Category news

Bangalore, 5th November: The Teen Indie Film Awards (TIFA) 2025, hosted by RV University’s School of Film, Media & Creative Arts in Bengaluru, is set to become an even more powerful stage for young filmmakers and content creators aged 13 to 25. Building on its recent growth, TIFA has quickly established itself as the city’s third-largest film festival after BIFFES and BISFF. At its core, TIFA is not just a festival, but a launchpad where budding filmmakers meet industry.

At the curtain raiser of TIFA 2025, H. N. Narahari Rao, President of Suchitra Film Society, unveiled the festival catalogue and teaser. The event also featured the screening of select films representing four continents and spanning four genres, offering a glimpse into the diversity and creative spirit of this year’s festival.

This year, the five-day festival is thoughtfully structured around key thematic zones, moving beyond a standard film celebration: Media Day (focused on journalism and media), AVGC Day (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics), Regional Cinema Day (Karnataka as state in focus) and the Awards Night.

The esteemed jury panel features prominent names, including Television and Film Actor Amit Behl; Editor – International at TV9, R Sridharan; Assamese filmmaker and critic Utpal Datta; CEO and Founder of The Bridge, Amanda Groom; and Founder of Custard Apple Pictures, M.N. Gujari, Author, Ed Vollans, among others.

TIFA 2025 is deepening its focus on industry connections through partnerships with leading media houses and film production companies. Major players in the realm of Film and Media, such as Frameboxx, Hombale Films, TV9, among others will host dedicated sessions and masterclasses throughout the festival.

The festival will host a series of high-stake competitions designed to discover emerging voices in Film, Media & Creative Arts, including the AVGC Hackathon, RJ Hunt, and The Talent Hunt for Emerging Filmmakers of Tomorrow (THEFT), a thrilling 48-hour filmmaking challenge where winners stand a chance to be launched by Hombale Films.

“At 300+ submissions from 40 countries and six continents, TIFA, in its fourth edition, has truly emerged as India’s largest student-led global film festival dedicated to teenage and young adult filmmakers” said Prof. Piyush Roy, Founding Dean of the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences at RV University. “With TIFA, we are creating a clear pathway from campus to screen, from idea to audience, and from young talent straight into professional careers.”

“With finalists having been selected across several genres – fiction, documentary, experimental and animation – and from different regions of Karnataka, India and the world, the festival is also emphasising its regional, national, and global breadth. TIFA will feature an opening film from North East India and has a clear roadmap for a future roadshow in Guwahati to further extend the platform’s national reach will seek to underline themes of childhood and diversity in the youth experience from across the world,” said Vedant Panamgipalli, 3rd Year BSc. Filmmaking Student at the School of Film, Media and Creative Arts and Festival Director of TIFA 2025.

Those interested in attending the festival must register ahead to join this unparalleled celebration of youth creativity.

Las Vegas, Nevada, 05th Novemver, 2025: Harkesh Rubber, a global leader in precision rubber sealing solutions, proudly announced that its Managing Director, Mr. Darshan Shah, has been recognised with the prestigious International Achievement Award – Outstanding TOC Champion Award at the TOC Innovation Summit 2025, presented by the Theory of Constraints International Certification Organization (TOCICO). 

The Summit, held in Las Vegas, brought together industry leaders and changemakers from around the world to explore breakthrough strategies in overcoming business constraints, improving process flow, and delivering faster results, without the need for additional resources or investment. 

Mr. Shah was invited as a speaker, presenting on the topic: “Sustaining TOC (Theory of Constraints) : Practical Lessons”, sharing real-world insights from Harkesh Rubber’s successful TOC journey. 

“This recognition is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the collective dedication, innovation, and relentless pursuit of excellence demonstrated by our team,” said Mr. Shah. “And to be honoured among global trailblazers is both humbling and inspiring. At Harkesh, we remain committed to pushing the envelope and contributing to the remarkable progress within the TOC community.”  

Drawing insights from manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, supply chain, and more, the event served as a global platform for sharing real-world TOC success stories. The awards recognise outstanding individuals and organizations for their significant contributions to TOC implementation across industries. Harkesh Rubber’s recognition reflects its sustained operational excellence, innovation-led culture, and continued impact across global markets.

Honda India Foundation signed MoU with Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi for Bharat Safety Program

New Delhi, 5^th November, 2025: Honda India Foundation (HIF), the CSR arm for all Honda group of companies in India has signed an MoU for the Bharat Safety Program in collaboration with Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi Sonipat Innovation Foundation. Aligned with Honda’s Global Vision 2050- Zero Traffic Collision, this initiative aims to support entrepreneurship and job creation by developing innovative and affordable solutions for safer two-wheeler mobility.

The Bharat Safety Program is a 2.5-year structured initiative. In the selection & Bootcamp phase, 15-20 Deeptech startups will be shortlisted and during the 24-month incubation phase, 5 Deeptech startups will receive focussed mentorship, product development and testing opportunities and collaborative access to government, industry and academic networks. The focus areas include over-speeding, helmet usage, rider behaviour, collision prevention and night-time visibility.

The MoU Signing ceremony was graced by Mr. Vinay Dhingra, Trustee, Honda India Foundation, Shri Rajeev Taneja, Operating Officer, Honda India Foundation, Shri Prabhu Nagaraj, Operating Officer, Corporate Affairs, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, Prof. Preeti Ranjan Panda, Dean, Corporate Relations, IIT Delhi, Dr. Nikhil Agarwal, Director, AIC IIT Delhi, Mr. Nalin Kohli, Board of Directors, AIC IIT Delhi, Prof. Somnath Baidya Roy, IIT Delhi and Mr. Tarun Chaturvedi, Chief Operating Officer, Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT), IIT Delhi, along with other senior officials and members from HIF, FITT & AIC IIT Delhi.

The partnership with AIC IIT Delhi Sonipat Innovation Foundation, established under NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission is a hub for research, innovation and product development. It leverages the strengths of academia, industry, and government to foster impactful solutions and drive meaningful change. It stands as a platform where startups, investors, corporates, venture capitalists, academia, government & policy makers come together to make a lasting impact on road safety and mobility.

This collaboration with HIF for Bharat Safety Program aligns with IIT Delhi’s mission on driving deep-tech innovations that enhance road safety and mobility.

The initiative is a first-of-its-kind HIF-backed accelerator program focused exclusively on road safety and two-wheeler mobility in India. By combining the strengths of Honda India Foundation, IIT Delhi and Atal Innovation Mission, the program seeks to make a measurable difference in public safety, especially in semi-urban and rural regions where road safety awareness and infrastructure need greater attention.

Fonzie Folksy’s ‘Evenfall’: A Fragrance That Feels Like Winter Wrapped in a Bottle

India, 04th November, 2025: There’s a certain magic in the way winter evenings unfold unhurried, calm and relaxed. Evenfall by Fonzie Folksy captures that very moment in a bottle a scent that feels like a soft embrace, cocooning you in warmth and quiet contemplation.

At the first spritz of Evenfall, Bergamot and Saffron awaken the senses with a gentle brightness before giving way to the comforting heart of Cardamom and Leather. As the night deepens, Oud and Patchouli take over grounding the scent in a rich, lingering warmth that feels like a soft cashmere wrap on a chilly evening.

Perfect for the season, Evenfall embodies everything we seek in a winter fragrance  depth, warmth, and an enveloping trail that stays close to the skin. Whether worn for an intimate evening-  indoors or a night under the winter stars, Evenfall’s unique blend of strength and serenity makes it your signature companion for the colder months.

Ideal for crisp evenings, candle-lit dinners, or quiet nights by the window, Evenfall is more than a perfume it’s an emotion distilled in amber and spice.

OSHO DHAM presents ‘Beloved Ones’ An Exhibition of Meditative Paintings by Anubodhi Inspired by Osho’s Darshan Diaries

India, 4th November, 2025: Osho Dham is geared up to host “Beloved Ones”, a deeply meditative exhibition of paintings by Anubodhi, opening on Saturday, November 8th, 2025, at 5:30 PM at Osho Dham, Jhatikra Road, Near Najafgarh with Ma Dharm Jyoti inaugurating the event.

On display through November and December 2025, the exhibition invites visitors to step into a sacred space of communion and silence, where art and meditation merge to evoke Osho’s timeless message of love.

Comprising twenty round oil-on-canvas works (18-inch diameter) and two large portraits of Osho (48 x 32 inches), Beloved Ones draws its inspiration from Osho’s Darshan Diaries, the intimate records of personal meetings between the master and his disciples. Each painting becomes a visual meditation a window into moments of awe, surrender, and bliss that transcend time.

Through these works, Anubodhi seeks to capture the “essence” of those darshan moments when the seeker and the master met in profound silence. The exhibition is designed not just as an art show but as an experience. Visitors are encouraged to pause, to look deeply, and to allow the paintings to draw them inward—into that space where form dissolves into formlessness, and love becomes the message.

Speaking about the inspiration behind Beloved Ones, Anubodhi shares, “My beloved ones, I love you—simple, direct, deep, and intimate. This message from Osho kept stirring my soul, asking for a voice. When words failed, colours spoke. These paintings are my surrender, my way of expressing the inexpressible. I invite viewers to simply stand, gaze, and allow the essence to touch their hearts—just as Osho touched mine.”

The exhibition space at Osho Dham, surrounded by peaceful greenery, will serve as an ideal backdrop for this contemplative experience. The serene atmosphere of the Osho Dhyan Mandir amplifies the meditative quality of Anubodhi’s art, creating a sanctuary where viewers can connect with Osho’s presence through silence and color.

Beloved Ones resonate with Osho’s enduring message: “Love is my message—let it be your message too.” Each canvas becomes a moment of communion, an invitation to rediscover the love, awareness, and stillness that Osho inspired in countless seekers around the world.

Dr. Nawab Mir Nasir Ali Khan Attends Kazakhstan Global Investment Roundtable in Astana

Hyderabad, 3rd November, 2025: His Excellency Dr. Nawab Mir Nasir Ali Khan, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Hyderabad for Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, India, attended the prestigious Kazakhstan Global Investment Roundtable (KGIR) held in Astana at the invitation of His Excellency Alibek Kuantyrov, Hon’ble Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The Kazakhstan Global Investment Roundtable (KGIR) is a premier international platform that brings together global investors, business leaders, and senior government officials to discuss strategic investment opportunities in Kazakhstan. The event focuses on attracting foreign direct investment and fostering cooperation across key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, green technology, digital transformation, and sustainable development.

KGIR 2025 witnessed the participation of over 500 high-level delegates, including ministers, ambassadors, representatives of international financial institutions, and leading global corporations from Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The roundtable reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s position as a dynamic regional investment hub and its commitment to fostering a transparent, competitive, and business-friendly environment.

During his visit, Dr. Nawab Mir Nasir Ali Khan also met His Excellency Y. K. Sailas Thangal, Ambassador of India to the Republic of Kazakhstan, at the Embassy of India in Astana. The two dignitaries discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation with a focus on trade, investment, and medical tourism between Kazakhstan and India. Dr. Khan also requested the Hon’ble Ambassador’s kind support in facilitating visa issuance for Kazakh nationals visiting India for business and healthcare purposes.

“Kazakhstan and India share strong diplomatic and economic ties. The Kazakhstan Global Investment Roundtable provides an excellent platform to expand collaboration, promote mutual investments, and explore emerging opportunities between our two nations,” said Dr. Nawab Mir Nasir Ali Khan.

Pune, India: In a remarkable achievement for Odisha’s sporting landscape, young climbing talent Sahil Kumar Das has become the first-ever athlete from the state to qualify for the IFSC Asian K Championship 2025. The prestigious event will be held at the PCMC Climbing Complex, Yoga Park, Pimple Saudagar, Pune, from November 1st to 4th, 2025.

The IFSC Asian K Championship, one of the top competitive climbing events in Asia, brings together elite climbers from across the continent. Sahil’s participation marks a historic moment for Odisha, inspiring many young athletes in the region to pursue the rapidly growing sport of competitive climbing.

Hailing from a modest background, Sahil’s journey has been defined by dedication, resilience, and relentless training. His qualification to the continental championship is seen as a breakthrough moment, showcasing both his personal discipline and the emerging climbing culture in Odisha.

Speaking ahead of his competition, Sahil expressed immense pride in representing his state on such a grand stage. Coaches and fellow athletes have lauded his consistency, strong technique, and sportsmanship—qualities that make him a promising contender in the event.

The championship in Pune will witness athletes competing in various climbing categories, offering Sahil a valuable platform to test his skills against some of Asia’s finest. Odisha’s sports community, fans, and supporters are eagerly following his journey, hoping to see him deliver a memorable performance.

Sahil’s achievement highlights his individual excellence and underscores the potential for adventure and climbing sports to thrive in Odisha with the right support and infrastructure.

Spirit of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ Resonates as Meghalaya Observes ‘Sardar @ 150’ with Unity March in Shillong

Mumbai / Shillong, November 1, 2025: Meghalaya celebrated ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ (National Unity Day) with fervour, joining the nationwide ‘Sardar @ 150 Unity March’ campaign to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, ‘The Iron Man of India’.

The event is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, with Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) as the nodal department, jointly organized in Shillong by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, National Service Scheme (NSS), and National Cadet Corps (NCC), Meghalaya.

The event was graced by Shri Rameswar Teli, Hon’ble Member of Rajya Sabha as the Guest of Honour, and Shri Sanbor Shullai, Hon’ble Minister of Arts and Culture, Govt. of Meghalaya as the Chief Guest.

In his keynote address, Shri Rameswar Teli, Member of Rajya Sabha, stated, “Today, we are all gathered here to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of India’s great son, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Ji.” He emphasized that the march is not just a program; it is a symbol of our country’s unity, integrity, and the spirit of nation-building. Honouring Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as the “Loh Purush” (Iron Man) who united over 560 princely states, Teli connected his legacy to the present day. He noted that under the leadership of India’s Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the country is moving forward on that same path of unity and faith. He concluded with a call for attendees, especially the youth, to take inspiration from the life of Sardar Patel and adopt his discipline, courage, and spirit of service to the nation.

Addressing the gathering at the Sardar @ 150 Unity Padayatra March 2025, Shri Sanbor Shullai, Hon’ble Minister of Arts and Culture, Govt. of Meghalaya, thanked the organizers and acknowledged the Chief Guest, Shri Rameshwar Teli. He articulated the objective of the march, executed in collaboration with the District Administration, NCC, and NSS, to honour the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He lauded Patel as the “Iron Man of India,” affirming the enduring conviction that India remains united and indivisible. He reiterated the Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi’s ideals through the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’, concluding with an appeal to the youth to foster love, unity, brotherhood, and peace.

Later, in his concluding address, Shri Rameswar Teli, Hon’ble Member of Rajya Sabha, interacted with the participants at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. He highlighted the 182-meter statue in Gujarat, stating, “India’s largest statue has been built at a place called Kevadia and you must visit it whenever you get a chance.” He concluded with a direct charge to the youth, saying, “You are students. Study well. Make the country proud”. He expressed his hope that they would become scientists, doctors, engineers, IAS officers, or politicians, declaring, “In this way, we will take the country forward”.

The program was held at the State Central Library Campus, with the ceremonial offering of floral tributes to Saradar Vallabhbhai Patel by the dignitaries and guests, followed by an official felicitation ceremony. A vibrant local cultural performance was presented, captivating the audience, showcasing Meghalaya’s rich cultural heritage.

Shri Rameswar Teli, Hon’ble Member of Rajya Sabha, and Shri Sanbor Shullai, Hon’ble Minister of Arts and Culture, Govt. of Meghalaya, flagged off the Unity March from the State Central Library Campus in the presence of all the dignitaries to culminate at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong.

The Unity March saw an active participation from MY Bharat Volunteers, NSS volunteers and NCC cadets, students, and officials from the District Administration. The march carried the messages of national unity and patriotism, reinforcing the core idea of unity across the society.

The successful organisation of the Unity March underscored the State’s alignment with the broader national goal of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’.

Dignitaries present included, Shri Rameswar Teli, Hon’ble Member of Rajya Sabha; Shri Sanbor Shullai, Hon’ble Minister of Arts and Culture, Govt. of Meghalaya; Shri Sampath Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Department of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of Meghalaya; Shri Richard Yanthan, IAS, Joint Secretary, Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, Govt. of Meghalaya; Shri D.D. Shira, MCS, Director, Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Govt. of Meghalaya; Shri Sh Jangjilong, Regional Director NSS West Bengal and Representative from Govt. of India; Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports; Smti M. Lyngdoh, State Secretary, Bharat Scout and Guides; Col. Anil Jhakar, NCC Headquarters; Shri S.P. Singh, MY Bharat; Shri Gautam Warjri, MCS, ADC East Khasi Hills; Shri Kamakhya Singh, S.P. Traffic, East Khasi Hills and officials from other allied departments.

The sacred month of Kartik holds immense significance in Odisha’s spiritual calendar. Among its many divine observances, Amla Navami, also known as Radha Pada Darshan, stands out as a festival that beautifully blends devotion, mythology, and reverence for nature. Celebrated on the ninth day (Navami) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of Kartik month, the day is believed to bring endless prosperity, purity, and blessings to devotees.

The Sacred Tree of Immortality

On this auspicious day, devotees worship the Amla (Indian Gooseberry) tree, considered a sacred embodiment of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that any act of charity or devotion performed under an Amla tree on this day yields Akshaya Punya—merit that never diminishes. This belief gives the festival another revered name, Akshaya Navami.

In traditional Odia households, especially among Habisyalis (women observing Kartik vows), special rituals are performed under the shade of the Amla tree. Devotees bathe the image of Lord Vishnu with holy water beneath the tree, cook simple sanctified food (Habisya Anna), and partake in it as prasada. Circumambulating the tree is believed to grant longevity, good health, and divine blessings. The day is thus not only a religious observance but also a celebration of nature’s generosity — expressing gratitude to the life-giving environment.

The Legend of Radha Pada Darshan

Beyond its ecological symbolism, Amla Navami holds a deeply spiritual connection in Odisha, particularly at the Sakhigopal Temple, near Puri. Here, the festival coincides with the Radha Pada Darshan Yatra, a day when devotees are granted a rare glimpse of Maa Radha’s sacred feet — a vision believed to absolve one of countless sins and bless the devotee with eternal bliss.

According to the temple legend, Lord Krishna once appeared in the form of Sakhigopal (Witness Gopal) to defend the honor of a humble devotee. Over centuries, the divine idol journeyed from Vrindavan to Kanchi, and eventually to Odisha, where King Purushottama Deva enshrined Him near Puri. But when the Lord took residence there, His beloved Radha remained in Vrindavan, leading to their separation. To fulfill this divine longing, Radha was later reborn in human form as Lakshmi, the daughter of the temple priest Beleswar Mahapatra of Satyabadi. Each night, the Lord would secretly visit her — their reunion celebrated in the sacred groves known as Bakula Ban, often described as “Gupta Vrindavan” or the hidden Vrindavan of Odisha.

When the king mistakenly accused the priest of wrongdoing, Lord Sakhigopal appeared in the king’s dream, revealing the divine truth and commanding that a golden idol of Radha be created and installed beside Him. The day this idol was consecrated, Lakshmi left her mortal body, and her tomb was later transformed into a Mahavir Temple, which still stands near the shrine.

The Divine Vision and the Odia Attire

The story further tells that, in memory of Radha’s human incarnation, her idol remained draped year-round in long garments — concealing her divine feet. But once a year, on Amla Navami, she appears in her Odia attire (Odiani Besha), and devotees are blessed with the rare opportunity of Radha Pada Darshan — the sacred sight of her lotus feet.

On this day, both deities are dressed in resplendent attire. Lord Gopal is adorned in the Natabara Besha (the charming dancer form), wearing a golden crown and holding a golden flute, while Maa Radha is decorated with traditional Odia ornaments — paunji (anklets), kundala (earrings), chandrika, nose ring, and the sacred Amla mala (necklace made of gooseberries). The temple resonates with devotional songs, rituals, and the fragrance of flowers and incense, as thousands gather for a glimpse of the divine pair.

Outside the temple, devotees tie red threads smeared with vermilion around Amla trees, praying for the fulfillment of their wishes, marital happiness, and the well-being of their children.

A Celebration of Nature, Faith, and Eternal Love

While the legends and rituals give the day its deep spiritual essence, Amla Navami also stands as a reminder of India’s ancient tradition of living in harmony with nature. Worshipping the Amla tree signifies gratitude to the environment that sustains life. Sitting beneath its shade or partaking of food there is believed to heal the body and calm the mind.

The spiritual significance of the day — the union of Radha and Krishna, nature and divinity, devotion and gratitude — makes Amla Navami a celebration of love and balance. Whether one believes in the myths or cherishes the symbolism, the festival’s essence remains universal: to honour the divine in nature, to find purity in devotion, and to live in harmony with all that sustains us.

Conclusion

Amla Navami and Radha Pada Darshan together remind us that faith is not separate from nature — it flows through the trees, rivers, and traditions that define our culture.

From Mustangs to Minis: Over 100 Motoring Enthusiasts to Begin Himalayan Expedition with Yokohama India on November 2

Pan India, 31st October, 2025: Yokohama India has announced its partnership with The Classic Himalayan Drive 2025, an iconic 10-day motoring expedition that retraces the legendary routes of the 1980’s Himalayan Rallies across some of the region’s most challenging terrains and breathtaking views.

Scheduled to flag off on November 2, the drive will see participation of over 100 motoring enthusiasts and an exceptional lineup of classic cars, including the 1958 Mercedes 180A, 1970 Ford Mustang, 2000 Mini Cooper, Lexus 470, Jaguar XK8, and Mercedes 230 CE, from Europe, the UK, Sri Lanka and India.

The Classic Himalayan Drive 2025 serves as a vibrant platform to bring the automotive icons back to life on the road. Participants will traverse the diverse Himalayan landscapes of Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Manali, and other Himalayan gems blending motoring nostalgia with modern-day comfort, adventure, and camaraderie.

The convoy will have a dedicated Pitstop at Yokohama Club Network Batra Tyres, Chandigarh, on November 9th, providing comprehensive tyre health check-ups, wheel alignment, and balancing services for participating vehicles. Enthusiasts are also welcome to view these timeless classics up close.

Speaking on the partnership, Gaurav Mahajan, Head of Marketing, Yokohama India, said: “The Classic Himalayan Drive is more than a motoring event; it’s a tribute to engineering, endurance, and the pure joy of driving. For us, this partnership is a natural extension of Yokohama’s philosophy; committed to delivering the best quality products, which help consumers get more from their motoring lifestyle.