Category Archives: News

Devish Ahuja Cast as Gaurav in Shemaroo Umang’s Main Dil Tum Dhadkan

Shemaroo Umang’s Main Dil Tum Dhadkan continues to keep viewers engaged with its emotional highs, and the story takes an exciting turn with the entry of Devish Ahuja. Known for his remarkable performances in iconic mythological roles, Devish now takes on the role of Gaurav, Purvi’s fiancé. a character full of charm, ambition, and mystery. His arrival promises to add depth and intrigue, making him a compelling addition to the story.

Expressing his excitement about joining Main Dil Tum Dhadkan, Devish Ahuja shared, “I am absolutely thrilled to portray Gaurav. Before this, I have played several roles rooted in mythological stories, which are vastly different from my character now. Gaurav is a refreshing change for me, offering a completely new experience. That’s what made me say yes to this role—it’s an opportunity to explore uncharted territory as an actor.”

He Adds “I feel incredibly grateful to be a part of this new journey, which comes with a mix of excitement and nervousness. Gaurav is a character that truly resonates with the essence of the show, as it beautifully captures the balance between traditional principles and the embrace of modern changes. And I feel This duality in his personality adds a lot of depth, making him both relatable and intriguing.I’m confident that viewers will connect with him and enjoy the unique dynamic he adds to the show.

So now will Gaurav be the perfect match for Purvi, or will his strong feelings lead to unforeseen consequences?

Don’t miss out on the unfolding drama as Gaurav’s character adds depth and unpredictability to Main Dil Tum Dhadkan Monday to Saturday 8.30pm sharp.

Hyderabad to Host 29th European Union Film Festival with 24 Acclaimed Films in 29 Languages

Hyderabad, December 04th, 2024: After a remarkable success in New Delhi and the ongoing screenings in Kolkata, the 29th edition of the European Union Film Festival (EUFF) is set to bring the best of European cinema to Hyderabad. This annual celebration of European cinema is a vibrant tribute to the Indo-European partnership, highlighting a shared love for art and culture. The festival promises a captivating cinematic journey through 26 award-winning films in 31 languages, offering a window into European society, culture, and people. Organised by the Delegation of the European Union to India in collaboration with the embassies of EU Member States and Hyderabad Film Club, the Hyderabad edition will take place from December 6 to December 15 at Prasad Labs Preview Theatre (Road No.2, Banjara Hills).

The Hyderabad edition of EUFF will open with the acclaimed French comedy-drama Jim’s Story (Le Roman de Jim). Written and directed by the talented Jean-Marie Larrieu and Arnaud Larrieu, this cinematic gem made a splash at the 77th Cannes Film Festival with its World Premiere and is sure to captivate audiences in Hyderabad, a city with a passion for cinema. Adapted from Pierric Bailly’s novel of the same name, Jim’s Story is a poignant exploration of human relationships, fatherhood, and life’s complexities. This beautiful film promises to enchant viewers and set the tone for an unforgettable festival experience.

The festival will feature films from Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Ukraine. This thoughtfully curated selection of films includes some of the most talked-about European movies that have earned recognition at prestigious international film festivals. Highlights include La Chimera, Baan, Jim’s Story, Afire, What a Feeling, Animal, An Irish Goodbye, Restore Point, The Man Without Guilt, The Teacher Who Promised The Sea, and many more. This diverse selection promises an enriching cinematic experience, offering profound explorations of human emotions, perspectives, and narratives.

Inviting everyone to embark on a cinematic journey through Europe. Hervé Delphin, the Ambassador of the European Union to India, remarked, “Hyderabad, we’re back. We’re thrilled to return to the city that lives and breathes cinema, with its vibrant film industry. The festival will showcase top selection of award-winning European films from renowned international festivals, offering a unique #WindowtoEurope through the cinematic lens. Europe and India are bound by a shared passion for cinema and storytelling, and the EU Film Festival is a vibrant celebration of this unity. I invite you to EUFF 2024; feel free to walk into any screening, sit in the cinema dark room and embark on a luminous cultural journey of entertainment and reflection with a European touch.”

Veronica Flora and Valerio Caruso, curators for EUFF 2024, added, “This year’s curation delves into the turmoil of the human soul and the often unfathomable complexity of daily life and seeks vital pathways toward peace, brotherhood, and solidarity in an increasingly uncertain future. The 29th edition of EUFF India promises to take audiences on a cinematic journey, surprising them with new experiences by presenting a rich array of genres and languages. It explores the unexpected landscapes of the imagination, revealing the ghosts of the present, while celebrating humankind’s resilience and its relentless pursuit of love and collective fulfilment.”

The President of the Hyderabad Film Club Mr. K V Rao said, “We appreciate the Delegation of European Union to India for providing a cinematic window to Europe, showcasing the continent’s finest films and fostering cross-cultural understanding.”

The secretary of Hyderabad Film Club, Mr BSS Prakash Reddy further elaborated on the collaboration, “The Hyderabad Film Club has a long association with Delegation to the European Union in bringing the best of European cinema to Hyderabad. The club has conducted 10 European Union Film Festivals, so far, in Hyderabad.”

One of the most anticipated and loved film festivals, EUFF 2024 promises an eclectic mix of cinema, with each film offering a fresh perspective, an idea, and unique insights into people and cultures that resonate universally. Showcasing the crème de la crème of contemporary European cinema, the festival marks the India premiere of several European films, including, What A Feeling, Because I Love Bad Weather, Stairway To Heaven, Death is a Problem for the Living, Jim’s Story, Without Air, Black Velvet, The Last Ashes, Blood on the Crown, Baan, Horia and The Man Without Guilt.

Get ready for captivating storytelling, riveting performances, and stunning visuals that deliver a truly visceral experience.

Navjyoti Foundation Confers ‘Organic Campus’ Award to Vedatya

New Delhi, 4th December 2024: Vedatya, one of India’s leading higher educational institutes in Delhi NCR has been awarded the prestigious ‘Organic Campus’ Award by the Navjyoti Foundation in recognition of its proactive approach to embedding sustainability and organic practices across its campus. This accolade highlights Vedatya’s ongoing commitment to creating an environmentally responsible and sustainable educational environment.

The award was presented to Mr. Amit Kapur, Director of Vedatya Institute, during a grand felicitation ceremony on November 24, 2024, held in celebration of the Navjyoti Foundation’s 23rd Foundation Day. The event was graced by Mr. Raj Bhushan Choudhary, Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti, and Dr. Kiran Bedi, Founder of Navjyoti India Foundation, alongside a gathering of distinguished experts, thought leaders, and sustainability advocates.

Mr. Amit Kapur, Director of Vedatya Institute, stated, “This recognition is not just a reflection of our efforts at Vedatya but a reaffirmation of our core belief that sustainability must be at the heart of everything we do. By fostering organic practices and eco-conscious initiatives, we are helping shape the future of education and contributing towards a more sustainable and responsible society.”

The award highlights Vedatya’s continuous commitment to environmental sustainability, further strengthening the institute’s vision of building a greener future through education and action.

“Mohrey” Trailer Released: A Thrilling Tale of Blood Ties and Betrayal on Amazon MX Player

Mumbai, 04th December 2024: The countdown has finally begun! Amazon MX Player, Amazon’s free video streaming service, is gearing up to premiere Mohrey, a crime drama delving into the depths of betrayal and fractured brotherhood. The streaming service today unveiled the trailer of the series, offering a glimpse into the intertwined lives of heroes and anti-heroes battling with their inner demons. Created by Banijay Asia, Mohrey boasts a stellar cast featuring Jaaved Jaaferi, Neeraj Kabi, Aashim Gulati, Pulkit Makol, Gayatri Bharadwaj, and Pradnya Motghare, Mohrey is all set to release on Amazon MX Player from 6th December for free.

The trailer gives a glimpse into the lives of, Arjun and Michael, who find themselves on opposite sides of the law. Arjun, an undercover police officer planted as a mole in Bosco Salvador’s crime empire, faces off against Michael, Bosco’s informant within the police force. Bound by fate and their father’s mysterious past, they are thrust into a clash of loyalty, revenge, and survival. Set against the backdrop of Dariyawada, a fictional neighbourhood in old-town Bombay, the thrilling crime-series will set the pulses racing of audiences with an exciting ensemble lighting up the screens.

Amogh Dusad, Head of Content, Amazon MX Player, shared, “With Mohrey, we’re proud to present a story that is emotionally compelling yet thrilling. The series captures the complexities of relationships and the fine line between right and wrong, offering a deeply character-driven narrative centered on loyalty, vengeance, and power. At Amazon MX Player, we are committed to creating stories that push boundaries, and Mohrey exemplifies how impactful narratives can truly captivate and engage the audience.”

Speaking about his character Bosco Salvador, Jaaved Jaaferi stated, “Bosco is a character shaped by survival, ambition, and an unyielding drive to take charge of his destiny. Stepping into his shoes was a distinctive challenge because he is far from ordinary– he’s layered, vulnerable, and incredibly strategic. Mohrey delves into human emotions and conflicts. It’s a story about the scars we carry and the lengths we reach for redemption. I’m excited for viewers to unravel Bosco’s world and the chaos that defines it.”

At Banijay Asia, we aim to craft stories that resonate deeply on a human level, and Mohrey perfectly fits that vision. The series takes viewers into a world of raw emotions, intricate relationships, and high-stakes drama all set against the vibrant and intense backdrop of Mumbai. We’re thrilled to bring this tale to life with Amazon MX Player and are confident that the audience will be hooked from the very first episode,” said Rajesh Chadha, Chief Operating Officer of Scripted Division at Banijay Asia.

Mohrey will stream exclusively from 06th December on Amazon MX Player, available through its apps on mobile, Amazon shopping app, Prime Video, Fire TV, and Connected TVs.

Shree Cement conferred with CII Performance Excellence Awards 2024 for Renewable Energy Innovations

Shree Cement, one of India’s leading and fastest-growing cement companies, has been awarded the prestigious CII Performance Excellence Awards 2024 for its innovative solutions in renewable energy at its Solar, Wind and Hybrid Plants. The awards were presented during the valedictory function of the 23rd Edition of the Green Power Conference, CII’s flagship event on renewable energy, held in Chennai.

Shree Cement received accolades for three of its pioneering renewable energy installations: a 20 MWp Solar Plant in Beawar, Rajasthan; a 31.5 MW Wind Plant in Kushtagi, Karnataka; and a 10.5 MW Wind Plant in Jath, Maharashtra. These projects exemplify the company’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and innovative practices.

Commenting on the achievement, Neeraj Akhoury, Managing Director, Shree Cement said, “This recognition reflects our relentless efforts to integrate sustainability into every aspect of our operations. At Shree Cement, we believe that renewable energy is not just a responsibility but a crucial step towards building a better future. These awards reaffirm our commitment to innovation and our drive to contribute meaningfully to India’s renewable energy goals. We are proud of our team’s dedication and will continue to lead with initiatives that make a positive impact on the environment and the communities we serve.”

The awards were presented by distinguished dignitaries, including Beela Rajesh, IAS, Principal Secretary to the Government (Department of Energy, Tamil Nadu); Ramesh Kymal, Chairman, Renewable Energy Council (CII – Godrej GBC); K S Venkatagiri, Executive Director, CII – Godrej GBC; and Dr. P Jayakumar, Chairman of the CII Performance Excellence Awards.

Shree Cement demonstrates its commitment to sustainability with a power portfolio exceeding 1 GW, including 517 MW from green energy. In FY 2023-24, 55.9% of its electricity needs were met through green sources. Key initiatives include a 20 MWp solar plant in Beawar, Rajasthan and wind plants in Kushtagi, Karnataka (31.5 MWp) and Jath, Maharashtra (10.5 MWp), collectively reducing CO2 emissions by nearly 98,000 tons annually. These plants significantly power its Beawar, Ras, Kodla and Patas units with renewable energy, reaffirming Shree Cement’s leadership in green energy adoption.

Shree Cement has been at the forefront of implementing measures to reduce its environmental footprint. With around 51% of its electricity generation capacity comprising of green sources, the company has adopted cutting-edge technologies and practices to enhance energy efficiency. The company’s water positivity stood more than 7 times during FY 23-24, verified by an independent agency. This was a result of the water conservation and rain water harvesting initiatives implemented across its operational locations and community. A few water conservation measures include the installation of Air Cooled Condensers (ACC), which have reduced cooling water consumption by 90%, and utilizing municipal treated sewage water for industrial use and greenbelt development.

The company’s renewable energy installations, coupled with its industry-leading innovative approaches, underscore its commitment to sustainability while setting benchmarks in green energy adoption. As Shree Cement moves forward with its vision to expand production capacity to 80 million tonnes by 2028, it remains steadfast in its pursuit of a cleaner, greener future.

SpeakX Honored with Best Use of AI for Education & Livelihoods at Mint’s All About AI Awards

New Delhi, 3^rd December, 2024 – SpeakX, a pioneering platform revolutionizing English learning through Generative AI technology, has been recognized at the Mint All About AI | Tech4Good Awards, sponsored by Salesforce. The award, in the category of Best Use of AI for Education & Livelihoods, highlights SpeakX’s innovative efforts to bridge the language divide and empower individuals across India.

Arpit Mittal, Founder of SpeakX, shared his thoughts on the recognition, saying, “This award affirms the potential of technology to transform education, particularly for communities that have been left behind. With only 8% of Indians speaking English fluently, many are unable to access opportunities in education, employment, and personal growth. SpeakX is committed to addressing this challenge by offering a solution that is both affordable and effective.”

Notably, the platform has gained significant traction in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where half of its users are based. SpeakX leverages AI-powered tools to provide personalized English lessons, enabling individuals from diverse backgrounds, including middle-income households, to enhance their prospects.

SpeakX has also been in the news for its collaborations and milestones. Its recent partnership with Cloud9 Hospital is helping nurses improve their English communication skills, which is essential for delivering better patient care. Additionally, SpeakX was selected for the prestigious Google for Startups Accelerator program, gaining access to advanced AI technologies and resources to enhance its learning platform further.

The platform’s growth has been remarkable, with more than 10,000 users subscribing monthly at an affordable rate of ₹299. This has helped SpeakX achieve an Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) of $500,000. Supported by $10 million in funding from Elevation and IndiaQuotient, SpeakX continues to strengthen its position in the global language learning market.

The Mint All About AI | Tech4Good Awards, sponsored by Salesforce, honor organizations using AI to create meaningful social impact. The event brought together industry leaders, technologists, and AI experts to explore how AI can address some of society’s biggest challenges. Innovations recognized at the awards showcased how AI is creating real-world solutions in education, healthcare, and more.

Project Management Institute (PMI) Celebrates 50 Next Generation Project Leaders Shaping a Better World, South Asian honorees shine bright

December 3, 2024— Today, the Project Management Institute (PMI) celebrates 50 exceptional rising leaders who are transforming the world by leveraging their project management skills to tackle today’s most pressing challenges. As shown on the 2024 Future 50 list, these young leaders – all 35 and under – represent a diverse cohort of project professionals, including 6 from South Asia, who are reshaping the future across industries like healthcare, environmental science, technology, and social justice.

These standout professionals are building, creating, and leading transformative projects that not only solve complex problems, but also help pave the way for a more inclusive, sustainable future. As they demonstrate, effective project management and project professionals have the power to create meaningful change.

The recognition of these 50 leaders comes at a time when project management is more vital than ever. The world needs 2.5 million new project professionals each year by 2030 to fill the talent gap. As AI, climate change, and other macrotrends transform industries and create new opportunities for innovation, the demand for skilled project managers capable of driving this transformation has never been higher. Project management is ranked one of the top ten in-demand skills for 2024, according to a LinkedIn report.

“Many of the critical and complex challenges the world is facing will have to be addressed by a new generation of project professionals,” said Pierre Le Manh, President and Chief Executive Officer at PMI. “It is inspiring to see how they are channeling their passion, talent, and creativity to address climate change, technological disruption, inequality, and other pressing issues in our societies. They demonstrate the true power of project management to drive meaningful change, and we are proud to celebrate their contributions.”

Elaborating further on the Future 50’s significance, Mr. Amit Goyal, Managing Director, South Asia, said, “The PMI Future 50 exemplifies the transformative power of project management in shaping a better world. These outstanding young executives, who come from diverse backgrounds, are using their project management expertise to tackle the most important issues facing India and the rest of the globe. Their significant initiatives, which range from fostering inclusivity and increasing sustainability to spurring technological innovation, highlight the critical role that qualified project managers play in creating a more sustainable future for everybody. We are immensely proud to honor their accomplishments and the motivational work they are doing to bring about constructive change.”

Among the Future 50 honorees from India are Ananta Gopal Metange, spearheading a groundbreaking $10 million project for Collins Aerospace to localize Airbus Nacelle Cowl hardware. Ankita Bhatia, a senior program manager at Adobe, demonstrates exceptional business acumen. Kaushik Chandra L, recognized as a top performer, oversaw the complex execution of a rural drinking water project impacting over 200 villages in Karnataka. Swati Pundir, a trailblazer in AI, led a generative AI pilot project and Yazhinidevi Devarajan, founder of the award-winning Betawinds, empowers youth through soft skills training.

Deck 88 at The Astor Goa: A Reimagined Culinary Experience in Exquisite Dining

Tucked away in the scenic bylanes of Candolim, Deck 88 at The Astor Goa is set to make waves with its refreshed identity, offering a perfect blend of coastal-inspired cuisine and a refreshed ambiance designed to captivate food enthusiasts and travellers alike.

Known for its innovative menu, Deck 88 presents a vibrant fusion of local and global flavours. From zesty coastal curries to tantalizing seafood creations inspired by coastlines around the world, every dish is crafted to take diners on a sensory voyage. Guests can look forward to signature offerings like Beef Pepper fry With Curd Foam, Andhra Style Chicken Tartlet, Coorgi Style Pumpkin Stew, Goan Red Rice Risotto, all served with a side of charm and creativity.

The revamped interiors draw inspiration from the timeless elegance of a glasshouse, blending natural light with lush greenery and chic coastal elements. Whether you’re seated under the sparkling fairy lights or beside the verdant greenery, Deck 88 offers a tranquil escape from the bustling streets of Goa, making it an ideal venue for intimate dinners, group celebrations, or a casual evening out.

“With Deck 88, we wanted to create more than just a restaurant—we envisioned a sanctuary where guests can enjoy exceptional food in a stunning yet relaxed atmosphere. This rebranding captures the very essence of Goa’s coastal spirit, offering an unforgettable dining experience,” shares Vaibhav Gupta, General Manager, The Astor Goa.

Vedatya and Leeds Beckett University Sign MOU to open opportunities for International Business Management Pathways for students

3 December 2024 New Delhi: In a groundbreaking move to enhance international education opportunities, Vedatya, one of India’s renowned institutes (affiliated with Gurugram University) has partnered with Leeds Beckett University, UK. The partnership aims to enrich Vedatya’s BBA program with international exposure and collaborative opportunities.

This transformative collaboration provides Vedatya students with direct access to globally recognised programs, equipping them with the skills and credentials to excel in the international arena.

Through this Memorandum of Understanding, eligible Vedatya students can seamlessly enter specific courses at Leeds Beckett University, gaining exposure to advanced academic frameworks and global industry practices. The partnership not only enhances academic offerings but also creates avenues for students to engage with diverse cultures, global networks, and international markets.

Highlighting the potential of this initiative, Managing Promoter, Amit Kapur, at Vedatya, shared, ”This collaboration with Leeds Beckett University is a monumental step in fulfilling our vision of providing students with a truly global education. It paves the way for them to access international opportunities, build cross-cultural competencies, and prepare for leadership roles in an interconnected world economy. We are confident that this collaboration will open new avenues for our students and faculty, fostering innovation and global engagement.”

Students who meet the rigorous eligibility criteria, including proficiency in English (minimum IELTS 6.0 with no band below 5.5 or equivalent), will be guided through academic counselling to align their aspirations with courses best suited for their career goals. Beyond academics, students will benefit from induction programs, accommodation assistance, and the unparalleled support of a globally reputed institution.

On completing their courses, students will graduate with globally recognised certifications, positioning them as competitive professionals ready to take on the challenges of international industries. This partnership reaffirms Vedatya’s commitment to bridging local expertise with global platforms and Leeds Beckett University’s dedication to fostering impactful international collaborations.

With this five-year partnership, Vedatya Institute has once again demonstrated its leadership in creating transformative learning experiences, ensuring that its students are future-ready in a dynamic global market.