Asian Paints WoodTech And Muse Lab Showcase Sustainable Innovation In Modern Wood Design
K Raheja To Transform Iconic Mumbai Famous Studios Through Rs 650 Crore Redevelopment
Realty major K Raheja Corp is moving ahead with plans to redevelop the iconic Famous Studios in South Mumbai through a joint development agreement estimated at ₹650 crore, signalling both the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for the city’s built environment.
The 1.5-acre plot, located on Dr E Moses Road with a commanding view of Mahalaxmi Racecourse, has long been a landmark in the country’s entertainment industry. Established in the mid-20th century, Famous Studios hosted generations of film-makers, advertisers, and production houses. It became a cultural node, housing sound stages, post-production facilities and even event spaces. Yet, with central Mumbai’s land values soaring and the demand for large film studios declining, redevelopment has increasingly appeared inevitable. Officials associated with the deal confirmed that the project will be structured as a joint development pact, ensuring that the owners receive a share of the redeveloped space. According to urban development experts, the site carries a development potential of around 400,000 sq. ft under existing planning regulations, though the final scale will depend on municipal approvals.
This is not the first attempt to repurpose the property. More than a decade ago, another developer had entered into an agreement with the owners, but that transaction collapsed amid challenges over leasehold conversion and relocation of tenants. The new agreement, however, comes at a time when Mumbai’s real estate sector is witnessing renewed momentum, particularly in mixed-use luxury projects and commercial developments. Experts tracking the transaction point out that the deal reflects a broader trend sweeping across Indian metros, where developers are aggressively acquiring prime land parcels through joint ventures and redevelopment pacts. Limited availability of land in central business districts has turned such legacy properties into valuable opportunities. With demand rising in both the residential and commercial segments, particularly in South Mumbai, this project is expected to draw significant interest once construction begins.
For Mumbai, the redevelopment raises larger questions about the balance between preserving cultural landmarks and unlocking land value for future growth. While Famous Studios has been an institution for India’s creative economy, its conversion into premium real estate underscores the city’s shifting priorities as land scarcity, population growth and investment demand reshape the urban fabric. Industry observers note that K Raheja Corp, with its track record of delivering high-value office and residential projects, is well-positioned to transform the site into a development aligned with Mumbai’s evolving skyline. Whether the new project will incorporate cultural or creative spaces remains to be seen, but its strategic location and scale suggest it could emerge as a signature address in South Mumbai.
As the city continues to reconcile its heritage with modern growth, the redevelopment of Famous Studios stands as a powerful example of how Mumbai’s landscape is constantly being reimagined.
K Raheja To Transform Iconic Mumbai Famous Studios Through Rs 650 Crore Redevelopment
Hafele Launches Innovative Design Studio In Ahmedabad Strengthening Brand Footprint And Presence
Hafele, the global interior solutions major, has deepened its footprint in Gujarat with the launch of an innovative Design Studio in Ahmedabad. The newly opened facility aims to provide homeowners, architects and designers with immersive experiences, combining premium German engineering with solutions tailored for India’s evolving urban lifestyle.
Spanning 2,350 sq. ft., the Ahmedabad studio has been developed in collaboration with a local franchise partner, reinforcing Hafele’s model of pairing international expertise with regional understanding. Conveniently located near Science City Circle, the space consolidates Hafele’s diverse portfolio – from furniture and architectural fittings to modular kitchens, wardrobes, sliding solutions, smart locks, lighting systems and water solutions – under one roof. Officials explained that the new studio is not positioned as a conventional showroom but as a design destination where users can interact with real-life installations. Compact living modules, multifunctional kitchens and automation-ready displays are showcased to help visitors visualise modern, sustainable and space-efficient home environments. The focus, they added, is on maximising functionality without compromising aesthetics, a principle gaining traction in India’s rapidly densifying urban centres.
Industry experts highlighted that Ahmedabad is among India’s fastest-growing real estate markets, with high demand for contemporary interior solutions in both premium and mid-market segments. By strengthening its presence in the city, Hafele is expected to play a larger role in shaping the local home improvement ecosystem, while providing design professionals access to global innovations. The design studio also reflects the company’s commitment to sustainability and future-ready living. Smart digital locks, energy-efficient lighting and modular systems have been integrated into the displays to demonstrate how modern homes can achieve convenience alongside lower environmental impact. Officials noted that Hafele’s approach aligns with the larger goal of creating eco-friendly and equitable urban spaces.
By collaborating with local partners, Hafele is also ensuring that its global offerings are contextualised for Indian households. The partnership model allows for combining German technology with insights into local consumer preferences, bridging the gap between international design standards and regional lifestyle needs. With this opening, Hafele continues to expand its network of experiential studios across India, reaffirming its strategy to bring world-class solutions closer to consumers. For Ahmedabad’s growing community of homeowners and architects, the new design studio is set to emerge as both an inspiration hub and a practical resource for interior innovations.
Hafele Launches Innovative Design Studio In Ahmedabad Strengthening Brand Footprint And Presence
Nuvoco Vistas To Invest Rs 200 Crore Expanding Capacity By Four MMTPA
Nuvoco Vistas Corporation, one of India’s leading building materials companies, has announced a fresh investment plan worth ₹200 crore aimed at expanding its cement production capacity. The expansion will add nearly four million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) to the company’s existing output, reinforcing its position in the highly competitive cement and construction materials sector.
The decision comes at a time when demand for cement and allied construction products is showing strong growth, driven by government infrastructure projects, rapid urbanisation, and private real estate developments. According to industry experts, India’s cement demand is expected to grow steadily over the next five years, fuelled by the government’s focus on affordable housing, highway construction, and smart city initiatives. Officials from the company stated that the proposed capacity expansion will primarily be implemented across its eastern and central India facilities, regions where Nuvoco has maintained a strong operational presence. The ₹200 crore allocation will be directed towards modernisation of production lines, adoption of energy-efficient technology, and capacity augmentation in existing units. The expansion is expected to not only strengthen the supply chain network but also ensure timely availability of cement to fast-growing markets.
Nuvoco Vistas has been steadily growing its footprint in India’s building materials industry. The company, part of the Nirma Group, operates cement plants, ready-mix concrete units, and aggregates facilities, serving both urban and semi-urban markets. With this investment, it aims to consolidate its ranking among the top cement producers in India. Industry analysts see this move as a strategic step to capture future demand. India’s cement sector has witnessed heightened activity, with several players announcing capacity additions over the past two years. The growing competition has made it imperative for mid- and large-scale manufacturers to expand capacities in advance, ensuring they do not lose market share once demand peaks.
The planned investment also aligns with Nuvoco’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. The company has indicated that part of the funding will go into upgrading equipment for lower emissions and greater energy efficiency. By integrating new-age technologies in cement production, Nuvoco aims to meet not only the rising demand but also the industry’s shifting focus towards greener operations. Experts suggest that the ₹200 crore expansion will generate significant employment opportunities, both directly at plant locations and indirectly through logistics, distribution, and construction activities. This is likely to benefit local economies in the regions where the projects are executed.
With the announcement, Nuvoco Vistas has positioned itself strongly in anticipation of India’s ongoing infrastructure boom. The additional four MMTPA capacity is expected to come onstream over the next two to three years, providing the company with a crucial edge in meeting the surging cement requirements of highways, metro projects, housing, and industrial corridors. The latest investment reiterates the cement maker’s long-term growth strategy while underlining confidence in India’s infrastructure-led economic trajectory.
Nuvoco Vistas To Invest Rs 200 Crore Expanding Capacity By Four MMTPA
JSW Paints Appoints Rohit Talwar As Chief Marketing Officer After Castrol India Exit
JSW Paints, one of India’s fastest-growing paints companies, has announced the appointment of Rohit Talwar as its new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). The leadership addition comes at a strategic time as the company strengthens its brand presence and expands operations in the highly competitive decorative paints segment.
Rohit Talwar brings with him more than two decades of experience in brand building, marketing strategy, and business leadership. Prior to joining JSW Paints, he held key leadership roles at Castrol India, where he played an instrumental role in shaping brand positioning, customer outreach, and digital engagement. His exit from Castrol India marked the end of a significant tenure that saw the company enhance its brand recall in the lubricants sector through innovative marketing campaigns and consumer-centric strategies. At JSW Paints, Talwar will spearhead marketing initiatives, with a strong focus on driving consumer engagement, scaling brand visibility, and introducing disruptive marketing campaigns that resonate with the evolving aspirations of Indian households. His role will also cover strengthening distribution networks and working closely with innovation teams to align product offerings with consumer needs.
Company officials said that JSW Paints, backed by the diversified JSW Group, has been steadily expanding its footprint in India’s decorative paints industry, which is dominated by established players. With its “Think Beautiful” philosophy and differentiated market strategies, the brand aims to challenge industry norms by offering transparent pricing and eco-friendly products. The appointment of Rohit Talwar as CMO is expected to accelerate these efforts. Industry experts believe the move signals JSW Paints’ intent to deepen its consumer connect at a time when the Indian paints industry is witnessing rapid growth. Rising disposable incomes, urbanisation, and demand for premium products are pushing companies to invest in strong marketing leadership. Talwar’s expertise in handling large consumer brands positions him as a strong asset for JSW Paints in capturing a larger share of this growing market.
In a statement, JSW Paints executives expressed confidence that Rohit Talwar’s vision and leadership will strengthen the company’s journey toward becoming a household name in the decorative paints category. They highlighted that his ability to combine traditional brand-building with new-age digital strategies will be crucial in engaging with younger consumer segments. Rohit Talwar’s appointment underscores a larger trend in India Inc., where companies across sectors are increasingly seeking seasoned professionals with cross-industry experience to drive marketing and growth. His transition from Castrol India, a market leader in lubricants, to JSW Paints, a challenger in the paints sector, reflects the growing convergence between industries in leveraging consumer insights and digital-first marketing approaches.
With this leadership move, JSW Paints has positioned itself strongly for its next phase of growth, eyeing both urban and semi-urban markets while staying committed to innovation and sustainability in its offerings.
JSW Paints Appoints Rohit Talwar As Chief Marketing Officer After Castrol India Exit
Apple Leases 64,125 Sq Ft Hyderabad Office For Rs 80.15 Lakh Monthly
Global technology giant Apple has taken a significant step to strengthen its presence in India by leasing a large office space in Hyderabad. The company has finalised a deal to occupy 64,125 square feet of prime office area, with a monthly rental outlay of ₹80.15 lakh.
According to property documents, the lease agreement has been signed for a long-term period, underlining Apple’s commitment to expand operations in the country. The office space, located in Hyderabad’s prominent IT corridor, is part of a Grade-A commercial building that already houses several multinational technology firms. Industry experts note that the high-value lease reflects Apple’s growing focus on the Indian market, both as a consumer base and as a hub for backend operations. The office deal translates to a per square foot rent of over ₹125, which is considered premium for the Hyderabad market. This highlights the demand for world-class office infrastructure among global companies looking to operate in India’s key IT hubs. The new facility is expected to accommodate teams involved in software development, cloud services, and data management, though Apple has not officially disclosed the specific functions that will be carried out from the premises.
Hyderabad has steadily emerged as one of India’s top destinations for global technology players. Over the past decade, the city has attracted companies such as Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and Meta, in addition to a growing number of semiconductor and hardware manufacturers. The availability of skilled talent, competitive rentals compared to Bengaluru and Mumbai, and strong government support for IT and electronics have made Hyderabad an attractive investment destination. Real estate analysts point out that Apple’s move comes at a time when commercial leasing activity in Hyderabad has been on the rise, driven by global firms diversifying their operations. Despite global economic headwinds, the Indian office market has remained resilient, with steady absorption of Grade-A spaces across key metros. Apple’s leasing of a large office in Hyderabad is being seen as a vote of confidence in India’s potential as both a technology hub and a market for its expanding ecosystem of products and services.
Apple has been gradually deepening its footprint in India over the past few years. The company opened its first flagship stores in Mumbai and Delhi in 2023 and has been scaling up manufacturing in partnership with Foxconn, Wistron, and Pegatron to expand local production of iPhones. Its Hyderabad office is expected to complement these initiatives, particularly in areas of engineering support, data services, and backend development. With this deal, Apple joins the list of major global technology companies that are betting big on Hyderabad’s real estate market. The move also signals that India will continue to play a strategic role in Apple’s global growth plans, as the company looks to diversify its operations beyond traditional markets.
Apple Leases 64,125 Sq Ft Hyderabad Office For Rs 80.15 Lakh Monthly
Mumbai Property Market Records 3 Percent Dip In Registrations, Stamp Duty Down 6 Percent
Mumbai’s property market saw a modest slowdown in August, with registrations slipping by 3 per cent year on year to 11,230 units and stamp duty revenues dipping 6 per cent to Rs 1,000 crore, according to data released by industry experts. The figures highlight a softer month for India’s financial capital, although overall housing demand continues to reflect resilience.
On a sequential basis, both property registrations and stamp duty collections fell 11 per cent, underscoring the effect of affordability pressures and monsoon seasonality. Yet, the broader picture remains stable. From January to August 2025, Mumbai recorded nearly 99,869 registrations, a 3 per cent rise compared to last year, while revenue contributions to the state exchequer surged by 11 per cent to over Rs 8,854 crore, supported by sustained buyer confidence. Residential demand dominated the market in August, accounting for 80 per cent of all registrations. Homes priced below Rs 1 crore grew their market share to 48 per cent, signalling the preference for affordability-driven segments. Conversely, the Rs 1–5 crore mid-market shrank from 19 per cent last year to 16 per cent this August, reflecting the strain on household budgets amid higher borrowing costs.
Interestingly, luxury housing displayed resilience. Properties valued above Rs 5 crore made up 6 per cent of registrations in August, compared to 5 per cent during the same period last year. Market watchers suggest this reflects the continued appetite for premium real estate among high-net-worth buyers, even as middle-income groups feel the pinch of affordability. Property size preferences remained consistent, with units up to 1,000 square feet contributing 85 per cent of all registrations. The 500–1,000 sq ft range remained the most sought after, striking a balance between affordability and usable living space for nuclear families and first-time buyers.
Geographically, the Western and Central Suburbs continued to dominate demand, accounting for 86 per cent of registrations. The Western Suburbs led with a 54 per cent share, followed by the Central Suburbs at 32 per cent. South Mumbai remained steady at 7 per cent, while Central Mumbai’s share slipped to 7 per cent from 11 per cent last year, indicating shifting preferences towards more affordable suburban corridors. Industry experts note that Mumbai’s property market has remained remarkably consistent through 2025, with monthly registrations largely crossing the 11,000-mark and revenues surpassing Rs 1,000 crore. While August reflected a temporary dip, the market is expected to regain momentum in the coming months, particularly as developers line up festive season launches and buyers return with renewed interest.
For policymakers, the steady revenue from property registrations continues to provide critical support for state finances. For households, however, affordability remains the key challenge, making compact housing and suburban living the defining features of Mumbai’s real estate landscape.
Mumbai Property Market Records 3 Percent Dip In Registrations, Stamp Duty Down 6 Percent
Puravankara Bags Mumbai Housing Redevelopment Project, Targets Rs 2,700 Crore Revenue
Real estate developer Puravankara has secured a significant contract to redevelop a large housing society in Mumbai, marking another milestone in its growth strategy. The project, located in a prime residential neighbourhood of the city, is expected to generate a revenue potential of nearly Rs 2,700 crore once completed.
According to company officials, this redevelopment project will not only contribute substantially to Puravankara’s portfolio but also strengthen its presence in Mumbai’s competitive real estate market. With demand for modern housing in India’s financial capital continuing to surge, the company is betting on the redevelopment model to unlock value both for the existing residents and future homebuyers. The project involves transforming an ageing residential society into a modern, premium housing complex with enhanced lifestyle amenities. Officials stated that the redevelopment will include larger apartments, improved infrastructure, sustainable building practices, and community-focused spaces that cater to the evolving needs of urban residents. This aligns with the company’s long-term strategy of investing in high-value projects across metro cities.
Industry analysts note that the Rs 2,700 crore revenue target reflects both the scale of the project and the rising value of residential property in Mumbai. Redevelopment has emerged as a crucial growth driver in the city, where land scarcity leaves limited room for new greenfield projects. By partnering with housing societies, developers like Puravankara gain access to prime land parcels while offering residents upgraded living spaces at no additional cost. The Mumbai redevelopment market has seen a wave of activity in recent years, with both established and new developers competing to secure projects. Rising property values, coupled with regulatory clarity under the Maharashtra government’s redevelopment policies, have encouraged more societies to opt for redevelopment agreements. For Puravankara, this contract represents a strong foothold in a city where demand for premium housing continues to outpace supply.
Executives from the company highlighted that the redevelopment will be executed with a focus on sustainability, incorporating energy-efficient designs, green construction practices, and smart infrastructure solutions. Such measures, they added, are increasingly becoming key differentiators in attracting environmentally conscious buyers and investors. The project is expected to be completed in phases, with timelines aligned to regulatory approvals and construction schedules. Once launched, Puravankara anticipates strong demand from both end-users and investors, given the location’s connectivity and lifestyle offerings.
With this development, Puravankara joins the ranks of leading developers who are driving the transformation of Mumbai’s housing landscape through redevelopment projects. The move is seen as a strategic bet on the long-term growth of India’s most lucrative real estate market.
Puravankara Bags Mumbai Housing Redevelopment Project, Targets Rs 2,700 Crore Revenue
Bollywood Actress Hema Malini Sells Two Mumbai Apartments For Rs 12.50 Crore
Bollywood actress and politician Hema Malini, popularly known as the “Dream Girl” of Indian cinema, has recently concluded a significant property transaction in Mumbai. According to registration documents, the actress sold two adjoining apartments in the upscale Oshiwara area of Andheri (West) for a combined value of Rs 12.50 crore.
The apartments, which are located in a premium residential complex, cover a total area of approximately 2,550 sq ft. Each unit comes with its own parking space and is said to offer modern amenities along with good connectivity to major commercial and entertainment hubs of the city. The deal was officially registered in August 2025, with the buyer paying a stamp duty of Rs 75 lakh, as per government records. Hema Malini, who has had a prolific career spanning over five decades in the film industry, has not only made a mark as a successful actress but also as a dancer, producer, and politician. Best remembered for her roles in films like Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta, Dream Girl, and Baghban, she continues to remain a respected figure in both the entertainment industry and public life. Currently, she also serves as a Member of Parliament from Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
This real estate transaction has once again drawn attention to the strong investment appetite for luxury residential properties in Mumbai. Despite high property prices, demand remains steady, especially in prime neighbourhoods such as Andheri, Juhu, Bandra, and Worli. Market experts suggest that transactions involving celebrities and public figures often highlight the attractiveness of Mumbai’s property market as both a lifestyle and investment choice. With this sale, reports suggest that Hema Malini continues to hold multiple other assets in Mumbai and beyond, reflecting her long-standing financial stability and diversified investments. According to wealth estimates, her net worth currently stands at around Rs 122 crore, which includes real estate, film royalties, political career-related income, and brand endorsements.
Property market analysts say that Mumbai has witnessed a steady stream of high-value deals in 2025, with many Bollywood actors and industrialists either upgrading to larger luxury residences or liquidating older assets for fresh investments. Hema Malini’s decision to sell the Oshiwara apartments may be aligned with similar trends, as celebrities often restructure their real estate portfolios based on lifestyle preferences, family requirements, or investment strategies. The deal further reinforces Mumbai’s position as one of the most expensive real estate markets in India, where even mid-sized apartments in prime localities often command premium rates.
For fans of Hema Malini, the news reflects another chapter in the life of the legendary actress who continues to balance her film legacy, political responsibilities, and financial management with elegance.
Bollywood Actress Hema Malini Sells Two Mumbai Apartments For Rs 12.50 Crore
Mumbai Railways To Lease Mahalaxmi And Bandra Plots Earning Rs 6k Crore Revenue
