New York’s iconic dessert brand Magnolia Bakery has opened its second store in Gurugram, located at CyberHub, marking another step forward in the brand’s growing presence in India. The launch follows the strong response received by its first Gurugram outlet, which opened in November 2025.

Founded in 1996 on Bleecker Street in New York City’s West Village, Magnolia Bakery has become globally known for its classic American desserts and its widely popular Banana Pudding. Over the years, the brand has built a reputation for comforting, baked-from-scratch offerings that have resonated with dessert lovers worldwide.

Brought to India by Spago Foods, the CyberHub outlet reflects Magnolia Bakery’s steady expansion strategy in the country. With this opening, the brand now operates 12 outlets across India, including locations in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Gurugram.

Located on the ground floor at CyberHub, one of Gurugram’s most prominent dining and social hubs, the new store spans 1,482 square feet. Designed to mirror Magnolia Bakery’s warm and familiar aesthetic, the space offers guests a relaxed setting to enjoy the brand’s signature desserts.

Commenting on the launch, Zonu Reddy, Co-founder, Spago Foods, said, “Our first store in Gurugram showed us the strong interest for Magnolia Bakery in the city. CyberHub allows us to build on that interest in a space known for its vibrant food and social culture. We look forward to welcoming guests and sharing our signature desserts at this new store.”

As with all Magnolia Bakery outlets, everything at the CyberHub store is handmade and freshly prepared daily. Guests can enjoy the brand’s signature Banana Pudding along with classic cakes, cupcakes, brownies and ice creams, served in an inviting environment that reflects Magnolia Bakery’s timeless appeal.

Tmt. J. Innocent Divya, IAS, has been appointed as the new Commissioner of Tamil Nadu Tourism and Managing Director of the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC), marking an important leadership transition for the state’s tourism sector.

Prior to taking charge of tourism, J. Innocent Divya served as Commissioner of Technical Education, where she played a key role in policy execution, institutional strengthening and administrative reforms. Her tenure in the education department was marked by a focus on governance efficiency and system-level improvements.

With her experience across public administration and policy implementation, the appointment is expected to bring a renewed strategic approach to tourism development in Tamil Nadu. The state’s tourism ecosystem, which spans heritage, culture, coastal destinations and emerging experiential travel, stands to benefit from a leadership focus on innovation, infrastructure coordination and visitor-centric initiatives.

As Commissioner and MD of TTDC, J. Innocent Divya will oversee tourism promotion, destination development and operational initiatives aimed at enhancing Tamil Nadu’s position as one of India’s leading tourism destinations. Her administrative background is also expected to support stronger inter-departmental coordination and sustainable growth of the sector.

Republic Day celebrations in Delhi-NCR are stepping outside parade grounds and official venues this year, as leading malls across the region curate special experiences that blend national pride with culture, music and community engagement. From flag hoistings and naval band performances to artisan showcases and fitness-led festivities, malls are emerging as vibrant spaces to mark January 26 in a more inclusive and engaging way.

DLF Mall of India, Noida, will begin its celebrations with a formal flag-hoisting ceremony involving mall management, staff and retail partners, underlining the theme of national unity. Adding to the patriotic mood, an SSB band performance on January 25 will energise visitors, while a tricolour-themed photo installation offers shoppers a chance to capture the spirit of the day.

At Gaur City Mall, Republic Day takes on a reflective and emotional tone with “Naye Bharat ki Nayi Udaan.” The celebrations will be led by Retd. Major General Vinod Kumar Tiwari, Indian Army, who will preside over the flag hoisting and address audiences. A special tribute to the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram will feature a 25-member children’s choir, followed by the national anthem. The evening concludes with Shaurya Utsav, a theatrical ballet that honours the courage and sacrifices of India’s soldiers through music, storytelling and dance.

Vegas Mall, Dwarka, sets the mood early with a Vande Mataram Naval Band performance on January 24. Held at the Central Piazza, the Indian Navy band will perform patriotic compositions in a tricolour-themed setting, creating a stirring prelude to Republic Day celebrations.

Cultural heritage takes centre stage at Ambience Mall, Gurugram and Vasant Kunj, with Dastaan-e-Bharat, a month-long showcase running until January 26, 2026. The festival brings together artisans and craftsmen from across India, presenting handlooms, handicrafts, jewellery, home décor and heritage products. Live demonstrations, folk music, dance performances, storytelling sessions and hands-on workshops offer visitors a deeper connection with India’s diverse traditions.

Meanwhile, Spectrum Metro Mall, Noida, is hosting a three-day Republic Day celebration from January 24 to 26, combining patriotism with fitness and high-energy performances. Kathak, patriotic Bollywood numbers, live bands, Zumba, Bhangra and artistic yoga sessions form the core of the programming, culminating in a flag-hoisting ceremony on Republic Day amid tricolour décor.

Overall, this Republic Day, Delhi-NCR malls are redefining how the national holiday is experienced. By combining culture, fitness, music and community participation, these retail spaces are turning into shared celebration zones—making Republic Day both meaningful and memorable for families and visitors alike