Pithoragarh Opens Its First Dedicated Astro-Tourism Observatory

Pithoragarh Opens Its First Dedicated Astro-Tourism Observatory

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 2, 2026

In a significant step towards promoting science-driven and sustainable tourism, the District Tourism Department of Pithoragarh, in collaboration with Starscapes Experiences Pvt. Ltd., has inaugurated the district’s first dedicated astro-tourism observatory. The facility was inaugurated by Satpal Maharaj, Minister for Tourism, Uttarakhand, marking a new chapter in experiential tourism for the region.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Ashish Kumar Bhatgain, District Magistrate, Pithoragarh; Kalpana Devlal, Mayor, Pithoragarh; and Kirti Chand Arya, District Tourism Development Officer, Pithoragarh. The observatory is envisioned as a hub for astronomy-based activities while encouraging responsible tourism and community participation.

Starscapes Experiences Pvt. Ltd., India’s leading astro-tourism company, has trained local youth as Astro Guides to conduct guided stargazing sessions and manage observatory operations. This approach integrates public infrastructure with community skill development, creating a sustainable model that supports scientific literacy, tourism growth, and local livelihood generation.

Speaking at the inauguration, Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj said, “The ideas and discussions around building observatories and promoting astro-tourism within the department have been underway for a long time, and it is extremely heartening to see this vision take tangible shape. The observatory established in Pithoragarh will not only encourage scientific activities but will also create new avenues for tourism and employment for local communities. In the coming years, the government will work towards setting up observatories at other suitable locations across the state and strengthening the foundational infrastructure required for astro-tourism.”

The observatory will host astronomy sessions, night-sky observations, and educational programmes for students, tourists, and local residents. With Pithoragarh’s natural dark skies and high-altitude geography, the initiative is expected to position the district as a key astro-tourism destination in Uttarakhand.

Highlighting the district’s vision, Kirti Chandra Arya, District Tourism Development Officer, Pithoragarh, said, “Pithoragarh’s natural dark skies offer immense potential for astro-tourism. Through this observatory and the training of local Astro Guides, the district administration aims to position Pithoragarh as a responsible and sustainable tourism destination while ensuring that local communities directly benefit from this initiative.”

Sharing insights from the industry perspective, Hem Sharma of Starscapes remarked, “Astro-tourism becomes truly impactful when world-class infrastructure is supported by well-trained local guides. By training Astro Guides for the Pithoragarh observatory, we are ensuring that scientific facilities are accessible, engaging, and professionally managed. This model not only enhances visitor experience but also creates long-term livelihood opportunities rooted in local talent.”


Bikanervala to Open New Outlet at SPS Realty's Helios in Zirakpur

Bikanervala to Open New Outlet at SPS Realty's Helios in Zirakpur

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 3, 2026

SPS Realty has announced that Bikanervala, one of India's most recognised food and sweets brands, will open a new outlet at its flagship commercial development, Helios, located on VIP Road in Zirakpur. The addition is set to strengthen the project's retail and food & beverage ecosystem while enhancing its appeal as a lifestyle destination.

The upcoming outlet will offer Bikanervala's wide range of traditional Indian sweets, snacks, and dining options, catering to residents, businesses, and visitors from Zirakpur and nearby areas. The brand's presence is expected to serve as a key food and beverage anchor within the commercial development.

Commenting on the association, Rohit Singla, Director, SPS Realty, said, "The addition of Bikanervala at Helios reflects our vision of creating a well-rounded commercial destination that brings together premium retail, food, and lifestyle experiences. We aim to curate a diverse ecosystem where businesses can thrive while offering visitors a complete experience under one roof."

Helios has been designed as SPS Realty's flagship commercial project, featuring contemporary architecture, premium commercial spaces, and a strategic location on VIP Road. The development comprises 177 premium retail and showroom spaces, offering high-visibility opportunities for established brands, entrepreneurs, and businesses.

The arrival of Bikanervala is expected to further strengthen Helios' growing tenant mix while enhancing customer engagement by adding a well-established food and beverage destination. With increasing urbanisation and rising demand for organised retail spaces in the region, the project is positioned to emerge as a preferred commercial hub in Zirakpur.

Through this partnership, SPS Realty continues its focus on developing commercial destinations that combine retail, dining, and lifestyle experiences while creating new opportunities for businesses and consumers alike.


McDonald's India – North and East Crosses 200 McCafé Outlets, Partners with Tara Sutaria

McDonald's India – North and East Crosses 200 McCafé Outlets, Partners with Tara Sutaria

By Hariharan U

Published on August 3, 2026

McDonald's India – North and East has announced the expansion of its McCafé network to 200 outlets across North and East India, marking a significant milestone in the brand's coffee business. The expansion reflects the company's continued investment in making premium-quality coffee more accessible as India's café culture continues to evolve.

To commemorate the milestone, McDonald's India – North and East has partnered with Tara Sutaria as the face of McCafé, bringing its "Good Vibes Start with McCafe" platform to life through a new brand campaign celebrating everyday coffee moments and connections.

As part of the celebration, McCafé has also introduced a new Summer Range featuring Strawberry Matcha, Affogato, Salted Caramel Latte, Chai Latte, and Passion Fruit Cooler, expanding its beverage portfolio with refreshing and indulgent options designed for evolving consumer preferences.

Commenting on the milestone, Anant Agarwal, Vice-Chairperson, CPRL (McDonald's India – North and East), said, "At McCafé, our ambition is to build one of India's most loved and trusted coffee brands by making great coffee accessible to more consumers without compromising on quality or value. The milestone of 200 McCafé outlets reflects our continued investment in expanding our footprint and strengthening our beverage portfolio. As coffee culture continues to evolve in India, our refreshed 'Good Vibes Start with McCafe' platform, along with our collaboration with Tara Sutaria as the face of McCafé, reinforces our commitment to connecting with young consumers and making McCafé their preferred choice for everyday coffee occasions."

Sharing her thoughts on the association, Tara Sutaria said, "Coffee has always been an important part of my everyday routine, whether it's the first cup that starts my day, a mid-day pick-me-up or a quiet moment to unwind. Over the years, McCafé has become one of my go-to choices, whether I'm in India or travelling abroad, because I know I can always count on a great cup of coffee. McCafé's Cappuccino is one of my personal favourites whenever I'm looking for something indulgent. I'm delighted to be associated with a brand that shares my love for great coffee and celebrates the everyday rituals that make each cup special."

The new summer beverage range is now available across McCafé outlets in North and East India. Customers can also order through dine-in, Self-Ordering Kiosks (SOK), takeaway, drive-thru, delivery platforms, and the McDonald's App.

The campaign has been conceptualised by BBDO India, part of Omnicom Advertising India.


Point Break Challenge Opens in Mahabalipuram as India's Top Surfers Compete in National Surf Series

Point Break Challenge Opens in Mahabalipuram as India's Top Surfers Compete in National Surf Series

By Hariharan U

Published on August 2, 2026

The Point Break Challenge got underway in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, marking Stop 3 of the Surfing Federation of India (SFI) National Surf Series, India's premier national surfing championship circuit. The opening day witnessed nearly 80 surfers from seven to eight coastal states competing across multiple categories.

The competition features athletes in the Men's Open, Women's Open, Under-18, and Under-14 divisions, with every heat contributing valuable points towards the national championship rankings.

Mahabalipuram's renowned right-hand point break provided ideal conditions for the opening day. Known for its long, peeling waves, the surf break offered competitors the opportunity to showcase high-performance surfing and extended rides, making it one of the most anticipated venues on the national calendar.

Among the standout performances, Shrikanth D led the Men's Open category with wave scores of 9.00 and 7.67, while Kishore Kumar dominated the Under-18 Boys division with scores of 9.33 and 8.17. His 9.33 emerged as the highest single-wave score recorded on the opening day. In the Under-14 Boys category, Prahalad Sriram topped the leaderboard with scores of 6.50 and 6.33.

As the third stop of the national championship circuit, the Point Break Challenge plays an important role in shaping the overall standings before the series moves to the Covelong Classic in Kovalam, Chennai, scheduled from 6–8 August.

Following the domestic circuit, Mahabalipuram will also host the WSL Shore Temple Classic from 12–16 August, giving Indian surfers the opportunity to compete on home waves in an international event.

The Point Break Challenge will continue until 1 August 2026 and is supported by the Sports Authority of India (SAI), the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT), and TT Group. The event is organised by the Surfing Federation of India (SFI) and the Tamil Nadu Surfing Association (TNSA).

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