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Tag: Goa

  • Heineken 0.0 fuels India’s Formula 1 fan rush

    Heineken 0.0 fuels India’s Formula 1 fan rush

    MUMBAI: Talk about putting the pedal to the metal. Heineken 0.0 and Fancode are shifting Indian Formula 1 fandom into top gear with a new partnership designed to bring race-day thrills closer to home.

    The showstopper is The Ultimate F1 Fan Park at UB City Amphitheatre in Bengaluru, where the Singapore Grand Prix will be screened live on 5 October. Expect cheering crowds, roaring engines on the big screen and a festival-style buzz right in the city centre.

    India is no pit stop when it comes to Formula 1 passion. According to Nielsen NFI, the country now boasts nearly 79 million fans, a 41 per cent surge since 2019, making it one of the sport’s fastest-growing markets. Heineken, with its global F1 legacy, is seizing the moment to fuel that growth.

    Beyond Bengaluru, more than 200 curated screenings will light up pubs and sports bars across Mumbai, Pune, Goa, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Bengaluru. Adding extra horsepower, actors Siddhant Chaturvedi, comedian Rohan Joshi and creator Rizwan Bachav will rev up the digital experience with exclusive content around the Singapore Grand Prix.

    Fancode, the official F1 broadcaster in India, will also put fans in the driver’s seat with live race coverage, behind-the-scenes stories and digital exclusives.

    “Heineken 0.0 has always stood for innovation and responsible enjoyment. With F1’s popularity soaring in India, we’re excited to create inclusive fan experiences that make the sport part of everyday culture,” said Heineken Company chief corporate affairs officer Joanna Price.

    For United Breweries, Heineken’s India partner, the move is about more than just screenings. “Formula 1 gives us the perfect stage to bring fans together and shape a culture of community, passion and responsibility,” said chief marketing officer Vikram Bahl.

    Fancode co-founder Yannick Colaco summed it up, “F1 has grown from a niche to one of the fastest-rising fan cultures in India. Fan parks like this strengthen that community spirit.”

    With engines revving and fans rallying, it seems India’s love affair with Formula 1 is only just leaving the starting grid.

  • Goafest 2025 unveils power-packed speaker line-up

    Goafest 2025 unveils power-packed speaker line-up

    MUMBAI: Get ready to be dazzled – Goafest 2025 is back, and it’s pulling out all the stops. The 18th edition of South Asia’s largest creative festival has unveiled a star-studded line-up of speakers, featuring the sharpest creative and marketing minds from India and beyond. With the theme ‘Ignite ____’, this year’s festival is set to spark change, fuel collaborations, and unlock new growth avenues.

    The speaker roster reads like a who’s who of the industry – Rishad Tobaccowala, Youri Guerassimov (Marcel), Prasoon Joshi, Amarjit Singh Batra (Spotify), Geetika Mehta (Nivea), Vikram Mehra (Saregama), Karan Bedi (Amazon MX Player), P.G. Aditiya (Talented), Tejas Apte (HUL), Ankit Desai (Marico), Shubhranshu Singh (Tata Motors), Rajeev Jain (DS Group), Ajay Kakar (Adani Group), Arjun Choudhary (Swiggy), Sanket Prakash Tulangekar (MMT), Pragya Bijalwan (Voltas), Kanika Anand (Airtel), Aruna Daryanani (Amazon MX Player), Darshana Shah (Aditya Birla Capital), Satya Raghavan (Google), Ajit Verghese (JioStar), Bobby Pawar, Sonal Dabral, Rathi Gangappa (Starcom), Rashmi Sehgal (Zenith), Lulu Raghwan (Landor), Rajdeepak Das (Publicis), Deepak Dhar (Banijay), Yash Chopra (Amazon MX Player), Biprorshee Das (WARC), Sujeet Kulkarni (Andersen), Karthi Marshan, Nisha Singhania (Infectious), Rubeena Singh, Shekhar Narayanaswami (Times Innovative), Sandeep Bommireddy (Adonmo) and Promita Saha (Karukrit).
    Anupriya Acharya
    Masterclass sessions at Goafest 2025 will feature a diverse set of industry leaders, including Nick Eagleton (D&AD), Senthil Kumar (VML), Vara Prasad (ITC), Krishnendu Dutta (Ipsos), Jayesh Moorjani (Google), Jayant Rajan (Meta), Gowthaman Ragothaman, Shahad Anand (Media Kart), Amogh Dusad, Anoop Menon (Meta), Debapriya Dutt (Earthday.org) and Karuna Singh  (Earthday.org) 

    But that’s just the start. Bollywood bigwigs Kareena Kapoor Khan, Suniel Shetty, Jaideep Ahlawat, Vijay Varma, and cricket legend Gautam Gambhir will bring star power to the festival. And for those looking to party, Mika Singh’s live performance is set to bring the house down.

    This year’s Goafest introduces the Goafest Village, a multi-stage experience featuring Advertising Plays, Advertising Rocks, and GoaFresh. The event will run from May 21 to 23 at Taj Cidade de Goa Heritage and Horizon, Goa, co-hosted by the Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI) and the Advertising Club (TAC).

    Rohit OhriPublicis grouple south Asia CEO and immediate past president of AAAI Anupriya Acharya said, “This year, we’ve designed the festival in a manner that delivers conversations that matter. Every session has been thoughtfully curated to offer value, be it through fresh perspectives, actionable insights, or future-facing ideas. In an industry that is adapting to the fast-evolving pace, we are excited to present yet another power-packed edition of Goafest, further strengthening the platform’s position as one that encourages learning, meaningful exchange, and forward-thinking dialogue.”

    Rohit Ohri, creative mentor for Goafest 2025, added, “Goafest has always stood for creativity that breaks boundaries. We’re spotlighting voices that inspire change.  This year’s line-up is designed to ignite new possibilities. It’s about creativity that breaks boundaries.”

    The festival promises to be a whirlwind of insights, entertainment, and networking – a must-attend for anyone in the world of creativity and marketing.

  • Ochre Spirits stirs up the market with saffron-infused vodka launch in Goa

    Ochre Spirits stirs up the market with saffron-infused vodka launch in Goa

    MUMBAI: Vodka lovers in India are about to get a golden touch to their drinks as Ochre Spirits unveils its latest innovation Ochre Saffron Vodka. Priced at Rs 1,450 for 750ml, the new variant blends the finest Kashmiri saffron with zesty citrus, delivering a smooth yet vibrant drinking experience. The launch in Goa marks another bold step for the brand, which has already won over consumers with its Nutty Berry Rum and Peach & Cherry Vodka.

    “Nutty Berry Rum and Peach & Cherry Vodka proved that consumers want innovative, smooth, and well-balanced spirits. With Saffron Vodka, we’re taking luxury to the next level infusing the world’s finest Kashmiri saffron with a bright citrus lift to create a vodka that is both indulgent and refreshing.The launch of Ochre Saffron Vodka marks the brand’s continued momentum in the premium spirits space and soon in May 2025, Ochre Spirits are going to unveil the new variant which is a bold and tropical infusion of raw mango, crafted to deliver a smooth yet tangy drinking experience, perfect for Indian palates, Ochre Mango Citron Rum, said Ochre Spirits founder John Royerr.

    With the Asia-Pacific flavoured vodka market expected to grow at a rapid pace, particularly in India, China, and Japan, Ochre Spirits is capitalising on evolving consumer preferences for premium, small-batch craft spirits. The company has set an ambitious goal of becoming an Rs 100 crore brand within the next four years.

    The sensory experience of Ochre Saffron Vodka is as indulgent as its ingredients. The crystal-clear liquid carries a delicate golden sheen, highlighting the saffron infusion. The aroma combines exotic saffron with fresh citrus and subtle floral notes, while the palate delivers a velvety texture with a warm saffron embrace balanced by a crisp citrus lift. The finish is smooth, refined, and laced with lingering spice. It’s designed to be sipped neat, enjoyed on the rocks, or blended into sophisticated cocktails.

    Building on its momentum, Ochre Spirits has already teased its next release Ochre Mango Citron Rum, a tropical raw mango-infused creation set to launch in May 2025.

    With India’s spirits industry evolving rapidly, driven by millennials and Gen Z seeking bolder and more authentic flavours, Ochre Spirits is positioning itself at the forefront of this transformation. By championing artisanal craftsmanship and innovative flavour profiles, the brand is redefining India’s craft spirits landscape, one sip at a time.

  • Rehua India seals the deal as most trusted brand at Pride of India 2025

    Rehua India seals the deal as most trusted brand at Pride of India 2025

    MUMBAI: Trust isn’t just earned, it’s engineered. Rehua India, a pioneer in polymer-based solutions, has been crowned the Most Trusted Brand of the Year 2025 at the prestigious Pride of India Conclave 2025, hosted by The Brand Story. This recognition cements Rehua’s standing as a leader in high-performance interior, building, and industrial solutions.

    The conclave, held at Hyatt Centric Candolim, Goa, brought together industry stalwarts, with Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, former cabinet minister, as the chief guest. The event also saw the presence of international actor and author Kabir Bedi, singer Shibani Kashyap, music composer Anand Raj Anand, and Maria Isabel de Carvalho Mendonça Raimundo, consul general of Portugal, Goa.

    With over 25 years of innovation in India, Rehua has blended precision engineering with sustainability, offering products that redefine modern living. Speaking on the achievement Rehua India executive vice president Tushar Verma shared, “Trust is the foundation of our brand, and this honour reaffirms our commitment to delivering world-class solutions. This award is a testament to our passion for innovation and customer satisfaction.”

    Rehua brand team members Rutvik Karnik and Sairaj Hemachandran stated, “This award amplifies our credibility, instilling even greater confidence among customers, architects, and industry partners. It motivates us to elevate our offerings and expand our footprint in India with renewed conviction.”

    From high-performance edgebands to kitchen innovations, Rehua continues to set new benchmarks in design and functionality. As the company looks ahead, its focus remains on sustainability, cutting-edge solutions, and enhancing customer experiences proving that when it comes to trust, Rehua has it sealed tight.

  • Funskool India appoints old-timer K.A. Shabir as new CEO

    Funskool India appoints old-timer K.A. Shabir as new CEO

    MUMBAI: Being in the toys business is no child’s play. But KA Shabir is willing to take on the challenge. From 1 January 2025, he has taken on the mantle of leading the leading Indian toymaker Funksool India Ltd , part of the MRF group,  as its CEO.. He replaces the very affable R. Jeswant  who was appointed in CEO  in 2020 and  retired year-end 2024. 

    Shabir has been with Funskool for over 33 years and is an accomplished techno commercial expert who has led many departments in Funskool such as international business, manufacturing, factory operations and new product development while also driving organisational growth. 

    “Funskool pioneered the concept of quality and safety in toys and has been instrumental in raising the standards of toys in India. To lead this 39-year-old organisation which has many firsts to its credit at a time when it is expanding rapidly, is an honour. As a team, we will bring out interesting and innovative creations to make playtime a delight for children,”  said Shabir.  

    Amongst the firsts to its credit is the BIS certification for the electric toys it manufactures  in its Goa plant as well for its non-electric toys it makes in its Ranipet  manufacturing facility. It received both the certifications in October 2020, much before the government set deadline of 1 January 2021. 

    For over a decade, Shabir has been the face of Funskool in the international fora within the toy industry.  He is hailed as one of the expert voices in the Indian toy industry. Shabir’s acumen for identifying market opportunities and devising tailor made strategies for new customers has expanded Funskool’s global footprints and its exports revenue. 

    Having excelled in his earlier role as vice president – international division and manufacturing, Shabir’s transition to the new role of CEO marks a new chapter in Funskool’s growth journey.  Under his leadership, Funskool is poised to drive innovation in product development, explore new markets, win more marquee customers from across the globe, use the best of technologies to improve toy manufacturing, further the sustainability initiatives and redefine toy industry standards, says a company press release..

  • Prasar Bharati launches OTT Waves at IFFI Goa

    Prasar Bharati launches OTT Waves at IFFI Goa

    MUMBAI: It’s hoping to make waves amongst streaming consumers and viewers of its linear TV network. State-owned pubcaster Prasar Bharati  today announced the launch of its own OTT platform branded Waves, offering a broad spectrum of entertainment and news content at the opening ceremony of the International Film Festival of India in Goa. 

    Available for android and iOs devices, it offers around 70  live channels including  B4U Bhojpuri, B4U Music, B4U Kadak, B4U Movies, GNT, Indian Today, ABP News, Divya, Republic, Republic Bharat, News Nation, Pitaara, News 24, PTC Punjabi Gold, PTC Punjabi, Times Now Navbharat, News 18 India, 9XM, NDTV India, TV9 Bharatvarsh, E24, News 24, Dabang, 9X Jalwa, 9X Jakhaas, 9X Tashan, Aaj Tak, Sanskar, Satsang, Raj TV, USPL, ABZY Movies, ABZY Dhaakad, Mayaboli, Masti, and NewsX. This apart, close to 34 of its own channels are available for viewing. 

    Waves also has a slew of original programmes from DD National including Fauji 2, an agricultural reality show Khet Khet May, Swarajya, Cybercrime, Rang mein Rang Ganga,  among other shows. A new version of Ramayan  from the house of Sagar is slated to launch soon. Old DD shows of the eighties and nineties, and others from PTC Punjabi complete the package on offer. 

    A catalogue of Hindi movies including Traffic Signal, Aarakshan, Khakee, Vodka Diaries, Phir Hera Pheri are available for viewing.  The international film slate appears to be worth watching: The Goes Wrong Show, The Monkey King, Mr Johnson, and The Hunger Games. But both the Hindi and international films are powered by  LionsgatePlay and are priced at Rs 399 per quarter. If viewers are not open to paying, they can consume a range of regional films which are dubbed in Hindi and can be watched for free. 

    Waves also has tabs offering live events, movies, shows, live TV, religious programming, archival documentaries, live radio, games, nostalgia, a shopping area linked to the open network for digital commerce, ebooks, a podcast and a creators’ corner.  

    The Waves app is available in three subscription offers. The first, a platinum annual subscription allows access to four devices simultaneously and is priced at 999 per annum while a diamond subscription has a sticker price of Rs 350 per annum for two devices. The gold pack which supposedly allows access to all content on Waves does not have a price tag attached in the subscription area.  

    In August, Prasar Bharati invited TV channels to join the platform, introducing a revenue-sharing model. Under this initiative, participating broadcasters receive 65 per cent of the ad revenue, while Prasar Bharati retains 35 per cent. Waves is offering t in SD, HD, and 4K, initially supporting 10 million concurrent users with scalability to 100 million.

  • Best Monsoon Trip Destinations in India and How a Personal Loan Can Help

    Best Monsoon Trip Destinations in India and How a Personal Loan Can Help

    India, with its diverse landscapes, offers some of the most breathtaking destinations to visit during the monsoon season. The rains bring a new life to the surroundings, making everything look lush, green, and mesmerizing. While monsoon travel can be a unique and beautiful experience, it can also come with unexpected expenses. This is where a personal loan for travel can help make your dream monsoon trip a reality without financial stress. Here’s a look at the best monsoon destinations in India and how a personal loan can facilitate your travel plans.

    Best Monsoon Trip Destinations in India

    Munnar, Kerala

    Why Visit: Munnar, with its rolling tea plantations and mist-covered hills, is a visual treat during the monsoon. The rain enhances the greenery, and the waterfalls are in full flow, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

    Top Attractions: Attukal Waterfalls, Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak, and tea gardens.

    Goa

    Why Visit: Known for its beaches, Goa transforms during the monsoon with lush greenery and fewer tourists. It’s the perfect time for a serene vacation, enjoying the scenic beauty and monsoon festivals.

    Top Attractions: Dudhsagar Waterfalls, spice plantations, and the vibrant monsoon festival of Sao Joao.

    Lonavala, Maharashtra

    Why Visit: A popular getaway for residents of Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala offers picturesque landscapes, misty mountains, and numerous waterfalls that come alive during the monsoon.

    Top Attractions: Bhushi Dam, Karla and Bhaja Caves, and the lush greenery of the Sahyadri range.

    Coorg, Karnataka

    Why Visit: Known as the Scotland of India, Coorg’s lush coffee plantations and misty hills are breathtaking during the monsoon. The rain enhances the natural beauty and tranquility of this region.

    Top Attractions: Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, and coffee plantations.

    Udaipur, Rajasthan

    Why Visit: While Rajasthan is known for its arid climate, Udaipur during the monsoon is a sight to behold. The lakes fill up, and the surrounding Aravalli Hills turn green, offering a refreshing change.

    Top Attractions: Lake Pichola, City Palace, and Monsoon Palace.

    Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

    Why Visit: One of the wettest places on Earth, Cherrapunji showcases the monsoon in all its glory. The lush landscapes, living root bridges, and numerous waterfalls make it a unique destination.

    Top Attractions: Nohkalikai Falls, Double Decker Living Root Bridge, and Mawsmai Caves.

    Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand

    Why Visit: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Valley of Flowers blooms in vibrant colors during the monsoon, offering a magical landscape of diverse flora against the backdrop of the Himalayas.

    Top Attractions: Trekking trails, a variety of wildflowers, and the serene beauty of the Himalayas.

    How a Personal Loan Can Help

    Covering Travel Expenses

    Airfare and Transportation: Monsoon travel can sometimes mean higher transportation costs due to fewer flights and trains. A personal loan can cover these expenses, ensuring you reach your destination comfortably.

    Local Travel: Hiring cabs or renting vehicles for local travel can add to the cost. A personal loan can help manage these additional expenses without hassle.

    Accommodation Costs

    Comfortable Stays: Monsoon destinations might require you to stay in well-equipped accommodations to avoid any inconvenience due to weather conditions. A personal loan can help you book comfortable and safe lodging.

    Upgraded Experience: Opting for better accommodations with amenities can enhance your travel experience. A personal loan can provide the extra funds needed for such upgrades.

    Emergency Funds

    Unexpected Expenses: Travel plans can sometimes face unexpected disruptions like road closures or medical emergencies. Having a personal loan can provide a financial cushion for such unforeseen events.

    Medical Emergencies: Monsoon travel can sometimes lead to health issues. A personal loan can cover medical expenses, ensuring you get the necessary care without worrying about costs.

    Travel Insurance

    Comprehensive Coverage: Travel insurance is crucial, especially during the monsoon. A personal loan can help you purchase a comprehensive insurance policy that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and other travel-related risks.

    Peace of Mind: Knowing that you are covered financially in case of any mishaps allows you to enjoy your trip without constant worry.

    Activity and Sightseeing Costs

    Tours and Excursions: Monsoon destinations offer unique experiences such as boat rides, guided tours, and treks. These activities can be expensive, and a personal loan can help you indulge in them without straining your budget.

    Entry Fees and Tickets: Many tourist spots charge entry fees or require tickets for specific activities. A personal loan can cover these costs, allowing you to explore all attractions.

    Conclusion

    Monsoon travel in India offers a unique and enriching experience with its lush landscapes, vibrant cultures, and serene surroundings. However, the associated costs can sometimes be daunting. A personal loan can help cover these expenses, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable trip. By understanding the benefits and managing your finances wisely, you can embark on a memorable monsoon adventure across India’s most beautiful destinations.

  • India can be the post-production hub of the world: I&B minister Anurag Thakur

    India can be the post-production hub of the world: I&B minister Anurag Thakur

    Mumbai: “International Film Festival of India (IFFI) has become a platform for film directors from all over the world to showcase their work. I am sure that India will become a hub for co-production, post-production, film shooting, content, and also for the technology partners,” said the union minister for information & broadcasting and youth affairs & sports Anurag Thakur, during the inauguration ceremony of the 53rd edition of the International Film Festival of India at Panaji, Goa.

    Thakur added that his vision is to make India the most sought-after destination for film shoots and post-production, backed by the talent of our people and the innovation of our industry leaders.

    The minister went on to say that his vision for IFFI isn’t limited to a single event, but rather what IFFI should be when India celebrates its 100th year of independence, when we switch from Amrit Mahotsav to Amrit Kaal. “We aim to make India a powerhouse of content creation, especially regional cinema, by scaling up regional festivals. India can be the post-production hub of the world by leveraging the immense tech talent amongst our skilled youth,” he added.

    “For the first time, gala premieres of Indian, global, and OTT films will be held at IFFI, including the premiere of the fourth season of the globally acclaimed series Fauda, which features some of the biggest Israeli stars in the world today. I would also like to share that the next season of this show will also be launched at IFFI,” Thakur added.

    The minister further congratulated celebrated Spanish filmmaker Carlos Saura for winning the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award this year. He also announced that the Indian Film Personality of the Year award will be conferred to South Indian actor Chiranjeevi.

    While sharing the achievements, Thakur pinpointed the importance of the Film Bazaar, which is being organised on the sidelines of IFFI. “For the first time, IFFI has augmented the scope of the ‘Film Bazaar’ by introducing ‘Country Pavilions,’” he added.

  • 53rd IFFI: 12 international and 3 India films to compete for Golden Peacock Award

    53rd IFFI: 12 international and 3 India films to compete for Golden Peacock Award

    Mumbai: The 53rd edition of the International Film Festival of India is all set to begin from 20 to 28 November in Goa. During the festival, 15 films will compete for the coveted Golden Peacock at IFFI. The entertainment-packed line-up comprises 12 international and three Indian films that represent emerging trends in the aesthetics and politics of art.

    Since the very first Golden Peacock was awarded in the third edition of IFFI, the prize has been among the most sought-after film awards in Asia.

    The jury tasked with the impossible job of picking a winner this year comprises of Israeli writer and film director Nadav Lapid, American producer Jinko Gotoh, French film editor Pascale Chavance, French documentary filmmaker, film critic, and journalist Javier Angulo Barturen, and India’s very own film director Sudipto Sen.

    The 12 international films include Perfect Number, Red Shoes, A Minor, No End, Mediterranean Fever, When the waves are gone, I have Electric Dreams, Cold as Marble, The Line, Seven Dogs, Maariya: The Ocean Angel, and Nezouh.

    And in the thick of the competition this year, the three Indian movies that are running for this prominent award are The Kashmir Files, The Storyteller, and Kurangu Pedal.

  • IFFI invites media delegates to register for its 53rd edition

    IFFI invites media delegates to register for its 53rd edition

    Mumbai: The 53rd edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), has invited media delegates to be a part of the festival. The festival, which will be held in Goa from 20 – 28 November will showcase contemporary and classic films from India and around the globe.

    At IFFI, the awaiting media delegates are filmmakers, actors, technicians, critics, academicians, not to mention fellow film enthusiasts. All of them will congregate in the tourist state of Goa to immerse themselves in an ocean of cinematic celebration and inspiration.

    IFFI said that it will celebrate the joy of cinema, the vibrant beauty of the stories these films tell, and the eclectic variety of the lives, aspirations, struggles and dreams of the filmmakers themselves. Partake in the celebration of films which happens in, on and off the screens. The festival will bring not only cinematic excellence from India and across the world, but also the opportunity to be inspired by an array of masterclasses, panel discussions, seminars and other conversations.

    Information and communication, IFFI added, has a central role in the success of the festival, in propagating film culture, in cultivating genuine love for the art, in helping people soak themselves in the breadth and depth of the human condition.

    One can be a media delegate if one has completed 21 years of age as on 1 January, 2022 and belongs to a print, electronic, or a digital / online media organisation. The link for registration is https://my.iffigoa.org/extranet/media/