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OnePlus First Exclusive Premium Mobile Store In Mohali At HLP Gallerria Mall 

By
Sanjeev Kochhar
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Special inaugural deals on OnePlus flagship series mobiles and other devices
Additional festive gifts on spinning the wheel

It may currently not be among the top 5 bestselling smartphone brands in India, but OnePlus is fast reinventing itself to regain its robust share of the market and the tag of ‘flagship killer’ it enjoyed not so long ago, when it was challenging the dominance of Apple and Samsung and emerging as an alternative.

Confident of recapturing the imagination of its tech-savvy youth customer fan base, with its newer offerings, especially the latest launch – the OnePlus 15R – the company has embarked on an expansion of its offline presence from the existing countrywide chain of 87 exclusive retail stores.

As part of this offline expansion, OnePlus launched its exclusive premium retail store in HLP Gallerria mall, Sector 62, Mohali on Monday (Dec 22), increasing the number of stores in Chandigarh and Punjab to four, the earlier ones being in Chandigarh, Ludhiana and Jalandhar.

Interacting exclusively with your own news portal LifeInChandigarh.com at the launch, R. Dominic Nandesh Kumar, Operations Head (Retail), OnePlus India, informed that 2-3 more stores are expected to be opened in Punjab soon for which the company is scouting for prime locations.

Among others present were Gagan Marwaha, Regional Sales Manager (Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana), OnePlus; Parminder, City Manager, OnePlus; and Harman Preet Kaur, Store Manager.

Spread across 800 sq ft, the new store brings the entire OnePlus product ecosystem under one roof, from mobiles, to tablets, to IoT devices, offering customers an immersive hands-on experience.

The Mohali store comes in the middle of the all-pervading festive spirt in anticipation of Christmas and the New Year and coincides with the commencement of sale of the newest flagship series smartphone from the OnePlus stable – the OnePlus 15R.

The company claims that OnePlus 15R is the first smartphone across all brands to launch with Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, co-developed with Qualcomm, the chip maker.

The phone pairs the new chip with a 165 Hz display, massive 7400 mAh battery, three-layered cooling system and IP 68, 69 and 69K certification, offering enhanced dust and water resistance for added durability.

According to Qualcomm, Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5 mobile platform is a masterpiece of performance, delivering state-of-the-art experiences and personalized Agentic AI.

Fueled by the 3rd gen Qualcomm® Oryon™ CPU, the fastest mobile CPU in the world, this powerhouse ushers in record-breaking speeds and unmatched efficiency. Users can enjoy seamless performance from lightning-fast app launches and instantaneous multi-tasking to fast-paced gameplay and responsive mobile content creation, as per Qualcomm’s assertion.

Special inaugural deals

To celebrate the store launch, customers can avail several exciting inaugural deals, which include free Nord Buds 3 Pro (worth ₹3,699) with the purchase of the OnePlus 15; and free Nord Buds 3 (worth ₹2,699) with the purchase of OnePlus 13 and 13S series phones and the newly launched 15R.

OnePlus Nord Wireless Bullets (worth ₹2,299) on select purchases are also on offer besides additional discounts and cashback offers across the product range.

A highlight of the launch phase of the new outlet is the ‘Spin the Wheel’ installation inside the store. Every visitor can spin the wheel and win a complimentary gift based on where the arrow lands, making the visit both rewarding and memorable.

For more on OnePlus: https://www.oneplus.in/

Golfing Community Raises Toast To Karandeep Kochhar For Recent Run Of Successes

By
Sanjeev Kochhar
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Karandeep Kochhar with the trophy after winning the Egypt Series Tour - Red Sea Open. FILE Photos: Courtesy Asian Tour
Now needs to continue the momentum into higher level of competition on the main Asian Tour, to which he has earned an automatic re-entry basis his 5th ranking at the conclusion of the Asian Development Tour season 2025. He had lost the main Asian Tour card on the back of a rough and uninspiring 2024 season

Nine years ago, at age 17 years, this Chandigarh lad made Indian golf history, when participating in his first professional event as an amateur, he won the PGTI (Professional Golfers Tour of India) Players Championship at Tollygunge. He not only became the first Indian amateur to win on the PGTI but also the youngest golfer to do so at age 17 years and 163 days, soon after which he turned professional in 2017.

Today, at age 26 years, he is a multiple winner on PGTI and has won titles on the ADT (Asian Development Tour) and cricket great Yuvraj Singh co-promoted recently launched IGPL (Indian Golfers Premier League), to which he has moved on from the PGTI.

Now he is preparing to take another shot at the highly competitive main Asian Tour, to which he has received an automatic re-entry basis his 5th position finish on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) season 2025 final Order of Merit after having lost his tour card on the back of a rough and uninspiring 2024 season.

Last week the golfing community raised a toast to Karandeep Kochhar at a luncheon gathering, organised in his honour jointly by his grandfather Dr GS Kochhar and well-known ophthalmologist Dr SPS Grewal in the lawns of Chandigarh Club to applaud his recent run of good form, resulting in a 5th position finish on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) season 2025 rankings after the season finale, the US$ 250,000 Aramco Invitational in Saudi Arabia.

The 5th spot in the ADT season ranking, powered by two peak finishes in the 10 appearances he made on the tour in 2025 – a win at the Egypt Golf Series – Red Sea Open last month and a runner-up at Morocco Rising Stars 1 earlier in June – sealed for Karandeep an automatic spot on the coveted main 2026 Asian Tour with $43,508 in earnings. He’ll return to the main tour after a gap having slipped into poor form through 2024, following a good run in 2023.

With this, he has become the third straight Indian to graduate to the main Asian Tour via the ADT rankings route, following Yuvraj Sandhu in 2023 and Rahil Gangjee in 2024.

Karandeep Kochhar with parents (to his right) and grandparents.

Speaking exclusively with your own news portal LifeInChandigarh.com, Karandeep, who took his baby steps in golf at a tender age of four years with his grandfather, who was playing a tournament then, said while playing at the highest international level on the PGA (Professional Golfers’ Association) Tour is the ultimate goal of every professional golfer, he prefers to set short term goals at a time, and achieve them before looking ahead. “For the next two years I will concentrate on participating in and doing well on the main Asian Tour”, he added.

While profusely acknowledging the vital role played by his coach since childhood Jesse Grewal and his fitness trainer Sagar Diwan in shaping his golfing career, Karandeep said “I consider myself equally fortunate to be from Chandigarh because it has given me the opportunity to play alongside and learn from top golfers like main Asian Tour winner Gaganjeet Bhullar.”

Among others whom he expressed his gratefulness for what he is today, apart from his “highly supportive family”, are top professional Shiv Kapur and cricket great turned co-promoter of recently launched IGPL Yuvraj Singh.

About preparing for the challenges ahead, Karandeep said “extensive travel and participation in tournaments (he has competed in 32 tournaments this year) puts a heavy load on the body and mind. Therefore, I’m concentrating on maintaining peak physical fitness and trying to remain injury-free. Mental conditioning to remain calm and composed in pressure situations is another area of focus for which I am receiving professional help,” he added.

Refusing to be drawn into the controversy surrounding the newly launched IGPL being a rival or challenge to the more established PGTI, Karandeep confessed that it was a very difficult decision for him to make, having to choose between continuing PGTI and switching to IGPL. It took me a good month and a half to arrive at a final decision to go with IGPL. In hindsight I believe I made the right move. It gives me greater flexibility to play the main Asian Tour and return to IGPL as and when possible. Plus, it offers greater financial support,” he shared.

Karandeep Kochhar’s guidance for parents of budding golfers is “let the children enjoy. Don’t push them too hard and expect early success because they run the risk of burning out at a very young age.” He was however happy to note that the “story is changing. Parents are increasingly playing a supportive role, as they should. They are realising that modern day kids may not want what their parents want or expect of them to do. By pushing them too hard they run the risk of breaking that fragile bond, that personal relationship.”

“One thing which I have learnt over time from my senior and mentors, and which has kept me in good stead, is to trust the process, stay the course, and results will come,” he added further.

Some of Karandeep Kochhar’s Career Highlights

2016

  • Won the All India Amateur
  • India’s No. 1 junior with four titles, including the Eastern India Junior
  • Represented India at international events such as Jakarta Junior World Championship, Asia Junior Championship and the Junior Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass in USA
  • Won the PGTI Players Championship at Tollygunge as an amateur in his first appearance in a professional tournament

His other PGTI wins

  • TATA Steel PGTI Players Championship Presented by Chandigarh Golf Club 2020
  • Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational Presented by TAKE 2020
  • Gujarat Open Golf Championship 2022 presented by Gujarat Tourism

2017

  • In his rookie season as a professional, secured tied second place at the Asian Tour’s Panasonic Open India and tied fourth place at the PGTI’s TAKE Open Golf Championship

2018

  • Posted three top-10s on the PGTI to finish 9th on the PGTI money list. His best result during the season was runner-up at the Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational 2018 Presented by TAKE.

2019

  • Six top-10s on the PGTI, helping him take the 4th place on the PGTI Order of Merit. His top results included second place at the INDO-MIM Presents Bengaluru Open 2019 Powered by Karnataka Tourism, third place at the Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational 2019 Presented by TAKE and tied third at the Bengal Open
  • Claimed tied 10th place at the Asian Tour’s Yeangder TPC 2019

2020-21

  • Finished 2nd in the 2020-21 PGTI Order of Merit, registering two wins and seven other top-10s. His wins came at the TATA Steel PGTI Players Championship Presented by Chandigarh Golf Club and the Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational 2020 Presented by TAKE. He also took second place at the TATA Steel PGTI Players Championship 2020 Presented by Panchkula Golf Club and the Golconda Masters Telangana Open 2021 presented by Vooty & Haldi.

2022

  • Won the Gujarat Open Golf Championship 2022 presented by Gujarat Tourism. Six other top-10s during the season, including a runner-up finish at the Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational 2022 presented by TAKE, which saw him finish 5th on the PGTI’s money list in 2022.

2025

  • Win on the ADT at the Egypt Golf Series – Red Sea Open
  • Runner-up at Morocco Rising Stars 1
  • Maiden IGPL victory at the IGPL Invitational UAE in Dubai
  • Runner-up finish at the IGPL Invitational Kolkata

Literary Fest At Firststeps School-26: Authors’ Message – ‘One Who Reads Well, Writes Well’

By
Sanjeev Kochhar
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ALL SMILES: (from left to right) Muthamma; Deepta Vivekanand; Marvin Choudhary, Head of Cambridge at Firststeps School; Jasbir Kaur, Principal of Firststeps School; Asha Nehemiah; Vidya Mani; Shyam Madhavan Sarada; and Meghaa Gupta. PHOTOS Courtesy: Firststeps School-26

The occasion brought together thoughtful and engaging children’s literature books, leading children’s authors and storytellers, and young readers for a shared reading experience, a welcome departure from the routine solitary reading.

The first day of a 3-day ‘Paper Trails Literary Fest – 2025’, organised by one of Chandigarh tricity’s first International Baccalaureate (IB) schools – Firststeps School in Sector 26 Chandigarh – on its campus, witnessed absorbing storytelling sessions, illustration activity for book covers, book readings and more.

The purpose of the lit fest – to reinforce the importance of reading and writing among children – was served well with accomplished visiting children’s literature writers of the likes of Asha Nehemiah, Meghaa Gupta, Vidya Mani, Shyam Madhavan Sarada aka Greystroke and storyteller Deeptha Vivekanand admirably firing the imagination and curiosity of the students.

Students also remained glued to a travelling children’s bookshop, arranged by Funky Rainbow, India’s only independent bookshop with an exclusive focus on Indian children’s books, showcasing a range of books, especially those authored by the visiting authors, illustrators and storytellers.

The bookshop, which has outlets in Bangalore and Mysore, claims its collection of books is hand-picked by writers, illustrators and editors for children between ages 0 to 18 years. The collection is curated to represent the best of Indian children’s writing because it believes that books by Indian writers work well for children in terms of connection, discoveries and experiences.

Author Asha Nehemiah in one of the sessions

Interacting with your own news portal LifeInChandigarh.com on the sidelines of the literary fest, the visiting writers gave insights into how the children’s literature books are curated to attract their attention, enjoy what they are reading, inculcate a love for reading and also encourage them to start exploring their thoughts and eventually weaving their own stories from their own environments, thoughts, reads, and experiences. The catch phrase of the writers during the entire media interaction was “one who reads well, writes well”.

The authors and storytellers emphasised that now there is no dearth of good original Indian children’s books. The need is for greater number of parents and children to be made aware of their availability and persuaded to access these as per their choice, in print or digital form. Interactive literary fests, like this one in Firststeps School, are a good way of inculcating reading and writing habits among children, and these are increasingly becoming popular in schools which are in tune with contemporary times, they added.

Editor Vidya Mani interacting with the students

“Let children be children, natural and free flowing. Parents and teachers should consciously avoid giving stress to children by badgering them about perpetually being in competition and instead create an enabling environment in which they grow organically, explore and indulge in whatever interests them.

“Let them be curious about things, ask as many questions as come to their mind, that will bring out the originality in them. And children’s literature books with elements of interesting characters, humour, mystery, adventure, and more, are their best friends, sparking curiosity, critical thinking, empathy for others, finding inspiration from characters and situations to understand societal issues and find solutions,” was the visiting writers’ collective parting message.

Students are all ears to Shyam Madhavan Sarada aka Greystroke

Principal of the school, Jasbir Kaur shared that Firststeps is an International Baccalaureate (IB) school where “We move beyond rote memorization to deep conceptual understanding and real-world application. It offers IB Primary Years Programme till Grade V and Cambridge International Examination from Grade VI onwards.”

Prior to the literary fest, school students participated in poetry and writing activities all month long and have also prepared a showcase to exhibit their enquiry cycle based on literature, she added.

She also announced that the school management will soon be opening an IB School in Panchkula as well.

Brief profiles of some of the visiting authors

Asha Nehemiah: Has authored a bevy of children’s books like ‘The Rajah’s Moustache’; ‘Granny’s Sari’; ‘Mrs Woolly’s Funny Sweaters’; ‘Thieves and AHA! Adventures’ among many more.

Meghaa Gupta: Is known for her history series on Independent India published by Penguin Random House.

Vidya Mani: Is an editor and children’s writer. She runs a content and design studio called ‘Melting Pot’. She has edited children’s magazines like Chatterbox, Quest, Junior Quest, Hoot and Toot.

Shyam Madhavan Sarada aka Greystroke: Is an illustrator, cartoonist, art director, publisher. His book ‘Wailers Three’, published by Pratham Books, is a CBSE recommended reader for English for the Kendriya Vidyalaya schools.

PizzaExpress Now Open In Elante Chandigarh; Enjoy All-Day Dining With UK’s No. 1 Pizzeria

By
Sanjeev Kochhar
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PHOTOS By: LifeInChandigarh.com & GIPL

Pizzaiolos continue to remain at the very heart of its “beautifully simple” menu, but beyond pizzas, UK’s No. 1 Pizzeria and a global Britalian icon ‘PizzaExpress’ now has a complete all-day dining offering: its world-famous dough balls, rice bowls, fresh salads, lasagne, risottos, hand-made pastas, Italian sandwiches (Piadina), handcrafted desserts such as tiramisu, sticky toffee pudding, mango cheesecake, and gelato, and not to forget a child-friendly Piccolo Menu with activity packs.

A refreshed beverage programme, featuring cocktails, mocktails, sangrias, a carefully selected range of coffees, and a curated wine list round out the menu.

After guests in Mohali (CP-67 mall) from a year and a half ago, and more recently in Ludhiana (Downtown Market, Bhai Randhir Singh Nagar) popularly embraced the brand’s “blend of authenticity, freshness, and flair”, PizzaExpress has made a triumphant entry into Chandigarh, on the third floor of the city’s hottest melting pot, Nexus Elante Mall.

This opening marks Pizza Express’ 37th restaurant in India and extends the brand’s 60-year legacy to the country’s most iconic architectural marvel of a city and North India’s most discerning and well-travelled markets. Amritsar and Jalandhar are “next chapters” in the brand’s North India growth story as it stays on track to reach a milestone of 50 restaurants by FY 2026–27. Locations are also being scouted for future entry into Panchkula and Zirakpur.

The brand has been brought to India by Gourmet Investments Private Limited (GIPL), the food and beverage vertical of Bharti Family Office, which is also the India partners for other renowned international restaurant brands like Chili’s and PF Chang’s.

In his media message at the opening of the Chandigarh restaurant, Ramit Bharti Mittal, Chairman and Director, GIPL, said: “PizzaExpress has grown into a globally loved dining experience across 13 countries, and we’re delighted to bring this heritage to Chandigarh. The city values authenticity and craft, which is exactly what PizzaExpress stands for. Our Britalian identity, iconic menu, and commitment to quality align beautifully with the way Chandigarh dines. This launch is also a key step in our strategic North India expansion.”

Jerry Thomas, Culinary Head – Restaurants, GIPL (right) and Kumar Asit, India CEO, PizzaExpress, showcase the menu highlights and brand signatures at the newly opened PizzaExpress restaurant in Nexus Elante Mall, Chandigarh
PizzaExpress interiors in Chandigarh
Striped-uniformed pizzaiolos at work in the signature open kitchen at PizzaExpress restaurant in Nexus Elante Mall, Chandigarh

Speaking to your own news portal LifeInChandigarh.com at a select media preview on Wednesday (Dec 3, 2025), Jerry Thomas, Culinary Head – Restaurants, GIPL, shared: “Our cuisine philosophy has always been beautifully simple. With our Pizzaiolos at the heart of everything, the dough remains the hero. Fresh ingredients, treated with respect, create flavours that stay consistent around the world.

“While our core never changes, innovation is part of the PizzaExpress DNA. That’s why international favourites like the Leggera, a lighter, under-600-calorie innovation endorsed by the Weight Watchers Society, perfect for fitness enthusiasts, sit comfortably alongside local adaptations. For Chandigarh, we’ve crafted dishes such as the Spicy American Hottest, Padrino, and Chicken & Paneer Coriander Pesto, developed to suit the flavour preferences of Indian guests.”

Kumar Asit, India CEO, PizzaExpress, felt that “Chandigarh’s love for good food, modern design, and elevated dining fits seamlessly with the PizzaExpress ethos. The opening of our 2nd restaurant in the tricity signals strong appetite here for premium casual dining. After Mohali, Ludhiana and Chandigarh, Amritsar and Jalandhar will be the next chapters in our North India growth story and with this, we are firmly on track to reach a milestone of 50 restaurants by FY 2026–27.”

Calabrese Veg : Char-grilled vegetables and black olives mixed with finely chopped red chillies, jalapeños, red & yellow peppers & mozzarella, finished with baby mozzarella and rocket, mixed with pesto & Emilgrana cheese

Sharing further details, Jerry Thomas said: “The Chandigarh menu stays rooted in PizzaExpress’ heritage while embracing flavours that suit the Indian palate. At its heart are the three signature bases: Classic, Romana and newly launched Naples; carrying global favourites such as the Romana, Queen Margherita, Lava, American Hot and the Michelin-star-created Calabrese, a bold rectangular pizza born from the brand’s culinary collaboration with chef Francesco Mazzei.  The Romana brings that iconic thin, stretched, crisp base PizzaExpress is loved for, while the new Naples base offers a softer, fuller, more indulgent bite inspired by the pizzerias of southern Italy.”

IL Padrino Leggera : Grilled chicken, roasted tomatoes, char-grilled vegetables on a tomato and pesto base, with baby mozzarella

At the heart of these signatures is the brand’s iconic tomato passata, claimed to be made exclusively for PizzaExpress by the Greci family in Italy, using San Marzano tomatoes crushed within 12 hours of harvest and finished with a basil leaf for the unmistakable flavour the brand is known for worldwide.

Alongside these icons are local adaptations crafted specially for India, including the Spicy Grilled Chicken Pizza, Chicken Coriander Pesto Pizza and Tandoori Chicken Pizza, each designed to “echo the region’s love for bold, vibrant flavours”. And because Punjab loves its chicken, the menu also features wings in four styles: crispy fried wings, smoky BBQ wings, classic hot wings and creamy red jalapeño hot wings.

Bringing the brand’s story to life is the signature open kitchen, where guests can watch the striped-uniformed Pizzaiolos hand craft every base with flair, tossing them up with precision and theatre.

Crispy Hot Wings: Fried crispy wings tossed in hot, spicy guntur chilli sauce and butter
Doppio Dough Balls : A double portion of famous dough balls served with a trio of dips: pesto, pesto rosso and garlic butter
Indi- Meat Piadina – Naples Style street Sandwich: East meets west in this bold piadina sandwich, featuring malai and tandoori tikka, creamy baby mozzarella, and coriander pesto in every bite
Queen Margherita- Romana: A whole creamy burrata, on mozzarella base. Finished with fresh basil and shaved Emilgrana
Sticky Toffee Pudding : A warm decadent pudding infused with rich toffee, silky caramel sauce, and crowned with a scoop of vanilla Gelato

GB Realty Unveils Box Price, Lucrative 1 % Monthly Payment Plan For Opus One New Chandigarh

By
Sanjeev Kochhar
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GB Realty Founder & Chairman Gurinder Bhatti (right) addressing a media meet in Chandigarh on Monday (December 1, 2025) to announce the box price and lucrative payment plan for the recently launched luxury residential project Opus One in New Chandigarh. On his right is Jatinder Bajwa, Vice President, GB Realty. PHOTO Credit: GB Realty

In a path-breaking initiative in the North India market, the reputed Optas Group, a multi-nation conglomerate with interests in luxury hospitality, global student mobility, education, media, and infotainment, and which has made a most recent entry in the luxury real estate arena with GB Realty, has announced a lucrative ‘1 % Monthly Luxury Home Payment Plan’ for its recently launched luxury project Opus One in the new real estate hotspot New Chandigarh.

In an effort to make luxury projects more accessible to aspiring Indians, the developer has taken inspiration from some of the bigger players in the other real estate hotspots in the country and beyond, to offer the ‘1 % Monthly Luxury Home Payment Plan’ under which a buyer pays 20% price of the 3,000 sq ft 3 BHK, 4,500 sq ft 4 BHK, and 5,500 sq ft 5 BHK ultra luxury residences upfront  as down payment, followed by up to 1 per cent monthly pay-outs for 42 months. This completes 40 % of the total payment due. The balance 60 % is to be paid on possession.

Opus One is GB Realty’s maiden luxury residential project on GMADA (Greater Mohali Area Development Authority) auctioned 8.75 acres land parcel in Ecocity Two, abutting the main arterial road in New Chandigarh.

Touted as the first GMADA ‘Iconic Certified’ RERA approved project in New Chandigarh, Opus One has also been awarded Indian Green Building Council (IGBC)’s Platinum rating, the first project in New Chandigarh to receive this certification.

The Opus One project, heavy earthwork for which has picked up pace, is promised to be delivered in December 2029 – in 4 years flat.

With the declaration of the ‘1 % Monthly Luxury Home Payment Plan’ and a Box Price of Rs 12,250 per square foot, which includes fully finished residences (movable furniture as per taste of buyer), dedicated car parking/s (one for 3 BHK, 2 for 4 BHK and 3 for 5 BHK), 100% power backup, clubhouse membership, interest-free maintenance security (IFMS), etc, the company has formally opened bookings for the project, though informally expression of interest had already been invited from prospective buyers.

Sharing the details of the path-breaking payment plan on December 1, the first anniversary of GB Realty’s establishment, at a media meet in Chandigarh, as promised, GB Realty’s Founder and Chairman Gurinder Bhatti said “We have designed the 1 % Monthly Luxury Home Payment Plan keeping middle and upper middle class aspirational buyers in mind. We feel that luxury should not remain a privilege of the rich, it must also be accessible to aspirational Indians.”

Vouching for transparency and best practices, Bhatti claimed that the 1% plan brings clarity, removes hidden conditions, and helps families plan their finances comfortably over four years while boosting confidence in the luxury real estate market.

He maintained that traditionally real estate developers have been hesitant in investing upfront on their own and putting the financial onus nearly completely on the buyer. “In this plan we have taken it upon ourselves, and we are happy to have bucked the trend. We have made the initial 37% investment in the project by way of land and other costs from our own funds, and the customers’ contributions will take care of the construction costs.

“The model ensures that the builder is paid last, placing responsibility for timely delivery squarely on the developer and strengthening buyer confidence in a market where trust is paramount. Our focus is on making enabling provisions for the prospective residents of Opus One,” he asserted.

Bhatti was accompanied at the media meet by GB Realty Vice President Jatinder Bajwa.

The project brings together some of the noted design and planning minds, including Principal Architect Tripat Girdhar, Founder/MD of Chandigarh-based Arete Design Studio, acclaimed for designing landmark projects in Mohali, Zirakpur, Ludhiana and Bangalore.

The landscape architecture is being handled by PLA, the landscape and design collective based in Bangkok, Thailand, which has executed well kwon projects like The Oberoi and The Leela in New Delhi, and closer home The Oberoi Sukhvilas in New Chandigarh.

Lighting & Visual Planners based in New South Wales, Australia is taking care of lighting design at Opus One. The firm is famous for its involvement in iconic projects like The Opera House in Sydney and Jal Mahal, Jaipur.

International creative collective Interior Design Consultants Singapore has been engaged for designing the interiors of the project. This Singapore-based firm has among other big projects excelled in designing the interiors The Ritz Carlton, Macau.

Opus One is a sustainable development, with 79% of the land parcel dedicated to green landscapes, and the remaining only 21% to built-up area. With nearly 700 hyper-luxury residences to be housed in 11 residential towers soaring up to 32 floors, when completed in December 2029, Opus One will showcase New Chandigarh’s tallest residential towers.

Among the dozens of upmarket features and amenities promised in Opus One are:

  • All weather swimming pool
  • World class luxury spa
  • Outdoor gym
  • Host of sporting facilities
  • Retail plaza
  • Senior citizen-friendly zone
  • Multi-purpose party hall
  • EV charging stations
  • Dedicated car washing areas
  • Swipe card access to lobbies and lifts
  • Home automation
  • Emergency alarm and panic button in each residence
  • Butler on call
  • 24×7 ambulance service
  • 24×7 laundry service

For queries: 90889-90889

Livasa Hospital Mohali Crosses Milestone With 500+ Neuronavigation Surgeries

By
Sanjeev Kochhar
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Doctors claim this technology has become indispensable for treating brain tumours, complex spinal disorders, traumatic injuries and other high-risk neurosurgical conditions, enabling smaller incisions, reduced tissue disruption and quicker recovery

Livasa Hospitals, one of the largest chains of super-speciality hospitals in Punjab, with presence in five cities – Mohali, Amritsar, Hoshiarpur, Nawanshahr and Khanna, claims to have achieved a milestone by performing 500-plus navigation-guided neurosurgeries (also called neuronavigation surgeries) in its Mohali hospital.

Neuronavigation uses a computer-assisted system that provides surgeons real-time and three-dimensional guidance during brain and spine surgeries akin to a GPS. It uses pre-operative medical imaging like MRI and CT scans to help surgeons with greater accuracy in locating and removing tumours, placing screw, or performing biopsies.

It also helps surgeons precisely locate important structures, plan the safest path, and accurately track their instruments to minimize damage to healthy tissue. This enhances surgical accuracy, safety, and efficacy, enabling procedures on deep-seated lesions and supporting minimally invasive techniques.

Dr Vineet Saggar, Director – Neuro & Spine Surgery (middle), flanked on his right by Dr Ajay Singh, Consultant – Neurosurgery, and Sunil Kumar, Marketing Head, Livasa Hospital Mohali pose for a photograph at a media briefing in Chandigarh on Thursday (20.11.2025). PHOTO By: Livasa Hospital

Briefing media persons about the landmark achievement, Dr Vineet Saggar, Director – Neuro & Spine Surgery, and Dr Ajay Singh, Consultant – Neurosurgery, Livasa Hospital Mohali, explained how neuro-navigation works and why it has become an essential tool for modern neurosurgical practice.

They said unlike in conventional surgery in which the incision in the skull and brain is much bigger, in neuronavigation it is significantly smaller. Post-operation, the patient is usually discharged in a day or two, unlike in conventional surgery where the hospitalisation extends up to 10-12 days post-surgery.

The doctors asserted that this way the neuronavigation method, apart from being minimally invasive, more accurate, and safer with reduced collateral damage to healthy tissues, also proves less expensive, because every additional day of hospitalisation adds to the bill. The overall package of neuronavigation surgery comes to around Rs 3-4 lakh against Rs 10-12 lakh in case of conventional neurosurgery, they added.

Dr Saggar shared that the technology has become indispensable for treating brain tumours, complex spinal disorders, traumatic injuries and other high-risk neurosurgical conditions, enabling smaller incisions, reduced tissue disruption and quicker recovery.

Both surgeons emphasised that surpassing 500 cases is the result of a deeply coordinated effort across neurosurgery, anaesthesia, radiology, the operating theatre team, nursing units and critical care. They noted that every successful case reflects the dedication of specialists working together with a shared commitment to patient safety.

Benefits of neuronavigation

  • Increased precision:

Allows surgeons to target lesions and structures with greater accuracy, especially in complex or deep-seated areas.

  • Enhanced safety:

Helps surgeons avoid critical structures like nerves and arteries.

  • Minimally invasive surgery:

Supports smaller incisions and approaches, which can lead to reduced recovery time, less pain, and lower infection risk.

  • Improved planning:

Enables more accurate surgical path planning before and during the operation.

  • Real-time feedback:

Provides continuous information to the surgeon throughout the procedure, allowing him to  adjust as needed.

The team

The neuro team at Livasa Hospital Mohali is led by Dr Vineet Saggar, an experienced neurosurgeon specialising in complex brain and spine procedures, and Dr Ajay Singh, Consultant – Neurosurgery, known for his expertise in tumour surgery, trauma management and advanced spinal interventions. Together, the hospital claims they have built one of the region’s most trusted neurosurgical units, supported by modern technology and consistent protocol-based practice.

About

Livasa Hospital Mohali, a 230-bed tertiary care centre offering over 25 specialties, claims that it continues to strengthen its reputation as a regional hub for advanced brain and spine surgery, delivering accessible, high-quality care to patients across Chandigarh tricity and neighbouring states.

Chandigarh School Prodigy Nidhi Rana Among 5 Presented Rotary Young Achievers Award

By
Sanjeev Kochhar
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Chandigarh's school prodigy Nidhi Rana poses with the Rotary Young Achievers Award 2025, in New Delhi. PHOTOS By: Rotary International
Award presented at the Rotary Institute ‘Tejas – Wings of Change’ in New Delhi by Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo

Nidhi Rana, a Class XII science student of Pandit Mohan Lal SD Public School, Sector 32, Chandigarh and a member of Interact Club, one of Rotary International’s youth service programmes for ages 14-18 to develop leadership skills, has been honoured with the Rotary Young Achievers Award, only one of five youth to receive it pan India for 2025.

Nidhi and the other four received a prize of ₹1,00,000, citation and trophy from Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo at the Rotary Institute ‘Tejas – Wings of Change’ in Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, Dwarka, New Delhi last weekend for their exceptional contributions to innovation and community leadership.

According to Rotarian Abha Joshi Sharma, president of Rotary Club Chandigarh, out of 245 applicants, Nidhi made it to the top 5 awarded achievers pan India. Abha Joshi had forwarded Nidhi’s entry from among Interact members who applied for the awards.

In a social media post the PML SD Public School said school principal Monica Sharma, having given Nidhi the impetus to forward her name for the award, expressed immense exhilaration over her achievement.

Sharing further details, the Rotary Club Chandigarh president said Nidhi, an internationally recognised young entrepreneur, is the co-founder of StepTern, TetraCaps, and the EcoFlow Initiative, ventures spanning AI-powered education, circular-economy furniture design, and sustainable water engineering.

She has earned accolades at the Young Founders Summit and multiple national business and innovation competitions, including serving as a Biz-AI Judge at the Axom Youth Innovation Fest. The award-winning innovator is also a ML (machine learning) scholar, two-time Best Delegate at national MUNs (Model United Nations), and volunteer with organisations like Access Life, which supports cancer brave hearts, and Antigone, a youth-led non-profit organization that strives to work toward gender equality and women’s empowerment. ‎

The youth prodigy’s profile does not end there. She is a state-level graphic design competition winner, certified coder, and machine-learning practitioner trained under Stanford, Google, and Harvard programmes.

Her social impact work includes volunteering with Access Life and Antigone, where she also led fundraising initiatives. As Ex-Chartered Interact Club Vice-President, and founder of The Rhetoric League, she has redefined student leadership.

Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo presenting the Rotary Young Achievers Award to Chandigarh school prodigy Nidhi Rana in New Delhi.

Other Rotary Young Achievers awardees 2025

Akarshana Sathish, founder of ‘The Open Libraries,’ championed literacy by establishing 24 libraries to make books accessible to underserved communities.
Aneesha Narain, a Paul Harris Fellow, has been recognized for her multifaceted humanitarian service, including the impactful Project OGAAN.
Bhavini Bhargava, an international bestselling author whose evocative poetry collection, ‘Unheard,’ has garnered over 30 global awards.
Suhana Saini, a world-ranked Table Tennis prodigy, with multiple World Championship medals and achieving World No. 1 in U19 Girls Doubles.

Inspiring Change Maker awardees

Pushpa Priya — an IT professional and dedicated volunteer from Bengaluru who has served as a compassionate scribe for 1500+ visually impaired students
Dr. Aparna Deshmukh — founder of Abhamaya Old Age Home in Pune, where for over 15 years she has created a sanctuary of dignity and care for abandoned and destitute elders, nurturing more than 70 residents as her own family.
Rudra Prasad Mohapatra — former Junior Warrant Officer of the Indian Air Force, honoured for his continued service to society through veteran welfare, disaster relief, healthcare support, environmental conservation, and community empowerment.

31st Punjab Open Amateur Ladies Golf Championship Tees Off Tuesday

By
Sanjeev Kochhar
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Members of the organising committee of the 31st Punjab Open Amateur Ladies Golf Championship 2025 pose with the trophies at the Chandigarh Golf Club on Monday (17.11.2025). PHOTO By: LifeInChandigarh.com
100 amateur lady golfers to participate in three different handicap categories along with separate sections for junior and sub-junior girls
Organised by Ladies Section of Chandigarh Golf Club, in collaboration with the newest Chandigarh Golf League franchisee team GB Legends

Defending champion Hazel Chauhan will be among the leading amateur lady golfers of the country along with budding junior and sub-junior girls seen in action in the three-day 31st Punjab Open Ladies’ Amateur Golf Championship 2025 which tees off at the lush Chandigarh Golf Club course on Tuesday (18.11.2025).

Briefing media persons about the tournament on Monday, Lady Captain of the course Ashu Singh shared that 100 lady golfers from across the country have reported for registration today, the day earmarked for registrations and practice for outstation participants.

The championship had been divided into three handicap categories – 0-18 being the gold division, 19-25 the silver division and 26-30 the bronze division. There will also be separate categories for junior girls (under-18 years) and sub-junior girls (under-12). The cut will be applied at the end of the second day on Wednesday.

Apart from Chandigarh and other northern states, amateur lady golfers from Delhi NCR, and other major cities, including Pune, Bhubaneshwar and Bengaluru, will be seen in action in the championship, which is part of the Ladies’ Golf Tour and organised by the Ladies Section of the Chandigarh Golf Club, in collaboration with the newest Chandigarh Golf League franchisee team GB Legends.

The youngest participant in the championship is a 9-year-old. Binny Bath will catch eyeballs at 79 years young.

The ceremonial tee off will be performed at 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday by local lady golfer Heena Kang, who recently professional.

The organising committee members at the media briefing.

Ashu Singh informed that Punjab Open Ladies’ Golf Championship is among the biggest amateur ladies’ tournaments in North India. “It serves as an exceptional platform that nurtures and prepares aspiring women golfers to compete at both the national and international levels. Aditi Ashok, whose outstanding performance at the Tokyo Olympics brought immense pride to the nation, has also participated in this prestigious tournament in the past.

“Chandigarh continues to be a strong nursery for golfing talent, producing top IGU (Indian Golf Union) and world-ranked amateurs like Heena Kang, Ceerat Kang, Guntas Kaur Sandhu, Rebab Kahlon, Ojaswini Saraswat and Gairat Kahlon. Some of these amateurs led the national golfing circuit through 2022-2024 and represented the country multiple times in Japan, Australia and New Zealand,” she added.

GB Realty’s Luxury Project Opus One Enters Real Estate Hotspot New Chandigarh As Challenger

By
Sanjeev Kochhar
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PHOTOS By: GB Realty & LifeInChandigarh.com
First GMADA ‘Iconic Certified’ RERA approved project on 8.75 acres GMADA auctioned site in Ecocity 2
With Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Certification & prestigious Platinum Rating by GMADA
Sustainable luxury with 79% of the land parcel dedicated to green landscapes, and only 21% built-up
Close to 700 ultra-luxury 3,000 sq ft 3 BHK, 4,500 sq ft 4 BHK, and 5,500 sq ft 5 BHK residences in 11 residential towers, the tallest in New Chandigarh, soaring up to 32 floors
Residences to start from around Rs 3.5 Crore; Price per sq ft to be announced along with ‘lucrative’ payment plan on December 1, when bookings will officially open to customers
Heavy earthwork already under way at site within nine months of getting possession of the land parcel from GMADA in December 2024; possession to buyers promised by December 2029
Best in class in the region, Suryacon are the construction partners to the project
Four other GB Realty projects in the pipeline awaiting RERA approval
Promoter Gurinder Bhatti promises every GB Realty project will be a legacy, crafted with precision, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence

Real Estate companies are making a beeline for New Chandigarh, the latest hotspot for residential and commercial projects, with fresh developments being announced every quarter.

Most recent entrant into the arena is GB Realty, a unit of Optas Group, multi-nation conglomerate with interests in luxury hospitality, global student mobility, education, media, and infotainment.

Formally announcing in a media conference recently, the launch of GB Realty’s luxury residential project Opus One on GMADA (Greater Mohali Area Development Authority) auctioned 8.75 acres land parcel in Ecocity Two, New Chandigarh, GB Realty Chairman Gurinder Bhatti claimed that it is the first GMADA ‘Iconic Certified’ RERA approved project in New Chandigarh.

GB Realty Chairman Gurinder Bhatti officially announcing launch of the realtor’s luxury residential project Opus One in New Chandigarh. He is flanked by leading construction company Suryacon’s MD Rajesh Mittal (to his left) and GB Realty Director (Operations) Rohit Sethi.

Among other recognitions, Opus One has been awarded the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Certification and the prestigious Platinum Rating by GMADA.

Describing it as a sustainable luxury development, with 79% of the land parcel dedicated to green landscapes, and the remaining only 21% to built-up area, Bhatti shared that around 688 ultra-luxury 3,000 sq ft 3 BHK, 4,500 sq ft 4 BHK, and 5,500 sq ft 5 BHK residences will be housed in 11 residential towers, the tallest in New Chandigarh, soaring up to 32 floors.

“Commanding attention with its sculptural form, international partnerships and enduring design language, Opus One will redefine Chandigarh’s skyline,” the DB Realty chairman gushed, adding that “the landmark project will seamlessly integrate global design expertise, sustainable architecture, and timeless luxury.”

International partnerships

The lush outdoor environment is being sculpted by PLA, Thailand, the landscape designers behind The Oberoi Sukhvilas, and several global hospitality icons. The design features tranquil water bodies, a sculpted dune, and much more.

The principal architect, Tripat Girdhar of Arete Design Studio, Bhatti revealed, has envisioned the project as a modern-day sculpture. Each tower is designed with a ‘Dual Core’ layout, featuring just two apartments per floor.

Sharing more details, he said each of the 11 towers will house five elevators, including private lifts opening into individual foyers, underscoring the project’s bespoke luxury experience.

Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), Singapore, renowned for designing some of the world’s most iconic hospitality spaces, including The Ritz-Carlton among others, brings its mastery of form and emotion to Opus One’s interiors.

Similarly, Australian Lighting Design Partnership (ALDP), known for illuminating landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, also brings in its expertise.

Clubhouse at the heart

At the heart of the development will be a 60,000 sq. ft clubhouse. It will include an all-weather Swimming Pool with Jacuzzi, Piano Bar, Sports Bar, Fine Dining Restaurant, Banquet Hall, a high-end supermarket, Business Centre and more.

‘Iconic Certified’

Bhatti said the recognition of Opus One as New Chandigarh’s first GMADA ‘Iconic Certified’ & RERA approved residential complex “celebrates its innovative design, eco-conscious construction and environmental responsibility, representing the very best in modern, responsible living.”

Best in class in the region, Suryacon, are the construction partners to the project.

Bhatti was joined in the media conference by Suryacon MD Rajesh Mittal and GB Realty Director (Operations) Rohit Sethi.

Heavy excavation underway at site

During a visit to the site on Tuesday (12.11.2025), your own news portal LifeInChandigarh.com was witness to heavy machinery excavating the site for the foundations and basements. A massive, plush site office, with valet parking for visitors, and warm welcome by smartly attired staff and senior executives is reflective of the company’s promise of excellence.

The expanse of the Opus One site in New Chandigarh
Heavy excavating machinery at work for laying the foundations and constructing the basements at the site.
The expansive and slick site office

According to Bhatti, construction work has been taken up in right earnest within nine of the company getting possession of the land parcel from GMADA in December 2024. The starting price for the residences is around Rs 3.5 crore. Price per sq ft will be announced along with ‘lucrative’ payment plan on December 1, when bookings will also officially open to customers.

Possession to buyers has been promised in four years, by December 2029.

The location & landmarks around

The project abuts the main arterial road in New Chandigarh just ahead of Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital in Medicity, and Omaxe. At a stone’s throw is the popular Doon International School, a high school on 6.5 acres of land into its fourth academic year and populated with 700 students. Across the road are the gated towers of the MLA Flats.

The New Chandigarh campus of Doon International School
The gated MLA Flats
Omaxe real estate project
Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre

Diagonally opposite the Medicity is the New Chandigarh campus of prestigious Chandigarh school Strawberry Fields, and at a short distance, in Chandigarh’s Educity, is the Chandigarh campus of the famous SVKM’s NMIMS, a deemed to be university hosting premier graduate schools like School of Technology Management & Engineering, School of Law and School of Commerce.

Further down the road in Chandigarh is the renowned Post Graduate Institute for Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) and the reputed Panjab University.

Punjab’s Trident Group and PGTI Join Hands For Inaugural Trident Open At Chandigarh Golf Club

By
Sanjeev Kochhar
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Trident Group Chairman & Rajya Sabha MP Rajinder Gupta poses with the winner's trophy of the inaugural Trident Open golf tournament at the Chandigarh Golf Club on Saturday (08.11.2025). He is flanked by top professionals Yuvraj Sandhu (to his right) and Angad Cheema. PHOTO Credit: PGTI
Rs one crore prize purse up for grabs for 123 professionals and three amateurs

Close on the heels of the inaugural tournament of the faster format multi-city Indian Golf Premier League (IGPL) launched by legendary sixer-king Yuvraj Singh, the Chandigarh Golf Club will host the inaugural traditional format stroke-play Trident Open golf tournament on its 7000 yards-plus 18-hole par 72 course from November 11 to 14.

The tournament will be preceded by a Am-Am event on November 8 and a Pro-Am event on November 9.

With the inaugural Trident Open, Punjab’s renowned Trident Group, a business conglomerate and one of the leading players in home textiles in the country and international markets, has for the first time ventured into golf sponsorship. It is a collaboration with the Professional Golfers Tour of India (PGTI), the official sanctioning body of professional golf in the country, currently led by the legendary Kapil Dev.

From the Rs 100,00,000 prize purse, the winner will take away Rs 15,00,000, second placed Rs 10,00,000, third placed Rs 5,99,800, fourth placed Rs 4,99,800 and so on. The last placed finisher from among the 50 professionals who make the cut after 36 holes (at the end of Day 2) will also end up richer by Rs 76,700.

The star attraction in the tournament, featuring 123 professionals and three amateurs, will be the participation of leading Indian professionals, the likes of 2025 PGTI Ranking leader Yuvraj Sandhu (Chandigarh – accumulated PGTI Tour prize money so far in 2025 Rs 98,67,200), Arjun Prasad (Delhi – Rs 88,19,132), Shaurya Bhattacharya (Delhi – Rs 83,02,392), Angad Cheema (Mohali – Rs 63,78,909), Om Prakash Chouhan (Mhow – Rs 51,53,751) and Manu Gandas (Gurugram – Rs 47,80,113).

The prominent foreign names in the field include Sri Lankans N Thangaraja and K Prabagaran, Bangladeshis Jamal Hossain, Md Siddikur Rahman, Badal Hossain and Md Akbar Hossain, Americans Koichiro Sato and Derek Trofimczuk, Nepal’s Subash Tamang, Italy’s Federico Zucchetti and Uganda’s Joshua Seale.

Twenty-one-year-old Shubham Jaglan, former India No. 1 in the Junior Category, who has recently been playing professional golf in the United States, will be making his PGTI debut at the Trident Open.

Official t-shift and cap of Trident Open being unveiled

Besides Yuvraj Sandhu and Angad Cheema, the Chandigarh Tricity will be represented by the likes of Jairaj Singh Sandhu, Akshay Sharma, Ravi Kumar, Abhijit Singh Chadha, Brijesh Kumar, Raunil Kukar, Anant Singh Ahlawat, Amrit Lal, Chandarjeet Yadav, Brashwarpal Singh, Umed Kumar (PGTI NEXGEN Order of Merit champion), Vasu Sehgal and Vishav Pratap Singh Gill, to name a few.

The cut will be applied after the first 36 holes (at the end of the second day). The top 50 players and ties will make the halfway cut and continue to play for the remaining 36 holes over the last two days of the tournament.

Announcing the inaugural Trident Open, Rajinder Gupta, recently elected MP (Rajya Sabha) and Chairman, Trident Group; and Amandeep Singh Johl, star golfer of yesteryears and currently PGTI CEO, said, “We are delighted to partner for the inaugural Trident Open golf tournament, and especially honoured to host it at the Chandigarh Golf Club, which has a rich legacy of shaping champions who brought glory to the nation.”

Rajinder Gupta performs the ceremonial teeoff

Extending his warm welcome to all participants, Ravibir Singh, President, Chandigarh Golf Club, said, “We have partnered with PGTI over the years, and it has been a privilege to bring their prestigious tournaments to the City Beautiful. The Trident Open will provide a great opportunity for our members and golf fans in Chandigarh tricity to witness golf of the highest quality.”

While the Trident Group is the title sponsor for the Trident Open, other PGTI yearlong tour partners are Rolex, Amul, IndusInd Bank, Victorious Choice, Campa, Amrutanjan Electro Plus, Golf Plus Monthly and Golf Design India.

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