Category Archives: News

Shemaroo Umang’s Main Dil Tum Dhadkan Celebrates 100 Episode Milestone

In the world of showbiz, every milestone is a reason to celebrate, and when a show hits the incredible mark of 100 episodes, the excitement on set is truly unmatched. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of not just the actors but the entire team who make it all possible. The same electrifying energy was felt on the set of Shemaroo Umang’s popular show Main Dil Tum Dhadkan, as it celebrated this remarkable achievement.

The atmosphere was filled with joy and gratitude as the cast and crew of the show came together to mark this special occasion—a journey filled with emotions, growth, and countless unforgettable moments. Lead actors Radhika Muthukumar, Neelu Vaghela, and Zohaib Siddiqui shared heartfelt stories about their experiences, the bonds they’ve built, and what makes this milestone so meaningful. It’s not just a celebration of storytelling but a reflection of the shared rollercoaster ride that brought them here.

Radhika Muthukumar, who plays Vrinda, expressed her gratitude, saying, “Reaching 100 episodes feels like a dream come true. Vrinda’s journey of redefining the meaning of motherhood and her unbreakable bond with her son, Kanha, has been full of memorable moments, challenges, and triumphs. I still remember celebrating festivals like Diwali the set with the entire team; it felt like a family. The love and support of our audience mean everything to me. Every scene, every emotion, has been a labor of love, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”

Neelu Vaghela, known for her role as Rajeshwari Devi, shared her thoughts: “For me, this journey has been about growth and connection. Rajeshwari is a mother who wants the best for her family, but she also has an orthodox perspective. Playing this character has been a remarkable experience. Over the months, we’ve shared countless laughs on set, and it’s been a beautiful journey. The love from viewers makes all the hard work worth it. I feel so lucky to be part of a show that resonates with so many hearts.”

Zohaib Siddiqui, who plays Keshav, added an emotional note, “100 episodes later, Main Dil Tum Dhadkan is not just a show for me, it’s been my home. Keshav’s character has taught me so much about sacrifice and love. I’ll never forget the late-night shoots and the camaraderie we share. The bond we’ve built as a team reflects in the show, and I am grateful to our viewers for embracing us so warmly.”

8 Must-Know Edtech Trends Impacting K-12 Classrooms in India

The education system in India is changing quickly, and technology is having a big impact on how students learn. From customized learning to online classrooms, the K-12 education sector is experiencing exciting changes that are making learning more interesting and easier to access. In this article, we’ll look at 8 important education technology trends that are changing classrooms all over the country. We’ll also see how these trends are helping both teachers and students succeed in this new era of learning.

Personalized Learning: Tailored to Each Student
Personalized learning uses smart technology like AI and machine learning to adjust lessons to fit each student’s needs, letting them learn at their own speed. This method makes learning more interesting and motivating by focusing on what students are good at. For example, AASOKA’s personalized learning approach uses advanced tools and a curriculum designed to match the NEP 2020 and NCF guidelines. This ensures every student gets a learning plan made just for them, helping them do their best.

Blended Learning: A Hybrid Approach
Blended learning mixes online and face-to-face teaching, giving students the freedom to choose between live classes and studying at their own pace. It also improves traditional teaching by using digital tools, making learning more engaging. This approach is expected to become the norm, providing flexibility and adaptability in education.

Gamification: Making Learning Fun
Gamification brings rewards and challenges into lessons, making learning very fun and impactful, so the information is memorized better. As these tools improve, they will be used more in classrooms, making learning both enjoyable and effective.

AI and Predictive Analytics: Data-Driven Insights
AI-based tools that predict student performance can show where students might need extra help, letting teachers step in sooner. This way, teaching can be adjusted to fit each student’s needs, making learning more effective. In the future, AI will play a bigger role in classrooms. For instance, Zamit uses its AI system, which includes Measure, Improve, and Monitor features, along with Learner Analytics, to keep track of how students are doing and provide useful information to improve their learning.

AR/VR: Immersive Learning
AR and VR bring interactive 3D experiences for learning purposes and make students engaged in their own learning while exploring complex concepts. Because of these accessibility factors, they will eventually make their way into the school lessons, thereby enhancing rich immersive education.

STEM/STEAM Education: Skills for the Future
STEM and STEAM programs encourage creativity and critical thinking through activities like coding and robotics. These programs prepare students for future careers in technology and science while fostering problem-solving skills. The emphasis on STEM/STEAM education will continue to grow in the coming years.

Cloud Computing: Easy Access and Collaboration
Cloud computing, on the other hand, permits access to all digital resources and even textbooks. It offers easy access to learning materials from anywhere at any time, reducing the cost and promoting effortless teamwork.

AI-Powered Chatbots: Personalized Assistance for Students
AI-powered chatbots and voice-controlled assistants are transforming the way learning resources are accessed by students. These tools immediately provide answers to questions, support with assignments, and provide opportunities for interactive learning. Since they adjust to each learner’s style of learning and his or her specific needs, it gives support and enhances engagement with the learning process.

With this, edtech trends are rewriting the K-12 education scenario in India in terms of learning experiences that can be more personal, engaging, and flexible. As technology changes, schools will have better instruments for supporting different styles of learning that will help bring out the full potential of each student and make them ready for future challenges. Bright times await education with immense possibilities for innovation and growth.

Prime Video Releases Official Trailer for the Highly Anticipated Third and Final Season of Harlem

CULVER CITY, California—January 9, 2025—After a shocking Season Two finale cliffhanger that left audiences on the edge of their seats, Harlem will return for its third and final season on January 23, exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide. From creator and writer Tracy Oliver (Girls Trip), Harlem Season Three will follow the core four women on the precipice of change like never before. Whether it be motherhood, singlehood, sisterhood, complicated career journeys, or even more complicated families, our stylish and ambitious best girlfriends strive to finally choose themselves above all else.

“As we prepare to say goodbye to this incredible series, we’re both grateful for the journey Tracy has taken us on and excited for our global customers to experience a final season that truly honors these characters,” said Vernon Sanders, head of television, Amazon MGM Studios. “This chapter may be coming to a close, but the series will continue to resonate for years to come.”

“I’m beyond grateful to the whole team at Amazon for giving me the chance of a lifetime to tell these four Black women’s stories and shoot it in the city I love: Harlem. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m honored to see the impact it’s made in the culture, as well as the impact it’s had on all of us who’ve been blessed to work on it.” said Tracy Oliver, creator, writer and Executive Producer for Harlem. “A huge thank you to everyone who’s watched the show. I’m excited to finally share our best season yet.”

The final season will welcome newcomers Kofi Siriboe, Logan Browning, Robin Givens, and Gail Bean to join the cast in recurring roles. Siriboe will portray Seth, an MLB player whose confident, charming, and sweet mannerisms land him a spot in one of the ladies’ hearts. Browning will portray Portia, an edgy and beautiful woman from Ian’s (Tyler Lepley) childhood, whose return to Harlem causes a stir. Bean will portray Given’s daughter Eva, a driven, yet playful venture capitalist who has started working with Tye (Jerrie Johnson).

Harlem Season Three is produced by Amazon MGM Studios and Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, in association with Paper Kite Productions. In addition to creator, writer, and executive producer Tracy Oliver, Paper Kite’s Amy Poehler (Russian Doll) and Kim Lessing (Moxie) serve as executive producers, alongside 3 Arts’ Dave Becky (True Story), Britt Matt (First Wives Club), and 13-time Grammy Award winner Pharrell Williams (Hidden Figures) and Mimi Valdés (Roxanne Roxanne) from i am OTHER.

Exotel Suite of AI-Powered Communication Solutions Now Available in the Microsoft Azure Marketplace

Bengaluru, India 9th January 2025 – Exotel, a leading provider of AI transformation for customer engagement and experience, today announced the availability of its suite of AI-powered communication solutions designed for enterprises focused on optimizing customer engagement and experience in the Microsoft Azure Marketplace, an online store providing applications and services for use on Azure. Exotel customers can now take advantage of the productive and trusted Azure cloud platform, with streamlined deployment and management. These solutions range from Intelligent Virtual Assistants (IVA) to Conversational Quality Analysis (CQA) and Enterprise Contact Center. Exotel’s offerings, including CPaaS, CCaaS, and Conversational AI, work to unify customer interactions, boost conversions through personalized outreach, reduce costs via automation, and enhance agent efficiency.

By leveraging Exotel’s cloud communication platform, enterprises can significantly reduce their time to market, enabling faster deployment of customer engagement solutions. The platform’s cloud-based architecture ensures enhanced scalability, flexibility, and security, allowing businesses to quickly adapt to evolving customer needs while improving responsiveness across all communication channels. With cloud adoption rapidly growing in the enterprise market, Exotel’s IVA empowers companies to deliver superior customer experiences (CX) over the cloud while optimizing operational efficiency and reducing infrastructure costs.

Disparate systems across departments often lead to fragmented data and disjointed customer experiences. Exotel integrates the dismantling of data silos, unifying information sources, and creating a comprehensive customer conversational profile that humanizes interactions across channels.

“As we strengthen our longstanding relationship with Microsoft, we are committed to delivering innovative solutions that enhance customer engagement and streamline communication for businesses. By leveraging AI technologies and cloud platforms, we are enabling businesses to not only meet but exceed customer expectations, driving growth and innovation in the digital age.” said Ishwar Sridharan, Co-Founder, Exotel.

Himani Agrawal, Chief Partner Officer, Microsoft India, said, “We are pleased to welcome Exotel to the Microsoft Azure Marketplace, providing our partners with great exposure to cloud customers worldwide. Leveraging Azure’s scalability, reliability, and agility, Exotel will empower enterprises to accelerate their AI innovation with trust and confidence. Together, we are excited to unlock the transformative potential of AI-powered customer experiences for businesses.”

Exotel, as a partner in the Azure marketplace and a key player in AI-driven customer communication transformation, is committed to empowering enterprises with innovative solutions that drive revenue growth, optimize costs, and elevate customer experiences.

The Azure Marketplace is an online market for buying and selling cloud solutions certified to run on Azure. The Azure Marketplace helps connect companies seeking innovative, cloud-based solutions with partners who have developed solutions that are ready to use.

NMDC Revolutionizes Rural Healthcare and Sports with Medical Vans and Sports Complex in Karnataka

Bangalore, 09 January 2025: In a transformative step towards rural empowerment, NMDC Ltd, India’s largest iron ore producer, has provided ten fully equipped Medical Mobile Vans and laid the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art Sports Complex in Sandur Taluk, Karnataka. Ms. Annapurna, MLA, Sandur Taluk, and Shri S. B. Singh, Head of Project, NMDC, flagged off the Medical Mobile Vans and jointly laid the foundation stone for the Sports Complex alongside the District Forest Officer of Bellary District.

NMDC has invested ₹7 crores to provide ten mobile medical vans for 2 years period in partnership with District Authorities, ensuring seamless healthcare access to the rural population across 97 villages in Sandur Taluka. Each mobile medical van, equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and staffed by a team of trained professionals, including a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, and lab technician, will bring critical healthcare services directly to residents’ doorstep, eliminating the need for arduous travel to the district headquarters hospital in Bellary.

The vans are equipped to conduct vital diagnostic tests such as those for pregnancy, typhoid, diabetes, haemoglobin levels, and more. Emergency provisions like oxygen cylinders further enhance their utility. These medical vans will visit all 97 villages in the region on a weekly rotation, ensuring timely medical attention at the doorstep of the residents. This initiative is set to significantly reduce the burden of healthcare access in the region, meeting immediate medical needs efficiently and fostering a healthier, more resilient community.

In addition to healthcare, to nurture young talents and promote fitness in the region, NMDC is investing ₹2 crores in building a modern Sports Complex in Sandur town. This facility will feature amenities like a badminton court, table tennis area, gym, and other professional-grade infrastructure to cater to local youth and sports enthusiasts. This initiative not only promises to ignite aspirations for professional sports careers but also aims to cultivate a culture of health and physical activity in the region. This cutting-edge sports complex will be open to access by the local population.

These initiatives, funded under NMDC’s CSR Fund underscore the organization’s holistic approach to community upliftment in the areas it operates. By bridging gaps in essential healthcare services and fostering avenues for sports excellence, NMDC is shaping a future where people of Sandur Taluk can thrive with improved well-being and greater opportunities.

Speaking on the initiative, Shri Amitava Mukherjee, CMD (Addl. Charge), NMDC said, “Our mission at NMDC extends beyond mining; it is about enriching lives. The launch of these Medical Mobile Vans and the laying off foundation of the Sports Complex reaffirm our commitment to the people of Donimalai region. We at NMDC believe that healthcare and sports are fundamental to the development of a vibrant and resilient community and we are proud to play a role in building a healthier, stronger, and more aspirational future for the people in Bellary-Hospet region.”

Through these landmark initiatives, NMDC is not just addressing immediate community needs but is also investing in the long-term development of Donimalai region, empowering its people and nurturing aspirations for a brighter tomorrow.

ZEISS announces the launch of the most awaited ZEISS Supreme Zoom Radiance Lenses in India

Bengaluru 8 January 2025: ZEISS, a leading brand in optics and optoelectronics, announces the launch of ZEISS Supreme Zoom Radiance lenses, a one-of-a-kind set of cine zooms matching the Supreme Prime Radiance. The lenses are designed to help cinematographers establish their own unique style, resulting in the coveted cinematic look with stunning bokeh and broadcast lens functionality.

True to the ZEISS Supreme lens philosophy, the new zoom line offers a versatile and visually stunning image character. With a front diameter of 114 mm and iris, focus, and zoom ring locations that are uniform and standardized, the ZEISS Supreme Zoom Radiance was designed with professional workflows in mind. This ensures simple interchangeability between ZEISS Supreme Prime and Zoom lenses. Further, this also results in improved production efficiency by streamlining the on-set experience and reducing time spent making corrections. The latest ZEISS Supreme Zoom Radiance lenses can be used in various indoor and outdoor environments given their sophisticated optical capabilities and compact in size that weights no more than 3.18 kg (7.01 lbs).

Commenting on the latest addition to the Indian market, Umender Shah, Head of Business- Cinematography, India & Neighboring Markets India said, “We are thrilled to introduce the ZEISS Supreme Zoom Radiance Lens to the Indian market, bringing filmmakers a new dimension in optical excellence and creative possibilities. With its cutting-edge technology and uncompromising quality, this lens is designed to empower the creative minds in the Indian film and television industry, enabling them to craft stories with exceptional clarity, depth, and emotion. At ZEISS, we remain committed to delivering innovations that push the boundaries of storytelling and set new benchmarks in cinematography.”

“The latest addition will complement our existing line of ZEISS Supreme Prime Radiance lenses and can also be paired with other ZEISS Prime Sets, like Standard Supreme Primes to add lovely flares, increasing the set’s artistic possibilities.” Umender Shah added.

In addition to the regular metadata supplied by the Cooke/i technology protocol, the latest ZEISS Supreme Zoom Radiance Lenses are outfitted with the ZEISS eXtended Data technology, which provides frame-by-frame information on lens vignetting and distortion. This makes workflow simpler and faster, especially for virtual production and visual effects.

The latest launch are part of the ZEISS CinCraft ecosystem. They can be accessed via the “ZEISS Supreme Lenses” Virtual Lens Package (VLP), which skips the time-consuming lens calibration process when using the Radiance Zooms and is free of cost when paired with the CinCraft Scenario camera tracking system.

How India Ubered in 2024 – A year in rear view

Bangalore, 8 January 2025: At the outset of new year Uber India has released highlights of its annual data report – How India Ubered – outlining the key trends from how Indians travelled during 2024.

The comprehensive data analysis reveals interesting trends, including the cities with the highest Uber usage, the total distance covered by Uber rides, trends in intercity travel, the prevalence of late-night trips in some cities, and various rider preferences. The report underscores the growing importance of ridesharing in India and highlights Uber’s commitment to fostering sustainable urban mobility.

In 2024, Indians Ubered more than ever before, setting new benchmarks and travel trends shaping mobility in the country. Collectively, Uber trips spanned a staggering 9.2 billion kilometers in 2024. To put this into perspective, if someone were to cover this distance at a constant speed of 120 km/h (the maximum allowed on India’s National Expressways) it would take 8,752 years to complete. That’s about as many years humans took to reach from the Neolithic age to gen AI.

The riders of Kochi were loved most by drivers during the year, with the city having the highest average rider rating of 4.90 out of 5. As many as 95.8% of the trips rated in Kochi saw drivers giving their riders a full 5-star rating. Chandigarh had the second-highest average rider rating at 4.816, followed by Pune marginally behind at 4.815.

Among individual products, Uber Auto and Uber Go were most favored, with the former slightly edging out its four-wheeled counterpart. This growth also reflects a shift from traditional street-hailing to app-based bookings for autorickshaws.

The cities leading in Uber trips for 2024 were Delhi-NCR, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune, and Kolkata.

While Delhi-NCR did have the overall highest number of trips, Mumbai beat the national capital in terms of the most late-night trips booked, and indulged in weekend travel the most. Residents of Bangalore used Uber for their work commute the most among all cities, and had the highest number of office-hour trips booked.

Bengaluru overtakes Chennai and emerges as India’s best city for working women in 2024 in the ‘Top Cities for Women in India’ Survey conducted by the Avtar Group

Bangalore, January 8, 2024

Avtar group, India’s pioneer in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) solutions and India’s leading workplace culture consulting firm, announced the third edition of ‘Top Cities for Women in India (TCWI)’ index today. Karnataka’s State Capital Bengaluru, reigns supreme by topping the ranking for being the most inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities for working women. Bengaluru has scored high in skilling and employment for women, infrastructure and caregiving support.

Speaking at the press conference, Dr Saundarya Rajesh, Founder-President, Avtar group said, “Cities are the foundations of opportunity. They shape how women live, work, and thrive. So, a clear understanding of the core principles and cultural fabric of our cities is crucial for advancing women’s progress and inclusion. Avtar’s annual index ‘Top Cities for Women in India” does precisely that, using a data-centric and evidence-based approach. And, to realize our dream of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, we need the Indian Women Professionals to succeed on par with men. This is possible only if cities are truly gender-inclusive and offer an atmosphere where women’s strengths can be optimized. This means not just providing safe streets, accessible healthcare & education and affordable living to women, which are largely reparatory measures, but also competitive avenues for women’s economic success and opportunities for them to thrive as business leaders. Let’s invest in women-led projects and optimize women’s lives and careers”.

ASPA to Host the Sixth Edition of Traceability and Authentication Forum

New Delhi, 08th January 2025- The Authentication Solution Providers’ Association (ASPA), in collaboration with The Rise, will host the 6th edition of the Traceability and Authentication Forum (TAF 2025) on 17-18 March 2025 at Eros Hotel, Nehru Place, New Delhi. This two-day event will focus on addressing counterfeiting issues and advancing product authenticity.

TAF 2025, themed “Path to a Secure Future – Authentication and Traceability for All,” is recognized as a premier global platform for tackling challenges related to counterfeiting, traceability, and brand protection. The forum will showcase innovations such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, digital authentication tools, holograms, NFC/RFID technologies, and track-and-trace systems. Policymakers, government officials, regulators, industry leaders, and technology experts will come together to discuss emerging challenges, share best practices, and explore strategies for enhancing product authenticity and consumer trust.

Mr. Manoj Kochar, President of ASPA, highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “The 6th edition of TAF reaffirms our commitment to tackling counterfeiting through innovative solutions and industry collaboration. This event will serve as a pivotal platform for exchanging ideas and strategies to ensure product authenticity and consumer trust.”

Mr. Sandipan Ray, Founder & Director of The Rise, said – “We are excited to collaborate with ASPA for the sixth edition of TAF in 2025. ASPA has set new benchmarks in tackling counterfeiting issues since its inception, through implementing advanced authenticated solutions. We remain committed to driving awareness among consumers to battle this menace of counterfeiting through poignant discussions and create quantifiable outcomes.”

The forum will also provide opportunities for participants to forge collaborations through dedicated networking sessions. It will conclude with the prestigious ASPA Awards, recognizing excellence and innovation in the development and implementation of authentication and traceability solutions.

FILA India Launches Sports Inspired Lifestyle Collection

FILA India is turning up the heat this season with the launch of its latest collection, a celebration of street culture and bold self-expression. Designed for the urban trailblazer, this collection redefines modern streetwear by merging FILA’s iconic sporty aesthetic with contemporary trends, creating versatile pieces that exude confidence and style.

FILA India’s latest collection seamlessly blends fashion with functionality, offering oversized tees, edgy co-ords, versatile joggers, and basketball-inspired designs that reflect the brand’s Italian legacy. With premium-quality fabrics and meticulous attention to detail, each piece embodies the bold, unconventional spirit of street style. From retro-digital prints to sleek athleisure fits, the collection goes beyond apparel—it’s an attitude. Crafted for those who dare to push boundaries, embrace their uniqueness, and redefine everyday style with unapologetic confidence, this range celebrates individuality and the essence of modern streetwear.

Key Drops From The Collection:

Trig & Toad (Winter Co-ords)
Unisex

If you are looking for an anti-fit comfort winter statement look that combines the power of basics with a subtle ode to basketball art. The co-ord set combines of thick hoodie with a striking graffiti art in the back and baggy joggers to for an oversized street look. The top wear comes with a pocket in the center to keep your hands warm. For a complete street look, you can pair them with FILA new bucket hat and FILA TSS-RI High Sneakers

The co-ord set is available in Khaki, Black & Blue colour.

Curris (Oversized Tee)
Unisex

Another statement piece from the Basketball collection, Curris is perfect for layering or standalone wear. These oversized tees embody streetwear chic while maintaining comfort, showcasing a collage celebrating the spirit of basketball.
Available in Monaco Blue and White

Gessa (Sports Bra) + Melisa (All over printed gym tights)
Women

If you are already on the treadmill to burn some holiday calories, FILA has the perfect sports bra having removeable padding to compliment your fitness regime. A bold halter neck detailing with bold print elastic waist band, the bra is your go-to, if you love minimalism with a hint of vibrancy.

Pair it up with FILA’s newly launched gym tights – Ronna and Melisa and athleisure overtop hoodie Lexir to own your winter workouts.

Available in Black and Winter Pear

Livana
Unisex
This streetwear fit features an oversized tee with a bold pixel graphic print with FILA typography embedded on the chest, adding a retro-digital vibe. It’s paired with loose-fit FILA joggers, offering a relaxed silhouette with functional pockets. Chunky sneakers complete the look, tying in a mix of comfort and urban flair. Perfect for casual hangouts or making a style statement on the streets.

Available in 2 colorways – Black, Green

Cavel co ord set
Women

Go to co-ord set for the women for a no hassle easy to access wear. This unicolor set of Hoodie + Joggers is a must have for everyday wear and creates the perfect airport look paired with a sporty sneaker. The look is highlighted with the FILA 7stripe tape on the sleeves and side of the joggers to give the retro streetwear vibe.