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Household appliance brand Dreame Technology has named Bollywood actor Kriti Sanon as its first brand ambassador in India. The appointment is part of the company’s broader strategy to strengthen its footprint in the Indian market, which is emerging as a significant growth hub for smart home solutions and personal care appliances.

The collaboration with Sanon reflects Dreame’s intent to connect with India’s rapidly evolving consumer base by positioning its technology-driven offerings as essential lifestyle enablers. The company currently offers a suite of smart cleaning and grooming products, including robotic vacuums, cordless stick vacuums, and personal care tools such as high-speed hair dryers.

Manu Sharma, Managing Director, Dreame India said, "We are extremely delighted to welcome Kriti Sanon into the Dreame family. Her keen interest in technology and forward-thinking mindset align with our vision of redefining Indian homes through intelligent solutions and products. As we continue to introduce cutting-edge innovations in India, her association will reinforce Dreame as the preferred choice for those who appreciate smart living and superior performance. India is an integral part of Dreame's global expansion strategy - it represents a high-growth market, driven by an evolving consumer base increasingly embracing modern, technology-first lifestyles."

As the brand’s Indian ambassador, Sanon will feature in a series of marketing campaigns across digital, print, and television formats. Her role will focus on promoting Dreame’s smart appliances, aimed at consumers seeking convenience and performance in their day-to-day routines.

Kriti Sanon said, "I am excited to be a part of Dreame Technology, a brand that resonates with my philosophy of blending innovation with convenience. My lifestyle is fast-paced, and having smart solutions that take care of everyday tasks makes all the difference. With Dreame’s smart cleaning and personal care appliances, I can focus on what truly matters while the technology handles the rest."

The brand's product line is currently available via Amazon India and includes robotic vacuum cleaners for automated home maintenance, cordless vacuum models for flexible usage, multifunctional wet-and-dry vacuums, and advanced personal grooming tools.

The partnership with Sanon marks a milestone for Dreame Technology’s ambitions in India, as it aims to build recognition and trust among tech-savvy Indian households increasingly seeking intelligent lifestyle upgrades.

Rick Owens and Converse are continuing their ongoing design partnership with the third release of the TURBOWPN, marking another evolution in their reinterpretation of the classic 1980s Converse Weapon sneaker. What began in 2021 as a bold reimagining of a retro silhouette has now matured into a consistent design narrative between the high-fashion designer and the heritage streetwear brand.

The latest launch introduces two limited-edition colourways. Returning to the lineup is the White-on-White, a clean and stark classic. Joining it is a new neutral variant dubbed Oyster Gray. As described, “sophisticated without trying too hard,” the new shade aligns with Rick Owens’ signature aesthetic of balancing “the tension between minimalist restraint and maximalist audacity.”

“Some high-fashion-meets-street-culture collabs never cease—they morph, shift and return. Rick Owens and Converse have been building one such story,” the brands stated.

The TURBOWPN continues to push the boundaries of sneaker design with its exaggerated proportions and statement-heavy look. The silhouette retains its dramatic oversized tread and bold platform stance, a defining feature of Owens’ approach to footwear. Despite its visual heft, the sneaker is engineered for comfort, crafted from premium cowhide leather and fitted with a CX foam drop-in for enhanced wearability.

Design features include a reinforced toe box, wide laces, detailed stitching, and an elongated tongue, elements that connect back to previous Owens x Converse collaborations such as the TURBODRK and DRKSTAR.

As this latest release enters the market, it reinforces the ongoing synergy between fashion’s avant-garde and sneaker culture’s evolving landscape, with Rick Owens and Converse continuing to shape the narrative—one iteration at a time.

With the TURBOWPN drop now live in limited quantities, Converse and Rick Owens once again demonstrate the potential of long-term, concept-driven collaborations in shaping modern sneaker culture.

After the successful launch of its premium innerwear line in Goa, VIP Clothing Limited is now strengthening its footprint in Maharashtra and Delhi with the retail expansion of Frenchie X. The upgraded Frenchie X collection is now available at over 100 stores across Mumbai, Pune, and Delhi, bringing stylish, high-quality, and comfortable innerwear closer to consumers than ever before.

This expansion marks a significant step for VIP Clothing Limited in its broader strategy to cater to evolving consumer preferences through both physical and digital retail channels. By launching Frenchie X in India’s major metropolitan cities, the brand aims to ensure that premium innerwear is not just aspirational, but also easily accessible.

Sunil Pathare, Chairman & Managing Director, VIP Clothing Limited said, “Frenchie has been a trusted name in Indian innerwear for decades. With Frenchie X, we are taking comfort, style, and quality a step further. After the successful rollout in Goa, we are excited to bring this upgraded range to Mumbai and Delhi, ensuring our customers can easily access premium everyday essentials. This strategic expansion follows our commitment to enhance our physical presence in tandem with our digital footprint.”

The company had previously introduced Frenchie X on platforms like Swiggy Instamart and Zepto, tapping into the growing trend of instant delivery to meet daily lifestyle needs with speed and convenience. With the brand now extending its reach through offline retail, it continues to blend traditional and modern channels to serve a wider customer base.

VIP Clothing Limited, with a legacy spanning more than four decades, has long been a pioneer in the Indian innerwear industry. Initially focused on men’s innerwear, the brand has since diversified into segments for women, teens, athleisure, and accessories such as premium handkerchiefs. The introduction of Frenchie X in Maharashtra and Delhi not only reinforces its leadership in the category but also highlights its ongoing commitment to innovation and market expansion.

Reliance Retail’s beauty platform Tira is taking a significant step forward in its brand evolution by expanding into the lifestyle segment. This strategic move reflects the brand’s broader ambition of becoming a holistic destination for beauty and lifestyle enthusiasts. 

Coinciding with the onset of summer, Tira introduced its first lifestyle collection, which includes a stylish range of tumblers available in two sizes—1.2 litres and 600ml—as well as a sleek 1-litre Tira Sipper Bottle.

The collection is set to roll out both online and across the brand’s physical stores, ensuring accessibility to consumers through all major retail and digital channels.

Looking ahead, Tira plans to expand its lifestyle offerings across a variety of categories, including wellness and hydration essentials, travel and everyday accessories, apparel, and items geared towards personal expression.

Tira made its debut as an e-commerce platform in February 2023 under the umbrella of Reliance Retail, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Ltd. It quickly followed up with the opening of its flagship store in April at Jio World Drive, Mumbai. Since then, Tira has grown its brick-and-mortar presence, currently operating over 13 retail outlets nationwide.

The in-store experience is a significant part of Tira’s appeal, offering an array of modern beauty services such as personalized skincare and makeup consultations, AI-powered virtual try-on tools, tailored beauty routines, and exclusive tutorials featuring signature Tira looks.

With this latest foray into lifestyle, Tira aims to build a deeper emotional connection with its consumers by becoming a part of their daily lives—not just through beauty but through wellness, style, and convenience.

The launch marks a significant milestone in Tira’s growth story as it continues to carve out a distinct niche in India’s fast-evolving beauty and lifestyle market.

Global luggage giant Samsonite has announced a high-profile collaboration with celebrated fashion designer Manish Malhotra, unveiling a new luxury luggage collection aimed at blending timeless style with travel innovation. The partnership marks a significant shift for Samsonite as it ventures further into the premium fashion space.

The campaign for the collection was executed by digital agency Social Beat, which adopted a phased and visually-led storytelling approach. The rollout began subtly, with Manish Malhotra seen carrying an unbranded version of the luggage, sparking intrigue among his followers. This teaser was followed by curated content from key influencers, building anticipation across digital platforms ahead of the official reveal.

At the core of the campaign is a cinematic film that positions the Manish Malhotra x Samsonite collection as an extension of personal style. With minimalist visuals and sophisticated backdrops, the film focuses on design elegance while consciously avoiding overt branding—allowing the product to speak for itself.

Anushree Tainwala, Executive Director, Samsonite South Asia shared, "This collaboration was a milestone for Samsonite—a fusion of our legacy of innovation with Manish Malhotra’s timeless design sensibility. The campaign was crafted to reflect the sophistication of the collection while introducing a bold, fashion-forward chapter in the Samsonite journey."

Ashish Tambe, National Creative Director, Social Beat added, "The campaign had to evoke the emotion of owning a statement. The creative had to tick all the boxes that a launch must—from a brand and product lens—but at the same time, move beyond the tactical and create an aura of a fashion-first international traveller."

Vikas Chawla, Co-founder, Social Beat said, "Collaborating on this unique launch combines our capabilities across creative, films, media and technology. The goal was to build a campaign that did justice to the grandeur of the Manish Malhotra x Samsonite collaboration, and our team brought that vision to life across platforms with creativity, passion, and precision."

The launch campaign adopted a comprehensive 360-degree digital strategy. It centered around Manish Malhotra’s brand identity on social media, with a strong influencer outreach program to boost awareness and engagement. Offline presence was also amplified through hoardings and prominent in-store displays.

Solar energy and the energy-efficient brand Sun King has announced the onboarding of acclaimed Bollywood actor Rajkummar Rao as its new brand ambassador. The brand, known for its solar-powered innovations, aims to provide dependable electricity solutions for households with irregular access to power. Through this collaboration, Sun King hopes to broaden its reach and connect with more individuals looking for cost-effective, eco-friendly energy alternatives.

“I’ve always believed in the kind of change that improves people’s everyday lives. Sun King’s solar and electrical products do exactly that — they bring reliability and peace of mind to homes and families who need it most. I’m proud to support a brand that’s helping India shine, sustainably,” shared Rajkummar Rao.

“Rajkummar Rao stands for the same things we do — real-world impact, trust, and accessibility. Together, we’ll tell stories that reflect the hopes and realities of households across India, and show that sustainable energy is for everyone,” stated Surabhi Sharma, Head of Marketing - Asia at Sun King.

The partnership aligns with Sun King’s core values of impact, accessibility, and trust. With Rajkummar Rao’s widespread appeal and strong resonance with real-life stories, the brand aims to strengthen its emotional connection with consumers across the country.

Sahil Khanna, General Manager for Asia and Latin America at Sun King, highlighted, “Bollywood inspires millions across India, and Rajkummar Rao stands out for his sincerity and connection to real, human stories. He’s the perfect voice to help us share how reliable solar power and smart, energy-efficient appliances can transform everyday life.”

Looking ahead, Sun King is preparing to roll out a series of customer-focused campaigns, beginning with its participation at the upcoming South Asia Forum for Distributed Energy in New Delhi. These initiatives will spotlight the brand’s versatile product offerings and further its mission to make sustainable energy accessible to all. The campaigns will also include a special meet-and-greet opportunity with Rajkummar Rao, planned for top distributors and key partners later this year.

Renowned designer Nishtha Bansal launched her latest couture collection, Alchemy of Love, at the Bombay Times Fashion Week, with actress Rakul Preet Singh walking the ramp as the showstopper. The collection pays homage to the transformative and emotional essence of love, drawing creative inspiration from Gustav Klimt’s iconic painting, The Kiss.

Blending artistic expression with sartorial elegance, the collection explores the duality of love — its strength and softness, its control and surrender. Through a thoughtful fusion of structured silhouettes and fluid drapes, Bansal presents an array of garments that are both bold and ethereal. The designer uses corsetry to represent structure and discipline, while soft fabrics like satin, crepe, and twill bring in a sense of flowing romanticism.

A distinctive element of the collection is the intricately crafted 3D peony, a central motif that showcases the designer’s detailed craftsmanship. Made using traditional techniques such as dabka, resham, and badla embroidery, the floral symbol evokes a timeless elegance while capturing the natural beauty and emotional richness of love.

The collection’s color palette features rich tones of gold, deep red, and green, directly inspired by the shades seen in The Kiss. These hues are carefully integrated to evoke a visceral response, further emphasizing the emotional depth and narrative behind each piece.

“The collection is a perfect reflection of love in all its facets — feminine, bold, and timeless. The detailing and craftsmanship make it feel as if you’re wearing a work of art, and I truly felt the power of love with every step I took down the runway,” stated Rakul Preet Singh.

Designed for modern brides, bridesmaids, and fashion-forward individuals, Alchemy of Love is positioned as a versatile collection that transcends traditional occasion wear. It is a statement of style, emotion, and meaning — offering something timeless for those seeking to embody love in its most expressive form.

The collection is expected to be available at select multi-designer stores across India by the end of May 2025.

KISNA Diamond and Gold Jewellery has unveiled its latest offering — the ‘Akshaya’ Collection, launched in celebration of Akshaya Tritiya, a festival that signifies eternal prosperity, auspicious beginnings, and unending good fortune. The exclusive collection is now available across KISNA’s Shop-in-Shop and Franchise stores nationwide.

Inspired by the profound symbolism of Akshaya Tritiya, the Akshaya Collection is a tribute to abundance and continuity, values deeply rooted in Indian culture and tradition. Rather than relying on conventional motifs, the collection embraces organic, rhythmic designs that echo nature’s patterns, such as blooming petals, flowing vines, and symmetrical growth, capturing the essence of ongoing prosperity and spiritual richness.

Comprising 236 meticulously designed pieces, the collection includes 107 necklace and earring sets, pendant and earring sets, and intricately crafted bangles. Each piece is available in 18K and 14K gold, offering a blend of tradition and contemporary elegance tailored for the modern consumer who seeks both luxury and meaningful design.

The creative journey behind every piece in the Akshaya Collection reflects KISNA’s commitment to artistry and innovation. The design process begins with extensive research into classical Indian dance forms and natural patterns, followed by hand-drawn sketches, 3D modeling, wax prototyping, gemstone setting, and finally, precision finishing. This comprehensive approach ensures each creation is not just a piece of jewellery, but a work of art that connects tradition with modern craftsmanship.

KISNA is also marking the launch with nationwide promotional campaigns, striking in-store visual merchandising, and exclusive hero piece displays designed to capture customer attention and celebrate the festive spirit.

Parag Shah, CEO, Kisna Diamond and Gold Jewellery said, "Jewellery is more than adornment; it is a reflection of emotions, traditions, and cherished milestones. With our Akshaya collection, we sought to create designs that not only honor the significance of this auspicious occasion but also deepen the personal connection between jewellery and its owner.The collections go beyond heritage; they offer timeless elegance and meaning, making them perfect for celebrating new beginnings."

With this new launch, KISNA continues its journey of merging craftsmanship with cultural resonance, offering pieces that are not only visually stunning but also deeply symbolic, making them a fitting choice for commemorating moments of prosperity, joy, and new beginnings during Akshaya Tritiya.

Bombay Shaving Company has unveiled its most purpose-driven innovation yet — Eco Sensi 3, a sustainable, Made-in-India razor designed for both high performance and low environmental impact. The product was launched as part of the brand’s signature monthly event, the 18-hour store, held on April 18 at 1800 hours, for 18 hours, exclusively on the brand’s website.

Marking a significant milestone in its sustainability journey, the company introduced Eco Sensi 3 under the banner of a powerful new nationwide initiative — a campaign for shaving with a clear conscience. Positioned as more than just a product launch, this campaign aims to spark a deeper cultural shift toward intentional grooming and environmental mindfulness.

To amplify its message, Bombay Shaving Company has released a thought-provoking short film titled “Where Do All the Razors Go?”, featuring Founder & CEO Shantanu Deshpande. The film sheds light on the environmental cost of disposable razors and urges consumers to reflect on the long-term consequences of daily routines. It calls on the younger generation to make more informed and sustainable choices.

“The shaving category has long needed a rethink — not just in terms of performance, but in the impact, it leaves behind. Today’s consumers expect more — they want products built with purpose. Eco Sensi 3 is our answer: a razor that performs brilliantly, respects the planet, and is proudly made in India. It reflects our long-term vision to lead grooming into a more intentional, sustainable future. At Bombay Shaving Company, we’re committed to creating products that are Sensi on Skin and Sensi on the Planet,” shared Deepak Gupta, Co-Founder & COO, Bombay Shaving Company. 

At the heart of this campaign lies a powerful message: shaving can care for both you and the environment. With Earth Day approaching, the company emphasizes, “There are two kinds of stubbles: one on your face, and one in our fields and landfills. This Earth Day, India shaves both.” The campaign, titled #IndiaShavesItsStubble, aims to usher in a more intentional, sustainable grooming culture.

Eco Sensi 3 is a result of Bombay Shaving Company’s commitment to responsible innovation. It features a reusable handle made from a blend of coconut shell and rice husk, offering a strong yet eco-conscious alternative to plastic-based razors. The razor includes a three-blade cartridge designed for a smooth, comfortable shave, while significantly reducing environmental impact. The launch pack, which includes one eco-friendly handle and two premium cartridges, is priced at an affordable INR 179, making sustainable shaving more accessible to a wider audience.

Fossil has announced its latest collaboration with Disney, launching a Special Edition timepiece on April 7, 2025, as part of its expanding collectibles line. This new product combines elements of sport, character design, and mechanical craftsmanship, aiming to appeal to both Disney collectors and golf enthusiasts.

The launch features Mickey Mouse integrated into Fossil’s Heritage design, showcasing a fresh interpretation of the iconic character. The watch includes a skeletonized white dial textured to resemble a golf ball, with a unique visual twist—Mickey Mouse mid-swing acts as the minute hand, while a flying golf ball marks each hour. This animated design is built around an automatic movement, visible through the open-work dial, allowing wearers to appreciate the internal mechanics in motion.

“This Special Edition timepiece is a must-have for Disney collectors and golf enthusiasts alike, featuring Mickey Mouse in Fossil’s sleek Heritage design. The skeletonized white dial showcases a dimpled golf ball texture, while a graphic applique of Mickey mid-swing serves as the minute hand, with a flying golf ball marking each hour. Powered by the natural motion of your wrist, the intricate mechanics are visible through the open dial— a true conversation starter on the green.”

Priced at Rs. 34,495, the launch strengthens Fossil’s positioning in the premium watch segment while tapping into cross-generational nostalgia and themed experiences.

The product is part of a wider strategy to bring collectible editions to niche enthusiast segments, further reinforcing Fossil’s licensing collaborations with entertainment brands. The Disney x Fossil timepiece is now available in select markets and is expected to draw attention from fashion retailers and lifestyle curators alike.

Victorinox has announced the launch of the I.N.O.X. Chrono India Edition, an exclusive collection developed specifically for the Indian market. The release features a limited run of 500 timepieces, with two variants comprising 250 units each, as part of the brand’s broader strategy to expand in key international markets through regionally tailored offerings.

Crafted with insights into Indian consumer preferences and seasonal demand peaks driven by cultural festivities, the India Edition marks Victorinox’s entry into locally-adapted product lines. The collection includes two models: one featuring a rose gold PVD case and bezel, and another with a rose gold PVD case paired with a black PVD bezel, both accompanied by black rubber straps.

Debraj Sengupta, Managing Director-Sales & Marketing, Victorinox India shared, "We had to have something special for India as this is a great way to connect with our culturally strong country. Hence, we launched the Rose Gold I.N.O.X. Chronograph in two versions—it’s the right connect for the myriad festivals that Indians enjoy. We made the right watch, a perfect fit for all the ceremonies that we celebrate in our country, 250 units of each, which is a total of 500 pieces. ‘Prepared for Excellence’ isn’t just a tagline; it’s a testament to this watch’s craftsmanship. A unique fusion of Swiss precision and Indian spirit."

The I.N.O.X. Chrono India Edition is engineered for durability and performance, equipped with shock resistance, antimagnetic protection, ISO-certified water resistance up to 200 meters, and a chronograph movement. The product has been designed and manufactured at the Victorinox Watch Competence Center in Delémont, Switzerland.

“I.N.O.X. is the most iconic Victorinox watch collection and is the inspiration behind our new design approach. We have blended elegance, strong geometrics, and industrial codes in a combination of functionality, resistance, and innovative material mixes. The outcome reflects our industrial-derived ability to deliver modern sophistication.” Both timepiece styles will only be available in India,” explained Arianna Frésard, Head of Category Watches, Victorinox.

Available exclusively in India, the timepieces are being retailed through Victorinox brand stores and select outlets across major cities, including Mumbai, Indore, Ahmedabad, Pune, Gurugram, New Delhi, Chennai, and Bengaluru. The product is priced at Rs. 89,000 and comes with a 5-year warranty. Online availability includes platforms such as helioswatchstore.com, tatacliq.com, nykaaman.com, ajio.com, and other leading e-commerce marketplaces.

Motorola has announced actress Rasha Thadani as the brand ambassador for its soon-to-be-launched laptop, the Moto Book 60, and tablet, the Moto Pad 60 Pro. As part of this year-long collaboration, Rasha will feature in promotional campaigns for both upcoming devices.

Positioning itself in bold new product categories, Motorola brings its signature style and innovation to the laptop and tablet space. With her energetic persona and strong Gen Z appeal, Rasha Thadani is seen as a natural extension of the brand’s vision.

The Moto Book 60 is designed with a focus on the Gen Z demographic, offering high performance, smart features, and seamless integration. Notably, it comes in Pantone-curated colours that distinguish it from the typical laptop aesthetic. Both the laptop and tablet represent Motorola’s continued efforts to create a connected, forward-looking tech environment. Key highlights include a slim design, Smart Connect capabilities, and a vibrant color palette.

The campaign debuts with a TV commercial featuring Rasha Thadani alongside the Moto Book 60. Set in a subway backdrop, the ad captures her walking confidently with the laptop in hand, drawing attention to the bold new colours—breaking away from the usual grey and silver tones. The campaign centers around the tagline ‘COLOUR ME MOTO’, with devices set to be available from April 17, 2025.

Shivam Ranjan, Head of Marketing, APAC, Motorola stated, "We are happy to welcome Rasha Thadani as the face of the moto pad 60 pro and moto book 60 in India. As we expand our product portfolio with the launch of our first laptop and a new generation of tablets, we were looking for a personality who embodies the spirit of creativity and versatility. Rasha’s refreshing presence, modern outlook, and growing influence among the youth make her a perfect fit to represent our brand. Her association with the moto pad 60 pro and moto book 60 reflects our vision of empowering the next generation with smart, stylish, and performance-driven technology. We are confident that this partnership will resonate with young consumers, especially Gen Z, and further strengthen Motorola’s position in the lifestyle tech ecosystem." 

Rasha Thadani said, "I'm super excited to be associated with Motorola for the launch of the moto pad 60 pro and moto book 60. As someone who’s always juggling work and learning about new stuff, I love how these devices bring together style, performance, and smart features integrated with AI that actually make a difference. It’s amazing to be part of a brand that’s constantly innovating to make tech more intuitive and empowering for young users like me with meaningful innovations.”

With this collaboration, Motorola is not just introducing two new devices, but also strengthening its identity as a lifestyle-centric tech brand. As the company ventures into the laptop and tablet segments, its choice of ambassador and product design choices reflect a clear commitment to capturing the imagination of India’s younger, digitally native generation.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has introduced its own Chess Set — a modern interpretation of the classic strategy game, designed to reflect the brand’s focus on shared experiences and refined lifestyle elements that appeal across cultures and generations. The product marks a continuation of the brand’s focus on luxury craftsmanship beyond automotive design.

The Rolls-Royce Chess Set is the result of a year-long design and engineering process. Intended to evoke the same sense of ceremony as a Rolls-Royce motor car, the board opens in a single theatrical motion, revealing a set of magnetised chess pieces. These sculptural forms are made of ceramic-coated aluminium and are housed in a leather-lined holder that elevates gently when the board is opened.

Each set includes hidden drawers with extra queens to accommodate promoted pieces. Magnets embedded beneath the surface help maintain precision in gameplay by keeping the pieces aligned. The board itself features aluminium edges and a discreet Spirit of Ecstasy emblem on both the front and back.

“We are in the privileged position of knowing our clients personally. These relationships – and the unique insights they provide into our clients’ worlds, tastes, and preferences – inform everything we do at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. Knowing that many clients enjoy chess — often at an extremely high level — we were inspired to create our own Chess Set as a natural evolution of the sense of hosting and occasion that defines the Rolls-Royce experience. Incorporating materials and the meticulous craft techniques our clients know and love from their motor car, the Chess Set is a discreet, beautiful, and authentic extension of our brand into their homes. It serves as a contemporary work of art in its own right, as well as a practical, playable game," Nick Abrams, Accessories Designer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

The materials used for the chess set mirror those in Rolls-Royce vehicles. The board is offered in four veneer options, including high-gloss Blackwood with Ceramic White and Macassar Ebony with Royal Walnut, as well as open-pore Smoked Eucalyptus with Paldao and Obsidian Ayous with Blackwood.

Clients can choose from 13 leather colours to customize both the outer casing and the interior piece holder. The veneer squares are laser-cut and placed by hand to maintain grain consistency, and the aluminium playing grid is machined and finished manually to retain sharp detailing.

The chess pieces themselves are designed with monolithic silhouettes and are finished in either satin black or iridescent white, with polished stainless-steel heads. According to the company, the tactile quality and weight of the pieces are meant to evoke components found in the brand’s vehicle interiors, such as the solid-metal organ stops.

The Rolls-Royce Chess Set is now available for commission through the brand’s showrooms and Private Office boutiques.

Skincare major NIVEA has announced the appointment of Taapsee Pannu as its first-ever Indian global brand ambassador. The announcement was made in conjunction with the launch of NIVEA Soft Daily UV, a new addition to its product portfolio that combines 48-hour moisturisation with UV protection.

The newly launched product is part of NIVEA’s ongoing strategy to strengthen its position in the skincare segment by addressing evolving consumer needs for multifunctional products. A new television commercial featuring Pannu has also been released, positioning the product as a daily-use moisturiser suited for sun exposure and hydration.

 “I’ve always believed that skincare should be simple, effective and effortless. With NIVEA Soft Daily UV, I get the hydration my skin needs and the UV protection it deserves, all in one lightweight formula. It’s the perfect daily companion for fresh and glowing skin,” shared Taapsee Pannu, Brand Ambassador, Nivea.

Shweta Dalal, Marketing Director, NIVEA India, commented, "At NIVEA, we continuously innovate to bring the best skincare solutions to our consumers. With NIVEA Soft Daily UV, we’re addressing the growing need for everyday hydration with added UV protection in a formula that remains true to the much-loved NIVEA Soft experience. We are excited to introduce this game-changing product to our Indian consumers."
 

The launch also aligns with a significant corporate milestone. Vincent Warnery, Global CEO of Beiersdorf, NIVEA’s parent company, visited India in February this year, where he met Taapsee Pannu to mark her appointment as the brand’s global face from India. The visit reinforces the strategic importance of the Indian market to Beiersdorf's global plans, especially in the skincare category.

With this development, NIVEA further strengthens its positioning in the Indian skincare segment while highlighting its commitment to inclusive representation and product innovation tailored for local needs.

Britannia Industries, in collaboration with WPP and powered by Google Gemini’s Vertex AI Multimodal Live, has introduced a pilot initiative titled Britannia A-Eye. Designed to enhance in-store accessibility, the solution focuses on improving retail navigation for visually impaired consumers. The project has been developed in partnership with MORE Retail and Mithra Jyoti, an NGO supporting the visually impaired community.

The initiative reflects a strategic integration of AI and retail enablement technologies. The pilot utilizes Google Astra's multimodal capabilities to create a smartphone-based assistant that interprets in-store environments in real time. By scanning their surroundings via smartphone cameras, users receive audio prompts that help them move through aisles, identify Britannia products, and access essential product data such as ingredients, prices, nutritional values, and expiry dates.

This functionality is currently enabled for Britannia’s product portfolio and custom-configured to store-specific layouts. The broader vision of this AI application aims to eliminate the dependence on human assistance and establish a more autonomous shopping experience for consumers with visual impairments.

Siddharth Gupta, General Manager - Marketing, Britannia Industries said, "At Britannia, we believe that technology has the power to break barriers and create a more inclusive world. Britannia A-Eye is a testament to how innovation can revolutionize inclusivity in retail. This initiative is not just about leveraging cutting-edge technology—it’s about fostering equity and independence for all consumers. We are proud to be at the forefront of this transformation and look forward to shaping the future of inclusive retail.”

Daniel Hulme, Chief AI Officer, WPP mentioned, "Our partnership with Google is about pushing the boundaries of AI-driven innovation. With Britannia A-Eye, we’re not just creating technology—we’re redefining inclusivity in retail, proving that AI can be a force for good, transforming lives and empowering communities. While this initiative is still in its early days, it holds the promise of fundamentally changing the way retail is experienced, ensuring accessibility is not an afterthought but a standard for all."

Amar Jain, Co-Founder of Mission Accessibility, lawyer and a key advocate for accessibility said, "For the visually impaired, the ability to shop independently is not just about convenience—it’s about dignity. Britannia A-Eye is a powerful step towards ensuring that visually impaired individuals can experience shopping as it should be—autonomous, seamless, and barrier-free. It’s inspiring to see technology being used in such a transformative way, and I hope this paves the way for a more inclusive ecosystem across industries."

Vidhyashankar Jayaraman Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer, More Retail Pvt. Ltd. commented, "Retail should be accessible to all, and Britannia A-Eye is a bold step towards making that vision a reality. This initiative ensures that visually impaired shoppers can navigate stores and make informed decisions independently. We are proud to be part of a movement that is setting new standards in inclusive retail."

The pilot project is currently operational at the MORE Supermarket in TC Palya, Bengaluru, with consumer access enabled from March 28, 2025. The effort reflects a larger shift in the licensing and retail ecosystem, where AI partnerships are increasingly deployed to address accessibility challenges through scalable, tech-powered solutions.

Indian streetwear and sneaker retailer Superkicks has formally launched its new cultural initiative, Air.Wav, on March 26, 2025. The project marks the brand’s latest move into original content creation, combining music and fashion culture as part of a broader strategy to develop its intellectual property (IP) portfolio.

Air.Wav is designed to bridge the influence of independent music with the cultural relevance of sneakers, particularly celebrating the legacy of Nike’s Air Max. With this launch, Superkicks has entered the creative IP and licensing space, positioning the project for potential multi-platform rights use across digital streaming, branded entertainment, and experiential formats.

The original track produced under Air.Wav features emerging Indian hip-hop artists RAK, Tienas, and Feni Fina, supported by producers Dhiraaj and 3BHK. The collaboration merges various musical genres such as hip-hop, rap, baile funk, and experimental electronic, providing opportunities for future content licensing, synchronization, and partnerships.

Sangeet Paryani, CEO and Co-Founder, Superkicks commented, "Superkicks has always been more than just a retail space; it's a community hub. We have sought to nurture street culture and independent music since day one. Through our Co-Sign platform, we have highlighted over 30 artists, giving them a platform to showcase their work. Air.Wav is a bold new step in our journey, and we're excited to continue pushing boundaries and paving the way for global collaborations in the years to come."

The project also includes a short documentary filmed at Subculture Studios in Khar, Mumbai, capturing behind-the-scenes footage of the production process and interviews with the artists and Paryani. The film further supports the IP framework of the initiative, opening avenues for branded video licensing and cross-platform distribution.

To mark the release, Superkicks hosted an exclusive launch event at Iron Buzz Tattoo Studio, providing a first look at the track and documentary. The event served as a physical touchpoint for brand engagement, artist interaction, and future brand-led cultural collaborations.

The name Air.Wav plays on both the idea of sound waves and the iconic Air Max technology—symbolizing the convergence of music, movement, and subcultural identity. As Superkicks evolves from a retail platform into a content-driven cultural brand, Air.Wav sets a precedent for how retailers can invest in and license original content as a brand asset.

The track is now available on all major streaming platforms, marking Superkicks’ first official step into music licensing and original IP creation.

In celebration of World Art Day, lifestyle and travel gear brand EUME has unveiled a bold new limited-edition collection that turns movement into a masterpiece. In an unprecedented collaboration with five avant-garde artists, the brand has launched a series of 24 exclusive bags and accessories that blend art, fashion, and function, transforming travel essentials into collectible works of art.

This unique collection showcases EUME’s signature approach to design, where movement is seen not just as physical transit but as a deeply emotional, cultural, and personal journey. The collection reflects this philosophy through striking visual storytelling and creative craftsmanship. Every piece is a canvas—featuring vivid prints, intricate detailing, and sculptural, tactile elements—making each accessory an immersive artistic experience.

The collaboration brings together an eclectic mix of artists, each known for their bold voices and boundary-pushing styles. Chaitanya Dixit, celebrated for his contemporary interpretations of mythology, merges ancient themes with modern relevance. Guncha Sharma, also known as Gunchakoi, uses bright, rebellious visuals to challenge traditional perspectives. Mooz, a digital and graffiti artist, explores fluidity and motion through experimental forms. Doodle Mopez reimagines the everyday through abstract expressions, while Bhavna Jasra brings emotional depth to the collection with sculptural impressions of fleeting moments.

Naina Parekh, Founder, EUME said, “Art has the power to transform the everyday—and that’s exactly what we set out to do with this collection. To celebrate World Art Day, we’re unveiling a limited-edition series that merges the worlds of creative expression and travel. By turning our 100% aluminium luggage into bold, mobile canvases, we’ve created pieces that aren’t just functional—they’re statements, collectables, and stories in motion. Luggage is often seen as purely utilitarian, but with this initiative, we’re giving it a new voice—one that speaks through bold visuals, intentional craftsmanship, and true individuality. You don’t usually travel with art. But now, with these cases, you can travel as art.”

Crafted with high-definition printing, textured embossing, and premium materials, each piece is designed to preserve the integrity of the original artwork while offering durability and functionality. These aren’t just accessories—they are bold statements of individuality and creativity.

Indian contemporary fashion label Ancestry has announced the launch of its Spring/Summer 2025 collection, titled Wabi-Sabi. The drop marks the brand’s first release for the season and signals Ancestry’s continued alignment with cross-cultural design integration. Drawing from the Japanese design philosophy of accepting imperfection and minimalism, the collection builds on Ancestry’s focus on blending traditional aesthetics with global relevance—a strategy that positions it for growth across licensing and collaborative retail channels.

The official unveiling took place at Ancestry’s flagship store at Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj on April 10, 2025. The event featured actress Shefali Shah as a guest, underscoring the brand’s growing alignment with public figures and influencers as it strengthens its consumer-facing identity.
 

The Wabi-Sabi collection includes silhouettes such as kaftans, co-ord sets, kurtas, and shirts, which are designed to transition between formal and casual wear. Using natural fabrics such as linen, crepe, and poplin, the line maintains its utility for the Indian summer while appealing to environmentally conscious markets. The minimalist aesthetic and subdued color palette cater to an international audience seeking culturally rooted, seasonally adaptive apparel.

Significantly, the collection also integrates Ajrakh—a traditional Indian block-print technique—recontextualized through a contemporary lens. This reinforces Ancestry’s interest in licensing traditional Indian crafts for new retail formats, both within India and abroad.

According to the brand, Wabi-Sabi is structured around core principles of simplicity and restraint, offering a business case for deeper merchandising extensions and potential third-party licensing partnerships focused on textile-based design.

The collection is currently available across Ancestry’s offline retail network and is scheduled to launch online from April 15, 2025. The new release opens pathways for strategic licensing and retail expansion while maintaining alignment with the brand’s heritage-focused storytelling.

Piccadily Agro Industries Limited, the parent company of Indri, has introduced its latest release, the Indri Founder’s Reserve 11-Year-Old Single Malt Whisky. The limited-edition release not only reflects the evolution of Indian whisky craftsmanship but also marks a strategic licensing opportunity as the brand expands its international footprint.

This new expression commemorates the legacy of Pt. Kidar Nath Sharma, the founder of Piccadily Group. Developed as a tribute to his vision and leadership, the Indri Founder’s Reserve has been aged for 11 years in ex-Bordeaux red wine casks at the company’s distillery in northern India. The climate at the Indri facility—where temperatures fluctuate from 0°C in winter to 50°C in summer—significantly influences the aging process, resulting in a richer, more complex flavour profile compared to traditional aging environments.

The whisky has been released in two variants: one bottled at 50 percent ABV for the Indian market, and the other at 58.5 percent ABV for international distribution. With only 1,100 bottles produced globally—evenly split between domestic and overseas markets—the limited release is designed to appeal to collectors and whisky connoisseurs, and is supported by a curated licensing and distribution strategy to maintain exclusivity.

Indri Founder’s Reserve has received multiple accolades from respected international spirits competitions. These include a Gold medal at the World Whisky Awards 2025, where it was named Category Winner in the Single Malt 12 Years & Under segment. It also secured Gold with 90 points at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and was ranked #8 in the Top 15 Whiskies of the World by the International Whisky Competition, where it also earned the title of Best Single Malt Indian Whisky with a score of 95.09 points.

“Indri Founder’s Reserve 11-Year-Old single malt is a symbol of India’s ascension in the world of fine single malt whisky. Aged to perfection and crafted with care, this expression embodies the essence of our founder’s dream: to create world-class Indian single malt whisky with soul, structure, and enduring quality,” shared Shalini Sharma, Head of Marketing, Piccadily Agro Industries Limited.

Through this launch, Piccadily Agro continues to position India as an emerging player in the premium whisky segment. The company’s focused licensing strategy and global release reinforce its intent to establish Indri as a serious contender among internationally recognized single malts. The Founder’s Reserve, in particular, is being marketed as a high-value licensed asset for select distributors and retailers, aligning product scarcity with targeted brand positioning.

This latest release underscores the evolving capabilities of Indian distillers and affirms Piccadily Agro’s vision to take Indian-made single malts to global markets, backed by authenticity, quality, and strategic licensing partnerships.

Reliance Jewels has launched the 10th edition of its regional jewellery initiative, Jewels of India, with the Tirupati collection—an assortment inspired by the spiritual and cultural heritage of Tirupati. The launch aligns with Akshaya Tritiya, a key gold-buying occasion in India, and is available across the brand’s nationwide retail network and digital platforms.

With each edition, the initiative has focused on showcasing the cultural and architectural motifs of Indian states through jewellery designs. Previous editions have featured interpretations of heritage elements from regions such as Karnataka, Rajasthan, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh.

This year’s Tirupati edition draws from the city’s temple architecture, the Tirumala Hills, and the imagery associated with Lord Balaji. The product range includes gold and diamond jewellery, with pieces spanning long necklaces, chokers, bangles, earrings, and daily-wear options designed to reflect spiritual themes while maintaining commercial wearability. The launch highlights a growing trend in culturally licensed products that integrate regional art into accessible luxury formats.

Sunil Nayak, CEO, Reliance Jewels said, “Jewellery is more than an adornment; it is a timeless expression of heritage, faith, and divine connection. The Jewels of India Tirupati collection is a heartfelt tribute to Lord Balaji, with his blessings imbued in every piece. It beautifully embodies the spirit of Akshaya Tritiya – a festival that signifies abundance and auspiciousness. With every piece of this collection, we are honoured to bring this sacred sentiment to life.” 

In addition to high-end offerings, the Tirupati collection includes lightweight licensed designs positioned for everyday use. This move supports Reliance Jewels’ broader strategy of tapping into devotional and regional sentiments to appeal to a diverse consumer base across the country.

To support seasonal demand during Akshaya Tritiya, the brand has announced a promotional window ending May 5, with up to 25 percent off on gold jewellery making charges and up to 30 percent off on diamond jewellery. It is also offering a 100 percent exchange value on old gold, a strategic initiative aimed at increasing footfall and driving conversions during the festive season.