Thursday, January 8, 2026

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Avro India Leads Waste-to-Wealth Shift with India’s Largest Flexible Plastic Recycling Unit New Delhi, January 8, 2026: Avro India Limited, a leading manufacturer of plastic-moulded furniture, is set to address one of India’s most complex environmental challenges—recycling difficult-to-process plastic waste—with the launch of its state-of-the-art greenfield recycling facility in Ghaziabad. Operating under AVRO Recycling Limited, a 100% owned subsidiary of Avro India Limited, the facility houses India’s largest flexible plastic recycling plant, with a current processing capacity of 500 metric tonnes per month (MTPM). The capacity is scheduled to scale up to 1,000 MTPM by Q4 of FY 2025–26. The capital expenditure invested in the recycling plant stands at Rs 25 crore as of date, with plans to invest an additional Rs 30 crore by FY 2027. As part of its long-term sustainability vision, the company also plans to expand pan-India through future greenfield recycling projects. Founded in 2002, Avro India Limited has consistently delivered durable, high-quality, and affordable plastic-moulded furniture to households, businesses, and institutions across India. Today, the company enjoys nationwide prominence and is listed on both the NSE and BSE. Avro has built one of India’s most extensive distribution networks, comprising over 30,000 retailers, supported by more than 300 distributors across 24 states. Historically, difficult-to-process plastic waste—such as cement bags, salt bags, sugar bags, putty bags, and calcite packaging—was considered largely non-recyclable and was either downcycled or handled by the unorganised sector. After more than three years of intensive research, trials, and technological innovation, Avro has developed a proprietary system capable of upcycling such complex plastic waste at scale, enabling the responsible processing of nearly 1 million metric tonnes per annum (MTPA) of such waste generated in India. The recycled granules produced at the facility are fully utilised in the manufacture of high-value end products, including plastic furniture, air coolers, washing machines, automotive components, and other industrial and consumer applications. These granules are available at up to 40% lower cost than virgin plastic, while meeting stringent technical and durability standards—helping manufacturers remain cost-efficient, compliant, and environmentally responsible. With the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) norms by the Government of India—mandating the use of at least 30% recycled plastic content in rigid plastics—brand owners are facing a significant supply gap of high-quality recycled raw materials. Addressing this challenge, Avro India has emerged as the largest and most reliable organised player in the flexible plastic recycling space, offering consistent volumes at industrial scale. Commenting on the development, Mr. Sushil Kumar Aggarwal, Chairman and Whole-Time Director, Avro India Limited, said“India’s plastic challenge cannot be solved through fragmented efforts. It requires scale, technology, and intent. At Avro, we have invested years of research to build a system that converts complex plastic waste into valuable raw material. Our vision goes beyond recycling—we are building a nationwide ecosystem that transforms waste into opportunity while protecting our planet.” Looking ahead, Avro India is developing a pan-India network of ‘mother and baby’ recycling plants, aimed at decentralizing waste processing and accelerating India’s transition to a circular economy. Through innovation, scale, and collaboration, the company aims to play a defining role in positioning India as a global leader in sustainable plastic management.

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Gujarati Classic ‘Desh Re Joya Dada Pardesh Joya’ Returns to Theatres on January 9, 2026 in 4K restored version Ultra Media Celebrates Gujarati Cinema Legacy with Theatrical Return of Desh Re Joya Dada Pardesh Joya Mumbai/Ahmedabad, 8 January 2026: A story that defined an era is set to return to where it truly belongs: the big screen. The iconic Gujarati film Desh Re Joya Dada Pardesh Joya is re-releasing in theatres on January 9, 2026, inviting audiences to relive the emotions, music and cultural resonance that made it one of the most celebrated milestones in Gujarati cinema. The theatrical re-release is part of Ultra Rewind, an initiative by Ultra Media & Entertainment that brings landmark and culturally significant regional films from its vast library back to cinema halls. As part of its re-release, the film has undergone a meticulous 4K restoration process, bringing improved picture and sound quality while preserving its original cinematic essence. Originally released in 1998, Desh Re Joya Dada Pardesh Joya went on to create box-office history, earning approximately ₹22 crore during its original theatrical run which was an extraordinary achievement for Gujarati cinema at the time. The film emerged as one of the highest ticket-selling Gujarati films of its era, restoring audience confidence during a challenging phase for the regional film industry and reaffirming the power of emotionally rooted storytelling. Starring Hiten Kumar and Roma Manek, the film remains a benchmark for performance-driven storytelling in Gujarati cinema. Directed and produced by the late Govindbhai Patel, the film struck a deep emotional chord through its culturally rooted narrative. It follows the poignant journey of Ram and Radha childhood companions separated by family conflict and circumstance exploring themes of migration, displacement and the enduring pull of one’s homeland, which remain strikingly relevant even today. The film’s impact is further elevated by its performances, with Hiten Kumar delivering one of the most celebrated portrayals in Gujarati cinema, while Roma Manek brought depth and sensitivity to Radha’s character, supported by a strong ensemble cast. Equally timeless is the film’s music, composed by Arvind Barot, whose songs, rooted in folk traditions and heartfelt emotion became an inseparable part of Gujarati cultural life. Speaking on the re-release, Sushilkumar Agrawal, CEO, Ultra Media & Entertainment Group, said, “Desh Re Joya Dada Pardesh Joya is not just a successful film it is an emotional milestone for Gujarati cinema. Its original box-office journey and the bond it built with audiences reflect the timeless power of honest, rooted storytelling. Through Ultra Rewind, we are proud to bring this landmark film back to theatres, where it can be rediscovered and experienced in the way it was always meant to be". With Desh Re Joya Dada Pardesh Joya returning to cinemas, Ultra Media & Entertainment reaffirms its commitment to preserving and celebrating regional cinema. Through Ultra Rewind, the company continues to spotlight films that are not merely remembered, but deeply felt stories that transcend time and continue to resonate across generations. Last year, Ultra Rewind marked its debut with the theatrical re-release of Rangeela, followed by a special retrospective celebrating Guru Dutt’s centenary, which saw several of his iconic films return to theatres in restored formats. Building on this momentum, Ultra Rewind is now expanding its focus to regional cinema, beginning with the re-release of landmark Gujarati films.

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Come January and the entire Mumbai is painted rainbow colours with the Mumbai Queer Pride Month activities, across the town by various organisations and community groups, leading upto the Mumbai Queer Pride March on Saturday January 31st 3-5pm at August Kranti Maidan. KASHISH Pride Film Festival, a part of the Mumbai Queer Pride collective, is kicking off its celebration of the month with a LGBTQ film screening at Sophia College for Women on Friday January 9th between 1-3.30pm at the college’s convention centre. Titled ‘KASHISH Forward @ Sophia’, the event will showcase 7 short films by emerging filmmakers that have won awards or acclaim at the annual festival. They capture the diverse queer experiences across the LGBTQ+ spectrum in today’s society. These are stories filled with hope, resilience, and positive endings. Films to be screened are: MAKEUP MY SHIELD (Marathi, dir: Kunal Vijaykar), TUTTI FRUTTI CAKE (Hindi, dir: Rohit Prajapati), THE WITCH OF VIHAR LAKE (Marathi, dir: Joey Kaushik), PROJECT PRIYO (Assamese, Bengali, Malayalam, Hindi, dir: Shoi), HOLY CURSE (English, Hindi, dir: Snigdha Kapoor), JASMINE THAT BLOOMS IN AUTUMN (Bengali, dir: Chandradeep Das), BECAUSE (Hindi, English, dir: Sunita Malpani) While ‘Makeup my Shield’ is a music video about a trans Lavani dancer and how she uses makeup as her shield, ‘The Witch of Vihar Lake’ is about conservation of environment and a witch. This was a co-winner of the Ismat Chughtai Award for Best Woman Filmmaker, along with ‘Project Priyo’, a documentary amplifying the voices and experiences of queer and trans* individuals in India, highlighting intersections of caste, religion, and marginalization. ‘Tutti Frutti Cake’ shows the strength of a ‘family of choice’ with LGBTQ persons sharing a household, and ‘Because’ shows a beautiful relationship between a visually impaired guy and his closeted friend. ‘Jasmine That Blooms in Autumn’, winner of Best Indian Narrative Short award, is a subtle and evocative relationship between two women in a shelter home for the elderly. Highlight of the event is the short film ‘Holy Curse’, which was in consideration for Best Live Action Short for this year’s Academy Awards. The film follows an 11-year-old's gender identity struggle in India, facing family attempts to cure a perceived curse. The event is open to college students and everyone else too by registering online or at the venue with a nominal registration fee. Presented by KASHISH Arts Foundation and Mumbai Queer Pride alongwith Sophia Queer Collective (SQC), Depts. of Education (Sophia College for Women) and Sociology (Sophia Jr. College). Link to register for the event is tinyurl.com/KFSophia

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Gujarati Classic Desh Re Joya Dada Pardesh Joya Returns to Theatres on January 9, 2026, in a Restored Version Ultra Media Celebrates Gujarati Cinema Legacy with Theatrical Return of Desh Re Joya Dada Pardesh Joya January 2026: A story that defined an era is set to return to where it truly belongs: the big screen. The iconic Gujarati film Desh Re Joya Dada Pardesh Joya is re-releasing in theatres on January 9, 2026, inviting audiences to relive the emotions, music and cultural resonance that made it one of the most celebrated milestones in Gujarati cinema. The theatrical re-release is part of Ultra Rewind, an initiative by Ultra Media & Entertainment that brings landmark and culturally significant regional films from its vast library back to cinema halls. As part of its re-release, the film has undergone a meticulous restoration process, bringing improved picture and sound quality while preserving its original cinematic essence. Originally released in 1998, Desh Re Joya Dada Pardesh Joya went on to create box-office history, earning approximately ₹22 crore during its original theatrical run which was an extraordinary achievement for Gujarati cinema at the time. The film emerged as one of the highest ticket-selling Gujarati films of its era, restoring audience confidence during a challenging phase for the regional film industry and reaffirming the power of emotionally rooted storytelling. Starring Hiten Kumar and Roma Manek, the film remains a benchmark for performance-driven storytelling in Gujarati cinema. Directed and produced by the late Govindbhai Patel, the film struck a deep emotional chord through its culturally rooted narrative. It follows the poignant journey of Ram and Radha childhood companions separated by family conflict and circumstance exploring themes of migration, displacement and the enduring pull of one’s homeland, which remain strikingly relevant even today. The film’s impact is further elevated by its performances, with Hiten Kumar delivering one of the most celebrated portrayals in Gujarati cinema, while Roma Manek brought depth and sensitivity to Radha’s character, supported by a strong ensemble cast. Equally timeless is the film’s music, composed by Arvind Barot, whose songs, rooted in folk traditions and heartfelt emotion became an inseparable part of Gujarati cultural life. Speaking on the re-release, Sushilkumar Agrawal, CEO, Ultra Media & Entertainment Group, said, “Desh Re Joya Dada Pardesh Joya is not just a successful film it is an emotional milestone for Gujarati cinema. Its original box-office journey and the bond it built with audiences reflect the timeless power of honest, rooted storytelling. Through Ultra Rewind, we are proud to bring this landmark film back to theatres, where it can be rediscovered and experienced in the way it was always meant to be". With Desh Re Joya Dada Pardesh Joya returning to cinemas, Ultra Media & Entertainment reaffirms its commitment to preserving and celebrating regional cinema. Through Ultra Rewind, the company continues to spotlight films that are not merely remembered, but deeply felt stories that transcend time and continue to resonate across generations.

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

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Oriflame India Collaborates with Nitanshi Goel to Launch Opt Optimals Even Out Range in India Strengthens Skincare Portfolio and Expands Skinimalist Opt Optimals Range National, 8 January 2026: Oriflame, the Swedish holistic beauty and wellbeing brand, has announced a collaboration with actor Nitanshi Goel for the launch of its Opt Optimals Even Out skincare range, reinforcing its focus on skinimalism and science-led skincare solutions tailored for the Indian market. As Indian consumers increasingly gravitate towards simplified skincare routines backed by credible, dermatologically tested formulations, the Opt Optimals Even Out range marks a strategic expansion within Oriflame’s Optimals range. Dermatologically tested, the range is formulated with a high-performance blend of Niacinamide, Rainbow Algae Extract, Glycolic Acid, and Para-probiotic technology. Together, these ingredients help address pigmentation and uneven skin tone while supporting hydration, resilience, and skin barrier health. Actor Nitanshi Goel, acclaimed for her debut in in the movie Laapataa Ladies and honoured with the prestigious Filmfare and IIFA Awards for her performance, adds cultural relevance and relatability to Oriflame’s evolving skincare narrative. Her association reflects the brand’s emphasis on real, everyday skincare journeys and its intent to connect with consumers who value authenticity, consistency, and long-term skin health, reinforcing Oriflame’s commitment to trust-led, science-backed skincare solutions. As part of the collaboration, Nitanshi Goel will feature across Oriflame’s digital ecosystem, product catalogues, website, and social media platforms, further strengthening visibility for the Optimals range and reinforcing the brand’s relevance among skincare-first audiences. Commenting on the collaboration, Abhishek Chakraborty, Head of Brand Communication, Digital, and PR, Oriflame India, said, “Skincare continues to be a key growth priority for Oriflame in India, with consumers increasingly seeking solutions that combine efficacy, gentleness, and simplicity. The Opt Optimals Even Out range reflects our ongoing investment in science-led skincare that addresses real and recurring concerns while supporting overall skin health. As part of the Optimals range, this launch strengthens our long-term skincare strategy, and Nitanshi Goel’s association amplifies Oriflame’s leadership in delivering effective, trusted skincare solutions to a wide consumer base.” Sharing her perspective, Nitanshi Goel said, “I am drawn to skincare that prioritises consistency and skin health over quick fixes. As someone who is always on the move, I value routines that are simple yet effective, and the Opt Optimals Even Out range fits seamlessly into everyday life. Partnering with Oriflame feels natural, as the brand encourages embracing real skin and building long-term confidence through mindful, science-backed skincare.” The collaboration underscores Oriflame’s continued investment in high-growth skincare categories driven by concerns such as hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and skin barrier health. Suitable for all skin types, the Opt Optimals Even Out range includes cleansers, a targeted serum, creams, a skin protector with SPF 50, and specialised gel face patches. Priced between INR 469 and INR 1,899, the Opt Optimals Even Out range is available on Oriflame’s website: in.oriflame.com as well as through Oriflame’s brand partners. Through this collaboration, Oriflame continues to evolve its skincare narrative in India, balancing science, simplicity, and cultural relevance while deepening engagement with a growing base of beauty consumers. Link to the Catalogue featuring Nitanshi Goel: https://in.oriflame.com/catalogue?cataloguecode=2026001&store=INoriflameindiapvtltd&PageNumber=1 ‘ About Oriflame

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Pyaar chunoge ya Paisa? The Game is on and the Choice is yours! Catch MTV Splitsvilla X6: Pyaar ya Paisa premiering on 9th January, 2026. ~The 16th season of India’s biggest and most-loved dating reality is all set to air from 9th January for the first time thrice a week, Fri-Sat-Sun at 7 pm on JioHotstar and MTV~ ~ Fans eagerly await the sizzling new co-hosts Sunny Leone alongside Karan Kundrra to take the reins of India's biggest dating reality show ~ Finding love has just been taken a notch higher as India’s biggest youth dating reality show, MTV Splitsvilla, returns with its 16th season, i.e. bigger, bolder and spicier. Hosted by the ultimate Queen of Hearts - Sunny Leone, who recently celebrated a decade of her iconic journey with the show, joined by her charming co-host, the King of Hearts - Karan Kundrra. This time the drama dose has doubled up with our Mischief Maker duo - Nia Sharma and Uorfi. Gear up for MTV Splitsvilla X6: Pyaar ya Paisa, set against the scenic coast of Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, where 32 hot & single girls and boys step up their game to win 'Pyaar ya Paisa'. Instax Fujifilm presents MTV Splitsvilla X6 Co-powered by Sofy, NEWME, Envy Perfumes and Philips Body Groomer. starting 9th January on Fri, Sat & Sun at 7 pm on MTV India and JioHotstar. ‘MTV Splitsvilla X6: Pyaar Ya Paisa’ brings a new twist, picking up from where ex-contestants Digvijay and Kashish left off last season. This time, contestants will be divided into the ‘Pyaar Villa’ and the ‘Paisa Villa’, where love and money come into play. Watch to see who finds their match and wins the game! Speaking about the launch of MTV Splitsvilla X6: Pyaar ya Paisa, host Sunny Leone said, “Splitsvilla has always been very close to my heart because it reflects how love, relationships and choices keep evolving with every generation. Over the years, I’ve seen the show grow with changing mindsets, dating styles and the realities of modern love. This season, with the ‘Pyaar ya Paisa’ twist, the stakes are higher than ever - emotions will be tested, bonds will be challenged and surprises will come from the most unexpected places. I’m truly excited to take this journey once again and can’t wait for all the Splitspaglus to witness the drama, passion and twists unfold from 9th January onwards!” Talking about the launch of MTV Splitsvilla X6: Pyaar ya Paisa, co-host Karan Kundrra, said, “Returning to MTV after six years feels like a true homecoming and MTV Splitsvilla has always been one of the channel’s most iconic shows. I am super excited to host this season alongside Sunny Leone, who knows the game inside out. What excites me most is seeing how contestants navigate this journey of love when money enters the picture and challenges their choices. It will also be interesting to watch how our mischief-makers, Nia and Uorfi, stir things up and tempt the contestants at every step. And with the show airing three times a week, there’s clearly going to be a lot more drama, fun and unexpected twists coming your way!” Get ready for a season where sparks fly, hearts race, and the ultimate question rules the villa: Kya pyaar jeetega kya paisa? Because when love and money come together, the game will never be the same again! ~ How far can one go in the name of love or money to win the game? Sunny Leone aur Karan Kundrra ke saath dekhiye MTV Splitsvilla X6: Pyaar ya

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सा रे गा मा पा फेम अभिजीत घोषाल की नई पेशकश: आधुनिक युवाओं के लिए क्लबमिक्स हनुमान चालीसा आज के भारतीय युवा भजनों की ओर फिर से जुड़ रहे हैं, लेकिन पुराने धीमे अंदाज़ में नहीं। वे ऐसा भक्ति संगीत चाहते हैं जिसे वे सिर्फ सुनें नहीं, बल्कि महसूस भी करें। तेज़ रिदम और एनर्जी से भरपूर भक्ति गीत आज युवाओं को आस्था से जोड़ने का नया तरीका बन रहे हैं। सा रे गा मा पा के 11 बार विजेता और प्रयागराज से ताल्लुक रखने वाले गायक अभिजीत घोषाल ने इसी सोच के साथ अपनी नई रचना क्लबमिक्स हनुमान चालीसा रिलीज़ की है। इसमें उन्होंने हनुमान चालीसा को तेज़, आधुनिक और एनर्जेटिक अंदाज़ में पेश किया है, लेकिन इसकी भक्ति भावना को पूरी तरह बनाए रखा है। “आज के युवा ऐसे भजनों की ओर आकर्षित होते हैं जिनमें रिदम, ऊर्जा और जान हो,” अभिजीत घोषाल कहते हैं। “वे सिर्फ गाना नहीं गाना चाहते, बल्कि भक्ति को महसूस करना चाहते हैं। जब संगीत उन्हें शारीरिक, भावनात्मक और आध्यात्मिक रूप से छूता है, तो वह उनकी रोज़मर्रा की ज़िंदगी का हिस्सा बन जाता है।” यही सोच उनकी नई पेशकश क्लबमिक्स हनुमान चालीसा के पीछे है। प्रयागराज से ताल्लुक रखने वाले, 11 बार सा रे गा मा पा के विजेता और बहुमुखी गायक अभिजीत घोषाल ने भारत के सबसे प्रिय मंत्रों में से एक हनुमान चालीसा को तेज और आधुनिक अंदाज़ में पेश किया है, लेकिन इसकी भक्ति भावना को पूरी तरह बनाए रखा है। वे कहते हैं,“हनुमान चालीसा हमेशा से मेरे दिल के बहुत करीब रही है। मैं ऐसा रूप बनाना चाहता था जो आस्था का सम्मान करे और साथ ही उस युवा पीढ़ी से भी जुड़े, जो ऊर्जा और लगातार गतिविधियों से भरी दुनिया में रहती है।”क्लबमिक्स हनुमान चालीसा में पारंपरिक धुनों को इलेक्ट्रॉनिक बीट्स, तेज़ टेम्पो और आधुनिक म्यूज़िक तकनीक के साथ जोड़ा गया है। आमतौर पर क्लबमिक्स को डांस फ्लोर से जोड़ा जाता है, लेकिन अभिजीत इसे भक्ति संगीत को और ज़्यादा गहराई से महसूस कराने का तरीका मानते हैं। वे बताते हैं,“एक बार का ज़ोरदार अनुभव नहीं, बल्कि नियमित जुड़ाव ही सच्चा रिश्ता बनाता है। जब युवा रोज़ ऐसे भजन से जुड़ते हैं, जिनमें उन्हें पसंद आने वाली रिदम और ऊर्जा होती है, तो भक्ति अपने आप उनकी ज़िंदगी का हिस्सा बन जाती है। भक्ति का शांत होना ज़रूरी नहीं, ताकतवर होना ज़रूरी है।” इस रिलीज़ के साथ, हर बीट और हर धुन आस्था को और मज़बूत करती है और श्रोताओं को नए अंदाज़ में मंत्र को महसूस करने, ध्यान करने और उससे जुड़ने के लिए प्रेरित करती है। इस गाने में जेसन मालू का संगीत है, अजय कुमार सिंह ने स्वरत स्टूडियो में डबिंग, मिक्सिंग और मास्टरिंग की है, और इसके बोल गोस्वामी तुलसीदास जी की श्री राम चरित मानस से लिए गए हैं। अभिजीत घोषाल ने खुद इसका अरेंजमेंट, कंपोज़िशन और गायन किया है, जिससे परंपरा और आधुनिकता का सुंदर मेल देखने को मिलता है। अभिजीत आगे कहते हैं,“यह सिर्फ संगीत नहीं है, यह एक अनुभव है। यहाँ रिदम और भक्ति मिलती हैं, ऊर्जा और आस्था एक साथ आती हैं, और श्रोता मंत्र की शक्ति को सच में महसूस कर पाते हैं। आध्यात्म और ऊर्जा साथ-साथ नाच सकते हैं, और यही इस ट्रैक का उद्देश्य है।” गोस्वामी तुलसीदास जी की श्री राम चरित मानस से लिए गए शब्दों, अभिजीत घोषाल की आवाज़ और कंपोज़िशन, जेसन मालू के संगीत और अजय कुमार सिंह की मिक्सिंग-मास्टरिंग के साथ यह प्रस्तुति आस्था, रिदम और भावना का ऐसा संगम बनती है, जहाँ भक्ति एक नए, जीवंत रूप में सामने आती है। ---------------------------------------------------------------