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Category: Awards & Recognition

  • Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan: 11 Years of Unmatched Hospitality and Service


    Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan

    Celebrating 11 Years of Excellence at Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan

    PUNE: The Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan recently marked its 11th anniversary with an exclusive event celebrating relaxation, recognition, and connection. This special evening, hosted at our hotel, we honored the valuable partners who have played a crucial role in our journey.

    The event was an honor to the collaborative efforts that have driven our success over the past decade. Guests were treated to a serene atmosphere, allowing them to connect, reflect, and celebrate our shared achievements and the evening featured exquisite culinary offerings, live entertainment, and heartfelt acknowledgments of the contributions that have shaped our success.

    As we celebrate this achievement, we reaffirm our commitment to excellence and innovation. We eagerly anticipate many more years of fruitful partnerships and shared growth. This milestone highlights our past accomplishments and underscores our dedication to future success.

    Thank you to everyone who has been part of this remarkable journey. Here’s to many more years of continued excellence!

  • ICRA Boosts Vedanta’s Credit Rating to AA


    Vedanta

    The rating upgrade reflects improvement in credit metrics, financial flexibility, and a calibrated approach toward capital deployment.

    The company has Rs 22,000 crore+ ($2.61 billion) war chest arising from cash reserves, dividends, and stake sales from its subsidiary.

    INDIA: ICRA has upgraded Vedanta Limited’s long-term credit rating to [ICRA]AA from [ICRA]AA-, reflecting the company’s strengthened credit profile. The short-term rating has also been reaffirmed at [ICRA]A1+.

    This upgrade comes amidst significant developments at Vedanta Group that focus on long-term strategic growth and financial strength. Vedanta Ltd. has built a war chest exceeding Rs 22,000 crore, comprising mainly of existing cash reserves, stake sales, and dividends from its subsidiary Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL). Over the past few quarters, Vedanta has deleveraged its balance sheet resulting in an improvement in the net debt to EBITDA ratio from 1.9X in Q1FY24 to 1.5X currently. Similarly, the mining major’s UK parent – Vedanta Resources Limited – has seen an improvement in the current group net debt to EBITDA 3.3X in FY20 to a current 2.2X.

    VRL is also actively pursuing to refinance a substantial portion of its outstanding bonds, aiming to lower the consolidated entity’s interest costs further. All the deleveraging efforts are also expected to improve the overall financial flexibility of the Group. Notably, in July 2024, S&P Global upgraded the VRL’s credit rating to B-/stable from CCC+.

    The Vedanta Group has some of the world’s largest mines in various categories. As per its annual report, it has the world’s largest underground zinc-lead mine in India’s western state of Rajasthan. Vedanta’s subsidiary – HZL – is the third largest producer of silver in the world, while its oil and gas unit operates the world’s longest continuously heated pipeline.

    Vedanta has recently gone through fundraising initiatives such as a Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP) worth approximately $1 billion and an additional ~ $400 million from the sale of Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL) shares. Furthermore, around $500 million raised by Vedanta Resources Limited (VRL) through a stake sale in VEDL in June 2024 will also aid in reducing the Group’s overall debt burden. This move is expected to improve the group’s leverage and lower its interest expenses, signaling a robust financial strategy focused on long-term stability and growth.

    In addition to these financial improvements, Vedanta’s operational performance has also been a key driver. The company has reported solid results, especially in its aluminum and zinc businesses, where improved realizations and cost efficiencies have led to strong operational performance.  They together contributed over 80% to consolidated OPBITDA in FY2024 and Q1 FY2025. The company recorded the highest-ever alumina production at Lanjigarh and mined metal products at the Zinc India unit. It brought down the overall cost of production by 20 percent YoY due to structural changes and other initiatives.  Lanjigarh has a capacity of 3.5 MTPA, which is one of the largest refineries in the world.

    Strategically, Vedanta continues to focus on strengthening its diverse portfolio. A key aspect of its strategy has been increasing the share of value-added products, particularly in the aluminum segment, which is expected to boost profitability and support long-term growth. The company’s efforts to streamline costs and focus on vertical integration will further contribute to improved margins and operational efficiency. The company’s investment in expanding its capacities and reducing operational costs ensures it is well-placed to maintain its market leadership.

    The company is on track with its demerger after receiving a no-objection certificate from secured lenders and the stock exchanges. It has already filed the scheme with the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).

    The de-merger, which is planned to be a simple vertical split, will enable value unlocking and attracting big-ticket investment into the expansion and growth of each of its demerged businesses. By further simplifying its corporate structure, the demerger will create sector-focused independent businesses that will provide investment opportunities to Indian and global investors, including sovereign wealth funds and strategic investors.

  • MCA Launches Architectural Design Competition for Gahunje Cricket Stadium’s International Club House


    Poster of Competition was unveiled on the occasion. From left Kamlesh Pisal, Rohit Pawar, Vikas Achalkar

    Partners with the Indian Institute of Architects, Pune Center to execute this competition

    PUNE: In a bid to expand the Cricket Stadium facility by accommodating an international clubhouse for providing the state-of-the-art infrastructure as per international standards to promote Cricket with training, fitness coaching, residential and other support facilities the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) is organizing an architectural design competition for professional architects, architectural firms and the students of the architecture in collaboration with the Indian Institute Architects, Pune Center.

    This was announced by Rohit Pawar, President of the Maharashtra Cricket Association during a Press Conference held at J W Marriott today. Kamlesh Pisal, Secretary MCA, Ar Vikas Achalkar, President, IIA Pune Center, and Ar Kapil Jain, EC Member of IIA Pune Center were present on the occasion.

    Commenting on the competition Rohit Pawar said, “We are happy to announce an architectural design competition in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Architects, Pune Centre that seeks to blend the passion for cricket with innovative architectural design. It is a unique opportunity for professionals and students alike to contribute to the vision of a world-class facility, which will serve as a beacon for the sport of cricket in the state of Maharashtra.”

    “Promoting Cricket as a global sporting event, expanding the existing facility for increased participation, integration of residential facilities, and most importantly making the MCA International Cricket Stadium at Gahunje a self-sustaining venue are the key objectives behind developing an international clubhouse and the competition being organized to get the best design for this project”, Pawar added.

    From left: Kapil Jain, Rohit Pawar, Vikas Achalkar and Kamlesh Pisal

    Ar Vikas Achalkar, President IIA, Pune Center said, “In this competition architects and students of architecture are invited to submit designs for the proposed international clubhouse adjoining the MCA Cricket Stadium at Gahunje, Pune. We are proposing an adequate number of rooms at this clubhouse which can be run by a reputed international hotel chain so that the players can stay there during the matches.”

    “Good accommodation at the stadium will save precious time for players and the support staff which is otherwise spent on travel from the city hotel to the venue on important days for the players. It will also reduce the burden on logistics and security. This will make MCA International Cricket Stadium the first stadium in the country to have world-class accommodation for the players”, Ar Achalkar stated.

    This open competition is divided into two parts including a ‘Single Stage Competition’ for professionals and the ‘Ideas Competition’ for the students of architecture. IIA Pune Center will shoulder the responsibility of designing and executing the competition along with the evaluation of entries received. Information about the competition is available on the MCA website.

    Registration for entering this competition can be done between September 10th and 30th, the designs submission process will take place between October 5th and December 14th, the presentation of shortlisted designs will take place between January 5th and 8th and the final result shall be declared on January 15th.

    The author of the winning design shall be appointed as the Project Architect to render architectural & other allied services for successful implementation. The International Club House project at the MCA International Cricket Stadium is proposed to have world-class rooms for the stay, banquet halls, a sports bar, restaurants, an ultramodern gym, a swimming pool,  indoor cricket pitches for the all-year-round practice, and many other sports with the indoor format.

    Details of the prizes of this competition are as follows

    For Professionals Rs.25 Lakhs, Rs.15 Lakhs and Rs.10 Lakhs would be the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd cash prize respectively. In addition, five merit prizes of Rs.3 Lakhs each shall also be awarded in this category.

    For the students category cash prizes of Rs.3 Lakhs, Rs.2 Lakhs, and Rs.1 Lakh would be given as the top three prizes.

    Works of some participating professionals and students selected by the Jury would be displayed at the special exhibition on the day of the awards presentation.

  • ASCI Board Welcomes Partha Sinha as New Chairman

    MUMBAI: Post the board meeting held today following the 38th Annual General Meeting, the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) appointed Partha Sinha, President & Chief Brand Officer of Bennett Coleman & Company Limited, as the Chairman of the ASCI Board of Governors for 2024-25. Sudhanshu Vats, Deputy Managing Director, Pidilite Industries Limited, was appointed Vice-Chairman, and S. Subramanyeswar, Group CEO & Chief Strategy Officer-APAC, Lintas India Private Limited was appointed Hon. Treasurer.

    Sinha comes with a rich and vast experience with top organizations such as Bennet Coleman, Ogilvy, Publicis, BBH, McCann, and Citibank, along with his stronghold of brand marketing, media, and communications.

    Partha Sinha expressed a compelling vision for ASCI. “Being the chairperson of ASCI is both an honor and a profound responsibility, especially as our industry is under greater scrutiny by our stakeholders. With rapid changes in the digital environment and the emergence of new challenges. ASCI is committed to not just keeping up but to staying ahead. Deploying technology and AI to monitor errant advertising as well as putting our might behind preventive measures will be our focus in the days to come. This will ensure that creativity and responsibility coexist, creating an ecosystem that values consumers and encourages innovation.”

    Reflecting on his term, outgoing Chairman Saugata Gupta said, “Leading ASCI through a period that witnessed significant development and change has been a privilege. This year has been marked by historic milestones, including the formation of the ASCI Academy, which has become a cornerstone in promoting responsible and progressive advertising. Our commitment to training and capacity building, creating new direction via our thought leadership work, reflects a culture of responsibility from the ground up.”

    ASCI has made great progress in terms of its achievements and strategic initiatives during the year, reinforcing its commitment to proactive work since the start of the ASCI Academy. The Academy’s expansion is an important aspect of ASCI’s initiatives, and it is quickly becoming an active proponent of industry training and education. Since its inception, the Academy has expanded to encompass over 75 alliances and, through its training and education, successfully impacted 33,300 new and emerging professionals, firmly anchoring ethical principles deeply within the advertising community.

    ASCI has also actively engaged in research and thought leadership through collaborative projects. Notable among these were partnerships with Khaitan & Co. on a white paper on the influence of generative AI on advertising, with the UN Women-led Unstereotype Alliance and lead research agency Kantar on D&I in India, as well as with Lexplosion for an in-depth understanding of privacy and data protection.

    In the past year, ASCI actively co-hosted and participated in several stakeholder and government consultations to address and discuss issues like dark patterns, green claims, and surrogate advertising.

    ASCI updated and introduced new guidelines on an array of categories this year, including deceptive patterns, charitable cause marketing, and green claims ads, among others. These changes keep the ASCI Code current in the face of the changing industry dynamics and consumer expectations.

    ASCI’s rigorous complaint redressal and monitoring operations this year included processing over 10,000 complaints and reviewing over 8,200 advertisements, affirming its role as a vigilant guardian of the advertising industry.

    ASCI remains dedicated to advancing ethical, inclusive, and transparent advertising.

  • Aristocrat Media’s 3rd Healthcare and Wellness Innovation Conclave

    September 21, 2024, at MIT World Peace University, Pune!

    MUMBAI: Aristocrat Media, a renowned entity in recognizing and celebrating excellence across various industries, is set to host the 3rd Edition of the Healthcare and Wellness Innovation Conclave on September 21, 2024, at the prestigious MIT World Peace University, Pune. Following the resounding success of the previous editions, this year’s event promises to be a monumental gathering of healthcare leaders, innovators, and visionaries.

    The Healthcare and Wellness Innovation Conclave has quickly established itself as a significant platform, fostering dialogue and collaboration in the ever-evolving healthcare sector. Under the visionary leadership of Founder Mr. Farooq Shaikh, Aristocrat Media continues to drive advancements and highlight the critical role of technology and innovation in shaping the future of healthcare.

    The event will be graced by the support of our esteemed partners: Strand Life Sciences as the Technology Partner, JM Financial as the Silver Partner, and Kiaan Wellness as the Wellness Partner. Alongside, we are collaborating with industry leaders and innovators including Redefine, SMBConnect, Theistic Business Consultants, Approach Entertainment as PR & Celebrity Partner, Go Spiritual India as Spiritual Partner, siliconindia, Pharma Utility, Gravitas AI, and many more. These partnerships are pivotal in making the event a grand success, bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise to explore the latest advancements and trends in healthcare and wellness.

    The upcoming edition will feature an impressive lineup of speakers, including industry stalwarts such as Mr. Farooq Shaikh, Founder of Aristocrat Media; Umesh Unnikrishnan, Director of the Medical Value Travel Council of India; Dr. Urvashi Prasad, Director at the Office of the Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog, Government of India; Dr. Rajiv Chhibber, Vice President of External Affairs (Policy, Government Relations & Outreach) at Sahajanand Medical Technologies; Mr. Rahul Datta, CEO of Ankura Hospital, Hyderabad; Mihir Vora, Founder of Magnus Medi; Mukesh Sinha, Director of OSEL Devices Limited and Co-Founder of Gravitas AI Ltd., UK; Dr. Akshay Kulkarni, Founder of Onco-Connect; Nilesh Sahasrabudhe, Founder and CEO of NordicMojo; Dr. Rishabh Bhandari, Founder of Medisha.com; Swamy SRII Rajvibhu, The Kumbhak Yogi; and Sagar Vazare, Director of KIAAN Wellness Corporation, among others. These experts will delve into pressing topics such as the integration of technology in healthcare, patient safety, the transformative power of AI, mental health and wellness, and holistic approaches to well-being.

    In addition to insightful discussions, the Conclave will honor outstanding contributions in the healthcare sector through a prestigious awards ceremony. Categories will include the Most Innovative CEOs in Healthcare, Most Innovative HR in Healthcare, and the esteemed Healthcare Innovation Excellence Award. The rigorous selection process adheres to international standards, ensuring that only the most deserving individuals and organizations receive recognition.

    “We are thrilled to continue our journey of recognizing and celebrating the remarkable achievements in healthcare,” said Farooq Shaikh. “We aim to inspire and motivate healthcare professionals and innovators to reach even greater heights in their fields.”

    Aristocrat Media’s previous awards and initiatives, including the Business Tycoon Awards, Global Healthcare and Medical Tourism Conclave and Awards, and Indo Asia Healthcare Leadership Award, have set a precedent for recognizing excellence across industries. The 2nd Edition of Healthcare Innovation Conclave & Awards promises to be a momentous occasion, bringing together visionaries, innovators, and healthcare leaders to pave the way for a brighter and healthier future for India.Aristocrat Media is a leading organization dedicated to recognizing and celebrating excellence in various industries. With a history of hosting prestigious awards and conclave events, Aristocrat Media has become synonymous with honoring outstanding contributions across diverse sectors. Committed to inspiring excellence and innovation, Aristocrat Media continues to lead the way in recognizing the best and brightest talents in India.

  • Your Ultimate Guide to Nutrition for Pre-Diabetes Control


    Almond Board of California

    By Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS and Nutritionist

    According to a study published in The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology, 136 million people in India, or 15.3% of the population, may be living with pre diabetes. This is a significant increase from 2017 when 6–15% of the population was estimated to have prediabetes. [1]With a rising tide of pre-diabetic cases in India, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to manage your health. Clean, mindful eating is key to maintaining blood sugar levels and can even reverse pre-diabetes. Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS and nutritionist, emphasizes the importance of incorporating specific foods into your diet to control blood sugar before it escalates into diabetes. Alongside dietary changes, she advises an active lifestyle, avoiding ultra-processed foods, and engaging in regular physical activities like post-meal walks to curb blood sugar spikes.

    Foods to Include in a Pre-Diabetic Diet

    Almonds Almonds are protein-dense, contain healthy fats, and are rich in fiber, all of which help regulate blood sugar. Two new research studies published last year authored by Dr. Anoop Misra and Dr Seema Gulati showed that a simple addition of almonds to the diet may help reduce the burden of diabetes. More specifically, a handful of almonds eaten 30 minutes before breakfast, lunch, and dinner for three months reversed prediabetes to normal blood sugar levels in nearly one-quarter of the people studied – improvements as potent as taking prescription diabetes medication. Diabetes researchers described this reversal from prediabetes to normal blood glucose regulation as “the holy grail of medicine.” Therefore, Dr. Patil recommends a handful of almonds daily, whether as a snack or in salads and yogurt, to stabilize blood sugar and curb overeating.

    Green Leafy Vegetables Leafy greens like spinach, fenugreek, and amaranth are low in carbs and high in fiber, making them a good addition for managing blood sugar levels. These vegetables are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health. Their low glycemic index (GI) makes them crucial for pre-diabetes management.

    Greek Yogurt Greek yogurt is a good source of protein and probiotics, which benefit gut health. The protein content slows carbohydrate digestion, leading to a gradual release of sugar into the bloodstream. Dr. Patil advises choosing unsweetened Greek yogurt and pairing it with nuts or fruits for a blood sugar-friendly snack.

    Lean Protein Lean proteins like fish, chicken, eggs, and legumes are vital for blood sugar management. Fish, especially fatty types like salmon, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which improve insulin sensitivity. For vegetarians, paneer and tofu offer similar benefits. Including these proteins in meals can help prevent blood sugar spikes.

    Whole Grains Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and barley are high in fiber, which slows sugar absorption. Their lower GI makes them ideal for managing blood sugar. Dr. Patil suggests starting your day with oatmeal or incorporating brown rice into meals for sustained energy and better blood sugar control.

    If you’re pre-diabetic and not on medication, Dr. Patil stresses the importance of clean eating habits and incorporating these foods into your daily routine. Staying physically active is equally important. She recommends at least 30 minutes of physical activity, five days a week, such as walking, yoga, or moderate exercises, to manage blood sugar and prevent the progression to type 2 diabetes.

    By making these dietary changes and staying active, you can take control of your blood sugar levels and maintain overall health. Dr. Patil’s balanced nutrition and sustainable practices offer an effective approach to managing pre-diabetes.

  • Raymond Lifestyle’s Bourse Debut: Targeting a 7% Share in the Men’s Wedding Wear Market by 2027

    Expansion plans include 900 outlets in 3 years, alongside the launch of new categories

    MUMBAI: Raymond Lifestyle Ltd. (“RLL”), whose shares will be listed on the bourses on September 5, 2025, is on its way to towards the largest-ever retail expansion by adding 900 new outlets over three years. The Raymond Group’s lifestyle business entity is eyeing a 15% Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) to attain around 7% market share in the fast-growing Men’s-Wear wedding market by 2027.

    Raymond, which will now have two listed entities following the demerger of its retail and lifestyle businesses, is focused on unlocking shareholder value by creating specialized businesses. Backed by a legacy of nearly a century, Raymond enjoys the position as the largest brand in the Indian men’s -wear wedding market, estimated at around Rs 75,000 crore. RLL, which is set to emerge among the top three global fabric suppliers by the end of this year, has sales of Rs 2550 crore from the wedding business in FY’24, which includes Raymond’s wedding and ceremonial attire, and Ethnix, its Indian ethnic wear offering.

    Underscoring RLL’s role in further cementing itself in the rapidly expanding lifestyle segment, Gautam Singhania, Chairman and Managing Director, of Raymond Group, said, “The demerger aims at unlocking shareholder value by creating a focussed lifestyle business entity. Raymond Lifestyle will sharpen its strategic focus in this fast-growing sector to become among the top three global fabric suppliers by the end of this year. The global scenario presents significant opportunities, particularly the challenges in China and Bangladesh and trade agreements with the UK, EU, and Australia.”

    Highlighting RLL’s massive expansion plans, Sunil Kataria, CEO, of Raymond Lifestyle, said, “The Raymond brand enjoys an iconic status in the Indian Wedding Men’s-Wear market. With Raymond Lifestyle, we are all set to embark upon the largest-ever retail expansion with 900 new outlets over three years, alongside launching new categories such as sleepwear and innerwear. Several other categories are also in the pipeline. When it comes to our existing brands, Ethnix has already established its distinct position in the market, and we plan to nearly triple our physical presence with an additional 300 Ethnix stores in the next three years. We believe that we can achieve unparalleled growth in this wedding segment, significantly consolidating our position as the dominant market leader.”

    As a focused, pure-play consumer business, RLL is pursuing a three-pronged strategic approach of strengthening the core of branded textiles, accelerating the growth of apparel garments, and building new categories such as ethnic wear, innerwear, sleepwear, and international retail. RLL is focused on enhancing the distribution presence in the country and plans to set up over 650 Exclusive Brand Outlets (EBOs) over the next three years.

    Speaking about RLL’s growth plans, Amit Agarwal, Chief Financial Officer, of Raymond Group, said, “In the next three years, we anticipate Raymond Lifestyle doubling its EBITDA to over ₹20 billion. We are also looking towards a 12–15% sales growth in the lifestyle sector. The aim for Raymond Lifestyle would be to capture around 7% market share in the dynamic Men’s-Wear wedding market by 2027.”

    Raymond is the 10th strongest brand in India, and the only fabric and apparel brand as recognized by Brand Finance. Guided by the enduring legacy of “The Complete Man”, Raymond has always epitomized the values of trust, quality, and excellence. RLL is set to carry this legacy forward, continuing to define men’s fashion with the same timeless elegance.

  • President Draupadi Murmu Commends MLA Siddharth Shirole for His Inspiring Assembly Speeches

    PUNE: President Draupadi Murmu presented MLA Siddharth Shirole with the ‘Outstanding Speech’ award today. The award ceremony was held in the Central Hall of Vidhan Bhavan, Mumbai. Shirole was selected for the Outstanding Speech Award for the year 2021-22 on behalf of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Board.

    Governor of Maharashtra C.P. Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Vidhan Sabha Speaker Adv Rahul Narvekar, Legislative Council Deputy Speaker Dr Neelam Gorhe, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Chandrakant Patil, Vidhan Sabha Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal and Leader of Opposition Ambadas Danve were present on the occasion.

    While raising the issues of his constituency Chhatrapati Shivaji Nagar in the assembly he also touched upon some important issues of the state. His approach to putting solutions forward while sharing concerns was one of the most important reasons behind getting him this prestigious award. He consistently raised the issues about traffic chaos at the SPPU Square, inclusion of Kirkee Cantonment in the PMC Limits, Maratha reservation, and rehabilitation of flood-affected families from, his constituency.

    In the photo (from Left) Devendra Fadnavis, Governor of Maharashtra C.P. Radhakrishnan, President Draupadi Murmu, Siddharth Shirole, Eknath Shinde, and Ajit Pawar. 

  • Jawa’s Striking 42 FJ Redefines Motorcycle Performance


    Jawa 42 FJ

    A Bold Neo Classic powered by a New 350 Alpha2 engine

    Jawa disrupts the category again with prices starting at Rs. 1,99,142 (ex-showroom Delhi), delivering the trinity of design, performance and price

    Expands the ‘42 Life’ series – 42, 42 Bobber, and now 42 FJ.

    Bold road presence: longer wheelbase, higher ground clearance

    Segment-first brushed aluminum tank panels

    All-new muscular neo-classic design with enhanced ergonomics

    New upswept exhaust with a distinct soundtrack; all-LED lighting

    New 350 Alpha2 engine for class-leading performance

    Benchmark-setting handling and class-leading braking

    Five stunning colors, and multiple cladding options 

    PUNE: Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles, the pioneers of the ‘Neo-Classic’ segment in India, proudly launch the all-new 350 Jawa 42 FJ, the latest member of the Jawa 42 Life series. Building on the success of the 42 and 42 Bobber, the 350 Jawa 42 FJ marks an exciting new chapter for the “42 Life” theme, celebrating a commitment to superior design and an unparalleled riding experience.

    The name of this motorcycle is inspired by František Janeček, the visionary founder of Jawa, which aims to deliver a bold, modern riding experience for today’s motorcycling enthusiasts. With this addition to the line-up, Jawa makes big strides, blending design, power, presence, and cutting-edge technology, to set the new benchmark for the segment in 2024.

    “The 2024 Jawa 42 embodies our design-led approach to motorcycle engineering,” says Anupam Thareja, Co-founder of Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles. “We’ve taken our time with this bike, pushing the boundaries of the ‘price-performance’ matrix and achieved a great blend of edgy performance, gorgeous form, and precision engineering. As pioneers of Neo-Classics in India, the 42 FJ is a testament to our challenger spirit and disruptive approach.”

    With the expansion of the ‘42 Life’ series, Jawa has extended the ideal balance of design, price, and performance across motorcycle formats, to appeal to a wide swathe of discerning riders. This is more than just a motorcycle—it’s a redefinition of the neo-classic category.

    Stunning design language

    The 350 Jawa 42 FJ bridges classic Jawa DNA with contemporary flair, embodying a neo-classic motorcycle. Its standout feature is the anodized, brushed aluminum fuel tank cladding – a segment first. This finish enhances the bike’s appeal and allows for personalization through various color options and Jawa branding choices.

    Complementing the tank cladding are the aluminum headlamp holder and grab handles, along with aluminum footpegs. These elements contribute to a cohesive design that honors Jawa’s heritage while embracing modern craftsmanship.

    The 42 FJ’s iconic curves and distinctive silhouette pay homage to its rich legacy. An off-set fuel cap adds a unique touch to the tank design. The wide, flat seat with premium stitching ensures rider comfort while maintaining style.

    Modern features include an upswept exhaust, delivering the signature Jawa sound, and an all-LED lighting package. A fully digital instrument cluster and USB charging port round off the rider-focused elements, blending traditional aesthetics with current technology.

    The 350 Jawa 42 FJ’s design showcases the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, creating a riding experience that appeals to both classic motorcycle enthusiasts and those who appreciate contemporary features.

    Formidable engine and performance 

    At the heart of the Jawa 42 FJ is the new cutting-edge 350 Alpha2 engine. This powerhouse delivers an impressive 29.2 PS and 29.6 Nm, engineered for unmatched acceleration, smart gear-based mapping, and a slick six-speed gearbox with A&S clutch technology. The 42 FJ is designed to offer robust performance, making it a formidable force in the neo-classic segment.

    The 42 FJ is engineered on a double cradle frame for superior handling, paired with a long, 1440 mm wheelbase for enhanced highway stability and control. With a segment-leading 178 mm ground clearance, the FJ is big on go-anywhere adventures. The dual-channel ABS, combined with larger disc brakes, delivers precise stopping power, significantly enhancing rider safety and confidence. Adding to rider convenience are the premium diamond-cut alloy wheels with tubeless tires.

    Exploring The 42 Life

    The New 350 Jawa 42 FJ is the newest edition in the brand’s Neo-Classic lineup, joining the popular 42 and 42 Bobber, and looks poised to garner fans of its own very quickly, with this power- and feature-packed offering.

    The Jawa 42 FJ is available in a range of premium colors, with prices starting from Rs. 1,99,142. Below is the detailed pricing for all variants:

    ModelVariantColorPrice (Ex-showroom Delhi) Jawa 42 FJDual Channel ABS, AlloyDeep Black Matte Red CladRs 2,20,142Jawa 42 FJDual Channel ABS, AlloyDeep Black Matte Black CladRs 2,20,142Jawa 42 FJDual Channel ABS, AlloyCosmo Blue MatteRs 2,15,142Jawa 42 FJDual Channel ABS, AlloyMystique CopperRs 2,15,142Jawa 42 FJDual Channel ABS, AlloyAurora Green MatteRs 2,10,142Jawa 42 FJDual Channel ABS, SpokeAurora Green Matte SpokeRs 1,99,142

  • The Spectacular Saudi Campaign for Indian Adventurers


    The vibrant waters of NEOM are home to some of the most picturesque and pristine islands in the Red Sea | Islands of NEOM – NEOM, Saudi Arabia

     ‘Spectacular Saudi’ invites Indian travelers to experience the breadth of destinations and events in the country, with the campaign highlighting Saudi’s warm hospitality and unmatched welcome

    The campaign is launching pan-India in English, across social media, digital platforms, TV, and OTA channels

    Saudi has introduced exclusive packages from 12 trade partners, tailor-made for Indian travelers

    PUNE: Saudi’s national tourism brand, ‘Saudi Welcome to Arabia’ has launched its first-ever integrated consumer campaign for the Indian market – ‘Spectacular Saudi’. With a captivating blend of ancient tales and modern marvels, this campaign reveals a side of Saudi that transcends all expectations.

    Launching in English across the country, ‘Spectacular Saudi’ takes viewers on an immersive journey through Saudi’s golden sands, pristine waters, and endless skies, revealing the country’s iconic landscapes and experiences.

    The campaign visuals bring to life all that makes Saudi a spectacular destination – from the ancient mud-brick architecture of Diriyah’s At-Turaif and the pristine waters of the Red Sea to the historic streets of Al Balad in Jeddah and the majestic Nabataean tombs in Hegra, AlUla. Spotlighting Saudi’s open and welcoming culture which resonates with Indian hospitality in many ways; the campaign further cements Saudi’s close affinity with Indian culture. It invites couples, families, and people in search of iconic experiences rooted in culture and heritage, to explore the unexplored. It narrates the story of a Spectacular Saudi, one steeped in heritage, history, and modern wonders while encouraging prospective Indian travelers to embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery.

    Campaign https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHz6uwP5uX4 

    Speaking on the campaign, Alhasan Aldabbagh, President of APAC Markets at the Saudi Tourism Authority, said, “Indian travelers have long shown a deep appreciation for authentic and unique experiences. They are keen to explore novel destinations, cultures, and gastronomy, and that is exactly what Saudi has to offer. With iconic destinations like Diriyah, Al Balad, and Hegra in AlUla – three of Saudi’s eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, they can walk through history dating back millennia, and with tailor-made packages, experience world-class culture, adventure, and cuisine.

    We are excited for Indians to experience the warm Saudi welcome, a core part of our heritage, and something intrinsic to Indian culture as well. India holds an incredibly special place in our hearts, and we are committed to making India the number one source market by 2030. In 2023 alone, 1.6 million Indians traveled to Saudi. We are thrilled to welcome Indian visitors to truly experience the Heart of Arabia.”

    Hot air balloons in the air at Winter at Tantora balloon festival in AlUla

    With a 240% surge in leisure visits from India as compared to last year – It has never been easier to visit Saudi, with over 330 direct weekly flights and 8 airline operators. Indians holding a valid tourist or business visa from the United States of America, the United Kingdom, or any Schengen country, with stamped proof of entry are eligible for the eVisa and visa upon arrival at Saudi international airports. Those not eligible under the above-mentioned criteria can apply for the visa through 11 Tasheer Centres across India. For more information, visit https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/plan-your-trip/visa-regulations, the one-stop for all Saudi visa requirements. Indian travelers can also apply for a free Stopover visa, which is valid for up to 96 hours and can be obtained 90 days in advance on the Saudia Airline and Flynas website.

    To explore the heart of Arabia, visit https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/campaigns/india and book your next getaway with access to exclusive packages and offers from 12 trade partners in India.