Tag: Karan Johar

  • Tyaani Jewellery unveils Shefali Shah as first face of ‘Forces of Tyaani’ campaign

    Tyaani Jewellery unveils Shefali Shah as first face of ‘Forces of Tyaani’ campaign

    MUMBAI: When Karan Johar isn’t directing blockbusters, he’s apparently scripting cultural movements in gold. The latest chapter of Tyaani Jewellery’s journey sparkles with rebellion, emotion, and unapologetic individuality.

    Enter ‘Forces of Tyaani’—a campaign that breaks the traditional bridal mould and instead makes space for women who own their story, one gemstone at a time.

    Tyaani Jewellery by Karan Johar launched the first leg of its campaign on 2 June 2025, with acclaimed actor Shefali Shah as its inaugural brand ambassador. Known for her fierce presence on screen and even fiercer opinions off it, Shah sets the tone for what the brand calls a new era of fine jewellery. Her campaign visuals flaunt heritage-inspired artistry—crafted in gold, cut and uncut diamonds, and precious gemstones—while weaving in a narrative that celebrates strength over sparkle.

    The campaign plans to introduce over 10 such ambassadors in the coming weeks. Each face, according to the brand, is a force of their own, having carved out success on their own terms. From actors and artists to changemakers, every reveal will add a new layer to the evolving idea of luxury, framed by real stories, real women, and real jewellery.

    “We are truly excited about this new chapter. ‘Forces of Tyaani’ lies at the very heart of our brand philosophy—redefining luxury not by uniformity or status, but by celebrating individuality”, said Tyaani Jewellery founder Johar. “At its core, the campaign champions strength, authenticity, and innovation—the very pillars on which Tyaani was built. It’s a moment of pride and sheer joy to welcome Shefali to the Tyaani family”.

    With a presence in seven Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, Lucknow, and Chandigarh, Tyaani is set to open its newest outlet in Ahmedabad on 8 June. The brand also retails online at tyaani.com, ensuring these talismans of self-expression are just a click away.

    Through this 360-degree roll-out, Tyaani aims to blur the lines between ornament and identity. Jewellery here is not just about aesthetics; it’s about emotion, intention, and self-affirmation—a fitting narrative for an audience that seeks substance with shine.

  • Tommy Hilfiger hits Mumbai runway with Hindi cinema glam and fashionable chatter

    Tommy Hilfiger hits Mumbai runway with Hindi cinema glam and fashionable chatter

    MUMBAI: Mumbai had its fashion radar dialled to high style as Tommy Hilfiger touched down in the city on 15 April 2025, blending American chic with Hindi cinema glitter. The day saw Mumbai’s fashion elite and top celebrities mingling amid bold styles and vibrant banter, underlining the designer’s deepening ties with India’s fashion capital.

    Hilfiger’s day kicked off at the Tommy Hilfiger store at Jio World Drive in Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai’s go-to luxe address. He joined a lively panel discussion with actress and philanthropist Manushi Chhillar and creative dynamo Sarah-Jane Dias. The trio exchanged insights on global style trends and cultural interplay, much to the delight of fashion enthusiasts.

    As night fell, the fashion fiesta moved to the iconic Taj Chambers at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. With views of the Arabian Sea and Gateway of India, the dinner was an intimate affair, brimming with glamour and cultural flair. Hindi cinema A-listers such as Karan Johar, Sara Ali Khan, Ibrahim Ali Khan, Aditya Roy Kapur, cricketer Shikhar Dhawan, and singer Guru Randhawa added star wattage to the exclusive guest list.

    Infused with Hilfiger’s hallmark energy and a splash of Mumbai’s unique style quotient, the evening highlighted the designer’s commitment to India’s vibrant fashion and entertainment landscape.

  • Match made in mayhem as BGMI hosts India’s biggest in-game wedding

    Match made in mayhem as BGMI hosts India’s biggest in-game wedding

    MUMBAI: Love is in the (digital) air as Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) pulls off the unthinkable, hosting India’s Biggest In-Game Wedding, turning virtual battlegrounds into a full-blown mandap. The three-day celebration wasn’t just a stunt, it was an emotion, a testament to how gaming isn’t just about wins and losses, but bonds forged between players.

    At the heart of this heartwarming saga is Tanupreet and Jaspreet, a couple from Meerut who met over grenades and giggles inside BGMI’s multiplayer world. What began as casual team-ups soon turned into connection requests, Synergy milestones, and eventually, a virtual ‘Love Connection’ culminating in a grand digital wedding that redefined matchmaking.

    From mehendi on April 8 to a sangeet on April 9 and the final shaadi ceremony on 11 April , BGMI spared no pixel. Legendary fashion designer Ritu Beri designed custom BGMI-themed wedding avatars, while singer Benny Dayal performed live in-game during the Sangeet, marking his virtual concert debut. Meanwhile, celebrity guests like Karan Johar and Neeraj Chopra played the ultimate FOMO card online: “Mera invite kahan hai?”

    “BGMI today is not just about playing, it’s about belonging” said Krafton India associate director and lead of marketing Srinjoy Das. He added  “This is one of our most emotional and culturally rich campaigns yet that brings together fashion, music, relationships, and storytelling all inside a game. It’s a wedding but also a powerful metaphor for how BGMI brings people together.”

    “BGMI gave us more than just a game it gave us each other,” shared Tanupreet and Jaspreet. “From random team-ups to a real bond, we never imagined it would lead to this. To be married inside the game that introduced us is beyond special.”

    But the celebrations don’t stop there. BGMI is inviting its 200-million-strong community to join the Shaadi Duo event from 20 May to 1 June. Players can team up in Duo Mode, take on challenges, and earn the limited-edition Space Gift Box, a reward symbolising in-game connections.

    Here’s how to join the festivities:

    1    Pair up with your bestie, bae, or battle buddy

    2    Play Classic Mode in Duo

    3    Complete challenges to unlock the exclusive gift

    Importantly, this isn’t just for couples, it’s for everyone who’s found friendship, rivalry, or romance in-game. Features like Synergy, Connection Requests, and Love Connection were central to Tanupreet and Jaspreet’s journey from teammates to soulmates. BGMI wants more players to explore and experience those social layers.

    The campaign, crafted by DDB Mudra Group, didn’t just stop at gameplay. Influencer wedding invitation unboxings, meme-worthy celebrity posts, and emotional fan reactions turned this into a full-fledged cultural moment. BGMI successfully blurred the line between reality and digital, redefining what a game can truly mean.

    So, while others play for the chicken dinner, Tanupreet and Jaspreet played for forever.

    And in a world where love can blossom in a lobby and end at a mandap, BGMI proves that sometimes your plus one is just one headshot away.

  • Dharma Productions steps into global film distribution with Bhumika Tewari

    Dharma Productions steps into global film distribution with Bhumika Tewari

    MUMBAI : Dharma Productions is set to make its mark in global cinema with the appointment of Bhumika Tewari as head of content acquisition and film distribution worldwide. Stepping into film distribution for the first time, the production house aims to broaden its reach and bring diverse Indian narratives to a wider audience.

    Under Tewari’s leadership, Dharma will acquire high-quality films across multiple languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Punjabi, and Marathi, while independently distributing its own productions and third-party films. To streamline operations and strengthen ties with regional talent, the company will establish distribution hubs in key locations such as Delhi, Punjab, Hyderabad, and Chennai.

    Commenting on the appointment, Dharma Productions chairman Karan Johar said, “Stepping into film distribution is a major leap for Dharma, and we are excited to have Bhumika lead this initiative. Her expertise in content acquisition and distribution aligns perfectly with our vision of expanding Indian storytelling to global audiences.”

    Dharma Productions CEO Apoorva Mehta added, “Bhumika joins us at a crucial time as we evolve into an end-to-end content powerhouse. Her experience will be instrumental in shaping our journey as a key distributor of compelling stories worldwide.”

    Expressing her enthusiasm, Tewari stated, “Joining Dharma Productions is an extraordinary opportunity to champion Indian cinema on a global scale. I look forward to expanding Dharma’s reach, fostering regional storytelling, and ensuring diverse narratives find their audience.”

    Before joining Dharma, Tewari served as senior vice president of film acquisition & revenue at Zee Entertainment, overseeing the distribution of over 150 titles and managing content strategy across multiple platforms. Her appointment signals a bold new era for Dharma Productions as it strengthens its foothold in both national and international markets.

     

  • Ayushmann Khurrana named brand ambassador for 25 Ficci Frames

    Ayushmann Khurrana named brand ambassador for 25 Ficci Frames

    MUMBAI: Lights, camera, celebration! As Ficci Frames gears up for its 25 anniversary, Indian cinema superstar Ayushmann Khurrana has been announced as the brand ambassador for the event, becoming the face of India’s media & entertainment industry. This silver jubilee edition promises to combine star power, disruptive innovation, and global relevance, making it a landmark occasion for India’s thriving creative landscape.

    This year’s theme, “RISE: Redefining Innovation, Sustainability, and Excellence,” reflects Ficci Frames’ transformative role in shaping the narratives, creativity, and evolution of India’s media and entertainment industry. Over 25 years, the event has emerged as the premier platform for industry collaboration, bringing together global leaders, policymakers, and creative talents to discuss the future of entertainment.

    Expressing his excitement, Ficci Media chair & entertainment committee and Jiostar CEO- entertainment, Kevin Vaz said, “The silver jubilee edition of Ficci Frames is a celebration of 25 years of excellence and a tribute to the legacy we have built in shaping India’s Media & Entertainment industry. Ayushmann Khurrana, with his incredible journey of creativity, innovation, and connection with audiences, represents the very ethos of Ficci Frames. His association will elevate this milestone event and inspire future generations of storytellers and creators.”

    Sharing his thoughts on being the first brand ambassador for Ficci Frames, Khurrana said, “It is a huge honour for me to be announced as the first Brand Ambassador for Ficci Frames in its silver jubilee year! As someone who arrived in Mumbai from Chandigarh with nothing but dreams in my eyes, I could never have imagined this incredible journey, one where my work has not only touched lives but also become a part of India’s rich pop culture tapestry. In my new role, I am committed to working closely with the exceptional Ficci team to champion disruption, celebrate innovation, and highlight the excellence our industry consistently delivers.”

    Ficci Frames has long been a beacon of leadership in India’s creative ecosystem. Previously chaired by Yash Chopra and co-chaired by Karan Johar, the event is now led by Kevin Vaz, alongside co-chairs Meta India VP & MD Sandhya Devanathan, and Warner Bros. Discovery GM, south Asia Arjun Nohwar.

    Notable global icons, such as Hugh Jackman, James Murdoch, and Mukesh Ambani, have graced the Ficci Frames stage in the past. Indian cinema legends like Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and Amitabh Bachchan have also contributed to its star-studded history.

    Held annually in Mumbai, the silver jubilee event promises to dive into cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, virtual reality, digital content creation, and the metaverse, while continuing to highlight traditional media. The programme will feature keynote addresses, B2B meetings, masterclasses, policy roundtables, and the Best Animated Frames Awards (BAF).

    With Khurrana leading the charge, this year’s Ficci Frames is set to redefine the boundaries of media and entertainment innovation, paving the way for the next 25 years of creative excellence.

  • Pickleball goes big: Indian Open League 2025 set to smash expectations!

    Pickleball goes big: Indian Open League 2025 set to smash expectations!

    MUMBAI: Move over cricket, there’s a new sport in town stealing the limelight—and it’s pickleball!

    In a grand press conference that had as much star power as it did sporting passion, Globalsports announced the launch of the Indian Open League 2025 and the Global Sports Pro and Challenger League—set to be Asia’s largest pickleball tournament.

    What makes this event a big dill? Ten city-based teams, a massive $125,000 prize pool, and Indian cinema glamour, all coming together to elevate pickleball from a niche game to a nationwide phenomenon.

    Fans were buzzing as Globalsports revealed the star-studded roster of teams and their illustrious owners, including celebrities, business moguls, and professional athletes.

    Here’s who’s bringing the heat:

    1.  Mumbai Chhatrapati Warriors – Bollywood star Janhvi Kapoor leads the charge.

    2.  Ahmedabad Olympians – Anmol Patel and Aditya Gandhi take the reins.

    3.  Bengaluru Blazers – Entrepreneur Amrita Deora holds the torch.

    4.  Chennai Cool Cats – The Ruia family trio—Anshuman, Radhika, and Yudi—represent Chennai.

    5.  Delhi Snipers – Jai Gandhi and the Bajaj family aim for bullseye.

    6.  Goa Gladiators – A dynamic mix of Samrat Javeri, Atul Rawat, and others lead this team.

    7.  Hyderabad Vikings – Techpreneur Akshay Reddy helms this southern powerhouse.

    8.  Jaipur Jawans – Bollywood director Luv Ranjan joins comedian Anubhav Singh Bassi for Jaipur.

    9.  Kolkata Kings – The city of joy is led by Varun Vora and Rohan Khemka.

    10. Nashik Ninjas – Karishma Thakker heads this swashbuckling squad.

    This isn’t just a sports league; it’s a brewing revolution.

    Speaking about the league’s ambitions, Globalsports founder Hemal Jain said, “Our goal is to elevate pickleball to unprecedented heights. This league is a celebration of talent and unity, showcasing the incredible growth of the sport in India.”

    Globalsports co-founder Shashank Khaitan added, “Pickleball is not just a game; it’s a movement. We aim to inspire young talent and position this sport as a mainstream sensation in India.”

    Indian cinema’s king of drama, Karan Johar, has swapped the director’s chair for a pickleball court, becoming the league’s brand ambassador. With his trademark enthusiasm, KJo quipped, “Pickleball is all about inclusion, fun, and passion. I am thrilled to bring this incredible sport to the forefront.”

    The Indian Open League will run from 3–9 February 2025, at Nesco in Goregaon, Mumbai. With over 1,800 players battling it out on 25+ courts, the event promises a mix of pro and amateur matches, drawing participants from over 15 cities. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned player, this tournament has something for everyone.

    What’s in It for fans? From high-stakes matches to the electric atmosphere created by Indian cinema’s brightest stars, this tournament is shaping up to be a can’t-miss spectacle.

    Who will walk away with the grand prize? Which city will dominate the courts? Can pickleball become the next big thing in Indian sports? Only time shall tell.

    Under the leadership of Hemal Jain and co-founders Niraj Jain, Divyesh Jain, and Suresh Bhansali, Globalsports is leaving no stone unturned in making this tournament a game-changer. With Indian cinema heavyweights like Shashank Khaitan and Yuvraj Ruia onboard, expect a perfect blend of entertainment and sportsmanship.

  • Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions hires senior distribution executive?

    Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions hires senior distribution executive?

    MUMBAI: First came Adar Poonawalla who handed out  Rs 1000 crore to Karan Johar for a 50 per cent stake in his Dharma Productions. Now Dharma Productions  CEO Apoorva Mehta and Karan are clearly indicating  the direction the company is taking – becoming  a complete studio a la YRF. That is it wants to produce and distribute its own releases as well as possibly do it for others.

    Hence, the alleged hiring of former Zee Studios  senior acquisitions and distribution executive Bhumika Tewari, if reports are to be believed. (Actually, Bhumika’s  linkedin profile has her as recently as  one week ago reposting  a post from Roy Kapur Films about  Zee Studios’ release of the Shahid Kapoor-Pooja Hegde starrer Deva on 31 January)

    Bhumika has a rock solid film distribution background. She has spent almost 12 years at Zee Studios heading worldwide theatrical distribution and then content acquisition. She also has more than 16 years on the exhibition side working with Fun Multiplex (thirteen and a half years) and Cinepolis (two years eight months)

    She has been behind some big blockbusters like Good Newz and Kesari while at Zee Studios.

    Confirmations about Bhumika joining Dharma were not available from anyone at the time of writing.  Keep watching this space. 
     

  • Nina Lath’s film festival initiative Cinevesture makes major announcements

    Nina Lath’s film festival initiative Cinevesture makes major announcements

    MUMBAI:  You’ve got to hand it to Nina Lath. The former NFDC MD-turned-producer-turned festival organiser does not let anything get in her way. If she wants something, she goes out and gets it.

    Like she has done with her initiative Cinevesture which organised  the  inaugural edition of  the Cinevesture International Film Festival (CIFF).

    The festival is  back along with a market rebranded as *CinéV-CHD*, which will take place on 20-23 March 2025 in Chandigarh.

    Not just that: CIFF has also got into a relationship with the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles (IFFLA).

    Let’s have a bit of a recap of  the inaugural edition of CIFF. It garnered significant attention and hosted prominent Indian film personalities including Karan Johar, Boman Irani, Sudhir Mishra, Shekhar Kapur, and Richa Chadha.

    Under Cinevesture, Lath has also designed CineV to be a a series of film markets that are designed to facilitate interactions between film professionals, investors, and distributors.  These markets will serve as a hub for private investors and industry insiders to explore co-production opportunities, secure funding, and forge strategic alliances.

    CinéV-CHD 2025 marks the first such market. Registrations for it  will open from  14 January 2025.

    Starting in 2025, Cinevesture will partner with IFFLA, the leading south Asian film festival based in Los Angeles. The partnership, *CinéV-IFFLA*, aligns the mission of both entities to support innovative storytelling and foster global collaborations.

    This collaboration will integrate south Asian stories curated by Cinevesture for CinéV-IFFLA into IFFLA Industry Days along with IFFLA’s selected projects from north America.

    Industry Days, which takes  place during the annual festival, is a pivotal forum that connects bridges south Asian filmmakers with Hollywood producers, offering opportunities such as pitch competitions, panels, masterclasses, industry round tables and networking events.

    The twenty third edition of IFFLA is scheduled on 6-10 May  2025 in Los Angeles. Submissions for IFFLA’s pitch competition open on 3 December  2025 at www.indianfilmfestival.org.

    CineV-CHD and CinéV-IFFLA also mark the beginning of Cinevesture’s broader initiative to build a network for investor-creator collaborations in south Asia and the diaspora. These events will focus on linking filmmakers with potential partners to develop projects that align with market demands.

    Beyond film screenings, the festival will host a series of insightful conversations and panel discussions. These sessions will delve into various aspects of film making, including script writing, directing, producing, and distribution. Renowned industry experts will share their knowledge and experiences, providing valuable insights for aspiring filmmakers and industry professionals.

    Says Cinevesture founder & CEO Nina Lath: “Unlike other sectors , film production often presents a challenge for private investors due to its intangible nature and relatively short shelf life. Yet the passion for cinematic storytelling and potential for substantial returns makes it an enticing opportunity. With CinéV, our mission is to bridge this gap by connecting pre-vetted projects with credible producers and investors, aiming for  mutually beneficial outcomes for all involved. As we bring the second edition of our event to Chandigarh, we are excited about the growing momentum and are proud to collaborate with IFFLA, a festival that has earned the utmost respect in the Indian film industry.”

    Adds IFFLA founder Christina Marouda:  “The partnership with Cinevesture comes at the perfect time for IFFLA as it officially expands its twenty third year legacy and footprint into the development of south Asian focused content. We could not think of a better partner than Nina and her new venture to create an ecosystem of talented storytellers and attract the right investors for these curated projects. This filmmaker-investor curated track is a gap we’re filling in with this endeavor. I’m excited for the IFFLA and Cinevesture teams to be joining hands, and cannot wait to see the results of such a unique and timely collaboration.”

  • AIU & Manav Rachna to host 2024 FISU World University Championship Shooting

    AIU & Manav Rachna to host 2024 FISU World University Championship Shooting

    Mumbai: Over 250 university shooting athletes from more than 25 countries, along with a 33-member Indian team, will compete in the FISU World University Championship Shooting, taking place in New Delhi from 9 to 13 November. This is the first time the championship has been held in India, with the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) overseeing the event and Manav Rachna International Institute of Research & Studies (MRIIRS) as the host. The competition will occur at the Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range, with an opening ceremony on 8 November at the Manav Rachna campus. Athletes will compete in various shooting disciplines, including rifle, pistol, and shotgun events.

    AIU president Prof Vinay Kumar Pathak stated, “On behalf of the Association of Indian Universities, I warmly welcome all international university athletes and officials to New Delhi for the FISU World University Championship Shooting 2024. Hosting this event is an honor, and we are deeply grateful to Manav Rachna and our partners for their invaluable support. We look forward to an exciting championship and the camaraderie it will bring.”

    “This championship is more than a competition; it represents our commitment to fostering athletic talent at the university level,” said MREI president and Manav Rachna University (MRU) and MRIIRS chancellor Dr Prashant Bhalla. “Bringing the FISU World University Championship to India is a tremendous honor, and we look forward to supporting these dedicated student-athletes as they demonstrate their skill and determination on a global stage.”

    The event will feature categories such as the 10m Air Rifle, 50m Rifle 3 Position, Trap, and Skeet. Notable Olympic events include the 10m Air Pistol for men and women, Mixed Team events in Trap and Skeet, and the 25m Rapid Fire Pistol. By hosting this international championship, Manav Rachna continues to support the development of sports champions and empower the next generation of athletes.

    MREI vice president and FISU-WUCS organizing committee president Amit Bhalla remarked, “The event’s impact extends far beyond sport, offering participants a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and camaraderie. Hosting such a significant event is a testament to India’s growing presence in the global sports arena and to Manav Rachna’s commitment to excellence in sports education.”

    Top international athletes, including Paris Olympic bronze medalist Audrey Gogniat from Switzerland and German world record holder Anna Janssen, will compete alongside emerging Indian Olympians Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar and Sift Kaur Samra. With world champions and rising stars in attendance, this championship aims to inspire the next generation through talent and dedication to athletic excellence.

    FISU president Leonz Eder said, “As FISU continues to elevate the standards of university sports internationally, the championship provides an exceptional stage for participants to meet like-minded peers, celebrate their achievements, and create lifelong memories.”

    The FISU World University Championship Shooting will engage audiences worldwide, connecting young sports enthusiasts across major universities and colleges. This event underscores FISU’s commitment to providing a world-class experience and celebrating university athletes’ dedication.

    Through its partnership with FISU, Manav Rachna aims to make this championship an enriching experience that fosters sportsmanship and international understanding for all participants.

  • Deepak Lamba joins Fashion Entrepreneur Fund as CEO

    Deepak Lamba joins Fashion Entrepreneur Fund as CEO

    Mumbai: The Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF) appoints media veteran Deepak Lamba as chief executive officer, positioning him to spearhead its vision of fostering cutting-edge innovation within the fashion sector. With over 20 years in media, lifestyle, and entertainment, Lamba brings extensive experience launching high-impact initiatives for prominent companies, ensuring his role at FEF will be transformative for the fund and its fashion entrepreneur partners.

    In his new position, Lamba aims to advance FEF’s unique venture studio model, which integrates strategic mentorship with capital funding to accelerate growth for budding fashion and lifestyle brands. “I believe that powerful, meaningful experiences can shape industries and inspire individuals,” Lamba stated. “Joining FEF is an opportunity to build platforms that offer unparalleled value, in both business and personal growth.”

    With FEF valued at Rs 540 crore, Lamba will direct strategic partnerships, including a collaboration with Dharmatic to launch an annual web series, enhancing FEF’s reach within the fashion industry. The fund’s investor pool includes influential figures like Akshay Kumar, Karan Johar, Ravi Jaipuria, Naveen Jindal, and Vinod Dugar, highlighting FEF’s robust network and support in achieving unicorn status by 2028.

    FEF’s chairman Vagish Pathak and founder Sanjay Nigam shared, “With Deepak at the helm of the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund, we are poised to ignite innovation and drive sustainable growth in the industry, empowering visionary entrepreneurs to turn their dreams into reality.”

    Lamba previously led Times Strategic Solutions Ltd. and World Wide Media and held significant leadership roles at Bloomberg UTV and Viacom18, showcasing his proven record of strategic growth. His appointment marks a pivotal step in FEF’s ambition to nurture India’s next generation of disruptive fashion brands.