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Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards 2025 – A Decade of Cinema, Coming 29th & 30th October in Mumbai

The Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards (DPIFF) 2025 is set to mark a monumental milestone, celebrating 10 glorious years of Indian cinema on a global stage. Honouring the legacy of Late Shri Dhundiraj Govind Phalke – the Father of Indian Cinema, DPIFF has grown into one of the nation’s most prestigious award ceremonies and film festivals, uniting legendary icons and emerging talent under one emblem of cinematic excellence.

The 2024 edition was a glittering affair, graced by luminaries including Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Nayanthara, Rani Mukerji, Shahid Kapoor and many more, reaffirming the festival’s status as a platform that celebrates both stardom and artistry. The annual award ceremony witnesses the presence of celebrities, industry veterans, ministry delegates, government dignitaries, distinguished members of the film fraternity, and media personnel, making it a true convergence of talent, influence, and creativity.

This year, the 10th edition promises to be grander than ever, featuring a star-studded celebration with captivating performances and a cinematic tribute to India’s rich film heritage, showcasing stories from North to South. The festival continues to champion emerging voices through its Global Short Film Festival, which has drawn outstanding participation from filmmakers across the world, making it one of the most dynamic highlights of the occasion.

Sources indicate that renowned international personalities are also expected to attend, further establishing DPIFF as a truly global celebration of storytelling and creativity. Speaking about this landmark edition, Mr. Abhishek Mishra, CEO of DPIFF, said:”As we step into our 10th year, the Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards will celebrate the universal magic of cinema like never before. This edition will be a grand gathering where legends, emerging creators, and audiences come together to honour the stories that move the world.”

The Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards 2025, taking place on 29th & 30th October in Mumbai, promises to be a magical convergence of talent, storytelling, and spectacle, a true celebration of cinema’s enduring legacy and its global impact.

Big Update for UPI Users: New Transaction Limits from September 15 on PhonePe, Google Pay & More

Pic Credit: Pexel

If you’re someone who regularly transfers money using UPI platforms like PhonePe, Google Pay, or Paytm, there’s a major update you should know about. Starting September 15, 2025, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) will roll out new UPI transaction limits — especially helpful for those making high-value payments for loans, insurance, taxes, and investments.

 What’s Changing?

Earlier, UPI transactions were capped at ₹1 lakh per day for most users. But now, NPCI has revised the limits specifically for Person-to-Merchant (P2M) transactions — allowing:

• ₹5 lakh per transaction, and
• Up to ₹10 lakh per day

These new rules will apply only when you pay directly to verified businesses or service providers, such as:

• Insurance companies
• Stockbrokers
• Loan EMI payment portals
• Income tax departments

This means you can now make bigger payments via UPI — securely and conveniently — without splitting them into multiple transactions.

 New UPI Transaction Limits: Sector-wise Breakdown

Category Old Limit New Per Transaction Limit New Daily Limit

• Insurance & Capital Markets ₹2 lakh ₹5 lakh ₹10 lakh
  Loan EMI Payments ₹2 lakh ₹5 lakh ₹10 lakh
  Credit Card Bill Payments ₹2 lakh ₹5 lakh ₹6 lakh

Important Note: These limits apply only to Person-to-Merchant transactions. The ₹1 lakh limit for Person-to-Person (P2P) transfers remains unchanged.

Why This Update Matters

The new UPI rules are rolling out just ahead of September 15, the deadline for many tax-related payments. The move is expected to make high-value payments faster and more seamless, especially for salaried individuals, self-employed professionals, and business owners.

By allowing higher limits, NPCI is addressing a growing demand from users who rely on UPI for large payments — from tax filing to investment and loan servicing.

Is It Safe?

Yes. These transactions are allowed only when sent to verified merchants and go through UPI’s secure platform. The increased limits do not apply to casual transfers between individuals (like sending money to a friend or family member).

Also, these new limits will be implemented across all UPI-enabled platforms — PhonePe, Google Pay, BHIM, Paytm, and others — as long as your bank supports the update.

From September 15, 2025, users will be able to send up to ₹10 lakh per day via UPI to verified merchants — a welcome move for those handling large payments online. This change reinforces India’s growing confidence in digital payments and is another step toward a cashless, tech-forward economy.

So, if you’re planning to pay taxes, EMIs, or invest using your UPI app — you’re in for a smoother, faster experience.

New Delhi, India, September 11th, 2025 – Wishes and Blessings, a Delhi-based NGO committed to uplifting the underprivileged, is all set to host the fourth edition of its flagship fundraiser concert ‘Jashn-e-Qawwali’. The event is scheduled on Friday, 12th September 2025, from 7:00 pm onwards at Kamani Auditorium, Delhi. The evening will feature a captivating live performance by the internationally renowned Qawwali troupe, the ‘Niazi Nizami Brothers’. They are all set to create a magical musical evening with their famous earworm ‘Hasta hua noorani chehra’ and other popular qawwalis. The tickets of the event are available for ₹499/-only on District by Zomato.

The NGO has been organizing the fund-raising event, Jashn-e-Qawwali for the last three years with 100% of the proceeds going towards transformative initiatives led by the organisation. Now in its fourth year, the funds raised from ‘Jashn-e-Qawwali’ will contribute to build a permanent home for the elderly residents of the NGO’s old age home-Mann Ka Tilak, which currently runs on leased land, in Maidan Garhi, Saket, Delhi. Since its establishment in 2018, it has helped over 280 senior citizens. The home provides free of cost shelter, meals and healthcare to abandoned, abused, and neglected elderly individuals.  Although leased land serves its purpose, it fails to give elderly individuals assurance that this is their permanent home. In addition to that, despite need and willingness, the organisation cannot accommodate more elderly due to limited space. 

On organizing the 4th edition of the fund raiser, Dr. Geetanjali Chopra, Founder & President of Wishes and Blessings says, “Jashn-e-Qawwali is more than an evening of music-it is a celebration of humanity. At Wishes and Blessings, our vision is to create a society where compassion is a way of life. Through this event, we connect heart to a cause often invisible- the plight of abandoned elders. Every hand that joins us, take us one step closer to a future where no elder feels forgotten”.

On their upcoming performance at the fund-raising event, Shahid Niazi, one of the leading artists of the Niazi Nizami Brothers troupe, says, “It is our privilege to perform at Jashn-e-Qawwali. This concert allows us to showcase our tradition while contributing to the meaningful cause. We are hoping to make it a soulful evening that everyone will remember”.

Udaipur, September 11, 2025: Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL), a Vedanta Group company and India’s largest & only integrated producer of Zinc-Lead-Silver, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Rajasthan Heritage Authority (RHA) for the development of the Heritage Corridor at Poonchari ka Lautha, in the district of Deeg, Rajasthan. The MoU has been signed for a period of three years, with Hindustan Zinc committing financial support of INR 85 Crores through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Onkar Singh Lakhawat – Chairman, Ram Ranjan – CEO of Rajasthan Heritage Authority, Arun Misra – CEO, Hindustan Zinc, Anupam Nidhi – CSR Head, Hindustan Zinc with other senior dignitaries.

The project aims to preserve and promote culture and heritage through restoration of historical sites and supporting infrastructure development, including botanical gardens and horticulture, improvement of the Parikrama Marg, residential facilities for visitors, and development of demarcated complexes and walkways. Located at Poonchari ka Lautha in Deeg within the Braj cultural landscape, marking the ‘tail’ of sacred Govardhan Hill and a key stop on the Govardhan Parikrama, the site holds deep spiritual and cultural significance; investing in social impacting project like these safeguards a living pilgrimage corridor, improves safe access, and supports local livelihoods.

Adding to this, Onkar Singh Lakhawat – Chairman, Rajasthan Heritage Authority, said, “Rajasthan is home to some of India’s most treasured cultural and historical landmarks, and it is our responsibility to preserve them for posterity. The support from Hindustan Zinc will accelerate our efforts in developing the Heritage Corridor at Poonchari ka Lautha into a vibrant hub that not only safeguards history but also enhances visitor experience. This collaboration sets a positive example of how industry and government can come together to conserve heritage while fostering sustainable tourism.”

Speaking on the occasion, Arun Misra, CEO & Whole-time Director, Hindustan Zinc, said, Heritage connects communities to their roots and strengthens identity. At Hindustan Zinc, we are proud to support the Rajasthan Heritage Authority in preserving and revitalizing these cultural treasures while also developing infrastructure that will enhance the experience for visitors and benefit local communities.” 

With this collaboration, Hindustan Zinc continues to strengthen its legacy of contributing to community development and cultural preservation as part of its holistic social impact projects. Over the years, the company has undertaken projects spanning education, health, water conservation, women empowerment, and environmental sustainability.The Heritage Corridor initiative at Poonchari ka Lautha adds a new dimension to this journey by supporting Rajasthan’s vision of conserving its historic treasures while creating sustainable tourism opportunities that will boost local livelihoods and enhance regional pride.

Hindustan Zinc is driving positive change in communities through focused social impact initiatives across key areas such as women empowerment, sustainable livelihoods, quality education, healthcare access, and inclusive sports and skill development platforms. By FY25, the company’s efforts have positively impacted over 23 lakh people in more than 2,300 villages, positioning Hindustan Zinc as one of India’s top 10 CSR spenders and setting a benchmark for how industry can foster large-scale, inclusive, and sustainable development.

About Hindustan Zinc

Hindustan Zinc Limited (BSE: 500188 and NSE: HINDZINC), a Vedanta Group company, is the world’s largest integrated zinc producer and is amongst the top 5 silver p

New Delhi, September 11, 2025 – Zypp Electric, India’s leading EV rental platform, has turned its 8th Foundation Day into a marketing milestone with the resounding success of its cost-effective, viral campaign ‘Green Hai Toh Zypp Hai’. The initiative not only celebrated Zypp’s journey but also created massive buzz around EV awareness and road safety, which was in collaboration with Traffic Gurugram, positioning the brand as both a sustainability leader and a marketing innovator.

The campaign received an overwhelming response, with over 2,500 active participants, generating more than 25 million organic impressions across platforms and inspiring communities through 3,000 user-generated content (UGC) videos and posts. The top 3 videos of this campaign garnered over 6.3 million, 6.1 million, and 1.1 million views, respectively, from across India, reflecting the organic reach of the campaign. These stories, created by customers, riders, and partners, highlighted real journeys of sustainability, electric mobility adoption, and the growing impact of green logistics in India. An iPhone was included as part of the prize, to be awarded to the person whose video generated the highest number of views among the followers.

Through ‘Green Hai Toh Zypp Hai’, Zypp Electric amplified its vision of transforming last-mile delivery with its EV fleet, significantly reducing carbon emissions and urban pollution. The campaign not only celebrated Zypp’s journey over the last eight years but also spotlighted the collective role of consumers and businesses in accelerating India’s shift towards clean mobility.

Akash Gupta, Co-founder & CEO, said: “Green Hai Toh Zypp Hai wasn’t just a campaign; it was proof of how powerful community-driven marketing can be. With limited budgets, we achieved virality, created real social conversations, and amplified our mission of EV adoption and road safety. This campaign is a case study in how purpose-led marketing can also deliver massive brand traction and create community-driven efforts and inclusion towards the mission and vision of going emission-free.

With this milestone celebration, Zypp Electric reaffirms its commitment to scaling its EV fleet from 20,000 to 100,000 in the next 12-18 months, empowering more than 2 Lakhs gig workers, and enabling sustainable last-mile delivery solutions for India’s growing e-commerce, food, grocery, quick commerce, and hyperlocal ecosystem.

Mumbai, India September 11, 2025 – Minute Media, a leading global technology and sports content company, today announced its acquisition of VideoVerse. VideoVerse’s leading product, Magnifi, an AI-driven SaaS technology platform, enables content owners and rights holders to automatically detect key moments, create highlights in real time, and distribute compelling short-form video content efficiently.  Some of its clients include FIFA+, Indian Super League, Pro Panja League, Willow TV, Portuguese Football Federation, and TV2, among others.

The addition of VideoVerse will enable Minute Media to provide unprecedented value to the sports content ecosystem, furthering both parties’ partnership capabilities. With this acquisition, Minute Media plans to deploy a fully integrated creation, distribution, and monetization solution, furthering its strategic partnerships with top teams, leagues, and federations around the world. Additionally, existing Magnifi clients will be able to seamlessly leverage Minute Media’s industry-leading distribution and monetization solutions, enhancing ROI for their video assets.

In the fast-paced sports arena, VideoVerse’s Magnifi helps partners quickly deliver standout moments to fans across platforms, capturing the essence of the game with unmatched speed and precision. Powered by AI, Magnifi leverages computer vision, natural language processing, and machine learning to analyze visual and audio cues, identify highlights, and enhance video content for fans. The product integrates GenAI features, including multilingual subtitling, automatic thumbnail generation, metadata generation, as well as a dynamic rules-based engine to automate end-to-end processing, making it an all-in-one editorial workspace that empowers content teams.

“We are thrilled to bring the passionate teams and robust capabilities of VideoVerse into the Minute Media family to bring teams and leagues a full-stack solution from creation to distribution to monetization. In addition, with VideoVerse’s technologies, Minute Media’s owned & operated brands, partners, and clients will experience and have the very best in AI-powered creation,” said Asaf Peled, Founder and CEO of Minute Media.

With early support from marquee investors such as Venture East, Moneta Ventures, Alpha Wave Global, Audacity, Evolvence India, Bluestone Equity Partners, and 9Unicorns, VideoVerse’s journey stands as a testament to India’s growing role in building world-class AI and sports technology.

VideoVerse’s technology will drive key enhancements across Minute Media’s ecosystem, strengthening the STN Video platform for leagues and publishing partners as well as driving innovative new formats across owned and operated brands like Sports Illustrated and The Players’ Tribune.

VideoVerse and Minute Media will further strengthen and expand their AI footprint in India through continued investment, with a strategic emphasis on advancing next-generation AI video capabilities.

New Delhi / San Francisco, September 11th, 2025: Software Freedom Law Center, India (SFLC.in), India’s pioneering non-profit working at the intersection of law, technology, and digital rights, has been awarded the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) Award 2025 for Defending Digital Freedoms. The recognition, announced at the annual EFF Awards Ceremony in San Francisco on September 10, 2025, celebrates SFLC.in’s tireless advocacy for online civil liberties, privacy, and open access to knowledge.

 The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) is a global non-profit that has, since 1990, championed digital rights through landmark legal victories on privacy, free expression, and innovation. Its annual awards recognise individuals and organisations worldwide who have made transformative contributions to protecting freedoms in the digital age.

In India, SFLC.in has been at the forefront of this work for over 15 years. Founded in 2010 by technology lawyer and activist Mishi Choudhary, the organisation has taken on issues such as internet shutdowns, online harassment, privacy in emerging technologies, and equitable access to digital spaces, while building a strong network of lawyers, technologists, and policy experts to safeguard citizens’ digital rights.

From tracking internet shutdowns across India and campaigning for freedom of speech, to advocating for stronger privacy frameworks in AI regulations, SFLC.in has consistently defended the rights of technology users. Its Digital Defenders Network has created a pan-India coalition of lawyers committed to protecting online freedom, while its digital security training empowers citizens to navigate the internet safely.

The organisation’s work has also included landmark litigation on freedom of expression, petitions to the Government of India on key digital rights issues, and impactful campaigns pressing global tech platforms to adopt user-centric practices. Notably, SFLC.in was among the first to highlight how certain social media features could be misused for harassment, pushing for platform-level accountability and safer digital ecosystems.

Accepting the award, SFLC.in dedicated the honour to India’s digital rights community, stating: “This award is a recognition of the collective struggle of countless lawyers, activists, technologists, and citizens who believe that technology must serve people, not the other way around. We remain committed to safeguarding digital freedoms for every Indian, ensuring that the internet stays open, inclusive, and secure.”

With this global recognition, SFLC.in joins an esteemed roster of past EFF Award laureates who have reshaped the digital rights landscape worldwide. The organisation now aims to expand its awareness programs on AI, cybersecurity, and digital inclusion, while continuing to support communities most vulnerable to digital exclusion and surveillance.

FADA 7th Auto Retail Conclave – “Self-Sustaining Success” at the Core of Transforming Auto Retail for Naya Bharat

Mumbai / New Delhi, September 11, 2025: The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) today hosted the 7th edition of the Auto Retail Conclave, centered around the theme “Self-Sustaining Success: Transforming Auto Retail for Naya Bharat.” The Conclave drew an impressive gathering of over 500 delegates from every corner of the country, representing the vibrant auto retail community. Adding to the significance of the event were stalwarts from the automobile industry, influential dealer representatives, and visionary policymakers, including leading thought leaders and think tanks. This year the auto conclave focused on creating a future-ready retail ecosystem, strengthening OEM–dealer partnerships, and charting the roadmap for sustainable growth in India’s mobility landscape.

The Conclave was inaugurated by our Honourable Chief Guests Shri Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Hon’ble Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, along with Shri. H.D. Kumaraswamy, Union Minister for Heavy Industries & Steel who joined virtually to address the gathering. Sharing the dais were eminent industry leaders, including Mr. Shailesh Chandra, President – SIAM; Mr. Kartick V. Nagpal, President – Rosmerta Group and Mr. C.S. Vigneshwar, President – FADA. Together, they emphasized the importance of strengthening OEM–dealer synergies, with innovation and customer trust as the key drivers of future growth.

Commending FADA’s ongoing efforts in building a responsible retail automobile ecosystem in the nation, Hon’ble Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, stated,“The transition of India’s automobile sector towards clean and sustainable mobility is not a one-time effort but a continuous process that evolves year after year. Today, we already have electric buses, cars, and even construction vehicles running on electric and hydrogen power. In the coming years, electric vehicles and diesel / petrol vehicles will stand on equal ground in terms of cost and efficiency. India has a huge market potential not just for domestic adoption but also for exports. To support this, we are focusing on securing critical minerals, scaling semiconductor production, and enabling startups engaged in advanced research. Even through scraping old vehicles, we are recovering rare metals and recycled materials for reuse.

He further added, “India is now the world’s 3rd largest automobile market, and within five years, we aim to be No.1. With strong demand, skilled talent, low cost of production and global players expanding in India, the foundation is set. Guided by ethics, economy, and environment, we are driving biofuels, flex fuels, EVs, and hydrogen, while easing taxes to cut imports and boost growth. Green mobility is both a necessity and an opportunity to make India a global automotive leader.”

Honourable Minister of Heavy Industries, Mr. H.D. Kumaraswamy, addressed the 7th Auto Conclave saying, “The 7th Auto Retail Conclave is a celebration of the strength and resilience of India’s automobile retail sector, which stands as the backbone of the industry. Dealers are not just sellers, they are the trusted face of mobility for millions of families, offering confidence, service, and reliability at every step. With over 15,000 dealerships and 20,000 outlets employing nearly 50 lakh people, the sector contributes immensely to the economy, generating almost 18 downstream jobs for every role at an OEM plant. This year’s theme, Self-Sustaining Success for Naya Bharat, is timely as the industry embraces AI adoption, digital transformation, and global competition while advancing the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. The Ministry of Heavy Industries remains deeply committed to working alongside FADA and all stakeholders to strengthen this ecosystem, ensuring a sustainable, future-ready, and self-reliant automobile retail sector that powers India’s growth journey.”

Addressing industry stalwarts and esteemed Government dignitaries, Mr. C.S. Vigneshwar, President of FADA, highlighted the pivotal role of India’s 30,000+ dealerships in generating employment for over 5 million people and contributing significantly to the nation’s economy. Mr. Vigneshwar stated, “The 7th Auto Retail Conclave is a tribute to the resilience and contribution of dealers, who form the backbone of the automotive ecosystem. This year’s theme, ‘Self-Sustaining Success for Naya Bharat,’ reflects our collective commitment to building a resilient, progressive, and future-ready industry. Auto retail in India is not confined to vehicle sales, but it also sustains the livelihoods of over 50 lakh people, anchors investments of ₹20 lakh crore, and contributes ₹3 lakh crore annually in taxes. Being three times larger than all organized retail combined, the sector’s growth and stability are closely tied to the nation’s progress. At FADA, our vision is to empower dealerships by moving from dependence to independence, turning challenges into opportunities, and ensuring long-term sustainability. This requires OEMs and dealers to work as true partners. Issues such as excessive inventory, thin margins, high training costs, and business viability must be addressed constructively to foster trust and resilience.

He further added, “While GST 2.0 is a landmark reform, the withdrawal of Compensation Cess risks straining dealer working capital and weakening festive momentum. A fair transitional framework, along with policy measures such as a Dealer Protection Act, ease of doing business, and EV ecosystem support, is vital. Auto retail is more than commercial is a national mission contributing to Naya Bharat.”

The session also featured the launch of FADA’s CSR Initiative for 2025–26, marked by the unveiling of the Auto Dealer Day Logo, Theme, and Video on providing immediate assistance to road accident victims. A moment of pride came with the felicitation of Padma Shri Dr. Maya Tandon, Founder Chairperson, Sahayata Trust, for her exemplary service to society.

A key highlight of the Conclave was the Fireside Chat with Shri Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, who shared his vision for the transformation of India’s auto retail sector in line with Naya Bharat. He urged dealers to champion sustainable mobility and road safety, while accelerating the shift towards greener mobility solutions through alternative fuels, electrification, and clean energy adoption. The session was moderated by Mr. Pankaj Doval, National Editor, The Times of India.

The Conclave also featured a series of strategic sessions showcasing the progress and future roadmap of FADA’s key verticals. Mr. Pradeep Agarwal, Treasurer – FADA and Chairman, Two-Wheeler Vertical, outlined initiatives to strengthen the two-wheeler retail ecosystem. Mr. Manish Raj Singhania, Chairman – FADA Academy & Research, reviewed the Academy’s achievements and presented its strategic outlook to nurture leadership within the dealer community. Highlighting youth-driven innovation, Mr. Surya Chordia and Mr. Maneet Singh, Zonal Coordinators – FADA GenX, shared key milestones and the vision for the next phase of GenX. Ms. Rashmi Kale, Chairperson – Women in FADA (WIF), emphasized the growing role of women in the sector and shared her vision for greater inclusivity and representation. Adding an entrepreneurial perspective, Mr. Niraj Singh, Founder & CEO, Spinny, delivered a special address on Driving Trust, Aiding Indian Mobility, highlighting how technology and trust are redefining consumer engagement. The session also witnessed the announcement of the OEM – Dealer Agreement, a landmark step towards institutionalizing fairness and collaboration in OEM – dealer relations.

The Conclave showcased the 5th Dealer Satisfaction Study (DSS’25) for OEMs, presented by Mr. Rahul Sharma, COO & Director, PremonAsia India, alongside Mr. Amar Jatin Sheth, Secretary – FADA. The DSS’25 Power Panel, moderated by Mr. Hormazd Sorabjee, Editor at Autocar India, featured industry leaders including Mr. Ashutosh Varma (Hero MotoCorp), Mr. Jyoti Malhotra (Volvo Car India), Mr. Nalinikanth Gollagunta (M&M Ltd), Mr. Rajesh Kaul (Tata Motors), Mr. Sanjeev Kumar (Ashok Leyland), Mr. Tarun Garg (Hyundai Motor India), Mr. Yogesh Mathur (Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India), and Mr. Bharat Kumar Chordia (Khivraj Automobiles). The discussion highlighted key strengths, opportunities, and best practices in OEM – dealer engagement, emphasizing transparent and growth-oriented partnerships. The session concluded with the presentation of the DSS’25 Awards recognizing OEMs for excellence in dealer satisfaction, the felicitation of event partners, and a Vote of Thanks delivered by Mr. Amar Jatin Sheth, Secretary – FADA.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone to Debut 4th November, 2025 on Audible, Followed by Monthly Releases of Each Audioboo

LONDON / NEWARK – 11th September, 2025 – Pottermore Publishing, the global digital Harry PotterTM publisher, and Audible, Inc., a leading creator and provider of premium audio storytelling, today announced additional casting in the powerhouse ensemble of more than 200 actors in Harry Potter: The Full Cast Audio Editions.

The newly announced casting of iconic roles includes Kit Harington as Professor Lockhart; Keira Knightley as Professor Umbridge; Iwan Rheon as Professor Lupin; Ruth Wilson as Bellatrix Lestrange; Ambika Mod as Nymphadora Tonks; Leo Woodall as Bill Weasley; Simon Pegg as Arthur Weasley; James McAvoy as Mad-Eye Moody; Gemma Whelan as Professor Sprout; and Matt Berry as Sir Cadogan.

lled to bring the fiercely determined Mad-Eye Moody to life in these dynamic audio editions from Pottermore and Audible. He’s a layered character, constantly shifting between battle-hardened intensity and unexpected moments of wisdom. Capturing his commanding presence was incredibly fun.”

Leo Woodall said, “In creating Bill Weasley’s adventures through voice, it is genuinely special to be part of bringing this world to life in a new way for listeners. From the stellar cast to the immersive sound world that Pottermore and Audible have put together, listeners everywhere will be given a new way to be transported directly into these celebrated stories.”

This news builds upon previous casting announcements for Harry Potter: The Full-Cast Audio Editions, which included Cush Jumbo OBE as the narrator, Hugh Laurie as Albus Dumbledore, Matthew Macfadyen as Lord Voldemort, Riz Ahmed as Professor Snape, Michelle Gomez as Professor McGonagall, Mark Addy as Hagrid, Alex Hassell as Lucius Malfoy, Daniel Mays as Dobby, and Sara and Avni Deshmukh as The Patil Twins. Rising stars Frankie Treadaway, Max Lester, and Arabella Stanton will portray Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger respectively in audiobooks one, two and three. Jaxon Knopf, Rhys Mulligan, and Nina Barker-Francis will assume the roles of the beloved trio (Harry, Ron, and Hermione respectively) beginning in audiobook four and carrying through to the epic conclusion. 

Additional cast members will be announced this autumn. These brand-new productions of the original seven stories by J.K. Rowling will showcase the listening experiences as never heard before—offering immersive audio entertainment through high-quality sound design in Dolby Atmos, stunning scoring, captivating performances from A-list actors, original music, and real-world sound capture.

Following Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone releasing on 4th November, 2025; Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets releases 16th December, 2025; Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban releases 13th January, 2026; Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire releases 10th February, 2026; Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix releases 10th March, 2026; Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince releases 14th April, 2026; culminating with the release of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows on 12th May, 2026.

National, September 11, 2025: MAPIC India 2025, the country’s premier retail ecosystem gathering, is set to host its 21st edition on 16th–17th September 2025 at Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai. This year’s theme, “Next-Gen Retail: Navigating Disruption, Seizing Opportunities,” will spotlight the emerging challenges, potential strategies, and the future growth trajectory for the retail industry amidst the global disruptions.

As India’s most influential retail event, MAPIC India 2025 will offer an unparalleled opportunity for stakeholders from both retail and developer industries to explore emerging trends, discover fresh product launches, emerging brands, and learn consumer-centric strategies. MAPIC will be a one-stop platform for business networking, exchanging opportunities and ideas for business growth.

Sharing his thoughts about the event, Mr. Umang Gupta, Country Head, RX India, said: “India’s retail industry is at the center of a massive transformation driven by changing domestic consumer needs while navigating the disruptions amidst the global economic chaos. MAPIC India 2025 is designed to provide a platform for the industry, developers, investors, and other retail stakeholders to forge a collaborative dialogue and develop actionable business opportunities for business expansion in Indian and international markets. This year MAPIC is bringing international brands to the Indian market who are keen to invest and leverage the burgeoning demand of Indian consumers. ”

Thought-provoking sessions, fireside chats, and panel discussions on the hot topics in Indian retail will be covered as part of the event conference sessions. Roadmap for integration of physical & digital retail, tech innovation in retail, and unlocking the growth potential in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, to sustainability in retail and real estate are some of the key business trends that will be discussed by policy makers, investors and brand owners at MAPIC.

A line-up of eminent speakers and CEOs from leading Retail & Developer brands like Beverly Hills Polo, Ducati, Liberty, Illycafe, PVR Inox, Swarovski, Hidesign, Aditya Birla Group, Design International, Caratlane, DLF Retail, Adidas, JLL, Ambience Group, NAREDCO Mahi, Lacoste, Pothys, Inorbit, Da Milano etc. will be seen sharing their expansion plans and investment strategies for global and domestic markets.