MAM
“We offer tailored assistance for growth in the creative and VFX sector”: London & Partners’ Hemin Bharucha
Mumbai: Standing as the driving force behind London’s economic expansion and tourism appeal, London & Partners embodies a commitment to sustainable growth aligned with the Mayor’s Economic Development Strategy. Through strategic investments, trade initiatives, and innovation, they prioritize “good growth” for the city, fostering prosperity for its residents. With a focus on attracting visitors and events, they elevate London’s global reputation and cultivate profitable partnerships for continued reinvestment. As they promote London to key markets such as North America, China, Europe, and India, their strategic endeavors fuel impactful economic development.
Indiantelevision.com caught up with London & Partners country director Hemin Bharucha to talk about their creative delegation to India, collaboration opportunities and much more…
Edited Excerpts:
On the specific goals that London & Partners hopes to achieve through their creative delegation to India
The creative trade mission aims to bring together three leading creative tech ecosystems in London, Chennai, and Mumbai. Our delegates from London will take advantage of this opportunity to showcase their innovative solutions and foster new partnerships with significant industry players and corporate partners in these markets.
We offer tailored assistance to facilitate the growth of businesses by providing crucial market insights, business support services, and networking opportunities specifically within the creative and VFX sector. Utilising our extensive network of partners and stakeholders, we assist Indian companies in navigating the complexities of the London market, empowering them to establish strategic relationships and expand their international footprint. Furthermore, our comprehensive support extends beyond initial introductions, as we continue to provide ongoing guidance and assistance to ensure the sustained success and growth of our partners. Through our dedicated efforts, we aim to foster a thriving ecosystem of collaboration and innovation within the creative tech industry, driving positive impact and opportunities for all involved stakeholders.
On the key activities planned for the delegation during their visit to India
The visit will feature the participation of London-based companies representing various sectors. The delegation’s agenda comprises a diverse array of engaging activities, including studio visits, panel discussions, knowledge-sharing sessions, and exclusive business speed networking events. This mission seeks to unite three prominent creative tech ecosystems from London, Chennai, and Mumbai.
On London and Partners envisioning collaboration opportunities between the London-based companies and their counterparts in India’s creative sectors
Our organisation is dedicated to assisting businesses in high-growth sectors, particularly the creative and VFX industries, by facilitating their expansion and scaling endeavors. Furthermore, London and Partners offer specialised support and resources crafted to empower small and micro businesses in London, nurturing an environment conducive to their success. London’s esteemed global reputation underscores its pivotal role in fostering overseas economic growth through the establishment of partnerships and profitable ventures. Our goal is to optimise our impact and efficiently scale initiatives, thereby fostering a robust and dynamic business ecosystem for Indian creative and VFX companies.
In doing so, we aim to foster a thriving community of innovation and collaboration, where businesses can flourish and achieve their full potential. Through strategic partnerships and tailored support, we endeavor to drive sustainable growth and create lasting value for all stakeholders involved.
On the strategies being undertaken to leverage India’s large consumer base and its readiness to experiment with technology in the media, advertising, gaming, and entertainment sectors
Our organisation is executing a multifaceted strategy to capitalise on India’s extensive consumer base and its receptiveness to technological experimentation within the media, advertising, gaming, and entertainment sectors. This strategy encompasses conducting market research, fostering collaborations, investing in technology-driven innovations, and actively participating in industry events. These efforts include exploring advancements in augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and other emerging technologies to enhance user engagement.
Through these strategic initiatives, we aim to harness India’s vast consumer base and its enthusiasm for technological innovation in these dynamic sectors. By aligning with established companies in the UK market, Indian companies gain valuable insights, cultural understanding, and opportunities for expanding their business.
On London and Partners perception of the current state of India’s creative economy, considering its recent downturn during COVID-19
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the creative industry has experienced substantial changes. Digital transformation has become increasingly essential, with virtual events and online platforms gaining significant traction. In alignment with the sector vision outlined in the previous year, the UK government aims to bolster the expansion of the creative industries by investing £50 billion and creating one million new jobs in creative vocations by 2030.
Brands
Maharashtra panel orders Lodha to refund Rs 5 crore to homebuyers
Consumer court flags unfair practices in long-running property dispute case
MUMBAI: In a sharp rebuke to one of India’s biggest real estate players, the Maharashtra State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has directed Macrotech Developers to refund nearly Rs 5 crore to a senior citizen couple, Uttam and Anindita Chatterjee. The ruling, delivered on March 13, 2026, calls out the developer for “deficiency in service” and “unfair trade practices”, bringing closure to a dispute that has stretched over a decade.
The case traces back to 2015, when the couple booked a 3-BHK flat at World Towers in Lower Parel for Rs 12.22 crore, with possession promised within a year. What followed was a series of changes that complicated matters. After deciding to exit the project, they were persuaded to shift to a 4-BHK in another development priced at Rs 8 crore, with delivery scheduled for 2018. However, within months, the price was allegedly increased to Rs 10 crore. After demonetisation reshaped the market, similar flats were reportedly being offered at lower prices, but the couple were not given the benefit.
Despite paying over Rs 2.83 crore, the couple neither received possession nor clarity. Instead, in 2018, the developer unilaterally cancelled the booking, retained part of the amount as earnest money, and argued that the buyers were investors rather than consumers. The commission rejected this claim, observing that casual references to “investment” do not take away consumer rights when the purchase intent is residential.
The bench also held that the developer could not penalise buyers for payment delays while failing to meet its own delivery commitments. It noted the lack of formal documentation for revised terms and termed the prolonged retention of funds without delivering a home as exploitative.
As part of its order, the commission directed the developer to refund Rs 2.83 crore paid by the couple, along with interest at 10 per cent per annum, amounting to around Rs 2.12 crore. In addition, Rs 1 lakh has been awarded for mental agony and Rs 50,000 towards litigation costs, taking the total payout to over Rs 5 crore. The developer has been asked to comply within two months.
For now, the ruling serves as a reminder that in real estate, shifting terms and delayed promises can carry a significant cost.
