Latest news with #Sajan
India Today
02-07-2025
- Business
- India Today
The Dubai property boom among Indians: Is cheap real estate the reason?
For millions of Indians today, buying a house in a premium location feels like a distant dream. There was a time when owning a home was considered a basic, non-negotiable life goal. But now, even with a budget of Rs 1 crore, finding a decent property in a metro city feels like an uphill does that mean Indians' unachievable housing dreams in their own country is pushing them to look for properties in Dubai for better gains in the future?Cheaper than Mumbai, with a side of tax-freeadvertisementLet's bust the myth first: Dubai isn't always 'cheap'. As Morgan Owen, managing director of ANAROCK MENA, puts it, "Dubai's average price, around AED 1,600 per sq ft, is roughly Rs 37,500. That's on par with premium micro-markets in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru." So no, it's not about rock-bottom pricing. But averages don't tell the full story. As Anis Sajan, Vice Chairman of Danube Group, explains, homes in prime suburbs like Jumeirah Village Circle can go for as low as Rs 11,000–22,000 per sq ft, rates you'd be hard-pressed to find in Bandra or South Delhi. Add to that zero property tax, no capital gains tax, and rental yields of 7–11% (versus India's 2–4%), and the value proposition becomes Arpit Bansal, CEO of Sea Breeze Villas, agrees: 'For the same budget, buyers often get larger, fully finished homes in Dubai—with better amenities and infrastructure.'advertisementSo, is it cheaper? Not exactly. But it feels more rewarding, especially when the paperwork doesn't come with layers of grey areas and surprise stamp Indians are flockingIt's not just the ultra-rich buying Burj-view penthouses. A very different kind of Indian buyer is now in the families from Pune, business owners from Surat, and tech bros from Bengaluru are now eyeing Dubai not just for its skyline, but for its passport-adjacent perks.'The Golden Visa has been a game-changer,' says Sajan. 'Property over AED 2 million? You qualify. That means long-term residency and global mobility, no extra paperwork, no citizenship hustle.'Owen adds, 'Dubai's stable currency, no tax on rental income, and ease of doing business make it ideal for middle-class investors looking to diversify their portfolio.'For NRIs and Tier 2/3 Indians who have already maxed out on local property dreams, or been burned by them, Dubai offers something else: credibility, speed, and home? Rental goldmine? Lifestyle flex?There is not just one reason that can explain Indians' inclination towards Dubai want second homes, a luxury pad for that occasional getaway with shopping sprees and Michelin meals. Some want solid rental income. And others? They're making the full seeing everything, from end users buying suburban villas to investors flipping studio apartments,' says Sajan. 'There's demand at every level.'Owen agrees: 'Many buyers are driven by rental yields and capital appreciation. But we're also seeing lifestyle migration, especially among professionals relocating for work.'In short, it's no longer just about bragging rights. It's about practical returns, emotional comfort, and long-term Dubai is selling itself digitallyDubai isn't holding back in marketing itself as the most viable investment destination, and it's making the dream of homeownership feel easier than ever.'WhatsApp pitches, YouTube walk-throughs, influencer-led reels, they're all doing the heavy lifting,' says Bansal. 'Most of the initial interest now comes from these digital touchpoints.'Sajan says many clients have bought homes after watching just one virtual walkthrough. 'No site visit. No in-person agent meeting. Just clear, flashy, mobile-first content.'Owen adds that digital marketing has opened doors for buyers beyond metros. Thanks to webinars, 3D virtual tours, and fast-paced WhatsApp engagement, 'People in Tier-II and III cities are buying homes they've never physically stepped into, and doing it confidently.'Therefore, the ease of buying real estate chaos vs Dubai's clean gameadvertisementThis doesn't come from a point of maligning India and its real estate scene, but navigating Indian property deals can feel like a Game of Thrones subplot. Delays, hidden charges, shady title deeds, it's enough to make anyone consider renting forever. Not to mention how builders sometimes even compromise on the quality of raw materials, resulting in substandard that's not really the case in Dubai.'The Dubai Land Department's digitised systems, clear title deeds, and transparent pricing structures eliminate most of the anxiety,' says Owen. 'There's predictability, something Indian buyers crave.'Sajan backs that up, 'No stamp duty shocks. No ambiguous builder promises. Just fast possession timelines and regulated escrow systems.'Indians' inclination towards Dubai a phase?We can sometimes go big on trends, but this one doesn't seem like a fad.'This is a strategic lifestyle and financial move, not a knee-jerk reaction,' says Bansal. 'Unless there's a major policy shift, the demand is here to stay.'Owen calls it a structural shift. 'With Dubai evolving as a global hub and India liberalising its foreign exchange rules, this is part of a long-term investment trend,' he is more blunt, he says, 'Dubai's safe, tax-free, and high-return. Why wouldn't people invest?'- Ends advertisement
Mint
30-06-2025
- Business
- Mint
From Mumbai's alleys to Dubai's heights: The incredible rise of entrepreneur Anis Sajan
The vice-chairman of the Danube Group, is a shining example of the 'UAE dream', which has come to fruition because of three decades of hard work. From the cramped bylanes of a Ghatkopar chawl in Mumbai to the towering skyline of Dubai, Anis Sajan's journey is a testament to resilience, foresight, and an unwavering belief in building trust, one brick at a time. Today, as vice chairman of the Danube Group, Sajan leads one of the most recognised names in the Middle East's building materials and real estate sectors. But his beginnings were humble. 'I started selling decorative lights during Diwali in our neighbourhood. Earning ₹ 300 at the time felt like a fortune,' he recalls with a smile. His early years were shaped by struggle and sacrifice. After their father passed away in 1979, his elder brother Rizwan dropped out of college to support the family. He began by making box files and eventually became a salesman in Kuwait. After the Gulf War, he moved to Dubai in 1993 and laid the foundation for the Danube Group with a small trading business focussed on Building Materials. 'My brother is my mentor and my biggest inspiration,' says Sajan. 'But he didn't hand me anything on a plate. I had to earn every bit of my place.' And he did. Sajan quickly distinguished himself with a sharp instinct for spotting market gaps. One pivotal moment came with the introduction of shattaf (jet sprays) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is a basic necessity in the Arab and Asian cultures. Every household in these countries ensures that the first thing they install is a shattaf. 'I saw an opportunity and I capitalized on it,' he explains. This Shattaf gave wings to the brand Milano, which is now the heart of Danube Building Materials. Today, Danube sells over 100,000 jet sprays a month. It was a turning point that marked Sajan not just as a salesman but as a problem-solver. Today the company has evolved into a diversified empire, spanning sanitaryware, hardware, electricals, furniture, and real estate. This expansion mirrors the broader transformation of the UAE, where Danube has become a trusted name. For Sajan, however, success isn't just about scale. It's about relationships. 'In construction, things can go wrong. But when customers call, we pick up. Even if there's no immediate solution, we respond. That's how trust is built and maintained,' he explains. This is more than a philosophy. It is a personal ethic. 'My brother still visits project sites every Saturday, even in the 50-degree heat. That's the kind of leadership we believe in—hands-on and transparent.' The real estate market experienced major booms from 2001 to 2007 and again in the past five years, during which the building materials sector remained Sajan's stronghold, capturing 25% of the Middle East market. Danube, now the leading brand in building materials, has thrived in Dubai's free port environment, attracting global buyers with the flexibility of mixed container shipments. Danube Properties, the Group's real estate arm, has seen consistent growth, and India is becoming a core part of its strategy. Offices have opened in Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Gurugram, and Kochi. 'We've seen a sharp increase in Indian investors looking to Dubai not just as a holiday destination but as a second home and a smart investment hub,' says Sajan. The Group's standout 1% monthly payment plan has made luxury real estate accessible to thousands. 'It's not just a catchy idea—it's a serious financial solution. People don't just dream of owning property in Dubai now; they actually can,' he explains. Their projects reflect this vision: fully furnished, centrally located homes with over 50 lifestyle amenities, including doctor-on-call and nanny services. 'Our goal is to create value—emotional, functional, and financial. And this model has struck a real chord, especially with Indian professionals, NRIs, and entrepreneurs.' Danube's growth has also been driven by keen market insight. Sajan notes that today's buyers seek smart layouts, flexible payment models, and community-centric living spaces. The end-user segment is expanding, particularly among families. As new supply stabilises prices, the Dubai real estate market is expected to remain strong until at least Q4 of 2026. 'We're also seeing growing interest from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities in India. There's a sense of aspiration, and Dubai meets those aspirations with returns, security, and lifestyle.' Marketing has also been a cornerstone in Danube's success. 'We believe in visibility. From hoardings across Mumbai to branding on flights and major cricket events—if you're not seen, you're not sold,' Sajan says plainly. He adds, 'The campaign with Kartik Aaryan wasn't just marketing. Danube Hai Na was our way of telling Indian buyers: we've got you covered.' This bold marketing approach, combined with reliable execution, has created a brand that resonates across borders. Even with decades of experience behind him, Sajan shows no signs of slowing down. With both his sons now actively involved in the sanitary business—Azhar Sajan, founder of Casa Milano, catering to the luxury and elite segment, and Sahil Sajan, Director of Milano, focused on offering premium sanitary solutions to the masses, Danube is preparing for its next chapter. 'The journey is far from over,' he says. 'In fact, it's just beginning. The most important thing is to stay grounded, learn from every experience, and never, ever break the client's trust. That's how you build something that truly lasts.' 'We are also seeing growing interest from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities in India. There's a sense of aspiration, and Dubai meets those aspirations with returns, security, and lifestyle," said Anis Sajan, vice chairman of the Danube Group
Hindustan Times
28-06-2025
- Hindustan Times
Ludhiana: Notorious drug peddler arrested with 2.5 kg heroin
The Ludhiana Rural police on Friday arrested a drug peddler, identified as Gurpreet Singh alias Sajan, acting on a tip off and recovered 2.5 kg of heroin from his possession. Police said the accused was allegedly involved in smuggling heroin across the border and supplying it within various parts of Punjab. Upon search, police recovered 2.5 kg heroin, an empty kit bag, an electronic weighing scale, and a motorcycle from drug peddler's possession. (HT Photo) According to sub-inspector (SI) Gursewak Singh of Sidhwan Bet police station, he was on patrol duty and conducting 'suspicious-person' checking at the Kishanpura check post near Sidhwan Bet when he received a tip-off. The informer revealed that Gurpreet Singh alias Sajan, son of Lakhbir Singh and resident of Wadala Granthian village in Gurdaspur, is notorious for smuggling heroin on a large scale. He allegedly brings the drugs from across the border and supplies it to various locations across Punjab. The informer further disclosed that Gurpreet was on his way to Jagraon on the same day, carrying a substantial quantity of heroin. Acting promptly, the police apprehended the accused at the check post. Upon search, police recovered 2.5 kg heroin, an empty kit bag, an electronic weighing scale, and a motorcycle from his possession. Police said the accused was immediately taken into custody and a case was registered against him under sections 21, 25, 61, and 85 of the NDPS act at Sidhwan Bet police station. According to police records, Gurpreet Singh is a habitual offender. He had earlier been booked in Amritsar under sections 25, 54, and 59 of the Arms Act and sections 21, 25, 27A, and 29 of the IPC in May 2020. Bihar man held with 2.6kg opium, ₹ 2.5L The Ludhiana police commissionerate has arrested a drug smuggler with 2.6kg of opium and ₹ 2.5 lakh from his possession. The accused has been identified as Jawahar Prasad, a resident of Sitamarhi, Bihar. According to ASI Baljeet Singh of Sarabha Nagar police station, the arrest was made on June 27 during a routine patrol conducted by the special cell near the canal bridge at Jhamat village, Ludhiana. During this, the police found the movement of accused suspicious and apprehended him for interrogation. Upon searching him, the police recovered the contraband from his backpack, and ₹ 2.5 lakh in cash believed to be drug money. Following the recovery, a case has been registered at Sarabha Nagar Police Station under Sections 18-C, 61 and 85 of the NDPS Act. Initial investigation revealed that the accused had procured the opium from outside Ludhiana at a cheaper rate and was waiting to sell it to his customers when he was nabbed by the police. Police asserted that the accused has been presented in court and is on a police remand. Further investigation is underway to trace the buyers and others linked to the smuggling network.
Time of India
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Asha Parekh once opened up about never getting married or having children: She believed that it wasn't meant to be; said 'I have absolutely no regrets'
Asha Parekh, the iconic actress of Hindi cinema's golden era, once shared her reflections on remaining single and embracing solitude. Despite experiencing heartbreak and opportunities for marriage, she believes it wasn't her destiny. Parekh emphasizes that true beauty radiates from inner happiness and values the guidance of close friends like Waheeda Rehman. She ruled the silver screen through the golden era of Hindi cinema, and off-screen, lived life on her own terms. The legendary actress Asha Parekh once opened up about never marrying, choosing solitude, and finding happiness within. In a recent conversation with Harper's Bazaar India, where she appeared on the cover, Parekh opened up about her decision to remain single and whether she harbours any regrets. She reflected on this chapter, saying that while she would have loved to get married and have children, it simply wasn't in her destiny. Still, she emphasized that she holds no regrets about the path she chose. Reflecting on the connection between inner joy and outer beauty, she shared that she firmly believes true beauty comes from within. According to her, happiness naturally radiates through a person's appearance, while unhappiness inevitably shows on one's face. The veteran star also spoke about the people she relies on for guidance. She mentioned that she often turns to close friend and holds veteran actress Waheeda Rehman in high regard. Parekh added that while she values Waheeda ji's opinion deeply, she's open to good advice from anyone, regardless of the source. Asha Parekh has enjoyed a remarkable career in Hindi cinema, with classics like Sajan, Rajni, Kati Patang, and others still cherished by audiences today. Her enduring legacy continues to inspire generations of film lovers.
The Hindu
25-06-2025
- Sport
- The Hindu
Sports has to be a lifestyle, not just a result-oriented model: Sajan Prakash
From contemplating quitting the sport to making a comeback to revive his career, 31-year-old Olympian swimmer Sajan Prakash, a multiple South Asian Games and National Games gold medallist, is planning to pace up slowly and steadily in the run-up to the Asian championships in October and the Asian Games next year. Competing in the 78th National aquatics championships at the Kalinga Stadium Aquatic Centre here, Sajan spoke to The Hindu about his struggles, his future and the overall state of swimming in India. Excerpts: How has your form been of late and what are the championships you are looking at in the next six months? After the Olympic qualification, I took a six-month break. I was just deciding whether to swim any more. I barely trained for a month and had a lot of travel before the National Games. I made some kind of progress in the National Games without training. I decided just to continue and trained at the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS) in Vijayanagar. I started training in February. I went for the Mare Nostrum Tour (Barcelona) in May. And then I made good progress and prepared for this competition. I am going to the World Police Games, which is right after the Nationals. And then the World championships in Singapore and the Asian championships in Ahmedabad this year (are there). So that's what I am focusing on. Are you not thinking about 2026 (which has the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games)? 2026 is the ultimate target, (a) long-term (one). Three competitions are lined up after this. The Asian championships is the main one in Gujarat. So, I will focus on that. That will be giving me an idea of how close I am to a medal in the Asian Games next year. What will be the key events for you in the Asian Games? 200m butterfly is the main event (for me). I have been swimming 200m butterfly since 2012. In 2016, I went to the Olympics in 200m butterfly. In 2024, I tried to qualify in the 200m butterfly. What are your targets and how do you approach it? I want to get back to my best time – 1:56.38. If I get that time or closer to that, I might win a medal in the Asian championships. And from there, I need to work very specifically on the details where I am lacking. I just don't want to do too many general things any more. So, 1:56 is my target for now at the Asian championships. In the Asian Games, I have to swim 1:55 to get a medal. Why are you just looking at events in the short-term, like three months, six months, instead of looking forward to a year or two? I have been swimming for a long time but that's okay. I don't see it as the end of my career. I just want to give my best every time I go there. It's a process, so I will just enjoy the process for now. The Asian Games is the last I kept for. But let's see if I can go till there or beyond that. What are the challenges when you have been swimming for so long? One is the injury (especially when) we don't have a long-term athlete development programme here. Right now the Federation (Swimming Federation of India) is building one. We somehow survived. We swam for the job first and then to make our life better. Ultimately, we made it to the Olympics and then started to progress and proceeded professionally. I don't want to give so many answers to myself because it adds pressure. I will just enjoy the process for now and see where it takes me. Among the challenges, one is the injury. Another one is the support from anybody (sponsor). We really need to ask for money from different people to fund our training and competitions. That's a huge challenge. I was training in Dubai and I paid a lot in the last four years. Go Sports was one support, but now IIS is taking care of it. Wherever we want to go for a training camp, we stay there at the centre and train. So that's a big support for now. For a layman, swimming may look like an inexpensive sport, but actually it is not so. So how do you address the issue? The development of the sport is not there. For everyone, it's an expensive sport. Buying a swimsuit, having so much daily expenses for the nutrition, for the swimming club or the day to day activities, supplements or whatsoever, it is very expensive. I survived through it. When I started professionally, I didn't have enough money. My mother supported me. And then slowly when I started performing somewhere or the other, I got funds. All the cash awards which I got from Kerala for the National Games (performances) mainly supported my swimming. You are a National Games hero... The National Games money helped a lot for training days. I wish more corporates come into swimming and look at its development. Because it's a huge sport where the potential for medals is so much. Nobody looks at it. There should be some coaches' development programmes, which we are doing. But if we need to match the world standards, we need to do three times more. We are going to host the Asian championships for the first time. How do you look at it? And how is it going to help Indian swimmers? Any competition coming home is an added advantage for us. People, federation or the Government take it a little more seriously. From that period, I think, the seriousness needs to carry on till the major games. We need to have a long-term plan, we need to have a national centre. I believe they are doing it. We need to all train together and work consistently. We need to address all that and put everyone in one centre and train. You said you thought of quitting sometime back. Why was it? One was injury. And I was also unable to support my swimming. It costs me a lot when I want to go train somewhere outside. And funding is a huge problem. After a certain point or age, you don't get so much support from the Government also. We are not included in any scheme in Khelo India or anything. Or Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). So it is a challenge for us. We survive somehow, that's all. What about the talent in India? The talent is there, but it is about who nurtures it and how we nurture it. We need more specificity and individualisation on what we are swimming, how we are swimming, monitor the training plans, and see the progress. We need to address their weaknesses individually because everybody has their strengths and weaknesses. So we need to address what is negative and make them positive. Those things come from having a professional on the board. Those things will bring about a change. What about coaching? Do you think there are enough good coaches? Our coaches work really hard. But we need to be updated on the current scientific support. It is not rocket science. We can't take challenges from the USA and address them in India. We need to address the problem which is here. That's why I said we need to have a National training centre. We must consistently train at one place so that we can have a track record of what is and what is not happening. Nutrition has to change here. Because we are a carb-eating nation and we cannot keep doing this. If we need to change something, we need to really change everything. The mindset has to change. People are not very realistic with sports. Even parents look at it as a business — invest in something. If I train for one month, what am I getting from that? Sports has to be a lifestyle. Not just a result-oriented model.
