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  • FHRAI Rescheduled 55th Annual Convention in Bengaluru to September 18–20, 2025

    FHRAI Rescheduled 55th Annual Convention in Bengaluru to September 18–20, 2025

    New Delhi, 20 June, 2025: The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), the apex body of the Indian hospitality industry, has rescheduled its 55th Annual Convention to 18 September – 20 September 2025 at Hotel Conrad Bengaluru. The three-day gathering is India’s premier forum for networking, knowledge‐sharing, and shaping the future of tourism and hospitality.

    The chosen theme for the 55th Convention is “FutureScape 2047: Redefining Hospitality for a New India” – a forward-looking vision that reflects tourism sectors’ collective aspirations and the transformative journey of India’s tourism and hospitality sector as it moves towards 2047.

    This theme underscores the need to innovate, adapt, and lead in an era defined by technological advancement, sustainable practices, and evolving guest expectations. It calls upon industry stakeholders to reimagine hospitality through the lens of smart infrastructure, digital integration, cultural preservation, and inclusive growth.

    The Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri Siddaramaiah;  Union Minister of Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat; along with several other State Tourism Ministers, are expected to grace the occasion. The Convention will convene over 1,000 senior stakeholders—policymakers, hoteliers, restaurant entrepreneurs, investors, and academicians—to explore emerging trends, foster collaborations, and chart actionable strategies for a resilient, inclusive, and eco-conscious hospitality ecosystem.

    “Our 55th Convention offers a unique opportunity to co-create the blueprint for India’s hospitality of tomorrow,” said Mr. K. Syama Raju, President, FHRAI. “Bengaluru’s spirit of innovation and its world-class infrastructure make it the ideal stage for these critical conversations under the banner of ‘FutureScape 2047.’ We look forward to welcoming our industry’s changemakers as we embark on this landmark journey.”

    FHRAI has been representing over 60,000 hotels and 500,000 restaurants nationwide, driving policy advocacy, research, and capacity-building. The Bengaluru Convention will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, technical workshops, and interactive forums—all designed to equip participants with the insights and partnerships needed to lead India’s hospitality sector into a bold new era.

  • Rukmini Vasanth Hints at Jr NTR-Prashanth Neel Film with Cryptic “Tiger” Post

    Rukmini Vasanth Hints at Jr NTR-Prashanth Neel Film with Cryptic “Tiger” Post

    Actress Rukmini Vasanth set social media into a frenzy on Thursday morning with a cryptic yet intriguing Instagram post that fans believe may have finally confirmed what the industry has been whispering about for weeks—her inclusion in the high-octane NTR Jr.–Prashanth Neel project. The actress posted a casual mirror selfie from what appears to be a vanity van, but what truly caught everyone’s attention was the caption: “Tiger Tiger Burning Bright…”

    At first glance, the post may have looked like a poetic musing or a spontaneous caption. But die-hard fans of NTR Jr. were quick to connect the dots. The word “Tiger” holds immense significance in the NTR fan universe. Known affectionately as “Young Tiger” by his followers, NTR Jr.’s association with the moniker is iconic. The subtle nod instantly sent fan communities into overdrive, sparking a fresh wave of speculation across the internet.

    A Poetic Clue or a Carefully Orchestrated Tease?

    The line “Tiger Tiger Burning Bright” is a reference to William Blake’s famous poem The Tyger, often associated with untamed energy, fiery spirit, and power—qualities that align seamlessly with NTR Jr.’s on-screen persona. Whether intentional or not, Rukmini’s caption served as the perfect bait, triggering wild guesses and debates among fans and film enthusiasts.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Rukmini Vasanth (@rukmini_vasanth)

    Many believe that the choice of words is no accident. With the NTR-Neel project gaining traction as one of the most anticipated pan-India films currently in development, any hint—no matter how subtle—carries enormous weight. And in an era where stars and filmmakers often use social media to drop unofficial teasers and build organic hype, Rukmini’s post feels like a textbook move to stir excitement without saying too much.

    The NTR-Neel Film: What We Know So Far

    The collaboration between Telugu superstar NTR Jr. and Kannada blockbuster director Prashanth Neel (famous for KGF and Salaar) has already been making waves long before production began. Touted as a massive action drama with pan-Indian appeal, the yet-to-be-titled project is being produced by Mythri Movie Makers and is rumored to be mounted on a massive scale with high production values, intense action sequences, and a gripping narrative.

    Though details about the cast and storyline remain tightly under wraps, several industry insiders have hinted that the makers are assembling a powerful ensemble cast. If Rukmini Vasanth indeed joins the team, it will mark her biggest commercial project to date and a giant leap in her career trajectory.

    A Rising Star in South Indian Cinema

    Rukmini Vasanth, who shot to fame with her impactful role in Sapta Sagaradaache Ello, has quickly become one of the most talked-about young actresses in the South Indian film industry. Praised for her expressive acting, graceful screen presence, and versatility, she has been quietly but steadily building an impressive portfolio. While she’s been part of several critically acclaimed projects, the NTR-Neel film could mark her breakout into the commercial big league.

    If the rumors turn out to be true, it would be a strategic casting choice. Rukmini brings a fresh face and strong acting chops to the table—qualities that Neel has consistently favored in his films. Her inclusion could also lend the film a broader emotional arc, especially if her character balances out the intense action with depth and nuance.

    Fans React: The Internet Goes Wild

    Within hours of Rukmini posting the photo, fan pages, Reddit threads, and X (formerly Twitter) hashtags were flooded with speculations and analysis. “She’s definitely in. That caption is a dead giveaway!” wrote one user. Others began comparing her earlier posts, looking for more hidden clues. Some even pointed out that her recent styling and travel destinations line up suspiciously well with the film’s rumoured shooting schedules.

    For fans of NTR Jr., who are already hyped for the film, the idea of Rukmini joining the cast only raises expectations. The prospect of seeing two powerful talents share screen space under the direction of Prashanth Neel has film lovers across the South buzzing with anticipation.

    Still No Official Confirmation, but the Signs Are Loud and Clear

    While neither the production house nor the actress herself has officially confirmed her role in the project, it’s not uncommon for casting announcements in the film industry to be strategically delayed for maximum impact. However, if Rukmini’s post is any indication, the writing might already be on the wall. The caption, the setting, the timing—it all seems a bit too convenient to be mere coincidence.

    In an industry where fan theories often hold more weight than press releases, Rukmini Vasanth’s one-line caption has done what no formal PR campaign could—it’s got the entire country talking.

    What’s Next for Rukmini?

    Whether or not she’s officially in the NTR-Neel universe, one thing is certain—Rukmini Vasanth knows how to play the game. With just one carefully chosen caption, she’s managed to stay at the center of a major film industry conversation. And if this truly is her way of dropping a hint, then fans can expect even bigger announcements in the days to come.

    Either way, all eyes are now on her Instagram. Because with one post, Rukmini Vasanth may have just gone from promising talent to one of the most sought-after actresses in the pan-Indian film scene.

  • Inside Seerat Kapoor’s ₹70,000 Regal Look at the Gaddar Film Festival

    Inside Seerat Kapoor’s ₹70,000 Regal Look at the Gaddar Film Festival

    Tollywood actress Seerat Kapoor set the red carpet ablaze at the prestigious Telangana Gaddar Film Festival, capturing all eyes in a magnificent ensemble by Issa Designer Studio. Fresh off her debut film Run Raja Run receiving the Best Feature Film award from the Government of Telangana, Seerat celebrated the honour in a style that was nothing short of regal.

    A Saree Fit for Royalty
    Seerat stunned in a luxurious apple green pure tissue saree priced at ₹28,000. The saree featured a delicately scalloped cutwork border, enhanced with intricate pitta and cutdana embroidery. The shimmering fabric and detailed craftsmanship made the saree a true red carpet showstopper.

    Statement Blouse and Signature Glam
    She paired the saree with a handcrafted blouse worth ₹18,000, designed with a sweetheart neckline, full embroidered sleeves, and a daring backless silhouette. The bold yet elegant look highlighted Seerat’s sculpted frame and added a contemporary edge to her traditional attire.

    Jewels, Makeup & Finishing Touches
    Accessorized with sparkling diamond-studded Chandbalis by Aurelius Jewellers (₹5,000) and a stylish ring (₹6,000), Seerat struck a perfect balance between ethnic elegance and modern glamour. Her red carpet makeup featured dewy skin, smudged eyeliner, fluttery lashes, a hint of blush, luminous highlights, and nude glossy lips—flawlessly executed.

    Hair, Heels & Styling Excellence
    Her hair was swept into a soft, messy bun with face-framing bangs, offering a fresh and youthful finish. Completing the look were designer heels worth ₹25,000. The entire ensemble, curated by celebrity stylist Anahita Dhawan, totalled an estimated ₹70,000.

    A Vision of Timeless Glamour
    Seerat Kapoor’s appearance at the Gaddar Film Festival was a blend of grace, glamour, and star power. With every step, she reaffirmed her place as a style icon in the Telugu film industry.

  • Real Estate Startups: Catching Up with Women-Led Ventures

    Real Estate Startups: Catching Up with Women-Led Ventures

    New Delhi, 18th June 2025: In a strong push to recognise women’s growing role in infrastructure and real estate development, NAREDCO Mahi, the women’s wing of the National Real Estate Development Council (NAREDCO), convened a focused media interaction in the national capital today. While the session also served as a curtain raiser to the 4th NAREDCO Mahi Convention, scheduled for 27th June, it focused sharply on the growing momentum of women-led development and the need to bring more women into India’s urban transformation story aligned with the nation’s Viksit Bharat vision for 2047.

    Speakers pointed out that India’s real estate sector, currently valued at over $265 billion, is projected to touch $1 trillion by the end of this decade, contributing nearly 13% to the national GDP. Despite this high-growth potential, women still form only around 11 to 12 percent of the sector’s total workforce. However, change is underway. From project planning and design to compliance, construction supervision, and investment management, women are now increasingly involved in every layer of the real estate value chain.

    Ms. Smita Patil, President, NAREDCO Mahi, shared that the organization is actively engaging with stakeholders to create inclusive pathways for women in the sector. She stated that beyond boardroom conversations, NAREDCO Mahi has been working on ground-led interventions around skilling and training for young women, climate-sensitive construction practices, sanitation and safety measures at construction sites, water conservation models at realty projects, and solid waste management frameworks for developers. She said that NAREDCO Mahi’s outreach has extended to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities where women are now increasingly visible in marketing, legal, project finance, and client relations roles—areas once perceived as inaccessible to them.

    Ms. Patil added that the upcoming 4th NAREDCO Mahi Convention will feature powerful narratives and real-world experiences of women transforming the real estate sector. One of the most anticipated segments will be a special session showcasing father-daughter duos who have broken generational stereotypes to shape modern realty leadership in India. The convention will also feature ‘Recognition of Mahi Sheroes,’ policy masterclasses, and a sectoral discussion on wellness living and sustainable housing—an area witnessing a compound annual growth rate of over 16 percent and emerging as one of the most sought-after trends in post-pandemic urban development.

    Dr. Ananta Singh Raghuvanshi, Chairperson, NAREDCO Mahi, said that the upcoming convention is a leadership statement as much as an industry platform. She said that women are bringing empathy, precision, and people-centric innovation to how real estate is built and sold. Through focused initiatives in skilling, financial literacy, digital transformation, and sustainability, NAREDCO Mahi is working to increase women’s presence at all stages of the real estate journey—from conceptualisation to delivery.

    Shri G Hari Babu, National President, NAREDCO, said that India’s journey to becoming one of the world’s top three economies cannot exclude the participation of half its population. He stated that women are no longer merely participants—they are project heads, entrepreneurs, investors, and reformers who bring both strategic vision and social awareness to infrastructure and housing development. He added that from working in cooperative movements post-independence to taking boardroom roles today, Indian women have consistently shown leadership in the face of challenges.

    The session highlighted that over 20 percent of registered architects in India today are women, increasingly taking the lead in urban planning, heritage conservation, and sustainable design practices. In Tier 1 cities, nearly 15 percent of real estate brokerage and advisory firms are now women-led, a significant rise compared to a decade ago. While women make up around 10 percent of the construction workforce—largely in finishing and supervisory roles—there is a steady uptick in the number of women entering skilled positions, including site engineering and material management, especially through formal skilling programs and digital certifications. The allied sectors of interior design, legal real estate compliance, ESG advisory, green certification, and digital realty platforms are seeing over 35 to 40 percent female participation, particularly in metros and upcoming urban clusters.

    “Women leaders today are not just transforming real estate, they are redefining the business of building India. As developers, strategists, financiers, and policymakers, they bring sharp commercial acumen and enduring vision that is reshaping our urban economy. Empowering women in leadership roles is no longer a social conversation; it’s a strategic business decision. Their ability to balance risk, drive innovation, and lead with resilience is unlocking new opportunities across the value chain, from housing finance and construction technology to urban planning and sustainability,” said Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, Chairman, NAREDCO.

    Mr. Harsh Vardhan Bansal, President, NAREDCO Delhi, expressed that with more than 30 percent of startups in India now being led by women, the real estate sector must catch up with the country’s broader shift toward gender-balanced growth. He said that qualities like multitasking, emotional intelligence, and long-term vision—often overlooked in infra projects—are being brought to the forefront by women professionals who are reshaping not just homes but also communities. He added that the soft power of women can be a game-changer in how India thinks about liveability, affordability, and sustainable development in the years ahead.

    The 4th NAREDCO Mahi Convention is expected to bring together policy leaders, developers, real estate strategists, financial institutions, academics, and social change agents to discuss how women can play a central role in India’s infrastructure journey. As the country prepares its blueprint for Viksit Bharat, NAREDCO Mahi is ensuring that women are not only part of the narrative—but are at the helm of it.

  • Digangana Suryavanshi to Head Promotions for Web Series “Showstopper” Major Announcement and OTT Release Updates Expected Soon

    Digangana Suryavanshi to Head Promotions for Web Series “Showstopper” Major Announcement and OTT Release Updates Expected Soon

    In a major update for fans of the upcoming web series Showstopper, actress Digangana Suryavanshi has been officially announced as the face of the show’s publicity campaign. The decision follows her powerful performance as the lead heroine and marks a significant step in the show’s journey toward release.

    Manish Harishankar and Digangana Reunite for Promotions

    Writer, director, and producer Manish Harishankar has personally invited Digangana to lead the show’s promotional efforts. This move signifies a renewed professional partnership between the two, paving the way for a united front as the team gears up for Showstopper’s highly anticipated debut.

    MOU Signing and OTT Platform Deal on the Horizon

    The production team is also preparing for a key Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing later this month. The series is in its final stage of closing an OTT release deal, with more details set to be unveiled in an upcoming press conference.

    Digangana Suryavanshi

    Clarifying the Past: Misunderstandings Resolved

    Responding to earlier media speculation and reports of a fallout, Mr. Harishankar clarified:

    “What happened in the past was a major case of misunderstanding. Both parties were earnestly working toward the success of the show. Unfortunately, certain esteemed names were unnecessarily drawn into the situation. MH Films continues to hold them in the highest regard. I do regret the matter going all wrong—it wasn’t the intention.”

    He further added:

    “I have full confidence in Ms. Digangana and have personally spoken to her to represent the show in the public domain, help clarify matters, and guide us forward positively. We’ve had a productive conversation and are now focused on a fresh start.”

    Moving Ahead with Positivity and Purpose

    With all prior differences resolved and mutual respect re-established, the Showstopper team is now moving ahead with clarity and enthusiasm. The forthcoming press conference will offer insights into the show’s production journey, its marketing strategy, and the revitalized collaboration between Manish Harishankar and Digangana Suryavanshi.

  • The 10 Richest & Most Influential Businesswomen Globally (2025)

    The 10 Richest & Most Influential Businesswomen Globally (2025)

    A definitive ranking of the most powerful, wealthy, and influential women shaping global business today.

    1. Alice Walton – The Artful Retail Heiress

    Net Worth: $101 billion
    As the sole daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton, Alice has parlayed her inheritance into cultural clout. Founder of Arkansas’s Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, she’s expanded world‑class exhibitions into rural America and remains a leading philanthropist in arts and education.

    2. Françoise Bettencourt Meyers – L’Oréal’s Visionary Heiress

    Net Worth: $81.6 billion
    At the helm of the world’s largest cosmetics empire, Françoise has driven L’Oréal’s expansion across Asia and championed sustainable beauty lines. As chair of her family’s holding company, she also funds scientific research and cultural initiatives worldwide.

    3. Julia Koch – The Low‑Profile Powerbroker

    Net Worth: $74.2 billion
    Inheriting a major stake in Koch Industries, Julia has stepped into boardroom prominence, guiding one of America’s largest private firms. A dedicated philanthropist, she supports education, medical research, and the arts—quietly yet decisively shaping multiple sectors.

    4. Abigail Johnson – Wall Street’s Fintech Pioneer

    Net Worth: $38 billion
    As CEO of Fidelity Investments—managing over $4.5 trillion in assets—Abigail has transformed the century‑old family firm into a fintech powerhouse. Under her leadership, Fidelity has embraced crypto, ESG investing, and cutting‑edge digital platforms.

    5. Gina Rinehart – Australia’s Mining Maverick

    Net Worth: $30 billion
    Turning her father’s faltering mining enterprise into Hancock Prospecting, Gina commands Australia’s iron ore and gas industries. A fierce voice on economic policy, she’s one of the nation’s richest and most influential industrialists.

    6. MacKenzie Scott – Philanthropy’s Disruptor

    Net Worth: $26.7 billion
    Since her divorce from Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, MacKenzie has redefined billionaire giving—donating over $19 billion to 2,000+ organizations across racial equity, LGBTQ+ rights, and education. Her fast, unrestricted grants model is reshaping global philanthropy.

    7. Diane Hendricks – Self‑Made Construction Queen

    Net Worth: $22.3 billion
    From real estate agent and single mother to co‑founder of ABC Supply, Diane built America’s largest roofing distributor. A trailblazer in construction and conservative politics, her story exemplifies grit, vision, and entrepreneurial tenacity.

    8. Safra Catz – Oracle’s Strategic Powerhouse

    Net Worth: $2.6 billion
    As co‑CEO of Oracle, Safra has driven landmark acquisitions—PeopleSoft, Sun Microsystems, NetSuite—and steered the company’s cloud computing ambitions. Known for her fiscal acumen and decisive leadership, she ranks among tech’s most powerful executives.

    9. Rihanna – From Pop Icon to Beauty Billionaire

    Net Worth: $1.4 billion
    Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty shattered industry norms with 40+ foundation shades, while Savage X Fenty pioneered inclusive lingerie. Crowned the world’s youngest female billionaire in 2022, she stands at the intersection of entertainment, fashion, and commerce.

    10. Oprah Winfrey – The Empathy‑Driven Media Mogul

    Net Worth: $3 billion
    From her groundbreaking talk show to OWN network and Harpo Productions, Oprah built a multimedia empire. Her savvy investments—from WeightWatchers to Apple TV+—and her philanthropic initiatives continue to inspire and empower millions globally.

    These ten women exemplify the diverse paths to business success—inheritance turned cultural stewardship, self-made empires, and philanthropic innovation—each reshaping industries and setting new standards for female leadership in 2025.

  • Jim Sarbh learnt Telugu for Kuberaa: “I didn’t want to say a line without knowing what every word meant”

    Jim Sarbh learnt Telugu for Kuberaa: “I didn’t want to say a line without knowing what every word meant”

    At the recently held Kuberaa song launch event in Mumbai, actor Jim Sarbh opened up about one of the biggest challenges he faced while working on the film — learning Telugu from scratch. Known for his powerful performances and attention to detail, Jim shared how he took the time to not just memorise his lines, but truly understand every single word.

    Jim shared “Well, the challenge, of course, was learning the lines because I don’t speak Telugu. That took a lot of time and effort, and I don’t like the idea of saying a sentence without knowing what each individual word means.”

    He explained how the structure and flow of the Telugu language is very different from English, which made the process even more interesting and demanding.

    “In English, you might say, ‘How many are there?’ but in Telugu, it could be like, ‘Many are there, how?’ or something similar. So, where do you put the ‘how’? At the end of the sentence, at the top of the sentence? That took some time and effort to get right.”

    Produced by Suniel Narang and Puskur Ram Mohan Rao under the banners of Sri Venkateswara Cinemas LLP and Amigos Creations Pvt Ltd, Kuberaa is co-produced by Vipul Agarwal and Manish Vasisth. Mugafi presents the film in North India and also leads its distribution across the region.

    Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Sekhar Kammula, Kuberaa stars Nagarjuna Akkineni, Dhanush, Rashmika Mandanna, Jim Sarbh, and Dalip Tahil. With music by Devi Sri Prasad (DSP), the film will release in five languages — Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and Malayalam.

    Kuberaa is set to release in theatres worldwide on June 20, 2025.

  • FUJIFILM India Launches National Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign with Upasana Kamineni Konidela

    FUJIFILM India Launches National Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign with Upasana Kamineni Konidela

    Hyderabad, June 11th, 2025 — FUJIFILM India, a pioneer in healthcare imaging and diagnostics, has officially launched its nationwide CSR campaign titled ‘Find It Early, Fight It Early’, aimed at raising breast cancer awareness. The campaign was inaugurated in the presence of Ms. Upasana Kamineni Konidela, Vice Chairperson of CSR at Apollo Hospitals, who joins as the official Campaign Ambassador.

    This initiative, in partnership with Apollo Foundation as the implementation agency, will span 24 cities across India, targeting over 1.5 lakh women. The goal is to educate, empower, and encourage early detection of breast cancer through structured community outreach, health screenings, and on-ground sensitization activities conducted by trained educators.

    Ms. Upasana Kamineni Konidela emphasized the importance of the campaign, stating,

    “As healthcare leaders, we have a responsibility to not only treat illness but prevent it through awareness and access. FUJIFILM India’s CSR campaign addresses the critical need for early breast cancer detection, especially in areas where stigma and lack of awareness persist. We must act before it’s too late.”

    India continues to face a growing burden of breast cancer. According to the National Cancer Registry Program by ICMR, breast cancer accounts for around 14% of all cancers diagnosed among women, with 1 in 29 women at risk in their lifetime. Late detection—often due to misinformation, cultural barriers, and limited healthcare access—remains a serious challenge.

    FUJIFILM India’s campaign tackles this issue with a culturally sensitive, grassroots approach. Through workshops, self-examination education, and open discussions, women will be empowered to prioritize their health and seek timely care.

    Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Koji Wada, Managing Director, FUJIFILM India, said,

    “At FUJIFILM India, we strive to blend technology with compassion. ‘Find It Early, Fight It Early’ is our commitment to community well-being and early diagnosis. This campaign reflects our Group purpose of ‘Giving Our World More Smiles’ and our dedication to saving lives through awareness and innovation.”

    The campaign is aligned with FUJIFILM Group’s Sustainable Value 2030 Plan, focusing on health equity and access for underserved populations. With this initiative, FUJIFILM India continues to pave the way toward inclusive healthcare, enabling women from all walks of life to take control of their health and future.