, FPOs, Vrutti and Platform Commons. Raghu has been instrumental in guiding how to make technology work for the grassroots,” said Prashant Mehra, Co-founder of Platform Commons.

To date, PIE has directly benefited 22,500 small producers, witnessing an increase in net income due to a reduction in costs, increase in productivity and quality, reduced cost of capital, additional incomes through diversified livelihoods, and better prices due to direct market opportunities and value addition. The model aims to extend its impact to millions of small-producer farmers throughout India via collaborations with the government, civil society, market players (such as Big Basket), donors, and academia.

“Our ultimate goal is to empower farm families by empowering a bundled set of services that reduce costs, enhance productivity, improve quality, move up the value chain, and enable direct customer engagement, thus facilitating their journey combining traditional farming wisdom with modern, sustainable, and market-oriented agricultural enterprises,” concluded Raghunathan.

Qlik acquires AI data management firm Mozaic

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Qlik, the Swedish data analytics firm, revealed its acquisition of Moziac Data, an AI-driven data management provider, for an undisclosed amount. 

The primary goal of this acquisition is to expedite the deployment and utilization of data within enterprises, particularly on popular cloud platforms such as Amazon Redshift, Databricks, Google BigQuery, Microsoft Fabric, and Snowflake.

Mozaic founder Sharad Kumar is set to join Qlik as the Regional Head of Data Integration and Quality.

“The acquisition of Mozaic and Sharad’s expertise is a pivotal step in reshaping the data landscape and is a significant contribution to our ongoing work for 2024, said Drew Clarke, General Manager, Data Business Unit at Qlik. “Customers recognize the importance of treating data as a product—a strategy that aligns with the need for a SaaS-based Data Product Catalog.” 

Mozaic develops data products with a decentralized architecture accessible through a data product marketplace tailored for specific business needs. 

The Harvard Business Review suggests that treating data as a product can expedite the implementation of new use cases by 90% and reduce the total cost of ownership by 30%.

“Joining Qlik is a significant milestone for Mozaic Data. We share a vision to improve data consumption by maximizing value from data investments. This is an opportunity to advance the efficiency and innovation in data management driven by AI, integrating seamlessly with Qlik’s upcoming projects,” said Sharad Kumar of Mozaic.

Founded in 1993, Qlik currently has over 40,000 enterprise customers in over 100 countries.

The Love Co announces strategic retail partnership with WHSmith: Expanding presence in high-traffic locations

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The Love Co. proudly announces its entry into the retail space through a strategic partnership with WHSmith, a renowned international entity that has a broad presence in numerous locations across India and beyond. This collaboration is a major step for the leading skincare brand, as it expands its reach and showcases its best-selling product line in the WHSmith stores.

WHSmith’s extensive network includes offline stores in all major national and international locations, positioning the brand’s products in high-traffic locations. This dynamic collaboration will help both brands enhance their visibility among their target audience.

Hemang Jain, CEO of The Love Co, expressed his enthusiasm about this partnership by saying, “ We are thrilled to join forces with WHSmith and bring our brand’s innovative products to high-traffic locations. This collaboration will expand our reach and align with our commitment to fostering creativity and connection. We look forward to a successful journey with WHSmith, marking the beginning of a dynamic chapter for The Love Co. and enhancing our engagement with consumers in diverse settings.”

Looking ahead,  WHSmith and The Love Co. envision a future where both companies expand their retail presence and products across various locations. The company is actively exploring opportunities to introduce new product lines and exclusive offerings, further solidifying its position in the retail market.

About Love Co.:  

Love Co is a leading self-care brand that is known for offering its unique skincare products to its customers. The brand offers a special range of bath, body, and skincare essentials through which people can experience pampering with nature’s touch and modern luxury.

About WHSmith:

WHSmith has established itself as a leader in the retail industry. It is a renowned international brand with a strong presence at major locations worldwide. It is known for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.                                                                                                                                                                

Japan startup Preferred Networks designs own AI chips to beat bottleneck 

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Japanese startup Preferred Networks is increasing its investment in custom artificial intelligence chips to secure crucial hardware access amid the global investment boom driven by advancements in generative AI. 

Backed by investors such as automaker Toyota and robot maker Fanuc, the company initiated the development of its first-generation AI chip in 2016 for its supercomputers.

“We knew we needed to optimise energy consumption and minimise procurement risk, which could make it difficult to sustain our business,” Preferred Networks co-founder and CEO Toru Nishikawa said in an interview. 

With the growing enthusiasm for AI technology, companies globally are rushing to obtain AI chips. Giants like Amazon and Microsoft are among those developing chips in-house. 

Preferred Networks, in response to this trend, has finalized the design of its second-generation AI chip. TSMC is handling the manufacturing process, and this chip is set to empower the startup’s upcoming supercomputer.

Preferred Networks has fine-tuned its chips for AI applications, achieving lower power consumption and enhanced computing capabilities. This optimization is achieved, in part, by shifting functions typically executed by hardware to software. 

The startup aims to roll out its cutting-edge technology for crafting extensive language models and facilitating drug discovery in the coming year. By 2027, it plans to provide customers with substantial computing power.

Celebrate 12 Stays of Christmas with Some of Airbnb’s Most Unique Homes in India

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The holiday season is here, and there’s magic in the air, especially with Christmas around the corner! It’s that time of the year when the travel bug bites the hardest. Whether it’s the twinkling lights, the festive carols, or the aroma of holiday treats, the excitement of Christmas makes exploring new destinations and stays irresistible. This is a time when families, friends and loved ones come together, often seeking new experiences and creating lasting memories in picturesque destinations.

12 unique Airbnb homes across India are now available to book at a special price of INR 2512* each this Christmas eve (24 December)

Embracing this festival spirit, Airbnb Hosts are decking the halls with a special Christmas offer that travellers across India won’t want to miss. This Christmas eve (24 December), 12 of the country’s most unique Airbnb homes are available at a special price of INR 2512* each.

From the bustling streets of Jaipur to the serene backwaters of Kerala, these unique stays promise an unparalleled holiday experience. Whether it’s waking up to the mountains of Manali or enjoying a beachside Christmas in Goa, these cater to every travellers dream, making it an unforgettable Christmas celebration this year.

“At Airbnb, we believe in making travel experiences unique and accessible,” said Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager, India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan.“With this special Christmas offer from our wonderful Host community, we want to spread joy and cheer to travellers across India, allowing them to experience the magic of the holiday season in some of the most unique stays and destinations in the country.”

Each of the 12 homes below are available to book for only INR 2512* starting today for an unforgettable Christmas stay on Christmas eve (24 December, 2023, one night only) – fastest fingers first!

To check out the entire list of stays, please visit www.airbnb.com/12staysofchristmas.

Hazel – Romantic Glasshouse Suite@The Pause Project, Goa

Escape to Hazel at The Pause Project, an enchanting space nestled on the edge of the lush forests of Siolim, North Goa. Unwind amidst natures embrace, where every moment invites you to pause, reflect, and indulge in peaceful reflection. This holiday season, experience the Goan Christmas like a local as the charming holiday spirit adorns the streets of Siolim as you step right out of Hazel.

Hosts Pavika & Siddhartha said, “Our space awaits an enchanting Christmas experience that encapsulates the vibrant festive spirit of Goa. Our first Christmas treat for our guests is a “Christmas in Goa” itinerary aimed at giving our guests an immersive Goan Christmas experience. Hazels location on the winding lush green street of Vaddy, Siolim at just a short 2-minute ride from the iconic 400 year old St. Anthony Church Siolim, with houses adorned with handcrafted stars, intricate nativity scenes, and the warm glow of fairy lights, create a magical tapestry across Siolims charming by lanes, that our guests can experience firsthand on their evening stroll down the road. On Christmas eve, as the clock strikes midnight, St. Anthony Church comes alive with melodious Konkani carols, a hallmark of Goan Christmas. And as the midnight mass concludes, we recommend them to linger a little longer in the captivating ambiance of St. Anthony Church, exchange greetings with fellow revellers and maybe even meet travellers from all over the globe promising a night filled with the warmth of Goan hospitality, the taste of Christmas delights, and the joy of making memories that will linger long after the season has passed.

With our personalized Christmas to-do guide for our guests, we recommend they spend their evenings filled with the irresistible aroma of Goan delicacies – be it the sweet bebinca or the spicy rum cake as they navigate through traditional bakeries and 100-year-old cafes serving Christmas goodies, explore eateries hosting festive brunches, and discover hidden Christmas markets. Our Christmas in Goa itinerary includes offbeat gems like Confiteria 31 De Janeiro Bakery in Panjim, one of the oldest bakeries in Goa, and also friends of The Pause Project,where The Pause Project guests can savour complimentary Goan Christmas treats like Dodol, Guava Cheese, Christmas cookies and so much more! Its an invitation to savor every nuance of Goas unique Yuletide celebration. Amidst the natural charm of our glasshouse spaces that invites the essence of the Goan forest, The Pause Project undergoes a festive makeover to capture the spirit of the holidays. Our dedicated staff orchestrates this transformation, infusing every corner with the magic of the holiday season. Along with a Christmas tree standing tall at the entrance, adorned with the colors of celebration, fairy lights dance gracefully in the lobby, kitchen, and hangout corners, casting a warm and inviting glow that transcends the ordinary. The collective effort aims to create a cozy festive ambiance that resonates throughout the space. Adding a touch of whimsy, our all-female Santa team joyfully welcomes guests on Christmas morning. Stockings filled with delightful treats and their signature smiles await, embodying the heartwarming hospitality of Goan traditions. The goal is to ensure that every nook and cranny exudes the essence of the holiday season, creating a homely space where the spirit of Christmas comes alive. We want our guests to take away the true spirit of Christmas along with the local flavour of Goa – the warmth of hospitality, the joy of shared moments, and the magic of being in a surreal home away from home. In addition to the usual beach visits and party hotspots, we also love to help our guests explore the offbeat side of Goa, steeped in Goas multicultural traditions and intriguing history. Hazel at The Pause Project offers a chance for our guests to experience a blend of local festivities and personalized experiences, hopefully leaving them with cherished memories of a Goan Christmas and the spirit of the season in their hearts.”

Casa Lontano – Farmstay with Pool & Lawn,New Delhi

Escape to a tranquil haven at this charming farmstay, nestled away from the citys hustle and bustle. This serene retreat is a symphony of natures sounds, offering the perfect countryside getaway. The property features a swimming pool, two large bedrooms, a cosy living room with an open kitchen, making the space feel like a home away from home. This farmstay is a delightful blend of rustic charm and modern convenience, promising a peaceful and rejuvenating experience.

On making sure that the guests at the property have a wonderful experience, Host Tushar said, “We plan to have a Christmas cake for our guests, delivered as a surprise with a welcome note written by me. We also decorate the space with fairy lights and candles and we hope for guests to take away that warm fuzzy feeling and feel right at home by staying true to what Casa Lontano stands for, which is them feeling they took back an ideal and idyllic home away from experience, which has them coming back again.”

Sea facing Luxury A Frame with Private Plunge pool, Varkala, Kerala

Discover an unparalleled retreat at this luxurious A-Frame cabin, perched on the edge of a cliff with the Arabian Sea as its majestic backdrop. The highlight is the private plunge pool, elegantly overlooking the vast expanse of the sea, providing an intimate space for relaxation or romantic moments. Inside, the cabins A-Frame design accentuates a cosy yet luxurious atmosphere, perfectly complementing the awe-inspiring outside views. Ideal for those seeking a serene escape, this property promises an unforgettable experience where the sky meets the sea.

Winter Garden, Jaipur, Rajasthan

The Winter Garden Studio is an artistic and elegant property with mindful corners that are designed with plants, sculptures, and antiques. If you’re looking for a calm and serene house, this is the Airbnb for you! Should you need any more persuasion to book this space, don’t forget the private terrace hidden with a canopy of greenery that offers just the right amount of solitude for you to catch up on a great read and enjoy the sun on a winter afternoon.

La Belle Vie Naukuchiatal, Bhimtal, Nainital

Nestled in the Lake District and just a few minutes from the gorgeous Naukuchiatal Lake, this Airbnb is the ideal holiday getaway. Inspired by nature, the stay is made with stone and reclaimed wood. The living space gives a very warm feeling while being well-equipped with modern amenities. The beautiful markets, restaurants and other recreational activities like boating, paragliding, hiking, nature walks are available within a walking distance to please the wanderer within.

Whyt-Romantic Glasshouse, Goa

Discover the true dolce far niente at Whyt, The Pause Project. A dreamy escape in North Goa where mornings unfold with coffee, books, and the mesmerising views of a lush, seemingly infinite forest. Imagine waking up to the melodies of chirping birds, sunlight filtering through mangroves, and monkeys enjoying their sunbath as you are sipping on your morning cuppa in your bed. Art from local Goan artists, shelves adorned with books and plants, a cosy reading swing and your private kitchenette evoke a comforting sense of home.

The Granary: wooden cabin on stilts,Coorg, Karnataka

Standing tall on stilts, the Granary is a warm blend of luxury and homeliness. Overlooking the elephant corridor, this Airbnb home is a great place to soak in the true essence of Coorg. The rustic and peaceful charm comes from its unique history, that of it being a 100-year-old granary. It is an intimate space with a beautiful view of the lush coffee estates visible from both the bedroom and balcony, designed to make you feel one with nature.

Casa Serenidade@Duplex Villa,Goa

Experience tranquillity at Casa de Serenidade, a duplex condo in Siolim, North Goa. Revel in stunning 180-degree hill views from the spacious terrace, perfect for sunrise coffee or sunset cocktails. Relax in the condos pool or explore the Goa beaches, that’s just a short drive away. Indulge in nearby chic restaurants for a gourmet experience.

Heritage Home in Kasauli with Four Bedrooms, Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh

Discover the charm of a century-old heritage home in the peaceful cantonment of Kasauli. This quaint retreat features four cosy bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, along with a living room, a reading room, and spacious dining areas. Enjoy the fully equipped kitchen and expansive open spaces. Ideal for birdwatching enthusiasts, this tranquil getaway offers a perfect blend of historical allure and serene relaxation.

The Hakushu Project : A Luxury A-Frame Cabin, Sainj, Himachal Pradesh

Discover Hakushu, a secluded A-frame mountain cottage nestled in an apple orchard in the serene Sainj valley, near Shimla. This minimalist Japanese-inspired retreat offers a tranquil escape with its stunning valley views, private jacuzzi, and cosy fireplace, perfect for couples or small families seeking a peaceful nature getaway.

Luxurious Wooden Attic Suite,Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Experience luxury in the lap of nature at Tra – A Boutique Stay, nestled amidst apple orchards with stunning Himalayan views, near Manali. Hosts Kanupriya & Prashant offer a cosy, beautifully decorated cottage with sumptuous in-house dining, blending serene mountain tranquillity with convenient access to the city.

The Artist’s Studio,Jaipur

This cosy one-bedroom Airbnb in central Jaipur blends sculptures, paintings, antiques, and quirky furniture for a unique aesthetic. It features a spacious ensuite layout with a private terrace, ideal for unwinding under the evening sky. A perfect choice for solo travellers, small families, or friends, this artistic haven promises a memorable stay.

*Plus applicable taxes and fees.

About Airbnb

Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to over 4 million Hosts who have welcomed over 1.5 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, Hosts offer unique stays and experiences that make it possible for guests to connect with communities in a more authentic way.

Vikram Mehra of Saregama India Ltd. Newest to Join the Alibaug Community

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Vikram Mehra, the Managing Director of Saregama India Ltd., has joined the ranks of prominent figures investing in the tranquil coastal enclave of Awas, Alibaug. His recent property acquisition marks the beginning of his journey to create a dream retreat in collaboration with Aditya Kilachands Avas Bespoke, an integral extension of Avas Living. Situated in the idyllic town of Awas, Alibaug, Avas Living stands as a pinnacle of ultra-luxury, a gated wellness community.

A Glimpse into the Luxurious Bedroom of an Avas Wellness Villa

Aditya Kilachand highlights, “The seamless approach of Avas Bespoke allows homeowners to be involved in every step of the process while minimising the stress and time investment associated with building a custom home. Our commitment to holistic wellness is reflected in all our villas, which typically start at 25 crores. The design philosophy incorporates abundant greenery, sunlight in every room, spacious indoor and outdoor areas, and timeless modern finishes, following a biophilic approach.”

The serene ambiance of Alibaug, coupled with its convenient proximity to the city, strategically positions it as the ideal locale for many to choose as their second home destination. Poised to emerge as a top-tier destination in India, the region is slated for significant development, including new state-of-the-art hospitals, international schools, the Trans Harbour Link, and the introduction of various dining and entertainment establishments in the next 2-3 years. Anticipating further enhancements, such as additional Ro-Pax vessels and water taxi services, the area is likely to witness a surge in property prices. Notably, this wave of development has attracted eminent homeowners like Virat Kohli, Deepika Padukone, Radhakishan Damani, Rohit Sharma, Shah Rukh Khan, Sachin Tendulkar, Amitabh Chaudhry, and other prominent personalities.