daily startup magazine

Total Post: 785

Actis Technologies Introduces Devialet Phantom Ultimate Hotel Mode to the Indian Hospitality Market

Actis Technologies Introduces Devialet Phantom Ultimate Hotel Mode to the Indian Hospitality Market

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 10: In luxury hospitality, the details do a lot of quiet work. The way a room opens. The way the lighting settles. The texture of the linen. The view from the balcony. And increasingly, the way the room sounds.

Actis Technologies has announced the availability of Devialet Phantom Ultimate Hotel Mode in India, bringing Devialet’s hospitality-ready audio solution to luxury hotels, premium resorts, private villas, and design-led suites across the region.

For hotel owners and general managers, this solves a familiar problem. In-room audio is often treated as a small detail until it becomes a weak one. Underwhelming speakers, distorted sound, awkward controls or devices with someone else’s pairing history can take the shine off an otherwise premium stay.

Devialet Phantom Ultimate Hotel Mode is built to remove that friction.

Now available in India through Actis Technologies, the solution brings Devialet’s signature high-fidelity sound and sculptural design to guest rooms, suites, villas and lounges. It also gives hotel teams the control they need to manage sound simply across the property.

The range is available in two models:

1. Devialet Phantom Ultimate Hotel Mode 98 dB

Available in Light Pearl, Deep Forest and Opera de Paris

2. Devialet Phantom Ultimate Hotel Mode 108 dB

Available in Light Pearl, Deep Forest and Opera de Paris

Hotel Mode is designed for the real world of hospitality. Guests benefit from seamless Bluetooth connectivity, while properties retain control through room-specific naming, maximum volume limits, and automatic history reset.

Guests enjoy a truly immersive listening experience, and the hotel keeps the peace.

“Hotels today are competing on experience, not just rooms,” said Abhimanyu Gupta, Director, Actis Technologies. “The opportunity for premium properties is to make in-room sound part of that experience. Devialet Phantom Ultimate Hotel Mode gives owners and general managers a way to add a memorable layer of luxury without adding complexity for their teams. It is a product guests can enjoy immediately and a detail that helps the property feel more complete.”

For architects and interior designers working on premium hotel projects, Devialet Phantom Ultimate offers uncompromising acoustic performance without the visual bulk of conventional speaker systems. Its iconic form and proprietary technologies let sound fully immerse within the room.

“The availability of the Devialet Phantom Ultimate Hotel Mode in India, alongside Actis Technologies, marks a key milestone for Devialet,” said Gautier Mejane, Head of B2B in APAC at Devialet. “As India’s luxury hospitality sector experiences remarkable growth with increasingly ambitious projects, we are providing properties with a tailored solution. The Hotel Mode pairs Devialet’s iconic sound signature and unique aesthetics with seamless operational control, perfectly designed for the unique demands of the hotel industry.”

Actis Technologies will offer product guidance, consultation and demonstration support for hotel owners, general managers, architects, interior designers and project consultants evaluating Devialet for new hotel developments, luxury refurbishments, villas and premium suites.

To book a short call or private demonstration, contact Palak Hotha on +91-9167386570

About Actis Technologies

Headquartered in Mumbai, we have offices in 13 cities and a sales and support network across 60 cities in India. We also have an international presence in the UAE, via our Dubai office.

Established in 1971, Actis Technologies is one of Asia’s fastest-growing AV and IT product distributors, helping global technology brands build stronger markets and reach more customers across India. Actis combines nationwide distribution with deep technical expertise, supporting partners through market development, reseller enablement, solution design, demonstrations, training, deployment guidance and after-sales support.

Its growing portfolio spans displays, interactive displays, projectors, networking, professional audio, collaboration and other business technologies from leading global brands. A pan-India network of resellers, offices, warehousing and support capabilities enables Actis to keep products accessible, projects moving and customers supported across key markets.

This distribution strength is backed by more than five decades of experience in designing and delivering audio-visual, collaboration, lighting management and environment control solutions. Headquartered in Mumbai, Actis has a presence across more than 60 Indian cities, with international operations in the UAE. Learn more at www.actis.co.in

About Devialet

At the forefront of acoustic engineering, Devialet is born from a conviction: that the transformative power of sound belongs to everyone. The House’s mission is to create deep, physical, and real connections through listening. Moments that are alive with sound.

Thriving on relentless innovation, Devialet engineers continually push the boundaries of acoustic excellence, fusing uncompromising sound quality with elegant, functional design. The company’s success is built on 250 registered patents and radical technologies that define Devialet products–from the Devialet Astra integrated amplifier and Devialet Phantom speakers to the Devialet Gemini II wireless earbuds, the Devialet Dione all-in-one soundbar, and the Devialet Mania smart portable speaker. To date, they have earned over 100 international awards.

Committed to making French excellence resonate around the world, Devialet relies on a robust strategy of industrial partnerships (with Safran, Ariane, Alpine, the BYD Group…), as well as cultural collaborations–notably with the Opera national de Paris–and artistic alliances. Through sound, Devialet brings its unique acoustic expertise to institutions, venues, and companies, helping to elevate artistic creation–and shape the sound of tomorrow. Learn more at www.devialet.com

Press Contact

Media Relations – Actis Technologies Pvt. Ltd

Email: contact@actis.co.in

Phone: +91-22-30808000

Website: https://actis.co.in/

Fern Holidays International Launches Signature Card for Exclusive Cruise Holidays

Fern Holidays International Launches Signature Card for Exclusive Cruise Holidays

New Delhi [India], August 10: Fern Holidays International has expanded its holiday offerings with the launch of its Signature Card for Cruise Holidays, opening up new opportunities for members to experience some of the world’s most exciting cruise destinations. Through the Signature Card, members can explore memorable cruise holidays with leading international cruise brands, including Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean.

Cruising has become an increasingly popular way to experience multiple destinations while enjoying the convenience of comfortable accommodation, onboard entertainment, dining and leisure activities. With its latest offering, Fern Holidays International aims to make cruise holidays an exciting addition to the travel experiences available to its members.

Cruise with Leading International Brands

The Signature Card brings together some of the biggest names in the global cruise industry. Members can explore cruise experiences associated with Carnival Cruise Line, known for its lively onboard atmosphere; MSC Cruises, offering a blend of European-inspired hospitality and international destinations; Norwegian Cruise Line, recognised for its flexible cruising experience; and Disney Cruise Line, which combines family entertainment with the magic of Disney.

Members can also discover the world of Royal Caribbean, known for innovative ships, entertainment, adventure activities and diverse itineraries.

Discover Southeast Asia by Sea

One of the most exciting possibilities for cruise travellers is exploring Southeast Asia. Singapore serves as a convenient starting point for several cruise itineraries, connecting travellers to destinations across Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and beyond.

3-to-4 Night Routes: The Weekend Getaways

Designed for first-time cruisers and travellers combining a cruise with a longer stay in Singapore, these short itineraries offer a compact introduction to cruising.

A popular route can include:

Singapore → Penang, Malaysia → Phuket, Thailand → Singapore

The itinerary combines beaches, local culture and city experiences while keeping the cruise short and convenient. Major cruise brands operating in the region include Royal Caribbean and Resorts World Cruises, subject to itinerary and sailing availability.

5-to-7 Night Routes: The Standard Explorer

For families and travellers looking for a more comprehensive getaway, 5-to-7-night cruises can provide a balance between relaxation and exploration.

A typical itinerary can include:

Singapore → Port Klang/Kuala Lumpur → Penang → Langkawi → Phuket → Singapore

Travellers can experience beaches, shopping, local attractions and cultural destinations across multiple ports. Cruise options in the region can include Royal Caribbean, Resorts World Cruises and other international cruise operators depending on sailing schedules.

9-to-14 Night Routes: The Grand Southeast Asia Tour

For travellers seeking a deeper exploration of the region, longer cruises can offer an immersive Southeast Asian journey. Potential itineraries may connect:

Singapore → Thailand → Vietnam → Bali/Indonesia or Cambodia → Singapore

These extended voyages are particularly suited to couples, mature travellers and those who want more time to explore different cultures and destinations. Depending on the sailing, travellers may find options from cruise brands such as Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and premium luxury operators.

A New Way to Experience Travel

With the introduction of the Fern Holidays International Signature Card for Cruise Holidays, members can look beyond traditional vacations and discover the unique appeal of travelling by sea. From short weekend getaways to extended Southeast Asian journeys, cruise holidays offer the opportunity to visit multiple destinations while enjoying the comforts and experiences available onboard.

The Signature Card adds another dimension to the Fern Holidays International travel portfolio, giving members more ways to plan memorable holidays with family, friends and loved ones.

Independence Day 2026: Urban Seniors Assert ‘Freedom after 65’

Independence Day 2026: Urban Seniors Assert ‘Freedom after 65’

On India’s 80th Independence Day, Samarth Life highlights how older adults are redefining independence, not by doing everything alone, but by having the right support to continue living life on their own terms.

NEW DELHI | August 12, 2026: When 72-year-old Mr. Sharma, a retired public sector engineer, wanted to visit friends in another city, he realised the biggest obstacle wasn’t his health, it was fear. Fear of arranging travel through apps, fear of scams, fear of a health emergency happening in a different city, and fear of causing added stress, for his daughter living in Canada.

Rather than depending on his family to manage life from thousands of kilometres away, he chose to put reliable local support in place. Today, he continues to live independently in his own home, travels with confidence, and knows that someone trustworthy is available whenever needed.

His story reflects a broader shift that Samarth Life has observed over nearly a decade of supporting older adults and their families across India.

As India celebrates its 80th Independence Day, Samarth believes it is time to broaden the meaning of freedom. For many older adults, freedom is no longer defined by retirement or financial independence alone. It is the confidence to continue making one’s own choices, pursuing one’s interests, remaining connected with friends and community, and living safely and independently in one’s own home.

A New Chapter of Independence

Traditionally, ageing in India has been associated with increasing dependence on children and family members. While family remains central to Indian life, changing demographics, smaller households and geographic mobility mean that many families now live apart.

Publicly available demographic studies, including the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI), indicate that nearly 27% of urban older adults live independently of their children, either alone, with their spouse, or in other living arrangements. As this trend continues, the question is no longer whether seniors can remain independent, but how they can do so with confidence and dignity.

“Over the last decade, we’ve seen something inspiring. Older adults don’t want to become dependent, they aspire to remain independent. They want to continue travelling, pursuing hobbies, meeting friends and living confidently in their own homes. What they need is dependable support behind the scenes so everyday responsibilities and unexpected situations don’t limit their freedom. This Independence Day, we celebrate that spirit of ‘Freedom After 65’, because growing older should never mean giving up the freedom to live life on your own terms”, says Asheesh Gupta, Founder & CEO, Samarth Life.

Drawing on its experience of supporting families across India since 2016, Samarth has observed that today’s seniors are not looking for someone to take over their lives. Instead, they seek dependable support that enables them to remain independent for longer.

What Independence After 65 Really Means

Based on years of working alongside older adults and their families, Samarth believes independence is built on four essential freedoms:

Freedom from Everyday Hassles

Managing paperwork, bills, repairs, appointments and household coordination can become increasingly demanding. Reliable local support allows seniors to focus on the activities that bring them joy.

Freedom from Health Anxiety

Preventive health coordination, organised medical records and preparedness for emergencies provide confidence to continue living independently.

Freedom from Social Isolation

An active social life, meaningful relationships and opportunities to engage with peers contribute significantly to emotional wellbeing and healthy ageing.

Freedom from Burdening Family

Many seniors value knowing they can manage day-to-day life without relying on their children for every practical need. At the same time, families gain reassurance that trusted support is available whenever required.

Supporting Independence, Not Replacing Families

Professional life management assistance is not a substitute for family, it is an extension of the family’s support system. By combining personalised care coordination, preventive health management, emergency preparedness and day-to-day assistance, organisations such as Samarth help older adults remain in control of their own lives while giving families peace of mind.

About Samarth Life

Founded in 2016, Samarth enables older adults to age with dignity and independence in their own homes. Recently highlighted in The Economic Times and Times of India as the benchmark for elder care in India, Samarth provides personalised care management, preventive healthcare coordination, emergency response, lifestyle assistance and community engagement. Samarth partners with thousands of families across India to help seniors lead safer, healthier and more fulfilling lives.

  • Music
  • Closed
  • 9 min read

From Award Winner to Prize-Giver: Victoria Isaac Closes Esperanza 2026 at Hindustan International School, Karapakkam

From Award Winner to Prize-Giver: Victoria Isaac Closes Esperanza 2026 at Hindustan International School, Karapakkam

Seven weeks after the Hindustan Group of Institutions gave her an award, one of its schools handed her the microphone, the stage and the prize table.

Chennai: A prize-giving is one of the oldest rituals in school life, and the shape of it almost never changes. A child walks up. An adult, usually a distinguished one, hands over the trophy, shakes the hand, and says something encouraging. The adult is the authority. The child is the recipient. Everybody knows their part.

At Buckingham Hall in Karapakkam on Saturday 8 August, the person handing over the trophies was nine years old.

Victoria Isaac, who performs as Victoriastic, was chief guest at the closing ceremony of Esperanza 2026, the inter-school culturals and sports festival hosted by Hindustan International School. The day had opened at nine in the morning with the Tamizh Thaai Vaazhthu and the school anthem, and ran through a full programme of cultural and sporting events involving teams from several schools across the city. By the valedictory session the winners had been decided. What remained was the address, the performance and the prizes, and all three belonged to the chief guest.

Seven weeks earlier

The booking has a short history worth setting out, because it is unusual.

On 23 June, at Hotel Hilton in Chennai, the Hindustan Group of Institutions held the Dr. K.C.G. Verghese Excellence Awards 2026 as part of its sixtieth-anniversary year. Among the honorees, alongside industrialists, academics and a judge of the Madras High Court, was Victoria Isaac, named Child Prodigy of the Year.

Seven weeks later the same group invited her back, not to be recognised, but to run the closing ceremony of its school’s biggest event of the year.

That is a different kind of endorsement from an award. An institution can give a citation to almost anyone on the strength of a file. Putting the same person in front of several hundred students and their teachers, and trusting her with the last hour of a day the school has spent months building, requires having watched her work and concluded she can carry a room.

The Chairman’s vision for the school

Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese is Chairman of the Hindustan Group of Institutions and Chancellor of Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science. Under his leadership the group secured university status for its engineering college, formed academic partnerships with institutions abroad, and now teaches more than twenty-three thousand students across engineering, aviation, management, law, health sciences and the liberal arts. Its guiding line, stamped on everything it does, is to make every man a success and no man a failure.

Speaking at the group’s Excellence Awards in June, he set out education as one of the most powerful instruments of transformation and nation-building, and described six decades of the group’s work as a record of nurturing talent and creating room for young people to find what they are capable of. His own working background spans close to three decades across education and aviation.

Esperanza is what that reads like when it is applied to schoolchildren rather than to a university prospectus. A school that measures its students only by examination results has a narrow definition of success and a large number of children who fall outside it. An inter-school festival widens the field. It creates categories in which a child who is not first in class can be first at something, and it does so in front of visiting schools rather than only their own. It costs the host school money, staff time and a full Saturday, which is the point: the commitment is what makes it more than a sentiment.

The choice of chief guest follows the same logic. Victoria’s record is not academic. It is made almost entirely of things she taught herself to do, which is precisely the kind of achievement a school built on that motto ought to be putting in front of its students.

The people who actually run it

Hosting an inter-school event is a logistics exercise disguised as a celebration. Visiting teams have to be received, registered, fed and kept to a timetable.

Judges must be briefed and results collated fast enough for the prizes to be ready when the valedictory begins. Parents arrive. Nothing is allowed to overrun.

That work fell to Principal Ms. Bharathi Lakshmi and her staff, supported by the school’s leadership including Executive Director Lt. Gen. Bobby Mathews (Retd.) and Dean of Academics Mr. Johnson Mathew, with Dr. Annie Jacob, Director of KCG College of Technology, among those present.

The measure of it is that visiting schools noticed the organisation rather than the gaps. Very little of that work is visible in a photograph, and all of it is the reason the day worked.

The last hour

Victoria’s slot ran in three parts: an address, a violin performance, and the prize distribution.

She spoke first, briefly, to a hall of students. Then she played, which is what the room had been waiting for since her name went on the invitation. The reaction was what it usually is when she performs for an audience of children: a hall that had been managing its attention for several hours stopped managing it.

Victoria Isaac is felicitated on stage at the closing ceremony of Esperanza 2026, Hindustan International School, Karapakkam.

Then she gave out the prizes.

That last part is worth pausing over, because it does something a school cannot buy. A trophy handed to a child by a dignitary confirms the existing order: adults decide, children receive. A trophy handed over by someone the same age says something else entirely. It says the person who has done remarkable things is not from a separate category of human being. She is from your category. She is standing where you are standing, holding out your medal.

Every winner at Esperanza 2026 walked back to their seat having shaken hands with what is possible before eighteen.

What another school would be booking

For schools weighing up a chief guest for their own annual day or festival, the Esperanza booking is instructive on two counts.

The first is that the Hindustan Group did not take a chance on an unknown. They had already assessed her, honoured her in June, and then chose to put her in front of their students in August. Repeat business from a serious institution is a better reference than any citation.

The second is what she is actually asked to do. Most chief guests deliver a speech and leave. Victoria delivers a speech, a performance and a prize distribution, and the performance is the part the students will describe at home that evening. A school gets an address, a concert and a ceremony from a single invitation.

She is nine, home-schooled, a student of the KM Music Conservatory in Chennai, and has spent the past year moving between award stages, care homes, corporate halls and now school festivals. The school festivals appear to be the ones she likes best. The audience is closest to her own age, and it is the only audience that reliably asks her questions afterwards.

Celebrate 25 Years of Magic with Harry Potter xMINISO Pop-up Store

Celebrate 25 Years of Magic with Harry Potter xMINISO Pop-up Store

New Delhi [India], August 8: Attention, witches, wizards, and Muggles! As the world celebrates 25 Years since Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone first brought the wizarding world to the big screen, MINISO invites fans to experience the Harry Potter x MINISO Pop-up Store at Vegas Mall, Delhi (31 July – 6 September), R City Mall, Mumbai (31 July – 30 August), and The Pavilion Mall, Pune (7 August – 6 September). This limited-time destination combines playful retail moments with an extensive range of officially licensed Harry Potter merchandise, offering fans a unique way to celebrate one of the world’s most beloved franchises.

Featuring enchanting decor, Hogwarts-inspired installations, themed photo opportunities, and interactive experiences, the pop-up brings the magic world of Harry Potter films to life. Visitors can explore over 250 officially licensed Harry Potter products spanning plush toys, apparel, lifestyle products, stationery, home decor, accessories, kitchenware, bags, collectibles, and more.

Inspired by the stories, characters, and iconic moments that have captivated generations, the collection blends nostalgia with everyday functionality, allowing fans to bring a piece of Harry Potter into their daily lives. Whether you’re a proud Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin, there’s something special waiting to be discovered.

Designed as more than just a retail destination, the Harry Potter x MINISO pop-up store brings shopping and storytelling together. Visitors can capture memorable moments at themed installations, take part in exciting activities, and explore an exclusive collection created for fans of all ages.

“Harry Potter has been a global cultural phenomenon for 25 years, and we’re delighted to bring fans a collection inspired by one of the world’s most beloved stories. Through this collaboration, we hope to create memorable experiences that bring fans closer to the characters, moments, and adventures they have cherished for generations,” said Charmaine Chan, Vice General Manager, MINISO India.

From cherished memories to new discoveries, the Harry Potter x MINISO pop-up store is a celebration of 25 years of unforgettable stories, iconic characters, and timeless adventures.

Locations & Dates:

  • Vegas Mall, Delhi: 1 August – 6 September 2026
  • R City Mall, Mumbai: 31 July – 30 August 2026
  • The Pavilion Mall, Pune: 7 August – 6 September 2026

About the Harry Potter franchise

From the moment eleven-year-old Harry Potter met Rubeus Hagrid, Keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, his adventures have left an indelible mark on popular culture. Today, over 25 years later, the Harry Potter phenomenon thrives as one of the most successful and best-loved entertainment properties in history.

J.K. Rowling’s best-selling Harry Potter novels have been brought to life in an ever-evolving, interconnected universe which is loved by millions of fans worldwide. Eight blockbuster Harry Potter films and three epic Fantastic Beasts films bring the spellbinding action to life on screen, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child mesmerises on stage, full-cast and single-voice audiobook productions bring the written words to life, and state-of-the-art video and mobile games from Portkey Games allow players to experience the wizarding world like never before. Fans can proudly showcase their passion through innovative consumer products, and thrill at spectacular location-based experiences – including themed lands at six Universal Destinations and Experiences theme parks around the world.

This expanding portfolio of Warner Bros. Discovery-owned Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts offerings includes ground-breaking touring experiences and events, each developed to celebrate special moments and locations that fans cherish, as well as Harry Potter Shops in King’s Cross, New York, Chicago, Akasaka, and Harajuku. Wizards, Witches and Muggles alike can also discover something new as they explore behind-the-scenes secrets at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter and Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo

– The Making of Harry Potter.

With a new HBO Original TV series based on the Harry Potter books on the way, this extended world continues to provide the community with fresh and exciting ways to interact. For its global fans, and for generations to come, it invites everyone in to find the magic for themselves.

For the latest Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts news and features, visit www.harrypotter.com.

All characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s26)

About Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products

Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBDGCP), part of Warner Bros. Discovery’s Revenue & Strategy division, extends the company’s powerful portfolio of entertainment brands and franchises into the lives of fans around the world. WBDGCP partners with best-in-class licensees globally on award-winning toy, fashion, home decor and publishing programs inspired by the biggest franchises from Warner Bros.’ film, television, animation, and games studios, HBO, Discovery, DC, Cartoon Network, HGTV, Eurosport, Adult Swim, and more. With innovative global licensing and merchandising programs, retail initiatives, and promotional partnerships, WBDGCP is one of the leading licensing and retail merchandising organizations in the world.

About MINISO

Founded in 2013, MINISO is a global lifestyle brand offering high-quality, fun, and affordable products across categories like home decor, accessories, toys, and beauty. With its design-driven approach and joyful brand philosophy, “Life is for Fun,” MINISO continues to spread happiness through its expanding network of stores worldwide.

Independence Day 2026: Urban Seniors Assert ‘Freedom after 65’

Independence Day 2026: Urban Seniors Assert ‘Freedom after 65’

On India’s 80th Independence Day, Samarth Life highlights how older adults are redefining independence, not by doing everything alone, but by having the right support to continue living life on their own terms.

NEW DELHI | August 12, 2026 – When 72-year-old Mr. Sharma, a retired public sector engineer, wanted to visit friends in another city, he realised the biggest obstacle wasn’t his health, it was fear. Fear of arranging travel through apps, fear of scams, fear of a health emergency happening in a different city, and fear of causing added stress, for his daughter living in Canada.

Rather than depending on his family to manage life from thousands of kilometres away, he chose to put reliable local support in place. Today, he continues to live independently in his own home, travels with confidence, and knows that someone trustworthy is available whenever needed.

His story reflects a broader shift that Samarth Life has observed over nearly a decade of supporting older adults and their families across India.

As India celebrates its 80th Independence Day, Samarth believes it is time to broaden the meaning of freedom. For many older adults, freedom is no longer defined by retirement or financial independence alone. It is the confidence to continue making one’s own choices, pursuing one’s interests, remaining connected with friends and community, and living safely and independently in one’s own home.

A New Chapter of Independence

Traditionally, ageing in India has been associated with increasing dependence on children and family members. While family remains central to Indian life, changing demographics, smaller households and geographic mobility mean that many families now live apart.

Publicly available demographic studies, including the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI), indicate that nearly 27% of urban older adults live independently of their children, either alone, with their spouse, or in other living arrangements. As this trend continues, the question is no longer whether seniors can remain independent, but how they can do so with confidence and dignity.

“Over the last decade, we’ve seen something inspiring. Older adults don’t want to become dependent, they aspire to remain independent. They want to continue travelling, pursuing hobbies, meeting friends and living confidently in their own homes. What they need is dependable support behind the scenes so everyday responsibilities and unexpected situations don’t limit their freedom. This Independence Day, we celebrate that spirit of ‘Freedom After 65’, because growing older should never mean giving up the freedom to live life on your own terms”, says Asheesh Gupta, Founder & CEO, Samarth Life

Drawing on its experience of supporting families across India since 2016, Samarth has observed that today’s seniors are not looking for someone to take over their lives. Instead, they seek dependable support that enables them to remain independent for longer.

What Independence After 65 Really Means

Based on years of working alongside older adults and their families, Samarth believes independence is built on four essential freedoms:

Freedom from Everyday Hassles

Managing paperwork, bills, repairs, appointments and household coordination can become increasingly demanding. Reliable local support allows seniors to focus on the activities that bring them joy.

Freedom from Health Anxiety

Preventive health coordination, organised medical records and preparedness for emergencies provide confidence to continue living independently.

Freedom from Social Isolation

An active social life, meaningful relationships and opportunities to engage with peers contribute significantly to emotional wellbeing and healthy ageing.

Freedom from Burdening Family

Many seniors value knowing they can manage day-to-day life without relying on their children for every practical need. At the same time, families gain reassurance that trusted support is available whenever required.

Supporting Independence, Not Replacing Families

Professional life management assistance is not a substitute for family, it is an extension of the family’s support system. By combining personalised care coordination, preventive health management, emergency preparedness and day-to-day assistance, organisations such as Samarth help older adults remain in control of their own lives while giving families peace of mind.

About Samarth Life

Founded in 2016, Samarth enables older adults to age with dignity and independence in their own homes. Through personalised care management, preventive healthcare coordination, emergency response, lifestyle assistance and community engagement, Samarth partners with families across India to help seniors lead safer, healthier and more fulfilling lives.

XM launches GOLD24-7, bringing weekend gold trading to its clients

XM launches GOLD24-7, bringing weekend gold trading to its clients

New Delhi, India, 6 August: XM has introduced GOLD24-7, a new Gold trading instrument that gives traders access to Gold markets seven days a week.

Unlike traditional Gold CFDs, which follow standard market hours, GOLD24-7 allows traders to continue trading Gold over the weekend.

“Markets don’t stop generating news simply because it’s the weekend,” said Stavri Morti, Co-CEO at XM. “Economic data, geopolitical developments and breaking news can all influence market sentiment over the weekend. We introduced GOLD24-7 to give our clients greater flexibility to respond to those developments as they happen, instead of waiting until Monday.”

The launch forms part of XM’s broader strategy to expand its product offering while continuing to evolve its trading experience in line with changing market conditions and client needs.

For over 15 years, XM has been a market leader in Gold trading. This position was further solidified earlier this year amid historic gold market volatility, as the broker provided traders with uninterrupted trading and exceptional execution conditions, including zero requotes and no rejections. GOLD24-7 builds on that approach by extending Gold trading beyond the traditional trading week.

GOLD24-7 is now available to all XM clients. Traders interested in accessing the new instrument can open an XM account in just minutes to begin trading Gold throughout the week.

#XMGOLD247Trading

About XM

XM is an internationally established trading and investment firm, with over 20 million clients, from over 190 countries. Armed with multiple international licenses, XM offers competitive services for retail traders, investors, and affiliates.

With over 15 years of serving clients, XM has proven to be fair, trustworthy, and dependable. Traders can access over 1,400 instruments across all devices. The award-winning broker is known for its wide range of products, excellent support, and outstanding education.

Risk Warning: Trading involves significant risks and may result in the loss of your invested capital. T&Cs apply

Disclaimer: Promotions and bonuses are not available for accounts registered under XM’s EU-based entity. Specific regions may be excluded. The XM Group operates globally under various entities, so products, services, and features listed here vary between XM entities.  For further information, please visit the XM website.

(Disclaimer: This is a sponsored press release. Readers should conduct their own research before making any investment, trading, or financial decisions. This publication is not responsible for any losses or claims arising from this content.)

Detention of a 95-Year-Old Religious Leader Damages Korea’s Reputation: European Scholars of Religion Call for the Release of Chairman Lee Man-hee

Detention of a 95-Year-Old Religious Leader Damages Korea’s Reputation: European Scholars of Religion Call for the Release of Chairman Lee Man-hee

Concerns Raised at European Academy of Religion’s International Conference Held in Rome—Strong Appeals Over Violation of International Law

European scholars of religion are making strong appeals to the South Korean government to release Lee Man-hee, the 95-year-old Chairman of Shincheonji Church, who remains in detention.

Chairman Lee was detained on 24 June on charges including violations of the Political Parties Act and was indicted on 30 June. The Joint Police–Prosecution Investigation Headquarters alleges that, between July 2021 and January 2024, he directed the mass registration of approximately 50,000 church members into a particular political party.

In response, Shincheonji Church stated that individual members freely participated in political activities and that both Chairman Lee and the church have faithfully cooperated throughout the entire investigation process, including the searches and seizures. The church also expressed deep regret, stating that detaining Chairman Lee, an elderly man aged 95, amounts in effect to a form of physical punishment.

Scholars of Religion State that Detaining an Elderly Person Over Non-violent Allegations Violates International Law

Dr. Introvigne as a speaker at the European Academy of Religion’s international conference held on 3 July

The European Academy of Religion (EuARe), a non-profit academic network connecting scholars and institutions of religious studies across Europe, held its Ninth Annual Conference in Rome, Italy, on 3 July, where the circumstances surrounding Shincheonji Church were addressed. During the session titled “Shincheonji, a Korean New Religion in Global Context,” European scholars of religion presented their respective academic papers on Shincheonji Church. The recent situation in South Korea, including the detention of Chairman Lee, was also shared with participants.

At the conference, Dr. Massimo Introvigne, a sociologist of religion and the Founder and Managing Director of the Center for Studies on New Religions (CESNUR), commented on the detention of Chairman Lee as follows:

Dr. Massimo Introvigne, the Founder and Managing Director of CESNUR

“In all European Union countries, legislation mandates that, those older than 80, only exceptionally, should be put in jail; they should be under house arrest if needed, and only for violent crimes, if there is a risk of actual violence connected with blood crimes. Here, of course, there are no blood crimes, and the accusations are violations of electoral law.”

“And what Korea is doing to this elderly religious leader is in violation of international law, including the United Nations’ so-called Mandela Rules, which mandate that preliminary detention should be, in general, not the rule, and only in an extremely limited number of exceptional cases may be applied to elderly prisoners. So what is happening is an unmitigated scandal, which hides a political and religious vendetta.”

Eric Roux, an interfaith advocate and President of the European Interreligious Forum for Religious Freedom (EIFRF), who also participated in the session, reiterated the injustice of detaining an elderly person.

Eric Roux, President of EIFRF

“A man of 95 years old being put in jail is not something that you can reconcile with the objective of respecting human dignity. Even if what you pretend he has done is true, you would not put a man of this age in prison as is the case now. So I would suggest that this be reviewed very fast to avoid something that would be very detrimental to the reputation of South Korea, which is please, get that man out of jail and do it now.”

Human Rights Expert Describes the Detention as Unthinkable in a Democratic Country

Human rights lawyer Alessandro Amicarelli expressed concern, citing South Korea’s democratic tradition. He is a solicitor of the Senior Courts of England and Wales, a barrister in Italy, and Chairman of the European Federation for Freedom of Belief (FOB).

Alessandro Amicarelli, Chairman of FOB

“As a human rights lawyer, I always considered South Korea a true democracy where human rights are upheld like a foundation of the democracy. Unfortunately, what’s happening now is truly shocking. … We cannot accept that a religious leader in a democratic country, at the age of 95, has to be under this kind of pressure.”

“What we’re seeing right now, … it looks like South Korea is departing from its own Constitution, its own human rights foundation. For this reason, I’m very happy to support Shincheonji in your fight against abuse and persecution in South Korea and anywhere in the world.”

Shincheonji Church emphasized that the detention of Chairman Lee has gone beyond academic interest and is now being raised as an international human rights issue.

The international human rights organizations United for Human Rights and Coordination des Associations et des Particuliers pour la Liberté de Conscience (CAP-LC; Coordination of Associations and Individuals for Freedom of Conscience) submitted a joint written statement on the human rights issues faced by Shincheonji Church to the 62nd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on 25 May (Document No. A/HRC/62/NGO/236; circulated on 10 June). In the statement, the two organizations assessed that “the situation has intensified” in South Korea and noted that framing members’ registration with a political party as evidence of “religion–politics collusion” is inconsistent with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which guarantees every citizen the right to participate in political life.

The two organizations further stated: “In December 2025, the President ordered the creation of a joint police–prosecutor task force explicitly targeting Shincheonji… Senior officials have publicly referred to Shincheonji as a ‘criminal organization,’ statements incompatible with the presumption of innocence.” They also added, “We [urge] the Government of the Republic of Korea to reaffirm its commitment to freedom of religion, non-discrimination, and state neutrality.”

Shincheonji Church noted that “As support and petitions from prominent figures in the international community continue to grow regarding the detention of Chairman Lee Man-hee, pressure on the South Korean government and the judiciary is also mounting.” It further said, “The prompt release of Chairman Lee is a matter of safeguarding freedom of religion and human rights, which are core values of democracy.”

SCJ is an abbreviation for Shincheonji. SCJ TV is the official broadcasting channel of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony. As a global media platform featuring worship, Bible education, teaching, and cultural content, SCJ TV aims to make its Bible-based teachings accessible to audiences worldwide, transcending geographical and linguistic boundaries.

Website: https://www.shincheonji.org/en
https://www.scjtvglobal.com
Contact: press@scjtvglobal.com

Rakhi Gifts for Sister: Foundation Gift Launches Its Raksha Bandhan 2026 Collection

Rakhi Gifts for Sister: Foundation Gift Launches Its Raksha Bandhan 2026 Collection

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 4: Raksha Bandhan 2026 falls on Friday, August 28, and the hunt for rakhi gifts for a sister is already on. If you are a brother who leaves it late every year, you have plenty of company. The budget is rarely the hard part. The hard part is finding something that feels like her, and not like a last minute grab off a shelf.

Foundation Gift, a personalised gifting brand based in Mumbai, has opened its Raksha Bandhan 2026 range for sisters. The pieces span a wide set of budgets and tastes, and each one can be personalised with her name, a birthstone, or a short message.

The brand has more than 3,300 verified five star reviews. What it does well is simple. It personalises stainless steel jewellery with names and birthstones, sends it in gift ready packaging, and delivers in three to five days anywhere in India. Nothing to assemble, and no wrapping to sort out.

The Raksha Bandhan 2026 collection for sisters

1) Personalised Raksha Bandhan Hamper for Sister

Rs. 1,799 to Rs. 2,499

For when you want the whole thing sorted in one go.

This ready to gift rakhi hamper pairs a personalised keepsake with proper packaging, so there is nothing left to arrange once it arrives. Add her name or a line of your own, and it stops looking like a stock gift and starts looking like hers.

It is an easy call for a sister who already seems to own everything, and it takes the guesswork out of the day for you.

Price: Rs. 1,799 to Rs. 2,499 | Shop the Sister Hamper

2) Personalised Raksha bandhan Gift Combo for Sister

Rs. 1,249 to Rs. 1,999

One box, two pieces, no second guessing.

The combo brings together a personalised bracelet and a matching keepsake, so you are not stuck choosing between meaningful and pretty. Every piece can be engraved or matched to her, which is what makes it read as thought through rather than convenient.

For the price, it is a generous raksha bandhan gift for a sister, and it turns up ready to hand over.

Price: Rs. 1,249 to Rs. 1,999 | Shop the Gift Combo

3) Initial Birthstone Necklace

Rs. 1,499

The one she will actually reach for.

A slim necklace that carries her initial and her birth month stone, so it is personal on two levels at once. It goes with most things and suits a sister of any age.

With 58 reviews behind it and a quiet, everyday design, it works for someone who leans understated rather than flashy. It was Rs. 2,499 and is now Rs. 1,499.

Price: Rs. 1,499 | Shop the Birthstone Necklace

4) Personalised Classic Bracelet

From Rs. 949

The bestseller, and it earns the title.

A gold toned stainless steel bracelet, adjustable to any wrist, engraved with her name. It is the kind of thing that gets worn on a normal Tuesday rather than saved for special occasions, and with more than 700 reviews it is the most loved sister gift in the range.

It is anti tarnish, fully adjustable, and covered by a warranty on its shine. At Rs. 949 to start, it makes a plain point: a personal gift does not have to be expensive to mean something.

Price: from Rs. 949 | Shop the Classic Bracelet

“Sisters remember how a gift made them feel long after the day itself. We built this range so any brother can hand over something that carries her name, her birthstone, or a message meant only for her.”

-Team Foundation Gift, Mumbai

Rakhi gifts for sisters at every budget

Beyond the four pieces above, the collection runs from personalised rakhi gifts for a sister under Rs. 500 up to premium jewellery and hampers. So there is a real option whether you are spending a few hundred rupees or a few thousand. Personalisation is built into the price rather than added on, and every order ships free across India.

Ordering in time for August 28

Raksha Bandhan 2026 lands on Friday, August 28. Foundation Gift ships within 24 to 48 hours and delivers across India in three to five working days, so order by August 23 to stay safe. Tracking reaches you on WhatsApp and email once it is on the way. Cash on delivery is available across India, and if you are sending a gift home from abroad, the brand ships to more than 20 countries.

Every order arrives in premium packaging, ready to hand over. Returns run for 14 days, and all jewellery carries a 12 month warranty.

Browse the full Raksha Bandhan collection:

foundationgift.com/collections/rakshabandhan-gifts

Free shipping on prepaid orders | COD available | 14 day returns

About Foundation Gift

Foundation Gift is a Mumbai based personalised gifting brand run by ADAK & KOLEY PRIVATE LIMITED (GST: 27AAXCA9888N1Z6), 44-B, 408, Manish Nagar, 4 Bungalows, Andheri West, Mumbai 400053. The brand makes laser engraved keychains, bracelets, necklaces, spiritual jewellery, and gift hampers, all built to make gifting personal. With 3,300+ verified reviews and delivery to more than 20 countries, it is one of India’s most trusted personalised gifting stores.

Media Contact

Foundation Gift | support@foundationgift.com Website: www.foundationgift.com

Interior Trends 2026: Why Nature-Inspired Laminates Are Defining Modern Indian Spaces

Interior Trends 2026: Why Nature-Inspired Laminates Are Defining Modern Indian Spaces

New Delhi [India], August 3: The evolution of Indian interiors is seeing an increasing connection with nature. As people create new calming, natural and everlasting interiors, nature-themed materials like “nature-inspired laminates” are emerging as some of the top influencers shaping “new trends in Indian interiors 2026”.

Natural surfaces and warm finishes are being used instead of shiny artificial-looking surfaces in luxury apartments, premium villas, hospitality spaces, office spaces and modern retail spaces. As a leader in this type of change, Royale Touche is a premium surface and laminate company that is redefining modern interior design in India with fantastic designs, high-quality finishes and technology-driven laminate solutions.

The Rise of Organic Luxury in Indian Homes

Increased interest in “organics” and a natural aesthetic has increased greatly in the past few years. Consumers have begun to look for warmth, sophistication, and emotional connection in their home interiors. As a result, designers are using wood veneers or stains; matte finishes; earth tones; stone patterns and textured finishes to achieve the look of natural woods but have the durability associated with modern materials.

Today, lamination plays an important role in styling premium interiors. From modular kitchens to wardrobes, from television units to office cabinets, from wall panels to designer furniture, laminates are a major contributor to the overall visual identity of a space.

Royale Touche has established itself as one of the go-to sources for “premium laminates” in the rapidly evolving marketplace due to its extensive lines of “laminates that mimic wood patterns and textures” and “nature-inspired” finished products. Royale Touche Designs create collections with luxury in mind and practicality through high-end, low-maintenance product offerings.

Why Nature-Inspired Laminates Are Dominating Interior Design Trends 2026

Consumers of today desire spaces that look beautiful yet function properly and explore the top laminate brands and collections to watch in 2026 for a broader view of where the market is heading.

High-maintenance materials such as Natural Wood and Stone typically contain moisture sensitivities, require polishing, and can be cost-prohibitive. Laminates designed to look like those items can provide a more reasonably priced, durable alternative without sacrificing the aesthetic appeal.

This is the area in whichRoyale Touche has established its stature in the organised laminate sector. Royale Touche offers premium laminate products with:

  • Realistic wood grain looks
  • State-of-the-art surface finishes
  • Exceptional scratch resistance
  • High-pressure laminate durability
  • Long-term colour consistency
  • Easy to maintain surfaces
  • Superior tactile feel

The attributes of Royale Touche’s products make them ideal for luxury residential and commercial locations throughout India.

Premium Laminates vs Local Market Alternatives

In India, the laminate industry is primarily divided into two groups: organised premium laminate companies and the less organised local laminate manufacturers. Many places in the country that have laminate available locally normally prefer to buy laminate from the local market because the cost is much lower than buying organised laminates. Often, buyers would consider products from organised laminate manufacturers to be of much better quality than products available in the local market with regard to:

  • Inconsistent overall finish quality
  • Poor overall edge durability
  • Colour will fade and lose its original finish
  • Very low resistance to moisture and scratches
  • Very few design patterns are available

Organized laminate manufacturers, such as Royale Touche, create a higher quality, superior product standard than can be obtained from local laminate manufacturers. While low upfront cost options will provide immediate savings on your install, premium options will offer far superior durability, finish consistency, and long-term value.

Royale Touche sets itself apart with cutting edge design innovation, superior quality control from an international manufacturing perspective, a variety of options, and retail appeal, making it the preferred choice of architects, interior designers, luxury homeowners, and premium commercial applications.

Decorative Laminates Becoming Essential in Modern Design

Demand for decorative laminates in India is growing rapidly across many sectors. In particular, there is an explosion in the use of nature-drawn inspiration in decorative laminates for:

Residential Uses

  • Modular kitchens
  • Wardrobes
  • Bedroom furniture
  • Wall panels for living rooms
  • Dining areas
  • Home offices

Commercial Uses

  • Corporate offices
  • Co-working spaces
  • Retail stores
  • Hospitality interiors
  • Cafes and restaurants
  • High-end showrooms

The growth of premium-priced residential and commercial construction in major metropolitan areas has been a catalyst for the demand for high-end decorative laminates that provide both durability and aesthetic quality.

Sustainability Is Influencing Material Choices

A second major reason interior design trends 2026 will be influenced by is sustainability. There is growing consumer awareness about sustainable decoration, ease of maintenance, and how your decorative choice is affecting our planet.

Laminate products that resemble natural materials fit into this trend, as they create an authentic appearance without utilizing the most costly natural wood products, etc. Royale Touche will be continuing to adapt to these changing consumer preferences by providing collections of laminate products that combine both design/appearance and functionality/effectiveness.

Royale Touche Reinforces Its Leadership in Premium Surfaces

As Indian residences continue to evolve into warmer, more organic, and intentional designs, nature-inspired laminates will likely continue to rank among the major material trends in the future.

As a result of its superior craftsmanship, innovative surface technologies, luxurious finishes, and extensive assortment of wood finish laminates, Royale Touche is consistently viewed as one of the top names in premium surfacing solutions. In a market where buyers increasingly demand reliability, visual appeal, and longevity, Royale Touche provides a top-level standard for modern Indian interior design and premium decorative laminates in India.

Royale Touche collaborates with some of Europe’s most renowned and innovative decor manufacturers, bringing world-class surface design expertise to its laminate collections. These partners invest extensively in research, design, and technology to create exceptionally natural-looking woodgrain surfaces inspired by species such as Oak, Walnut, Ash, Pine, and other premium hardwoods.

The design process involves meticulous attention to microscopic details, including grain flow, pore structure, texture variation, colour depth, and natural wood characteristics. European decor designers work at an advanced level of precision to ensure that every laminate surface closely replicates the authenticity and visual richness of real wood.

This commitment to design excellence results in laminates that offer superior realism and depth. Read more about embracing nature through wood laminates and why natural-inspired surfaces continue to lead in modern Indian interiors. The difference is evident not only in the visual appearance but also in the overall tactile experience, making Royale Touche laminates a preferred choice for architects, interior designers, and premium residential and commercial projects.