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Start following Kiara Advani’s simple yet powerful morning ritual for glowing skin

Have you ever stopped to marvel at Kiara Advani’s radiant and flawless skin? In the exquisite glamour that is Bollywood, Kiara Advani stands out not just for her acting genius but also for her luminous and healthy skin. Amidst the overwhelming myriad of options surfaced by the beauty industry, this simple yet transformative ritual is not only a fad, but the cornerstone of her radiance.

 

The secret might be simpler than you think. It’s not a gruelling workout or a 10-step skincare routine; it’s a simple cup of warm water, with a slice of lemon in it. Kiara’s morning habit of indulging in warm water infused with the zest of fresh lemons has become a conscious choice rooted in her approach to holistic well-being. The actress recommends this refreshing elixir not only for its skin-enhancing benefits but also for the multiple benefits it has in improving your overall health and vitality.  

 

Hansa Yogendra, Director of The Yoga Institute in one of her videos on the health benefits of lemons mentioned, “Drinking one glass of lemon water every day in the morning will benefit you for a lifetime”.  Her claim can further be supported by a research published in the Journal of Science and Technology which reveals that “It is a healthy appetiser and helps to treat diseases with digestive aids. Lemon does not disclose any adverse effects, according to literature, but it is used all over the world as a traditional medicine”. Vitamin C, which is abundantly present in lemons, fights toxins and increases collagen production in the body, both of which help in treating acne as well as tightening the skin and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. While lemons are famously known for their Vitamin C component, not many people are aware of their Potassium-rich skin, which is an important mineral for nervous stimulation as well as maintaining blood pressure. Here are a few more benefits of adding lemon water to your everyday diet:- 

  • Immediately soothes muscle cramps
  • Peptin in lemons makes us feel fuller, thereby, helping in weight loss
  • Boosts immunity by stimulating the production of White Blood Cells in the body
  • Removal of kidney stones 
  • The lemon peel when infused in water for 30 minutes, activates its bioactive compounds which boost immunity and prevent our bodies from cellular damage
  • It also helps in the release of digestive enzymes which help in better absorption of nutrients

 

This simple kitchen hack has proudly made its way into the celebrity wellness circuit. Not only Kiara Advani but also Alia Bhatt, Deepika Padukone, Kriti Sanon, and Malaika Arora have this one drink in common at the break of dawn.

Here are 3 ways, you can incorporate the lemon water glow into your morning routine:- 

  1. Warm ginger lemon tea- Boil a glass of water with crushed ginger. When its done, squeeze a lemon into your glass and have it warm. To enjoy it in place of your morning tea, you may add a teaspoon of honey to it.

2. Ginger lemon shot – Take an inch of ginger root, and one squeezed lemon. Add enough water to blend it (3-4 tablespoons) in a blender, and have it as a morning shot.

3. Lemon-infused detox water- Cut up slices of one lemon and add it to your water bottle. Have 1-2 glasses of lemon water in the morning, and keep having the rest throughout the day. 

While lemon water offers a myriad of health benefits, it’s crucial to exercise moderation. One lemon a day is a healthy limit, and people with gastroesophageal reflux disease should be cautious about excessive lemon juice intake. As with any dietary rituals, balance is key to ensuring you enjoy the advantages without overdoing it. 

India’s CCI Fast-Tracks Investigation Into Apple’s Business Practices

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India’s CCI Fast-Tracks Investigation Into Apple’s Business Practices

India’s antitrust body, the Competition Commission of India (CCI), is moving swiftly to advance its investigation into Apple’s business conduct, following a decision to grant major tech companies access to confidential details prior to the final hearing in the case.

The CCI has accused Apple of using its dominant position in the market to violate competition laws, a charge that, if proven, could result in a significant penalty for the tech giant.

CCI Establishes a “Confidentiality Ring”

In a recent development, CCI agreed to establish a “confidentiality ring” before proceeding with the final hearing, according to sources familiar with the matter. This step is part of the regulatory body’s efforts to streamline the case.

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The final hearing is expected to begin early next year, with Apple and other select parties granted access to sensitive information related to the probe under the confidentiality ring arrangement. Apple will then likely be given four weeks to review the information and submit a response.

What Does the Confidentiality Ring Do? 

The confidentiality ring ensures that confidential data is handled properly throughout the investigation process, allowing for quicker resolution of cases. As part of this process, Apple and other involved entities will be allowed to inspect the probe documents and potentially receive certified copies. The investigation, initiated in 2021, revolves around Apple’s in-app purchase system, which charges developers a commission of up to 30%. The CCI’s findings suggested that Apple’s practices were harmful to developers, users, and other payment service providers.

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In August, Apple raised concerns about the disclosure of its commercial secrets during the investigation, which led the CCI to order that all reports be returned and destroyed before issuing new versions of the documents.

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Government Orders Investigation into Discriminatory Cab Fare Pricing on Android and iOS Devices

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Government Orders Investigation into Discriminatory Cab Fare Pricing on Android and iOS Devices

Union Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi has instructed the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) to conduct a thorough investigation into reports that ride-hailing platforms are displaying different fare prices for the same ride on Android and iOS devices. 

The investigation will also expand to cover other sectors, such as food delivery apps and online ticket booking services.

Union Minister Takes Cognisance  

Sharing the report from The Times of India, Joshi tweeted, “This seems to be an unfair trade practice where cab aggregators are allegedly using differential pricing based on factors highlighted in the article. If true, this is a blatant violation of the consumer’s right to transparency. I’ve directed @jagograhakjago through CCPA to look into this and present a report as soon as possible. I’ve also asked them to investigate other sectors like food delivery and online ticket booking.”

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Officials indicated that they will gather evidence, reach out to ride-hailing platforms, and investigate similar practices in food delivery and ticket booking services. Former Consumer Affairs Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh condemned the practice, calling it discriminatory and a form of “dark pattern” unfair trade. He noted that such pricing practices use device data without consumers’ consent.

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CCPA Has Delved into Such Issues Before 

This is not the first time that the CCPA has intervened in matters related to ride-hailing services. Both Uber and Ola have previously complied with directions aimed at safeguarding consumer rights. Officials are now taking a closer look at how widespread the practice of differential pricing is and whether it extends beyond the ride-hailing industry to other digital platforms.

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Archies Expands into GCC Market with Strategic Partnership

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Archies Expands into GCC Market with Strategic Partnership

Archies has officially entered the GCC retail market through a strategic partnership with Al Hasnae Gifts, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion plans. This collaboration launches Archies’ presence in the UAE, with future plans to extend into Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain, broadening its reach in the Middle East.

Top Executive Shares his Statement 

Varun Moolchandani, Executive Director of Archies, expressed his excitement about the venture: “We are thrilled to team up with Al Hasnae Gifts as we embark on this journey in the GCC. This partnership is a vital step towards bringing joy and fostering emotional bonds through our unique gifting range.” He further emphasized the opportunity in the region, saying, “The GCC market is vibrant with immense potential, and we look forward to introducing Archies’ timeless gifting products to a new audience. It’s especially exciting for the NRI community, who will now have a chance to reconnect with Archies and share meaningful gifts, particularly during festivals that are deeply cherished.”

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Archies’ products are now available in key retail outlets across the GCC, thanks to Al Hasnae Gifts’ established network in the region. Retail partners include Carrefour (MAF Retail), ADCOOP stores in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, and Union Co-op locations in Dubai. The partnership also strengthens Archies’ presence on prominent online retail platforms, offering an integrated omnichannel shopping experience.

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Archies Has Grand Plans for the Future 

Looking ahead, Archies plans to further expand into Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain, aiming to provide a diverse range of high-quality gifting solutions. This collaboration not only promises enhanced market access but also ensures a seamless shopping experience for customers both in-store and online, setting the stage for a successful first year with expected revenues of AED 7–8 million.

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India’s 2024 Spending Surge: Quick Commerce Dominates Beyond Groceries

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India’s 2024 Spending Surge: Quick Commerce Dominates Beyond Groceries

India’s growing appetite for convenience and fast deliveries continued to dominate in 2024, revealing intriguing consumer spending habits across the country.

Swiggy Instamart’s recent report sheds light on a remarkable rise in orders, not just limited to groceries but also extending to an array of products from makeup and toys to vacuum cleaners. The data, gathered between January 1 and December 1, 2024, highlights fascinating trends in how Indians are increasingly turning to quick commerce platforms for a wide range of goods.

Cities with the Highest Spenders 

Delhi and Dehradun emerged as the cities with the highest spenders, with both places seeing customers spending more than Rs 20 lakh each on the platform. The most popular purchases were kitchen staples such as atta, milk, and oil, reflecting a strong demand for everyday essentials.

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Nationally, the top five items ordered were milk, curd, dosa batter, chips, and soft drinks. In fact, one in every 15 orders included milk, while fruits or vegetables appeared in about one in five orders. This suggests a consistent demand for basic household necessities.

Key Insights from the Report

The report also highlighted some standout spending moments. For instance, one user spent a staggering Rs 8.3 lakh on gold during Dhanteras, while on Valentine’s Day, the platform saw an average of 307 roses being ordered every minute. Other notable purchases included a Chennai shopper who spent Rs 1.25 lakh on electronics and home appliances, which included nearly 85 items like gaming earphones, smartwatches, and an induction cooker.

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This surge in spending reveals the growing role of quick commerce platforms in not just delivering groceries, but in offering a vast range of products to meet the diverse needs of consumers across India.

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India Set to Become Apple’s Third-Largest Market by 2026

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India Set to Become Apple’s Third-Largest Market by 2026

India is on track to become Apple’s third-largest market by 2026, following the US and China, with local sales expected to surge by up to 20% next year, potentially reaching 15 million units. 

India is Apple’s 5th Largest Market

This growth comes as Apple shifts its focus to emerging markets like India to offset its shrinking market share in China, which has been impacted by Huawei’s resurgence.

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Currently, India ranks as Apple’s fifth-largest market, with Japan and the UK in the third and fourth spots, respectively. Experts suggest that India’s growing middle class, increasing availability of financing options, and a shift towards premium products are key drivers behind Apple’s sales growth. With rising disposable incomes, Indian consumers are increasingly opting for higher-end devices, which benefits Apple’s exclusive focus on the premium segment.

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Apple has a Bright Future in India

The company’s performance in India is expected to accelerate further, with financing options playing a significant role in making premium smartphones more accessible. During festivals, Apple also benefits from steep discounts, which fuel the demand for its devices. According to Counterpoint Research, Apple is forecasted to ship 8.5 million units in the third quarter of 2024 and is expected to add another 4 million units in the December quarter, driven by strong demand for its latest iPhone models.

“India is likely to become the third-largest market for Apple in terms of shipments by 2026,” said Counterpoint’s Research Market Outlook, highlighting how the availability of financing is helping make premium Apple gadgets more affordable for an increasingly consumption-driven population.

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OYO Travelopedia 2024: Spiritual Destinations Shine, Hyderabad Tops Bookings and Leisure Travel Sees a Boom

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OYO Travelopedia 2024: Spiritual Destinations Shine, Hyderabad Tops Bookings and Leisure Travel Sees a Boom

OYO’s annual report, Travelopedia 2024, highlights intriguing trends in India’s travel habits, showcasing a clear preference for spiritual tourism while also spotlighting the rise of less-traveled destinations. 

Puri, Varanasi, and Haridwar are the top spiritual spots this year, attracting the most pilgrims. However, the report also notes a noticeable uptick in visitors to lesser-known sites like Deoghar, Palani, and Govardhan, which indicates a growing curiosity for unconventional spiritual locations.

Hyderabad Tops the List 

When it comes to urban travel, Hyderabad leads as the most-booked city in India for 2024, followed by major hubs such as Bengaluru, Delhi, and Kolkata. Uttar Pradesh remains the top state for bookings, but other regions like Maharashtra, Telangana, and Karnataka are also seeing strong demand. Interestingly, smaller cities such as Patna, Rajahmundry, and Hubli have experienced significant growth, with bookings increasing nearly 48% year-on-year, reflecting a desire for less crowded, offbeat destinations.

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Leisure travel trends also saw a shift this year. Jaipur continued to be a favorite, with Goa, Pondicherry, and Mysore trailing behind. Surprisingly, Mumbai saw a decline in leisure travel as more tourists opted for nearby locations instead of the bustling metropolis.

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Top Executive Opines on the Findings of the Report 

Shreerang Godbole, OYO’s Global Chief Service Officer, commented on these findings: “2024 has been a transformative year for travel. The demand for both spontaneous getaways and longer stays has surged, driven by changing work trends. As remote work reshapes travel habits, flexibility has become essential for both leisure and business travelers.”

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Kirana Stores Seek Government Support to Compete with Quick Commerce Giants

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Kirana Stores Seek Government Support to Compete with Quick Commerce Giants

The Federation of Retailer Association of India (FRAI) has called on the government to provide enhanced technological support to local kirana stores, allowing them to better compete with the growing presence of quick commerce giants like Swiggy Instamart, Blinkit, and Zepto. 

Representing approximately 80 lakh micro, small, and medium retailers, FRAI argues that empowering kirana stores with robust digital tools will level the playing field and help them maintain their relevance in the rapidly evolving market.

FRAI Spokesperson Makes Important Points 

According to FRAI Honorary Spokesperson Abhay Raj Mishra, the government’s initiatives, such as the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), are a step in the right direction, but a more targeted approach is necessary to address the unique needs of kirana stores. “Kirana stores should be equipped with technology that makes them as visible and accessible to customers as the quick commerce companies,” Mishra explained. He emphasized that for these stores to remain competitive, they must be able to tap into the expanding digital marketplace, meeting the demands of modern consumers.

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Kirana stores are facing increasing pressure as quick commerce companies, backed by massive investments and logistical advantages, offer deep discounts and faster delivery. FRAI pointed out that these companies have a distinct edge, with large warehouses, vast customer bases, and substantial financial resources that kirana stores simply can’t match.

Trouble for Kirana Stores

This imbalance has led to stagnating sales for traditional kirana stores, especially during peak demand periods like festivals, noted Lok Sabha member Praveen Khandelwal. He added that for small shopkeepers to thrive in this new era, it’s essential they adapt and leverage all available channels to stay in tune with changing consumer expectations. 

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Without this shift, the competition from quick commerce players will continue to intensify, putting local businesses at a significant disadvantage.

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Bharat Sethi’s Bold Predictions for E-Commerce in the Next 5 Years

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Bharat Sethi’s Bold Predictions for E-Commerce in the Next 5 Years

Bharat Sethi, co-founder of Rage Coffee, recently shared his insightful predictions for the future of e-commerce. With a rapidly changing digital landscape, Sethi believes the next five years will witness significant shifts, especially in how brands engage with customers.

According to Sethi, one of the most notable trends will be the rise of creator and founder-led brands. “The largest brands will be creator/founder led, vocally selling to the customers 1:1,” he noted. This direct connection between the brand and its customers will redefine how e-commerce operates, making the buying experience more personal.

Key Shifts and Trends in the E-commerce Space

Another key shift will be an increased focus on product differentiation and innovation. “Customers will always ask ‘why’ am I buying this brand,” he predicted, suggesting that consumers will demand more than just a product—they will seek meaning and authenticity from the brands they support.

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Sethi also sees a growing importance in agencies that entrepreneurs can outsource digital media building to. “Agencies that experienced entrepreneurs can outsource digital media building to, will be a big business,” he said, emphasizing the need for expertise in speaking the language of today’s consumers.

Sethi Makes Deeply Insightful Predictions 

Subscription and membership e-commerce are also expected to thrive in India, with Sethi forecasting that they will “finally arrive” and potentially create “the largest pool of millionaires.” The e-commerce landscape will continue to evolve, with social media playing a pivotal role in driving organic growth, and customer love becoming harder to earn.

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As Sethi summarized, the future of e-commerce will be a “fight to the bottom on pricing” for generic products, but for niche and loved brands, it will be all about building community and trust.

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Delhi Leads the Way with Rs 60 Crore Spent on Instant Noodles in 2024, According to Swiggy Instamart

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Delhi Leads the Way with Rs 60 Crore Spent on Instant Noodles in 2024, According to Swiggy Instamart

As 2024 draws to a close, Swiggy Instamart’s year-end report provides fascinating insights into the habits and preferences of consumers across India. From quirky ordering trends to regional consumption patterns, the data reveals a lot about the food and product choices that defined the year.

One of the most eye-catching statistics from the report comes from Delhi, where users spent an impressive Rs 60 crore on instant noodles alone. This massive figure highlights just how much the city loves its quick comfort food. Additionally, Delhi also topped the charts in potato chip orders, further cementing its status as a snack-loving city.

Mumbai is Not Far Behind 

Mumbai, not far behind, led in onion purchases, with Hyderabad also making its mark. On December 1, Swiggy Instamart users across India collectively ordered 4500 kilos of onions in just one hour, further underlining the country’s ongoing love affair with this kitchen staple. In a more surprising trend, Mumbai also made headlines for a massive one-day order of tonic water worth over Rs 8 lakh, reflecting a shift towards premium drink choices in the city.

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Swiggy Instamart also shared some fun insights into its top five most-ordered items this year: milk, curd, dosa batter, chips, and soft drinks. Interestingly, 1 in every 15 orders contained milk, while 1 in every 5 orders included a fruit or vegetable. The report also revealed significant spikes in specific categories during festivals, such as Raksha Bandhan, where users ordered a staggering 273 chocolates per minute.

More Insights from the Report

The year also saw an impressive 89-second delivery of nendran bananas and red amaranth, marking the fastest delivery of the year. This lightning-speed service showcased the efficiency Swiggy Instamart continues to offer, cementing its position as a go-to for instant needs.

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From snacks to celebrations, Swiggy Instamart’s data offers a fascinating snapshot of the consumption habits that shaped 2024.

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The Vegetarian Tech Founder Who Can’t Stop Raving About This Bay Area Gem

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The Vegetarian Tech Founder Who Can’t Stop Raving About This Bay Area Gem

Saket Modi, co-founder and CEO at Safe Security, recently shared a heartfelt tribute to the two siblings who are redefining Indian cuisine in the Bay Area. For someone who eats every meal out, finding a consistent source of high-quality vegetarian food can be a challenge. But for Modi, Sheetal and Roshan Shivalkar, the dynamic duo behind Puranpoli, Suramai, and Solkadhi, have made this possible, and their story is one of inspiration and grit.

Tech Founder Saket Modi Loves This Restaurant 

In a recent post, Modi highlighted the Shivalkars’ remarkable journey, emphasizing how their humble beginnings shaped their path to success. “Sheetal was working at a salon for many years in Bombay before moving to the Bay Area after getting married. She knew nothing about running restaurants, and hence started working at multiple restaurants in the Bay Area,” he shared. Similarly, Roshan began his career as a dishwasher at Falafel Bites before moving up the ranks to the front desk.

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Their dream of owning a restaurant came to fruition on March 17, 2020, with the launch of Puranpoli, on the very first day of the COVID lockdown. Despite the challenging start, the Shivalkars’ persistence led them to build a multi-million-dollar restaurant empire. “They’ve scaled from zero to millions of dollars in revenue, all while remaining bootstrapped,” Modi noted.

The Secret Behind their Phenomenal Success 

The key to their success lies in their unwavering commitment to quality. Sheetal, known for her obsession with perfection, starts her day at 5:30 AM, personally preparing fresh food. She and Roshan are typically the last to leave their restaurants around midnight. “Sheetal is obsessed with her dishes and to ensure quality, they only have a 1-page menu,” Modi wrote.

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For Modi, having a place that delivers such consistently great vegetarian food is a blessing. “Couple that with Sheetal’s love for me where she will occasionally give me the ‘prasad thali’ she dedicates to the big Ganesha when I go there in the afternoon for lunch,” he added.

The Shivalkars’ success is a testament to their relentless work ethic, passion for food, and their deep connection to their cultural roots. It’s a story every entrepreneur can learn from—proving that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.

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