Independence Gastro Tourist Alert: Godrej Food Trends Report 2024 reveals India’s Top Food Destinations for 2024

Mumbai, 13th August 2024: As India celebrates its 78th Independence Day, the nation reflects on its rich culinary heritage and the remarkable evolution of its food culture since 1947. Indian culinary tourism is on the brink of exploding, driven by a desire for adventure on the plate. The age of the Indian gastro tourist is here and will stay well into the future.

From the traditional kitchens of yesteryears to the modern gastronomic hubs, India’s food culture has undergone a significant transformation. Over the decades, regional cuisines have evolved, incorporating diverse influences and ingredients, making Indian cuisine a vibrant tapestry of flavors.

In celebration of this evolution, the Godrej Food Trends Report 2024 crafted with insights from over 190 visionary thought leaders including celebrity chefs, influential bloggers, and dedicated nutritionists, has identified the top domestic food destinations that will captivate the Indian culinary traveler in the coming year. A panel of experts has highlighted regions that are set to become the most sought-after destinations for food enthusiasts in 2024:

Godrej Food Trends Report 2024 curated by Godrej Vikhroli Cucina mentions some of the Domestic food destinations that will see most interest in 2024:

Kashmir, A Culinary Gem: Always a fascinating destination for travelers, Kashmir is now attracting even more attention. The region’s legendary wazwan cuisine is renowned, but there’s a growing desire to explore its nuances more deeply. With 84.2% of experts recommending it, Kashmir tops our list of culinary destinations for 2024.

Goa’s Allure continues: Known for its vibrant food culture and a plethora of culinary experiences ranging from local to exotic, Goa continues to be a popular culinary destination. The opening of new establishments by respected names in the industry is expected to make Goa even more desirable in 2024, as predicted by 81.6% of experts.

Kolkata, A Foodie’s Paradise: Bengal’s love affair with food is well-known, and Bengali cuisine is celebrated for its unique flavors. Conversations around food often highlight that Bengali food tastes best in Bengal. This has made Kolkata the third most desirable place to visit for food in 2024, according to 78.6% of experts.

“India’s culinary evolution is a testament to the incredible diversity of our nation. As we celebrate our independence, we also celebrate the freedom to explore and embrace new culinary experiences, both traditional and contemporary. The destinations highlighted in this year’s report are not just places to visit, but stories waiting to be tasted, reflecting the deep connections between food, culture, and community.” says Rushina Munshaw Ghildiyal, Managing Director of A Perfect Bite Consulting and Editor of the annual Godrej Food Trends Report.

As India celebrates its independence, there’s a growing appreciation for the nation’s diverse food culture. The Godrej Food Trends Report 2024 serves as a valuable guide for Indian food enthusiasts, encouraging them to embark on a delicious exploration of their own country’s rich tapestry of flavors and traditions.

Young Fashionistas Shine at Pacific Mall NSP Pitampura’s First-Ever Kids Fashion Show

Delhi| Pacific Mall NSP Pitampura held a successful event of the Pacific Kids Fashion Show Season 1. The event was a remarkable showcase of creativity and talent, featuring young fashion enthusiasts aged five years and above.

The fashion show featured five distinct categories, allowing the little ones to express their personalities and creativity. Each category was designed to highlight different aspects of fashion, from traditional attire to contemporary styles, encouraging children to have fun and explore styles.

The event was a massive success, drawing many families and fashion lovers who cheered on the young models as they strutted down the runway. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and joy as parents and friends celebrated the participants’ achievements.

Abhishek Bansal, Executive Director of Pacific Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the event: “The Pacific Kids Fashion Show was a fantastic platform for our young talents to shine. We are proud to have provided an opportunity for children to showcase their creativity and confidence on such a grand stage. This event was a huge success, and we promise to organise more such events for the little ones. This event was our commitment to nurturing talent and providing memorable experiences for families at Pacific Mall NSP Pitampura.”

The Pacific Kids Fashion Show not only highlighted the fashion sense of the young participants but also emphasized the importance of socialisation and support for young talent. The event concluded with awards for outstanding performances, ensuring that every child left with a sense of accomplishment and pride.

Jaideep Mirchandani: DGCA Guidelines on Gender Equality Can Boost Women in Aviation

The Office of the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a circular in June 2024 advising all stakeholders in the aviation industry to increase the number of women in various positions by 25 per cent. This initiative is timely, considering the recent efforts by the regulatory body to promote women’s enrolment in various jobs, including pilots. In 2023, a total of 1,622 commercial pilot licenses were issued, of which 294 were issued to women (18pc of the total). At present, women pilots make up approximately 14 per cent of the total flight crew strength employed by various Indian scheduled and non-scheduled operators.

On Independence Day, various industry leaders are extending their commitment to support India’s initiatives to promote more gender-inclusive aviation ecosystems. They emphasise that increasing the representation of women in the aviation workforce requires more leadership and mentorship programmes. It is vital to address stereotypes and gender bias and promote a better work-life balance for women employees.

Jaideep Mirchandani, the group chairman of global aviation major Sky One, echoed this view, stating that encouraging gender equity in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields will inspire more women to explore opportunities in industries like aviation which have been traditionally male-dominated.

“Developing partnerships with educational institutions and training institutes will help bring more women into aviation. We also need supportive workplace policies and practices to promote gender equality in the sector, as suggested by the DGCA. This includes strict monitoring of gender ratios of various companies to identify gaps in diversity, ensuring equal representation of women while recruiting personnel for new positions and providing allowances and maternity leave as per prevailing rules,” says Mr Mirchandani.

To promote a suitable work environment for women, the DGCA directive also seeks the implementation of strategies to minimise bias. “The HR policies must also be devoid of gender pay gaps. There should not be any disparities in compensation plans either. Flexible work hours and job-sharing can improve the work-life balance and job satisfaction among women, which will help in retaining the existing female workforce. There should also be clear-cut policies to address any sort of harassment at workplaces,” adds Mr Mirchandani.

Mentorship and sponsorship programmes, he says, will empower women with the skills and knowledge to advance their careers. “Women in aviation bring unique perspectives and diverse skill sets to the table. Though the path to gender parity is a continuous one, with sustained efforts and favourable policy decisions, we can expect to see more women thriving in various roles in aviation in the coming years,” concludes Mr Mirchandani.

Actress Anveshi Jain Takes on Powerful Gangster Role in Dhruva Sarja’s ‘Martin

Mumbai, 13th August 2024: Actor and singer Anveshi Jain, currently basking in the success of her debut single “Banjaare,” directed by Shershaah director Vishnu Vardhan, is all set to star in the pan-India film “Martin” alongside Dhruva Sarja, directed by AP Arjun.

The actress is poised to captivate audiences with her portrayal of a gangster, performing high-octane action sequences. Discussing her character in “Martin,” Anveshi shared, “I loved the role. After doing the look test, I realized that I fit into the character of a gangster very well. I loved her attitude and approach towards people. She didn’t care about anyone but her gangster boyfriend. She would kill anybody if Martin gave her a hint to do so. She is always by his side, no matter what Martin does. She never doubts or questions his actions. Martin (played by Dhruva Sarja) and she share great on-screen chemistry. There is this charm and tension you feel when you see them together.”

Expressing her gratitude for being part of such a large-scale project, Anveshi stated, “I never imagined I would be part of such a major film set to release both pan-India and globally. As a small-town girl with a background in engineering and MBA, it feels like a dream come true to be featured on the big screen alongside such prominent stars. Coming from an OTT background, being cast in this film has truly made me appreciate the significance of this opportunity. I am proud of this film because of its deep emotional resonance and human connection. While it is predominantly an action film, it also offers a great deal of wholesomeness and emotional depth. Arjun sir has done a phenomenal job with the script.”

Revealing how she landed the role and her preparations for it, Anveshi added, “Due to global searches about me, the film’s team had been following my work on social media for a while. When they created a character for Martin’s girlfriend, who is a gangster, they instantly thought I would be a perfect fit for the role. That’s how they approached me, which led to my casting. I then underwent rigorous training for the fight scenes, but unfortunately, I sustained an injury that kept me off set for a few days. The producers were understanding and allowed me the time I needed to heal.”

Describing her experience on set, Anveshi said, “The team, the director, and the producer were all very accommodating and kind. The set was larger than life, and the shoot felt like having fun. Because of the heavy action and racing sequences, the adrenaline was so high that we often stayed on set even after our shots were done. Dhruva is a very kind and gentle co-actor. He is patient and always puts forth his suggestions so nicely that you feel comfortable.”

Prayatna Collaborates with Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham for Mental Health Awareness on International Youth Day

Kochi, August 12, 2024 – Prayatna Centre for Child Development, in collaboration with the Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kochi, held a mental health session titled “Coping with Emotions and Stress” to mark International Youth Day. The event focused on the crucial topics of emotional well-being and stress management for young adults. The session commenced with students from the Department of Visual Media and Communication as the initial phase.

Dr. Lisha P. Balan, a Clinical Psychologist from Prayatna, led the session, offering valuable insights and practical strategies to help participants better understand and manage their emotions and stress in everyday life. The event also provided an open forum for students to share their concerns, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of mental health issues.

Vanshik a luxury fashion brand launches “Vedic Odyssey” a collection inspired by Vedas of Indian Culture

India, 2024-

Vanshik, a luxury ethnic wear brand, unveils its latest collection, “Vedic Odyssey.” an ethereal journey through India’s rich heritage that transports an individual into a realm of divine elegance and timeless beauty. Inspired by the timeless wisdom lying implicit in the four Vedas, Vanshik has woven a collection that is as divine as it is earthly.

From the vibrant hues of Rigveda its “Forest Bloom” collection showcases colorful embroideries, intricate patterns, to the regal opulence of Yajurveda ,“Kashmiri Tilla” collection which reflects metallic embroideries that shine like the golden light of knowledge, “Chikankari Charm” is inspired by Samaveda which exude serenity as it is distilled into white thread hand embroidery. While embracing the magical aspects of Atharvaveda, “Glitzy Galaxy” collection is bold and captivating as the embroideries highlight shimmer like the stars.

“Vedic Odyssey” is a testament to the timeless wisdom of the Vedas, reimagined through the lens of fashion,” said Vikas Jaggi, founder at Vanshik. Each piece is a wearable work of art, crafted to transport the wearer and the beholder to a realm of beauty, spirituality, and self-discovery.

Start Strong: Casio’s Advanced Calculators Fuel Success for Engineering and Commerce Students

As the new academic year commences, Casio proudly reaffirms its commitment to supporting education by offering an advanced range of calculators, meticulously designed for the diverse needs of Engineering and commerce students. Their flagship models, Classwiz fx-991CW and MJ-12D for Engineering and commerce respectively, exemplify Casio’s dedication to providing essential tools that empower students on their higher education journeys.

These calculators are more than just devices; they are trusted companions in the pursuit of academic success, facilitating learning and fostering excellence. Casio remains a steadfast partner in education, continually offering innovative and quality products that support students’ academic endeavors.

Innovative Calculators for Engineering and Polytechnic Students

The Casio Classwiz fx-991CW calculator is one of the leading non-programmable scientific calculators designed to meet the rigorous demands of Engineering students. Renowned for its speed, quality and simplified user interface, this advanced model is specifically tailored for executing complex scientific calculations especially in Mathematics and Physics. It offers a comprehensive range of 540+ functions, from calculus, statistics to linear algebra among many more, ensuring that students tackle intricate problems with ease and accuracy.

Beyond its outstanding capabilities in Engineering applications, the Classwiz fx-991CW is also an essential resource for Polytechnic students. Its comprehensive feature set and user-friendly navigation are tailored made for students, aiding them in managing their coursework efficiently. With its dependable performance having fastest processor (in non-programmable Scientific Calculator category) by Casio and HD menu icon natural textbook display, Casio Classwiz fx-991CW is the preferred choice for aspiring engineers throughout their four-year journey.

Essential Tools for Commerce Students

Commerce students, particularly those entering Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) program, can rely on the simplistic and user-friendly design of Casio’s MJ-12D calculator. Known for its durability and precision, the MJ-12D is an invaluable tool for managing calculations and financial data. Whether it’s for Accounting, Finance, Statistics or General Commerce Studies, the MJ-12D offers the accuracy and dependability required to excel in the financial & commerce space. Its robust build with features like Key-rollover and Indian Comma Marker ensure that it withstands the rigors of daily academic use, making it a must-have for every commerce student.

Casio’s ongoing dedication to supporting education is reflected in the development of these advanced calculators. By providing reliable and innovative tools, Casio aims to facilitate a seamless learning experience for students across various academic disciplines, while also embodying its core philosophy of “Creativity and Contribution”.

Sancta Maria Students Excel at ISP MUN Summer Camp at UC Berkeley

Hyderabad, 13th August 2024: We are thrilled to announce that our students, Dhruthi and Mohineesh, have achieved outstanding success at the ISP MUN Summer Camp held at the prestigious University of California, Berkeley, USA. The camp, which brought together over 40 students from around the globe, provided an intense week of research, collaboration, and diplomacy, culminating in a gripping Crisis Simulation centred on aid to Ukraine.

Throughout the week, Dhruthi and Mohineesh engaged deeply with their peers, forming connections and honing their skills in diplomacy and international relations. The final open house event showcased their ability to navigate complex scenarios, including a simulated crisis involving a bacteria threatening the world’s oil supply. Their performance in these high-stakes simulations was nothing short of remarkable.

Both students were captivated by the vibrant UC Berkeley campus, which offered them a firsthand glimpse into university life in the USA. This enriching experience has ignited their passion for exploring further international opportunities in their academic journeys. Despite the short duration, they expressed a strong desire to extend their stay and delve deeper into the myriad possibilities the camp unveiled.

Mohineesh shared his thoughts on the experience: “It was such an honour to attend the Best Delegate Advanced Course at the University of California, Berkeley. The camp provided a memorable opportunity to engage with Model United Nations (MUN) alongside students from around the globe. Each day was filled with special workshops led by practitioners in diplomacy and international relations. We participated in United Nations committee meetings, discussed various topics, and wrote resolutions. These sessions challenged me to enhance my research, negotiation, and presentation skills. The final simulation, which involved formulating strategies to handle international crises, was both tough and exciting. This experience at UC Berkeley was incredibly valuable, and I am eager to share the knowledge I gained with our school community. It has also encouraged me to seek further involvement in MUN activities.”

Dhruthi added, “This camp was an eye-opener, and it strengthened my resolve to pursue a global academic path.”

Our Principal, Hema Sanjay, also expressed her pride in the students’ achievements: “We are immensely proud of Dhruthi and Mohineesh for their exceptional performance at the ISP MUN Summer Camp. Their dedication, hard work, and enthusiasm are truly commendable. This experience has not only enriched their understanding of international relations but also strengthened their leadership skills. We look forward to seeing how they will leverage this experience to inspire their peers and contribute to our school community.”

Running is for everybody and every “body”

Hyderabad, August 13, 2024… America’s greatest Running Legend, Steve Prefontaine, once said, “Running is for everyone.”

He is right. Running is for everybody also. Running is universal

To play badminton you need a court, a racket, shuttlecocks, and shoes. For cricket, you need wickets, a ball, a bat, gloves, pads, a helmet and a ground. For chess, players need at least a set of chess pieces and a chessboard. You may need a clock when you play a timed game.

When it comes to running, there is no set requirement. You can run anywhere, in any open area, on the road and a trail, you can anywhere. You can start it at any age, anywhere, anytime. Rich or poor, in a tracksuit or a saree, there is no restriction.

Human beings are physiologically built to run and it comes naturally to us. The only must and prerequisite to running is our attitude. Rain or shine, the weather doesn’t deter runners. Running is the simplest and most convenient fitness activity.

“The Hyderabad Runners Society aims to bring diversity to running by inviting talented and hardworking athletes from across the country. From the CEOs and Directors of various companies to drivers and workers, we’re all set to witness a diverse range of runners, and there is no hierarchy”, says Rajesh Vecha, the race director for the upcoming Hyderabad Marathon.

For many, running is a means to an end. Let’s take a look at some of the runners who will be participating in the upcoming Hyderabad Marathon on August 25th.

Babu, who not only runs meters but also kilometres, an ace runner from the Nilgiris, is all set to take up the half-marathon challenge here in Hyderabad. When asked what motivates him to run, Babu said, “ I started running with my cousin in 2018 and I enjoy it. I drive an auto for a living. From 10k, I have run up to 100k”. The stories of his runs range from his frequent encounters with bears, bison and porcupines to speed runs with the speedsters in the Wellington Ground. An auto driver by profession, 48-year-old Babu can run a half-marathon in under 90 minutes and has made it to the podium several times.

“Running makes me feel like I can do anything I set my heart to,” says Divya, a 23-year-old from Pollachi, whose only aim is to make her mum proud by winning a national medal. An athlete from a village, can run a 10k in 38 minutes and a half-marathon in 89 minutes.

Hyderabad has paved the way for many athletes to come and shine by providing an avenue to showcase their talents. By choosing to run, we set an example for runners of all body types, and runners from different strata of society, thereby making running equal for all. In both running and HRS, a step forward is a testament to progress and perseverance.

“The Hyderabad Runners Couch to 5K program was created to offer a structured plan for beginners and help many aspiring runners run their first 5K. Since its launch in 2015, the Hyderabad Runners KOUCH to 5K training program has helped over 5,000 beginners start their running journey and adopt an active lifestyle.” said, Abhijit, the President of Hyderabad Runners.