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  • Hospitality & Tourism Power India’s Economy: A Look at Key States

    Hospitality & Tourism Power India’s Economy: A Look at Key States

    Tourism in India has always been a reflection of the nation’s cultural depth, spiritual roots, and growing appetite for modern travel experiences. Over the years, it has transformed from a seasonal sector into a year-round economic powerhouse, attracting not only domestic visitors but also international tourists seeking diverse experiences. At the 55th Annual Convention of the Federation of Hotels and Restaurants Association of India (FHRAI) held in Bengaluru on September 20, 2025, industry leaders, policymakers, and experts came together to analyze the future of tourism in India. The discussions revolved around religious tourism, heritage preservation, wellness tourism, and the changing dynamics introduced by Generation Z.

    One clear takeaway from the event was that India is witnessing a tourism boom unlike ever before, and this surge is redefining the way both governments and private players approach infrastructure, hospitality, and visitor experience.

    Religious Tourism: The Cornerstone of India’s Visitor Economy

    India’s identity has always been deeply intertwined with spirituality and faith. Temples, mosques, churches, monasteries, and gurudwaras across the country attract millions of devotees and visitors each year. Recent numbers highlight how religious tourism is no longer a niche segment but a dominant force driving India’s travel economy.

    For instance, Varanasi—one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and a major Hindu pilgrimage hub—witnessed a staggering 11 crore visitors in 2024 alone. This exponential growth underscores how faith-based journeys are playing a transformative role in shaping India’s tourism landscape.

    Adding perspective at the FHRAI convention, Sri Ganesh Pai from ISKCON Bengaluru South emphasized,

    “Spiritual tourism is all about inclusivity. Earlier, religious travel was dominated by the elderly, but today, even Gen Z is deeply interested in exploring spiritual destinations. Interestingly, data from travel portals show that 80–90% of top searches for tourism in India are for religious places. Young travelers are blending faith with adventure, creating a whole new narrative.”

    This shift indicates that religious tourism is no longer perceived as solemn or one-dimensional. Instead, it is now tied to multi-dimensional experiences—visitors pray, explore, learn about heritage, and then add elements such as trekking, cultural tours, and wellness retreats to their itineraries.

    Puducherry’s Rise as a Global Tourism Hotspot

    While religious destinations remain dominant, cities and states across India are actively positioning themselves on the global tourism map. Puducherry, a former French colony known for its colonial architecture, spiritual retreats, and serene beaches, has been recognized as the second-best place in the world for tourism, as announced by Sri K. Lakshminarayanan, Tourism Minister of Puducherry at the event.

    He shared that Puducherry attracted nearly 19 lakh visitors in 2024, contributing around ₹25,000 crores to the state’s economy through the tourism and hospitality sector. The government is now focusing on large-scale infrastructure development to further strengthen its position as a world-class destination.

    “Tourism is not just about visitor numbers; it’s about building ecosystems,” Sri Lakshminarayanan stressed, highlighting how investment in roads, hospitality services, cultural preservation, and eco-tourism will ensure Puducherry continues to rise as a global hub.

    Karnataka’s Heritage: A Treasure Trove of Opportunities

    If Puducherry’s charm lies in its beaches and French heritage, Karnataka’s strength lies in its vast collection of historical and cultural treasures. Dr. Rajendra, Director of Tourism for the Government of Karnataka, revealed that the state is home to:

    • Over 25,000 historical and heritage sites

    • Four UNESCO World Heritage Sites

    • 800 officially notified cultural sites

    “The potential of Karnataka’s tourism is immense,” Dr. Rajendra noted. “The new Tourism Policy introduced earlier this year emphasizes public-private partnerships as a means of not only driving the state’s economy but also creating sustainable employment opportunities.”

    Karnataka’s emphasis on collaboration between government and private stakeholders showcases a model that other states can emulate. By leveraging the state’s heritage alongside modern hospitality practices, Karnataka is positioning itself as a multi-vertical tourism destination catering to religious travelers, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts alike.

    The Wellness Tourism Wave: Merging Health with Travel

    Another area gaining momentum globally is wellness tourism—a sector where India, with its deep traditions of Ayurveda, yoga, and holistic healing, has a natural advantage. At the convention, Dr. Jazzy Nepram, Director of CHI The Spa and Health Club, Shangri-La, highlighted the importance of training and skilling professionals in the wellness sector.

    She emphasized that property owners often overlook the potential of collaborating with skilled individual wellness practitioners. By bridging this gap, hotels and resorts can both increase revenues and enhance service quality.

    Wellness travel is no longer just a luxury; it has become an essential part of post-pandemic tourism. Travelers now seek destinations that rejuvenate mind, body, and soul—whether through yoga retreats in Rishikesh, spa therapies in Kerala, or holistic wellness packages in luxury resorts. India stands poised to lead this global movement if it continues to invest in skill development and service standardization.

    Gen Z: The Game-Changers of the Hospitality Industry

    A recurring theme throughout the event was the influence of Generation Z on the tourism and hospitality industry. Unlike previous generations, Gen Z is adventurous, tech-savvy, and experience-driven. They seek authenticity, inclusivity, and diversity in their travel choices.

    Dr. Bhupesh Kumar, Principal-cum-Secretary at the Institute of Hotel Management Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition, Ranchi, noted that this demographic will be the primary drivers of hospitality growth in the future.

    “Employers in the tourism sector need to be more polished, skilled, and responsive to Gen Z’s preferences,” he said. “This generation values personalized service, sustainability, and cultural authenticity. Catering to them will be the key to unlocking future growth.”

    The industry is thus seeing a paradigm shift:

    • Hotels are moving from generic luxury to personalized, Instagram-worthy experiences.

    • Religious tourism packages now include adventure add-ons, catering to younger visitors.

    • Technology, from AI-driven booking systems to AR-enabled tours, is being integrated at every level to meet Gen Z’s expectations.

    The Road Ahead: Collaboration and Innovation

    The FHRAI convention underscored that India’s tourism future is multi-faceted and promising. With religious tourism witnessing record-breaking numbers, destinations like Puducherry achieving global recognition, heritage-rich states like Karnataka leveraging their cultural capital, and wellness tourism expanding rapidly, the sector is brimming with opportunities.

    However, challenges remain—ranging from sustainable infrastructure development to ensuring skilled manpower for hospitality and wellness services. The success of the sector will largely depend on how well public-private collaborations are fostered, and how inclusively stakeholders adapt to evolving visitor expectations.

    Conclusion: Tourism as a Catalyst for India’s Growth Story

    Tourism in India is no longer just about leisure; it has become a catalyst for economic growth, cultural preservation, and global recognition. As religious hubs like Varanasi draw crores of visitors, Puducherry establishes itself as a global favorite, and Karnataka champions heritage tourism, India is solidifying its place as one of the world’s most dynamic travel destinations.

    With the rise of wellness tourism and Gen Z’s unique influence, the sector is entering an exciting phase of transformation. As experts at the FHRAI convention concluded, the journey ahead is about innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration.

    If managed strategically, India’s tourism industry could well become one of the largest contributors to the national economy, while simultaneously showcasing the country’s timeless heritage and forward-looking spirit to the world.

  • Ahsaas Channa Plans to Direct: What’s Next for the Actress?

    Ahsaas Channa Plans to Direct: What’s Next for the Actress?

    In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian entertainment, actors are increasingly expanding their creative horizons beyond the screen. Among them, Ahsaas Channa, a familiar face to audiences who have followed her since childhood, has revealed that she harbors a deep desire to step into the world of direction. Best known for her natural performances in films, series, and most recently, Half CA Season 2, Ahsaas has now sparked conversations about what her future behind the camera might look like.

    A Journey That Began at Age Three

    For Ahsaas, acting wasn’t a decision she consciously made later in life — it was a craft she grew up with. Recalling her earliest memory of being in front of the camera, she shared that her very first job was an advertisement for a cough syrup when she was just three years old.

    “Meri pehli aur ek lauti job acting thi. I was 3-4 years old when I did my first ad for a cough syrup. My first film was Vaastu Shastra when I was 4 years old. Since then, I’ve just been acting. I don’t think that there’s anything else that I can do. At some point, I would also want to direct,” she reflected in a candid conversation.

    This early introduction to acting ensured that performance arts were never just a career path for her — they became second nature. Over the years, Ahsaas built her identity as an actor who could bring authenticity and relatability to the screen, whether it was through mainstream films, digital shows, or her web series appearances.

    Half CA Season 2: A Reflection of Real Struggles

    Ahsaas’s most recent outing, Half CA Season 2, earned her praise for her portrayal of the everyday struggles faced by CA aspirants. In a country where professional examinations are often associated with intense stress, societal expectations, and personal sacrifices, her character resonated deeply with viewers.

    Audiences applauded how she kept her performance refreshingly real, capturing not just the challenges of long study hours but also the emotional toll it takes on aspirants. The show highlighted the fine balance between personal life and academic responsibility, and Ahsaas’s acting became a strong anchor for the narrative.

    By lending her craft to such layered and socially relevant stories, Ahsaas has showcased that she is more than just an actor who takes on roles — she is an artist invested in substantial, meaningful storytelling.

    The Desire to Direct

    While acting continues to be her first love, Ahsaas’s growing interest in direction hints at her desire to broaden her creative journey. For an actor who has lived and breathed performance since her toddler years, direction could be the natural next step in her artistic evolution.

    Her curiosity about what happens behind the camera is not surprising. Many actors with years of experience eventually find themselves drawn to direction, often motivated by a wish to tell stories with their own creative vision. For Ahsaas, who has experienced the workings of the industry since childhood, stepping into direction might be her way of expanding her storytelling canvas.

    Although she has not announced any formal project or timeline for her directorial debut, her statement has sparked interest among fans and industry watchers alike. Many are already curious about the kinds of stories she would want to helm — would she bring the same realism that defines her acting choices, or experiment with something entirely different?

    Selective Choices, Strong Impact

    What makes Ahsaas stand out as an actor is her selectivity. Unlike many young performers who opt for quantity, she has consciously chosen projects that bring depth and nuance to her characters. Whether in web series or short films, she gravitates toward roles that leave a lasting impact on audiences.

    Her trajectory so far reflects a commitment to authenticity over glamor. Instead of chasing roles that simply guarantee visibility, she picks narratives that align with her artistic instincts. This has not only earned her admiration from critics but also built a loyal fan base that appreciates her integrity as an actor.

    Fans Await What’s Next

    With her career graph steadily rising, audiences are now eagerly waiting to see what Ahsaas Channa does next. Will she continue to surprise with unconventional acting choices, or will she begin preparing for her first stint behind the camera?

    Regardless of the direction she takes, what remains certain is that Ahsaas’s artistic journey is fueled by passion, curiosity, and a desire to grow. Her openness about wanting to direct suggests that she is ready to embrace challenges beyond acting — challenges that could redefine her career and open new avenues for her creativity.

    Conclusion

    From a three-year-old starring in her first advertisement to becoming a performer whose roles resonate with authenticity, Ahsaas Channa’s journey is a testament to persistence and passion. Acting may have been her first and only job, but her growing desire to direct signals an exciting new chapter waiting to unfold.

    With audiences already appreciating her thoughtful choices on-screen, her potential behind the camera holds the promise of equally meaningful storytelling. Whether she continues as an actor, ventures into direction, or balances both, one thing is clear — Ahsaas Channa is here to stay, and her best chapters are yet to be written.

  • The New-Age IT Guys of OTT Who Keep Raising the Bar

    The New-Age IT Guys of OTT Who Keep Raising the Bar

    OTT has changed the way we consume stories, and along with it, has given rise to a new set of stars who bring honesty, freshness, and relatability to the screen. These five actors are leading the charge, each in their own way, and together they represent the future of Indian storytelling

    Raghav Juyal : From being celebrated as the “King of Slow Motion” to making his mark as an actor, Raghav’s journey has been all about reinvention. His natural charm and raw presence make him stand out, and with his upcoming show Bads of Bollywood, he’s stepping into a daring new phase of his career. Raghav is showing us that he isn’t afraid to take risks, and that’s exactly what makes him exciting to watch.

    Adarsh Gourav: Bursting into the global spotlight with The White Tiger, Adarsh has since become one of the most fearless actors of his generation. He doesn’t shy away from complex or flawed characters — instead, he embraces them fully, giving performances that feel brutally real. Every project of his carries a stamp of authenticity, making him an actor whose work always leaves a mark.

    Ishaan Khatter : With boundless energy and a hunger to experiment, Ishaan keeps audiences guessing with his choices. Whether it’s light-hearted entertainers or intense dramas, he fits into both worlds with ease. His latest release Royals had him ruling the screen with a performance that showed maturity, depth, and a growing command over his craft. Ishaan is constantly evolving, and that makes him one of the most dynamic actors to follow.

    Ahaan Pandey : The youngest of the lot, Ahaan made his big-screen debut with Saiyaara, which first hit theatres and is now streaming on OTT. His fresh energy and screen presence immediately caught attention, marking him as one of the most promising newcomers. What makes Ahaan stand out is his ability to carry both boyish charm and sincerity on screen — a combination that makes audiences curious about what he’ll do next.

    Ibrahim Ali Khan : Carrying forward a legacy yet carving his own path, Ibrahim made a striking impression with his debut in Sarzameen, now streaming on OTT. With an easy screen presence and a natural intensity, he has shown that he’s more than just a star kid – he’s an actor to watch. Ibrahim balances confidence with vulnerability, and that makes his performances both engaging and relatable. His entry marks the arrival of a new voice in the OTT space.

  • Seerat Kapoor Calls Working with JD Chakravarthy a “Dream Come True” for Jatasya Dhruvam Maranam

    Seerat Kapoor Calls Working with JD Chakravarthy a “Dream Come True” for Jatasya Dhruvam Maranam

    A Dream Collaboration for Seerat Kapoor

    Sometimes, working with the legends we grew up admiring feels like a dream come true. For actress Seerat Kapoor, that dream recently became a reality when she shared the screen with iconic actor JD Chakravarthy in the upcoming pan-Indian thriller Jatasya Dhruvam Maranam.

    As anticipation builds for the film, JD Chakravarthy’s glowing words of praise for his co-star have further fueled excitement, marking a significant recognition of Seerat Kapoor’s talent.

    JD Chakravarthy’s Words of Praise

    Recalling his experience of working with Seerat, JD Chakravarthy expressed admiration for her versatility:

    “Seerat is one such actress I feel who is mad about films, like mad. She is a very multi-talented actor, but I was amazed to learn that she is not only an actor but also an amazing singer. She is also a talented dancer and choreographer, and to find someone who excels in all is very rare. I wish her all the very best for her future projects. I hope she rises and shines a lot.”

    Seerat Kapoor’s Heartfelt Response

    For Seerat Kapoor, who plays a raw and intense role in the thriller, the acknowledgment from JD Garu is a career-defining moment.

    “It is an absolute honor to receive such appreciation from JD sir. Having grown up watching his films, sharing the screen with him is an honor in itself. Working with him has been nothing short of a dream. To be acknowledged by someone I have looked up to is a memory I will forever treasure.”

    Seerat’s gratitude highlights not only her humility but also her deep respect for the veteran actor’s legacy.

     

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    Jatasya Dhruvam Maranam: Redefining the Thriller Genre

    With its mysterious storyline, layered emotions, and gripping narrative, Jatasya Dhruvam Maranam is set to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Featuring a stellar ensemble cast including JD Chakravarthy, Naresh Agastya, and Seerat Kapoor, the film promises a pan-Indian cinematic experience like no other.

    Positioned to redefine the thriller genre, the film is shaping up to be an unmissable theatrical spectacle.

  • Anjali Phougat’s Designer Dream Collection Shines at New York Fashion Week 2025

    Anjali Phougat’s Designer Dream Collection Shines at New York Fashion Week 2025

    New York, NY — September 2025 — Acclaimed designer Anjali Phougat, the visionary behind Designer Dream Collection (DDC), unveiled her latest couture line at New York Fashion Week, mesmerizing audiences with a powerful fusion of tradition, innovation, and global storytelling.

    Renowned for blending South Asian craftsmanship with modern couture, Phougat transformed the runway into a space of empowerment, culture, and artistry. From intricate mirror work and hand embroidery to flowing satin organza, silk velvet silhouettes, and bold menswear, every piece narrated a tale of resilience and elegance.

    “This collection is more than just fashion—it’s about honoring heritage while embracing the future,” said Phougat. “Every stitch is dedicated to women and men who carry their identities with pride, yet are unafraid to embrace modernity.”

    The Samarpan Collection: Surrender Meets Strength

    At the heart of Phougat’s NYFW showcase was The Samarpan Collection, inspired by the Sanskrit word “Samarpan,” meaning surrender. This deeply personal line encouraged audiences to embrace imperfection, authenticity, and self-acceptance as sources of true strength.

     

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    Crafted from liquid sateen, chiffon, and organza, the garments shimmered with gota zari embroidery, mirror inlays, and Swarovski crystal accents. Flowing lehengas, reimagined sarees, and layered couture gowns struck a balance between luxury and serenity, evoking a meditative aesthetic.

    Minimalist jewelry featuring yellow sapphires, vintage diamonds, and delicate accents elevated the looks—powerful in presence, yet graceful in execution. Each design symbolized a step in surrendering to individuality while embracing vulnerability as empowerment.

    A Celebration of Diversity

    True to her philosophy, Phougat’s runway featured models of diverse backgrounds, reinforcing her commitment to inclusivity in couture. From luxury bridal ensembles to structured menswear sherwanis, the showcase celebrated both timeless traditions and progressive innovation.

    Expanding Global Footprint

    With her designs already gracing red carpets and international beauty pageants, Phougat continues to bridge East and West through couture storytelling. Her brand, Designer Dream Collection, is now synonymous with luxury fashion that champions individuality and empowerment.

    Following her NYFW success, Phougat is set to expand her global presence with upcoming showcases at Los Angeles Fashion Week and other international platforms, further cementing DDC’s place as a global couture powerhouse dedicated to sustainability, heritage, and innovation.

    About Designer Dream Collection

    Founded by Anjali Phougat, Designer Dream Collection (DDC) specializes in custom couture, bridal wear, and red-carpet creations. Based in the United States with a global clientele, DDC is redefining modern couture by weaving together heritage, inclusivity, and storytelling in every masterpiece.

  • Orry Crowns Raghav Juyal the ‘National Crush’ After ‘Bads of Bollywood’

    Orry Crowns Raghav Juyal the ‘National Crush’ After ‘Bads of Bollywood’

    Internet sensation Orry, who is known for setting trends and sparking viral conversations with just a single post, has once again stirred the internet. This time, his spotlight fell on actor and dancer Raghav Juyal, following Raghav’s much-talked-about performance in Bads of Bollywood.

    Taking to Instagram Stories, Orry shared his admiration for Raghav with a short yet powerful declaration — calling him the new “National Crush.” The statement instantly created ripples across social media, with fans of both Orry and Raghav amplifying the buzz. The comment section soon turned into a flood of agreement, as users echoed Orry’s sentiment and showered the actor with adoration.

    Raghav’s Rising Stardom

    Raghav Juyal, who first rose to fame as a dancer and choreographer before transitioning into acting, has been steadily building his reputation as a versatile entertainer. His role in Bads of Bollywood has pushed his popularity to new heights, with critics and audiences alike praising his layered performance. Already celebrated for his unique screen presence and charm, this latest recognition from Orry has further cemented Raghav as one of the most exciting names in the current entertainment landscape.

    Orry’s Influence on Pop Culture

    Orry, often described as India’s “best friend of Bollywood,” has cultivated a reputation for spotting rising talent and setting trends in the celebrity circuit. His witty takes, candid interactions, and public shout-outs often carry significant weight in shaping online discourse. Labeling Raghav as the “National Crush” is more than just a playful compliment; it serves as an endorsement that elevates Raghav into a larger cultural conversation.

    Fans React With Excitement

    The post quickly went viral, with fans and admirers rushing to agree with Orry’s proclamation. Comments ranged from playful banter to heartfelt appreciation for Raghav’s talent and personality. Many noted that his grounded persona, combined with his unconventional journey in the entertainment industry, makes him especially relatable and endearing.

    The Road Ahead for Raghav

    With Bads of Bollywood continuing to gain traction and Orry’s stamp of approval fueling further attention, Raghav Juyal is undeniably enjoying a career-defining moment. His ability to captivate audiences across mediums — from reality television to feature films — has positioned him as a star to watch closely.

    As social media continues to celebrate this new wave of admiration, one thing is clear: Raghav Juyal has officially entered the “National Crush” club, and the tag might just stay with him for a long time to come.

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  • Silver Economy in India: Senior Care Set to Attract Big Investment

    Silver Economy in India: Senior Care Set to Attract Big Investment

    • As 19,500 people turn 60 each day, ASLI Ageing Fest 2025 urges reforms, investment, and innovation in senior care

    Mumbai, September 18, 2025: The 6th edition of the ASLI Ageing Fest commenced today at The LaLit, Mumbai, bringing together leaders, innovators, and policymakers to deliberate on the critical enablers shaping the future of ageing in India—Investments, Technology, Insurance, and Community. With the theme “347 Million Reasons to Rethink Capital Allocation,” the Fest highlighted the urgency of building sustainable and impactful solutions for India’s rapidly growing senior population.

    The inaugural session opened with a welcome Address by Mr. Rajit Mehta, Chairman, ASLI and MD & CEO, Antara Senior Care, who underlined the need to generate conversations around the sector, considering the magnitude of challenges—larger than any other country—with 19,500 people turning 60 every day. “Hence, we need to create relevant infrastructure, put in place holistic care solutions, redefine the contours of current financial products, and also reinvent our policies, frameworks, and tax incentives. Alongside, we must also build a larger pool of caregivers,” Mr. Mehta observed.

    Emphasising that senior care was shifting from the margins to the mainstream, Dr. Rana Mehta – Partner & Leader Healthcare, PwC India, stated: “Investors have a great chance of shaping this journey by bringing in long-term, innovation capital.” He further stressed that “collaboration between investors, end approvers, and policymakers will be the true unlock for this sector.”

    Chaired by Dr. Rana Mehta, the tone for the day was set by the panel discussion “Fuelling the Future: Investments and Impact,” which examined the challenges and opportunities for India as it transitions from a “silver to evergreen longevity economy.”

    Among the panellists, Mr. Vikash Rathi – Principal, Healthcare Investments, Premji Invest, urged companies in the senior care sector to build “business models that are relevant to a larger audience in India to make themselves investible. Problems of this magnitude will require ‘Make in India’ solutions to ensure senior care services are scalable and suitable for our country.”

    Adding to this, Mr. Chintan Kothari – Partner, Eight Roads Ventures, listed key imperatives for the Indian senior care sector to reach its inflection point. “Insurance will be critical, and it will require regulatory intervention. Fiscal incentives in the form of land subsidies, tax reliefs on income, adaptive deductibles, etc., are other essential components that can move this sector forward.”

    Mr. Karthik Narayanswamy – Partner and Head of India, Novo Holdings, noted: “Innovation will be the key to making the economics work for companies in this sector. Investors will take a leap of faith if businesses have the right model.”

    Mr. Ramanan Venkateswaran – Chief Investment Strategist, Singularity AMC, remarked: “While Indian players in the senior care business will draw largely from the global playbook, the price points at which they operate will be the defining factor in making services accessible and affordable for a wider population. The focus should be on creating wellness rather than offering just healthcare, by building vibrant, healthy environments for senior citizens.”

    An another panel “Global Best Practices: Revolutionizing Senior Care,” brought together international perspectives on models that could help India build a future-ready senior care ecosystem. Moderated by Ankur Gupta, Co-Founder, ASLI and JMD, Ashiana Housing, the session drew insights from Australia and Japan—two of the world’s most advanced ageing societies.

    Barry Ashcroft, Co-founder, Director & COO, Apollo Care Australia, highlighted that the Australian government funds nearly 75% of senior care costs, though accommodation is excluded. “The government does not allow profit-making from elderly care, and our revenue comes from providing accommodation,” he explained, underlining how regulation and public funding shape the sector there.

    From Japan, Mitsuru Sakoda, General Manager & Head of Global Business Division, Sompo Care Inc., noted that with almost 30% of its citizens above 60, Japan is now the most aged country in the world. “Hence, societal frameworks and senior care support are becoming increasingly critical to sustain such a large elderly population. Indian models will also need to be built around the country’s culture and societal needs, just as we have done in Japan,” he said.

    With the rise in elderly population and increasing interest around the segment by developers, the senior living industry is poised to reach a market size of $8 billion by 2030 from the current $1.8 to $2 billion, according to a recent report by Association of Senior Living in India (ASLI) and JLL.

    The report has stated that this rise will be driven by an increase in India’s senior population from an estimated 163 million in 2025 to 191.5 million projected for 2030, coupled with a relatively lower market penetration, leaving scope for higher growth potential.

    About ASLI

    Association of Senior Living India (ASLI) was formed, as an initiative by Mr Mansoor Dalal, CMD of Oasis Senior Living, an assiduous proponent and a consultant to the Senior Living industry for the last 14 years, with the support of Mr. Ankur Gupta, Jt. Managing Director of Ashiana Housing and pioneering creators of Senior Homes.

    ASLI, founded in December 2011, is the first and only national voluntary membership association for Senior living and care, having its members drawn from direct and allied sectors connected to Senior care like, healthcare/ Hospitality/ NGO/ home Care Givers/ Service providers/ Developers/ Operators and Corporates .ASLI is working to create communication platforms to educate the senior population on various models of senior living housing as a choice and on principles of Quality care, Service, Transparency, Ethical standards and Business excellence, as exemplified by its members.

    ASLI represents, promotes and protects activities and initiatives which help senior citizens and its service providers.

  • Love in Vietnam Wins Hearts with Emotional Story & Visuals

    Love in Vietnam Wins Hearts with Emotional Story & Visuals

    The much-awaited Indo-Vietnamese collaboration, Love in Vietnam, starring Shantanu Maheshwari and Avneet Kaur, released in theatres on 12th September. Despite stiff competition from big releases like Demon Slayer and Mirai, the film has managed to carve its own space at the box office, winning appreciation for its soulful romance, heartfelt storyline, and breathtaking visuals.

    Strong Performances & Fresh Pairing

    Marking their first on-screen collaboration, Shantanu and Avneet bring a refreshing charm to the screen.

    • Shantanu Maheshwari as Manav delivers a performance rooted in honesty and depth.

    • Avneet Kaur as Simmi captivates audiences with her innocence and emotional resonance.

    • Vietnamese actress Kha Ngan adds elegance to the narrative, further elevating the emotional core of the story.

    The presence of veteran actors Farida Jalal, Raj Babbar, and Gulshan Grover strengthens the ensemble, giving the film a well-rounded appeal.

    Music That Strikes a Chord

    The soundtrack of Love in Vietnam is already being hailed as one of the year’s most memorable. Tracks like “Fakira” and “Bade Din Huye” have struck a chord with listeners, seamlessly blending into the narrative and heightening the film’s emotional intensity. The organic placement of music in the storyline is being applauded as a standout element.

    Box Office Performance

    Despite a limited release with 280 screens worldwide, the film has managed to perform impressively. In just two days, it grossed ₹3.5 crores globally, with a particularly strong pull in Tier-2 cities. While facing an unfavorable release slot, the film has stood out due to its music, visuals, and compelling narrative, proving its merit against larger releases.

    About the Film

    Love in Vietnam is a heart-wrenching musical love story directed by Rahhat Shah Kazmi. The project marks the first-ever Indo-Vietnamese cinematic collaboration.

    Production & Presentation

    • Presented by: Zee Studios

    • Produced by: Captain Rahul Bali, Blue Lotus Pictures, Innovations India, Rahat Kazmi Film Studios and Productions, Zebaish Entertainment, Tariq Khan Productions, Mango Tree Entertainment, Global Impex, and Samten Hills, Dalat

    Currently running in theatres, Love in Vietnam continues to attract audiences with its blend of romance, soul-stirring music, and picturesque storytelling.

  • Mukesh Chhabra’s Khidkiyaan Theatre Festival 2025 Returns for its 8th Spectacular Edition!

    Mukesh Chhabra’s Khidkiyaan Theatre Festival 2025 Returns for its 8th Spectacular Edition!

    The city’s cultural calendar is set to light up as Khidkiyaan Theatre Festival 2025, presented by Mukesh Chhabra Casting Company (MCCC), returns for its 8th edition on 19th, 20th, and 21st September 2025 at Sathaye College, Vile Parle (E) from 3pm onwards.

    Since its launch in 2016, Khidkiyaan has evolved into one of India’s most dynamic theatre festivals, a stage where powerful plays, fresh talent, and unforgettable performances come together. Each year, it opens new windows into storytelling, celebrating the richness of theatre while bridging it with the larger world of cinema and entertainment.

    This year, audiences can look forward to 3 extraordinary plays (2 shows – 4pm & 8pm):

    • Jab Sheher Hamara Sota Hai – 19th September, directed by Hemanth Pandey
    • Sab Thaath Pada Reh Jayega – 20th September, directed by Indu Sharma
    • Mein Bhi Bachchan – 21st September, directed by Mahadev Singh Lakhawat

    Adding to the celebration, the festival welcomes a stellar lineup of special guests:

    Piyush Mishra, Hansal Mehta, Sunil Grover, Raftaar, Tamannaah Bhatia, Vijay Varma, Mrunal Thakur, Karishma Tanna, and Tejasswi Prakash. Their presence underscores Khidkiyaan’s reputation as a meeting ground for acclaimed artists and passionate audiences alike.

    Khidkiyaan 2025 promises three days of powerful performances, inspiring conversation and cultural vibrancy, an immersive celebration where every story opens a new perspective.

  • Birthday Special: Revisiting Karanvir Sharma’s must-watch film roles

    Birthday Special: Revisiting Karanvir Sharma’s must-watch film roles

    Karanvir Sharma celebrates his birthday today, marking another year in his journey in the entertainment industry. Over time, he has taken on a variety of roles across different genres, gradually carving a space for himself on screen. Karanvir’s film choices reflect a steady willingness to explore different stories and narratives. To celebrate his special day, let’s take a look back at some of his notable film roles:

    Zid

    In Zid, Karanvir played Rohan, a crime reporter caught in a tangled web of emotions and suspense. The role helped him connect with audiences and marked one of his early notable performances on the big screen. Zid’s songs are still streamed on multiple platforms and some of which have had streams over 1 billion and counting. To name a few is Mareeze- Ishq sung by Arijit Singh.

    Azhar

    In Azhar, the film based on cricketer Mohammad Azharuddin’s life, Karanvir appeared as Manoj Prabhakar. Though part of a larger ensemble, his role gave him a chance to be part of a layered story and work within a dramatic, real-life inspired narrative.

    Blank

    With Blank, Karanvir stepped into an action-driven role. Playing an ATS officer in this counter-terror thriller, he was part of the high-stakes narrative alongside Sunny Deol. The film allowed him to explore a grittier side as a performer.

    A Thursday

    In A Thursday, Karanvir played Rohit Mirchandani, a criminal lawyer and the fiancé of Naina Jaiswal (Yami Gautam). He brought a calm and relatable presence to the story, navigating the tension of the hostage situation while keeping the personal stakes of his character believable and engaging.