R Madhavan on meeting wife Sarita when she was his student
Long before he became one of the most recognisable faces in Indian cinema, R. Madhavan was teaching public speaking and communication skills in Kolhapur. It was there that he first met his future wife, Sarita Birje not at a film event or party, but inside a classroom.
India sugar output seen lower than forecast, curbing exports
KOLHAPUR, India, Feb 18 (Reuters) India is likely to produce less sugar than initially estimated, as excessive rainfall across major producing states is resulting in lower cane yields, farmers and trade officials told Reuters, capping exports from the worlds second-largest producer. Traders said India may struggle to ship even half of its allocated export quota, lending support to global sugar prices that are hovering near five-year lows while also lifting domestic prices. India is expected to produce between 28.5 million and 29 million metric tons of sugar in the 2025/26 marketing year ending in September, according to internal estimates
Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma and cricketer Virat Kohli were spotted at Mumbai airport today (February 16), turning a routine travel moment into an effortless style statement. The town's power couple, known for their understated yet elegant fashion choices, kept things comfortable and traditional, but it was Anushka's Tulsi mala that truly caught everyone's attention. Decoding Anushka and Virat's Mumbai airport look Anushka chose to keep it ethnic and fuss-free in a serene white kurta, featuring intricate dark blue floral thread embroidery across the front, back and sleeves. The ensemble was designed with a relaxed silhouette, side slits and a round split neckline. She paired it with matching white pants adorned with similar blue floral detailing. A lightweight cotton silk dupatta, decorated with delicate motifs, was draped neatly over her shoulders. Keeping accessories subtle yet meaningful, Anushka wore sunglasses, rings, a watch and classic white Kolhapuri flats. Her centre-parted loose hair, soft makeup and tiny bindi completed the look, but the real focal point was the Tulsi kanthi mala resting around her neck. Virat complemented her aesthetic in a monochrome ensemble. He opted for a black-and-white button-down shirt featuring full sleeves and a relaxed fit, paired with tailored black trousers. A belt, sunglasses, white sneakers and a luxury watch rounded off his polished airport style. What does the Tulsi Mala signify? Anushka's Tulsi mala holds deep spiritual meaning. According to spiritual scripts, the Tulsi kanthi mala is crafted from the sacred Tulsi plant's stem or wood and is traditionally worn by devotees of Lord Vishnu and his avatars, such as Lord Krishna and Lord Rama. Tulsi is revered in Hindu belief as an embodiment of Goddess Lakshmi and a symbol of purity and devotion. Wearing it is not merely a fashion choice but a spiritual commitment. The mala is typically purified, often with Gangajal, and offered in prayer before being worn. It is believed to bring mental calm, protection from negativity and spiritual discipline. However, certain lifestyle practices are associated with it. Devotees are encouraged to follow clean habits and avoid consuming non-vegetarian food, onion, garlic or alcohol while wearing it. The mala is treated with utmost respect and not worn casually. While Anushka has not made any public declaration about lifestyle changes, both she and Virat have previously visited Premanand Maharajs ashram in Vrindavan multiple times, reflecting their spiritual inclination.
Mumbai: The opening ceremony of TiltShift 2026, presented by State Bank of India, commenced with a mesmerizing classical music performance, followed by a dramatic theatrical announcement that officially declared the opening of TiltShift 2026, Natya Nirvana. The entire auditorium was instantly electrified by the contagious enthusiasm of contingents, whose powerful chants, vibrant energy, and striking PR presence echoed till the end of Tiltshift 2026. The 11th edition of TiltShift - Natya Nirvana, the annual intercollegiate media fest hosted by the Department of Communication and Media, Ramnarain Ruia Autonomous College, unfolded as a spectacular three-day celebration from 9th to 11th February 2026, culminating in a grand finale that truly embodied its theatrical theme. US: 22-Year-Old Indian Student Saketh Sreenivasaiah Disappears In Berkeley; Search Intensifies In The East Bay Area Over the course of three days, TiltShift Natya Nirvana featured a diverse range of events across Fine Arts, Literary Arts, Design, and Performing Arts, which drew enthusiastic participation from colleges across the city. Each event was thoughtfully curated and seamlessly executed, wherein all the participants showcased creativity, spontaneity, and innovation, while audiences witnessed performances that celebrated storytelling in its many forms. All the events were further elevated by the presence of many distinguished industry professionals who graced the judging panels for our events. From Smita Gondkar and Miheeka Kumbhare for Personality Contest, Yogesh Ghole for Slam Poetry, Shalmali Pethe for Debate, Avdhut Narvekar & Nidhi Haria for Canvas & Face Painting respectively,Shreyas Desai for Theatrical Dance, to Krishav Payyade for TVC, and Salil Acharya for Radio Jockey and more, TiltShifts stage was honoured to have their expertise & insight, inspiring & guiding all our participants. CBSE Introduces On-Screen Marking For Class-12 - Post-Result Verification No Longer Needed The flagship event, 60 Hours, a pan-India short-film making challenge, judged by renowned writers and filmmakers Sajid Samji and Swapnil Kapure, was one of the most intense and anticipated events of TiltShift this year as well. With its initial auction ceremony conducted a few days ago, with the support of our venue partner- Hotel Heritage, the top eight compelling short-films were screened on the last day of TiltShift26, each reflecting dedication, vision, and cinematic skill. The top two positions were secured by NCP contingents from Hyderabad (Team No. 8) and Kolhapur (Team No. 6) respectively, while the third podium was claimed by one of TiltShifts participating contingent, CC Romeo Juliet aka Kishinchand Chellaram (KC) College, Mumbai. The closing ceremony (Prize Distribution Ceremony) marked a special milestone in TiltShifts history with the unveiling of its customized trophies for the first time, adding a distinctive and memorable touch to the celebrations. With the electrifying energy in the air and a competitive spirit buzzing through every participant, CC Sangeet Devbabhali aka M.L. Dhanukar College was awarded the Best College podium, CC Savita Damodar Paranjpe aka Thakur College, secured the First Runner-Up podium and CC Shikayla Gelo Ek aka Kirti M. Doongursee College earned the title of Second Runner-Up. US: City Of Seattle Reaches USD 29 Million Settlement With Family Of Jaahnavi Kandula, Indian Graduate Student Killed By Police Officer The three-day celebration concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by the Head of the Department of Communication and Media, bringing the curtains down on a stage that did not just leave behind memories, but a lasting impression of collaboration, networking, event management & passion. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
'Ajit Pawar Was Discussing Merger With NCP (SP) Leaders,' Says Hasan Mushrif
Pune: Senior NCP leader Hasan Mushrif on Friday admitted that the late party president Ajit Pawar was holding talks with NCP (SP) leaders on the merger of the two factions. Speaking to reporters in Kolhapur, Mushrif, a cabinet minister in Maharashtra, said the situation has changed after Ajit Pawar's death in an air crash last month, and before taking any decision, his party will have to take the ruling ally BJP into confidence. I have said it many times that Ajit Pawar was discussing the merger of the two NCPs... no (other) leader from NCP was part of it. We are not claiming that no discussion about merger took place. (But) Now, after the demise of Ajit dada, the situation has changed. We will have to take BJP into confidence, he said. Rohit Pawar Seeks Impartial Probe Into Ajit Dada's Plane Crash, Raises Questions By Writing To Amit Shah, Civil Aviation Minister & DGCA He further said that the party will take decision as per the wishes of Ajit Pawar's wife and deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar. We used to get calls (from Ajit Pawar) that if both the factions come together, they will have to contest the (local body) polls on one symbol. But beyond this, dada never talked to us (about merger ), claimed Mushrif. While the NCP (SP) leaders including Sharad Pawar have said that Ajit Pawar was keen on reuniting the party, NCP leaders have indicated that they are in no hurry to expedite the process. (Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ's editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.) To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
Kolhapur couple dupes Goans of Rs 1.59 crore in women upliftment scam
Panaji: A couple from Kolhapur, Maharashtra, has reportedly duped a number of women from Goa to the tune of over Rs 1.59 crore by inducing them to invest money towards the purchase of machinery such as automatic and manual fabric non-woven bag making machines under the guise of women empowerment. Economic Offences Cell (EOC) of []
Pawar Reunion Fails to Win Election
The BJP also led in several civic bodies across western Maharashtra, including Kolhapur, Satara, Solapur and Sangli, underlining its expanding footprint in the region.
Congress to have its Mayors in five cities, 350 corporators across Maharashtra: Sapkal
According to the Congress, the party is in a position to install its own Mayors in Latur, Chandrapur, Bhiwandi (Thane district), Parbhani and Kolhapur, which were among the 29 Municipal Corporations in Maharashtra
Kolhapur Election Results: Congress-led MVA leading against BJP's Mahayuti in KMC polls
Congress is leading in the Kolhapur Civic election results counting. Vote counting for the Kolhapur Municipal Corporation is underway. The Mahayuti and Maha Vikas Aghadi are locked in a close battle for the 81-member civic body. Early trends indicate a tight contest.
Chandigarh University Wins 11 Gold Medals; Lifts Overall AIU Inter-University Championship 2025-26
Chandigarh University once again stamped its authority on Indian university sports by delivering a historic double triumph at the All-India Inter-University Wrestling Greco-Roman and Freestyle Championship 202526, clinching the Overall Championship titles in both Greco-Roman and Freestyle categories by winning a total of 16 medals including 11 Gold (6 in Greco Roman and 5 in Freestyle), 3 Silver (Freestyle) and 2 Bronze medals (1 each in both categories) in both categories. Chandigarh University wrestling medalists along with University officials receiving the overall champions trophy in AIU Wrestling Championship held at Chandigarh University In Greco-Roman wrestling, Chandigarh University emerged as the undisputed champion finishing first overall, followed by Lovely Professional University in second place and Kurukshetra University in third. In Greco Roman, CU clinched the top spot with a total of 7 medals including 6 Gold 1 Bronze medal, Lovely Professional University (LPU) secured 2nd place with total 5 medals including 2 Gold and 3 Bronze medals and Kurukshetra University with total 3 medals including 1 Gold and 2 Bronze medals to secure 3rd place in the Greco Roman category. In GR category, CU grapplers clinched gold medals in six weight categories including commanding victories by Kapil Dalal (60 kg), Saurabh (67 kg), Umesh (82 kg), Prince (87 kg) and Hardeep (130 kg), many of them registering emphatic, one-sided wins that showcased superior strength, technique and tactical brilliance of these grapplers. Chandigarh Universitys dominance continued in Freestyle wrestling, where the varsity again finished first overall ahead of MDU Rohtak and Lovely Professional University. Standout performances included gold medal wins by Tushar (61 kg), Deepanshu (65 kg) and Paras (79 kg) with several bouts decided by large margins reflecting the aggressive yet composed approach of CU wrestlers on the mat. With total 9 medals including 5 Gold, 3 Silver and 1 Bronze, CU secured 1st place in Freestyle category and MDU Rohtak, Haryana with total 3 medals including 1 silver and 2 Bronze medals to secure 2nd place and Lovely Professional University with total 3 medals including 2 Silver and 1 Bronze medals had to suffice with 3rd place in the same category. The prestigious five-day national championship held from January 5 to 9 under the aegis of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) was hosted by the Chandigarh University and witnessed electrifying bouts amid biting winter conditions. The national wrestling championship saw participation from over 200 universities across the country with more than 2700 wrestlers competing in over 2000 bouts across 20 weight categories in Greco-Roman and Freestyle wrestling. Against this fiercely competitive contests, Chandigarh University grapplers delivered power-packed and disciplined performances, underlining the universitys growing stature as a powerhouse of university sports in India. Highlighting individual brilliance, Hardeep clinched gold in the Greco-Roman 130 kg category with an overwhelming 80 victory over Nitin of PU Gujarat, while Tushar dominated Kapil of JMAU Kota by 110 in the freestyle 61 kg final. In a final bout, Nishant from Gondwana University Maharashtra defeated Sourabh from LPU Punjab by 7-5 points to clinch Gold in 74 kg weight category. Deepanshu registered a convincing 100 win in the 65 kg freestyle category and Paras held his nerve in a thrilling 118 contest to secure gold in the 79 kg freestyle final. Several other CU wrestlers impressed with their resilience and tactical maturity, adding to the universitys rich medal haul. In another closely contested final bout, Manish from KUK Haryana defeated Nikhil from KN Modi University, Rajasthan by a margin of 9-6 points to win gold medal in Greco Roman 55 kg weight category. In a nail-biting final bout, Paras from Chandigarh University defeated Ankit from MSBU Rajasthan by 11-8 points to clinch gold medal in 79 kg freestyle category. In a final bout in freestyle 57 kg weight category, Rohit from KUK Haryana defeated Chandigarh University wrestler Rupesh by a margin of 4-1 to win the gold medal and Rupesh won the silver medal. In a one-sided contest, Kapil Dalal, a grappler from Chandigarh University defeated Sahil from BMU Haryana by 15-7 points to clinch the gold medal in the 60 kg Greco Roman category. In the Greco-Roman category (82 kg) final bout, Chandigarh Universitys Umesh put up a spectacular display of strength and agility to defeat Vijay from GUG University by 12-2 points. In a nail-biting final bout, Prince from Chandigarh University defeated Ankit of Chaudhary Ranbir Singh University, Jind by 5-4 points to win gold in 87 kg Greco Roman category. In another final bout, Saurabh from Chandigarh University put on a spectacular show of strength and agility to defeat his opponent Sunil of Desh Bhagat University Punjab by 9-4 points to win gold medal in the 67 kg Greco Roman category. Earlier, several power-packed performances were witnessed in the semi-finals on the final day of the championship. In a semi-final bout, Rupesh from Chandigarh University defeated Akash from PU, Patiala by a margin of 6-5 points in 57 kg freestyle category and Rohit from KUK Haryana defeated Jaiveer from Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth Varanasi by 8-2 points to secure place in the finals in the same category. In the semi-final bout, Manish from Kurukshetra University, Haryana defeated Nitin from LPU, Punjab by a margin of 9-3 points in the Greco-Roman 55 kg weight category. In another semi-final, Vikash from PU, Patiala defeated Omkar from SU, Kolhapur by a margin of 7-0 in a one-sided contest in 72 kg Greco-Roman category. In another one-sided contest, Mohit from Guru Kashi University Punjab defeated Suraj from KUK, Haryana by a huge margin of 9-0 in Greco-Roman 72 kg weight category. In semi-final bout, Dheeraj from Baba Mastnath University, Rohtak, delivered a remarkable performance, dominating Vinay Gurjar of Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Sirsa, winning the match with a decisive 11-0 margin. In the second semi-final, Sachin from Lovely Professional University, Punjab put on a spectacular show of strength and agility to defeat Atul Lohan of Sant Baba Bhag Singh University, Jalandhar by a thin margin of 9-8 points to advance to the final. Elated over the marvelous victory of Chandigarh University, while congratulating the CU grapplers, Deepinder Singh Sandhu, Senior Managing Director, Chandigarh University said, It indeed is a proud moment for Chandigarh University that our wrestlers have delivered spectacular performances in the All-India Inter-University Wrestling Championship to become the overall champion by winning 11 Gold medals. With this brilliant performance, CU not only successfully hosted one of the largest inter-university wrestling championships in the country but also reinforced its reputation as a breeding ground for national-level sporting talent . Sandhu added, Wrestling is not merely a sport but its pride of our nation and an integral part of Indias rich cultural heritage. Chandigarh University remains committed to encouraging young athletes to participate in traditional sports as staying connected to our roots is essential for the nations progress and development. The university provides world-class infrastructure and scholarships to its athletes to help them progress from the akhara to the Olympic stage . In 2024, Chandigarh University became the countrys first private university to win the prestigious Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy after securing a record 71 medals at the Khelo India University Games. In addition, the university won the Khelo India University Games for two consecutive years in 2024 and 2025. Chandigarh University students have won a total of 610 medals, including 138 national and 87 international medals. CU provides sports scholarships with an annual budget of Rs 6.5 crore and offers free facilities such as special diets, sports kits, travel, coaching, hostel accommodation, and other amenities. A total of 1,183 student-athletes, including 562 women, are currently benefiting from sports scholarships at Chandigarh University , added Sandhu . About Chandigarh University Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC. www.cuchd.in .
Maharashtra on a Plate at Mazzo
Home chef Swati Mawlankar brings the essence of Maharashtra to Hyderabad, offering a nostalgic dining experience that features traditional dishes like Kolhapuri chicken and sweet puran poli, perfect for both Maharashtrians and newcomers alike.
2025 fashion presented a dichotomy of styles, from the understated elegance of Quiet Luxury and Old Money to the playful chaos of Eclectic Grandpa and Y3K futurism. Denim, quirky accessories like Labubu dolls, and a sporty-preppy fusion also defined the year's trends, showcasing a bold experimentation with identity and vision.
A model tribal school in Maharashtra battles water scarcity to fight migration
The Hiwali school has been seeking solar power and a KT dam or Kolhapur-Type Weir, a low-cost, gravity-based riverbed structure that acts as a small dam or barrage to store post-monsoon river flow for water supply
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is among the 29 municipal corporations in Maharashtra to which elections will be held on January 15, Wednesday. The counting of votes is scheduled for January 16, Friday, the State Election Commission (SEC) announced on Monday. Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Nashik, Nagpur and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar are among the other prominent civic bodies going to polls. He reportedly confirmed that the election code of conduct has now come into force in all 29 local bodies. As many as 2,869 seats in these municipal corporations will be up for grabs in these local bodies, where elections are due since early 2022. Maharashtra State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare said the nomination process will begin on December 23, Tuesday with candidates allowed to make their submissions for a week until December 30. Scrutiny of papers will be done on December 31, and January 2, Friday, will be the last date of withdrawal of nominations, he said. Symbol allocation and the final list of candidates will be published on January 3. Polling in the 29 municipal corporations spread across Maharashtra will take place on January 15 and votes will be counted the next day, news agency PTI quoted Waghmare as saying. He said these 29 civic bodies, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), have 2,869 seats on offer and 3.48 crore voters are eligible to exercise their franchise in these major urban centres of the state. After long and tiring political blame games and court battles, the Supreme Court had finally given the deadline of January 31 to conduct the polls, reported Marathi media. Full list of local bodies heading to polls: BMC Pune Municipal Corporation Nagpur Municipal Corporation Solapur Municipal Corporation Kolhapur Municipal Corporation Thane Municipal Corporation Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation Nashik Municipal Corporation Aurangabad Municipal Corporation Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation Amravati Municipal Corporation New Mumbai Municipal Corporation NandedWaghala Municipal Corporation Ulhas Nagar Municipal Corporation Sangli-Miraj-Kupwara Municipal Corporation Malegaon Municipal Corporation Bhiwandi-Nizampur Municipal Corporation Akola Municipal Corporation Bhayander Municipal Corporation Ahmednagar Municipal Corporation Dhule Municipal Corporation Jalgaon Municipal Corporation Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation Parbhani Municipal Corporation Chandrapur Municipal Corporation Latur Municipal Corporation Panvel Municipal Corporation Ichalkaranji Municipal Corporation Jalna Municipal Corporation Dates to remember: Application submission window: December 2330, 2025 Application scrutiny: December 31, 2025 Last date for withdrawal of candidature: January 2, 2026 Election symbol allocation and release of final candidate list: January 3, 2026 Polling date: January 15, 2026 Counting of votes: January 16, 2026
Pradas Rs 84,000 Kolhapuri Sandals Set For 2026 Launch
The Italian luxury house teams up with Indian artisan bodies to craft a limited-edition line using traditional techniques
Prada partners with India to take Kolhapuri Chappals global; signs landmark MoU with LIDCOM & LIDKAR
MoU was signed between Prada and Maharashtra and Karnataka's Leather Industries
Prada to launch $930 'Made in India' Kolhapuri sandals after backlash
The deal comes months after Prada faced backlash for allegedly appropriating a sandal design made by Indian artisans.
Prada to source collection of sandals, inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals from LIDCOM, LIDKAR
Earlier in June this year, Prada faced criticism for leather sandals in its Spring/Summer 2026 collection, which closely resembled Kolhapuri Chappal
FDDI Hyderabad Hosts Three-Day Footwear Exhibition
Visitors were welcomed into a space that placed Mojari next to Jutti, Pulla near Chamba footwear, and Kolhapuri beside the Bharwadi Desi Joda and Pabu craft, there celebrating footwear as cultural memory and contemporary study.
TET paper leak racket busted in Kolhapur; 18 arrested
So far, we have arrested 18 persons in the case and the number may rise as the probe progresses. The involvement of more individuals, including facilitators and beneficiaries of the leak, is being investigated, the police said.
Established under a strategic collaboration between Starbucks Coffee Company & Tata Starbucks, the FSP aims to empower 10,000 Indian coffee farmers by 2030 Starbucks will open its 500th coffeehouse in India this week in Delhi NCR a Starbucks Reserve location offering a premium and immersive coffee experience Reaffirming its long-term commitment to India, and its plans to deepen its coffee leadership in the market, Starbucks Coffee Company today announced the establishment of a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP). In collaboration with Tata Starbucks Private Limited, the FSP will connect local agronomists and farmers to global farming best practices through open-source agronomy. Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Starbucks re-affirm coffee leadership and announce a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) to strengthen the coffee value chain from Bean to Cup Strengthening Indias coffee value chain from bean to cup Starbucks Coffee Trading Company, SARL (SCTC), Starbucks global procurement and trading subsidiary, will collaborate closely with Tata Starbucks to empower 10,000 farmers by 2030. The FSP based in Karnataka will combine Tata Starbucks deep local knowledge, Indias coffee-growing heritage, and decades of Starbucks global agronomy expertise. It will support farmers from Indias key coffee growing states including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala to strengthen connections with Starbucks global network, drive innovation, and share best practices in farming and sustainability to ensure a sustainable future for India coffee. The FSP will set up technical model farms in partnership with farmers in India, incorporating global learnings, to embed best practices in coffee agronomy and test sustainable solutions. The FSP in India will serve as a hub for testing new varietals, provide knowledge on innovative farming techniques aligned to Indian practices and conditions, and share insights about other agroforestry initiatives to improve coffee quality, productivity and climate resiliency. The goal is to build upon traditional methods to help farmers improve both the quality of their crops and their profitability. The FSP will work closely with existing centers of excellence within the Starbucks global network. This includes partnering with Farmer Support Centers (FSC) in coffee-growing regions around the world, where agronomists collaborate directly with farmers on research, and learning from existing model farms within Starbucks supply chain. This network includes FSCs in the APAC region in North Sumatra, Indonesia and Yunnan, China and Hacienda Alsacia in Costa Rica, Starbucks first company-operated coffee farm and headquarters to the Starbucks Costa Rica Farmer Support Center and Starbucks Global Research and Development team. Through the FSP, Indian farmers will also benefit from Starbucks 2026 global digital training tools, which will offer detailed online modules on agronomy, coffee quality, and C.A.F.E. (Coffee and Farmer Equity) practices to foster ethical sourcing and ultimately enhance productivity and sustainability. It will also educate farmers about Regen-Ag (regenerative agriculture) practices and methods to reduce carbon, water, and waste footprints, and contribute to agroforestry and social development initiatives. The FSP will develop projects across the key Starbucks commitments of unlocking coffee productivity, increasing farm profitability and building climate resiliency over the next 5 years. To build capability and strengthen Indias entire coffee value chain, Tata Starbucks will also donate one million high-yield variety Arabica seedlings to farmers over the next five years. During his visit to India this week, Brian Niccol, chairman and chief executive officer of Starbucks said, India is one of our fastest-growing markets. Were partnering with Tata to shape the future of coffee in India, including supporting farmers, empowering communities, and delivering the highest quality offerings to our customers. Its a long-term commitment to build a stronger, more sustainable coffee ecosystem that benefits everyone, from bean to cup . Sunil D'Souza, Managing Director & CEO at Tata Consumer Products said, Through the past decade, together, Tata Consumer Products and Starbucks, have helped shape Indias thriving coffee culture and industry. With this new initiative, we are pleased to pair Starbucks global agronomy expertise with Tatas footprint in India to drive tangible impact and pave the way for the future of responsible coffee farming in India . Re-affirming Starbucks coffee leadership through differentiated and elevated experiences Since its inception in 2012 as a joint venture between Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Consumer Products, Tata Starbucks has been dedicated to delivering the unique Starbucks Experience to customers in India. This has set the stage for Indias ever evolving and dynamic coffee culture. This week, Tata Starbucks will celebrate the opening of its 500th coffeehouse in India, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey and reaffirming its long-term commitment to the market. As one of Starbucks fastest-growing international markets, India remains central to the companys plans for strategic and sustainable expansion, with continued focus on job creation and meaningful development opportunities for its partners (employees). The 500th coffeehouse will be the second location to offer a Starbucks Reserve coffee experience in Delhi NCR, engaging coffee enthusiasts with an immersive experience that showcases Starbucks coffee craft, heritage, and storytelling. The coffeehouse and its Starbucks Reserve experience underscore Tata Starbucks commitment to elevating Indias coffee craftsmanship through elevated store design, handcrafted beverages, and locally inspired innovations. As part of the global strategy to make Starbucks a welcoming coffeehouse where people gather to enjoy the finest coffee handcrafted by skilled baristas, Tata Starbucks will continue to focus on creating a differentiated and elevated coffee forward experience in India. It invites customers to experience the full flavor profile it offers - serving the worlds finest coffee and elevated offerings in a welcoming coffeehouse environment that has made it a beloved part of Indias coffee landscape. Sushant Dash, chief executive officer of Tata Starbucks said, As the largest specialty coffee player in India, we are proud to bring the Farmer Support Partnership in collaboration with SCTC, a meaningful step toward strengthening Indias coffee-growing community and securing the future of high-quality Arabica. Our commitment to India extends beyond growth, to investing in farmers, partners (employees) and customers to continue building a vibrant coffee culture. We will continue to serve the finest Arabica coffee from India and around the world, brought to life through the warm, welcoming third place experience that defines Starbucks . About Starbucks Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with more than 40,000 stores worldwide, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at about.starbucks.com or starbucks.com . About Tata Starbucks Private Limited Starbucks entered the Indian market in October 2012 through a 50/50 Joint Venture with Tata Consumer Products Limited and currently operates more than 497 stores in India across 81 cities, Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Alibaug, Amritsar, Anand, Aurangabad, Bangalore, Bhatinda, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Calicut, Chandigarh, Chennai, Dehradun, Faridabad, Gandhinagar, Ghaziabad, Goa, Guntur, Gurgaon, Guwahati, Gwalior Haridwar, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Indore, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Jodhpur, Kanpur, Kochi, Kolhapur, Kolkata, Lonavala, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Mangalore, Meerut, Mumbai, Mussoorie, Mysore, Nagpur, Nashik, New Delhi, Noida, Pathankot, Patiala, Pondicherry, Pune, Raipur, Siliguri, Sonipat, Surat, Thrissur, Trivandrum, Udaipur, Vadodara, Vapi, Varanasi, Vijayawada, Varanasi and Vizag are cities in India. through a network of over 4,437 passionate partners (employees). Starbucks stores are operated by the joint venture, Tata Starbucks Private Limited, and branded as Starbucks Coffee - A TATA Alliance.
Mahayuti, MVA lines blur for local body elections
Political parties are setting aside differences to win local elections. Sharad Pawar's NCP (SP) and Ajit Pawar's NCP are discussing an alliance for Pimpri Chinchwad polls. In Kolhapur, both NCP factions are uniting against the BJP. Shiv Sena (Shinde) wants to ally with BJP in Nagpur, threatening a broader coalition if talks fail.
Rival NCP Factions Join Hands Against BJP In Kolhapur
Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) and Ajit Pawars NCP have joined hands to form a front named Rajarshi Shahu Vikas Aghadi, (RSVA) which will contest the Chandgad Nagar Panchayat and Zilla Parishad elections.
After Kolhapuri Chappals, Pradas Rs 69,000 safety pin sparks online outrage over luxury minimalism
Prada's Rs 69,000 safety pin brooch has sparked online debate about luxury pricing and minimalism. This follows criticism earlier this year when the brand sold sandals resembling Indian Kolhapuri chappals for over $785, igniting accusations of cultural appropriation and a lack of credit to artisans.
Favourite Maharashtrian breakfast finds home in Hyderabad
Theres something magical about a good plate of Misal Pav, that fiery, flavorful Maharashtrian breakfast that wakes up your senses with every bite. The crunchy farsan, the spicy kat (curry), the soft pav buns soaking up all that masala goodness, its an explosion of taste thats impossible to forget. Born in Pune and Kolhapur, Misal Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
