Category: Business

Mumbai, Feb 27: The House of Abhinandan Lodha (HoABL), India’s largest branded land developer, announced Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan as the face of HoABL Nagpur Marina, its marquee waterfront plotted development in Nagpur.

Kartik Aaryan’s relationship with HoABL began as an investor, with his purchase of a 2000 sq ft plot at the Sol-de-Alibaug project. This trust-led relationship has now naturally evolved into Kartik endorsing Nagpur Marina based on his conviction in HoABL’s transparency in processes, proven track-record in quality and timelines, consumer-centricity, and long-term vision.

“I am excited to be associated with HoABL as the brand ambassador for its prestigious project – Nagpur Marina. Land is the most enduring form of legacy, and HoABL approaches it with transparency and convenience. What drew me to the brand was its clarity of vision, disciplined execution, and a seamless digital experience, especially for someone like me who is constantly on the move”, said Kartik Aaryan.

Nagpur Marina is an exclusive waterfront plotted development in South Nagpur, envisioned as an international lifestyle enclave. Spanning a 78-acre branded land development, the project is anchored by a 2.91-acre man-made sea and beach at its core, complimented by a 28,000 sq.ft. Grand Marina Clubhouse and thoughtfully curated range of lifestyle amenities.

Designed as a limited, destination-grade address for long-horizon investors, Nagpur Marina’s scale, scarcity, and legacy value have already attracted strong HNI participation, with over 350 families from more than 10 countries investing in the project.

Samujjwal Ghosh, Chief Executive Officer, The House of Abhinandan Lodha said, “Kartik’s association with us began as an investment decision, which is the strongest vote of confidence any brand can earn. His decision to now be the face of Nagpur Marina reflects the values we focus on every day – trust, transparency, and building assets designed to endure. Waterfront-led and thoughtfully planned, Nagpur Marina is a unique address, and we are excited to have Kartik represent that story.”

Strategically located next to the Samruddhi Expressway and the New Nagpur IBFC, Nagpur Marina offers a rare opportunity to own plotted land in Nagpur, designed for discerning, long-term investors.

Mumbai, Feb 26: As Indian consumers increasingly gravitate towards premium, performance-led beauty solutions backed by credibility and consistency, Oriflame, the Swedish holistic beauty and wellbeing brand, has announced actor Karishma Tanna as the face of its NovAge+ advanced skincare range and Supreme Tribute Ezzénza fragrance. The association underscores Oriflame’s focus on strengthening its premium skincare and fragrance portfolio in India.

 

Developed at Oriflame’s Skin Research Institute in Sweden, NovAge+ is built on a portfolio of patented skin technologies that address multiple signs of ageing. These include Bio Aspartolift, designed to support collagen and elastin production to improve firmness; Oripeptide-3, a natural origin peptide technology that helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles; Bio Lumilock, which works on uneven skin tone and pigmentation; and Bio Re:Barrier, developed to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier. Clinical testing on the NovAge+ range shows visible improvements in skin smoothness, radiance, and firmness within two weeks of consistent use, while supporting long-term skin resilience over time.

The NovAge+ range is designed as a four-step skincare routine including cleanse, eye care, targeted boosters, and moisturisation, complemented by intensive treatment capsules and rejuvenating masks, allowing the patented technologies to work in synergy across skin concerns such as firmness, radiance, wrinkles, and barrier repair.

Alongside skincare, Supreme Tribute Ezzénza represents Oriflame’s premium fragrance offering. Crafted as a long-lasting parfum with an elegant ambery-floral profile, the fragrance is positioned as an expression of sophistication and confidence, reinforcing Oriflame’s sensorial storytelling within the premium fragrance category.

Actress Karishma Tanna, known for her work across television and digital entertainment and winner of the Bigg Boss 8 title, brings contemporary relevance and credibility to the collaboration. Her association reflects Oriflame’s intent to connect with consumers who value authenticity, consistency, and a balanced approach to beauty and self-care.

Commenting on the collaboration, Abhishek Chakraborty, Head of Brand Communication, Digital, and PR, Oriflame India, said,

 “Skincare and wellness continues to be a strategic focus for Oriflame, particularly in the premium segment where consumers are seeking solutions that are both effective and thoughtfully formulated. NovAge+ represents our strongest science-led skincare credentials, while Supreme Tribute Ezzénza reflects the sensorial side of our portfolio. Karishma’s association brings credibility and modern relevance to these ranges, aligning well with our long-term vision for the brand in India”

Sharing her perspective, Karishma Tanna said

“I have always believed that skincare is about consistency and choosing products that work with your skin over time. NovAge+ fits naturally into my routine because it is rooted in research and designed for long-term skin health. Supreme Tribute Ezzénza complements that experience, offering a sense of quiet confidence and personal expression. Oriflame’s approach to beauty resonates with how I view self-care today.”

The NovAge+ skincare range is anchored by its complete routine sets, priced at INR 13,500, designed as a comprehensive regimen delivering targeted results across key skin concerns, while Supreme Tribute Ezzénza is priced at INR 3,419. Both are available on in.oriflame.com, and through Oriflame’s network of brand partners.

Through this collaboration, Oriflame continues to strengthen its premium skincare and fragrance narrative in India, balancing science-led innovation with sensorial appeal while responding to evolving consumer expectations around trust, efficacy, and elevated beauty experiences

Mumbai, Feb 26: As Mumbai’s real estate landscape continues to evolve, 2026 is shaping up as a pivotal year for property investors, with infrastructure-led growth, enhanced connectivity, and lifestyle-oriented developments driving demand across key micro-markets. From emerging plotted destinations to established luxury corridors, several locations are emerging as strong investment bets for the year ahead.

Key Micro-Markets to Watch in 2026:

• Chembur: The Next Commercial and Luxury Hub
  Chembur is rapidly transforming into a premium commercial and mixed-use corridor. Experts note that its strategic connectivity via the Eastern Express Highway, Eastern Freeway, Navi Mumbai, and MTHL is attracting corporate and residential interest. Luxury developments, particularly golf-course-facing residences, are gaining traction, offering unobstructed green views and strong long-term value.

• Mulund: Accessibility and Infrastructure Driving Growth
  Mulund’s appeal is being redefined by improved east–west accessibility, with projects like GMLR One and upcoming metro connectivity enhancing connectivity to Thane, Navi Mumbai, and the Eastern Express Highway. The micro-market is emerging as a high-potential growth corridor for both end-users and investors.

• Panvel: Infrastructure-Led Investment Opportunities
  Panvel has evolved into a self-sustained urban destination. Large-scale projects including MTHL, Navi Mumbai International Airport, and Metro Line 8 are driving growth, while integrated townships with expansive green spaces, scenic hill views, and lifestyle amenities are attracting long-term investors.

• Karjat: Nature-Centric Plotted Developments
  Karjat is gaining prominence as a lifestyle-led investment destination, with increasing demand for plotted developments offering low-density living and ownership flexibility. Improved road and rail connectivity, combined with lush green surroundings, is positioning Karjat as a high-value investment option on Mumbai’s periphery.

• Malad: Luxury Living with Seamless Connectivity
  Malad continues to be a preferred luxury residential destination, balancing premium living with easy access to the Western Express Highway, metro network, and both domestic and international airports. Strong demand from end-users and investors is driving growth in this micro-market.

• Goregaon: Mature Luxury Residential Hub
  Goregaon has consolidated its position as a premium residential market, supported by metro connectivity, proximity to key highways, and upcoming infrastructure such as the coastal road. Limited land availability and rising demand for high-quality developments make it an attractive option for capital appreciation and rental yield.

Outlook for 2026
With infrastructure as the primary growth catalyst and buyers increasingly valuing quality, connectivity, and lifestyle features, these micro-markets are poised to deliver strong returns. For investors aiming to capitalize on Mumbai’s next phase of real estate growth, Chembur, Mulund, Panvel, Karjat, Malad, and Goregaon present compelling opportunities combining stability, lifestyle appeal, and long-term value creation.

Venezuela Advance Practical Trade and Investment CooperationThe African Energy Chamber’s delegation to Caracas advanced cooperation with Venezuelan authorities on expanding trade beyond energy, addressing regulatory bottlenecks and promoting reciprocal investment across the Global South

CARACAS, Venezuela, Feb 26:A high-level working visit to Caracas by the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org) this February marked a significant step in strengthening Africa–Venezuela cooperation, moving engagement beyond hydrocarbons toward broader South–South trade and investment opportunities. The discussions focused on removing longstanding transactional bottlenecks and boosting bilateral trade in goods, services and industrial collaboration.

Leading discussions with Coromoto Godoy Calderón, Minister of Foreign Trade of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, the AEC delegation explored strategies to expand African markets for Venezuelan goods while facilitating reciprocal African investment in Venezuela. The visit emphasized creating a comprehensive framework for trade that extends beyond oil and gas, promoting manufactured goods, services and skills exchange.

“Together with the Minister, we discussed opening up African markets on a Global South–South strategy,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “A priority is working on Venezuelan goods in Africa – not just energy. We are committed to removing bottlenecks, improving regulations and building a framework that accelerates trade and development between our regions.”

The visit also addressed potential alignment with the African Continental Free Trade Area, signaling new pathways for Venezuelan products to access African markets under continental trade frameworks. This reflects a growing interest in integrated commercial engagement that leverages shared resources and strengthens economic ties between African nations and Venezuela.

Institutional cooperation was another key focus. The AEC and Venezuelan authorities agreed on the importance of sharing best practices to position Venezuela as an attractive partner for African investors. Programs are being developed to promote Venezuelan products in African markets while encouraging investment in Venezuela’s broader non-oil economy.

Financial collaboration is central to this strategy. The delegation met with the Venezuelan Export–Import Bank to explore partnerships with African regional development banks and export finance institutions. These initiatives aim to facilitate trade finance, streamline payments and reduce transaction risks, providing a clearer, bankable framework for industrial and commercial projects.

Both sides pledged to showcase Venezuela in key African trade platforms, including the Intra-African Trade Fair organized by Afreximbank, and African Energy Week 2026, where Venezuelan products and expertise can be highlighted. Capacity-building workshops are planned to strengthen skills and technical exchange, reinforcing long-term trade and industrial collaboration.

The working visit marks a shift from energy-centered engagement to a broader, market-oriented partnership. By addressing regulatory challenges, expanding institutional cooperation and promoting trade-enabling frameworks, Africa and Venezuela are laying the foundations for reciprocal investment, industrial growth and deeper integration across the Global South.

“Our focus is on enabling trade that drives development. By working together to break down bottlenecks and expand commercial exchange, we are helping to shape a future in which African and Venezuelan economies grow stronger through partnership – not just in energy, but across the full spectrum of goods, services and investment,” Ayuk added.

Vapi, Feb 26: Arete Group has announced the launch of Riverscape, a luxury villa development in Tukwada, Vapi, Gujarat. The launch marks its strategic expansion in South Gujarat’s emerging premium residential market.

Set along the serene banks of the Kolak River, Riverscape redefines community living and presents 196 exclusive 4 and 5-BHK bespoke villas featuring 12-foot ceilings, double-height courtyards, abundant natural light, seamless indoor-outdoor flow, and smart, breathable layouts that deliver spacious, modern homes immersed in nature. Strategically located just 1 minute from NH-48, 10 minutes from Vapi Railway Station and Daman, and close to Surat Airport. With top hospitals, schools, beaches, and heritage sites nearby

Spread across 17.6 acres, Arete Riverscape is a gated community where privacy meets connection. Thoughtfully designed river-facing zones, greens, and social hubs foster shared experiences, while over 40 curated amenities yoga and meditation areas, sports courts, pools, children’s play zones, and serene reflection spaces, cater to every lifestyle and age. With homes and common areas crafted for comfort and lasting relationships, Riverscape offers a vibrant, resilient community built for belonging, engagement and memorable living.

Virender Kumar, VP – Marketing, Arete Group said,

“With Riverscape, we are redefining luxury living with a riverfront villa community that aligns with the aspirations of business families and professionals seeking greater space and privacy to create lasting experiences for every generation. Our focus remains on creating integrated developments in high-growth corridors backed by strong connectivity fundamentals.”

At Riverscape, community is the foundation, thoughtfully designed as a low-density, people-first neighborhood where open green spaces, landscaped courtyards, and shared social zones encourage natural interaction while preserving privacy. Envisioned as a multi-generational environment, it brings together children’s play areas, sports courts, meditation corners, and social lawns to create meaningful connections across age groups. Here, everyday moments turn into shared memories, families grow together, and a vibrant, future-ready community thrives in a true sense of belonging.

The launch aligns with South Gujarat’s rising demand for organized, large format villa communities, fueled by higher incomes, industrial expansion, and improved connectivity. With 38% of the Delhi–Mumbai Industrial Corridor in Gujarat, upcoming investment regions and landmark projects like the Mumbai–Ahmedabad Bullet Train, Vadodara–Mumbai Expressway, and Surat Airport expansion, the region is fast-tracking its 2047 global economic ambition.

The 150,000 sqm facility will establish operations for storage and distribution of heavy machinery and industrial equipment in KEZAD – Abu Dhabi

 

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Feb 26: Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi – KEZAD Group, one of the largest operators of integrated and purpose-built economic zones in the region and Galadari Brothers’ Heavy Equipment Division have signed a 50-year land lease agreement for the establishment of a state-of-the-art facility in KEZAD A (KEZAD Al Ma’mourah).

 

Galadari is investing AED 75 million in the proposed 150,000 sqm facility that will establish operations for storage and distribution of heavy machinery and industrial equipment in the region. The group’s Heavy Equipment Division is a leading dealer and distributor of commercial vehicles and specialised construction machinery from international brands in the UAE. Headquartered in Dubai, Galadari Brothers is a diversified conglomerate with a legacy spanning more than 60 years and a presence across multiple sectors and international markets.

 

Since its inception more than four decades ago, the Heavy Equipment Division of Galadari has grown from being a single-product distributor to steadily build an expansive product portfolio constituting a wide range of construction equipment. The move to KEZAD comes as part of Galadari’s strategic plans to expand its business in the region, and its commitment to delivering excellence in services by joining a thriving economic zone with dedicated industrial clusters and practices.

 

Mohamed Al Khadar Al Ahmed, CEO, Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi – KEZAD Group said: “We welcome Galadari Brothers to KEZAD, and look forward to a fruitful partnership, as we support them in expanding their foothold in the region with our tailored services. By being in KEZAD, Galadari organically becomes an integral part of a cohesive industrial structure, designed for innovation, collaboration and delivery of outstanding services.

 

“As we continue on our growth path, we are hopeful that this association will be mutually beneficial for business – contributing to the growth of Galadari as well as the economic development of Abu Dhabi.”

 

Mohammed Galadari, Co-Chairman and Group CEO of Galadari Brothers said: “The establishment of this facility marks a significant step in advancing Galadari Brothers’ Heavy Equipment capabilities and scaling our operational infrastructure in the UAE. Located within KEZAD’s integrated industrial ecosystem, the facility enhances our ability to support large-scale projects while strengthening the logistics and supply chain networks that underpin regional growth. This investment reflects our long-term confidence in the UAE’s vision for economic diversification and industrial advancement while reinforcing our commitment to delivering the capacity, reliability, and expertise required to serve a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.”

All 558 townhouse plots snapped up in six months, underscoring strong demand for luxury residential land in Dubai

 

Dubai, UAE, Feb 26: The first phase of Keturah Ardh, Dubai’s first heritage-wellness integrated luxury community, has sold out, with all 558 luxury townhouse plots acquired in just six months for AED1 billion. 

fäm Properties, the exclusive master agency for master developer MAG Group, today confirmed the milestone, which reflects solid demand for premium residential land in Dubai, particularly freehold townhouse plots, one of the most limited and sought-after asset classes in the city’s luxury market. 

“The sellout speaks for itself,” said Firas Al Msaddi, CEO of fäm Properties. “Residential plots with approvals for luxury townhouses are among the scarcest product types in Dubai, and buyers and investors responded accordingly.” 

“True heritage-wellness communities are rare, and over the past four years, this segment has consistently led the market in both performance and investor interest.” 

Located in the Al Rowaiyah First District, Keturah Ardh brings together traditional Arabic architectural principles with a fully integrated modern wellness approach. The 558 luxury townhouse plots are spread across 93 meticulously planned clusters, and phase one was brought to market with attractive payment plans. 

The broader master plan blends Arabic heritage with advanced wellness concepts to create a self-contained lifestyle community. The name ‘Ardh,’ meaning ‘earth’ or ‘land’ in Arabic, reflects its ties to culture and nature. 

The project reflects MAG Group’s 45-year dedication to quality and innovation, with amenities including spa and sauna facilities, yoga and pilates areas, running and cycling tracks, and extensive green spaces. Mature landscaping includes trees sourced from Italy, Spain, Thailand, and Africa. 

Infrastructure is being delivered in Q1 2026, with construction starting in Q4 2026, and full completion expected by 2030. 

Keturah Ardh is the fourth major project in the Keturah luxury portfolio, following Keturah Reserve, Keturah Resort: The Ritz-Carlton Residences at Al Jaddaf, and Keturah Bahar.

Zomato and Blinkit Host Third Edition of ‘Powering Inclusive Growth’ Conference in Collaboration with Startup India and DPIIT – Puts Gig Economy’s Wellbeing and Inclusion at Centre Stage

New Delhi, Feb 26: Eternal companies, Zomato and Blinkit, in collaboration with Startup India, DPIIT, hosted the third edition of ‘Powering Inclusive Growth: Role of Platforms’ Conference in New Delhi. The conference brought together senior policymakers, leading platforms, civil society organizations, academic institutions and innovators who engaged in panel discussions around co-developing actionable pathways for strengthening the wellbeing of India’s platform workforce.

Notable dignitaries who attended the conference included Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Hon’ble Minister, Ministry of Labour and Employment, and Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, as Chief Guest, who delivered the keynote address. Dr. Shamika Ravi, Member, Economic Advisory Council to The Prime Minister, Ms. Manmeet Kaur Nanda, Additional Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, and Shri Randip Singh Jagpal, Whole Time Member (Law), Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority, joined as Guests of Honor and also addressed the gathering.

The Chief Guest for the Conference, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister, Ministry of Labour and Employment, and Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, commented,

“It is encouraging to see industry leaders, innovators and platforms come together to advance delivery worker wellbeing. Platform-based work has opened new avenues of opportunity for millions across the country. The responsibility now is to ensure that this growth is accompanied by robust safeguards and access to social security. While platforms continue to proactively invest in delivery worker wellbeing, such efforts will be strengthened further through constructive engagement and policy support. We encourage platforms to register themselves and their platform workers on the E-Shram portal and to proactively invest in the wellbeing of delivery workers.”

Guest of Honor, Ms. Manmeet Kaur Nanda, Additional Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities added,

“True inclusion is measured by economic empowerment, and accessibility must be its foundation, a universal design principle, never an afterthought. We are calling on all corporate organisations to commit to meaningful PwD hiring within the next one to two years and ensure real representation within their diversity goals. The inclusion gap must be closed across entire platforms and workplaces, and the department stands ready to support this effort. We commend Zomato and Blinkit for setting a strong benchmark, from rigorous skill assessments and accessible interfaces to onboarding single mothers, demonstrating what genuine commitment to worker wellbeing and inclusive growth looks like. Together, we can build a more equitable economy.”

The conference also witnessed an opening address by Aditya Mangla, CEO, Zomato and an address by Anjalli Ravi Kumar, Chief Sustainability Officer, Eternal.

Commenting on the Conference, Aditya Mangla, Chief Executive Officer, Zomato, said,

“Delivery partners are the backbone of the platform economy and of our businesses. Investing in their wellbeing is fundamental to our growth. The gig economy has created flexible, meaningful livelihood opportunities at scale. Ensuring financial security, healthcare access and long-term opportunity is essential to strengthening this model. That is the standard we are building toward.”

Anjalli Ravi Kumar, Chief Sustainability Officer, Eternal, said,

 “With every edition of this Conference, the dialogue has become more focused and action-oriented. In our third year, we chose to center the conversation on health, safety and financial inclusion, areas that directly shape the everyday realities of delivery partners. Sustained progress requires both innovation and collaboration and that’s what this platform aims to spark.”

The first panel, Advancing Diversity, Safety and Inclusion in Platform Work, dove into how elements like strengthened safety measures, improved urban mobility conditions, expanding skilling opportunities and tech-enabled safeguards will help further inclusion and wellbeing of platform workers.

The speakers included Rameesh Kailasam, Chief Executive Officer, IndiaTech.Org, Sooraj Nair, Head – Safety Operations (India and South Asia), Uber, Indrajit Chaudhuri, CEO and Country Director, Project Concern International India, Mitali Nikore, Founder & Chief Economist, Nikore Associates and Aruna Shankari, Chief Operating Officer, IRF.

The second panel, Increasing Access to Financial Inclusion and Social Security Benefits for Platform Workers, explored how tech-led solutions and simplified access can help deepen the reach of existing initiatives like access to insurance, pension instruments and government welfare programs for delivery workers.

The speakers included Mayank Dias, Advocate, Michael Dias & Associates and Moderator, FICCI Taskforce for Platform Aggregators, Sriram Iyer, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, HDFC Pension Fund Management Limited, Bhavya Sharma, Senior Director – Corporate Communications and ESG, Urban Company, Aniket Doegar, Founder, Haqdarshak and Akshar Shah, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Fixerra.

The Conference also saw the release of a White Paper on Enhancing Women’s Participation in Urban Last-Mile Logistics. It was developed by a consortium comprising Nikore Associates, the Udaiti Foundation and the Confederation of Indian Industry – Centre for Women’s Leadership (CII-CWL), with inputs from Zomato and Blinkit. The paper highlights the significant opportunity that the urban last-mile logistics sector presents in contributing to India’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, particularly the goal of increasing women’s workforce participation to 70 percent.

The third edition of the Conference hosted two Platform Worker Wellbeing Challenges, inviting startups to pitch innovations across:

1. Health and Safety Solutions and Financial Inclusion Challenge, covering safety, mobility, health and wellness and gender-sensitive design for delivery workers
2. Financial Inclusion and Upskilling Solutions Challenge, covering access to welfare schemes, insurance and pension coverage, affordable credit and financial literacy for delivery workers

Out of 47 applications received from across the country, six startups were shortlisted from each category and presented their solutions to a jury featuring Aditya Shrivastav, Head of Logistics, Zomato, Yogindra Samant, Occupational Safety and Health Specialist, International Labour Organization, Snovi Khanna, Social Impact, India, Krishna Thacker, Senior Program Officer, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Vikram Jain, Managing Director, FSG, Anish Mehendiratta, Director of Operations, Blinkit and Jyoti Prakash, Zomato Delivery Partner and Abhishek Kumar, Blinkit Delivery Partner.

Zomato and Blinkit have a number of initiatives in place to facilitate delivery partners’ access to benefits like OPD treatments of up to INR 5,000, medical insurance of up to INR 1 lakh and accidental insurance up to INR 10 lakhs. Women delivery partners have access to maternity insurance and two days of paid period rest days every month, with visibility on order locations between 7 PM and 5 AM.

Through Blinkit’s Doctor@Store program, delivery partners, in-store staff and their families can avail free consultations and prescribed medicines on-site, with close to 1 lakh consultations recorded since its launch in January 2026. On the financial side, partners have access to tools for creating fixed and recurring deposits, tax return filing support and the option to create pension retirement accounts under the gig-variant National Pension Scheme, all accessible through their respective delivery partner apps.

Eternal Limited:

Founded in 2008, Eternal is India’s largest new-age tech organization by market capitalization and the first tech company to join the prestigious BSE Sensex 30-share index. Driven by its mission of powering India’s changing lifestyles, Eternal’s line of businesses are spread across diverse verticals, including food delivery (Zomato), quick commerce (Blinkit), going-out offerings (District), and B2B supplies (Hyperpure).

Built in India for India, Eternal generates millions of direct and indirect earning opportunities, fueling growth and innovation across the nation.

Gurgaon, Feb 26: HomeEssentials, India’s fastest-growing D2C brands for home and kitchen essentials, has raised a 70Cr in Pre-Series B funding round. The round was led by 360 ONE Asset, with participation from their existing investor – India Quotient. The capital infusion will primarily be directed towards expanding the company’s omnichannel presence and deepening its product portfolio in kitchen and home improvement.

Founded in 2024 by brothers Tanishq Jain and Divyam Jain in Gwalior, HomeEssentials has rapidly disrupted the unorganized home products market. The brand was born from a simple insight: Indian homes deserve functional, aesthetic, and affordable solutions that go beyond basic utility. With a “design-first” approach to everyday items—from airtight storage to ergonomic loose furniture Home Essentials is bridging the gap between expensive luxury brands and unbranded utility items and aspires to become a destination for all things home and kitchen.

In just under two years since inception, the company has grown from a small-town operation to a nationwide brand, serving over a million customers. Alongside the rapid growth, the brand has maintained strong unit economics with a focus on profitability. The company is also rapidly increasing its offline presence and plans to have 20 stores by this year spread across the country.

Mr. Sumit Jain, Senior Fund Manager, 360 ONE Asset

“HomeEssentials is redefining a large fragmented category with aesthetic and functional products, and are creating a leading home and kitchen destination-play in India. Tanishq and Divyam have demonstrated exceptional execution skills, building a capital-efficient business that resonates deeply with the aspirational Indian consumer. We are excited to become partners in their scaling journey, as they build India’s most loved Home & Kitchen brand.”

Madhukar Sinha , Partner , India Quotient

We backed HomeEssentials early on as Tanishq and Divyam identified a clear gap in the Indian market for home utilities that seamlessly blend smart functionality with premium aesthetics at affordable price. Their rapid growth speaks for itself. We are excited to see them leverage this new round to expand their catalogue and reach millions more customers across the country

Tanishq Jain, Co-Founder & CEO of Home Essentials, shared his excitement, 

“At HomeEssentials, our vision is to become the ultimate destination for thoughtfully designed home and kitchen essentials. The strong response to our experiential stores validates our belief that customers seek products that are both highly functional and beautifully crafted. With the continued support of India Quotient and the backing of 360 ONE Asset in this phase of growth, this capital enables us to expand from a strong online presence into thoughtfully designed physical stores across Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities, accelerating our journey to build a nationwide retail footprint.”

Divyam Jain, Co-Founder & CMO, added 

“Winning D2C plays in India are ones that not only have a deep understanding of the young consumer’s aspirational needs but also strong control over supply chain backend, omnichannel presence and razor sharp product experience. We want to be not only India’s most loved Home and Kitchen brand, but also an operating organization at the cutting edge of performance and efficiency – 360 One Asset and India Quotient are great partners in our journey of excellence.”

Feb, 26: BIG FM, largest single brand radio network in India hosted the 4th edition of BIG Impact Awards Mumbai. Celebrating most inspiring entrepreneurs, business leaders and changemakers under one roof, the event was held at Sahara Star, Mumbai. The event was graced by Chief Guests Ashish Shelar, Minister of Cultural Affairs, Government of Maharashtra and Ritu Rajesh Tawde, Mayor of Mumbai who felicitated the winners with the prestigious BIG Impact Trophy.

In line with its philosophy of recognizing conventional excellence while celebrating progressive impact, BIG Impact Awards 2026 have redefined traditional benchmarks of achievement. Curated by BIG FM, the awards honor the indomitable spirit of Mumbai, felicitating leaders who have not only built successful enterprises but have also contributed meaningfully to the city’s growth and community development. Spanning across multiple categories including Auto, Real Estate & Allied, Hospitality, Health & Wellness, Education, Fashion, Lifestyle and more, the BIG Impact Awards highlighted stories of determination and excellence across sectors.

Adding to the glamour and energy of the evening, the ceremony also saw the presence of noted personalities from the Indian entertainment industry including Boman Irani, Esha Deol, Chitrangada Singh, Rajat Bedi, Shehnaaz Gill, Medha Rana, Ashnoor Kaur, Rithvik Dhanjani, Nandish Kumar Sandhu, Harman Baweja, Vishal Jethwa, Shiv Thakare and many more. The show was hosted by BIG FM RJs- RJ Dilip, RJ Vrajesh, RJ Rani and RJ Sahil, who set the tone of the event.

Marking the occasion, BIG FM also launched Season 5 of its flagship IP, Main Bhi Finance Minister, with a compelling panel discussion featuring distinguished voices from across industries. The panel included Nidarshana Gowani, Anupama Agrawal, Vanita Keswani, Soumini Sridhara and Heli Daruwala who shared their insights on financial empowerment and wealth creation.

Speaking of the occasion, Ashit Kukian, CEO, BIG FM, shared,

“BIG Impact Awards reflects what drives cities like Mumbai, the power to create meaningful change. It is truly inspiring to witness the spirit of entrepreneurship and impact that this platform celebrates. We are proud to honour the businesses and changemakers who continue to push boundaries, create opportunities and contribute to the city’s growth. I congratulate all the winners and look forward to strengthening this platform across more cities in the coming year.”

The event was co-powered by LIC Housing Finance, Mahindra and Mahindra, joining as a Drive-in Partner, along with other sponsors. With Mumbai setting the tone for the year, the BIG Impact Awards will soon expand their footprint internationally to Malaysia. In the coming months, the awards will also travel to key Indian cities, including Bangalore, Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati and Kolhapur, further strengthening BIG FM’s commitment to celebrating impact-driven entrepreneurship across the country.