2, Nov 2026
GHOSTFACE GETS FIZZY: FANTA & SNAPCHAT THROW HALLOWEEN’S SPOOKIEST PARTY
MUMBAI, India, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Tapping into the Halloween buzz with the youth of India, Fanta joined forces with Snapchat to bring its legendary global Halloween campaign – The Haunted Universe – to India, delivering a mix of augmented reality experiences, pop horror and IRL experiences.
The thrills peaked when Fanta and Snapchat brought the Haunted Universe into the real world with an exclusive Halloween bash at Snap’s India HQ in Mumbai. Dressed in fun costumes, top Snapchat creators and pop-culture voices took over the venue for an unforgettable night of eerie interactive games, themed treats, and delicious ice-cold Fanta. Armed with an exclusive first look at the AR lenses and immersive setups, creators flooded social feeds with real-time thrills, sealing Fanta and Snapchat’s place at the absolute center of India’s modern Halloween scene.
Fanta rolled out limited-edition Ghostface cans, turning everyday packaging into an interactive horror portal. By scanning the can using the custom Fanta Halloween AR Lens on Snapchat, fans are instantly transported into the Haunted Universe, a gamified, digital dimension right inside phone cameras. This seamless phygital integration lets users dodge spooky surprises, show off sinister transformations, capture wild Snaps, and fire them straight into group chats to keep their Snap streaks burning.
Sumeli Chatterjee, Category Head – Sparkling Flavours, Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia, said, “Halloween has become one of Fanta’s biggest brand moments globally, and it fits naturally with Fanta’s bold, fun personality. With the Haunted Universe, we wanted to bring that to India in a way that reflects how young people here celebrate. The Ghostface Fanta cans are an invitation to play, and our partnership with Snap extends that experience to the platform where Gen Z creates content, connects with friends and keeps their streaks going. From the pack to the lens to the party, we want Fanta to be a part of how Genz celebrates Halloween in India.”
The Power of the Snap Generation
By embedding the Haunted Universe directly into the Snapchat Camera, Fanta meets Gen Z where they naturally play, express themselves, and create every single day.
Amit Ojha, Head Agency Business, Snapchat – India, “Snapchat is the digital home for Gen Z and Halloween has evolved into one of the most expressive, creative moments on our platform, where friends connect to show off costumes, swap eerie Snaps, and play with augmented reality. Partnering with Fanta to bring the Haunted Universe and Ghostface to life turns that shared energy up a notch. By bridging the physical can with our AR Camera, we’re giving millions of young Indians thrilling new way to play, celebrate, and create memories with the friends who matter most. And the Halloween bash was a cherry on top.”
Watch the event highlights on Instagram
About Coca-Cola:
Coca-Cola in India is one of the country’s leading beverage companies, offering a range of high-quality and refreshing beverage options to consumers. The company, in line with its vision of ‘Beverages For Life’ offers a wide portfolio of products which includes hydration, sports, sparkling, coffee, tea, nutrition, juice and dairy based products. In India its beverage range includes Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, Thums Up, Thums Up XForce, Charged, Fanta, Limca, Sprite, Sprite Zero, Kinley Soda, Rimzim, Maaza, Minute Maid range of juices and Honest Tea. The Company also offers hydration beverages including Limca GlucoCharge, Smartwater, Kinley, Kinley Copper, Dasani and Bonaqua packaged drinking water. Premium products constitute Schweppes’ range and Smartwater. In addition, it offers a Costa Coffee range of tea and coffee. The Company is constantly transforming its portfolio, from reducing sugar in its drinks to bringing innovative new products to market.
The Company along with its owned bottling operations and franchise bottling partners has a strong network of over six million retail outlets through which it refreshes millions of consumers across the country. It seeks to positively impact people’s lives, communities, and the planet through water and packaging initiatives, sustainable agriculture and emission reductions across its value chain.
Globally together with its bottling partners, The Coca-Cola Company employs more than 700,000 people, helping to bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.cocacolacompany.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
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2, Nov 2026
Vodia to Attend CVx EXPO26
BOSTON: Nov 02 – Vodia Networks, Inc., a provider of unified cloud communications solutions to enterprises, contact centers, and managed service providers (MSPs), is pleased to announce the company will exhibit at CVx EXPO26, November 17–18, in Glendale, AZ. The event will take place at the Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel & Conference Center. Vodia will be at Booth 2009.
CVx EXPO is a key tradeshow for the channel, with participation by thousands of tech advisors, TSDs, MSPs, MSSPs, VARs, IT consultants, and AI, cloud, and security services providers. Vodia is a Bronze sponsor of the event.
“We’re thrilled to host a booth at CVx EXPO26,” said Eric Altman, Vodia Sales Engineer. “We recently released V70.4 of our best-in-class cloud PBX, which gives MSPs and IT departments a new guided setup experience, context-aware AI assistance in the Admin Portal, a refreshed User Web Portal, a new directory panel with quick links and notes, and backend enhancements across provisioning, troubleshooting, call handling, device support, registration management, and robust platform reliability.”
“The Vodia story just gets better and better, and we’re thrilled to have an opportunity to tell it at CVx EXPO,” said David Porter, VP of Communications, Vodia. “We continue to build a platform that truly supports MSPs, a platform that includes our new Partner Program and our new Partner Portal. We’ve also made it easier for MSPs to white-label Vodia, so they can build their own brands. We’re going to shout it from the rooftops at CVx EXPO26!”
Attendees with customer projects in mind or about adding business communications should meet with the Vodia team at CVx EXPO26, booth 2009. Attendees with questions about the Vodia PBX those wishing to make an appointment to visit the Vodia booth should reach out to David Porter, dp@vodia.com.
To meet with the team, please stop by Booth 2009 at CVx EXPO26. If you have questions or need a guest pass, or you’d like to make an appointment to meet with our team, please reach out to David Porter, dp@vodia.com.
2, Nov 2026
Shriram Life’s New Campaign Brings the Feeling of Trust to Life
The film, ‘A Promise That Stands When It Matters Most’, draws on a real family’s experience to show how the value of life insurance is realised when a claim is settled.
HYDERABAD, India, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Shriram Life Insurance has launched a new campaign titled ‘A Promise That Stands When It Matters Most’. Created by its creative agency MoMantra, the film is based on a real story and follows a family through a difficult period, showing how the company stood by them when they needed it most.
Life insurance is usually sold on what it promises. But its true value is felt when a claim is made. This campaign looks at the day that promise is tested. The film allows a family’s experience to tell the story — how the claim was handled and how simply the process unfolded. The idea behind it is simple: trust in insurance is built not just on what a policy promises, but on how efficiently and fairly a claim is settled when a family needs it most.
The film shows how the Smart Suraksha Card helps customers access their policy details with ease, making it simpler and more convenient when it matters most.
The company’s claims record supports the story. Shriram Life Insurance reported a combined (individual and group) claim settlement ratio of 99.12% in FY 2025-26. Around 94% of eligible, non-investigative claims are settled within 48 hours.
“People buy a policy hoping they will never need it. When they do, the only thing that matters is how quickly and fairly the claim is handled. We wanted this film to be about that moment, with a real family and a real outcome. Trust in insurance is built when the company shows up, and we would like our claim record to speak for us,” said Casparus J.H. Kromhout, MD and CEO, Shriram Life Insurance.
The link to the video ad – A Promise That Stands When It Matters Most:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RwiJabyv2Zc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/De-_9TEkhX2/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1MSdhF7EBV/
WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb7xeCWE50UhFlWYkj1q/805
Pinterest: https://in.pinterest.com/pin/1125618500656146145/
Threads: https://www.threads.com/share/HQgEnKPg7/
About Shriram Life Insurance Company
Shriram Life Insurance is committed to serving every Indian household with protection solutions that matter. With a network of 802 branches across the country, the company provides affordable, reliable, and user-friendly insurance —term plans, endowment, ULIPs, and annuities—helping families secure their tomorrow, today. Over 15.3 lakh in-force policyholders trust us with their financial safety. As of June 2026, our Assets Under Management has grown to ₹16,124 crore. Our easy-to-use apps make purchasing, premium payments, and claim settlements simple and convenient for everyone.
About Shriram Group
Shriram Group is one of India’s leading financial conglomerates, with a strong presence in retail financing, asset reconstruction, wealth management, life insurance, general insurance, chit funds, stock broking, financial product distribution, and asset management services. The Group’s focus is on serving underserved communities, driven by its financial inclusion agenda to bring finance to low-income families and small businesses. Shriram Group serves over 3 crore customers, has a marketing force of more than 1.85 lakh, employs over 1.16 lakh people, and operates through more than 4,800 branches. It manages an AUM of ₹3.97 lakh crore as of June 2026.
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2, Nov 2026
EPFO Marks 74 Years: Rs 32 Lakh Crore Corpus, Digital Reforms Strengthen Social Security Network
New Delhi, Nov 2: The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has built a strong reputation as one of India’s most trusted social security institutions over the past 74 years, Union Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said on Sunday.
Pic Credit: x.com/PIB_India
Addressing the organisation’s 74th Foundation Day celebrations in New Delhi, Mandaviya highlighted its contribution to workers’ financial security, noting that EPFO manages a retirement corpus of nearly ₹32 lakh crore, accumulated through contributions from more than eight crore members.
He urged officials to ensure that technological progress goes hand in hand with compassionate and efficient service, stressing that workers must receive timely assistance and their grievances should be handled with empathy and dignity.
Mandaviya Calls for Innovation Ahead of EPFO’s 75th Year
The Union Minister called for greater innovation and further reforms as the organisation approaches its 75th year. He emphasised that improving service delivery should remain a priority, with technology serving the needs of members rather than becoming a barrier.
Labour Secretary Chandra Bhushan Kumar also stressed the importance of expanding social security coverage to workers in the unorganised sector. He called for continuous improvements in public services through digital transformation.
Technology Upgrade Speeds Up PF Claim Settlement
EPFO highlighted the impact of its technology upgrade, CITES 2.01, which has significantly reduced the time required to process claims.
According to the organisation, the average claim settlement time came down to 2.57 days in October 2026.
In another digital initiative, members will be able to access their provident fund balances, transaction records and passbook details through EPFO’s verified WhatsApp service, making essential account information more accessible.
Inactive PF Accounts Up to ₹1,000 to Be Settled Automatically
A major relief measure announced by EPFO involves the automatic settlement of eligible inoperative accounts carrying balances of up to ₹1,000.
The process will apply to Aadhaar-verified accounts after the required identity and bank verification is completed. Around one lakh accounts, involving an estimated ₹5 crore, are expected to benefit from the initiative.
The move is aimed at helping eligible members receive small, unclaimed provident fund balances without having to go through a lengthy settlement process.
EPFO Serves 8 Crore Members and 85 Lakh Pensioners
Central Provident Fund Commissioner Ramesh Krishnamurthi said EPFO currently serves around eight crore contributing members and 85 lakh pensioners.
With a retirement fund corpus of nearly ₹32 lakh crore, the organisation remains a key pillar of India’s formal-sector social security framework.
Focus on Trust, Transparency and Better Services
The 74th Foundation Day celebration highlighted EPFO’s efforts to modernise its operations while strengthening its commitment to workers and pensioners.
As it moves towards completing 75 years, the organisation faces the task of widening social security coverage, improving digital access and ensuring that members receive reliable and timely services.
The message from the celebrations was clear: EPFO’s future growth must be built not only on technology and financial strength, but also on trust, transparency and a worker-first approach.
2, Nov 2026
India’s First Indigenous Bullet Train Takes Shape in Bengaluru, Set for 280 Kmph Test Speed
Bengaluru, Nov 2: India’s push towards self-reliance in high-speed rail technology has reached a major milestone, with the country’s first indigenously manufactured bullet train taking shape at the Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) facility in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Representational Image
The train is being developed for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) corridor and has been designed to meet Indian operating conditions, with particular emphasis on passenger comfort, safety, accessibility and energy efficiency, according to the Ministry of Railways.
The eight-coach train is designed for a maximum test speed of 280 kmph, while its planned operational speed is 249 kmph. Measuring around 202 metres, the train will consist of four motor cars and four trailer cars, with seating capacity for 557 passengers. It will also have two designated spaces for Divyangjan and Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM).
Eight-Coach Design with Two Seating Classes
The train will feature seven standard-class coaches with a 3×2 seating arrangement and one executive-class coach with 2×2 seating.
Driver cabins at both ends will be equipped with intelligent onboard control systems to support coordination with the operation control centre. The design also allows two eight-coach trainsets to be coupled, creating a 16-coach formation to accommodate future passenger demand.
Focus on Passenger Comfort and Convenience
A range of modern facilities is planned to improve the travel experience. These include ergonomically designed seats, LED lighting, overhead luggage racks, dedicated storage areas for larger baggage and charging points for electronic devices.
The coaches will also have modern bio-digester toilets, wide windows and sealed gangways connecting adjoining coaches.
Passengers will receive travel information through a multilingual system featuring LCD displays in English, Hindi and regional languages. Audio announcements, emergency communication facilities and a Wi-Fi-based infotainment system with preloaded entertainment content will also be provided.
Accessibility Features for Divyangjan and PRM Passengers
Accessibility has been incorporated into the train’s design. Planned facilities include level boarding, retractable footsteps, wheelchair-friendly entrances, dedicated seating and toilet facilities, and Braille-enabled signage.
Each coach will be fitted with two heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) units to maintain comfortable temperature and humidity levels.
Advanced Technology to Reduce Noise and Vibration
The train’s design incorporates several features intended to improve stability and passenger comfort during high-speed travel. Sound insulation, noise-dampening coatings, bogie covers and aerodynamic fairings will help reduce noise and vibration.
It will operate on a 25 kV, 50 Hz single-phase AC traction system and use regenerative braking technology. This system will recover energy during braking and feed it back into the electrical network, helping improve overall energy efficiency.
Aerodynamic Design for High-Speed Operations
The train’s aerodynamic profile has been developed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. The design aims to reduce air resistance, turbulence and pressure fluctuations, particularly when the train passes through tunnels.
Specially developed nose and body profiles, roof panels and airflow deflectors are expected to improve stability and enhance passenger comfort at higher speeds.
A Major Step Towards Indigenous High-Speed Rail Technology
The development of the train at BEML’s Bengaluru facility marks an important step in India’s efforts to build domestic expertise in advanced railway manufacturing.
Designed around the requirements of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed corridor, the project combines modern engineering, passenger-focused amenities and energy-efficient technology.
With a planned operational speed of 249 kmph and a test speed of up to 280 kmph, the indigenous train represents a significant milestone in the country’s ambition to strengthen its high-speed rail capabilities.
2, Nov 2026
Cyclone Arnab: Central Team to Visit Odisha, Assess Damage in Three Districts
Bhubaneswar, Nov 2 (UDN): A central government team is scheduled to visit Odisha on Monday to assess the damage caused by Cyclone Arnab in Ganjam, Gajapati and Kandhamal districts. The assessment is expected to play a key role in determining the financial assistance the state may receive from the Centre.
The team’s findings will be considered alongside the preliminary damage report prepared by the Odisha Government. Both reports will be submitted to the Centre for examination before a decision is taken on the assistance package.
Central Team Led by Union Home Ministry Official
The assessment team will be headed by Ravi Shankar, Joint Secretary in the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
Other members include Man Singh, Director of the Directorate of Rice Development, Patna; Rahul Chaurasia, Deputy Director in the Union Finance Ministry’s Department of Expenditure; and Dilip Kumar Jena, Director of the Central Water Commission, Bhubaneswar.
The team also includes Karan Sarin, Deputy Director of the Central Electricity Authority; Sunil Kumar, Superintending Engineer in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Bhubaneswar; Ajay Kumar Sahu, Under Secretary in the Ministry of Rural Development; and C. Sai Krishna, a scientist at the National Remote Sensing Centre of ISRO, Hyderabad.
The officials are expected to examine the extent of damage across the affected districts and review the state’s assessment before submitting their findings.
Centre to Consider State’s Damage Report
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said the Centre would take into account both the state’s preliminary report and the central team’s findings before deciding on financial assistance.
He added that he had discussed the cyclone-related damage with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The final assistance package would be considered after the assessment process is completed.
Majhi also indicated that the state could utilise funds from the supplementary budget, if necessary, to address the situation.
The Chief Minister said central assistance would be determined on the basis of the final assessment after the visiting team examined the damage and discussed the state government’s report.
Odisha Keeps Watch on Cyclone Murasu
While relief and restoration work continues in areas affected by Cyclone Arnab, the state government is also monitoring the possible impact of Cyclone Murasu.
Majhi visited the office of the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) on Sunday to review the state’s preparedness and response arrangements.
Officials and rescue personnel already deployed in vulnerable and affected areas will continue their duties, while 50 additional officers have been assigned to strengthen the ongoing operations.
Relief and Restoration Remain Government Priorities
The Chief Minister said the immediate priority was to ensure timely assistance to people affected by Cyclone Arnab and restore damaged infrastructure.
The administration is continuing relief operations and restoration work to help affected communities return to normal life. At the same time, preparedness measures are being maintained in view of the possible threat posed by Cyclone Murasu.
The central team’s visit is expected to provide a clearer picture of the damage in the three districts and help the Centre determine the financial support required by Odisha.
2, Nov 2026
Xinhua Silk Road: 2026 Nanchang Aviation Industry Expo opens on Oct. 31
BEIJING, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 2026 Nanchang Aviation Industry Expo kicked off in Nanchang City, capital of east China’s Jiangxi Province on October 31, 2026.
It is learned that the expo features dedicated exhibition areas for three major sectors, including aviation manufacturing, commercial spaceflight and the low-altitude economy. The expo covers a total exhibition area of 30,000 square meters and has attracted more than 300 exhibitors.
Original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/352767.html
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2, Nov 2026
Cyclone Murasu May Intensify into Severe Storm; Heavy to Extremely Heavy Rain Likely in Southern Odisha
Bhubaneswar, Nov 2 (UDN): Odisha is bracing for intense rainfall as Cyclone Murasu is forecast to strengthen into a Severe Cyclonic Storm on Monday before making landfall along the southern Andhra Pradesh coast. Although the system is unlikely to bring destructive cyclonic winds to Odisha, its outer rain bands could trigger heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across several southern districts, raising fears of flooding and landslides.
Representational Image
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone is likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narasapur, between late Monday night and the early hours of Tuesday. At the time of landfall, the system may pack sustained wind speeds of 100–110 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 120 kmph. It is expected to weaken into a cyclonic storm after crossing the coast.
The storm’s outer circulation is likely to pass close to Malkangiri and Koraput, potentially intensifying rainfall activity across southern Odisha.
Orange Alert for Five Districts
The IMD has issued an Orange Warning for five districts — Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri — warning of very heavy rainfall during the forecast period.
On Monday, heavy rainfall is expected in Ganjam and Gajapati, while Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Puri and Khordha may also experience significant precipitation.
The situation could worsen on Tuesday and Wednesday, when very heavy rainfall is forecast in the five southern districts covered by the Orange Warning.
Wind speeds of 50–60 kmph, with gusts reaching 70 kmph, may prevail over parts of the region during these two days.
Flooding and Landslides Raise Concern
Continuous rainfall could cause localised flooding, waterlogging and disruption to normal life in low-lying areas. Hilly and vulnerable locations may face an increased risk of landslides, particularly where the soil is already saturated.
The rainfall warning has raised concerns as several parts of Odisha are already dealing with flood-related difficulties.
US Weather Agency Projects Stronger Winds
Meanwhile, the US-based Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) has projected that the cyclone could reach wind speeds of around 130 kmph at landfall, with gusts touching 148 kmph.
Citing these projections, senior meteorologist Professor Surendranath Pashupalak said the system could cross the coast between 2 am and 5:30 am on Tuesday. Wind speeds over the interior parts of Andhra Pradesh may subsequently decline to around 83 kmph.
He cautioned that the extension of the cyclone’s outer rain bands towards Odisha could significantly increase rainfall across the southern districts.
Ganjam and Gajapati Likely to Receive Intense Showers
Several areas of Ganjam district, including Gopalpur, Chhatrapur, Berhampur and Chikiti, are likely to experience heavy rainfall.
The hilly pockets of Gajapati district may also receive intense showers, increasing the possibility of landslides in vulnerable locations.
However, Professor Pashupalak indicated that the chances of damaging cyclonic winds directly affecting Odisha remain relatively low. Strong wind gusts along the southern coastal belt and rough sea conditions cannot be ruled out.
Residents Advised to Remain Alert
With Cyclone Murasu approaching the Andhra Pradesh coast, authorities and residents in southern Odisha are being urged to remain vigilant.
People living in low-lying areas, hilly regions and landslide-prone locations should closely follow official weather bulletins and take necessary precautions. Fishermen and coastal communities should also remain attentive to warnings regarding strong winds and rough sea conditions.
While Odisha may escape the cyclone’s direct landfall impact, the expected rainfall could pose a serious challenge for the state’s southern districts over the next few days.
2, Nov 2026
Ramayana Faces the Box-Office Test: Rs 4,000-Crore Mega Project Yet to Generate Expected Audience Frenzy
New Delhi, Nov 2: With just four days remaining before its theatrical release, Ramayana: Rise of Legend is generating considerable curiosity, but the excitement surrounding the ambitious project appears somewhat lower than expected for a film of its enormous scale and reported ₹4,000-crore combined budget.
Featuring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana, the much-anticipated mythological epic is scheduled to hit theatres on November 5. Despite its star-studded cast, grand visual appeal and a story deeply rooted in Indian culture, questions remain over whether the film can translate its massive expectations into an unprecedented box-office opening.
Advance Bookings Show Promising Signs
The film has made a promising start at the advance booking counters. According to trade figures reported on November 1, Ramayana had collected ₹22.67 crore in opening-day advance bookings across India, including blocked seats.
Around 5.04 lakh tickets had been sold across 12,719 shows in 1,408 cinemas spanning 412 cities. Excluding blocked seats, the opening-day advance collection stood at ₹18.85 crore.
Its advance bookings across two show dates had reportedly reached ₹33.15 crore, including blocked seats.
While these figures indicate considerable interest, the initial momentum remains below the advance booking performance of recent blockbusters such as Pushpa 2: The Rule and Dhurandhar 2.
For comparison, Pushpa 2 had recorded more than ₹30 crore in opening-day advance bookings four days before its release, while Dhurandhar 2 eventually registered opening-day advance sales of ₹38.77 crore.
Regional Response Remains Uneven
The response to Ramayana appears to vary across regions. Maharashtra has emerged as one of the leading markets, contributing ₹4.39 crore in opening-day advance gross, followed by Karnataka at ₹4.18 crore and Delhi-NCR at ₹3.46 crore.
Hyderabad has recorded ₹1.44 crore, with reported occupancy of 38 per cent across tracked shows.
Trade analyst Ramesh Bala believes the film’s current performance is broadly in line with expectations, although audience traction is stronger in northern markets than in parts of the South. He expects the presence of Yash and Sai Pallavi, regional dubbing and an intensified promotional campaign to help expand its reach.
Premium cinema formats are also attracting attention. IMAX, 4DX, Dolby Cinema and other specialised screenings have reportedly generated ₹4.74 crore from 360 shows. IMAX 3D alone accounts for ₹3.46 crore, indicating interest among audiences willing to pay higher ticket prices for a grand theatrical experience.
Casting and Music Become Talking Points
Despite the impressive scale, the film has not escaped public scrutiny. Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Lord Rama has become a subject of debate among sections of social media users, while the casting of Sai Pallavi and Yash has also attracted considerable discussion.
The music is another area where expectations have been particularly high. With Oscar-winning composers A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer associated with the project, audiences had anticipated a powerful musical experience. However, the promotional songs and background score have yet to create the widespread pre-release excitement many expected.
Some film enthusiasts have also drawn comparisons with Ranbir Kapoor’s Brahmastra, whose music and visual effects generated considerable anticipation before its release.
The experience of Adipurush, which faced criticism over its visual effects, dialogues and adaptation of the epic, has added another layer of scrutiny to the new project.
Early International Reactions Offer Hope
The film has received encouraging reactions from some viewers following its Los Angeles premiere on October 27 at the David Geffen Theatre, Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
The screening was attended by Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, Sai Pallavi, director Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra. Early reactions reportedly praised the performances, visual presentation and cinematic scale, with particular appreciation for the lead actors.
These initial responses could help strengthen audience confidence ahead of the Indian release.
A Massive Investment with Enormous Expectations
The reported ₹4,000-crore budget covers both parts of the ambitious project, including production and promotional expenses, rather than the first instalment alone.
Trade analyst and film producer Girish Johar believes the current advance booking figures could have been stronger for a film of this magnitude. However, he feels there is still sufficient time for audience interest to grow.
He also pointed out that advance bookings alone do not determine a film’s commercial success, as a substantial share of ticket sales often comes from audiences booking closer to showtimes or purchasing tickets directly at cinemas.
The festive period following Diwali could provide an additional boost, particularly as families get more opportunities to visit theatres.
The Real Challenge Lies Ahead
Unlike ordinary commercial releases, Ramayana carries an emotional and cultural significance that extends far beyond cinema. Its characters and storyline have been part of India’s collective imagination for generations.
That familiarity offers the filmmakers a unique advantage, but it also brings enormous responsibility. Audiences already have strong expectations about the portrayal of Lord Rama, Sita, Ravana and other iconic characters.
Ultimately, spectacular visuals, a celebrated cast and a massive production budget may attract initial curiosity, but compelling storytelling and emotional connect will determine the film’s lasting impact.
With the November 5 release approaching, all eyes are now on whether Ramayana: Rise of Legend can turn its promising advance bookings into a historic box-office opening and emerge as the cinematic event its makers have envisioned.
2, Nov 2026
EPFO Rolls Out WhatsApp Service to Check PF Balance, Passbook and Recent Transactions
New Delhi, November 2: In a major step towards making provident fund services more accessible, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced a verified WhatsApp-based service that will allow subscribers to check their PF balance, view passbooks and access their latest transactions directly from their mobile phones.
Representaional Image
Union Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya launched the new digital initiatives on Sunday, aimed at improving convenience and reducing the need for subscribers to visit EPFO offices for routine services.
Through the new WhatsApp facility, members will be able to access their provident fund balance, view their passbook, check recent transactions and receive personalised guidance regarding the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PMVBRY).
According to the Labour Ministry, the initiative will make essential EPF services available through a familiar mobile platform, ensuring easier access and a more convenient experience for subscribers.
Automatic Settlement of Small Inoperative PF Accounts
In another significant reform, EPFO has introduced automatic settlement of eligible inoperative provident fund accounts carrying balances of up to ₹1,000.
Under the new system, subscribers with Aadhaar-verified inoperative accounts will no longer need to submit individual claims to withdraw their eligible dues. Following the prescribed identity and bank account verification, the amount will be automatically transferred to the rightful beneficiaries.
The initiative is expected to benefit approximately one lakh accounts, involving a total amount of nearly ₹5 crore.
EPFO Focuses on Digital and Worker-Friendly Reforms
EPFO currently has more than 34 crore total members, including over 8 crore active subscribers, and manages a retirement fund corpus of approximately ₹32 lakh crore.
Addressing the organisation’s 74th Foundation Day celebrations, Minister Mansukh Mandaviya stressed the importance of making social security services more compassionate, accessible and responsive to workers’ needs.
He urged officials to introduce more worker-centric innovations ahead of EPFO’s 75th anniversary and called for continuous improvements in service delivery to keep pace with changing times.
Labour Secretary Chandra Bhushan Kumar also highlighted the need to extend social protection and labour reforms to workers in both organised and unorganised sectors. He emphasised that digital transformation and administrative reforms must focus on accessibility and ease of living for ordinary citizens.
With the introduction of WhatsApp-based PF services and automatic settlement of small inoperative accounts, EPFO is taking another step towards a simpler, faster and more subscriber-friendly digital service system.
