ISCL charts ambitious growth path for Season 2, eyes bigger national footprint 32-team league backed by Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh aims to transform grassroots softball cricket across India

The Indian Softball Cricket League (ISCL) on Saturday outlined an ambitious roadmap for its next phase of growth as it looks to build a structured and professional national platform for softball and tennis-ball cricketers across India.

At a press conference held at the IAS Association in Bengaluru, ISCL Founder and President Dr. Gangadhar Raju, along with the league's leadership, highlighted the progress made since its inception and unveiled plans to strengthen its franchise, player, brand and commercial ecosystem ahead of Season 2.Former India cricketers Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh are associated with ISCL as Brand Ambassadors, adding significant cricketing stature to a league whose central objective is to identify and provide opportunities to grassroots talent from urban, rural and remote regions of the country.

ISCL AT A GLANCE

• Format: Franchise-based softball/tennis-ball cricket

• Franchises: 32 teams

• Focus: Grassroots talent development

• Geographical Reach: Pan-India

• Founder & President: Dr. Gangadhar Raju

• Brand Ambassadors: Suresh Raina & Harbhajan Singh

• Governing Organisation: Indian Softball Cricket Foundation (ISCF)

• Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka

Speaking about ISCL’s potential to create opportunities for grassroots cricketers, former India off-spinner and ISCL Brand Ambassador Harbhajan Singh said: “There is tremendous cricketing talent across India, particularly at the grassroots level, but not every talented player gets the platform or exposure needed to showcase their ability. ISCL can help bridge that gap. A structured league with franchises, competitive matches and wider visibility can give these players something meaningful to aspire to. I am delighted to be associated with an initiative that wants to take the game to players across the country.”

From Karnataka to a pan-India platform

The origins of ISCL can be traced to 2024, when the Karnataka Softball Premier League (KSPL) was developed to provide structured competitive opportunities for softball cricketers across Karnataka. The experience of building KSPL subsequently became the foundation for a much larger national vision.

In 2025, the Indian Softball Cricket League was established as a national franchise-based platform, expanding the concept beyond Karnataka. The inaugural ISCL season featured 32 teams representing states and regions across India, with Punjab emerging as the Season 1 champions. The league also broadened opportunities beyond its domestic competition, including an India vs Nepal international match during the 2025 season.

Reflecting on ISCL’s journey and its plans for the future, Founder and President Dr. Gangadhar Raju said: “ISCL was born from a simple belief: talent should not be limited by geography or access. There are thousands of gifted softball and tennis-ball cricketers in cities, towns and villages who deserve an organised platform to demonstrate their skills. What began with Karnataka has now developed into a national movement with 32 franchises. Season 1 gave us tremendous confidence, and our objective now is to make Season 2 bigger, stronger and more professional while keeping grassroots players at the heart of everything we do.”

Season 2 marks the next phase of expansion

Following the successful completion of its inaugural season, ISCL has entered its next phase of development in 2026, with preparations for Season 2 focusing on strengthening its franchise ecosystem, expanding commercial and brand partnerships and increasing opportunities for players. The league’s expanding footprint was underlined by the addition of Vidarbha as a new franchise for Season 2 in June 2026.

Former IAS Officer and ISCL Board Chairman B H Anil Kumar said the league’s long-term success would be built around strong governance and a sustainable professional structure: “For any sporting property to grow sustainably, it requires credibility, transparency, professional administration and a clear long-term vision. ISCL is working towards creating that framework. Our responsibility is not merely to conduct a tournament, but to develop an ecosystem that players, franchises, partners and supporters can believe in and participate in for years to come.ISCL Board Vice Chairman Sanjeev Singh highlighted the importance of creating a strong connection between franchises and the communities they represent: “The franchise model gives ISCL the opportunity to create strong regional identities while being part of one national competition. We want franchises to become deeply connected with their regions, discover local talent and build their own communities of supporters. As we move into Season 2, strengthening that franchise ecosystem will be one of our major priorities.”

Building a wider sporting and commercial ecosystem

Beyond providing competitive opportunities to players, ISCL aims to create an ecosystem connecting players, franchises, fans, brands and communities through softball cricket. With its pan-India reach and grassroots positioning, the league is looking to create opportunities for businesses and brands to engage with audiences across multiple regions while supporting the development of emerging cricket talent.

Kaushik Kalluri, AVP, Sony Sports, said: “We are delighted to partner with the Indian Softball Cricket League (ISCL) as its official broadcaster for Season 2. Cricket in India has always drawn its strength from the grassroots, and ISCL provides an exciting platform for talented players from across the country to showcase their skills. At Sony Sports, we look forward to taking their stories and the competition to a wider audience and bringing fans closer to this unique format of the game.”

Noorul Ameen, Founder Director of My Asia Consulting Services, said: “Sport today is not only about what happens on the field; successful leagues create communities and sustainable ecosystems around the competition. ISCL has an interesting proposition because it combines India's enormous passion for cricket with grassroots participation and a franchise structure. As the league expands, there is considerable potential to build meaningful partnerships between ISCL, businesses, brands and regional communities.”

ISCL believes its growth can help bring greater structure, recognition and visibility to a form of cricket that is played extensively across India but has traditionally lacked a large organised national platform.

With Season 1 providing the foundation and Season 2 representing the next stage of expansion, the league’s long-term ambition is to establish a sustainable pathway through which talented softball and tennis-ball cricketers from across the country can compete, gain recognition and represent their regions on a national stage.

                                   

 

Mahindra introduces the BE 6 SPORTEQ, a bold new expression of sport, technology and electric performance

Mahindra today introduced the BE 6 SPORTEQ, an all-new series that marks the next evolution of its acclaimed electric origin SUV. Bringing together the sporty character and technology leadership that define the BE 6, the new series offers customers a wider choice of design, technology, performance and ownership experiences.

To mark the unveiling of the BE 6 SPORTEQ range, Mahindra also introduced two distinctive expressions of the SPORTEQ philosophy — the top-of-the-line Launch Edition and the performance-focused Formula E Freedom Edition.

Since its launch in November 2024, the BE 6 has created a strong emotional connect with owners and enthusiasts through its bold design, sporty character and electric performance. The new “Pulse Goes Rogue” campaign carries forward the spirit on which the BE 6 was builBE 6 SPORTEQ: A new expression of design, technology and experience The BE 6 SPORTEQ has been conceived as a distinct series with new design, technology and experience enhancements.

Available in 12 colour options, including four new shades — Rosso Impulso, Ruby Velvet, Graphite Storm and Firestorm Orange Satin — the SPORTEQ series is offered across eight variants: ONE, TWO, THREE, THREE+, FOUR, FE, FE FOUR and Launch Edition.

From the TWO variant onwards, all models feature a three-screen coast-to-coast display, creating an immersive and futuristic cockpit experience. Customers looking for the original race-inspired cockpit with two screens and the signature halo design can choose the SPORTEQ Freedom Edition.

Every variant in the SPORTEQ series features an enhanced suite of technology-rich, segment-first features, staying true to the BE 6's core proposition as a Software Defined Vehicle (SDV).

All-new technology and software features introduced with the SPORTEQ series will also be made available to existing BE 6, XEV 9e and XEV 9S customers through over-the-air software updates, rolled out in phases beginning January 2027. The features available will vary depending on the vehicle model and variant.

MAIA and the six TEQ Suites The six TEQ Suites are powered by MAIA — Mahindra's Artificial Intelligence Architecture, which forms the foundation of its Software Defined Vehicle vision. MAIA enables features designed to make the vehicle more intuitive, engaging, secure and responsive to individual customer needs.

TEQ_Talk: Built with Google Gemini, TEQ_Talk is a next-generation conversational companion designed to make every drive more connected and effortless. It enables natural interactions through 17 specialised AI agents, supporting more than 100 core functions and 48 apps, including vehicle controls, navigation, music and news.

TEQ_Play: Offers a rich suite of interactive entertainment experiences, including karaoke, an in-car gaming suite with BYOD mode, Private Audio, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, GrooveMe Party and Milestone.

TEQ_Drive: Enhances performance and driving dynamics through intelligent vehicle controls such as Custom Drive Mode, Drift Mode, Tribe Drive, …Revive & Revive SOS, along with an Acceleration Boost exclusive to the Formula E Freedom Edition.

TEQ_Me: Takes personalisation beyond conventional settings through features such as user profiles with auto-detection.

TEQ_Secure: Enhances safety through intelligent monitoring features including Secure360 Pro, live view with audio relay and intrusion alert, NFC and Digital Car Key, and a third-screen parental lock.

Mahindra is the first Indian automotive OEM to offer Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC)-compliant Digital Car Key functionality across multiple device ecosystems, including iPhone, Apple Watch, Android and Samsung smartphones, as well as NFC Key Cards.

TEQ_xting: Enables further personalisation, including personalised tailgate messaging.

BE 6 SPORTEQ Launch Edition The BE 6 SPORTEQ Launch Edition sits at the top of the range and is distinguished by its exclusive Graphite Storm exterior and full Racing Tan leatherette interior.

The Launch Edition combines the distinctive character of the BE 6 with an elevated cabin experience and the latest technology features offered by the SPORTEQ series.

BE 6 SPORTEQ Formula E Freedom Edition The BE 6 SPORTEQ Formula E Freedom Edition represents the most performance-focused expression of the BE 6. Inspired by Mahindra Racing's Formula E programme, it brings the spirit of electric motorsport to a distinctive road-going package.

The edition features the original BE 6 headlamp design, a purposeful exterior treatment with subtle tricolour accents and vibrant satin colour finishes, including the new Rosso Impulso.

Inside, the cabin features an exclusive Black & Firestorm Orange theme, paired with a two-screen digital cockpit and the signature halo design element unique to this edition.

Designed for enthusiasts seeking a more engaging driving experience, the Freedom Edition offers Acceleration Boost, enabling 0–100 km/h in 6.44 seconds.

Kiran Maneli, Regional Sales Manager, Mahindra Electric, said:“The BE 6 SPORTEQ brings together the performance, technology and distinctive design that today's EV customers are looking for. With its advanced digital cockpit, intelligent TEQ Suites and multiple variants, the SPORTEQ offers customers greater choice while making electric mobility more engaging and accessible. We are confident that customers in Karnataka will appreciate the combination of sporty performance, intelligent technology and everyday practicality that the BE 6 SPORTEQ delivers.”

Prices and availability

The BE 6 SPORTEQ is available across multiple battery and variant configurations.

Variant 59 kWh BaaS 59 kWh 70 kWh 79 kWh

ONE ₹11.45 lakh ₹19.45 lakh — —

TWO ₹12.95 lakh ₹20.95 lakh — —

THREE — ₹21.95 lakh ₹22.95 lakh —

THREE+ — — ₹23.95 lakh ₹24.95 lakh

FOUR — — — ₹26.95 lakh

LAUNCH EDITION — — — ₹26.95 lakh

FE — — — ₹24.45 lakh

FE FOUR — — — ₹26.95 lakh

Prices are ex-showroom and exclude wall charger and installation costs.

BaaS battery cost is ₹3.75 per km, considering 60 km/day usage.

* New BE 6 SPORTEQ series starts at ₹11.45 lakh with Battery as a Service (BaaS), with battery cost at ₹3.75 per km

* Futuristic three-screen digital cockpit and six new TEQ Suites powered by MAIA, including TEQ_Talk built with Google Gemini

* BE 6 SPORTEQ Launch Edition gets exclusive Graphite Storm exterior with Racing Tan leatherette interiors

* Formula E Freedom Edition brings a sportier, race-inspired design with two-screen cockpit and signature halo design

* New software features will be rolled out to existing BE 6, XEV 9e and XEV 9S owners through OTA updates in phases from January 2027

* Deliveries commence on August 26, 2026, on the auspicious occasion of Onam 

 

 

 

FYERS American Gambits set to compete at Global Chess League 2026 in Bengaluru in September with roster of Indian and international stars including Javokhir Sindarov, Nihal Sarin and Daniil Dubov

Bengaluru, 17 August 2026: FYERS American Gambits, one of the leading franchises in the Global Chess League, has announced that football icon and entrepreneur Gerard Piqué has joined the franchise as a strategic shareholder, reflecting the organisation's long-term ambition to contribute to the continued global growth of chess. 

A FIFA World Cup winner with Spain and one of the most decorated players of his generation, Piqué brings a deep understanding of elite sport, global fan communities and innovative sports ventures. His appointment reflects the franchise’s global ambitions and the growing appeal of chess as a sport with the potential to build a truly international ecosystem spanning competition, technology, entertainment and culture.

As chess enters a new era of global growth, increasingly positioned at the intersection of competitive excellence, technology, entertainment and popular culture, FYERS American Gambits is building a franchise designed for the future of the sport. Backed by a group of strategic shareholders that includes former international cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin, the franchise will compete in its third Global Chess League season this September 3rd-13th in Bangalore with a world-class roster including Javokhir Sindarov, Nihal Sarin, Daniil Dubov, Bibisara Assaubayeva, Sara Khadem and Marc'Andria Maurizzi, under the leadership of GM Srinath Narayanan.

Prachura PP, CEO and Co-owner, FYERS American Gambits, said: “Gerard Piqué’s investment in FYERS American Gambits is a landmark moment for our franchise and, we believe, for the evolution of chess as a global sport. Gerard understands what it takes to build a global sporting property one that combines elite competition with compelling storytelling, passionate communities and a strong connection with fans. His belief in our vision is incredibly meaningful as we look to build a franchise that can represent the future of chess.

“Chess today is at an inflection point. The talent is extraordinary, the audience is growing rapidly and the sport has all the ingredients to become a truly global phenomenon. We want FYERS American Gambits to be at the centre of that transformation bringing together the best players, ambitious partners and a new generation of fans. Gerard joining us is a powerful validation of that vision and opens up exciting possibilities for what we can build together.”

Yashas Khoday, Co-founder and Chief Product Officer, FYERS, said: "Football became a global game because it found ways to connect with fans everywhere. We believe chess has that same potential, and having someone like Gerard, who's lived that journey with football, backing us makes that goal feel a lot more real. This is just the start of what we think chess can become."

Gerard Piqué said: “Throughout my career, I’ve always been interested in projects that rethink how sport connects with fans. Chess has fascinated me for a long time because of its depth, its global appeal and the incredible mental strength it demands. What attract me to FYERS American Gambits is the ambition to take chess to a new level and its long-term vision for the sport. I'm pleased to join as a strategic shareholder and wish the team every success in the season ahead.”

The announcement comes at a time of unprecedented global momentum for chess, driven by a new generation of players, the rise of digital platforms and innovative competition formats that are introducing the sport to broader audiences worldwide. The Global Chess League has played a leading role in this evolution through its team-based franchise model, bringing together many of the world's top players and creating new ways for fans to engage with the sport.Bringing together world-class talent, experienced leadership and long-term strategic backing, FYERS American Gambits reflects the growing international momentum behind chess and its emergence as an increasingly global sports and entertainment property.

About FYERS American Gambits: FYERS American Gambits is a franchise in the Global Chess League, bringing together some of the world's leading chess talent in an innovative team-based format. The franchise is committed to building a globally recognised sporting identity while contributing to the growth, accessibility and evolution of chess for new generations of fans.

                             

Polar Bear Launches 200th Store Nationally; Marks 100th Outlet in Bengaluru

10th August, Bengaluru, India: Polar Bear, the Ice Cream Sundae Zone, has achieved a landmark milestone with the launch of its 200th outlet nationally, which also marks its 100th parlour in Bengaluru, the city where the brand's journey began. A 100% Indian-owned, self-funded brand, Polar Bear has grown from a single store near Bengaluru's ITPL in 2008 to 200 dine-in sundae parlours across more than 35 cities, making it one of India's largest homegrown dessert chains.

Founded by entrepreneur Kishore Rai, Polar Bear has steadily built its presence through a singular focus on quality, innovation and memorable customer experiences. Remaining entirely self-funded throughout its journey, the brand has expanded sustainably over the years, earning the trust of millions of customers and strong franchise network while creating a distinctive space in India's evolving premium dessert market.

From its beginnings in Bengaluru to establishing a presence across multiple cities, Polar Bear has built a loyal customer base through its wide range of ice creams sundaes, shakes, sorbets and ice cream cakes. Over the years, the brand has helped shape the dine-in sundae parlour format by transforming desserts into an experience by bringing together families, friends and dessert lovers to celebrate both special occasions and everyday moments.

Commenting on the milestone, Kishore Rai, Founder, Polar Bear, said "Polar Bear started in 2008 with a simple vision - to delight every customer with a memorable ice cream sundae experience. At that time, we felt the market was largely focused on selling scoops of ice cream, while the sundae category had immense untapped potential. We set out to create innovative, indulgent sundaes using carefully curated recipes and high-quality dairy ingredients, giving customers an experience that was far more exciting than just eating ice cream.

Adding to this, Prashant Prakash, Senior Vice President – Commercial & Operations, Polar Bear, said: "Quality is at the heart of everything we do at Polar Bear. From sourcing premium ingredients to maintaining stringent quality standards across every outlet, we ensure that every sundae consistently delights our customers. Our menu continues to evolve with innovative flavours, generous portions and exciting combinations that cater to changing consumer preferences. As we celebrate our 200th store, our focus remains on delivering an experience that combines taste, freshness and exceptional service."

                                 

An Evening of Gratitude honours the Collective Spirit powering TCS World 10K Bengaluru 2026

The Government of Karnataka, the Indian Army, Headquarters Karnataka & Kerala Sub Area, Greater Bengaluru Authority, Bengaluru Police, NCC and Civic partnerships have been central to the event's growth

₹5.73 crore raised for social causes, honouring changemakers and recognising the collective efforts of NGOs, corporates, philanthropists and individual fundraisers

Bengaluru, July 2: Bengaluru's spirit of generosity was once again on full display as the TCS World 10K Bengaluru, World Athletics Gold Label race, achieved a significant philanthropy milestone, raising ₹5.73 crore through the collective efforts of NGOs, corporates, philanthropists, and individual fundraisers.

Building on the legacy of creating meaningful impact through sport, Procam International, pioneers of distance running in India, hosted the inaugural An Evening of Gratitude — a special celebration recognizing the people, partnerships, and purpose that continues to drive the TCS World 10K Bengaluru beyond race day.

Over the years, the TCS World 10K Bengaluru has evolved into much more than a race. It has become a powerful platform that inspires collective action, mobilises generosity, and creates opportunities for lasting social impact across communities.

The evening honoured fundraisers, corporate leaders, nonprofit partners, young changemakers, and supporters whose dedication transformed intention into action and action into measurable change.

United Way Bengaluru, the event's Philanthropy Partner, has played a pivotal role in strengthening the event's philanthropic ecosystem by connecting donors, fundraisers, corporates, and nonprofit organisations, helping transform participation into meaningful social impact.

For the 2026 edition, NGOs, corporates, and individual fundraisers collectively raised ₹5.73 crore, reflecting Bengaluru's unwavering commitment to creating positive change through collective action.

Since the inception of the philanthropy programme in 2008, the TCS World 10K Bengaluru has mobilised over ₹64.93 crore towards social causes, supporting initiatives across education, healthcare, sports, child welfare, livelihoods, and community development. This enduring legacy reinforces the event's position as one of India's most impactful sporting platforms for philanthropy, where every kilometre run, contributes to a larger purpose.

Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru, said, "The TCS World 10  said, "The TCS World 10K Bengaluru continues to demonstrate the extraordinary power of sport to unite people around a common purpose. At the heart of this movement are our NGO partners, whose tireless efforts bring meaning and impact to every contribution. It has been inspiring to witness first-time fundraisers, young changemakers, corporate teams, families, friends, and communities come together to support causes they deeply care about. When people see the difference, they are creating, they move beyond participation and become advocates for change—and that is the true power of philanthropy."

Fundraising Highlights

•   94 participating NGOs
•   12 cause categories aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
•   46 participating corporates
•   40 corporate teams
•    222 individuals signed up to raise funds
•    184 active fundraisers
•    15 Young Philanthropists, including 9 who raised over ₹1 lakh

Sunil Deshpande, Regional Head, Bengaluru, Tata Consultancy Services, said, “The TCS World 10K Bengaluru reflects the city’s spirit of sport, community, and culture, that inspires millions. These awards are a testament to this collective ethos that recognizes the individuals and groups driving meaningful change by supporting social causes and community initiatives. I congratulate all the awardees for their exceptional contributions. It is encouraging to see that the event continues to stand as southern India’s leading sports philanthropy platform and a catalyst for social change.”

Shreepad Shende, Chief Marketing Officer, IDFC FIRST Bank, said, “When people come together with a shared purpose, they can create a big impact. The TCS World 10K Bengaluru is a wonderful example of this. At IDFC FIRST Bank, we are proud to support an initiative that helps communities and social causes. The Gratitude Awards celebrate the inspiring work of NGOs and partners who are making a real difference.”

Rajendra Kataria, Addl. Chief Secretary-Revenue & Home, Government of Karnataka, Said, "Bengaluru has built a remarkable culture around fitness and community running, and the TCS World 10K has become a true celebration of that spirit. It is inspiring to see the event grow every year, bringing together runners, families, volunteers and NGOs with a shared commitment to health and social impact. I congratulate the entire TCS and IDFC FIRST Bank team for their continued efforts and extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the NGOs whose contribution makes this event even more meaningful”.

N.A.Haris, MLA, Shantinagar, Said, "The true strength of any community lies not just in what people give, but in the time, they willingly dedicate to a cause. Money can always be earned again, but time is priceless, and everyone who contributes it deserves our deepest respect. We recently witnessed this spirit when 80,000 people came together to plant 15 lakh saplings across Bengaluru in just 12 hours, creating a Guinness World Record. The TCS World 10K reflects that same collective spirit of service, reminding us of Mahatma Gandhi's timeless words: 'The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others".

While philanthropy remains central, the successful execution of the TCS World 10K Bengaluru is made possible by the support of several stakeholders who work behind the scenes.

The National Cadet Corps (NCC), along with nine other institutions, joined Procam Race Force for the first time at the TCS World 10K Bengaluru, strengthening the volunteer force that is integral to the event's successful execution. Their enthusiasm, discipline and commitment played a valuable role in enhancing the race-day experience.

Headquarters Karnataka & Kerala Sub Area extended invaluable support by providing the Start & Finish venues, enabling the smooth conduct of race-related activities and engagements.

Hasiru Dala Innovations, led by Pinky Chandran and Dr. Umashankar, played a pivotal role in advancing the event's sustainability efforts, helping the TCS World 10K Bengaluru achieve the Bronze-level recognition under World Athletics' Sustainability Programme – Athletics for a Better World.

The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), Bengaluru Police and the Greater Bengaluru Authority have been steadfast partners in the event's growth, providing critical support in areas ranging from mobility and trafficmanagement to public infrastructure and civic coordination, thereby ensuring a safe, seamless and world-class race experience. We also recognise the contribution of the Karnataka Athletic Association. They have provided race officials and technical assistance to the event since its inception.

Vivek Singh, Joint Managing Director, Procam International, said, “The TCS World 10K Bengaluru has always been about more than just running—it is a platform that brings people together to create meaningful impact. Over the years, the event has inspired runners and citizens alike to give back to the city, fostering a culture of generosity, civic pride, and collective responsibility. Its continued success is a testament to the power of collaboration, with state authorities, the Indian Army, civic bodies, sponsors, partners, volunteers, and the wider community coming together to drive positive change and create a lasting legacy.”

Further adding, “An Evening of Gratitude is a celebration of this shared journey, honouring the remarkable contributions of fundraisers, NGOs, corporates, volunteers, and supporters who have played a vital role in the event’s success.

AWARD RECIPIENTS – INSPIRING CHANGE & TRANSFORMING LIVES

Highest Fundraising NGOs

•      GoSports Foundation – ₹81,88,402
•      Reaching Hand – ₹43,73,820
•      Neonates Foundation of India – ₹41,51,231

Highest Contributing Corporate Teams

•      ASM Technologies Limited – ₹74,10,000 for GoSports Foundation
•        OpenText – ₹25,57,136 for United Way Bengaluru
•        AtkinsRéalis – ₹25,00,000 for Right to Live Foundation

TCS World 10K Champions

(Individuals who raised ₹7 lakh and above)

•        Usha Baliga – ₹40,68,470 for Bangalore Kidney Foundation
• ·       Luke Ninan – ₹25,98,560 for Reaching Hand
• ·       Radha & Partha – ₹22,56,503 for WeLive Foundation
• ·       Sudhir Shetty – ₹7,03,041 for Veer Ratna Foundation

Impact Creator

(Individuals who raised between ₹4 lakh and ₹7 lakh)

CiscoRunners Balasubramaniam – ₹4,16,317 for eVidyaloka Trust

Trailblazers

(Individuals who raised between ₹2 lakh and ₹4 lakh)

Akhilesh Kamath – ₹3,56,377 for Gubbachi Learning Community

  Gautham CB – ₹3,52,905 for Neonates Foundation of India

·  Dr Vikas Satwik – ₹3,16,120 for Neonates Foundation of India

·   Neeraj Manivannan – ₹2,81,297 for Bhumi

·    Ramesh Talupula – ₹2,55,033 for Each One Educate One Foundation

·     Praveen Shetty – ₹2,49,303 for Veer Ratna Foundation

·      Arunita Walia – ₹2,10,103 for Charlie's Animal Rescue Centre

·      Jayanthi Yeshwant – ₹2,06,101 for One All Trust

·      Magesh Subramanian – ₹2,03,327 for PAPCP

·       Krishna Mohan – ₹2,01,202 for Each One Educate One Foundation

·       Shruthi Bopaiah – ₹2,00,502 for CJ Memorial Trust

Young Philanthropists

(Individuals below 18 years who raised a minimum of ₹1 lakh)

· Tia Bali – ₹11,75,695 for Neonates Foundation of India

·  Tabitha S. Pitchappa – ₹3,22,901 for Reaching Hand

·    Abigail Lisa Joshua – ₹2,86,100 for Reaching Hand

·      Johann Mathew Kurian – ₹1,75,450 for Vayah Vikas

·      Ayansh Ghosh – ₹1,29,112 for Gubbachi Learning Community

·      Naysa Bhattacharjee – ₹1,20,501 for Neonates Foundation of India

·      Siva Sabari Rahul K – ₹1,18,367 for Each One Educate One Foundation

·       Siddharth – ₹1,05,857 for Charlie's Animal Rescue Centre

·       Suhani Agarwal – ₹1,03,810 for Gubbachi Learning Community

    Special Recognition Awards

• Indian Army – For invaluable venue support
• National Cadet Corps (NCC) – For Volunteering support
• Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (BMRCL) – For facilitating ease of travel via early Metro            Services
•  Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) - Support for segregation, recycling,

Composting, energy recovery and Race Route

• Hasiru Dala Innovations – Sustainability effort
• Bengaluru Police –For Outstanding Public Service
• Digital Content Creator Awards – Jayashree Parihar (women), Devanshu Saran (Men) & Special Mention (Simran & Avik)
•  JJs Running – Run Club with Overall Highest Participation and Most Women Participants

•     Best Published Photograph Awards:

Winner - Chethan Shivakumar (The Times of India) 

1st Runner-up – Ranju P (Prajavani)

2nd Runner-up – Mohan Kumar B N (Hosadigantha) …

                                     

                                    

Rahul Dravid Unveils Glittering Maharaja Trophy for Season 5 ~ Indian cricket legend joins KSCA officials for the trophy unveiling ceremony ~

 Indian cricket legend and Karnataka icon Rahul Dravid unveiled the trophy for this year's Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 in Bengaluru on Thursday, marking another milestone in the build-up to the fifth edition of Karnataka's premier franchise-based T20 tournament.  

The trophy unveiling ceremony was attended by KSCA President Venkatesh Prasad, KSCA Honorary Secretary Santosh Menon, Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Governing Council Chairman M.S. Keshava, KSCA Official Spokesperson Vinay Mruthyunjaya, franchise owners, office bearers and other distinguished guests of the KSCA  

Speaking at the event, Rahul Dravid highlighted the role of the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 in creating opportunities for emerging cricketers and praised KSCA's efforts in strengthening the state's cricketing pathway.  

"The Maharaja Trophy is a very important tournament. Having myself been involved in the IPL for many years, I know for a fact that it is a tournament that is followed by a lot of IPL teams. There will be scouts who come to the games live, but many of them watch it on television as well. The scores, statistics and data from these matches are watched very closely and it really helps a lot of these players get into the IPL."  

KSCA President Venkatesh Prasad reflected on the significance of the tournament and its continued contribution to Karnataka cricket.  "The Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 continues to provide an important platform for young players to showcase their abilities, gain valuable experience and take significant steps forward in their cricketing careers. We are proud to offer a pathway that inspires the next generation of champions and contributes to the continued growth of cricket across Karnataka.”  

Honorary Secretary, KSCA, Santosh Menon also mentioned three key changes to the playing conditions for the 2026 edition of the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20. The tournament will retain the Impact Player rule, with teams required to submit their playing XI before the toss, to emphasise the role of all-rounders. The competition will also adopt a provision whereby runs will not be awarded if a batter is dismissed off a free-hit delivery, rewarding bowlers for delivering a legal wicket-taking ball after a no-ball. In addition, if an on-field dismissal is subsequently overturned and the batter is found to be not out, any runs completed during the play will be restored to both the batter and the batting team.  

M.S. Keshava, Chairman, Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Governing Council, also announced that tickets for the Mysuru leg of the tournament will go on sale from 3:00 PM on June 12. The tickets will be available digitally through the District by Zomato platform, with prices ranging from ₹100 to ₹250 to ensure the matches remain accessible and affordable for fans.  

Earlier this month, the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Season 5 Player Auction saw the six franchises — Bengaluru Blasters, Mysore Warriors, Hubli Tigers, Gulbarga Mystics, Shivamogga Yodhas and Coastal Kings Mangaluru — finalize their squads for the upcoming season.  

The tournament will be played across Mysuru, Hubballi and Bengaluru from June 20 to July 12. Mysuru will host 12 matches from June 20 to 25, before the action shifts to Hubballi for a further 12 matches from June 27 to July 3. Bengaluru will then stage 10 matches from July 5 to 12, including Qualifier 1, the Eliminator, Qualifier 2 and the Final, as the six franchises battle for the coveted title.

                                      

Joyalukkas ‘Brilliance Diamond Jewellery Show’ in Koramangala, Bengaluru from 15th May to 31st May 2026

The world’s favourite jeweller, Joyalukkas, is all set to mesmerise Bengaluru with the Brilliance Diamond Jewellery Show, from 15th May 2026 at its Koramangala, Bengaluru showroom. This exclusive showcase promises an extraordinary celebration of artistry, elegance, and innovation in diamond jewellery.

Featuring an exquisite range that spans opulent bridal statements to refined contemporary designs for everyday wear, the exhibition brings together timeless craftsmanship and modern sensibilities. Each creation reflects exceptional detailing and design excellence, available only for a limited period during the show.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Joy Alukkas, Chairman G Managing Director of Joyalukkas Group, said:“The Brilliance Diamond Jewellery Show celebrates our commitment to excellence and our passion for creating jewellery that resonates with elegance and individuality. Bengaluru has always been special to us, and we are delighted to present this exclusive collection to our customers, offering them an opportunity to experience diamonds in their most brilliant form.”

 Adding to the allure of the exhibition, customers will receive a free gold coin with every purchase of diamond jewellery worth ₹1 lakh and above during the show period, making the celebration even more rewarding.

The Brilliance Diamond Jewellery Show will be held exclusively at the Joyalukkas Koramangala showroom in Bengaluru until 31st May 2026. Jewellery connoisseurs and patrons are invited to immerse themselves in a world of dazzling diamonds, where every piece embodies luxury, emotion, and timeless beauty.