Automobiles

TVS Apache Racing Experience Makes International Debut in Nepal


Kathmandu, 19 January 2026: TVS Motor Company, a global leader in two- and three-wheeler manufacturing, announced the launch of the TVS Apache Racing Experience International (ARE GP) in Nepal. Held at the Vehicle Academy and Research Center, Satungal, the event marked a major milestone as TVS celebrates 20 years of the Apache series.

The Apache Racing Experience is a purpose-built platform where TVS Apache owners can unleash the true racing capabilities of their motorcycles in a safe, fun, and professionally curated environment. Participants learn race craft and advanced riding techniques from TVS Racing champions.

The first selection round saw over 55 participants and 300 visitors, competing wheel-to-wheel on a professionally engineered circuit with 10 technically demanding corners. Championships were contested across three classes—TVS Apache 160cc, 200cc, and 310cc—allowing riders from all segments to push the limits of both man and machine.

The top three finishers in each category will get the opportunity to race at the Madras International Circuit (MIC), India, in April 2026, competing with champions from four countries. Winners will also receive:

  • An all-expenses-paid MotoGP experience
  • Entry to the TVS India One Make Championship (OMC)
  • Official Petronas TVS Racing team apparel
  • Exclusive visits to the TVS factory
  • Complimentary access to TVS marquee rides and TVS MotoSoul events

The day-long festival included Apache Pro Performance shows, gymkhana sessions, and music performances, creating a complete motorsport festival experience for riders and enthusiasts.

Vimal Sumbly, Head – Premium Business, TVS Motor Company, said:
“As we celebrate 20 years of TVS Apache, the international expansion of ARE GP is a natural extension of our journey to push boundaries and set new benchmarks in motorsport. Nepal’s growing performance riding community makes it an ideal destination.”

Shahil Agrawal, Executive Director – Jagdamba Motors, added:
“The launch of TVS ARE GP in Nepal channels aspiration professionally, nurtures local talent, energizes dealerships, and brings riders and communities together. We are proud to create opportunities for Nepalese riders to compete internationally.”

With over 6.5 million Apache motorcycles delivered globally, TVS Racing has shaped India’s motorsports landscape since 1982. Through its “Track to Road” strategy, TVS Racing has helped the Apache series become synonymous with performance, innovation, and race-inspired technology.

Business

Nestlé Launches Formula 1–Themed KitKat Chocolate Car


Nestlé has officially launched the KitKat Formula 1 Chocolate Car, a collectible, novelty-style confection designed to celebrate the brand’s multi-year partnership with Formula 1. The launch marks the first major product release directly tied to the deal, which was announced in late 2024, making KitKat the Official Chocolate Bar of Formula 1 starting 2025.

The chocolate car is molded in the shape of an F1 car and crafted with milk chocolate, KitKat wafers, and crispy cereal elements. The product is designed to merge the excitement of motorsport with the fun and collectibility of KitKat, appealing to fans of all ages.

The KitKat F1 Chocolate Car began rolling out in early 2026 in select markets, including the UK, Ireland, and Australia, where it has been linked to fan promotions and Formula 1 race-week activations. Available in both single bars and multipacks, the launch reflects Formula 1’s strategy of expanding into lifestyle and consumer packaged goods partnerships, engaging younger and global audiences.

Nestlé plans to extend the release to additional markets throughout the 2025–2026 seasons, underlining the global reach of the KitKat–F1 collaboration. This launch exemplifies the growing intersection of sports branding and confectionery innovation, bringing Formula 1 closer to fans beyond the racetrack.

EduConnect

UGC Organises Fusion Fest 2026 Celebrating Republic Day Spirit


In a vibrant display of patriotism, creativity, and teamwork, the University Grants Commission (UGC) hosted Fusion Fest 2026 from 12th to 16th January 2026, as part of India’s Republic Day celebrations. The week-long festival brought together UGC officials and staff to participate in a series of competitions and activities that celebrated national pride and cultural unity.

Highlights of the festival included:

  • Patriotic Songs Singing Competition – A soulful showcase of love for the nation through music.
  • Rangoli Competition on the theme “Desh Ke Parv” – Stunning rangoli designs depicting the spirit of Indian festivals and patriotism.
  • Essay Competition – Thought-provoking reflections on India’s heritage, values, and Republic Day significance.
  • Painting & Craft Competition – Creative artworks highlighting the country’s rich culture and traditions.
  • Sports Activities – Friendly sporting events fostering camaraderie, teamwork, and fitness among participants.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from officials and staff, reflecting UGC’s commitment to encouraging holistic engagement, creativity, and the spirit of unity. Fusion Fest 2026 not only offered a platform for showcasing talent but also reinforced pride in the nation and collective celebration of its democratic values.

Automobiles

Škoda Auto Unveils the New Kushaq in India: Easy to Love, Made for Indian Roads


Škoda Auto India has officially unveiled the new Kushaq, taking forward the brand’s mission of democratising European technology for Indian roads. Launched under the India 2.0 strategy, the updated Kushaq brings advanced features, segment-first technologies, and a host of safety, comfort, and convenience upgrades.

Easy to Flaunt: Modern Solid Design with Monte Carlo Badge

The Kushaq adopts Škoda’s Modern Solid design philosophy, featuring an all-new front grille with chrome ribs and an illuminated light band, connected LED taillights with sequential turn indicators, and the illuminated Škoda lettering at the rear. For the first time, the Monte Carlo badge is available from launch. The SUV is offered in three new colours—Shimla Green, Steel Grey, Cherry Red—alongside existing options. Alloy wheels, LED headlamps, LED fog lamps, and dynamic body lines add to the sporty, yet robust road presence.

Easy to Drive: Range of Real Automatics

The Kushaq is offered with real automatic transmissions across variants:

  • 1.0 TSI engine (85kW, 178Nm) with an all-new 8-speed torque converter automatic or 6-speed manual.
  • 1.5 TSI engine (110kW, 250Nm) paired with the proven 7-speed DSG, featuring disc brakes on all wheels.

With 188 mm ground clearance, the SUV is designed for both city drives and rougher roads, ensuring comfort and performance in all conditions.

Easy on the Experience

The interiors boast a Panoramic Sunroof, dual-colour ambient lighting, six-way ventilated electric front seats, and a premium Škoda sound system. Boot space stretches from 491 litres up to 1,405 litres. Standard comfort features include Climatronic Auto AC, electric sunroof, auto-dimming IRVM, rain-sensing wipers, rear wiper, and over 25 safety features. Higher variants get 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit and AI-powered infotainment with 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, and Google Automotive AI Agent, recognising Indian accents for intuitive voice interaction.

Easy to Trust: Safety First

The Kushaq retains its 5-star Global NCAP rating with six airbags as standard and over 25 active and passive safety features, extending up to 40 on top variants. All-weather visibility and disaster-preparedness features make it one of the safest SUVs in its class.

Easy to Own: Škoda Super Care Package

Škoda introduces the Super Care package:

  • 4-year / 100,000 km warranty
  • 4 years Roadside Assistance
  • 4 labour-free services
  • Warranty extendable to 6 years, 6-year corrosion warranty, 3-year paint warranty

Pre-bookings are now open at ₹15,000 via Škoda Auto India’s official website, with deliveries expected by end-March 2026.

Human Interest

Jaipur Man Creates ₹25 Lakh Wedding Invitation Crafted from 3 Kg of Pure Silver


Indian weddings are known for their grandeur, but a Jaipur man has taken luxury wedding invitations to an entirely new level. Shiv Johri, a resident of Jaipur, has created an elaborate wedding invitation worth nearly ₹25 lakh, crafted using 3 kilograms of pure silver for his daughter’s wedding.

What makes the invitation truly remarkable is its craftsmanship. The card is made from 128 individual silver pieces, meticulously assembled without the use of a single nail or screw. The intricate design reflects traditional artistry combined with engineering precision, turning the wedding invite into a collectible heirloom rather than just a card.

According to reports, the invitation showcases detailed motifs and layered elements, highlighting Rajasthan’s rich heritage of metalwork and design. The silver structure has been handcrafted with such finesse that it seamlessly fits together, demonstrating exceptional skill and patience.

The luxurious invitation has caught widespread attention on social media, sparking conversations around evolving wedding trends in India, where families increasingly seek personalised and statement-making elements to celebrate milestone occasions.

With this creation, Shiv Johri has not only invited guests to his daughter’s wedding but also presented a shining example of creativity, tradition, and craftsmanship at its finest.