Women's employment in urban India has jumped 10 per cent in the last six years (2017-18 to 2023-24), according to a report, ahead of the International Women’s Day 2025, on Friday. The white paper launched by Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai, showed that urban women in their forties have the highest employment rate among women in urban India -- 38.3 per cent in 2023-24. It also warned of pressing challenges including the underutilisation of educated women’s skills and the looming risk of a diversity backlash. More than 89 million urban Indian women still remained out of the labour market during 2023-24, said the report. Factors such as caregiving responsibilities, lack of flexible work arrangements, and commuting challenges continue to prevent many highly qualified women from fully participating in the economy. Further, in a concerning trend, young male unemployment in urban India outpaced women's (10 per cent vs 7.5 per cent for ages 20-24). The findings also highlighted gender gaps even in highly educated households. Even among dual-income, highly educated couples, gender disparities remain stark. In 62 per cent of such families, husbands earn more, despite equal educational qualifications. Additionally, wives continue to take on the primary responsibility for household work in 41 per cent of homes, compared to just 2 per cent of husbands. Meanwhile, the balance remains elusive for urban mothers with access to remote work -- 86 per cent report spending up to three workday hours on childcare while working. Yet only 44 per cent feel they have adequate support. This reinforces the need for stronger workplace policies that acknowledge and address the realities of working mothers. “While women’s workforce participation in urban India is rising, it is not yet translating into true gender parity in earnings, career growth, and domestic responsibilities. To drive real change, first, we need more employment opportunities for all,” said Dr. Vidya Mahambare, Professor of Economics and Director, Great Lakes Institute of Management. She also called for "structural reforms in childcare policies, flexible work arrangements, and a shift in societal norms that continue to burden women disproportionately.” This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
07 March,2025 02:30 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSThe much-awaited Sunburn Arena ft. Zedd Tour has officially landed in India and the Bengaluru show was nothing short of spectacular. Making his grand return to the country, the Grammy-winning DJ and producer set the stage on fire, delivering a high-octane performance that left fans in absolute awe. The night was an explosive celebration of music, energy and unfiltered euphoria. As the sun began to set, the anticipation in the air was palpable. Before Zedd took the stage, DJs Trement and DJ Prithvi mesmerised the crowd, setting the perfect tone for the night. Mesto then took over, delivering a thrilling set that had the crowd moving ensuring the stage was set for the night’s main event. The moment Zedd took the stage, the crowd erupted in cheers. With pulsating visuals, immersive production and a setlist packed with fan-favourites, the night unfolded like a dream. The audience sang along to superhit anthems like ‘Clarity’, ‘The Middle’, ‘Stay the Night’ and ‘Beautiful Now’, while massive drops, seamless transitions and stunning light displays kept the energy at an all-time high. The synergy between Zedd and his fans was undeniable, as thousands danced in unison, lost in the music. The highlight of the evening was when Zedd dropped a banger ‘Clarity’, ‘Beautiful Now’ and the best of his Telos album ‘Lucky’, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The excitement was unmatched as the entire venue echoed with fans singing at the top of their lungs. As the night progressed, Zedd continued to take the audience on an electrifying journey, blending his chart-toppers with unexpected surprises and remixes that kept fans on their toes. The night wasn’t just about the music—it was an immersive, multi-sensory experience. The production was on another level, with larger-than-life LED visuals, mind-blowing pyrotechnics and a flawless audio setup that made every drop hit harder. Fans were transported into Zedd’s sonic universe, where every beat pulsed through the crowd like an adrenaline rush. Bringing the unforgettable night to a close, Zedd left the audience in a state of pure rapture as fireworks rained down and the final beat echoed through the arena. Karan Singh, CEO, Sunburn, added, "Bringing Zedd back to India was always going to be monumental and last night proved just how deeply fans here love him. The energy in the arena was unparalleled and it’s exactly this kind of passion that makes Sunburn Arena so special.” After an electrifying kick-off, anticipation is soaring as the Telos Tour heads to Delhi-NCR on March 7. Fans can gear up for another night of high-octane EDM as Zedd brings his signature sound, massive drops and unforgettable moments to the stage once more.
07 March,2025 01:57 PM IST | Bengaluru | mid-day online correspondentAs the world gets ready to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, there are many different ways to showcase your admiration for them. One of the easiest ways is to listen and acknowledge the stories of these extraordinary women who have broken barriers and reshaped the world in their own powerful ways. With this year’s theme being ‘Accelerate Action,’ calling for a more inclusive future, what better way to listen, learn, and be inspired than by listening to those women who’ve led the charge? From Bollywood icon Kareena Kapoor Khan and leading digital creator Prajakta Koli to acclaimed author Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni and financial expert Monika Halan, these women have made an undeniable impact across industries and Audible brings their stories—and many more—right to you! A hub of literature, entertainment, and knowledge, Audible is home to countless such women-led narratives waiting to be explored! These seven audiobooks listed below are authored by or featuring remarkable women who have carved their own paths and left a mark. Their journeys are lessons in resilience, ambition, and the courage to challenge the status quo. Ready to tune in? Then let’s celebrate Women’s Day with voices that truly matter. 1. Actor & Performer: Kareena Kapoor KhanMarvel's Wastelanders: Black Widow (Hindi Edition)Kareena Kapoor Khan steps into the world of audio storytelling as the voice of Helen Black, aka Black Widow, in this gripping Hindi Audible Original. Set nearly thirty years after the villains' triumph, Helen finds herself in The Onar—a luxurious yet dystopian complex run by S.H.I.E.L.D., where the rich thrive and the rest barely survive. Little does she know, her new neighbour, Lisa Cartwright (Masaba Gupta), is hired to uncover the secrets Helen is hiding. With themes of loss, redemption, and unbreakable hope, this series is perfect for an International Women’s Day binge, especially for women who’ll find strength in its resilience and raw emotional depth. 2. Influencer, Digital Creator & Actor: Prajakta KoliDesi Down UnderIn this series, you will meet Meenu, a fierce and rebellious woman played by the talented Prajakta Koli, as she pushes boundaries while training as a lifesaver at Sydney's Coogee beach. Alongside her childhood best friend Devan and her wild twin brother Rahul, Meenu faces challenges that not only test their courage but also their bonds. As they work toward earning their Bronze Medallion, Meenu’s journey is an inspiring story of defying expectations, chasing dreams, and finding love in the most unexpected places. A must-listen for every woman who dares to break free and live her truth. 3. Author & Poet: Chitra Banerjee DivakaruniThe Last QueenRani Jindan Kaur’s story is a lesson in courage, resilience, and defiance. Born into modest beginnings, she rose to become Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s last queen and later, the fierce regent fighting to protect her son’s throne from British annexation. She shattered norms, cast aside the veil, and led her warriors into battle, proving that strength isn’t confined to men. Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s gripping audiobook brings this fearless queen to life—an unmissable listen. 4. Nutritionist & Wellness Guru: Rujuta DiwekarWomen and the Weight Loss TamashaRujuta Diwekar, the nutritionist who changed the way we look at food, created this essential guide tailored for women at every stage of life. From puberty to menopause—and all the real-life challenges in between—she breaks down how food, exercise, sleep, and relationships shape our well-being. In her signature no-nonsense style, she busts myths about hormones, weight loss, and lifestyle disorders like PCOD and thyroid issues, proving that staying healthy isn’t about restrictions but smart choices. This audiobook is a game-changer for women who want to take charge of their health without guilt or confusion. 5. Motivational Speaker: Mel RobbinsThe Let Them Theory Let Them. Two simple words that could change everything—especially for women who constantly juggle expectations, relationships, and self-doubt. Mel Robbins hands you the key to breaking free from the need to control, please, or manage everyone around you. She shares stories, science-backed insights, and expert advice to help you refocus on what truly matters: your happiness, your goals, and your life. If you're ready to stop overthinking, stop comparing, and start living unapologetically, this audiobook is your ultimate guide to self-empowerment. 6. Financial Planner: Monika HalanLet’s Talk MoneyMoney matters, but so does peace of mind! No matter how much we earn, the constant juggle between bills, savings, and future security never really stops—especially while managing careers, families, and personal goals all at once. In this audiobook, India’s most trusted financial planner, Monika Halan, cuts through the jargon to offer a smart, practical system to make your money work for you. This isn’t about quick riches—it’s about financial independence, confidence, and living the life you truly deserve, without the stress. 7. Businessperson and Leader: Arundhati BhattacharyaIndomitable It is the inspiring story of Arundhati Bhattacharya, a woman who rose from humble beginnings in small-town India to become the chairperson of India's largest bank, State Bank of India. Despite the challenges of a male-dominated industry, a demanding career, and balancing family life, Arundhati never gave up on her dreams. The audiobook offers a motivating look at her incredible journey, filled with resilience and unwavering determination. A perfect listen for every woman seeking motivation to break barriers and achieve greatness in their lives.
07 March,2025 01:01 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThis summer, global beer brand Corona makes its highly anticipated debut at Lollapalooza India. Set against Mumbai’s vibrant backdrop on March 8 and 9, festival-goers will experience an unforgettable blend of golden moments where music, culture, and the magic of sunset converge. Lollapalooza India and Corona are coming together create the perfect pairing – both celebrating youthful carefree energy, and authentic connections. Across four dynamic stages, including Corona’s takeover of the main stage – as Corona Sunsets Stage, featuring over 30 iconic artists, the collaboration promises a vibrant mix of global and homegrown talent come together to create golden moments all weekend long. “Lollapalooza India has become a cultural landmark that brings together music, art, and celebration for young Indians. With Corona making its debut this year, we are excited to create unique experiences that capture the magic of golden hours and the spirit of celebration that defines the brand.”, said Vineet Sharma, Vice President – Marketing & Trade Marketing, AB InBev India. “Through this collaboration, we’re inviting festival-goers to experience Corona’s philosophy of celebrating life’s golden moments with their friends. The sunset serves as a powerful metaphor for transitioning from the everyday to the extraordinary – exactly what Corona stands for in the lives of our consumers.” Performance Guide to Corona Sunsets Stage at Lollapalooza India 2025 Day 1, SaturdayKicking off the excitement, Sid Vashi’s genre-blending energy sets the stage, followed by soulful melodies of Isabel Larosa. As the sun dips, singer Jonita Gandhi takes centre stage for Corona’s mesmerising ‘Own the Sunset’ moment – a fusion of music and nature’s golden hour. As the night reaches its electrifying peak, global music icon Shawn Mendes, delivering a headline performance that will set the Corona Sunsets Stage ablaze, ensuring festival-goers soak in every moment of music, energy, and celebration. Day 2, SundayThe momentum continues with the indie brilliance of Green Park, followed by that of Raman Negi’s evocative storytelling. British Rock Sensation Nothing But Thieves elevates the energy before the absolute legendary American rock band Green Day, brings Corona’s festival debut to an iconic close. Golden experiences:The Corona Ferris Wheel takes the festival to new heights, literally. Lit up with a dazzling spectacle of light that mirrors the sunset’s fiery oranges, deep magentas, and soft golds. As daylight fades, the wheel’s synchronised light display mirrors the changing sky, creating a perfect vantage point to watch the day transition into an electrifying night. Corona is also bringing alive Corona Vista- an immersive retreat where festival-goers can embrace the essence of golden moments with their friends. Corona’s interactive experiences allow festival goers to create lasting mementos of their golden moments. Festival-goers can create their own Corona Charm Bracelets as keepsakes, personalised fan posters at the Golden Canvas Fan DIY Station, and the Golden Memories Photobooth & Memories Wall, capturing the magic of Lollapalooza to relive long after the music fades. Corona is also hosting a Corona podcast from our Sunsoaked Stories Podcast Booth to capture the golden touchpoints in a festival-goer's journey. Through these carefully crafted experiences, Corona is positioning itself as more than a beer – it’s a lifestyle that celebrates natural connections with friends and the transformative power of the golden hour. Another must-visit at Lollapalooza is the Hoegaarden Café, bringing the charm of a European beer garden to the heart of the festival. With Hoegaarden’s flavourful Belgian wheat beer, this refreshing retreat is the perfect spot to sip, savour, and soak in the energy of the weekend. The café’s thoughtfully curated food experience is crafted in collaboration with The Big Forkers featuring small plates designed to perfectly complement the brews in delightful pairings. The Hoegaarden Café is a destination in itself, whether for a midday pause or a leisurely start to the festivities. With its unique blend of world-class performances, immersive installations and memorable experiences, Lollapalooza India 2025 promises a celebration where every sunset creates a golden moment worth savouring.
07 March,2025 12:32 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Indian tech startup ecosystem now ranks second, after the US, in terms of all-time funding raised by companies with women founders, with a total of USD 26 billion in this space to date, a report showed on Friday. India is home to over 7,000 active women-led startups, accounting for 7.5 per cent of all active startups in the country. These startups have collectively raised USD 26.4 billion in funding, with 2021 being the highest funded year at USD 6.3 billion, according to data by Tracxn, a leading startup research and analytics firm. Bengaluru leads in both the number of women-led startups and total funding raised to date, followed by Mumbai and Delhi-NCR. On a global scale, 2022 saw the highest funding contribution from Indian startups at 15.18 per cent. That year, women-led startups in India raised USD 5 billion, compared to USD 32.8 billion globally. In 2024, India ranked third globally in terms of funding raised by startups co-led by women, after the US and the UK, accounting for 3.96 per cent of funding raised by women-led startups across the globe. The retail sector takes a strong lead based on investments raised by women-led startups, securing USD 7.8 billion in all-time funding. Edtech (USD 5.4 billion) and Enterprise Applications (USD 5 billion) follow closely. Notably, sub-sectors such as B2C e-commerce, internet-first brands, and fashion tech are seeing significant activity, with several startups co-led by women, the report noted. The highest number of acquisitions of women-led startups was recorded in 2021, with 45 acquisitions. However, this number declined by 20 per cent to 36 in 2022, and further decreased by 30.5 per cent to 25 in 2023. In 2024, the number of acquisitions fell to 16. “These startups are not only securing massive funding but also redefining industries, generating employment, and setting new benchmarks for future entrepreneurs,” said the report. While the startup ecosystem still has a long way to go in bridging the gender funding gap, these trailblazers are proving that women-led startups are driving India's growth story. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
07 March,2025 12:02 PM IST | Bengaluru | IANSMore than half of India's small business owners that are females are using their personal savings to fuel their businesses, highlighting their financial independence and self-reliance, according to a recent survey conducted by NeoINSIGHTS. The survey, which covered over 3,000 women business owners across 20 cities, sheds light on the financial strategies, challenges, and support systems that shape their entrepreneurial journeys. The survey found that 51 per cent of women entrepreneurs rely on personal savings or emergency funds to meet their business needs. Apart from personal savings, 25 per cent of women turn to their families, including spouses and other family members, for financial support. This is especially common in industries that require higher capital investments. Meanwhile, 24 per cent use other sources of funding, such as loans, grants, or investors. Women entrepreneurs are not only managing their businesses independently but are also taking proactive steps to ensure financial stability. The survey pointed out that around 93 per cent women actively manage their finances, ensuring they meet their EMI payments on time and avoid excessive borrowing. This focus on financial discipline helps them build creditworthiness and sustain long-term growth. Despite growing confidence and financial awareness, young women entrepreneurs aged 20-30 face significant challenges, with 17 per cent experiencing resistance in their early years. Gender biases, limited financial knowledge, fluctuating market conditions, and a lack of mentorship networks for women are some of the key barriers they encounter. However, the survey also highlighted positive trends in support and respect for women entrepreneurs. An encouraging 88.47 per cent of women who are key decision-makers feel supported and respected in their roles, indicating a shift towards greater acceptance of women in business leadership. While women business owners are becoming more financially independent, balancing their professional and personal lives remains a challenge. Many entrepreneurs acknowledge the crucial role of family support in enabling them to manage both aspects effectively. The findings of this survey reflect a growing ecosystem where women entrepreneurs are taking charge of their financial future while navigating challenges. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
07 March,2025 11:00 AM IST | New Delhi | ANIIt's a playlist fit for a king - literally. A new programme of music features tracks by artists including Bob Marley, Grace Jones, Kylie Minogue and Raye, all chosen by King Charles III. 'The King's Music Room' on Apple Music Radio features Charles talking about songs from around the 56-nation Commonwealth that have formed the soundtrack of his life, from 1930s standards to disco, reggae and Afrobeats. Recorded in the king's office at Buckingham Palace, it's being released as an interesting and innovative way to celebrate Commonwealth Day, Charles said. He said the collection includes songs which have brought me joy. Apple did not reveal the full playlist ahead of the show's release on Monday. In the past, Charles has cited songs by Three Degrees, Barbra Streisand, Edith Piaf, Leonard Cohen and Miriam Makeba as among his favorites. A trailer released Friday features the 76-year-old king introducing the project from behind a desk inside Buckingham Palace, intercut with a band of military guardsmen in the palace courtyard playing Marley's reggae classic 'Could You Be Loved'. The Commonwealth is made up of countries on five continents, most of them former British colonies, ranging from populous India and vast Canada to tiny Tuvalu. Charles is the bloc's ceremonial head, following in the footsteps of his late mother Queen Elizabeth II, who visited almost every member nation, some multiple times, during her 70-year reign. But the king is not head of state in most Commonwealth nations, who generally have mixed feelings about the former colonial power. Composer Errollyn Wallen, who holds the title Master of the King's Music, said ¿the Commonwealth has produced more than its fair share of wonderful songs, singers, and musicians, and this fun and eclectic collection is a great reminder of this treasure trove of creativity. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
07 March,2025 10:39 AM IST | London | APAs the 97th Academy Awards, more popularly known as Oscars 2025, got underway, many Indians are thinking about how Payal Kapadia’s 2024 film ‘All We Imagine as Light’ never made saw the light of the prestigious film awards. It could have been a serious contender, after grabbing eyeballs when it won the Cannes Grand Prix last year, but wasn’t chosen as India’s official entry in the Best International Feature Film category, as it lost out to ‘Laapataa Ladies’, which also failed to make the final nominations. Interestingly, the Oscar 2025 committee thought Payal’s film wasn’t ‘Indian enough’. Interestingly, those who watched can easily identify how the film is more “Indian” than ever, and more than that “Mumbai”. Set in Mumbai, the film not only opens with the Dadar Market but follows through with the trains, known as the lifeline of the city, and by now famous around the world. Love for Mumbai local trainsWith so many different themes in the film, what prompted the director to showcase the trains? Interestingly, the Mumbai-based filmmaker had a unique love for the Mumbai local trains. She shares, “I was always shooting in the trains. My biggest pre-occupation is always taking photos in the trains. That’s why I became obsessed with wanting to shoot in the train because of all those years of documenting and taking pictures. Just seeing how the light is different, women negotiating the general compartment, how children are there in different ages with their mothers. It was always there and it was because of that that I made it the central of the film.” In a city and country that is forever crowded as it cradles a two billion population, Payal adds, “Just to see how we occupy public space and the body language that comes with it. You know how in Mumbai, the famous thing is the half butt, which occupies the fourth seat. How everybody is fitting into that half butt seat -- all these things interest me to see how people navigate life. I observed this throughout and that’s why I put it in the film.” However, the filmmaker says they did a lot of documentary-style shooting for the film but couldn’t shoot in the trains because it has its own set of challenges. She adds, “So, for that (train) scene, we had junior artists, so they are not real people. We took the 4 am train up and down, and it was the last time of our shooting shift, and everybody was tired. So, we didn’t tell them to act, and just let them be and shot that. We said let’s keep it as a loose as possible.” However, they made the most of it and that can be seen in how every person in the train embodies the spirit of the city in more ways than one. Showcasing migrants and real estateWhile the film, which was a favourite to be an Oscar 2025 nominee, has many elements of Mumbai, it also showcases many people that make up the city and the city housing so many migrants, is a story that has been told but Payal chooses to tell the story from the lens of Malayalam-speaking nurses. Their inclusion though, Payal says was quite purposeful. She explains, “When I started writing the story, the first material I got was after I spoke to Malayali nurses, and they told me about placenta, birth control, which I got through chats with them. So, when I was making the film, I thought I should keep them. It also added to the themes in the film that I wanted to talk about. It was about women who are not from the city and have come from different parts to work here because nursing is a profession that women do leave their states to work elsewhere so I felt they had to be from outside.” Interestingly, their role was beyond the representation but also stemmed from their use of the Malayalam language. She adds, “Malayalam then became an interesting language to use because it plays an important role in the relationships. For Dr Manoj, who can’t speak Hindi, it is a problem of so many people. Then for Anu and Shiaz who want to talk intimately in the bus, language plays a big role in privacy.” An Indian language isn’t the only medium of expression that Payal uses to showcase their romance, as she took it a step further by introducing a very unique piece of music. “It is by an Ethiopian nun Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou. She has an amazing body of work and died in 2023 leaving behind this amazing music. When I heard it, something about it really made me feel alive. It felt like in the beginning of romance when everything is interesting, this music gave me that feeling. So, I used this music at the lead motif for Anu and Shiaz relationship, so whenever they are there, it is there.” Even as she has won the 2024 Cannes Grand Prix, and the Oscars nominations are a disappointment, Payal believes she is a part of many Indian filmmakers whose films are going to festivals. She expresses, “I am a part of many filmmakers whose films are going to festivals, and Cannes isn’t the only one, you have Locarno International Film Festival, you have Venice Film Festival. We have a great record at those festivals too. Rotterdam Film Festival even has a whole section on India films. Rima Das is a pioneer. I think I am part of a large movement of filmmakers pushing the boundaries of cinema and trying to come up with their own voice.” Spot these 3 Mumbai locations in the film Jamboree ParkThere are many locations that were used in the film including the Goregaon Skywalk, which never made it to the final cut. However, Payal says Mumbaikars can look for Jamboree Park, which features on more than one occasion. It is an aspect that Payal talks about that is synonymous with the city, as she dwells on how sitting on swings in parks is also a very Mumbai ‘thing’, and when the characters in the films can’t find place, that’s where they sit. Parel (Skyline of Mumbai)The scene when the nurses are taking the clothes out when it starts raining has been shot in Parel and that can be spotted because of the Mumbai skyline, which Payal reveals see shot from a vantage point that brings out the whole of the city. On one side you see the glass buildings and on the other side you can see the chawls but one artist has gone and painted hands on it. It is a really interesting graffiti of hands of people who work in the flower market. I feel the artist has done an interesting juxtaposition of the buildings being there and the artist’s response to this. The graffiti in the area is nice to see. Dadar wholesale marketThe film starts with the Dadar wholesale market that goes away by 7 am after it starts by 4 am. There also you can see when they are offloading the trucks, in the background, you can see the big buildings, and that clears out in the day.
07 March,2025 09:56 AM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoA whopping 90 per cent of rural women entrepreneurs in India save a portion of their monthly income, according to a new report on Thursday, ahead of International Women's Day. The report by DBS Bank India, in collaboration with Haqdarshak, is based on a survey of 411 women entrepreneurs across rural districts in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, with 402 being members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Of the 90 per cent, 57 per cent save less than 20 per cent of their monthly income, while 33 per cent save between 20 per cent and 50 per cent, said the report. About 5 per cent save more than 50 per cent of their income, while the remaining respondents are unsure about the portion of their income saved, suggesting a need for improved financial literacy and planning. The report noted that 56 per cent of rural women entrepreneurs opt for bank deposits, 39 per cent participate in SHG savings programmes, and 18 per cent set aside cash without investing it in any instruments. Fixed Deposits (FDs) and Recurring Deposits (RDs), as well as investments in gold, were found to be less common, with only 11 per cent and 5 per cent opting for these methods, respectively. Approximately 64 per cent reinvested their business profits into their enterprises, reflecting a strong orientation towards business expansion and growth. "Our report offers valuable insights to inform programmes aimed at accelerating women's entrepreneurship and addressing growth barriers," said Azmat Habibulla, Managing Director and Head of Group Strategic Marketing and Communications at DBS Bank India. “We aim to drive meaningful dialogue and build actionable solutions that bridge knowledge gaps, ensuring these women have improved access to social protection and financial services, ultimately fostering a more equitable economy," added Aniket Doegar, Co-Founder and CEO of Haqdarshak. Noting a shift towards greater financial autonomy, the report stated that 18 per cent of rural women entrepreneurs make financial decisions independently, while 47 per cent make financial decisions jointly with their husbands. About 24 per cent stated that their husbands make all financial decisions, and the remaining 11 per cent consult their immediate or extended family members. This distribution highlights both progress and persistent traditional norms. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
06 March,2025 06:28 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSMumbai-based Tanushree Nekkanti comes from a background in designing film sets, but along the way, she found her love for music. "I’ve not been in the scene too long, maybe less than two years but in that short period, I’ve seen many newcomers, especially younger women who remind me of my early days. I would always go to shows, look at all the equipment and get overwhelmed, and almost overstimulated until I learned how to mix and realised that most of my blockage was mental not physical. My close friends from Bengaluru really inspired me to do this professionally. I started out wanting to play for them at after parties but together, they give me the confidence to be who I am as an artist," she shares. DJ Tanushree believes that talent should be the focus, regardless of gender, and hints at her experience in overcoming industry norms. "I think talent speaks for itself. I personally have never faced discrimination based on my gender, but I can’t comment for the rest of the industry. In fact, I find myself mostly on all-male line ups. So, I’m glad that the promoters I work with, programme me well into events that suit my sound. It’s always fun meeting more female artists because I find that they’re more open to quirky collaborations in terms of production and even just general content.""I typically play at places such as Antisocial, Bonobo, Khar Social and Nesco Social, Veranda and Kitty Su. Then there are festival venues and some fun podcasts that we get to play at," she mentions. On pay parity, she firmly believes compensation is based on experience and talent in her industry. "I think the pay scale doesn’t differ based on gender but rather years in the industry, skill and popularity. DJ Tanushree emphasizes on the idea of continuous learning and improvement. "I am constantly learning and only practice will make you physically better at DJ’ing." DJ Tanushree had no plans of being a DJ. "I studied architecture to design sets for movies, but I was very young, and my family wasn’t comfortable with me working late hours in the film industry which is kind of funny now as I work in another industry that has late hours. Although I loved architecture as a major and wouldn’t change my college experience, I feel that my musical journey has given me back everything I’ve put into it. It’s something that comes to me naturally. Luckily (or some would say unluckily), clubs in India shut quite early, so our gig slot times are not very late at night, at least not compared to the slots in other countries," she quips. Encouraging aspiring female DJs to push through barriers, she advises, "I think it’s best to remember that you’re not in any race with anyone or the industry. Everyone gains success in their own due time so it’s best not to burn yourselves out before you can reach that. Comparison is the biggest killer of confidence so just lock yourselves in, learn as much as you can from the people around you. Make music. Don’t try to make music like that of artists you like. Just dive into it and see where your mind takes you because the constant studying of precedents and favourites might influence your raw creativity."
06 March,2025 06:06 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoThe UK's iconic Glastonbury Festival unveiled its line-up Thursday, with new artists Charli XCX and Olivia Rodrigo set to perform alongside veteran stars Neil Young and Rod Stewart. Other big names on the bill include Raye, The Prodigy, Alanis Morissette and Snow Patrol, organisers said. Stewart is due to perform the Sunday legend slot while Rodrigo will close out the festival which runs from June 25 to 29. Neil Young will headline for the second time despite pulling out in January saying the festival had become "a corporate turn-off, and not for me like it used to be". Young quickly had a change a heart and said he would be playing after all, blaming his decision on "an error in the information I received." Charli XCX, who picked up three Grammys last month, also scooped five gongs at The Brit Awards, the annual celebration of UK music on Saturday. "Brat", the 32-year-old artist's sixth album, a celebration of a relaxed, partying lifestyle, transformed her into one of music's top stars in 2024. Tickets for this year's Glastonbury Festival at Worthy Farm in southwest England sold out within 35 minutes when they went on sale in November, with standard tickets priced at £373.50 ($471.50). Glastonbury attracted more than 210,000 fans in 2024, hosting 3,000 performances across some 80 stages. Many of the gigs were broadcast by the BBC, which has partnered with the festival since 1997. Glasto, as the festival is popularly known, was inspired by Britain's 1960s counterculture and hippie movements, with its first iteration as the Pilton Festival in 1970. Glam rockers T. Rex were the first headliners. Since then, it has attracted cult status and big names, from David Bowie and Paul McCartney to Stormzy and Elton John, who played his final UK gig there in 2023. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
06 March,2025 04:18 PM IST | London | AFPADVERTISEMENT
