22, Mar 2024
PrabhuBhakti Launches Its First Physical Store in Ayodhya
New Delhi, 22 March ‘24 – In a significant stride towards blending spirituality with contemporary fashion, PrabhuBhakti, a pioneering D2C startup specializing in Devotion and Style, has proudly announced the opening of its first physical store. Located in the heart of Ayodhya, directly in front of the revered Ram Mandir, this strategic initiative marks a milestone for the brand in connecting with its audience through a tangible retail presence.
Since its establishment in 2021 by founders Samast Ahlawat and Raju Kumar, PrabhuBhakti has focused on catering to the modern devotee with its range of spirituals like t-shirts & caps and Silver Jewelry. This launch is not just a testament to the brand’s innovative approach but also reflects its commitment to making spiritual and fashion-forward products accessible to a wider audience.
The store’s launch has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm from customers, leading to a sell-out of the initial stock within just 24 hours. This response underscores the brand’s resonance with its target demographic and highlights the strategic advantage of its location. While renowned brands compete for space in Rampath, PrabhuBhakti has secured an enviable position in front of Ram Mandir, further establishing its foothold in the market and has visibility of 2.5 lakhs visitors every day.
“Opening our first store in such a premium location is a dream come true for us at PrabhuBhakti,” said Samast Ahlawat and Raju Kumar, co-founder. “The phenomenal response from our customers reinforces our belief in the unique value proposition we offer. This is just the beginning, and we are excited to continue this journey, further bridging the gap between spirituality and modern lifestyle.”
PrabhuBhakti’s foray into offline retail exemplifies its mission to connect with customers on a deeper level, providing them with a space where devotion meets style. The brand invites everyone to visit the store in Ayodhya and experience firsthand the unique products that celebrate spiritualism in the modern world.
PrabhuBhakti had received an undisclosed amount of seed funding in the past from Prajay Advisors, a move that underscores the confidence investors have in the brand’s growth trajectory and its innovative business model. This funding was poised to support the brand’s expansion plans and product diversification, ensuring PrabhuBhakti remains at the forefront of the Devotion and Style segment.
Founded in 2021 by Samast Ahlawat and Raju Kumar, PrabhuBhakti stands at the intersection of devotion and contemporary style. Offering a curated selection of Apparel, Silver Jewelry, and Puja Items, the brand caters to the evolving needs of young devotees who seek to integrate spirituality into their everyday lives. With its commitment to innovation and quality, PrabhuBhakti is redefining what it means to be a modern spiritual brand in India.
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- By Rabindra
14, Feb 2024
Radisson Hotel Group accelerates growth in India
Set to welcome guests in 2024, the hotel group has marked its foray into the South Asian luxury market by signing the first Radisson Collection in India. This strategic move reaffirms Radisson Hotel Group’s commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences to its guests. In addition to this milestone, the Group also announced the successful signing and opening of the first internationally branded hotel in the historic city of Ayodhya – Park Inn by Radisson Ayodhya.
Radisson Collection Hotel, Hyderabad Financial District (render)
Globally, Radisson Hotel Group achieved remarkable growth in 2023 setting a new record by adding over 30,000 keys to its international portfolio through openings and signings, marking a nearly 50% increase since the launch of its 2018 transformation plan. The Radisson Blu brand maintained its position as the largest upper upscale brand in Europe for the 12th consecutive year while the Radisson brand remains the fastest-growing brand in the industry.
In India, the Group continues to enjoy a first-mover advantage in the country’s key pilgrim destinations as it will soon introduce branded hotels in Vrindavan and Ujjain. Radisson Collection, the luxury lifestyle brand, had an exceptional year of signings in 2023, with the debut of two new hotels in Hyderabad (to be operational by 2026) and Srinagar (to be operational by 2024). Radisson continues to be the fastest-growing upscale brand in the portfolio in the country and has signed 10 new properties over the year, targeting strategic expansion in tier-II and tier-III cities of India including Raipur, Sonamarg, Sonipat, Vrindavan, Navi Mumbai, Dera Bassi and Kevadia, along with Jhansi, Ujjain, and Vizag.
Radisson Resorts, gaining relevance through the modern lifestyle Radisson Individuals Retreats, a brand extension of Radisson Individuals which promises to cater to the needs of the modern Indian traveler with experiential stays in key gateway cities and emerging destinations, including pivotal signings at locations such as Chail and Palchan, Manali in Himachal Pradesh and Mandrem, Goa. The Group also signed a Radisson Blu Resort in Chevella, Hyderabad.
Park Inn and Suites by Radisson focuses on delivering heartfelt hospitality to the guests and has grown by expanding its presence in the southern region of India with five signings over the year including properties at Guruvayur, Thrissur, Wayanad Ambalavayal and Munnar in Kerala and Yelahanka in Karnataka.
“Thanks to the trust of our owners and the loyalty of our guests, we continued to fuel our growth in 2023. We will remain agile and nimble to stay relevant to our business stakeholders. We are committed to deepening our presence in the vibrant and booming Indian market where we currently have over 165 hotels in operation and under development,” said Elie Younes, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Development Officer at Radisson Hotel Group.
“Our milestones in 2023 have carved a strong growth trajectory for us in 2024. Our strategic focus includes expanding our roots and fortifying our presence in untapped markets. Radisson Hotel Group’s countrywide hotel network takes the forefront backed by the steadfast commitment of our teams to provide an exceptional experience to our guests,” said K.B. Kachru, Chairman Emeritus & Principal Advisor, Radisson Hotel Group, South Asia.
Radisson Hotel Group continues to command a leading presence in the Indian market and is one of the country’s largest international hotel operators with over 165 hotels in operation and development. It continues to be the largest hotel operator in tier-1 markets like Delhi NCR and at the same time, more than 50% of its portfolio is in tier-2 and 3 markets where it has benefited by being the first mover. With hotels dotted across 70+ locations in India, there is a Radisson Hotel Group hotel in every 4 hours of drivable distance across the length and breadth of the country operating under brands, including Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Park Inn by Radisson, Park Plaza, Park Inn & Suites by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson and Radisson Individuals and its extension Radisson Individuals Retreats.
The full list of hotel signings over the year includes:
Radisson Collection Hotel, Hyderabad Financial District
Radisson Blu Resort, Hyderabad Chevella
Radisson Hotel Ujjain
Radisson Hotel Raipur
Radisson Hotel Sonamarg
Radisson Hotel Visakhapatnam MedTech Zone
Radisson Hotel Statue of Unity Kevadia
Radisson Hotel Dera Bassi
Radisson Hotel Jhansi
Radisson Hotel Sonipat
Radisson Hotel Vrindavan
Radisson Hotel Navi Mumbai
Radisson Resort Chail
Park Inn by Radisson Ayodhya
Park Inn and Suites by Radisson, West Nada, Guruvayur
Park Inn & Suites by Radisson Bengaluru Yelahanka
Park Inn & Suites by Radisson Thrissur East Fort
Park Inn & Suites by Radisson Wayanad Ambalavayal
Park Inn and Suites by Radisson Munnar Chinnakanal
Mandrem Beach Resort, a member of Radisson Individuals Retreats
Palchan Hotel & Spa, a member of Radisson Individuals Retreats
30, Jan 2024
Paytm announces exclusive 100% cashback offer for devotees traveling to Ayodhya through flight and bus
One97 Communications Limited (OCL) that owns the brand Paytm, India’s leading payments and financial services company and the pioneer of QR and mobile payments, has introduced a special offer on flight and bus tickets for pilgrims visiting Ayodhya to witness the grandeur of the Ram Temple in Uttar Pradesh.
The company is offering this exclusive offer for budget-friendly travellers with an opportunity to enjoy 100% cashback on their bus and flight bookings to Ayodhya. Utilizing the promo code ‘BUSAYODHYA’ for bus bookings and ‘FLYAYODHYA’ for flight bookings, every tenth user becomes eligible for this outstanding cashback offer. Bus travelers can receive cashback of up to ₹1,000, while those booking flight tickets stand a chance to win up to ₹5,000 in cashback.
Additionally, users can leverage the ‘Free Cancellation’ option providing flexibility in case of change in plans, and get hassle-free 100% refund in their source account without providing a reason.
To enhance the travel experience, Paytm offers a live bus tracking service, ensuring users can journey at ease while also sharing the real-time location of their booked bus with their close ones. The company also assures the best prices for both one-way and round-trip flight ticket bookings.
Paytm Spokesperson said, “Being at the forefront of mobile payments and QR technology, we are delighted to introduce this exclusive offer for devotees traveling to Ayodhya. Through our exclusive offers, including 100% cashback on bus and flight bookings, our goal is to help users with seamless travel to Ayodhya.”
24, Jan 2024
Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya showcases Tata Consulting Engineers Engineering Excellence
Bengaluru, 24th January 2024: The consecration of the Shri Ram Mandir at the Shree Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra complex in Ayodhya in the presence of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji and other dignitaries is a historic moment. For Tata Consulting Engineers (TCE), it is a matter of pride to have contributed to the construction of the magnificent temple, setting new benchmarks in engineering excellence. TCE was appointed as the design review, engineering and project management consultant for the entire project to ensure that the amalgamation of ancient faith and modern science would be a place of worship that also signifies India’s self-reliance and prowess in engineering.
The Shree Ram Mandir has been constructed in the traditional Nagara style of temple architecture and constructed using a traditional stone structure made up of sandstone with structural elements joined together by tongue and groove joints. The architectural splendor adorned with intricate carvings and breathtaking artwork has been engineered to last a millennium and withstand natural disasters like earthquakes and floods.
The construction of the Shree Ram Mandir saw TCE implementing innovative engineering solutions, including:
1. Utilising Advanced 3D Structural Analysis: The Mandir underwent a rigorous 3-D Finite Element Method (FEM) Static and Dynamic Structural analysis, akin to what is employed for nuclear plants. This analysis was conducted to ensure the long-term structural integrity of the Monument, considering various design loads, including seismic forces, over a staggering return period of 2,475 years.
2. Unprecedented Foundation Innovation: TCE came on board while the foundation design was already underway. During the initial pile work for the foundation, unforeseen issues emerged, necessitating a thorough review. TCE’s team of experts, in collaboration with a panel of distinguished engineers, conducted an extensive assessment of the design, revealing vulnerabilities, particularly in relation to seismic forces and limited lateral load capacity.
In response, TCE proposed an innovative solution – the use of roller-compacted concrete (RCC) as an engineered fill. This innovative concept, a pioneering endeavour worldwide, received approval from experts, substantiated by settlement analysis confirming its feasibility. A remarkable 130,042 cubic meters of roller-compact concrete was employed as an innovative Engineered Fill, reaching heights of 12 to 14 meters from the Raft’s bottom. This pioneering approach not only ensured the structural integrity of the temple’s foundation but also addressed the unique geological challenges presented by the site. Furthermore, the excavation required for the engineered fill provided an opportunity to unearth cultural debris discovered at depths of 18-20 meters, adding a significant archaeological dimension to the project.
3. Innovative Raft Foundation Solution: The construction of the raft involved the use of 9,432 cubic meters of concrete. A comprehensive thermal analysis was carried out to determine the concrete’s properties before and after pouring. Based on this analysis, the dimensions of the pour were determined as 9 meters by 9 meters with a thickness of 1.5 meters in square sections. To maintain the concrete temperature below 20 degrees Celsius, a chiller plant was installed to lower the water temperature by 7 to 10 degrees Celsius. Additionally, crushed ice was employed to reduce the concrete temperature further.
4. Reimagining the Plinth Foundation: Originally planned with sedimentary rock consisting of sand-sized particles, the Plinth Foundation faced issues with rocks developing cracks and breaking on-site. Tata Consulting Engineers (TCE) recommended the use of igneous rocks formed from magma/lava, as they are 100% original and primary rocks on Earth. A total of 17,000 Indian Granite blocks, boasting a compressive strength of 160 MPa and measuring 5 feet by 2.5 feet by 3 feet, were employed, featuring an essential interlocking arrangement, holes, and keys. Vacuum lifters were introduced for efficient, effective, and safe handling.
5. Employing 4D Modelling for Project Management: To ensure the project adhered to its timelines, TCE employed 4D Modelling. This advanced modelling technique, which integrates the dimension of time into traditional 3D models, offers a dynamic and comprehensive tool for effectively overseeing complex projects and offers a real-time status in relation to the planned schedule. This approach facilitated a better understanding and monitoring of project progress.
6. Innovative Solution for Kuber Tila: The natural tilla had slopes susceptible to instability and erosion, particularly on its western, southwestern, and southern sides. Geotechnical investigations revealed collapsible soil at the surface and soil fill of loose silt and sand in certain areas, further complicating the stability issue. To overcome these challenges, TCE explored various solutions, ultimately deciding on a mechanically stabilised buttressed soil mass encircling the tila area. This innovative approach eliminated the risk of slope failure. Among the options considered, TCE recommended the use of geo-cells filled with soil and gravel. This flexible system not only stabilised the slope but also provided an aesthetically pleasing solution, matching the architectural design requirements. The solution allowed water seepage without developing pore water pressure and facilitated vegetation growth for added stability and visual appeal.
7. Landscaping of the Project: TCE played a crucial role in the landscaping of the temple complex. The first phase of the project involved the development of approximately 40,000 square meters (nearly 10 acres) of hardscape, which included walkways and other solid surface areas designed for heavy foot traffic and aesthetic appeal. The softscape of the temple complex was also meticulously planned, covering a substantial area of 16.85 acres in the first phase. The landscape design beautifully accommodated the Jatayu sculpture and the existing hilltop Shiv temple both seamlessly integrated into the overall design.
8. Pilgrim Facilitation Centre and Allied Services: As the principal consultant for design review, engineering, and project management, TCE is instrumental in shaping these auxiliary structures, ensuring they meet the needs of the visitors while enhancing the overall functionality of the temple complex. Key elements in addition to the pilgrim facilitation centre are a dedicated Fire Post, Water Treatment Plants, medical facilities, RO systems, an exclusive VIP Lounge, Electrical Substation Buildings, STPs and Public conveniences, comprehensive security measures such as a Command control centre, Baggage scanning and Frisking areas, a Fire hydrant system, an intelligent Building management system, Public address system, and extensive CCTV coverage, all of which are crucial for the safety and security of the temple premises.
9. The Parkota: TCE is also the design review, engineering and project management consultant for the Parkota. This 732-meter-long square Parkota connects to the temple with an east/west length of 165 meters and a north/south length of 201 meters. It is estimated that 7.91 lakh cubic feet of Bansi Paharpur Red Sandstone will be utilised when the full Parkota is completed. The entire pathway is designed to be 14 feet wide and features six Mandirs along its periphery.
The main monument boasts impressive dimensions of 108 meters in length 75 meters in width, and reaches a towering height of 49 meters. It stands supported by a remarkable assembly of 392 pillars, each boasting a floor-to-floor height of 19 feet and 11 inches. The superstructure elements, including columns, pillars, walls, beams, slabs, mandaps, and more, are meticulously crafted from Bansi Paharpur sandstone and intricately interconnected with Copper Pins and Clamps to ensure structural integrity.
Within the monument’s grandeur, you will find a total of 42 doors, meticulously fashioned from Maharashtra teakwood. Among these, 14 doors on the ground floor will be adorned with gold plating, adding a touch of opulence to the temple’s design. To further enhance the construction, specialised 20 MPa bricks have been utilised in the lower plinth and for packing the Bansi Paharpur columns, reflecting a commitment to both durability and precision in this remarkable architectural endeavour.
Mr. Amit Sharma, MD & CEO of Tata Consulting Engineers, said: “TCE has been at the forefront of this project, contributing significantly to its design, planning, and successful execution. The construction of the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya is a remarkable achievement and a testament to our unwavering dedication, hard work, and commitment. I commend the entire engineering team in Ayodhya for their focus and determination that has led TCE to deliver innovative engineering solutions. It has been an honour for TCE to have contributed its extensive expertise in structural engineering, architectural design, and project management to create this masterpiece of engineering excellence.”
The temple is expected to attract devotees and tourists from all corners of the globe, promoting religious tourism and boosting the local economy.
Shri Champat Rai, General Secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, acknowledged TCE’s contribution and said, “Tata Consulting Engineers is a renowned engineering consulting firm known for its expertise in engineering, design, and project management. They played a crucial role in the planning and execution of the Ayodhya Temple project, contributing to its structural integrity and architectural excellence. Their commitment to quality and innovation has made a lasting impact on this historic endeavour.”
Beyond this monumental endeavour, the company is actively involved in spearheading numerous prestigious projects across India. TCE’s portfolio encompasses diverse initiatives, such as the development of high-speed rail networks, the transformation of over 15 smart cities, the enhancement of 50+ AMRUT cities, innovative water management initiatives, and invaluable contributions to India’s esteemed nuclear and space programs, to name just a few.
Tata Consulting Engineers continues to exemplify innovation, excellence, and a deep commitment to shaping a brighter future for the nation through its pioneering engineering solutions.
23, Jan 2024
Express gratitude to Shri Modi ji, for making our dream come true
Hyderabad, 23rd January 2024: Shri Vijay Surana, BJP State Joint Treasurer, MSME – National Governing Council Member; along with Telangana BJP president and Central Minister Shri Kishan Reddy, Hon’ble Governor Smt Tamilisai Soundararajan, and BJP National Leader Laxman Garu, participated in the rituals at the Ram Mandir in Pot Market, today, to commemorate the momentous and historic consecration of the Shri Rama Temple at Ayodhya. They engaged in Pooja and organized live telecast events using LED screens across multiple locations. Later Shri Vijay Surana extended a grand reception to the mass rally of Ram Bhakts, showering petals and distributes prasad.
Speaking on the occasion Shri Vijay Surana said, Pran pratishta of Shri Ram Lalla is the greatest and most memorable moment for all Indians in our lifetime. The entire nation is celebrating Diwali today, the ambiance across the nation is Rammai. The public across Telangana is witness this divine event through LED screens placed in lanes and by-lanes. Everyone is expressing their immense gratitude to Shri Modi ji, who through his concerted efforts made our dream come true of seeing our revered Ram Lalla back in his grand abode in the form of Shri Ram Mandir, after being in the tent for over 500 years. The Jewellers Association at Pot Market in Secunderabad, which has over 600 members is celebrating the consecration of the Shri Rama Temple at Pot Market and are taking out a huge procession of 6000 people from here. Similar programs are being held across the city, state, country and abroad to commemorate this momentous occasion.
Shri Vijay Surana was felicitated on the occasion, in recognition of his significant contribution to the Shri Rama Janma Bhoomi movement. Shri Gowtham Gandhi, RSS Senior karyakarta; Shri Anand Vyas, General Secretary, Hindu Sanghatan; Smt Konatam Deepika, Corporator; Shri Cheera satyanarayan, Corporator; Shri Sheru Jain, Division President of Jewellers; were among the prominent contributors to Shri Rama Janma Bhoomi movement; felicitated on the occasion.
Shri Vijay Surana has actively participated in various events organized by RSS, BJP, and various Hindu associations, as part of the Shri Rama Janma Bhoomi movement for years now. He sent soil to Ayodhya for the Shri Rama Mandir at Pot Market and made was instrumental in contributing substantial donations.
Shri Vijay Surana plans to visit Ram Lalla at Ayodhya Shri Rama Janma bhoomi, to seek blessings and commit himself to work for the people under the leadership of Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji.
20, Jan 2024
Ayodhya Embraces Pakka’s Vision with Artful Cleanliness Brand Campaign
20th January 2024, New Delhi: Pakka Limited, formerly known as Yash Pakka Limited, a manufacturer of compostable packaging solutions, has launched a unique, art-centric brand campaign in Ayodhya. Ahead of the much-anticipated Ram Mandir inauguration, the campaign aims to raise awareness about cleanliness in the holy city. Themed around ‘Cleanliness is Service’ and ‘Cleanliness is Abundance’, the campaign echoes the Indian Government’s “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan” initiative spearheading UP government’s Single-Use Plastic Free Ayodhya Campaign – RACE.
Pakka’s campaign is centered on adorning Ayodhya with vibrant illustrations depicting the ‘Swachhta hi Seva’ motif. These eye-catching visuals will strategically be placed on hoardings, painted police booths, and bio-toilets, reinforcing the message of responsible waste management and environmental stewardship.
In a significant move, Pakka has collaborated with the Ram Mandir Trust to further improve the campaign’s impact. Pakka’s flagship brand, CHUK, known for its compostable tableware, will exclusively distribute tableware before and after the Ayodhya Mandir inauguration event. This collaboration is a testament to Pakka’s dedication to promoting and spreading the message of sustainability.
Gautam Ghosh, Executive Director of Pakka Limited said, “The Ram Mandir consecration is undoubtedly one of the most momentous occasions in the history of the country. With this illustrative campaign, we aim to create awareness on the menace of single-use plastics that would benefit the community and city. The overarching goal of the campaign is not just solving end-to-end needs for disposables throughout the event but also cementing our position as the flag-bearers of sustainability originating from Ayodhya.”
16, Jan 2024
Uber flags off EV Autos in temple city Ayodhya
Bengaluru, January 16, 2024: Uber, India’s leading ride-hailing app, today flagged off its EV auto rickshaw service with Hon’ble Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in the temple town of Ayodhya under its popular category, Uber Auto. With the flag-off, Uber announced its commitment to offer convenient, affordable, and sustainable mobility solutions as the footfall to the holy city is expected to soar.
Following the launch of EV Autos, Uber will also start operations of UberGo – its most affordable car product; besides Uber Intercity – the fast-growing mobility product that will support all inter-city travel needs to Ayodhya from popular destinations within Uttar Pradesh. This comprehensive approach aims to connect the temple city to various destinations, contributing significantly to tourism, travel, and economic growth in Uttar Pradesh.
The expansion into Ayodhya aligns with Uber’s growth plans in India and reflects the company’s ‘India to Bharat’ strategy to increase its footprint and product offerings to more and more regional markets. Uber remains committed to bringing the magical multi-modal Uber experience to riders across the country.
Commenting on the launch, Prabhjeet Singh, President Uber India and South Asia said, “We are excited to expand our services to Ayodhya as it emerges on the travel map of millions. With this expansion, we are not only providing enhanced mobility options for tourists and pilgrims but also unlocking earning opportunities for many more in the region. We are committed to contributing to the city’s tourism, promoting a seamless travel experience and fostering sustainable economic growth.”
Ten years ago, the first Indian rider hailed an Uber on the streets of Bengaluru, beginning a journey that would quickly see the app become the country’s most preferred platforms for riders and drivers alike. Since then, Uber has transformed the mobility landscape in India. A safe, reliable, and affordable car, auto, moto, or bus ride via the app is now available in 125 cities across India.
Over the past couple of years, Uber has implemented several innovative technology-driven solutions to help riders and drivers feel safer while on a trip and continues to do so every day through a slew of measures such as an in-app SOS feature, along with location sharing.
Getting started with Uber is easy:
● Download the app – Get the free Uber app from the App Store or Google Play on your smartphone and open the app to create your account.
● Request a ride – Enter your destination and choose a ride option. You’ll always see the price upfront.
● Enjoy your ride – You’ll see your driver’s picture and vehicle details, and can track their arrival on the map.
30, Dec 2023
Air India Express expands operations in Ayodhya
30-December-2023, Bangalore: In addition to Delhi, Air India Express announced the commencement of new routes from Ayodhya to two major metros – Bengaluru and Kolkata, starting January 17. The airline will operate direct flights on these routes, significantly boosting connectivity to and from Ayodhya, its third station in Uttar Pradesh. Air India Express will operate its inaugural flights between Ayodhya and Delhi on December 30, alongside the inauguration of the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya Dham.
The first flight on the Bengaluru-Ayodhya route, will depart on January 17, 2024, at 08:05, reaching Ayodhya at 10:35. The return flight will leave Ayodhya at 15:40, arriving in Bengaluru at 18:10. On the Ayodhya-Kolkata route, the flight will take off from Ayodhya at 11:05, landing in Kolkata at 12:50. The Kolkata – Ayodhya flight will depart from Kolkata at 13:25, touching down in Ayodhya at 15:10.
Speaking about the launch of the new routes, Dr Ankur Garg, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India Express, said “Our dedication to expanding connectivity throughout India remains steadfast, driven by our expanding fleet. The introduction of non-stop services connecting Ayodhya to Delhi, Bengaluru and Kolkata underscores this commitment. As pivotal hubs in our network, Bengaluru and Kolkata will serve as gateways to Ayodhya, providing pilgrims from South India and Eastern India with convenient one-stop itineraries.”
The airline has released the schedule for tri-weekly non-stop flights between Ayodhya, Bengaluru, and Kolkata with bookings available through the airline’s award-winning mobile app and website airindiaexpress.com, as well as other major booking platforms.
Schedule effective January 17, 2024
| Schedule effective January 17, 2024 | ||||
| Departure | Arrival | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Frequency |
| Bengaluru | Ayodhya | 08:05 | 10:35 | Mon, Wed, Thu |
| Ayodhya | Bengaluru | 15:40 | 18:10 | Mon, Wed, Thu |
| Ayodhya | Kolkata | 11:05 | 12:50 | Mon, Wed, Thu |
| Kolkata | Ayodhya | 13:25 | 15:10 | Mon, Wed, Thu |
Ayodhya is the third airport in Uttar Pradesh in Air India Express network, following Varanasi and Lucknow. The airline connects UP to both domestic and international destinations. Air India Express made history as the pioneer airline to commence Varanasi-Sharjah flights, marking the first international connection for Varanasi. With a weekly schedule of 21 flights, the airline connects the sacred city to Bengaluru and Sharjah. Air India Express offers 60 weekly flights from Lucknow, connecting the capital city of Uttar Pradesh to Dubai and prominent Indian cities Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Pune.
Bengaluru is the largest domestic station on Air India Express network with 344 weekly flights, directly connecting the city to 22 destinations. Additionally, the airline provides direct connectivity from Kolkata to 6 destinations, operating a total of 85 weekly flights.
Recently, the airline also launched the Vista VIP, its business class-like product, in a bid to enhance customer experience. The offering includes wider seats and increased legroom, Gourmair hot meals, additional baggage allowance, and Xpress ahead priority boarding services. More recently, Air India Express also became the very first airline to operate a direct flight from Surat to Dubai on the day when the Surat International Airport had its new international terminal inaugurated.
28, Dec 2023
Journey to the Birthplace: ‘Shrimad Ramayan’ in Ayodhya
The ‘Shrimad Ramayan’ team recently embarked on a pilgrimage to Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, marking a pivotal moment in their creative journey. This visit provided an opportunity to connect deeply with the historical roots of their story. The team’s exploration included sacred sites such as Ram Janmabhoomi, Kanak Bhavan, and Hanuman Garhi, immersing them in the city’s spiritual ambience and historical significance.
Neeraj Vyas, Business Head at Sony Entertainment Television, highlighted the significance of the journey: “Our visit to Ayodhya underscores our commitment to bringing Lord Ram’s story to a new generation. We are dedicated to presenting his timeless values and teachings, emphasizing their relevance in today’s world.”
Siddharth Kumar Tewary, Founder of Swastik Productions and Creator of ‘Shrimad Ramayan,’ commented on the impact of their Ayodhya experience: “Our visit to Ayodhya brings a tangible depth to our series, infusing it with the historical resonance of this revered city, thereby enhancing the narrative of ‘Shrimad Ramayan’.”
Sujay Reu, portraying Maryada Purushottam Prabhu Shri Ram, shared his insights: “The pilgrimage to Ayodhya has been transformative. It has enhanced my understanding and portrayal of Lord Ram, reinforcing my commitment to depict his character with greater sincerity and depth.”
Prachi Bansal, who plays Mata Sita, reflected on her journey: “Experiencing Ayodhya firsthand was divine. It brought me closer to understanding Mata Sita’s strength and grace.”
Basant Bhatt, as Lakshman, expressed his perspective: “Ayodhya’s vibrancy gave me a fresh view of Lakshman’s devotion and loyalty. This experience has been a guiding light for my role.”
Nirbhay Wadhwa, portraying Lord Hanuman: “The spiritual energy of Ayodhya was invigorating. It made me realize the enormity of Hanuman’s unwavering faith and dedication.”
‘Shrimad Ramayan’ is set to premiere on January 1, 2024, at 9 PM on Sony Entertainment Television, promising a rendition that genuinely respects the epic’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
