:root{
  --wine:#4B2C82;
  --wine-2:#37205F;
  --gold:#F15A29;
  --gold-2:#FF7A3D;
  --ink:#211B2B;
  --muted:#6F6878;
  --cream:#F8F6FB;
  --white:#fff;
  --line:#E7E1EF;
  --radius:24px;
  --shadow:0 24px 70px rgba(75,44,130,.14);
  --shadow-soft:0 14px 36px rgba(75,44,130,.08);
}
*{box-sizing:border-box;margin:0;padding:0}
html{scroll-behavior:smooth}
body{font-family:'Manrope',Arial,sans-serif;color:var(--ink);background:var(--white);line-height:1.65;-webkit-font-smoothing:antialiased;overflow-x:hidden}
a{color:inherit;text-decoration:none}
button,input,select,textarea{font:inherit}
img{max-width:100%}
.container{width:min(1220px,calc(100% - 44px));margin-inline:auto}
.section-pad{padding:104px 0}
.mb-3{margin-bottom:16px}.text-slate{color:var(--muted)}.text-caption{font-size:11px;opacity:.82}
.icon-sm{width:16px;height:16px}.icon-xs{width:12px;height:12px}.icon-accent,.icon-accent-sm,.icon-amber,.icon-green,.icon-contact{color:var(--wine)}
.icon-accent{width:18px;height:18px}.icon-accent-sm{width:15px;height:15px}.icon-amber,.icon-green{width:16px;height:16px}.icon-contact{width:24px;height:24px}.icon-footer,.icon-footer-map{width:16px;height:16px;flex-shrink:0}.icon-footer-map{margin-top:3px}

/* Header */
.site-header{position:sticky;top:0;z-index:100;background:rgba(255,255,255,.94);backdrop-filter:blur(16px);border-bottom:1px solid var(--line)}
.nav-wrap{height:78px;display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:space-between;gap:24px}
.brand-group{display:flex;flex-direction:column}.brand-logo-text{font-size:20px;font-weight:800;letter-spacing:-.03em;color:var(--wine)}.brand-sub{font-size:9px;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:.12em;color:var(--muted);font-weight:700}
.nav-links{display:flex;align-items:center;gap:28px;font-size:13px;font-weight:700}.nav-links a{position:relative}.nav-links a:after{content:"";position:absolute;left:0;bottom:-7px;width:0;height:2px;background:var(--gold);transition:.28s}.nav-links a:hover:after{width:100%}
.nav-actions{display:flex;align-items:center;gap:18px}.nav-phone{display:flex;align-items:center;gap:7px;font-size:13px;font-weight:700;color:var(--wine)}

/* Buttons */
.btn{display:inline-flex;align-items:center;justify-content:center;gap:8px;min-height:50px;padding:12px 22px;border-radius:13px;font-size:14px;font-weight:800;border:1px solid transparent;cursor:pointer;transition:transform .25s ease,box-shadow .25s ease,background .25s ease,border-color .25s ease;position:relative;overflow:hidden}
.btn:after{content:"";position:absolute;inset:-60% auto -60% -35%;width:24%;transform:rotate(20deg);background:rgba(255,255,255,.32);transition:left .45s ease}.btn:hover:after{left:120%}.btn:hover{transform:translateY(-3px)}
.btn-sm{min-height:42px;padding:9px 17px;font-size:12px}.btn-block{width:100%}.btn-nowrap{white-space:nowrap}.btn-dark,.btn-accent{background:var(--wine);color:var(--white);box-shadow:0 12px 28px rgba(75,44,130,.18)}.btn-dark:hover,.btn-accent:hover{background:var(--wine-2);box-shadow:0 18px 34px rgba(75,44,130,.24)}
.btn-outline{border-color:var(--line);background:var(--white);color:var(--wine)}.btn-outline:hover{border-color:var(--wine);box-shadow:var(--shadow-soft)}.btn-outline-white{border-color:rgba(255,255,255,.45);color:var(--white);background:transparent}.btn-outline-white:hover{border-color:var(--gold);color:var(--gold)}

/* HERO — Manrope + NMIMS/Edpyramid colours only */
.hero-section{position:relative;min-height:700px;display:flex;align-items:center;overflow:hidden;background:var(--cream);isolation:isolate}
.hero-section:before{content:"";position:absolute;inset:0;background:linear-gradient(90deg,var(--cream) 0%,var(--cream) 50%,rgba(248,246,251,.78) 64%,rgba(248,246,251,.18) 100%);z-index:-1}
.hero-section:after{content:"";position:absolute;right:0;top:0;width:52%;height:100%;background:linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(248,246,251,.2),rgba(75,44,130,.08)),url('https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1523240795612-9a054b0db644?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1600&q=88') center/cover no-repeat;z-index:-2}
.hero-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:1.04fr .96fr;gap:68px;align-items:center;padding:72px 0 78px}
.hero-content{position:relative;z-index:2;max-width:660px;padding:12px 0}
.badge-partner{display:inline-flex;align-items:center;gap:8px;padding:8px 13px;border:1px solid var(--line);background:var(--white);color:var(--wine);border-radius:999px;font-size:10px;font-weight:800;letter-spacing:.12em;text-transform:uppercase;margin-bottom:23px;box-shadow:0 8px 22px rgba(75,44,130,.05)}
.hero-heading{font-family:'Manrope',Arial,sans-serif;font-size:clamp(48px,5.15vw,76px);line-height:.98;letter-spacing:-.055em;font-weight:800;color:var(--ink);margin-bottom:24px;max-width:680px}.hero-heading em{font-family:inherit;font-style:normal;color:var(--wine);position:relative}.hero-heading em:after{content:"";position:absolute;left:0;right:4%;bottom:-4px;height:8px;background:var(--gold);border-radius:99px;z-index:-1}
.hero-desc{font-size:17px;line-height:1.75;color:var(--muted);max-width:580px;margin-bottom:30px;font-weight:500}.hero-actions{display:flex;gap:13px;flex-wrap:wrap;margin-bottom:38px}
.trust-metrics{display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(3,1fr);max-width:560px;border-top:1px solid var(--line);padding-top:26px}.metric-item{padding-right:22px}.metric-item+.metric-item{border-left:1px solid var(--line);padding-left:24px}.metric-item strong{font-size:29px;line-height:1;font-weight:800;color:var(--wine);display:block;letter-spacing:-.04em}.metric-item span{font-size:10px;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:.07em;color:var(--muted);font-weight:700;margin-top:7px;display:block}
.hero-media-wrap{position:relative;min-height:540px;display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:flex-end;perspective:1200px}
.hero-main-img{width:min(100%,500px);height:520px;object-fit:cover;border-radius:30px;border:8px solid var(--white);box-shadow:0 34px 80px rgba(75,44,130,.2);display:block;transition:transform .55s ease,box-shadow .55s ease}.hero-media-wrap:hover .hero-main-img{transform:translateY(-7px) scale(1.012);box-shadow:0 44px 95px rgba(75,44,130,.25)}
.hero-media-wrap:before{content:"";position:absolute;width:260px;height:260px;border-radius:50%;background:var(--gold);right:-72px;top:-26px;opacity:.58;z-index:-1}.hero-media-wrap:after{content:"";position:absolute;width:115px;height:115px;border:18px solid var(--wine);border-radius:50%;left:6px;bottom:8px;opacity:.08;z-index:-1}
.hero-floating-card,.hero-pill{position:absolute;background:var(--white);border:1px solid var(--line);box-shadow:var(--shadow-soft);display:flex;align-items:center;z-index:3;transition:transform .3s ease,box-shadow .3s ease}.hero-floating-card:hover,.hero-pill:hover{transform:translateY(-5px);box-shadow:var(--shadow)}
.hero-floating-card{top:24px;left:4px;padding:13px 16px;border-radius:15px;color:var(--wine);font-size:11px;gap:10px}.hero-floating-card strong{font-size:10px;letter-spacing:.08em}.hero-pill{padding:11px 15px;border-radius:999px;font-size:11px;font-weight:800;color:var(--wine);gap:7px}.hero-pill-one{left:-20px;bottom:86px}.hero-pill-two{right:-14px;bottom:28px;background:var(--gold);border-color:var(--gold)}

/* Proof */
.proof-strip{background:var(--wine);color:var(--white);border:0}.proof-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(4,1fr)}.proof-card{padding:34px 28px;border-right:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.14);transition:background .25s,transform .25s}.proof-card:last-child{border:0}.proof-card:hover{background:var(--wine-2);transform:translateY(-3px)}.proof-header{display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:space-between;margin-bottom:12px}.proof-num{font-size:10px;font-weight:800;letter-spacing:.12em;color:var(--gold)}.proof-card .icon-accent{color:var(--gold)}.proof-card h4{font-size:15px;margin-bottom:6px}.proof-card p{font-size:12px;color:var(--line);line-height:1.55}

/* Shared typography */
.eyebrow{font-size:10px;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:.14em;font-weight:800;color:var(--wine);margin-bottom:13px;display:block}.section-title,.quote-title,.process-center-head h2,.contact-info-col h2,.banner-title,.journey-title,.program-card h3{font-family:'Manrope',Arial,sans-serif}.section-title{font-size:clamp(36px,4vw,52px);line-height:1.06;letter-spacing:-.045em;font-weight:800;color:var(--ink);max-width:720px}.section-subtitle{font-size:14px;color:var(--muted);max-width:390px;line-height:1.75}.section-header-split{display:flex;justify-content:space-between;align-items:flex-end;gap:40px;margin-bottom:48px}

/* Programs */
#programs{background:var(--white)}.programs-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(3,1fr);gap:22px}.program-card{background:var(--white);border:1px solid var(--line);border-radius:22px;padding:32px;display:flex;flex-direction:column;position:relative;transition:transform .3s ease,box-shadow .3s ease,border-color .3s ease;overflow:hidden}.program-card:before{content:"";position:absolute;left:0;top:0;width:100%;height:5px;background:var(--wine);transform:scaleX(.16);transform-origin:left;transition:.35s}.program-card:hover{transform:translateY(-8px);box-shadow:var(--shadow);border-color:var(--gold)}.program-card:hover:before{transform:scaleX(1)}.program-card.featured{background:var(--cream);border-color:var(--gold)}.featured-tag{position:absolute;top:0;right:0;background:var(--gold);color:var(--wine);font-size:9px;font-weight:800;padding:8px 12px;border-radius:0 21px 0 13px;letter-spacing:.08em}.card-meta{display:flex;justify-content:space-between;align-items:center;margin-bottom:18px;font-size:11px;font-weight:700}.meta-tag{background:var(--cream);padding:5px 9px;border-radius:7px;color:var(--wine)}.meta-tag-highlight{background:var(--gold);color:var(--wine)}.card-duration{color:var(--muted)}.program-card h3{font-size:22px;line-height:1.2;letter-spacing:-.025em;color:var(--wine);margin-bottom:13px;font-weight:800}.program-desc{font-size:13px;color:var(--muted);margin-bottom:24px;min-height:68px}.card-features{list-style:none;margin-bottom:28px;flex-grow:1}.card-features li{font-size:12px;margin-bottom:10px;display:flex;align-items:center;gap:8px}.card-action{margin-top:auto}.link-arrow,.link-brand{font-size:13px;font-weight:800;color:var(--wine);display:inline-flex;align-items:center;gap:6px}.link-arrow:hover,.link-brand:hover{color:var(--wine-2)}

/* Journey band */
.journey-band{background:var(--cream);border-block:1px solid var(--line);padding:48px 0}.journey-inner{display:flex;justify-content:space-between;align-items:center;gap:34px}.journey-kicker{font-size:10px;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:.14em;color:var(--wine);font-weight:800;display:block;margin-bottom:5px}.journey-title{font-size:27px;line-height:1.2;font-weight:800;color:var(--ink)}.journey-steps{display:flex;align-items:center;gap:25px}.step-item{display:flex;align-items:center;gap:10px;font-size:13px}.step-num{font-size:14px;font-weight:800;color:var(--wine)}.step-divider{width:15px;height:15px;color:var(--muted)}

/* Why */
#why-nmims{background:var(--cream)}.why-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:.92fr 1.08fr;gap:70px;align-items:center}.why-campus-img{width:100%;height:520px;object-fit:cover;border-radius:30px;box-shadow:var(--shadow);transition:transform .5s}.why-campus-img:hover{transform:scale(1.012)}.text-lead-desc,.text-body-desc{color:var(--muted);font-size:14px;line-height:1.75}.why-benefits{display:grid;grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr;gap:15px;margin:30px 0 34px}.benefit-item{background:var(--white);padding:21px;border-radius:18px;border:1px solid var(--line);transition:.3s}.benefit-item:hover{transform:translateY(-5px);border-color:var(--gold);box-shadow:var(--shadow-soft)}.benefit-item h5{font-size:14px;font-weight:800;color:var(--wine);margin-bottom:7px;display:flex;align-items:center;gap:8px}.benefit-item p{font-size:12px;color:var(--muted);line-height:1.55}

/* About */
.about-section{background:var(--white)}.about-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:1.05fr .95fr;gap:70px;align-items:center}.quote-title{font-size:clamp(34px,3.5vw,48px);line-height:1.12;letter-spacing:-.04em;color:var(--ink);margin-bottom:22px;font-weight:800}.about-perks{display:grid;grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr;gap:14px;margin:28px 0}.perk{display:flex;align-items:center;gap:8px;font-size:13px;font-weight:700}.perk i{color:var(--wine);width:18px;height:18px}.counselor-frame{position:relative}.counselor-img{width:100%;height:500px;object-fit:cover;border-radius:30px;box-shadow:var(--shadow)}.counselor-tag{position:absolute;left:22px;right:22px;bottom:22px;background:var(--white);padding:14px 18px;border-radius:14px;box-shadow:var(--shadow-soft);display:flex;justify-content:space-between;align-items:center}.counselor-name{font-size:13px;color:var(--wine);display:block}.counselor-role{color:var(--muted);font-size:10px}

/* Process */
.process-center-head{text-align:center;margin-bottom:52px}.process-center-head h2{font-size:clamp(36px,4vw,50px);letter-spacing:-.04em;color:var(--ink);font-weight:800}.text-subtitle-center{color:var(--muted);font-size:14px;margin-top:8px}.process-steps-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(4,1fr);gap:18px}.process-step-card{background:var(--white);border:1px solid var(--line);border-radius:20px;padding:28px 24px;transition:.3s}.process-step-card:hover{transform:translateY(-6px);border-color:var(--gold);box-shadow:var(--shadow-soft)}.process-step-card .num{font-size:11px;font-weight:800;color:var(--wine);margin-bottom:13px;display:block}.process-step-card h4{font-size:17px;font-weight:800;color:var(--wine);margin-bottom:8px}.process-step-card p{font-size:12px;color:var(--muted);line-height:1.6}.stage-tag{font-size:9px;text-transform:uppercase;color:var(--muted);margin-top:16px;display:block;font-weight:800;letter-spacing:.08em}

/* Testimonials */
.testimonials-section{background:var(--cream);border-top:1px solid var(--line)}.stories-header{display:flex;justify-content:space-between;align-items:flex-end;gap:30px}.global-rating{font-size:13px;font-weight:800;color:var(--wine)}.global-rating span{color:var(--muted);font-weight:600}.testimonials-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(3,1fr);gap:22px;margin-top:38px}.testimonial-card{background:var(--white);border:1px solid var(--line);border-radius:20px;padding:30px 26px;display:flex;flex-direction:column;justify-content:space-between;transition:.3s}.testimonial-card:hover{transform:translateY(-6px);box-shadow:var(--shadow-soft);border-color:var(--gold)}.stars{color:var(--wine);margin-bottom:14px;letter-spacing:2px}.testimonial-text{font-size:13px;line-height:1.75;color:var(--ink);margin-bottom:22px}.author-info{display:flex;align-items:center;gap:11px}.author-avatar{width:40px;height:40px;border-radius:50%;background:var(--wine);color:var(--white);display:grid;place-items:center;font-size:12px;font-weight:800}.avatar-accent{background:var(--gold);color:var(--wine)}.author-name{font-size:12px;color:var(--wine);display:block}.author-role{font-size:10px;color:var(--muted)}
.mid-banner{background:var(--wine);color:var(--white);padding:46px;border-radius:24px;display:flex;justify-content:space-between;align-items:center;gap:30px;margin-top:72px;box-shadow:var(--shadow)}.banner-kicker{font-size:9px;letter-spacing:.13em;color:var(--gold);font-weight:800;text-transform:uppercase}.banner-title{font-size:31px;line-height:1.2;margin-top:4px;font-weight:800}.banner-desc{color:var(--line);font-size:12px;margin-top:7px}

/* Contact */
#enquiry{background:var(--white)}.contact-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:.92fr 1.08fr;gap:64px;align-items:flex-start}.contact-info-col h2{font-size:clamp(36px,4vw,50px);line-height:1.08;letter-spacing:-.04em;color:var(--ink);margin-bottom:16px;font-weight:800}.contact-desc{color:var(--muted);font-size:14px;margin-top:10px}.contact-box{background:var(--cream);border:1px solid var(--line);border-radius:16px;padding:18px;margin-top:18px;display:flex;align-items:center;gap:14px;transition:.3s}.contact-box:hover{transform:translateX(5px);border-color:var(--gold)}.contact-box-label{color:var(--muted);text-transform:uppercase;font-size:9px;font-weight:800}.contact-box-val{font-size:14px;font-weight:800;color:var(--wine)}.contact-checkmarks{list-style:none;margin-top:26px;font-size:12px;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:9px}.form-wrapper{background:var(--cream);border:1px solid var(--line);border-radius:24px;padding:38px;box-shadow:var(--shadow-soft)}.form-wrapper h3{font-size:21px;font-weight:800;color:var(--wine);margin-bottom:6px}.form-subtitle{font-size:12px;color:var(--muted);margin-bottom:25px}.form-row{display:grid;grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr;gap:14px}.form-group{margin-bottom:14px}.form-group label{display:block;font-size:10px;font-weight:800;color:var(--wine);margin-bottom:6px}.form-control{width:100%;padding:12px 13px;border:1px solid var(--line);border-radius:10px;font-size:13px;outline:none;background:var(--white);transition:.2s;color:var(--ink)}.form-control:focus{border-color:var(--wine);box-shadow:0 0 0 3px rgba(75,44,130,.08)}.privacy-note{font-size:10px;color:var(--muted);margin-bottom:16px;display:flex;align-items:center;gap:6px}.btn-submit{width:100%;padding:14px}.form-feedback{margin-top:12px;font-size:12px;font-weight:700;text-align:center;display:none}.form-feedback.success,.form-feedback.error{display:block;color:var(--wine)}

/* Footer */
.site-footer{background:var(--wine);color:var(--line);padding:68px 0 32px;border-top:1px solid var(--wine-2)}.footer-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:2fr 1fr 1.5fr;gap:58px;margin-bottom:50px}.footer-brand{font-size:21px;font-weight:800;color:var(--white);margin-bottom:11px}.footer-tagline{font-size:9px;color:var(--gold);text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:.11em;font-weight:800;margin-bottom:12px}.footer-desc{font-size:11px;line-height:1.7;max-width:390px}.footer-badge{margin-top:18px;font-size:10px;color:var(--line);display:flex;align-items:center;gap:8px}.footer-col h5{color:var(--white);font-size:13px;margin-bottom:16px;font-weight:800}.footer-links{list-style:none;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:9px;font-size:11px}.footer-links a:hover{color:var(--gold)}.footer-contact-item{display:flex;gap:8px;align-items:flex-start}.footer-bottom{border-top:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.14);padding-top:22px;display:flex;justify-content:space-between;gap:22px;font-size:10px;color:var(--line)}.footer-legal{display:flex;gap:20px}.footer-legal a:hover{color:var(--gold)}

/* Responsive */
@media(max-width:1080px){
  .nav-links{display:none}.hero-grid{grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr;gap:34px}.hero-heading{font-size:clamp(44px,5vw,62px)}.hero-main-img{height:480px}.proof-grid{grid-template-columns:repeat(2,1fr)}.proof-card:nth-child(2){border-right:0}.proof-card:nth-child(-n+2){border-bottom:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.14)}.programs-grid,.testimonials-grid{grid-template-columns:repeat(2,1fr)}.process-steps-grid{grid-template-columns:repeat(2,1fr)}.journey-inner{flex-wrap:wrap}.footer-grid{grid-template-columns:1.5fr 1fr 1.2fr;gap:34px}
}
@media(max-width:820px){
  .section-pad{padding:78px 0}.hero-section:after{width:100%;opacity:.18}.hero-section:before{background:rgba(248,246,251,.92)}.hero-grid{grid-template-columns:1fr;padding:62px 0}.hero-content{max-width:720px}.hero-media-wrap{min-height:auto;justify-content:center;margin-top:10px}.hero-main-img{width:100%;height:440px}.hero-floating-card{left:18px}.hero-pill-one{left:10px}.hero-pill-two{right:10px}.why-grid,.about-grid,.contact-grid{grid-template-columns:1fr;gap:42px}.section-header-split,.stories-header{align-items:flex-start;flex-direction:column}.section-subtitle{max-width:650px}.journey-inner{flex-direction:column;align-items:flex-start}.journey-steps{flex-wrap:wrap}.footer-grid{grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr}.footer-grid>div:first-child{grid-column:1/-1}
}
@media(max-width:600px){
  .container{width:min(100% - 30px,1220px)}.nav-phone{display:none}.hero-section{min-height:auto}.hero-grid{padding:48px 0 58px}.hero-heading{font-size:44px;line-height:1.02}.hero-desc{font-size:15px}.hero-actions{flex-direction:column;align-items:stretch}.hero-actions .btn{width:100%}.trust-metrics{grid-template-columns:repeat(3,1fr)}.metric-item{padding-right:10px}.metric-item+.metric-item{padding-left:12px}.metric-item strong{font-size:23px}.metric-item span{font-size:8px}.hero-main-img{height:360px;border-width:6px;border-radius:22px}.hero-floating-card{top:16px;left:6px}.hero-pill{font-size:9px;padding:9px 11px}.hero-pill-one{left:4px;bottom:62px}.hero-pill-two{right:4px;bottom:14px}.proof-grid,.programs-grid,.testimonials-grid,.process-steps-grid,.why-benefits,.about-perks,.form-row{grid-template-columns:1fr}.proof-card{border-right:0!important;border-bottom:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.14)}.proof-card:last-child{border-bottom:0}.section-title{font-size:36px}.journey-steps{flex-direction:column;align-items:flex-start}.step-divider{display:none}.why-campus-img,.counselor-img{height:380px}.mid-banner{padding:32px 24px;flex-direction:column;align-items:flex-start}.form-wrapper{padding:28px 20px}.footer-grid{grid-template-columns:1fr}.footer-grid>div:first-child{grid-column:auto}.footer-bottom{flex-direction:column}.footer-legal{flex-wrap:wrap}.site-header .btn-sm{display:none}
}

/* =========================================================
   PREMIUM REFINEMENT — BELOW HERO ONLY
   Hero/header remain unchanged. Existing NMIMS palette only.
   ========================================================= */

/* Give every post-hero section a calmer, more editorial rhythm */
.proof-strip,
#programs,
.journey-band,
#why-nmims,
.about-section,
.about-section + .section-pad,
.testimonials-section,
#enquiry{
  position:relative;
  isolation:isolate;
}

/* Proof: replace the heavy block feeling with a refined brand strip */
.proof-strip{
  background:var(--white);
  color:var(--ink);
  border-top:1px solid var(--line);
  border-bottom:1px solid var(--line);
  padding:24px 0;
}
.proof-grid{
  gap:14px;
}
.proof-card{
  background:var(--cream);
  border:1px solid var(--line);
  border-radius:18px;
  padding:26px 24px;
  color:var(--ink);
  box-shadow:none;
  overflow:hidden;
  position:relative;
  transition:transform .3s ease,box-shadow .3s ease,border-color .3s ease,background .3s ease;
}
.proof-card::after{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  inset:auto 24px 0;
  height:3px;
  border-radius:99px 99px 0 0;
  background:var(--gold);
  transform:scaleX(.25);
  transform-origin:left;
  transition:transform .32s ease;
}
.proof-card:hover{
  background:var(--white);
  transform:translateY(-5px);
  border-color:var(--gold);
  box-shadow:var(--shadow-soft);
}
.proof-card:hover::after{transform:scaleX(1)}
.proof-card .proof-num,
.proof-card .icon-accent{color:var(--wine)}
.proof-card h4{color:var(--wine);font-size:15px;font-weight:800}
.proof-card p{color:var(--muted);font-size:12px}
.proof-card{border-right:1px solid var(--line)!important;border-bottom:1px solid var(--line)!important}

/* Programs: premium soft section with cleaner depth */
#programs{
  background:var(--cream);
  border-bottom:1px solid var(--line);
}
#programs::before{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  width:180px;
  height:180px;
  border:34px solid var(--gold);
  border-radius:50%;
  right:-95px;
  top:74px;
  opacity:.18;
  z-index:-1;
}
.programs-grid{gap:24px}
.program-card{
  border-radius:26px;
  padding:36px 32px 32px;
  box-shadow:0 8px 24px rgba(75,44,130,.045);
}
.program-card::before{
  height:4px;
  background:var(--gold);
  transform:scaleX(0);
}
.program-card:hover{
  transform:translateY(-10px);
  border-color:var(--line);
  box-shadow:0 26px 58px rgba(75,44,130,.12);
}
.program-card.featured{
  background:var(--white);
  border:1px solid var(--wine);
  box-shadow:0 20px 48px rgba(75,44,130,.1);
}
.program-card.featured::after{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  width:82px;
  height:82px;
  border-radius:50%;
  background:var(--gold);
  right:-38px;
  bottom:-38px;
  opacity:.4;
}
.meta-tag{background:var(--cream);border:1px solid var(--line)}
.featured-tag{border-radius:0 25px 0 15px}

/* Journey: a single strong contrast band, but more premium and less blocky */
.journey-band{
  background:var(--wine);
  color:var(--white);
  border:0;
  padding:54px 0;
  overflow:hidden;
}
.journey-band::before{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  width:320px;
  height:320px;
  border:54px solid var(--gold);
  border-radius:50%;
  right:-155px;
  top:-115px;
  opacity:.12;
  z-index:-1;
}
.journey-kicker,.step-num{color:var(--gold)}
.journey-title{color:var(--white)}
.journey-steps{gap:20px}
.step-item{
  padding:10px 12px;
  border-radius:12px;
  transition:background .25s ease,transform .25s ease;
}
.step-item:hover{
  background:var(--wine-2);
  transform:translateY(-3px);
}
.step-item strong{color:var(--white)}
.step-item .text-slate{color:var(--line)}
.step-divider{color:var(--gold)}
.journey-band .btn-outline-white{
  background:var(--white);
  border-color:var(--white);
  color:var(--wine);
}
.journey-band .btn-outline-white:hover{
  background:var(--gold);
  border-color:var(--gold);
  color:var(--wine);
}

/* Why NMIMS: white canvas + image framed like a premium prospectus */
#why-nmims{
  background:var(--white);
  overflow:hidden;
}
#why-nmims::after{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  left:-120px;
  bottom:-165px;
  width:330px;
  height:330px;
  border-radius:50%;
  background:var(--cream);
  z-index:-1;
}
.why-grid{gap:78px}
.why-grid>div:first-child{
  position:relative;
  padding:18px 0 18px 18px;
}
.why-grid>div:first-child::before{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  inset:0 42px 0 0;
  background:var(--gold);
  border-radius:30px;
  z-index:-1;
  transform:translate(-10px,10px);
}
.why-campus-img{
  border-radius:26px;
  box-shadow:0 24px 60px rgba(75,44,130,.13);
}
.why-benefits{gap:14px}
.benefit-item{
  border-radius:16px;
  padding:20px;
  background:var(--cream);
}
.benefit-item:hover{
  background:var(--white);
  border-color:var(--gold);
  transform:translateY(-4px);
}

/* About: soft section separation, with a luxury editorial image treatment */
.about-section{
  background:var(--cream);
  border-top:1px solid var(--line);
  border-bottom:1px solid var(--line);
}
.about-grid{gap:76px}
.about-perks{gap:12px}
.perk{
  background:var(--white);
  border:1px solid var(--line);
  border-radius:12px;
  padding:13px 14px;
  transition:transform .25s ease,border-color .25s ease,box-shadow .25s ease;
}
.perk:hover{
  transform:translateY(-3px);
  border-color:var(--gold);
  box-shadow:var(--shadow-soft);
}
.counselor-frame::before{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  width:120px;
  height:120px;
  background:var(--gold);
  border-radius:24px;
  right:-20px;
  top:-20px;
  z-index:-1;
}
.counselor-img{border-radius:26px}
.counselor-tag{
  left:18px;
  right:18px;
  bottom:18px;
  border:1px solid var(--line);
  border-radius:13px;
}

/* Process: distinct white section with numbered editorial cards */
.about-section + .section-pad{
  background:var(--white);
  overflow:hidden;
}
.about-section + .section-pad::before{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  inset:0 0 auto;
  height:1px;
  background:var(--line);
}
.process-steps-grid{gap:20px;counter-reset:premium-step}
.process-step-card{
  position:relative;
  border-radius:22px;
  padding:34px 25px 28px;
  overflow:hidden;
  box-shadow:0 8px 24px rgba(75,44,130,.04);
}
.process-step-card::before{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  left:0;
  top:0;
  width:4px;
  height:100%;
  background:var(--gold);
  transform:scaleY(.25);
  transform-origin:top;
  transition:transform .3s ease;
}
.process-step-card:hover::before{transform:scaleY(1)}
.process-step-card:hover{
  transform:translateY(-7px);
  border-color:var(--line);
  box-shadow:0 20px 46px rgba(75,44,130,.1);
}
.process-step-card .num{
  display:inline-flex;
  align-items:center;
  justify-content:center;
  min-width:38px;
  height:38px;
  padding:0 10px;
  border-radius:10px;
  background:var(--cream);
  border:1px solid var(--line);
  color:var(--wine);
  margin-bottom:18px;
}
.stage-tag{
  padding-top:14px;
  border-top:1px solid var(--line);
}

/* Testimonials: lighter luxury section, not another heavy colour block */
.testimonials-section{
  background:var(--cream);
  border-top:1px solid var(--line);
  border-bottom:1px solid var(--line);
}
.testimonial-card{
  border-radius:24px;
  padding:32px 28px;
  box-shadow:0 6px 20px rgba(75,44,130,.035);
}
.testimonial-card:hover{
  transform:translateY(-7px);
  border-color:var(--line);
  box-shadow:0 20px 44px rgba(75,44,130,.1);
}
.stars{
  display:inline-flex;
  width:max-content;
  background:var(--gold);
  color:var(--wine);
  padding:5px 9px;
  border-radius:999px;
  letter-spacing:1px;
  font-size:10px;
}
.mid-banner{
  border-radius:28px;
  padding:50px 52px;
  box-shadow:0 24px 60px rgba(75,44,130,.16);
  overflow:hidden;
  position:relative;
}
.mid-banner::after{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  width:180px;
  height:180px;
  border:34px solid var(--gold);
  border-radius:50%;
  right:-75px;
  bottom:-95px;
  opacity:.16;
}
.mid-banner>*{position:relative;z-index:1}

/* Contact & form: visible and premium, but deliberately simple */
#enquiry{
  background:var(--white);
}
.contact-grid{gap:72px}
.contact-box{
  background:var(--white);
  border:1px solid var(--line);
  border-left:3px solid var(--gold);
  border-radius:13px;
  box-shadow:none;
}
.contact-box:hover{
  transform:translateX(4px);
  border-color:var(--line);
  border-left-color:var(--wine);
  box-shadow:var(--shadow-soft);
}
.form-wrapper{
  position:relative;
  background:var(--white);
  border:2px solid var(--wine);
  border-radius:20px;
  padding:38px;
  box-shadow:0 18px 44px rgba(75,44,130,.08);
  overflow:hidden;
}
.form-wrapper::before{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  left:0;
  top:0;
  width:100%;
  height:5px;
  background:var(--gold);
}
.form-wrapper h3{font-size:22px}
.form-control{
  min-height:47px;
  border-radius:9px;
  border:1px solid var(--line);
  background:var(--white);
}
textarea.form-control{min-height:94px}
.form-control:hover{border-color:var(--muted)}
.form-control:focus{
  border-color:var(--wine);
  box-shadow:0 0 0 3px rgba(75,44,130,.07);
}
.btn-submit{
  min-height:52px;
  border-radius:10px;
}

/* Footer: retain brand colour, but sharpen hierarchy */
.site-footer{
  border-top:5px solid var(--gold);
}
.footer-brand{letter-spacing:-.02em}
.footer-links a{transition:color .2s ease,padding-left .2s ease}
.footer-links a:hover{padding-left:3px}

/* Keep the premium refinements responsive */
@media(max-width:1080px){
  .proof-grid{gap:12px}
  .proof-card{border:1px solid var(--line)!important}
  .why-grid,.about-grid,.contact-grid{gap:48px}
}
@media(max-width:820px){
  #programs::before,#why-nmims::after{display:none}
  .why-grid>div:first-child{padding:12px 0 12px 12px}
  .mid-banner{padding:38px 32px}
  .form-wrapper{padding:32px}
}
@media(max-width:600px){
  .proof-strip{padding:18px 0}
  .proof-card{padding:22px 20px}
  .program-card{padding:28px 22px}
  .why-grid>div:first-child::before{inset:0 24px 0 0}
  .mid-banner{padding:32px 22px}
  .form-wrapper{padding:28px 20px;border-width:1px}
}


/* NMIMS brand refinements */
.brand-logo-link{display:flex;align-items:center;min-width:220px}
.brand-logo-img{width:210px;height:auto;display:block;object-fit:contain}
.footer-brand{margin-bottom:18px}
.footer-logo-img{width:215px;height:auto;display:block;background:#fff;border-radius:12px;padding:8px 10px}
.site-header{background:rgba(255,255,255,.96);backdrop-filter:blur(14px);box-shadow:0 8px 28px rgba(75,44,130,.06)}
.btn-accent{box-shadow:0 12px 28px rgba(241,90,41,.18)}
.btn-accent:hover{box-shadow:0 16px 34px rgba(241,90,41,.24)}
.badge-partner{border:1px solid rgba(75,44,130,.13)}
@media(max-width:600px){.brand-logo-link{min-width:auto}.brand-logo-img{width:170px}.footer-logo-img{width:190px}}

/* =========================================================
   NMIMS / Edpyramid-inspired premium colour refinement
   Requested gradient: linear-gradient(135deg,#2b2bd6,#6C4CF1,#ff5a2c)
   ========================================================= */
:root{
  --ref-blue:#2b2bd6;
  --ref-violet:#6C4CF1;
  --ref-orange:#ff5a2c;
  --ref-orange-hover:#e94b20;
  --ref-soft:#f7f7fb;
  --ref-ink:#232238;
  --ref-muted:#6d6a7d;
  --ref-line:#e9e7f2;
}

body{color:var(--ref-ink);background:#fff}

/* Header stays clean; CTA becomes the orange reference accent */
.site-header{
  background:rgba(255,255,255,.97);
  border-bottom:1px solid var(--ref-line);
  box-shadow:0 8px 28px rgba(43,43,214,.045);
}
.nav-links a:hover{color:var(--ref-violet)}
.nav-links a:after{background:var(--ref-orange)}
.nav-phone{color:var(--ref-ink)}
.site-header .btn-dark,
.site-header .btn-accent,
.nav-actions .btn{
  background:var(--ref-orange)!important;
  color:#fff!important;
  border-color:var(--ref-orange)!important;
  box-shadow:0 10px 24px rgba(255,90,44,.22)!important;
}
.site-header .btn-dark:hover,
.site-header .btn-accent:hover,
.nav-actions .btn:hover{
  background:var(--ref-orange-hover)!important;
  border-color:var(--ref-orange-hover)!important;
  box-shadow:0 15px 30px rgba(255,90,44,.28)!important;
}

/* Main typography/accent refinements */
.eyebrow{color:var(--ref-violet)}
.section-title,.quote-title,.process-center-head h2,.contact-info-col h2{color:var(--ref-ink)}
.section-subtitle,.text-lead-desc,.text-body-desc,.contact-desc{color:var(--ref-muted)}
.link-brand,.link-arrow:hover{color:var(--ref-orange)}
.icon-accent,.icon-accent-sm,.icon-contact{color:var(--ref-violet)}

/* Hero remains light and premium, with restrained gradient accents */
.hero-section{background:#fff}
.hero-section:before{
  background:linear-gradient(90deg,#fff 0%,#fff 49%,rgba(247,247,251,.90) 66%,rgba(247,247,251,.28) 100%);
}
.hero-section:after{
  background:
    linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(255,255,255,.30),rgba(108,76,241,.07)),
    url('https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1523240795612-9a054b0db644?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1600&q=88') center/cover no-repeat;
}
.badge-partner{color:var(--ref-violet);border-color:rgba(108,76,241,.16)}
.hero-heading{color:var(--ref-ink)}
.hero-heading em{color:var(--ref-violet)}
.hero-heading em:after{background:var(--ref-orange)}
.metric-item strong{color:var(--ref-blue)}
.hero-media-wrap:before{background:var(--ref-orange);opacity:.42}
.hero-media-wrap:after{border-color:var(--ref-violet)}
.hero-floating-card,.hero-pill{color:var(--ref-ink);border-color:var(--ref-line)}
.hero-pill-two{background:var(--ref-orange);border-color:var(--ref-orange);color:#fff}

/* Proof strip becomes clean, not another heavy colour block */
.proof-strip{background:#fff;color:var(--ref-ink);border-block:1px solid var(--ref-line);padding:22px 0}
.proof-grid{gap:14px}
.proof-card{
  background:var(--ref-soft);
  border:1px solid var(--ref-line)!important;
  border-radius:18px;
  color:var(--ref-ink);
  box-shadow:0 8px 22px rgba(43,43,214,.035);
}
.proof-card:hover{background:#fff;transform:translateY(-5px);box-shadow:0 18px 36px rgba(43,43,214,.08)}
.proof-num,.proof-card .icon-accent{color:var(--ref-orange)}
.proof-card h4{color:var(--ref-ink)}
.proof-card p{color:var(--ref-muted)}

/* Programs: white-first with violet + orange only as accents */
#programs{background:#fff}
.program-card{border-color:var(--ref-line);box-shadow:0 10px 28px rgba(43,43,214,.045)}
.program-card::before{background:linear-gradient(90deg,var(--ref-blue),var(--ref-violet),var(--ref-orange))}
.program-card:hover{border-color:rgba(108,76,241,.28);box-shadow:0 24px 52px rgba(43,43,214,.10)}
.program-card.featured{border-color:rgba(108,76,241,.35);box-shadow:0 20px 48px rgba(108,76,241,.10)}
.featured-tag{background:var(--ref-orange);color:#fff}
.meta-tag{background:var(--ref-soft);border-color:var(--ref-line);color:var(--ref-violet)}
.meta-tag-highlight{background:rgba(255,90,44,.10);color:var(--ref-orange)}
.program-card h3{color:var(--ref-ink)}

/* Showcase gradient section #1 */
.journey-band{
  background:linear-gradient(135deg,#2b2bd6,#6C4CF1,#ff5a2c)!important;
  color:#fff;
  border:0;
  box-shadow:0 22px 52px rgba(72,63,214,.18);
}
.journey-band::before{
  border-color:rgba(255,255,255,.55);
  opacity:.10;
}
.journey-kicker,.step-num{color:#fff}
.journey-title,.step-item strong{color:#fff}
.step-item .text-slate{color:rgba(255,255,255,.78)}
.step-item:hover{background:rgba(255,255,255,.10)}
.step-divider{color:rgba(255,255,255,.72)}
.journey-band .btn-outline-white{
  background:#fff;
  color:var(--ref-blue);
  border-color:#fff;
}
.journey-band .btn-outline-white:hover{
  background:var(--ref-orange);
  border-color:var(--ref-orange);
  color:#fff;
}

/* Why NMIMS and About stay mostly white/soft */
#why-nmims{background:#fff}
.why-grid>div:first-child::before{background:linear-gradient(145deg,var(--ref-violet),var(--ref-orange))}
.benefit-item{background:var(--ref-soft);border-color:var(--ref-line)}
.benefit-item:hover{background:#fff;border-color:rgba(108,76,241,.26)}
.about-section{background:var(--ref-soft);border-color:var(--ref-line)}
.perk{border-color:var(--ref-line)}
.perk:hover{border-color:rgba(255,90,44,.38);box-shadow:0 14px 32px rgba(43,43,214,.07)}
.counselor-frame::before{background:linear-gradient(135deg,var(--ref-violet),var(--ref-orange))}

/* Process cards */
.process-step-card{border-color:var(--ref-line);box-shadow:0 8px 24px rgba(43,43,214,.035)}
.process-step-card::before{background:linear-gradient(180deg,var(--ref-violet),var(--ref-orange))}
.process-step-card:hover{box-shadow:0 20px 46px rgba(43,43,214,.08)}
.process-step-card .num{color:var(--ref-violet);background:var(--ref-soft);border-color:var(--ref-line)}

/* Testimonials remain light */
.testimonials-section{background:var(--ref-soft);border-color:var(--ref-line)}
.testimonial-card{border-color:var(--ref-line)}
.testimonial-card:hover{box-shadow:0 20px 44px rgba(43,43,214,.08)}
.stars{background:rgba(255,90,44,.11);color:var(--ref-orange)}
.author-avatar{background:var(--ref-violet)}
.avatar-accent{background:var(--ref-orange);color:#fff}
.global-rating{color:var(--ref-violet)}

/* Showcase gradient section #2 */
.mid-banner{
  background:linear-gradient(135deg,#2b2bd6,#6C4CF1,#ff5a2c)!important;
  box-shadow:0 26px 60px rgba(72,63,214,.20);
}
.mid-banner::after{border-color:rgba(255,255,255,.65);opacity:.12}
.banner-kicker{color:#fff}
.banner-title{color:#fff}
.banner-desc{color:rgba(255,255,255,.82)}
.mid-banner .btn-accent{
  background:#fff!important;
  color:var(--ref-blue)!important;
  border-color:#fff!important;
  box-shadow:0 12px 26px rgba(20,20,80,.14)!important;
}
.mid-banner .btn-accent:hover{
  background:var(--ref-orange)!important;
  color:#fff!important;
  border-color:var(--ref-orange)!important;
}

/* Contact + form stays clean, strong and conversion-focused */
#enquiry{background:#fff}
.contact-box{background:#fff;border-color:var(--ref-line);border-left-color:var(--ref-orange)}
.contact-box:hover{border-left-color:var(--ref-violet);box-shadow:0 14px 30px rgba(43,43,214,.06)}
.contact-box-val{color:var(--ref-ink)}
.form-wrapper{
  background:#fff;
  border:1px solid rgba(108,76,241,.28);
  box-shadow:0 20px 48px rgba(43,43,214,.075);
}
.form-wrapper::before{background:linear-gradient(90deg,var(--ref-blue),var(--ref-violet),var(--ref-orange))}
.form-wrapper h3,.form-group label{color:var(--ref-ink)}
.form-control{border-color:var(--ref-line)}
.form-control:focus{border-color:var(--ref-violet);box-shadow:0 0 0 3px rgba(108,76,241,.10)}
.btn-submit{
  background:var(--ref-orange)!important;
  border-color:var(--ref-orange)!important;
  color:#fff!important;
  box-shadow:0 12px 26px rgba(255,90,44,.20)!important;
}
.btn-submit:hover{background:var(--ref-orange-hover)!important;border-color:var(--ref-orange-hover)!important}

/* Footer: refined dark-violet brand finish */
.site-footer{
  background:#2f2452;
  border-top:5px solid var(--ref-orange);
}
.footer-links a:hover{color:#fff}

/* Responsive fine-tuning */
@media(max-width:600px){
  .proof-strip{padding:16px 0}
  .proof-grid{gap:10px}
  .journey-band,.mid-banner{box-shadow:none}
}

/* =========================================================
   FINAL READABILITY + CARD BORDER REFINEMENT
   Keeps the existing color system and layout intact.
   ========================================================= */

/* Stronger card definition */
.proof-card,
.program-card,
.benefit-item,
.process-step-card,
.testimonial-card,
.contact-box,
.form-wrapper,
.perk {
  border-width: 2px !important;
  border-style: solid !important;
  border-color: var(--ref-line) !important;
}

.program-card.featured {
  border-color: rgba(108,76,241,.42) !important;
}

.proof-card:hover,
.program-card:hover,
.benefit-item:hover,
.process-step-card:hover,
.testimonial-card:hover,
.contact-box:hover,
.perk:hover {
  border-color: rgba(108,76,241,.38) !important;
}

.form-wrapper {
  border-color: rgba(108,76,241,.34) !important;
}

/* Paragraph readability: slightly larger type, generous line-height */
.hero-desc {
  font-size: 17px;
  line-height: 1.8;
}

.section-subtitle,
.text-lead-desc,
.text-body-desc,
.contact-desc {
  font-size: 15px;
  line-height: 1.8;
  color: var(--ref-muted);
}

.proof-card p {
  font-size: 13.5px;
  line-height: 1.72;
  color: var(--ref-muted);
}

.program-desc {
  font-size: 14px;
  line-height: 1.75;
  color: var(--ref-muted);
  min-height: 74px;
}

.card-features li {
  font-size: 13px;
  line-height: 1.55;
}

.benefit-item p {
  font-size: 13.5px;
  line-height: 1.72;
  color: var(--ref-muted);
}

.process-step-card p {
  font-size: 13.5px;
  line-height: 1.72;
  color: var(--ref-muted);
}

.testimonial-text {
  font-size: 14px;
  line-height: 1.8;
}

.banner-desc {
  font-size: 13.5px;
  line-height: 1.7;
}

.form-subtitle {
  font-size: 13.5px;
  line-height: 1.7;
}

.contact-checkmarks {
  font-size: 13px;
  line-height: 1.6;
}

/* Keep inputs crisp and easy to scan */
.form-control {
  border-width: 1.5px;
  font-size: 14px;
  line-height: 1.45;
}

/* Maintain proportion on smaller screens */
@media (max-width: 767px) {
  .section-subtitle,
  .text-lead-desc,
  .text-body-desc,
  .contact-desc {
    font-size: 14px;
    line-height: 1.75;
  }

  .program-desc,
  .testimonial-text {
    min-height: auto;
  }

  .proof-card p,
  .benefit-item p,
  .process-step-card p {
    font-size: 13px;
  }
}


/* =========================================================
   PREMIUM VISUAL REFINEMENT — stronger default borders,
   section separation, side imagery, reduced empty white feel
   ========================================================= */

:root{
  --card-border-strong: rgba(43,43,214,.22);
  --card-border-soft: rgba(108,76,241,.18);
  --visual-soft: #f7f6ff;
  --visual-warm: #fff8f4;
}

/* Strong visible borders BEFORE hover */
.proof-card,
.program-card,
.benefit-item,
.process-step-card,
.testimonial-card,
.contact-box,
.form-wrapper{
  border:2px solid var(--card-border-strong) !important;
}

.program-card.featured{
  border:2px solid rgba(255,90,44,.55) !important;
}

.proof-card:hover,
.program-card:hover,
.benefit-item:hover,
.process-step-card:hover,
.testimonial-card:hover,
.contact-box:hover{
  border-color:var(--ref-violet) !important;
}

.program-card.featured:hover{
  border-color:var(--ref-orange) !important;
}

/* PROGRAMS — introduce visual balance without losing white-first look */
#programs{
  position:relative;
  overflow:hidden;
  background:
    radial-gradient(circle at 8% 12%, rgba(108,76,241,.10), transparent 24%),
    radial-gradient(circle at 93% 76%, rgba(255,90,44,.09), transparent 22%),
    #fff;
}

#programs::before{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  width:220px;
  height:220px;
  right:-75px;
  top:70px;
  border:1px solid rgba(108,76,241,.16);
  border-radius:50%;
  pointer-events:none;
}

.programs-intro-grid{
  display:grid;
  grid-template-columns:minmax(0,1.35fr) minmax(300px,.65fr);
  gap:42px;
  align-items:stretch;
  margin-bottom:48px;
}

.programs-intro-grid .section-header-split{
  margin-bottom:0;
  flex-direction:column;
  align-items:flex-start;
  justify-content:center;
  gap:20px;
  padding:10px 0;
}

.programs-intro-grid .section-subtitle{
  text-align:left;
  max-width:630px;
}

.programs-side-visual{
  position:relative;
  min-height:280px;
  border-radius:28px;
  overflow:hidden;
  border:2px solid var(--card-border-strong);
  box-shadow:0 22px 54px rgba(43,43,214,.10);
  background:var(--visual-soft);
}

.programs-side-visual img{
  width:100%;
  height:100%;
  object-fit:cover;
  display:block;
  transition:transform .55s ease;
}

.programs-side-visual:hover img{transform:scale(1.04)}

.programs-visual-accent{
  position:absolute;
  inset:auto 0 0 0;
  height:7px;
  background:linear-gradient(90deg,#2b2bd6,#6C4CF1,#ff5a2c);
}

/* Card surfaces get more depth at rest */
.program-card,
.benefit-item,
.process-step-card,
.testimonial-card{
  box-shadow:0 12px 30px rgba(43,43,214,.045);
}

.program-card{
  background:rgba(255,255,255,.97);
}

.program-card:nth-child(2){
  transform:translateY(-8px);
}

.program-card:nth-child(2):hover{
  transform:translateY(-14px);
}

/* WHY NMIMS — soft visual split */
#why-nmims{
  position:relative;
  background:
    linear-gradient(90deg, rgba(247,246,255,.95) 0%, rgba(247,246,255,.95) 48%, #fff 48%, #fff 100%);
  overflow:hidden;
}

#why-nmims::after{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  width:280px;
  height:280px;
  right:-100px;
  bottom:-100px;
  border-radius:50%;
  background:linear-gradient(135deg,rgba(43,43,214,.08),rgba(108,76,241,.08),rgba(255,90,44,.10));
  pointer-events:none;
}

.why-campus-img{
  border:2px solid var(--card-border-strong);
}

/* ABOUT — add a subtle warm field instead of plain white */
.about-section{
  position:relative;
  background:
    radial-gradient(circle at 88% 18%, rgba(255,90,44,.08), transparent 24%),
    linear-gradient(180deg,#fff 0%,#fffaf7 100%);
  overflow:hidden;
}

.counselor-img{
  border:2px solid var(--card-border-strong);
}

/* PROCESS — side visual + 2x2 card layout */
.process-premium-section{
  position:relative;
  overflow:hidden;
  background:
    linear-gradient(135deg,rgba(43,43,214,.045),rgba(108,76,241,.025) 48%,rgba(255,90,44,.045)),
    #fff;
}

.process-premium-section::before{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  left:-120px;
  bottom:-120px;
  width:320px;
  height:320px;
  border-radius:50%;
  border:1px solid rgba(108,76,241,.12);
}

.process-premium-layout{
  display:grid;
  grid-template-columns:.72fr 1.28fr;
  gap:60px;
  align-items:center;
}

.process-content-wrap{min-width:0}

.process-premium-layout .process-center-head{
  text-align:left;
  margin-bottom:34px;
}

.process-premium-layout .text-subtitle-center{
  max-width:650px;
}

.process-premium-layout .process-steps-grid{
  grid-template-columns:repeat(2,1fr);
  gap:18px;
}

.process-side-visual{
  position:relative;
  height:560px;
  border-radius:30px;
  overflow:hidden;
  border:2px solid var(--card-border-strong);
  box-shadow:0 26px 60px rgba(43,43,214,.11);
}

.process-side-visual img{
  width:100%;
  height:100%;
  object-fit:cover;
  display:block;
  transition:transform .55s ease;
}

.process-side-visual:hover img{transform:scale(1.035)}

.process-image-shape{
  position:absolute;
  right:-35px;
  bottom:-35px;
  width:155px;
  height:155px;
  border-radius:50%;
  background:linear-gradient(135deg,rgba(43,43,214,.88),rgba(108,76,241,.88),rgba(255,90,44,.90));
  filter:saturate(.95);
}

/* TESTIMONIALS — subtle gradient panel so the page feels less empty */
.testimonials-premium-bg{
  position:relative;
  overflow:hidden;
  background:
    radial-gradient(circle at 5% 20%, rgba(43,43,214,.09), transparent 24%),
    radial-gradient(circle at 95% 85%, rgba(255,90,44,.10), transparent 25%),
    linear-gradient(180deg,#fbfaff,#fff 70%);
}

.testimonials-premium-bg::before{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  top:0;
  left:0;
  right:0;
  height:5px;
  background:linear-gradient(90deg,#2b2bd6,#6C4CF1,#ff5a2c);
}

.testimonial-card{
  background:rgba(255,255,255,.94);
  backdrop-filter:blur(4px);
}

/* ENQUIRY — make the conversion area visually distinct */
.enquiry-premium-section{
  position:relative;
  background:
    linear-gradient(115deg,#fff 0%,#fff 52%,rgba(108,76,241,.055) 52%,rgba(255,90,44,.055) 100%);
  overflow:hidden;
}

.enquiry-premium-section::after{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  right:4%;
  top:11%;
  width:160px;
  height:160px;
  border-radius:50%;
  border:1px solid rgba(108,76,241,.14);
  pointer-events:none;
}

.form-wrapper{
  position:relative;
  background:#fff;
  border:2px solid var(--card-border-strong) !important;
  box-shadow:0 22px 55px rgba(43,43,214,.08);
}

.form-wrapper::after{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  inset:10px;
  border:1px solid rgba(108,76,241,.08);
  border-radius:18px;
  pointer-events:none;
}

.form-wrapper > *{
  position:relative;
  z-index:1;
}

.contact-box{
  border-left:5px solid var(--ref-orange) !important;
}

/* Readability refinements */
.program-desc,
.text-lead-desc,
.text-body-desc,
.process-step-card p,
.benefit-item p,
.testimonial-text,
.contact-desc,
.section-subtitle,
.proof-card p{
  line-height:1.72;
}

.program-desc,
.text-lead-desc,
.text-body-desc,
.contact-desc,
.section-subtitle{
  font-size:15px;
}

/* Responsive */
@media (max-width: 1024px){
  .programs-intro-grid{
    grid-template-columns:1fr;
  }
  .programs-side-visual{
    min-height:360px;
  }
  .process-premium-layout{
    grid-template-columns:1fr;
  }
  .process-side-visual{
    height:420px;
  }
  #why-nmims{
    background:linear-gradient(180deg,rgba(247,246,255,.95) 0%,#fff 65%);
  }
}

@media (max-width: 700px){
  .programs-side-visual{
    min-height:260px;
    border-radius:22px;
  }
  .program-card:nth-child(2),
  .program-card:nth-child(2):hover{
    transform:none;
  }
  .process-premium-layout .process-steps-grid{
    grid-template-columns:1fr;
  }
  .process-side-visual{
    height:340px;
    border-radius:22px;
  }
  .enquiry-premium-section{
    background:linear-gradient(180deg,#fff 0%,rgba(108,76,241,.045) 100%);
  }
}


/* =========================================================
   HERO + SQUARE IMAGE + REFERENCE STYLE SECTION REFINEMENT
   ========================================================= */

/* HERO — more premium composition */
.hero-section{
  position:relative;
  overflow:hidden;
  background:
    radial-gradient(circle at 12% 18%, rgba(108,76,241,.10), transparent 28%),
    radial-gradient(circle at 92% 18%, rgba(255,90,44,.10), transparent 23%),
    linear-gradient(180deg,#ffffff 0%,#fbfaff 100%);
}

.hero-section::before{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  right:-7%;
  top:-10%;
  width:44%;
  height:118%;
  background:
    linear-gradient(135deg,rgba(43,43,214,.045),rgba(108,76,241,.075),rgba(255,90,44,.05));
  clip-path:polygon(24% 0,100% 0,100% 100%,0 100%);
  pointer-events:none;
}

.hero-premium-orb{
  position:absolute;
  border-radius:50%;
  pointer-events:none;
  filter:blur(.1px);
  z-index:0;
}

.hero-orb-one{
  width:190px;
  height:190px;
  right:13%;
  top:9%;
  background:linear-gradient(135deg,rgba(43,43,214,.14),rgba(108,76,241,.10),rgba(255,90,44,.16));
}

.hero-orb-two{
  width:110px;
  height:110px;
  right:36%;
  bottom:10%;
  border:18px solid rgba(108,76,241,.08);
}

.hero-section .container{
  position:relative;
  z-index:2;
}

.hero-heading{
  letter-spacing:-.035em;
}

.hero-heading em,
.hero-heading .highlight{
  position:relative;
}

.hero-heading em::after,
.hero-heading .highlight::after{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  left:0;
  right:5%;
  bottom:-7px;
  height:6px;
  border-radius:999px;
  background:linear-gradient(90deg,#2b2bd6,#6C4CF1,#ff5a2c);
}

.hero-media-wrap{
  padding:14px;
  border-radius:34px;
  background:
    linear-gradient(#fff,#fff) padding-box,
    linear-gradient(135deg,#2b2bd6,#6C4CF1,#ff5a2c) border-box;
  border:2px solid transparent;
  box-shadow:0 30px 70px rgba(43,43,214,.14);
}

.hero-main-img{
  border-radius:24px !important;
  box-shadow:none !important;
}

.hero-floating-card,
.hero-pill{
  border:1.5px solid rgba(108,76,241,.18);
  box-shadow:0 14px 32px rgba(43,43,214,.12);
  backdrop-filter:blur(12px);
}

.hero-floating-card{
  background:rgba(255,255,255,.96) !important;
  color:#24203d !important;
  border-left:4px solid #ff5a2c !important;
}

.hero-pill{
  background:rgba(255,255,255,.96) !important;
}

.hero-pill-two{
  background:#ff5a2c !important;
  color:#fff !important;
  border-color:#ff5a2c !important;
}

.hero-actions .btn-accent{
  background:linear-gradient(135deg,#2b2bd6,#6C4CF1) !important;
  color:#fff !important;
  box-shadow:0 12px 28px rgba(108,76,241,.24);
}

.hero-actions .btn-accent:hover{
  transform:translateY(-2px);
  box-shadow:0 18px 34px rgba(108,76,241,.28);
}

.hero-actions .btn-outline:hover{
  border-color:#ff5a2c !important;
  color:#ff5a2c !important;
}

/* SQUARE IMAGE CARDS — cleaner, stronger and less tall */
.square-visual-card{
  aspect-ratio:1 / 1 !important;
  min-height:0 !important;
  height:auto !important;
  border-radius:26px !important;
  overflow:hidden;
  position:relative;
  border:2px solid rgba(108,76,241,.28) !important;
  box-shadow:0 22px 52px rgba(43,43,214,.12) !important;
  background:#fff;
}

.square-visual-card::before{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  inset:12px;
  border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.60);
  border-radius:20px;
  z-index:2;
  pointer-events:none;
}

.square-visual-card::after{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  inset:auto 0 0 0;
  height:8px;
  background:linear-gradient(90deg,#2b2bd6,#6C4CF1,#ff5a2c);
  z-index:3;
}

.square-visual-card img{
  width:100%;
  height:100%;
  object-fit:cover;
  transition:transform .65s cubic-bezier(.2,.7,.2,1), filter .4s ease;
}

.square-visual-card:hover img{
  transform:scale(1.065);
  filter:saturate(1.04) contrast(1.02);
}

.square-visual-card:hover{
  transform:translateY(-5px);
  box-shadow:0 30px 65px rgba(43,43,214,.16) !important;
}

/* ABOUT section inspired by reference: full image banner + overlay */
.about-reference-banner{
  position:relative;
  isolation:isolate;
  background:
    linear-gradient(rgba(13,13,22,.74),rgba(18,18,28,.76)),
    url("https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1497366811353-6870744d04b2?auto=format&fit=crop&w=1800&q=84") center/cover no-repeat !important;
  color:#fff;
  overflow:hidden;
}

.about-reference-banner::before{
  content:"";
  position:absolute;
  inset:0;
  background:
    radial-gradient(circle at 17% 30%,rgba(108,76,241,.18),transparent 28%),
    radial-gradient(circle at 86% 72%,rgba(255,90,44,.16),transparent 24%);
  z-index:-1;
}

.about-reference-banner .about-grid{
  grid-template-columns:1fr !important;
  max-width:980px;
  text-align:center;
  margin:0 auto;
}

.about-reference-banner .counselor-frame{
  display:none;
}

.about-reference-banner .eyebrow{
  color:#ffd0be !important;
  margin-inline:auto;
}

.about-reference-banner .quote-title,
.about-reference-banner .text-body-desc,
.about-reference-banner .perk{
  color:#fff !important;
}

.about-reference-banner .quote-title{
  max-width:900px;
  margin-left:auto;
  margin-right:auto;
  font-size:clamp(30px,4vw,48px);
}

.about-reference-banner .text-body-desc{
  max-width:900px;
  margin-left:auto;
  margin-right:auto;
  opacity:.94;
  font-size:16px;
  line-height:1.85;
}

.about-reference-banner .about-perks{
  max-width:850px;
  margin:34px auto 28px;
}

.about-reference-banner .perk{
  justify-content:center;
  padding:12px 16px;
  border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.22);
  border-radius:14px;
  background:rgba(255,255,255,.07);
  backdrop-filter:blur(8px);
}

.about-reference-banner .link-brand{
  display:inline-flex;
  color:#fff !important;
  background:#ff5a2c;
  padding:13px 20px;
  border-radius:10px;
  margin-top:6px;
}

.about-reference-banner .link-brand:hover{
  transform:translateY(-2px);
  box-shadow:0 12px 26px rgba(255,90,44,.25);
}

/* Give program intro a stronger graphic backdrop */
.programs-intro-grid{
  position:relative;
  padding:26px;
  border-radius:30px;
  background:
    linear-gradient(145deg,rgba(108,76,241,.055),rgba(255,90,44,.035)),
    #fff;
  border:1.5px solid rgba(108,76,241,.14);
}

/* Responsive */
@media (max-width:1024px){
  .hero-section::before{width:58%}
  .square-visual-card{max-width:520px;margin-inline:auto}
  .about-reference-banner .about-perks{grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr}
}

@media (max-width:700px){
  .hero-section::before{display:none}
  .hero-orb-one{width:120px;height:120px;right:-35px}
  .hero-orb-two{display:none}
  .hero-media-wrap{padding:8px;border-radius:24px}
  .square-visual-card{border-radius:20px !important}
  .programs-intro-grid{padding:18px;border-radius:22px}
  .about-reference-banner .about-perks{grid-template-columns:1fr}
  .about-reference-banner .quote-title{font-size:30px}
}