“A Sweet Pause for Self-Care: Apollo Cancer Centres Introduce ‘Check-Olate’ to Boost Breast Cancer Awareness”

Apollo Cancer Centres Launches ‘Check-Olate’: A Sweet Reminder for Women’s Health

A chocolate that inspires women to pause, reflect, and prioritise self-care

Bengaluru, October 31, 2025:
In a unique initiative blending indulgence with awareness, Apollo  Cancer Centres (ACC) has introduced ‘Check-Olate’, a special chocolate designed to remind women to take a moment for themselves and focus on their health. The campaign, launched during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, turns a simple act of enjoying chocolate into a life-saving message about early detection and self-examination.

As per GLOBOCAN, breast cancer remains the leading cause of cancer among Indian women, accounting for 13.5% of all new cancer cases and 10.6% of cancer-related deaths. Yet, screening participation is worryingly low, with only 1.6% of women aged 30–69 years ever having been screened (NCBI). Addressing this gap, Apollo’s initiative aims to normalise breast self-examination as a monthly ritual and encourage women to take charge of their well-being.

Mr. Dinesh Madhavan, President – Group Oncology & International, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd., said, “When women are healthy, nations thrive. Every woman’s well-being strengthens families, communities, and the economy. At Apollo, we believe self-care is not a luxury — it’s power. Through initiatives like ‘Check-Olate’, we are promoting early detection and fostering a culture of proactive health awareness that can transform lives.”

Actor Ms. Pooja Gandhi praised the concept, saying, “‘Check-Olate’ takes something as universally loved as chocolate and turns it into a gentle, meaningful reminder for women to care for themselves. It’s a creative way to transform awareness into action.”

Each ‘Check-Olate’ bar carries a QR code that opens an animated video tutorial on how to perform a breast self-examination, making the process simple, accessible, and empowering.

Dr. Jayanti Thumsi, Lead & Robotic Surgeon – Breast Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centres, Bengaluru, added, “Early detection saves lives. ‘Check-Olate’ turns a moment of indulgence into a call for awareness, replacing fear with empowerment. Even a few minutes of self-checking each month can make a life-changing difference.”

Beyond its message, dark chocolate itself was thoughtfully chosen for its proven health benefits — rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that promote heart health, reduce inflammation, and enhance mood.

More than a Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign, ‘Check-Olate’ represents a movement — redefining how healthcare connects with people through creativity, empathy, and purpose. With every bite, it reminds women that self-care is strength — and awareness is power.

#WinningOverCancer

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Karnataka Police Cap Colour Change Draws Criticism: Calls for Restoration of Traditional Khaki

Bengaluru, October 28, 2025:
The Karnataka government’s recent decision to replace the traditional khaki police cap with a blue one has sparked widespread criticism, both from the public and within police circles. The sudden announcement, made under the direction of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, is being described by critics as “unscientific and ill-conceived.”

The new blue cap, they argue, does not complement the khaki uniform that has long symbolized authority, discipline, and service. Unlike khaki, which endures harsh weather conditions, blue fabric tends to fade quickly under sunlight and absorbs heat, leading to excessive sweating, scalp irritation, and potential hair loss. Officers have expressed that the mismatch between the cap and uniform dilutes the professional appearance of the police force, making personnel look less official.

Although many officers are reportedly unhappy with the change, they are unable to voice their concerns publicly due to service restrictions. Critics maintain that the government should focus on pressing public issues rather than cosmetic uniform changes.

Speaking at a press conference held on October 6, 2025, at the Davangere District Press Club, T.L. Ranganath, Founder and State President of the organization, condemned the government’s misplaced priorities. He highlighted ongoing issues such as severe overcrowding in state-run buses and the failure to provide reserved seats for senior citizens, accusing the government of neglecting people’s real problems.

Ranganath further demanded that the government issue an order by November 8, 2025, mandating 50% seat reservations for male passengers in government buses to reduce overcrowding. Failure to comply, he warned, would lead to a statewide protest.

He emphasized that the decision to alter the police cap colour undermines the dignity and recognition of Karnataka’s efficient and disciplined police force. “Such arbitrary decisions tarnish the legacy of one of India’s most respected law enforcement institutions,” he stated.

Prominent leaders, including Sandeep Kumar (State Youth Vice President), Anand Kumar (State Youth Secretary), K. Narayana Swamy, C. Ramayya (State Vice Presidents), and Rekha R. (State Women’s Wing President), were present at the press conference and expressed their solidarity with the demand to restore the traditional khaki cap.

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Devotees Throng Sri Raghavendra Swamy Matt for Karthika Deepotsava Celebrations

Bengaluru: A large number of devotees converged at the Nanjanagudu Sri Raghavendra Swamy Matt in Jayanagar 5th Block on Thursday to participate in the special Karthika Deepotsava celebrations held on the occasion of Guruvara Utsav.

The day-long event was organised under the divine guidance of Paramapujya Sri 1008 Sri Sri Subudhendra Teertha Swamiji and led by the Matt’s administrator Sri R.K. Vadheendracharya. The rituals began early in the morning with a special abhisheka and alankara to the deity, followed by annadana for thousands of devotees.

As dusk set in, the Matt premises came alive with devotional fervour as lamps were lit for the Deepotsava and a Dasavani programme was held, filling the atmosphere with spiritual hymns and music.

Speaking on the occasion, Sri Nandakishore Acharya said that devotees who visited the sanctum, had darshan, and received prasada were blessed with the grace of Sri Raghavendra Swamy.

Among the devotees was Sri Sripad Patil, News Anchor at Republic Kannada and Republic National Network, who attended the event along with his family. He lit ceremonial lamps and received Guru’s Shesha Vastra, Phala and Mantrakshate, seeking the saint’s blessings.

The glowing lamps, devotional chants and the spirit of faith turned the evening into a serene and memorable celebration of devotion and tradition.

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Seasoned for Success: Orkla India’s IPO Marks a New Chapter in Indian Packaged Foods

With strong anchor backing and heritage brands MTR and Eastern, the company aims to scale its global footprint.

Orkla India Launches IPO to Strengthen Its Growth Journey

Bengaluru, October 29, 2025:
Orkla India Limited, a leading Bengaluru-based multi-category food company, has launched its Initial Public Offering (IPO), marking a significant milestone in its growth journey. The IPO opened for subscription on October 29, 2025, and will close on October 31, 2025. The company’s shares are scheduled to list on the Indian stock exchanges on November 6, 2025.

The public issue follows a highly successful anchor investment round, which garnered ₹500 crore from reputed investors such as Nippon Life India, Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC, Ashoka WhiteOak, Nomura Funds, Government Pension Fund Global, Jupiter Global Fund, and Pinebridge Global Funds. On the opening day itself, the Non-Institutional Investor (NII) and Employee Reserve categories were fully subscribed, reflecting strong investor enthusiasm.

Formerly known as MTR Foods, Orkla India has established itself as one of the country’s foremost packaged food brands with a legacy spanning nearly a century. Through its flagship labels MTR and Eastern, the company offers a diverse portfolio across spices, ready-to-cook, ready-to-eat, and vermicelli categories—deeply rooted in authentic South Indian culinary traditions.

According to a Technopak report, Orkla India ranked among the top four Indian food companies by revenue in FY24 and held around 22.2% share in branded spice exports. The company exports to 45 countries, with international markets contributing 20.6% (₹4,861.7 million) of FY25 revenue.

With a robust distribution network of 834 distributors and 1,888 sub-distributors, supported by nine manufacturing facilities across India, Orkla India continues to expand its reach.

A subsidiary of Orkla ASA, a Norway-based industrial investment major with a 370-year legacy and group revenues of US$6.2 billion in 2024, the company leverages global expertise in governance, sustainability, and innovation to strengthen its leadership in the Indian food sector.

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Vaishnavi Group Unveils Ultra-Luxury Landmark ‘Vaishnavi AT-One Krishna Brindavan’ in South Bengaluru

Bengaluru, October 29, 2025:
Renowned real estate developer Vaishnavi Group has launched its latest ultra-luxury residential project, Vaishnavi AT-One Krishna Brindavan, in the upscale locality of Banashankari, South Bengaluru. The project marks the group’s seventh residential development in the region, strengthening its presence in the city’s premium housing segment and reaffirming its reputation as a trusted brand among Bengaluru’s elite homebuyers and investors.

Occupying 4.95 acres, the development features 359 vaastu-compliant 3 and 4 BHK apartments, designed to maximise privacy, natural ventilation, and comfort. With a total development value of ₹1,200 crore, the residences range from 1,870 sq. ft. to 2,566 sq. ft., starting at ₹3.5 crore.

A key attraction is the one-acre forest park complemented by a 25,745 sq. ft. clubhouse offering premium amenities such as indoor badminton and squash courts, a mini-theatre, fitness and wellness zones, and dedicated community spaces. Scheduled for completion by end-2029, the project will be among the tallest residential towers in Banashankari and J.P. Nagar, enhancing the city’s evolving skyline with a new architectural landmark.

Strategically positioned, Vaishnavi AT-One Krishna Brindavan provides excellent connectivity to Bellandur, HSR Layout, and Electronic City, offering residents seamless access to Bengaluru’s major IT and startup hubs. The Banashankari micro-market has recorded nearly 20% rental growth, making it a prime destination for premium homeowners and investors.

“Bengaluru’s expanding business landscape has nurtured a new generation of discerning buyers seeking homes that embody wellness, privacy, and design excellence,” said Darshan Govindaraju, Executive Director, Vaishnavi Group. “This project reflects our unwavering focus on quality, trust, and long-term value creation.”

With over 25 years of expertise, 40+ completed projects, and 6,000+ satisfied customers, Vaishnavi Group continues to set new benchmarks in Bengaluru’s luxury real estate sector.

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