Dr Supriya Shah: When the Sitar Becomes a Voice Beyond Words

Rooted in the Madhubani-Maihar tradition, the acclaimed sitarist, academic and mentor is carrying Indian classical music forward with a rare balance of tradition, scholarship and contemporary expression.

In an age when music is increasingly measured in seconds, streams and viral trends, Dr. Supriya Shah represents something enduring the patience of a raga, the discipline of a tradition and the unmistakable voice of the sitar.

One of the distinguished sitarists of her generation, Dr. Shah belongs to the Madhubani-Maihar Gharana. Her musical identity is firmly rooted in Hindustani classical tradition, yet her approach is not confined by it. Classical raagdari remains at the heart of her music, while her willingness to engage with other musical genres allows the sitar to communicate with audiences well beyond the conventional classical circuit.

A Journey That Began at 13

Supriya Shah's relationship with music began at the age of 13 under the guidance of Late Pt. Satish Chandra. She subsequently received intensive training in Hindustani classical music and advanced sitar technique from Late Pt. Uma Shankar Mishra, and was also briefly mentored by Grammy Award winner Padma Bhushan Pt. Vishwa Mohan Bhatt.

What followed was not merely a career in performance, but a life built around music—as an artiste, scholar, teacher and cultural ambassador.

Today, Dr. Shah serves as Senior Faculty in the Department of Instrumental Music, Faculty of Performing Arts, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, and is also a graded artiste of All India Radio. Over nearly two decades at BHU, she has trained and mentored numerous students, while extending her teaching internationally through digital classes.

Where Art Meets Scholarship

What distinguishes Dr. Shah is the unusual depth of her academic journey alongside her stage career.

She earned a Ph.D. for her research on the changing scenario of performance practice in instrumental music in the 20th century, with special reference to Hindustani music. She topped the M.Phil programme at the University of Delhi and was a Gold Medallist in M.A. Hindustani Music. Before pursuing music academically, she graduated in Economics (Honours) from Lady Shri Ram College for Women, University of Delhi.

This combination of scholarship and performance gives her music an interesting character: the musician understands not only how a tradition is performed, but also how it has evolved.

From Kashi to the International Stage

Dr. Shah's sitar has travelled across some of India's important cultural platforms and beyond.

Her performances include the Sankat Mochan International Music Festival's centenary celebrations, Sangeet Natak Akademi's Samyog in New Delhi,Shree Baba Harivallabh Sangeet Sammelan,

RIMPA International Music Festival, Ganga Mahotsav, World Sitar Festival, concerts at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), Mumbai, and performances connected with the Krishnamurti Foundation India and several other prestigious cultural institutions.

Her music has also travelled internationally. The Embassy of India in Tokyo featured her solo sitar recitals on Gandhi Jayanti in 2020 and during India's Independence Day celebrations in 2021. 

Her digital concert Anuragini, organised by UK-based Harmoniverse, was showcased through the social platforms of the Nehru Centre in London and The Gandhi Centre in the Netherlands. 

She was also invited to conduct sitar masterclasses at the Conservatoire à Rayonnement Régional de La Réunion in 2025.

Recognition Along the Way

Her journey has brought an impressive range of honours.

Among them are the Ravi Koppikar Memorial Award from NCPA, First Prize in the Akashvani Sangeet Pratiyogita, the Laya Jyoti Award, university gold medals and recognition from several cultural organisations. She received the Samskrithi Award 2024–25 in Kerala in recognition of her contribution as a musician and music educator.

In March 2025, her alma mater Seth Anandram Jaipuria School, Kanpur, felicitated her during its Golden Jubilee celebrations as one of its 50 outstanding alumni, also featuring her in a commemorative coffee-table book.

Yet perhaps her more lasting achievement lies beyond trophies and citations.

It is in the students she teaches, the audiences she introduces to the sitar and the bridge she continues to build between India's classical inheritance and a changing generation.

Tradition That Refuses to Stand Still

Indian classical music survives not simply because traditions are preserved, but because every generation finds musicians capable of making those traditions meaningful again.

Dr. Supriya Shah belongs to that continuum

Her sitar can carry the discipline of the gharana onto a traditional concert stage, travel through digital platforms to listeners thousands of kilometres away, enter a classroom as a subject of serious scholarship, and return again to the intimacy of a raga.

For her, music appears to be less about displaying virtuosity than finding a language deeper than speech.

As Dr. Shah herself expresses it: “Music—where pain is the ingredient for pleasure and sorrow transmutes into joy.”

Perhaps that thought explains the emotional centre of her journey. 

The strings of her sitar do not merely preserve an old tradition—they remind a contemporary world why that tradition continues to matter.

- By Paresh B. Mehta 



GUIDE (1965) – The Awakening of Conscience

Adroit Industries Gears Up for Public Market Debut with ₹150.71 Crore IPO

Vertically integrated driveline manufacturer aims to strengthen capacity, expand operations, and accelerate growth across global markets

Mumbai, September 21, 2026: Adroit Industries (India) Limited, a leading manufacturer of propeller shafts and torque-transmission components with a strong export-oriented business model, has announced the launch of its Initial Public Offering (IPO), which will open for subscription on September 23, 2026. The company plans to raise up to ₹150.71 crore at the upper end of the price band, marking a significant milestone in its journey toward becoming a publicly listed enterprise.

The IPO comprises a total offer of 1,12,47,000 equity shares with a face value of ₹10 each. This includes a fresh issue of up to 98,97,000 equity shares and an Offer for Sale (OFS) of up to 13,50,000 equity shares. The shares are proposed to be listed on both the BSE and NSE.

The company has fixed the price band at ₹126 to ₹134 per equity share, while investors can bid in lots of 111 shares. Anchor investor bidding is scheduled for September 22, 2026, with the public issue remaining open from September 23 to September 25, 2026.

IPO Structure and Allocation

Under the book-building process, the company has earmarked:

• Up to 50% of the offer for Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs)
• Not less than 15% for Non-Institutional Investors (NIIs)
• Not less than 35% for Retail Individual Investors (RIIs)

The IPO is being managed by Choice Capital Advisors Private Limited as the Book Running Lead Manager, while Bigshare Services Private Limited is acting as the registrar to the issue.

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Funding Expansion Across Manufacturing Operations

The proceeds from the fresh issue are expected to support Adroit Industries' next phase of expansion. The company intends to deploy the funds toward capacity enhancement and operational modernization across its manufacturing facilities.

A significant portion of the capital will be utilized for the procurement of machinery and equipment at the company's Dewas facility, along with transportation vehicles to improve logistics between plants. Additionally, funds will be invested in its subsidiary, Adroit Driveshafts Private Limited, for expanding machinery and equipment at the Pithampur facility, strengthening intra-facility transportation capabilities, and repaying certain outstanding borrowings. The balance will be used for general corporate purposes.

Four Decades of Manufacturing Expertise

Adroit Industries has built a reputation over more than 40 years as a vertically integrated manufacturer of driveline solutions. Its product portfolio includes over 5,000 SKUs, ranging from propeller shaft assemblies, yokes, shafts and companion flanges to universal joints and related accessories.

The company caters primarily to the automotive sector, particularly commercial vehicles and SUVs, while also serving a growing range of non-automotive segments including defence and emergency services, industrial equipment, heavy machinery, and off-highway applications.

What distinguishes Adroit is its extensive in-house manufacturing capability. The company operates three facilities in Madhya Pradesh:

• Dewas Facility for die making and forging operations
• Pithampur Facility, operated through subsidiary Adroit Driveshafts Private Limited, for machining and assembly
• Sanwer Road Facility for finishing operations

Together, these facilities provide end-to-end manufacturing capabilities covering forging, precision machining, heat treatment, assembly, balancing, and testing.

Export-Led Growth Story

Having commenced operations in 1966, Adroit has steadily transformed itself into an export-driven enterprise. In Fiscal 2026, approximately 95.39% of its product sales were generated from international markets, reflecting its strong global footprint.

The company currently serves customers across more than 32 countries and supports its North American operations through a Canadian subsidiary. Its customer base includes distributors, OEMs and Tier-1 driveline component suppliers, with 185 customers served during Fiscal 2026.

This extensive international reach, coupled with diversified end-use applications, has helped the company establish long-standing relationships across multiple geographies and industries.

Leadership Confident of Next Growth Phase

Commenting on the IPO, Saurabh Sangla, Chairman and Managing Director of Adroit Industries (India) Limited, described the public issue as a pivotal step in the company's evolution.

He noted that the company has built integrated capabilities across the entire manufacturing value chain and developed a broad product portfolio serving customers worldwide. Going forward, management intends to focus on expanding manufacturing capacities, enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening relationships with distributors, OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers, and widening the company's presence across both automotive and non-automotive segments.

According to Sangla, the IPO will provide financial support for these strategic growth initiatives and help the company pursue its long-term expansion objectives.

Investor Interest Expected in Specialized Engineering Play

Industry observers see Adroit's IPO as an opportunity for investors to participate in a niche manufacturing business with established export credentials. The company combines vertically integrated operations, a diversified customer mix, and significant international exposure, all of which have contributed to its growth trajectory.

Ratiraj Tibrewal, Director of Choice Capital Advisors Private Limited, highlighted the company's four-decade track record, integrated manufacturing model and diversified customer base as key strengths. He stated that the listing represents an important step in Adroit's corporate journey and positions the company to capitalize on future growth opportunities.

Strong Financial Performance

For Fiscal 2026, Adroit Industries reported:

• Revenue from Operations: ₹1,399.43 million
• EBITDA: ₹387.10 million
• Profit After Tax (PAT): ₹261.58 million

The performance underscores the company's operational strength and profitability as it prepares to access public capital markets.

Looking Ahead

As global demand for commercial vehicles, industrial equipment and specialized driveline solutions continues to evolve, Adroit Industries is positioning itself to scale its manufacturing footprint and deepen its international reach. The upcoming IPO is expected to provide the resources necessary to strengthen capacity, enhance efficiency and support the company's ambitions in both domestic and global markets.

With a strong export orientation, vertically integrated manufacturing ecosystem and diversified application base, Adroit Industries enters the public market at a stage where it is seeking to convert decades of engineering expertise into its next chapter of growth

Dubai Real Estate: Fear vs. Reality in a Market Built on Resilience

As geopolitical tensions dominate headlines and investors weigh their next move, Dubai's property market offers a compelling lesson in resilience. While uncertainty often triggers caution, history suggests that Dubai's real estate story has rarely been defined by fear. Instead, it has been shaped by its ability to recover, adapt and emerge stronger from every downturn.

The Psychology of Uncertainty

Whenever uncertainty rises across global markets, investors tend to react in a predictable way. Decisions are postponed, capital sits on the sidelines, and a "wait-and-watch" approach becomes the norm.

Today is no different.

From geopolitical tensions to concerns about global economic growth, sentiment has become increasingly cautious. Yet seasoned investors understand that real estate markets are rarely driven by headlines alone. They are driven by fundamentals, demand, liquidity, and long-term confidence.

Dubai's real estate market has repeatedly demonstrated that distinction.

A History of Recoveries

Over the past two decades, Dubai has faced several significant challenges.

The global financial crisis of 2008 tested investor confidence worldwide. A market correction followed in 2014. Then came the unprecedented disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Each of these episodes generated uncertainty. Each led many buyers to step back from the market. Yet each time, Dubai recovered and subsequently entered new growth phases.

This historical pattern is important because it places current concerns into context. What the market is experiencing today is not an unfamiliar situation but another chapter in a cycle that Dubai has navigated before.

The Numbers Tell a Different Story

While concerns dominate conversations, transaction activity tells a more balanced story. Dubai recorded approximately AED 419.94 billion in real estate transactions during the first half of 2026, across 112,850 transactions. That translates to approximately ₹10.7 lakh crore worth of real estate transactions in just six months.

For comparison, Mumbai, one of India's largest and most mature property markets, recorded roughly ₹1.62 lakh crore in annual real estate activity during 2025.

The comparison is striking.

Despite global uncertainty, Dubai nearly matched an entire year's worth of transactions from India's financial capital in just two months. Such activity suggests that the market is far from stalled. Buyers remain active, and more importantly, serious investors continue to deploy capital.

Developers Are Becoming More Flexible

Another notable shift is taking place on the developer side. For much of the recent property cycle, rapidly rising demand gave buyers limited room to negotiate. Flexible payment terms and incentives were less common as developers enjoyed strong pricing power.

That dynamic is beginning to evolve.

Developers are increasingly introducing attractive payment plans, waiving certain fees, and offering greater flexibility to close transactions. These are incentives that many market participants last saw during the COVID-era slowdown.

For prospective investors, this creates an interesting opportunity. It improves affordability while reducing the upfront financial burden often associated with property acquisition.

A Window for Strategic Entry

Many investors have followed Dubai's growth story over the last two or three years without taking action. Some felt prices had moved too quickly. Others believed better opportunities might emerge later.

Today's environment is attracting that group back into the market.

When transaction activity remains strong but negotiations become easier, experienced investors often view it as a potential entry window rather than a warning sign.

Markets rarely offer perfect conditions. More often, opportunities emerge when sentiment is cautious but fundamentals remain intact.

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Understanding Dubai's Geopolitical Position

One of the biggest misconceptions affecting investor sentiment today stems from geopolitical headlines.

Although the region has been under increased international scrutiny, Dubai itself has not been a direct participant in ongoing conflicts. The emirate has maintained its focus on stability, business continuity and economic growth.

For global investors, neutrality matters.

Dubai's long-standing reputation as a global financial, commercial and tourism hub has been built on its ability to provide a stable environment for businesses and international capital. This remains one of its strongest competitive advantages.

Many regional investors believe that when broader geopolitical concerns ease, Dubai could be among the first markets to benefit from renewed confidence and capital inflows.

Growing Interest from Indian Investors

Indian investors continue to play an increasingly important role in Dubai's property ecosystem.

The city offers several factors that appeal to Indian buyers, including proximity, global connectivity, transparent regulations, rental yield potential, and a business-friendly environment.

Over the past few years, many Indian investors have closely monitored Dubai's post-pandemic growth trajectory. With developers now offering more flexible deal structures, a growing number feel the timing may be more favourable than it was during the peak of the recent upswing.

The Often-Ignored Currency Advantage

One factor that receives far less attention than property prices is currency appreciation.

In 2020, the UAE dirham traded at approximately ₹19. Today, it is closer to ₹25. The impact of that shift is significant.

An investor purchasing a property worth AED 1 million in 2020 would have invested roughly ₹1.9 crore at the prevailing exchange rate. At today's exchange rate, that same AED-denominated value equates to approximately ₹2.5 crore.

In other words, currency movement alone would have enhanced the rupee value of the asset.

Add several years of rental income, and the overall investment outcome becomes more compelling, even if capital appreciation in property prices was moderate.

This highlights an important principle: international real estate returns are rarely dependent on property appreciation alone. Rental yields, currency movements, asset quality, and long-term market positioning all contribute to overall performance.

Looking Beyond the Headlines

Real estate is inherently a forward-looking asset class. Markets do not wait for complete certainty before moving higher. By the time confidence fully returns, many of the best opportunities have often passed.

For short-term investors with a three-month horizon, today's environment may appear uncomfortable. For long-term investors looking three to five years ahead, the same environment may represent an opportunity to accumulate quality assets under more favourable conditions.

The Bottom Line

Every market carries risk, and Dubai is no exception.

However, the fundamental question facing investors today is not whether risk exists. The more relevant question is whether current concerns are temporary or structural. The evidence suggests that Dubai's long-term fundamentals remain largely intact. Transaction volumes continue to demonstrate demand, developers are once again offering attractive incentives, and international investor interest remains robust.

Dubai's reputation was not built during easy times. It was built through repeated cycles of challenge, recovery and reinvention.

For investors evaluating their next move, the current moment may be less about stepping back in fear and more about stepping forward with greater strategy, patience and perspective.

Because in real estate, the greatest opportunities often emerge when the market conversation is dominated by uncertainty rather than confidence.

 

(Feature by Smit C. Gala , Global Head Of Sales , Viara Properties LLC.)

 

5 Everyday Habits That Could Be Quietly Damaging Your Oral Health

Oral health is shaped not only by brushing and flossing but also by the small habits we repeat every day. While a solid routine forms the foundation of a healthy smile, brushing and flossing only account for a few minutes of the day. Throughout the remaining hours, our teeth, gums, and jaws are constantly impacted by the subconscious choices we make, the foods we graze on, and the ways we react to daily stress.

While some behaviours may seem harmless, they can gradually contribute to tooth decay, enamel erosion, gum problems, and other dental issues over time. Minor actions—like slowly sipping a beverage over several hours, chewing on pens, or clenching your jaw when focused—seem entirely inconsequential in the moment. However, these repeated behaviors act as a slow, continuous strain on your mouth. Over months and years, they quietly deplete protective saliva and weaken tooth structures, transforming minor wear into severe enamel loss, deep fractures, and receding gums.

Here are five everyday habits that could be quietly affecting your oral health.

1. Sipping on Sugary or Acidic Drinks Throughout the Day

It's not just how much sugar you consume, but how often your teeth are exposed to it. Frequently sipping soft drinks, iced teas, sports drinks, flavoured coffees, or fruit juices keeps your teeth under repeated acid attacks, increasing the risk of enamel erosion and cavities. Drinking these beverages in one sitting rather than over several hours and rinsing with water afterwards can help minimise the damage.

2. Stress-Induced Teeth Grinding

Many people grind or clench their teeth during sleep without being aware of it. This is often linked to stress or anxiety and can gradually wear down enamel, cause jaw pain, headaches, and even lead to cracked teeth. Persistent grinding should be assessed by a dentist early to prevent long-term damage.

3. Mouth Breathing Instead of Nose Breathing

Whether caused by allergies, nasal congestion, or sleep-related issues, frequent mouth breathing reduces saliva production and leaves the mouth dry. Since saliva plays a vital role in protecting teeth against bacteria and acids, chronic dry mouth can increase the risk of cavities, bad breath, and gum disease.

4. Using Your Teeth as Everyday Tools

Opening bottles, tearing food packets, biting fingernails, or chewing on pens may seem harmless, but these habits place unnecessary pressure on your teeth. Over time, they can lead to chipped enamel, fractures, and damage that may require dental treatment.

5. Constant Snacking Instead of Giving Your Teeth Time to Recover

Every snack restarts the acid cycle inside your mouth. Frequent grazing throughout the day gives enamel little time to recover, creating conditions that allow bacteria to grow. Limiting unnecessary snacking and choosing tooth-friendly options can significantly improve long-term oral health.

Good oral health is influenced by the choices we make every day. By recognising these often-overlooked habits and making small lifestyle changes, individuals can reduce their risk of future dental problems and maintain healthier smiles for years to come. Modern dentistry is increasingly focused on prevention, helping patients address issues before they become serious.

The good news is that identifying and correcting these habits early can go a long way in protecting your smile. Because these habits take time to cause lasting structural damage, you have a major window of opportunity to intervene. By building awareness of your daily routines and replacing harmful habits with tooth-friendly alternatives, you can halt dental wear before it requires invasive, costly treatment. Safeguarding your smile is ultimately about the small, intentional adjustments you make every single day.

- By Dr. Jaineel Parekh, Orthodontist, Laxmi Dental Limited

How Telematics Is Becoming a Women-Safety Layer for Fleet Management

From tracking vehicles to protecting the people inside them, India’s fleet-management ecosystem is increasingly putting safety at the centre of mobility

For years, fleet telematics was largely associated with GPS tracking, route optimisation, fuel monitoring and operational efficiency. That narrative is now changing. As companies increasingly depend on employee transport, last-mile delivery and commercial mobility, real-time visibility is becoming equally important for passenger and driver safety , particularly for women travelling during late or off-hours.

The shift is visible in the growing convergence of GPS, AI-powered video telematics, geofencing, driver monitoring and emergency alerts. Platforms such as Roadcast are moving beyond conventional vehicle tracking by combining real-time fleet visibility with AI-based monitoring of driver behaviour, including fatigue, distraction, speeding and other risk indicators. Roadcast also highlights the use of video telematics and two-way communication to support passenger safety and faster intervention during emergencies.

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The employee-transport ecosystem has been addressing a similar concern. MoveInSync, for instance, has built women-safety mechanisms into corporate commute management, including real-time vehicle monitoring, SOS alerts, geofencing, drop verification and safe-reach confirmation for women employees travelling during logout shifts.

What is emerging, therefore, is a move from “Where is the vehicle?” to “What is happening inside and around the vehicle?” A fleet manager can increasingly be alerted to route deviations, unexpected stoppages, unsafe driving behaviour or potential incidents in real time. AI-powered cameras can also identify indicators such as fatigue, distraction and lack of seatbelt compliance, allowing organisations to intervene before a situation escalates.

This is particularly relevant as India's mobility ecosystem becomes more dependent on fleets transporting women employees, gig workers and customers. The conversation is consequently shifting from surveillance to preventive safety infrastructure creating accountability for drivers, greater visibility for employers and an additional layer of reassurance for passengers.

The larger trend is clear: fleet telematics is no longer just an efficiency tool. It is increasingly becoming part of the safety architecture of modern mobility. As AI, connected cameras and real-time analytics mature, the next generation of fleet management may be judged not only by how efficiently a vehicle reaches its destination, but by how safely every person inside it gets there.

Another important development is the growing integration of telematics with emergency-response workflows. In situations involving route deviations, vehicle breakdowns or distress alerts, telematics platforms can now share live vehicle locations with control centres, transport teams and authorised responders. This shortens response times and helps organisations maintain visibility during critical moments. For women travelling during late-night shifts, the ability to access real-time support rather than waiting until after an incident has occurred adds an important layer of confidence and protection.

The technology is also helping organisations create a more transparent and accountable mobility ecosystem. Every trip generates a digital trail of routes taken, stoppages made, driving behaviour and safety events. This not only assists in incident investigation when required but also encourages safer driving practices and compliance with company transport policies. As enterprises place greater emphasis on employee wellbeing, telematics is increasingly being viewed not just as an operational tool, but as a measurable component of workplace safety and duty-of-care commitments.

Smart Office Furniture: Acoustic office pods and the right seating cuts fatigue and sharpens thinking

Why Furniture Is the Smartest Line Item in an Office Fit-Out

Furniture Is 30% of the Fit-Out. 100% of the Experience

A commercial office fit-out budget reveals what a business truly values. Yet most workplace design budgets carry an imbalance. A big chunk of the budget goes to ceilings, flooring, and finishes that employees barely notice.

While office furniture is treated as a secondary expense, it is what drives employee experience, wellbeing, productivity and the entire workplace experience.

In most commercial fitouts, furniture accounts for around a third of the budget. It is also the most consequential line item on the budget. Furniture may be 30% of the spend, but it is close to 100% of the experience. It is where the investment in workplace design becomes tangible.

The building is the framework. The furniture is the interface.

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Getting that interface right means choosing the right pieces, for the right space with the right furniture partner. After studying the Indian market, delivers smart furniture for workplaces, homes, hospitality, retail and outdoor spaces. Here’s why smart furniture can change the way a workplace works.

The 30% that decides how the other 70% feels

Base build, services and MEP costs absorb most of any office fit-out, and they are essential. But people experience them only through the furniture. They feel whether the desk is the right height. No one admires the acoustic ceiling. They notice whether they can concentrate.

Furniture connects an organisation’s investment with the people it serves, shaping an experience that extends far beyond its share of the cost.

Global workplace reports find that only 13% of employees feel both highly engaged and satisfied at work. Engagement rises when the workplace adapts to the person.

Giving people the freedom to move, change posture and choose where to work creates flexibility. Furniture makes it possible.

Every furniture piece is a business decision

Ergonomic office chairs are a good example. Industry research shows that people shift their torso around 53 times an hour while seated. The body is never still and a chair that ignores that taxes attention all day.

The right seating cuts fatigue and sharpens thinking because it stops competing for focus. An ergonomic chair is a productivity instrument.

The same body shouldn’t sit all day either. A few high end furniture companies have come up with height-adjustable tables use smart technology to make switching between sitting and standing easy, with power and connectivity built in.

Then there is office noise, the problem that quietly costs the most. Across the world’s largest workplace acoustics datasets, it is the number one complaint in open-plan offices.

Global research puts the productive sweet spot for office noise reduction near 50 decibels. Once you’re interrupted, it can take about 23 minutes to get back into deep work. Acoustic office pods are built to close this gap.

Acoustic silence pods and open office pods block outside noise and create a comfortable space for calls and focused work. Some high-end Studio Pods and Flow Pods deliver high-quality acoustic privacy for individual and collaborative work without disrupting the wider workspace.

No two spaces have the same needs, which is why customisation matters

Architects and interior designers know what a space needs. The challenge is finding custom office furniture that matches the design and coordinating multiple vendors to deliver it.

There are B2B furniture fit-out providers who simplify the process with a single source for custom and premium commercial furniture solutions, from your drawings to the finished space.

People hear customisation and think styling, but it really is about fit. The right balance of open and enclosed spaces, focus and privacy, with materials chosen for how people use the space. Get it wrong and people spend their days adapting themselves to it.

The budget sees furniture as a third. People experience it as the whole. Interior designers, architects and organisations that understand this choose a workplace furniture partner who understands what the space needs.

Smart workplace furniture is about shaping better human experiences today and designing for how people will use spaces tomorrow.

 

(By Nikhil Wadhwani, Founder & Workplace Strategist, Ovvio)

 

As Indian Travel to Indonesia Rises, Taman Safari Highlights Wildlife Tourism Beyond Bali's Beaches

Mumbai: As Indian tourist arrivals in Indonesia continue to grow, Taman Safari Indonesia (TSI) is positioning wildlife tourism as an alternative to the country's traditional beach and urban itineraries.

The conservation and wildlife management group operates a network of safari parks and nature resorts across Java and Bali, offering visitors the opportunity to observe animals such as Komodo dragons, Sumatran elephants, orangutans, and tigers in expansive, naturalistic settings.

The focus on wildlife experiences comes amid a steady increase in Indian arrivals to Indonesia. Data from Statistics Indonesia show that Indian visitor numbers rose from 606,439 in 2023 to 710,207 in 2024, while Indonesian tourism authorities have set higher targets for the Indian market in the coming years. Improved air connectivity between major Indian cities and Indonesia, coupled with visa-on-arrival facilities, has further strengthened travel demand.

Against this backdrop, Taman Safari Indonesia is encouraging travellers to explore destinations beyond conventional sightseeing circuits. The group operates six wildlife and recreation destinations and manages more than 22,000 animals representing 673 species, combining conservation, education, and tourism experiences.

For Indian families, wildlife enthusiasts, and photography travellers, the parks offer safari-style journeys through open habitats, alongside resort stays set amid Indonesia's tropical landscapes. The experiences are designed to showcase the country's biodiversity while introducing visitors to some of Southeast Asia's most iconic and endangered species.

In an exclusive interview with Universal Newsline, Alexander Zulkarnain, Chief Marketing Officer of Taman Safari Indonesia Group, shares insights into how Taman Safari Parks in Indonesia cater to the evolving needs of Indian travellers.

Most of the Indian tourists are particular about their food. What dining options do you offer for Indian visitors?
We understand the importance of food for our Indian guests. We already have Indian chefs on our team and offer multiple food corners and restaurants serving authentic Indian cuisine. 

As per our park regulations, visitors are not permitted to bring outside food into our parks. However, we ensure that the quality and authenticity of our Indian meals meet the expectations of Indian travelers and align with the service standards we promise our guests.

What about families travelling with infants or children who may require homemade or special meals?
We provide pre-booked meal options for guests with special requirements. Whether it is food for infants, children or guests with specific dietary needs, arrangements can be made in advance. Visitors can inform their tour agent or our representatives about their requirements. We work closely with destination management companies (DMCs), travel partners in India, and our teams in Bali and Jakarta. Once the request is communicated, our Indian chefs can prepare customized meals accordingly.

Are there specific animal shows or presentations that visitors should plan their visit around?
At Taman Safari, we prefer to call them Animal Presentations and Educational Programs rather than animal shows because we are fundamentally a conservation organization. We conduct a variety of animal presentations throughout the day, led by our animal educators and caregivers. These programs are designed not only to entertain but also to educate visitors about wildlife conservation, the relationship between humans and nature, and the importance of protecting animals from threats such as poaching.

Our goal is to tell compelling stories that help audiences understand how humans, wildlife, and nature can coexist in harmony.

Indian tourists come from different budget segments, from backpackers to affluent luxury travelers. What kind of packages do you offer?
We recognize that travelers have different expectations and budgets. We offer affordable ticket options suitable for value-conscious visitors and the growing Indian middle class, which has significant purchasing power. At the same time, we also cater to high-net-worth and ultra-luxury travelers who seek personalized services and exclusive experiences.

Our goal is to ensure that every visitor, regardless of budget, enjoys a memorable safari experience.

Muchamad Raynald Ghazali, Ms. Endrati Fatriani, Alexander Zulkarnain and Ms. Naomyscha Attalie Maza

Do you offer multi-day packages?

Each of our parks is designed to provide a full-day experience. However, guests staying in our resorts can extend their visit into a two-day or longer experience. Resort stays allow visitors to enjoy additional activities and immerse themselves more deeply in the wildlife and nature experiences that Taman Safari offers.

For a backpacker or budget traveler, what would be the approximate daily cost?
For an individual traveler, the approximate cost could range between US$50 and US$100 per day. However, the final cost depends on factors such as the season, accommodation choice, and specific travel arrangements. During high season prices may be higher, while low-season travel can be more economical.

Many Indians travel to destinations such as the Middle East and Singapore. Why should they choose Indonesia and Taman Safari?
The answer is simple: nature, culture and culinary experiences. Indonesia offers a unique combination of breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage and diverse cuisine that cannot be replicated elsewhere. These are experiences visitors can only find in Indonesia.

Taman Safari allows guests to enjoy these elements in a truly immersive way while connecting with wildlife and conservation efforts.

During your presentation, you mentioned resorts where guests can see animals directly from their rooms. Which properties offer this experience?
We offer this unique experience at selected properties in Bali and East Java. Guests can enjoy wildlife views directly from their accommodation, creating an unforgettable and immersive stay.

Do travelers need to book special cottages or rooms for this experience?
Yes. For our Bali properties, I strongly recommend booking two to three months in advance. Early booking not only provides better room choices but is often more reasonably priced.

Our Baobab Resort in East Java offers more than 140 rooms, making availability easier. However, guests who want premium room selections should still book ahead to secure their preferred accommodation.

The Exciting Marine Safari Bali is an underwater wonderland spanning rainforest, river, estuary and open ocean ecosystems, home to 10,000+ fish across 300 species, marine mammals, Humboldt penguins and 12 land animal and bird habitats. Varuna, located within Marine Safari Bali, is Indonesia’s first underwater theater restaurant, opened on December 20, 2023, combining fine dining, theatrical performances and underwater views. 

More about Taman Safari properties across Indonesia

The Amazing Taman Safari Bali houses 4,424 animals across 275 species from Indonesia, India and Africa, with Safari Journey, night safari, lion feeding, the Bali Agung show and the five star, 45 room Mara River Safari Lodge. Enchanting Valley by Taman Safari in Cisarua, Puncak Bogor spans 22 hectares and combines nature, adventure, music and culinary experiences, including the LILA Show, Angklung Show, interactive petting zoo and family attractions. The Great Taman Safari Bogor, established in 1981 across 55 hectares, is home to 8,700+ animals across 400 species, including Giant Pandas Cai Tao and Hu Chun, with Safari Journey, night safari, lion feeding, 25 rides and 20+ shows.

The Grand Taman Safari Prigen houses 2,400+ animals across 225 species across three themed zones, with ATV Adventure, giraffe feeding, Safari Water World and the four star, 148 room Baobab Safari Resort. Jakarta Aquarium & Safari, Indonesia’s largest indoor aquarium, features 3,500+ aquatic and non aquatic animals across 13 zones, including capybaras, seals and penguins, plus animal feeding, Aqua Trekking and penguin dining at Pingoo Restaurant. Solo Safari spans 14 hectares and houses 400+ animals across 90 species, combining wildlife education with family attractions and Javanese heritage. The Funtastic Beach Safari Batang, Indonesia’s only safari park on the beachfront, spans 5 hectares and houses 280 animals, combining wildlife encounters, dolphin conservation and beach experiences.

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To ensure a seamless and comfortable journey for Indian guests, Taman Safari Indonesia parks offer vegetarian and Indian dining options, with Indian chefs at selected properties, alongside private vehicle tours, multilingual guides and customizable family and multigenerational travel packages. Special dietary requirements, including Jain meals, can be discussed with the property in advance.

Taman Safari Indonesia is a world class themed recreation park and conservation institution located across six locations and four resorts throughout Indonesia. The network is home to more than 673 species and 22,000 animals, and welcomes more than 5,000,000 visitors every year. Since 1980, Taman Safari Indonesia has played a critical role in saving, rehabilitating, and releasing thousands of animals back into the wild, establishing itself as a leading global conservation organization for Indonesia's endemic wildlife and endangered species. TSI is a member of WAZA (The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums), SEAZA (The Southeast Asian Zoo Association), CPSG (The Conservation Planning Specialist Group), and PKBSI (The Indonesian Zoological Parks Association), and has earned more than 20 national awards for its conservation and recreation work.

For further information about Taman Safari Indonesia destinations across Bali and Jakarta, accommodation options, various attractions and  services, visitors can explore their website at www.tamansafari.com or follow them on Instagram at @tamansafari.id.

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