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  • Goldman Sachs Offloads ₹355 Crore Worth of Eternal Shares

    Goldman Sachs has sold over 1 crore shares of Eternal Limited, the parent company of Zomato, in a block deal valued at INR 355.32 crore. The shares were sold at INR 329 each, matching the closing price from the previous Wednesday. BofA Securities Europe SA acquired the entire stake, marking a significant transaction in the Indian food delivery and quick commerce sector.

    Details of the Transaction

    The sale represents approximately 0.11% of Eternal’s equity. Earlier this month, Goldman Sachs sold 82 lakh shares for INR 267 crore and 9.52 lakh shares for INR 31.6 crore, indicating a gradual exit from its investment in Eternal.

    Eternal’s Market Performance

    Despite a 90% decline in net profit for Q1 FY26 due to increased investments, Eternal has demonstrated strong revenue growth. The company’s market capitalisation has surpassed that of established firms like Tata Motors and Titan, driven by its robust performance in the food delivery and quick commerce sectors. HSBC has recently reiterated a ‘Buy’ call on Eternal, raising its target price to INR 390 per share, reflecting investor confidence in the company’s future prospects.

    Employee Stock Option Plans (ESOPs) to Retain Talent

    In a strategic move to retain and motivate its workforce, Eternal has approved the grant of 64.13 lakh stock options under its ESOP 2014, 2021, and 2024 plans, valued at approximately INR 211 crore. Each option is convertible into one fully paid equity share with a face value of INR 1. The options granted under the ESOP 2014 and 2021 plans can be exercised within a period of 10 years from the vesting date or 12 years from the date of listing, whichever is later. Options granted under the ESOP 2024 plan carry a 10-year exercise window from the vesting date.

    Conclusion

    Goldman Sachs’ recent sale of shares in Eternal shows how active and fast-changing the Indian tech and food delivery market is. While the deal reduces Goldman Sachs’ stake in the company, it also shows that investors are still interested in Eternal and its business plans. As the company keeps growing, it is unclear how these changes will affect its market position and how investors feel about it in the coming months.

  • L’Oréal India’s Profit Rises 23% to ₹597 Crore in FY25 Despite Slow Sales Growth

    In its latest financial results, L’Oréal India has posted a notable rise in profit for the year ending March 2025. Net profit increased by 22.6% to INR 597.5 crore, compared with INR 487.5 crore in FY24. Meanwhile, net sales rose by 6.25% to INR 5,925.3 crore.

    This growth was supported by a moderate rise in total income (including other income), which climbed by 5.2% to INR 5,979.2 crore. The company also managed to slightly reduce its advertising and promotional expenses by about 3%, bringing them down to INR 1,663.2 crore.

    Financial Metric FY24 (₹ Crore) FY25 (₹ Crore) Change (%)
    Operating Revenue 5,576 5,925 6%
    Total Expenses 5,023 5,162 2.8%
    Profit After Tax (PAT) 487 597 23%

    Slower Sales Growth Amid Rising Pressure from D2C Rivals

    While the profit jump is impressive, L’Oréal India’s topline growth was more modest. Some reports suggest sales increased by around 5%, under pressure from growing competition from direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands. These newer beauty firms are increasingly targeting younger consumers with digital marketing and streamlined product portfolios.

    The challenge is clear: while L’Oréal continues to command a strong presence in traditional channels, the shift in consumer habits toward online and direct purchases is intensifying competition in key segments.

    Strategic Moves, Future Plans, and Market Outlook

    To deepen its roots in India, L’Oréal’s global board is expected to visit the country soon to assess growth opportunities. The visit will coincide with recent leadership changes: Jacques Lebel has been appointed country manager, and Aseem Kaushik has been elevated as chairman, effective from 1 October.

    The company is also planning to scale up production locally. One report suggests L’Oréal intends to more than double its business in India over the coming years and expand manufacturing capacity.

    India remains a highly strategic market for global beauty firms. With a young population, rising incomes, and growing internet penetration, domestic demand for cosmetics and personal care continues to expand. Analysts expect this trend to encourage further investment from multinational brands as well as homegrown players.


    Top Cosmetics Brands in India | Popular Beauty Brands Brands
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  • Lenskart Gets SEBI Nod for IPO, to Raise ₹2,150 Crore via Fresh Issue

    Indian eyewear retailer Lenskart has secured approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP), a key regulatory step before launching its initial public offering (IPO).

    Under the current proposal, Lenskart plans to raise INR 2,150 crore via a fresh issue of shares. In addition, existing shareholders and promoters will sell up to 13.2 crore shares through an Offer for Sale (OFS).

    While some media reports mention a larger IPO size in the range of INR 7,500 to INR 8,000 crore, the INR 2,150 crore pertains specifically to the fresh issue component. The total size depends on how many existing shares are sold and at what valuation.

    Lenskart is targeting a November 2025 date for its stock market listing, subject to market conditions and final regulatory formalities.

    Use of Funds and Business Strategy

    The company has outlined how it plans to utilise the funds from the fresh issue. Key allocations include:

    • Expansion of new company-owned (CoCo) stores across India
    • Covering lease, rent, and licensing costs for its existing network
    • Investment in technology, cloud infrastructure, and brand marketing
    • Supporting acquisitions and general corporate objectives

    The OFS proceeds will allow early investors and promoters to partially exit or reduce their holdings. Among them, co-founder Peyush Bansal is expected to sell about 2.05 crore shares.

    Performance and Market Outlook

    Lenskart has shown strong financial improvement in its latest fiscal year. In FY25, the company reported a net profit of INR 297.3 crore, turning around from a loss of about INR 10 crore in FY24. Revenue rose by over 22–23% to around INR 6,652.5 crore.

    Lenskart operates in both online and offline channels, with more than 2,000 physical stores and a vertical integration model — designing, manufacturing, distributing, and retailing its eyewear products.

    Analysts view Lenskart’s upcoming IPO as a test of investor appetite in consumer tech and retail in India. If successful, the listing could galvanise more startups to enter the public markets.

    Challenges and Risks

    Despite the promising backdrop, Lenskart must navigate several challenges:

    • Market volatility: Fluctuations in investor sentiment can affect the valuation and timing of the IPO.
    • Competition: The eyewear and fashion accessory sector is crowded, both online and via local retailers.
    • Execution risk: Expanding store networks, managing lease burdens, and scaling operations can strain resources.
    • Regulatory & compliance matters: As a public company, stricter disclosure and governance norms will apply.

    Final Thoughts

    As Lenskart moves closer to its public debut, all eyes will be on how well it balances growth ambitions with execution discipline. A successful IPO could mark a milestone not just for the company, but also for India’s consumer-tech sector.


    Lenskart Gets Shareholder Nod for INR 2150 Cr IPO
    Lenskart secures shareholder approval for INR 2,150 Cr fresh issue ahead of a massive INR 8,500 Cr IPO, including OFS from investors.


  • The Digital Banking Revolution in Rural India: Driving Financial Inclusion Beyond Cash Transactions

    This article has been contributed by Manish Goyal, Chairman and Managing Director at Finkeda

    The peaceful villages and fields of rural India are gradually being disrupted, altering a way of life that has existed for hundreds of years. For so long, businesses in these areas were either reliant exclusively on the feel of crumpled rupees or the trust that came from a handshake. The old way of banking, which often involved filling out long, complicated forms or going to branches that were so far away that it seemed impossible, was very difficult. But today, thanks to a powerful wave of digital transformation driven by pricing and government ambition, barriers are being broken down. This story is about how banking is moving from physical locations to the palm of your hand, bringing millions into the official economy and creating a future where financial inclusion is a basic right, not just a luxury.

    The Foundation of a Digital Economy

    The success of digital banking in rural regions relies on three key elements: Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile, often called the JAM Trinity. The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), started in 2014, aimed to give a bank account to every adult who didn’t have one. These “zero-balance” accounts allowed millions of people to join the formal financial system for the first time. The Aadhaar system provided every citizen with a digital identity, making it easier to open an account without needing a lot of documents. Plus, the fact that mobile phones are available even in faraway villages helped a lot. Together, these three things created a system where people could open a bank account just by using their fingerprints and get banking services from a nearby agent, making banking available to everyone.

    UPI and AePS

    The most noticeable part of this change is the rise of digital payments. The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is a system that lets people transfer money instantly between bank accounts using an easy mobile app, and it has become super popular. The effectiveness of UPI lies in its simplicity. To transfer or receive money, users just need a mobile number or a unique UPI ID, which cuts out the hassle of complex account numbers and codes. Now, making digital payments is as straightforward as sending a text message. For instance, a farmer can now get paid for their crops directly into their bank account with just one click, and a small shopkeeper can take digital payments from customers using a QR code. The number of UPI transactions has increased a lot, showing how widely accepted it is in rural areas.

    Another thing to note is that the Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS) complements UPI by providing essential financial services to those without smartphones or internet. It allows users to carry out simple banking activities like cash withdrawals or balance inquiries using their Aadhaar number and a fingerprint scanner. Local helpers, called Bank Mitras, use these user-friendly devices to offer a mini banking experience right at the doorstep of villagers. This technology is particularly beneficial for seniors or anyone who finds reading and writing challenging, as it spares them from navigating complex digital platforms.


    Evolution of Indian Banking System: A Comprehensive Study
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    Unlocking Financial Freedom

    Digital Banking Empowers Welfare and Rural Businesses
    Digital Banking Empowers Welfare and Rural Businesses

    The shift to digital banking has completely transformed the way the government manages welfare programs. The Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system allows government assistance and benefits to be deposited directly into the bank accounts of those in need.  In the past, this money usually passed through a lot of middlemen, which led to delays and sometimes even misuse. Now, by directly sending money to the bank accounts created under PMJDY, the government has made the process easier and more efficient. This means that a farmer’s crop subsidy, a senior citizen’s pension, or a student’s scholarship is received completely and on time. This easy way of transferring money has not only helped the government save money but has also given people a feeling of security and control over their finances.

    Also, besides what the government is doing, digital banking is helping rural entrepreneurs and small businesses, too. With a real bank account and a record of digital transactions, people can now create a financial history, which helps them get loans. Having access to formal credit is really important for them to grow their businesses or invest in new ideas. A new trend is emerging with small business owners in rural India who are moving away from local moneylenders and are now able to access fair and affordable loans from banks. This marks a significant advancement in creating a more robust and inclusive rural economy.

    The Path Forward

    The transition from traditional banking to online banking in rural India is still underway. Initiatives like UPI and AePS have shown how technology can enhance financial inclusion, but there’s still much more to accomplish. Fintech companies are crucial in providing new, user-friendly apps and services that meet the needs of those in rural areas.

    It’s not just about moving from cash to digital payments. It’s about building a system that enables every Indian, regardless of where they live, to manage their finances, save for the future, and support themselves, which in turn helps the economy of India. The transition to digital banking is linking urban and rural India, creating a future where financial services are available to everyone, not just a select few.


    An Ultimate Guide on Setting Up Small Business Bank Account
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  • Millennials, Gen Z, and the New Indian Traveler: What’s Driving the Next Wave of Tourism?

    This article has been contributed by Ramanpreet Singh, Chief Growth Officer, SKIL Travel

    Millennials and Gen Z are reshaping the Indian travel experience. Just as they are playing the role of travel curator and researcher, their priorities have changed from traditional travel. Essentially, ticking off one another’s ‘hit list’ of tourist places is no longer the goal of travel; they want trips that feature authenticity, mindfulness, and discovery. While Goa, Manali, and Jaipur still regularly attract a good share of Indian travelers, these younger travelers are increasingly gravitating toward quieter, more ‘off-beat’ and lesser-known places—Gokarna over Goa, Naldehra instead of Shimla, Ashtamudi instead of Alleppey.

    As Ramanpreet Singh, Chief Growth Officer at SKIL Travel, observes, this shift is being shaped not only by destination preferences but also by the way trips are planned. With AI and other generative tools aiding itineraries, and a more patient, deliberate travel pace, this generation is forging paths that are less travelled. In creating itineraries, they are consciously choosing experiences that allow them to discover, reflect, and orient their travels toward meaning rather than just milestones.

    Lifestyle Travel

    For the Millennials and Gen Z of India, travel is not about ticking off monuments any more; it’s about immersion, meaning, and impact. They are swapping typical tourist experiences for more authentic experiences, like celebrating Holi in Mathura, learning Kathakali in Kerala, or attending a yoga retreat in Rishikesh. Sustainability is also influencing travel, with stays in Coorg’s coffee estates or eco-villages in Ladakh increasingly popular. Travel is viewed as learning about oneself, whether that be trekking the Spiti Valley in Himachal or volunteering on a farm in rural Rajasthan. From music festivals in Goa to wellness tourism in Kerala, the new Indian traveler is looking for transformative experiences, rather than merely transitory experiences.


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    Weddings, Business & Wellness

    Millennials and Gen Z are redefining Indian tourism by blending celebration, work, and self-care. Destination weddings are booming, with Rajasthan’s royal palaces in Udaipur and Jaipur, and Goa’s beaches leading the trend for grandeur with a modern twist. Parallelly, wellness travel has surged, as younger travelers seek yoga retreats in Rishikesh, Ayurveda therapies in Kerala, and holistic healing experiences in Coorg or Dharamshala. The rise of “bleisure” trips is equally striking business hubs like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Gurugram are seeing professionals extend work travel into leisure escapes, signaling a future where Indian tourism thrives on flexibility, wellness, and cultural immersion.

    Social Media Influence

    Influences on Millennial and GenZ Travel in India
    Influences on Millennial and GenZ Travel in India

    Travel in India for Millennials and Gen Z may be influenced by Instagram aesthetics just as much as wanderlust. Viral reels are responsible for trips to Meghalaya’s living root bridges, the Rann of Kutch’s dazzling white desert and the rainbow streets of Pondicherry. A safari in Ranthambore and taking daily heritage walks in Varanasi are just as desirable as a café stint in Shillong or diving into the Andamans. Conscientiously eco-aware travelers are also looking for sustainable packages in destinations such as Coorg or Sikkim. With data-driven offers, festive sales, and loyalty benefits now too raising the ground conditions of affordability, this young wave of Indian tourism is more focused on authentic and shareable experiences on behalf of future-facing tourism.

    Startup Opportunities

    This trend has created a boom in the startups offering curated experiences: plant-based adventure wildlife safaris in Ranthambore delivered by an AI itinerary, eco-stays in Coorg powered by renewable energy, to even hyper-local food trails in old Delhi booked through mobile-first apps. There are platforms that enable carbon-neutral travel, community-led homestays in Himachal, wellness retreats in Rishikesh, and combinations of technology and authenticity to cater to young travelers who want experiences that emulate just as much travel.

    In the restyling of Indian tourism, Millennials and Gen Z have demonstrated that travel is no longer merely about destinations, but intent and experience. Their selected offbeat locations, sustainable accommodations, and tech-enabled personalized experiences indicate a trend towards mindful travel. This new traveler is not only re-structuring India’s travel offerings, they are revolutionizing what a travel story looks like in India.


    The Evolution of Destination Management: How India’s Travel Industry is Adapting to Bespoke Experiences
    Explore how India’s travel industry is evolving to offer bespoke, personalized experiences. Learn how destination management is adapting to changing traveler expectations.


  • Daily Indian Funding Roundup & Key News – 3rd October 2025: Art of Time Secures INR 175 Cr, IOC GPS Renewables Raises INR 836 Cr, Zomato Parent Grants ESOPs & Google Layoffs

    India’s business and startup ecosystem witnessed notable developments on 3rd October 2025. Luxury watch retailer Art of Time secured fresh capital to expand its presence, while IOC GPS Renewables raised significant debt funding to accelerate its clean energy projects. On the corporate front, Zomato’s parent Eternal rolled out substantial ESOP grants for employees, and Google announced layoffs impacting over 100 design roles amid its AI-driven restructuring.

    Daily Indian Funding Roundup – 3rd October 2025

    Company Amount Round / Instrument Lead investor(s) / Lenders Sector / Use case
    Art of Time INR 175 crore Series B Mithun Sacheti, Siddhartha Sacheti, Plutus Wealth, Girish Mathrubootham Luxury watch retail / omnichannel
    IOC GPS Renewables (JV with IndianOil) INR 836 crore Debt financing Indian Bank Clean energy / compressed biogas (CBG)

    Art of Time raises INR 175 crore in Series B funding

    Luxury watch retailer Art of Time has raised INR 175 crore in a Series B round led by existing investors including Mithun Sacheti (CaratLane), Siddhartha Sacheti, Plutus Wealth, and Girish Mathrubootham. The funds will be used to expand its retail presence, invest in inventory & technology, grow its team, and launch a new multi-brand concept “Circa” to target the bridge-to-luxury segment.

    Indian Oil–GPS Renewables JV raises INR 836 crore in debt funding

    IOC GPS Renewables (a joint venture between IndianOil and GPS Renewables) has secured INR 836 crore in debt financing from Indian Bank to develop 9 Compressed Biogas (CBG) plants across several states. The funding will be used to build CBG plants (each ~15 tonnes/day) in states like Haryana, UP, Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh, expected to be commissioned in 2026.

    Key Business News for 3rd October 2025

    Eternal (Zomato’s parent) grants INR 211 crore worth of ESOPs to employees

    Eternal, the parent company of Zomato, has approved stock options valued at INR 211 crore under its ESOP plans to eligible employees. This grant is intended to reward, retain, and incentivize employees across its businesses, strengthening long-term commitment within the company.

    Google lays off over 100 design roles amid AI-led restructuring

    Google has eliminated more than 100 design and UX roles in its Cloud division, affecting teams in quantitative UX, platform & service experience, and related functions. The layoffs are part of a broader organizational shift as Google reallocates resources toward AI development, streamlines operations, and reduces non-core roles in its design and research verticals.


    Daily Indian Funding Roundup & Key News – 1st October 2025
    India’s startup and business landscape remains vibrant with significant funding rounds, upcoming IPOs, and innovative initiatives shaping various sectors.


  • Perplexity’s Comet Goes Free: Here’s What You Can Expect

    Perplexity wants to reach everyone. It has made its AI browser, Comet, free to use now (from October 2, 2025). The tool was made available in July. And, back then, Comet was a $200/month tool for elite users. As the waitlist of 460,000 people grew into a million, the company made the tool free. So, what do you get for free? What happens to the Comet Plus users now that the tool is free? For all who learn more.

    Image Credits - Perplexity
    Image Credits – Perplexity

    What Is “Comet”?

    It’s Perplexity’s AI-powered web browser that can:

    • Search the web for you.
    • Write emails (clear and detailed).
    • Summarise content.

    So, it’s AI + Browser.

    What About Comet Plus?

    In August, Perplexity announced a paid version of the tool, called Comet Plus.

    • Now that it’s free, users can still upgrade to Comet Plus for $ 5 per month.
    • However, if you are an existing Pro or Max plan user, you get Comet Plus for free.

    What Makes Comet Plus Special?

    Perplexity wants to compete with Apple News, and to do that, it partnered with major publishers like:

    • CNN
    • Condé Nast
    • The Washington Post
    • Los Angeles Times
    • Fortune
    • Le Monde
    • Le Figaro

    So, the users get their hands on premium, trustworthy news sources directly inside Comet Plus.

    New Feature: Background Assistant

    • Perplexity also introduced a new feature called the Background Assistant.
    • This assistant can access multiple apps and still continue your work on tasks even when you’re not there.
    • For instance, the assistant can handle emails, do research, or run tasks all at the same time when you’re away.

    Why Is Comet Made Free Now Only?

    Perplexity is not alone. Several other companies are getting into the space. So, the AI browser market is heating up.

    Because recently:

    • On September 30, 2025, Opera launched its AI browser called Neon. The browser can run code and do tasks at the same time.
    • On the other hand, OpenAI is developing an AI browser soon.
    • So, Perplexity wants to keep its users on its AI browser, Comet, only.

    Comparison of Comet, Opera Neon, and the Rumoured OpenAI Browser

    Feature / Aspect

    Comet (Perplexity)

    Opera Neon

    OpenAI’s upcoming browser

    Purpose/vision

    An AI browser that helps you search, read, summarise, and do tasks, with AI built in deeply. 

    A browser designed to act as an “agent,” meaning it will help you do things on your behalf in the browser itself. 

    It integrates AI (especially ChatGPT/agent technology) into the browser, meaning it will turn browsing and AI chatting into one seamless experience, automating tasks. 

    Current availability/cost

    Now the browser is free for everyone. The “Comet Plus” upgrade costs $5/month for free users and is free for Pro and Max users. 

    Currently being rolled out as a subscription product. It costs around $19.90/month for early users. 

    Not released yet. According to reports, it is expected to be released in a few weeks.  

    How “agentic” it is 

    Moderately “agentic.” It helps with summarising pages, research, etc. It’s more assistant-style than fully autonomous. 

    It has more strongly agentic features, such as ‘Do mode’ (which lets it navigate, fill forms, and book things on your behalf) and Make mode (which allows it to build websites or apps), which are central. 

    Expected to use OpenAI’s “agents” under the hood to do your web tasks automatically. 

    How tasks are executed (locally vs cloud/privacy risks)

    A mix of both. Some parts may run in the cloud or on remote servers (for burdensome tasks).

    Claims to perform many tasks locally in the browser (meaning the browser won’t send your data to the cloud) when possible, enhancing privacy. 

    It’s unclear exactly how much is local vs remote. However, it will more likely utilise cloud servers for heavy tasks, while also attempting to integrate safe local operations. 

    Strengths

    •It’s already live and tested.

    • Free for all, which lowers the barrier overall.

    • It has ties to existing Perplexity AI/search tools.

    • More aggressive in automating work.

    • Strong in “doing things for you” (filling forms, booking).

    • Local-first approach (first is privacy).

    • Deep integration of ChatGPT / OpenAI’s agent tech.

    • Can combine “conversational + browsing” closely.

    Perplexity Comet AI Browser Rolls Out in India for Windows and Mac Users
    Perplexity has rolled out its Comet AI browser in India for Pro users on Windows and Mac. The Chromium-based browser features an AI assistant for summaries, workspaces, and automation, marking a key step in India’s AI-driven browsing market.

  • MSRTC Unveils ‘Aapli ST’ App to Track Live Bus Locations, Check Timings & Book Tickets Easily

    ‘Aapli ST’ is a new mobile application that the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has released to let people commute more conveniently and easily. The software helps commuters avoid lengthy waits at bus stops by providing real-time bus location information.

    The app’s Passenger Information System (PIS) now allows users to view real-time bus changes. By displaying each bus’s scheduled departure time (STD) and estimated arrival time (ETA), passengers can more precisely plan when to arrive at the bus stop.

    Key Highlights of Aapli ST

    By entering the bus number or ticket number, users may track buses, check schedules between two locations, and locate the closest bus stop with the app. Passengers who purchase their tickets in advance will find this extremely helpful. Because passengers can get to the stop right before the bus arrives, this technique will help cut down on needless waiting periods, according to an MSRTC spokesperson.

    The ‘Aapli ST’ app is accessible to users of both Android and iPhone. Currently available for download from the Play Store as the “MSRTC Commuter App”, it will soon be available on app stores as “Aapli ST”. The software has scheduling and monitoring capabilities as well as an emergency contact list. With just one click, passengers can dial these numbers, adding an extra degree of security to their trip.

    MSRTC Planning to Add More Features to Aapli ST

    In order to facilitate bus tracking for passengers who reserve seats, MSRTC is also planning to integrate live tracking with its ticket booking system. More dependable and transparent service will be possible with this update. On the festival of Dussehra, State Transport Minister and MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik formally unveiled the app.

    The software was created with assistance from Rozmalta Autotech Ltd and presently tracks more than 12,000 buses on more than 1 lakh routes throughout Maharashtra. In the near future, MSRTC intends to add all of its buses to the app’s coverage. Passengers were encouraged by Minister Sarnaik to provide comments and report any technical difficulties with the app. According to him, the software will be improved based on user feedback to increase its efficacy.

    Quick Shots

    •Aapli ST provides live bus locations, STD
    (scheduled departure), and ETA (estimated arrival) to help plan travel.

    •Aapli shows real-time updates and route details to
    reduce waiting times at bus stops.

    •MSRTC plans to connect live tracking with the
    booking system for smoother travel experience.

    •Available on Android and iOS (currently listed as
    “MSRTC Commuter App”, soon as “Aapli ST”).

    More features to be added based on passenger
    feedback to improve functionality and reliability.

     

  • Shah Rukh Khan Becomes Bollywood’s Richest Star, Joins Billionaire Club in Hurun India Rich List 2025

    In a landmark shift in India’s entertainment and wealth scene, Shah Rukh Khan has officially entered the billionaire club, becoming the richest actor ever recorded in the Hurun India Rich List 2025. Meanwhile, in the broader Indian context, Mukesh Ambani has reclaimed the top spot as the country’s richest individual.

    Landmark Entry for Bollywood

    As per the Hurun India Rich List 2025, Shah Rukh Khan’s net worth is estimated at ₹12,490 crore, putting him squarely in the billionaire bracket for the first time. His wealth derives not only from box-office earnings but also from his business ventures, including Red Chillies Entertainment and his stake in the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) IPL franchise.

    This milestone marks the first time any Bollywood actor has broken the billion-rupee mark in the Hurun listing. Warner­, in recent years, the Forbes Celebrity 100 list already pegged Khan among India’s highest earners, but this is his boldest financial acknowledgement to date.

    Bollywood’s Wealth League

    Alongside Khan, other film personalities have featured prominently in the Hurun list:

    • Juhi Chawla and family: Holding a net worth of ₹7,790 crore, Chawla has been dubbed India’s richest actress in 2025. Her wealth is largely tied to her stake in KKR and other businesses.
    • Hrithik Roshan: With diversified interests including his HRX fitness brand, his net worth is estimated at around ₹2,160 crore.
    • Karan Johar: His production house and other investments place him at ₹1,880 crore.
    • Amitabh Bachchan: Making his debut on the 2025 list, the iconic actor’s assets (film productions, real estate) are valued at ₹1,630 crore.

    Combined, these top five Bollywood personalities have a combined wealth of approximately ₹25,950 crore. Notably, prominent stars such as Salman Khan and Deepika Padukone did not make it to the top five in this ranking.

    Indian Wealth Rankings: Ambani Leads Again

    While celebrities are making headway, India’s overall wealth hierarchy continues to be dominated by industrial and business titans. Mukesh Ambani and his family have reclaimed the top position in the Hurun India Rich List 2025, with estimated assets worth ₹9.55 lakh crore, overtaking Gautam Adani and family.

    Gautam Adani and his family follow in second place with a worth of ₹8.15 lakh crore. Additionally, Roshni Nadar Malhotra has risen into the top three, estimated at ₹2.84 lakh crore, making her India’s wealthiest woman in this survey.

    The Hurun 2025 edition also spotlights a fresh wave of millionaires and billionaires from tech start-ups, including Aravind Srinivas (founder of Perplexity AI), Kaivalya Vohra and Aadit Palicha (co-founders of Zepto), among others. The list notes that over 1,687 individuals now possess net worths of at least ₹1,000 crore, an increase over previous years.

    What It Signifies

    The entry of Shah Rukh Khan into the billionaire ranks is not just a personal milestone. It shows how entertainment, branding, and strategic investment are increasingly blurring boundaries with mainstream business. His transformation from superstar actor to industrial-scale brand mirrors a broader shift: Bollywood is now a legitimate player in the realm of large-scale enterprise.

    Yet, despite this symbolic breakthrough, top industrialists continue to command India’s wealth scale. Still, for a film star to match business magnates in net worth signals changing dynamics in how wealth is created and perceived in India today.


    List of Brands Endorsed By Shah Rukh Khan as Brand Ambassador
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  • Ivana Jewels Brings Mouni Roy on Board as Its Brand Ambassador; Launches Its First TVC

    Actress and Entrepreneur Mouni Roy has been announced as the brand ambassador of Ivana Jewels, one of India’s fastest-growing lab-grown diamond jewellery brands. To mark this association, the brand has launched its first television commercial, featuring the actress. The campaign carries the message – “See it. Wear it. Believe it”, showing Ivana’s aim to make jewellery more about style, confidence, and self-expression.

    The TVC moves away from the usual claims about lab-grown diamonds and instead, focuses on details that customers really look for today – design, individuality, and the joy of wearing jewellery that feels personal. Shot in a behind-the-scenes format, the TVC features Mouni Roy refusing scripted lines and inviting people to “see for yourself,” highlighting Ivana’s craftsmanship and customer-first approach.

    Commenting on the association, Ayushi Jindal, Co-founder of Ivana Jewels, said, “Mouni Roy represents the modern woman who values authenticity and individuality, which are also the values at the heart of Ivana Jewels,” said the brand spokesperson. “With this campaign, we want to focus on what matters to customers: jewellery that feels personal and is easy to wear. Mouni’s journey from television to films reflects the confidence and style our brand stands for, making her the right choice as we expand across India.”

    This collaboration aims to connect with a new generation of jewellery buyers who value individuality over convention. With Mouni as the face of the campaign, the brand bridges glamour with authenticity, ensuring the message resonates with both aspirational and everyday consumers.

    Sharing her excitement, Mouni Roy said, “I’m truly excited to join hands with Ivana Jewels as their brand ambassador. What I love about Ivana is how their jewellery is designed to feel personal and real, not just for special occasions but as a part of everyday style. Each piece allows you to express your individuality while enjoying the beauty and craftsmanship that goes into it. This campaign is all about celebrating confidence, authenticity, and the joy of wearing jewellery that truly belongs to you, and I’m proud to be part of this journey.”

    Surat-based lab-grown diamond and Polki jewellery brand IVANA Jewels is actively expanding its presence across India while strengthening its business with a wider product range, enhanced customisation, and personalised services. With lab-grown diamonds increasingly being adopted by modern buyers, IVANA is tapping into this trend by offering jewellery that combines innovation, design, and accessibility, while connecting with customers who value individuality and sustainable style.