Author: Rabindra

Allcargo Group to provide scholarships to over 3000 students

Mumbai, 4th October 2024: Allcargo Group, an Indian-born global logistics conglomerate, is set to reach the milestone of more than 3000 student scholarships by the end of December 2024 in Mumbai and Mangalore as part of its Disha program run by the group’s CSR arm, the Avashya Foundation. The word Disha from Sanskrit language mean direction is a vital financial assistance program that has touched the lives of thousands of deserving students, enabling them to pursue their academic dreams.

Operational since 2010, the Disha program has been a beacon of hope to students facing financial challenges. The foundation has shaped the careers of 40,183 students through various chapters such as Disha Scholarship, Disha Careers Seed, and Disha Anando Program. This year, the program is being organised in three phases, and the foundation has distributed more than 473 scholarships to deserving candidates and is expected to distribute 2,200 more scholarships to students in Mangalore this month. As part of the scholarship program, the Disha Foundation screens socioeconomic and academic indicators to assess the needs of households and students.

The Disha program incorporates a holistic approach for students from primary school to post Graduation, focussing on their overall development. Through career counselling sessions, skill development workshops, and mentorship programs, the foundation helps students to make informed career choices and build the confidence necessary to succeed. Students under the age of 21, after clearing the evaluation rounds, can also avail financial support for other necessities to pursue further education.

The Disha Foundation has been successful in leveraging community partnerships. For instance, the Disha Foundation has collaborated with the Bunts Sangha association to drive the scholarship initiative in Bantwal. During the program held on September 29, 2024, scholarships were awarded to approximately 1,200 students from the Bunt community, as well as other communities.

Besides Bantwal, the foundation is operational across key districts of Mangalore, Udupi, Mumbai, Thane, and Navi Mumbai. The program has observed healthy gender participation; more than 50% of students are girls studying at 37 government and unaided/private institutions. Scholarships have been sought for high school, Pre- University Course, Degree, Industrial Training Institute, Engineering, Nursing, and Post-Graduation courses.

Dr. Nilratan Shende, Head, CSR, Allcargo Group, said, “Guided by the vision of Allcargo Group’s Founder and Chairman Mr. Shashi Kiran Shetty, we are committed to educational empowerment that extends beyond financial aid. We believe in the philosophy of empowering children to learn and excel in their preferred fields. We also believe that to create leaders of tomorrow, corporate India must synergise all its efforts with technological and human intervention. At Allcargo, we don’t just give financial support; we provide counselling sessions to students and parents and continue supporting them even after they complete education.”

As Allcargo Group’s Disha program continues to evolve, the company remains committed to empowering the next generation of leaders through education. By the end of 2024, crossing the milestone of 3,000 scholarships will mark yet another testament to the group’s dedication to nurturing talent, uplifting underprivileged communities, and fostering a brighter future for students across Maharashtra and Mangalore. With a holistic approach that combines financial support, mentorship, and career guidance, the Disha program continues to pave the way for a more equitable and educated society.

Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese Launches Biography ‘Skyward Bound’ at Dubai Forum

Dubai/India, October 5, 2024: The Hindustan Group of Institutions (HGI), a global leader in the field of education, is proud to announce that its Chairman, Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese, today launched his biography, ‘Skyward Bound’ at Asia One’s 24th Edition Asian Business and Social Forum. The event celebrates the Greatest Brands and Leaders of 2024 across Asia, Americas, Europe, and Africa.

Honorable Member of Parliament, Mr. Shokat Adam MP from Leicester, UK had recently launched the book in United Kingdon, which also marked the inauguration of the UK Alumni Chapter of Hindustan Group of Institutions. The event also featured the presence of several distinguished dignitaries and 50 alumni from various institutions within the group, fostering a sense of community and connection among graduates residing in the United Kingdom.

Nobel Laureate Sir Andre Konstantin Geim, co-discoverer of Graphene, who was recently in India had also unveiled the biography.

Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, Honorable Member of Parliament and Former Cabinet Minister of Information and Broadcasting and Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India was the Chief Guest for the event in Dubai. The presence of esteemed guests from the consulate, ministers, and global entrepreneurs was a testament to the importance of this occasion.

Dr. Anand expressed his gratitude to the organizers of the forum for the opportunity to share a significant milestone in his life – the release of his biography at the prestigious forum. He said, “The decision to launch my biography at this event was not a coincidental one. This forum represents the convergence of social responsibility and business acumen – two pillars that have been fundamental in shaping my journey. As I reflect on the path that has led me here, I am reminded of the myriad experiences, challenges, and triumphs that have molded my perspective and driven my commitment to educational excellence. Just as we gather here to exchange ideas and inspire one another, this biography aims to spark conversations, challenge assumptions, and perhaps even inspire future leaders to take up the mantle of responsible governance and social entrepreneurship.”

Dr. Anand Verghese paid tribute to his late father, Dr. KCG Verghese, whose visionary zeal laid the foundation for the Hindustan Group of Institutions with the motto, “To Make Every Man a Success and No Man a Failure.” He expressed gratitude to his family for their unwavering support: “Your support and faith have been my greatest strength”.

Highlighting the role of innovation in education, Dr. Anand remarked on how institutions like Hindustan Group are evolving their curricula to focus on real-world applications and fostering entrepreneurship among youth. He proudly announced a new partnership with Cranfield University to offer double-degree master’s programs, enhancing global educational standards for students.As he concluded his speech, Dr. Anand shared an inspiring message: “The future belongs to those who dare to think differently.” He called upon attendees to cultivate a spirit of innovation and passion for learning that will empower future generations. In addressing fellow educators and leaders, he urged collaboration in creating an educational ecosystem that empowers and enlightens. “Let us strive to build institutions that are not just the greatest in Asia or the world but those that create the greatest positive impact on humanity,” he said.

The Chairman of HGI also acknowledged the significance of this momentous occasion, stating, “As we launch this biography today, I see it not as a culmination but as a new beginning—a testament to what can be achieved when we dare to dream and have the courage to pursue those dreams relentlessly.”

Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese is a visionary thinker, leader and a renowned figure in the field of education, serving as the Chairman of The Hindustan Group of Institutions (HGI), which includes esteemed establishments such as Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (HITS), KCG College of Technology, and Hindustan College of Arts and Science, Dr. Anand Verghese has been instrumental in transforming HGI into a global educational powerhouse.

Established in 1966 by the legendary Edupreneur Dr. K.C.G. Verghese, HGI has a rich history of providing quality education. Under Dr. Anand Verghese’s leadership, the institution has achieved numerous accolades, including NAAC A+ accreditation and top rankings from IET, NBA, and AICTE. He has expanded the institution’s offerings to include a diverse range of programs in Engineering, Aviation, Management, Law, Health Sciences, Liberal Arts, and Online Learning.

Dr. Anand Verghese’s dedication, vision, and leadership have made a significant impact on the lives of countless students. His unwavering commitment to education has earned him widespread respect and admiration. Under his guidance, HGI is poised to continue its legacy of excellence and innovation, producing graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also socially responsible and equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Dr. Anand Verghese has fostered significant international alliances that provide students with exposure to emerging trends and cutting-edge technology. He has also been a strong advocate for entrepreneurship education through initiatives like Research Centres and Business Incubators on campus.

The biography launch was met with enthusiasm from participants at the forum, reinforcing the importance of education as a catalyst for change in society. This biography serves as a beacon for aspiring leaders and students alike, illustrating how one person’s vision can create ripples of change across borders.

DPIIT and Johnson Controls-Hitachi Launch Startup Incubator in Gujarat

Bengaluru ; 3rd October 2024: Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Ltd. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) to establish an incubator to support Manufacturing-focused startups in Gujarat. This marks a significant milestone in Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India’s commitment to nurturing innovation and supporting the manufacturing ecosystem in the country. This Startup Incubator aims to provide a robust platform for startups focused on selected manufacturing sectors, fostering technological advancements, sustainability, and energy efficiency. The MoU was formalized under the leadership of Shri. Sumeet Jarangal, Director, DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and Shri. Sanjay Sudhakaran, Managing Director, Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited., India & South Asia Region. The signing took place in the presence of Shri. Sanjiv, Joint Secretary, DPIIT.

Shri. Sumeet Jarangal, Director, DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry said that the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of “design in India, design for the world” is ushering India towards a Viksit Bharat. He added that the Government of India is committed to boosting the manufacturing sector with several initiatives such as Make in India and Production Linked Incentive scheme. He emphasized that a key element in boosting India’s manufacturing sector is to create a pipeline of innovation and an ecosystem of startups that drive this innovation. He expressed confidence that the partnership with Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Ltd. will provide the much needed nurturing and guidance to the young innovators and entrepreneurs of the country.

The incubator at Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited will provide mentorship and guidance to the manufacturing startups on various critical aspects such as concept-to-prototype development, project viability assessment, and go-to-market strategies. The company will also support them in managing potential funding needs along with other necessary services such as legal and IP filing to enable commercialization of innovative products.

Shri. Sanjay Sudhakaran, Managing Director of Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited in the India & South Asia Region, congratulated the Government of India and DPIIT for conceptualizing this initiative and for providing this unique platform that connects innovators with the industry. He noted that India has proven its innovative and entrepreneurial prowess in the IT sector with countless unicorns and it is now time for similar success in the manufacturing sector. He also said that Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited backed by Japanese innovation, technology and industry-leading expertise, has invested heavily in India to establish world-class R&D and manufacturing capabilities. He emphasized that the manufacturing facility at Kadi, Gujarat, which is one of the largest air conditioner manufacturing facilities in India and Global Development Center are committed to bringing innovative, premium and feature-rich air conditioning solutions to Indian customers.

Shri. Sanjay Sudhakaran also said that the company was delighted to partner with DPIIT to set up a state-of-the-art incubator at the company’s premises in Kadi, Gujarat. This strategic collaboration with DPIIT highlights Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Ltd.’s role in fostering innovation in the manufacturing sector, aligning with the Indian Government’s vision to support technological advancement and industrial growth. Through this incubator, manufacturing-focused startups would get the much-needed guidance and nurturing required to bring their innovations to life.

Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India headquarters in Kadi, Gujarat, is home to world-class Global Design Center, a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, and now, Startup Incubator. This incubator will not only provide startups an exposure to world-class R&D, prototyping, and testing processes, but also aims to support them in developing prototypes and commercializing the product. The company’s manufacturing facility at Kadi, one of India’s largest air conditioner manufacturing facilities, produces a diverse range of products, from room air conditioners, packaged light commercial and Commercial Air Conditioners as well as custom air conditioning solutions for specialized applications.

Bangalore Student beats 1000 skaters at CISCE Nationals Roller Skating Championship to bring home Gold

National,05th October 2024: The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) Nationals hosted their annual sporting event that brings together student-athletes from CISCE-affiliated schools across India in Mumbai recently. Monisha, a 7th-grade student from Bangalore’s Orchids The International School, Sahakar Nagar campus, made headlines by winning Gold in the 1 Lap Road and a Silver medal in the 1000 Meters Track at the CISCE Nationals in roller skating. Competing against close to 1000 skaters from across the country, her outstanding performance earned her a spot in the upcoming School Games Federation of India (SGFI) Nationals.

H.R. Ravish, National Head for Roller Skating at Orchids The International School, expressed pride in Monisha’s accomplishments, stating, “Her incredible performance at the CISCE Nationals is the result of unwavering determination and disciplined training. It is always a proud moment to see our students excel on such prestigious platforms, and we are confident she will bring home more laurels at the SGFI Nationals.”

Mrs. Nancy Syntika, Principal of Orchids The International School, added, “Monisha is an inspiring example for her peers, demonstrating that perseverance and hard work lead to success. At Orchids, we nurture both academic and extracurricular talents, and her achievements reflect our commitment to holistic development. We wish her all the best for the SGFI Nationals and are proud to have dedicated students like Monisha representing our school.”

Monisha’s dedication and rigorous training have placed her among the top young athletes in the country, further showcasing Orchids The International School’s commitment to fostering talent in various fields. As she prepares for the SGFI Nationals, her journey continues to inspire her peers and remains a source of pride for her school community.

Refex eVeelz grows its EV car fleet at Bengaluru Airport

Bengaluru, October 5th, 2024 – Refex eVeelz, a pioneer in electric vehicle (EV) mobility solutions, has expanded its presence at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) with the addition of 170+ eco-friendly EV taxis to the already existing nearly 200 cars. This initiative offers passengers a greener and more efficient transit option between Bengaluru city and the airport. The induction of these vehicles is part of a strategic collaboration with the airport operator through the “Airport Taxi” service.

The fleet enhancement was flagged off by Honorable Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri D.K. Shivakumar, who inaugurated the initiative during a prominent event, underscoring the state’s dedication to sustainable development and clean transportation.

Promoting clean mobility options, Refex eVeelz has now deployed and is currently operating over 570 electric vehicles in Bengaluru, greatly contributing to the city’s carbon emission reduction efforts and bolstering the sustainability goals of BIAL as well. This development is consistent with the goal of modernizing the city’s transportation network by giving commuters access to calmer and more environmentally friendly options.

Hon. Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri D.K. Shivakumar, present at the launch, articulated his vision for sustainable transport: “The introduction of these EV taxis marks a pivotal advancement in positioning Bengaluru as a frontrunner in green mobility. I commend Refex eVeelz and BIAL for their dedication to sustainability and for providing travelers with an eco-friendly alternative to traditional transport methods.”

Yash Jain, Director, RGML (Refex Group Mobility Limited) emphasized the significance of this launch: “This expansion is a significant step for us where our goal is to provide sustainable and dependable transportation for airport travelers while simultaneously minimizing the environmental footprint of urban mobility. By inducting these new EV cars into our fleet, we are strengthening our system to enhance the passenger experience and making significant progress towards a more sustainable future for Bengaluru and beyond.”

What Passengers Can Expect

Passengers can look forward to an improved travel experience with Refex eVeelz’s EV taxis, which emphasize both comfort and environmental responsibility. The EV fleet features a variety of vehicles to accommodate diverse preferences, ranging from eco-friendly choices such as the Tata Nexon EV, M&M XUV400, as well as more luxurious options such as the MG ZS EV. Additionally, travelers can take advantage of Refex eVeelz’s convenient pre-booking service, ensuring that a vehicle is available upon their arrival at the airport.

Expedited Boarding Lanes: Passengers benefit from swift access at both Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2), significantly reducing wait times.

Sustainable Travel: Opting for an electric vehicle (EV) taxi allows passengers to play an active role in minimizing carbon emissions and supporting environmentally friendly travel.

Leading the charge in sustainable mobility following the successful implementation of this initiative at Bengaluru Airport, Refex eVeelz is also set to broaden its reach to other prominent cities in India. The company has already introduced its EV taxi services at Chennai Airport and is currently in discussions with airport authorities in several major airports such as those at Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune, and Ahmedabad for potential partnerships. Refex eVeelz aspires to play a leading role with respect to the shift towards green mobility solutions at a larger scale.

Taneira launches ‘Celestial Inspirations’ campaign to celebrate the new Tarini collection this festive season

National, 5th October 2024: This festive season, Taneira, a TATA product, brightens the celebrations with the launch of its celestial-inspired collection, Tarini — a captivating tribute to the Indian woman who navigates her world with grace, strength, and timeless elegance. Highlighting the fusion of celestial elements with the women who adorn these sarees, the brand has unveiled a film to present an exquisite collection of celebration sarees.

Designed to resonate with a diverse audience and the spirit of festivity, the campaign beautifully symbolizes the woman as a radiant light that illuminates the world. It captures her graceful journey through a mesmerizing portrayal of the universe, celebrating her embrace of the magic within the cosmic order. She interacts effortlessly with constellations, glimmering lights, and celestial bodies that surround her. As she adorns each saree, the astral elements spring to life, vividly reflecting how the designs are inspired by the stars, the moon, and the universe. The fabric flows like stardust, glistening with patterns that mimic the night sky.

From the Ombre silk saree adorned with delicate moon-phase motifs to the opulent tissue saree with metallic textures and intricate gold embroidery, each piece in the Tarini Collection captures the essence of cosmic beauty. The warm grey saree, embellished with crushed tissue appliqué, and the vibrant teal blue organza invite you to channel your inner goddess. Meanwhile, the zodiac-inspired Chanderi with its woven constellations sparkles with celestial charm. Embrace the cosmic energy in the Saturn and moon-inspired saree or radiate like the sun in the vibrant yellow drape, echoing the brilliance of golden rays. Each saree is a celebration of your radiant beauty, wrapped in the mystical wonders of the universe.

Featuring nearly 100 meticulously crafted styles, each design embodies the spirit of the celestial universe—bold, confident, and radiant—mirroring the essence of the wearer. Crafted from luxurious silk, organza, tissue, and cotton, the collection draws inspiration from the geometry of space and the star-filled sky.

Sharing her thoughts on this campaign, Ms. Shalini Gupta, General Manager, Taneira, said, “Our ‘Celestial Inspirations’ campaign celebrates the Indian woman through stunning visuals and a powerful narrative. Each saree in the Tarini Collection is a work of art, reflecting the majesty of the universe. At Taneira, we believe every woman carries a celestial spark that embodies her inner strength and individuality. Meticulously crafted, each saree blends traditional artistry with modern elegance, radiating sophistication and mystique. We create sarees that enhance the beauty of the wearer, empowering her to embrace her cultural roots and celebrate her unique identity with pride.”

Funskool wins prestigious awards at TAITMA Toy Contest

New Delhi, October 05th, 2024: Funskool India Ltd, India’s leading toy manufacturer, has won prestigious awards under two categories in the recently-held Toy Contest by The All-India Toy Manufacturers’ Association (TAITMA) for its home-grown brand Giggles.

The awards were received by Mr. Mr. K A Shabir, Vice President, International Division and Manufacturing and Mr Philip Royappan, General Manager, Marketing of Funskool at the Kids India Exhibition, India’s leading B2B fair for toys, children’s products and sports goods, held in Mumbai.

Giggles Happy Lil’ Home- Iron, Giggles Happy Lil’ Home – Washing Machine and Giggles Happy Lil’ Home – Juicer won the awards in the Pretend & Role Play category, while Giggles Super Doc Playset won the award in the Top Classic Toy category.

Congratulating his team for their consistent hard work, R Jeswant, CEO, Funskool India Ltd, said, “We are elated at receiving these prestigious awards from TAITMA for the Giggles’ products. The creativity of Team Funskool and the drive to bring joy to kids through innovative and educational toys has paid rich dividends. Just as we bask at this glory, we will continue on our mission of creating fun and providing enriching play experiences for children around the world.”

The All-India Toy Manufacturers’ Association (TAITMA) is the apex body of the toy industry representing members from all over the country. TAITMA organises annual Toy exhibitions representing all categories of toys and these exhibitions witness the participation of the industry on an All-India Level. Annual Toy Awards and Merit certificates are presented to manufacturers of different categories of toys. This has resulted in more awareness about the quality and development of toys among the manufacturers.

Sun Neo Stars Brinda Dahal, Siddhi Sharma, and Stuti Vinkle Share Their Excitement for Navratri, Garba, and Music

The vibrant days of Garba, music, and celebration are here as Navratri begins! Sun Neo stars Brinda Dahal, Siddhi Sharma, and Stuti Vinkle, who play lead roles in Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya, Ishq Jabariya, and Saajha Sindoor respectively, share their excitement for the festive season and how they plan to celebrate despite their busy schedules.

Brinda Dahal, who plays Vaishnavi in Sun Neo’s Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya, expressed, “Navratri represents the victory of good over evil, just like Goddess Durga defeating Mahishasura. It reminds us that righteousness always prevails, and what’s wrong will stay wrong. Being from Assam, where Navratri isn’t celebrated as widely, I’m thrilled to experience it fully this year. I’m especially excited to attend Garba with my friends! Dressing up in vibrant outfits and accessories is something I absolutely love. I’ve even set aside time for special shopping just for this occasion, and I can’t wait to immerse myself in the festive spirit, dancing and celebrating with everyone. This Navratri is going to be truly special!”

Siddhi Sharma, who plays Gulki in Sun Neo’s Ishq Jabariya, shared, “At home during Navratri, we set up Mata Rani, and I paint her image on the wall. We celebrate Ashtami by hosting a Kanya Pooja, inviting young girls and serving them food. My sister and I also attend Garba. As a child, I wasn’t great at Garba, while my sister won prizes every year. I’d cry because she won, and I didn’t, even though I participated. Over time, I outgrew that and started focusing on enjoying the festival for myself. Now, I love the freedom of dancing during the last part of Garba, where we can just have fun and dance however we like.”

Stuti Vinkle, who plays Phooli in Sun Neo’s Saajha Sindoor, added, “Navratri is special to me because it encourages us to honour the positive feminine energy within. While I’m still getting familiar with the celebrations, I love participating in the Kanjak ritual, where kids gather to share food and have fun. I have fond memories of going out with friends for Kanjak as a child, collecting small gifts and money, which always brought me joy. Today, Navratri is a reminder of divine energy and the importance of women’s empowerment. If given the chance, I would love to portray Radha or Parvati, as they represent strength, devotion, and grace.”

Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya follows Vaishnavi (Brinda Dahal), an orphan who sees Chhathi Maiyya (Devoleena Bhattacharjee) as her mother. Ishq Jabariya tells the story of Gulki (Siddhi Sharma) and her journey to become an air hostess. Saajha Sindoor depicts Phooli (Stuti Vinkle), who is labeled an unmarried widow after her groom dies on their wedding day.

The Rare Edit – Season 4: A Curated Showcase of Timeless Elegance by Rare Jewels – A Ranka Legacy

Pune, October 2024 – Rare Jewels – A Ranka Legacy is proud to announce the launch of The Rare Edit – Season 4, an exclusive, bespoke showcase of timeless gold, diamond and polki masterpieces curated by the visionary duo Sheetal and Vastupal Ranka. This much-anticipated event is set to take place from 4th to 6th October 2024 at Rare Jewels’ flagship store in Pune.

This season’s edition of The Rare Edit will present an exquisite fusion of heritage and contemporary design, capturing the essence of luxury and craftsmanship that Rare Jewels has come to symbolize. The handpicked collection features intricately designed gold, diamond and polki pieces, catering to both the traditional and modern sensibilities of today’s discerning clientele.

At the heart of this exclusive event lies the intersection of timeless tradition and modern elegance. The Rare Edit offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience Rare Jewels’ heritage of craftsmanship, with each piece reflecting an artful balance between classic luxury and modern aspirations. From regal polki necklaces to contemporary diamond sets, each creation embodies the brand’s commitment to quality and design excellence.

Sharing her excitement, Sheetal Ranka, co-founder of Rare Jewels – A Ranka Legacy, said, “The Rare Edit is our labor of love—a thoughtful curation that reflects both the elegance of our heritage and the contemporary tastes of today’s clientele. Each piece in this collection tells a story and we are thrilled to offer our guests an experience that brings together beauty, craftsmanship and timelessness.”

Speaking on the inspiration behind the event, Vastupal Ranka, co-founder of Rare Jewels – A Ranka Legacy, added, “The Rare Edit is about creating an experience, not just displaying jewelry. We want our clients to feel a deep connection to the craftsmanship and the legacy behind each piece. This season, we’ve taken inspiration from both our heritage and modern aesthetics to offer something truly extraordinary.”

The Rings of Power Season 2 Finale Finally Reveals Daniel Weyman’s Character Identity

The highly anticipated finale of Prime Video’s The Lord of The Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2 is now streaming, and has caused a stir globally! Fans are buzzing with excitement as the climax takes them on a whirlwind of twists and mind-blowing reveals, but nothing prepared them for the jaw-dropping moment everyone had been waiting for – the true identity of the gray haired stranger played by Daniel Weyman. Social media was rife with numerous speculations and theories about who it could be, but they were floored when they learned the true identity! Just a line from the wizard blew viewers’ minds, “Gandalf. That’s what they’re going to call me, isn’t it?” It sent the Tolkien fans into an absolute frenzy, sealing this finale as an unforgettable moment in television history. But did you know that Weyman himself was kept in the dark about his character’s real identity until the very scene was shot?

Recalling the ‘pretty special moment’, Daniel Weyman shared, “This was the first time I’d heard anything about it. I didn’t feel too bothered about the buzz around his name because I was just playing these really precise scenes.” He added, “Literally right before filming that scene was the first time I learned that I was going to utter those words. It was a pretty special moment. To suddenly be given this information was a real pinch-me moment as a 47-year-old thinking back to my childhood dreams of being a wizard.”

Jennifer Salke, head of Amazon MGM Studios announced that over 150 million viewers have watched The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power season one globally. Season two has already generated over 55 million viewers before the finale premiered on the service, expecting the same level of growth and momentum for this season. The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2 boasts an outstanding cast, starring Morfydd Clark, Ismael Cruz Cordova, and Charlie Vickers, among many others. Created by J.D.Payne and Patrick Mckay, all eight episodes of the latest season are now available to stream in multiple languages, including English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam, exclusively on Prime Video.